Joyfully learning, living, and sharing God's Word

This month, as we celebrate Independence Day, we can enjoy the freedoms we take for granted, including freedom of speech, religion, and assembly. With these particular rights, our forefathers seem to have said, “We may disagree with what you say or believe, but we defend your right to it.”

Unfortunately, that sounds outdated today. In the current climate, partisans are more likely to say, “We not only disagree with what you say, but saying it makes you evil.” Has the civility of our forefathers gone out the window?

So, what effect does this type of political discourse have on our country? For one, relatives, neighbors and friends have stopped communicating and getting together because they cannot tolerate differing opinions. You may know someone that no longer goes home for Christmas because they disagree on issues. It’s very sad, but what can we as Christians do about it?

If we look to the Bible, we remember Jesus’ command to love our neighbors as ourselves (Mark 12:31) and to do unto others as we would have them do to us (Matthew 7:12). Our “neighbors” and “others” most certainly include those who hold differing opinions on issues of the day.

So, when you run into someone you disagree with, try to listen to them carefully and respond thoughtfully. You can cite facts to support your argument in a calm manner, and remember you only want to attack the idea—not the person. This 4th of July, be a steward of civility.

Kim Toohey, 

Congregational Life Chair

Several people have asked me about the status of our Covenant of Shared Ministry with Hope Lutheran Church in Frankfort, in light of Pastor Jerri’s retirement. The answer has two parts.

We entered into this Covenant in July 2023 for a period of three years. Much of the agreement concerns a shared pastor and of course those elements are no longer in effect. The agreement calls for joint council meetings which were suspended several months ago by mutual agreement of both churches. The remaining provisions involve joint worship services and other types of joint activities and ministries and those portions remain in effect. For example, a joint service is planned with Hope on Christ the King Sunday, November 23. I’m not aware of any plans to cancel the existing Covenant.

The second part of the answer concerns whether or not the Covenant of Shared Ministry will be renewed. The real question here is whether or not we anticipate sharing a pastor with Hope after July 2026. The fact that the two churches have formed separate call committees implies (but does not require) that the Covenant will not be renewed. In the end this is a decision council has not yet made.

As you know, the Indiana-Kentucky Synod Assembly was held early in June in Indianapolis and Cindy Leverenz and I attended as delegates. Although there was very little drama, there was an abundance of the Holy Spirit evidenced by in three terrific keynote addresses by Bishop Tim, multiple study and worship opportunities, passionate discussion about several resolutions and very useful breakout sessions. A full report on the Assembly is available by calling the church office.

Finally, the new Synod Director of Evangelical Missions, Ms. Melissa Schroeder attended the June council meeting and invited Gethsemane to participate in the Synod’s Evangelical-Connect (a.k.a., E-Connect). This is a two year program, funded by a private grant (i.e. little cost), through which congregations identify their mission and develop supporting strategies. It comes at a perfect time for Gethsemane as we move into the next phase of our own ministry. Council will discuss this more in July, but it has the potential to involve a wide swath of our congregation. Stay tuned. Even better, ask questions! Brochures are available on the table in the narthex.

It’s a busy time here at Gethsemane. An exciting time. The Spirit is at work!

Blessings,

Dave Leverenz, President

david.leverenz@mail.com