New PLTS Website!

FINALLY! PLTS has updated the webpage to be easier to use, more interesting, and more visually appealing. I hope you'll check out http://www.plts.edu/ to see what we're up to. This is only a "private launch" for now, but I'll let you all in on the little secret. Our public launch won't be for another few weeks because the final edits are not yet complete. Nevertheless, check out the new look of the Admissions Sections!

Faith Active in Love

Faith Active in Love is a series of three week-long sessions in the San Francisco Bay Area that immerse participants in experiential learning and theological reflection regarding a distinct justice issue each week. Students engage in the complexities of a particular topic by: listening to people affected, visiting innovative non-profit and community organizations, talking with top theologians at the Graduate Theological Union, participating in hands-on activities, discussing the issue with one another in small groups, and reflecting theologically on our Christian response. This year, we've had wonderful, wonderful students on campus for this program and are just finishing up Week 2: Immigration. If you've been reading this blog for a while, you might remember Pr. Kim Erno from Mexico City. He was our guest speaker this week as his work in Mexico has had a lot to do with immigration and workers' rights. Check back later for pictures and check out http://www.faithactiveinlove.com/ for more information.

Grand Canyon Synod Assembly

(Pix coming soon.) My own synod is the Grand Canyon Synod. I am rostered there and, therefore, a voting member at that Assembly. This is the time each year when the synodical expressions of the ELCA gather in assembly to pray, to commune, to do business, and to chart the course for the coming year. It is also a wonderful time for me to connect with colleagues in that synod (many of whom were classmates of mine in seminary). My bishop, Pr. Steve Talmage, was elected just over a year ago and is leading the synod with an eye toward mission: How can the church bring the gospel of liberation, freedom, and justice into all parts of the Grand Canyon Synod . . . a fair question for us to ask ourselves about our own lives.

Southwest California Synod Youth Convocation

(Pix coming soon.) I had the honor of being asked to participate in the Youth Convocation / LYO Gathering of the Southwest California Synod this year. Serving as Event Chaplain for the Convo, I also had the privelege of spending time with the leaders of the event in conversation about God's call to them in the world. It is always edifying to be reminded in what good hands the church finds itself when there are people like this in the lead. These fine leaders take their roles as Children of God quite seriously and will continue to have a significant impact on the world!