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1. Daily Bible study.
As we countdown the weeks to Convention (just five as of this newsletter), we rejoice in our call to be a church In Mission for Others and the signs of hope all around us. Added to this year's convention agenda is the inclusion of daily Bible study which will draw us deeper into reflection and discernment. The three daily Bible studies will be led by The Most Rev. Fred Hiltz, Primate of the Anglican Church of Canada, The Rt. Rev. Dr. Munib A. Younan, Bishop of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in Jordan and the Holy Land, and The Rev. Mark S. Hanson, Presiding Bishop of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America.
2. Convention choir needs you.
Do you like to sing? Delegates and visitors are invited to join the Convention Choir. The Choir will provide a core for congregational signing, as well as do some singing on its own. The first rehearsal is on Thursday, June 25 at 12:00 noon in the War Memorial Gym at the University of British Columbia. Come and make a joyful noise to God!
3. Visitors welcome!
The ELCIC's National Convention isn't just for delegates! Visitor fees are very reasonable and allow you to attend business sessions, hear inspiring messages from special guests, participate in daily Bible sessions and be uplifted by daily worship services, as well as bring information and new ideas back to your local congregation. Further information on how to register as a visitor for the 2009 National Convention is available on the convention website.
4. Prayers for convention.
As we prepare for the start of our National Convention and the travel that many delegates, guests and visitors will undertake to get to the University of British Columbia, ELCIC members are asked to pray for the church and this Convention that it may be a time of blessing and inspiration. The following may be used by individuals or congregations as they reflect on the business before convention delegates and our calling to be a church In Mission for Others:
God of Hope,
Jesus once prayed, "I have made your name known to those whom you gave me from the world. They were yours, and you gave them to me, and they have kept your word." (John 17:6)
We now pray, that you will deepen our awareness that we belong to Christ. We pray that we will keep your word and share your word. We pray that in living as Jesus taught us to live, we will be signs of hope in your world.
As the ELCIC prepares to gather in Vancouver, may the Spirit of the Risen Christ burn brightly in our congregations and in our convention.
Amen.
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