During President Golike’s (C.A.R.) visit last winter, he indicated the need for 16 motorcycles to provide transportation for pastors to travel between villages. Gordon Olson from Lutheran Partners in Global Ministry states “…we can call that project a success…thanks to all of you for helping to make this happen.”
The EaND Synod’s Extra Mile initiative helped make this a reality!
God in Full View!
from Bishop Bill Rindy
It was mentioned during last spring’s synod assembly that the State of the Synod would be determined by how we lived into God’s future. Many within our synod have taken the challenge to go the “Extra Mile for Mission.” Last December you were made aware of the lower level of our financial support for our shared ministries. I shared with you how painful it was to inform those ministries to prepare for a short-fall from our support.
This past week we were able to close out fiscal year 2010. Instead of the anticipated $160,000 shortfall, through the power of the Holy Spirit, your generous support, and your belief in our shared ministries, we ended the year about $10,000 short. Continue reading…

from Pr. Natasha Woitzel-Kolles, Sheyenne-Oberon Parish
During my very first council meeting at First Lutheran Church, Sheyenne ND (Sheyenne Oberon Area Ministry) last July, the council expressed their desire to have a special Sunday service focusing awareness on benevolence. After months of trying to organize and find a suitable date, our vision was realized on January 30. All four of the churches met in a joint service. We used this service as an opportunity to explore ways of worshipping creatively. Continue reading…

At the spring 2010 synod assembly, Bishop Rindy talked with attendees about Mission Support or “First Mile” giving to and through the synod. He shared a possibility of going the “Extra Mile” for mission. Many congregations have heard and participated. Following is a synod update. Continue reading…

Mayville and Gran Lutheran Churches Challenged to go the “Extra Mile”
The Mayville Lutheran Foundation voted to match contributions that members of Mayville and Gran Lutheran Churches (external link) give to the “Extra Mile” at the rate of $1 for every $4 given. When individuals reach their goal of $72 (above & beyond regular giving), the Mayville Lutheran Foundation will give an additional $18 (an extra lap around the track) for a total of $90. If 140 members gave Continue reading…

Tri-County Ministry recently started a young adult group and named itself The Test Kitchen. The group meets bi-monthly experiencing various events such as Bible study and supper, Wii night, and bowling.
In April the group met for supper and discussion – and the topic was “mission”. The meeting date fell shortly after the Eastern North Dakota Synod Assembly; one of the group’s members had attended assembly as a voting member. He was excited about the “Extra Mile for Mission” Bishop Bill Rindy proposed Continue reading…

2010 Synod Assembly Address from EaND Bishop Bill Rindy
Bishop Rindy outlines the current state of our synod and the need for significant changes in our mission. He also passionately outlines the “Extra Mile for Mission” challenge, a charge to each of us to be active witnesses in our congregations, synod, and world. Video and PowerPoint resources attached. Continue reading…
Sisters and Brothers in Christ,
Last year, we made a bold commitment as a synod to increase our financial support of ministries we do together, about which we care deeply. Multiple events of the past year have contributed to our falling short of that goal. As your synod council once again was charged with the task of reducing expenditures/cutting ministries, it proved to be a painful event once more.
I began reflecting on the expectations of this synod when I was elected two years ago to serve you in this capacity. Over the past 20 years, our synod has seen a reduction of over 60% support when adjusted for inflation. Reflecting on the resolution passed last year caused me to wonder, “What would our synod mission plan (budget) look like if we achieved the 10% goal?” So I started dreaming with our mission partners in mind. Continue reading…