Dear Friends in Christ,
Peace be with you!
In the Gospel reading for May 10, Jesus says, “Truly, truly, I say to you, he who believes in me will also do the works that I do; and greater works than these will he do, because I go to the Father. Whatever you ask in my name, I will do it, that the Father may be glorified in the Son; if you ask anything in my name, I will do it” (John 14:12-14).
In this time of uncertainty, we are asking much in Jesus’ name. We are certainly asking Jesus to care for the most vulnerable, especially those needing food and life’s essentials. I write to invite you to participate as an answer to prayer in Jesus’ name.
Today is #GivingTuesdayNow, a global day of giving and unity as an emergency response to the unprecedented need caused by COVID-19. Will you show your support with a gift to our synod’s Disaster Response Fund today?
Across the state of Michigan, we are experiencing the effects of this pandemic. We comfort those who are affected, we appreciate those working on the frontlines, we support those who are struggling, and we mourn those we have lost. We know that we must continue to minster to each other, to those hurting and searching for peace, and to those in need; but we can’t do this work without you. Give Now.
Together with grants from the ELCA and Lutheran Disaster Response, your gifts to the North/West Lower Michigan Synod’s Disaster Response Fund will support congregations that are best positioned to help others during this pandemic. Please join Cathy and me and participate in GivingTuesdayNow by visiting our website or through the Mitten Synod App.
Whether you’re sharing your skills, helping your neighbors, or giving to your congregation or the North/West Lower Michigan Synod’s Disaster Response Fund, your acts of generosity are a way to share your faith during this pandemic. If you’ve already made a gift in support of these efforts, we thank you.
Thank you for being witnesses to Jesus by participating in this movement. I am asking Jesus to ground you in courage and surround you and those you love with God’s abiding love.
Peace,
The Rev. Craig Alan Satterlee, Ph.D, Bishop