East region pastors and deacons gather for Spring Conference

East Pastors’ and Deacons’ Conference, Spring 2023 (Photo: Thomas M. Winger)

NIAGARA FALLS, Ont. – Pastors and deacons of Lutheran Church–Canada (LCC)’s East Region gathered April 24-26, 2023 for an in-person conference at Mount Carmel Retreat Centre in Niagara Falls. 

The Conference began with Divine Service in the Main Chapel, with Rev. Paul Williams serving as the Celebrant, and LCC President Timothy Teuscher as Preacher. The assembly sang together Lord Jesus Christ, With Us Abide (LSB 585) as the concluding hymn, with the final verse:

“Stay with us, Lord, and keep us true; Preserve our faith our whole life through—Your Word alone our heart’s defense, The Church’s glorious confidence”.

The group took every opportunity to worship together before, after, and between discussions, business matters, presentations, and meals with Matins (Liturgist: Rev. Vishal Paul; Preacher: Rev. Marvin Bublitz); Vespers (Liturgist: Rev. David Zakel; Preacher: Rev. Marvin Bublitz); Compline (Led by Rev. John Rapp); Morning Prayer (Liturgist: Rev. Saulo Bledoff; Preacher: Rev. Marvin Bublitz); and Responsive Prayer (Led by Rev. Richard Juritsch).

East Regional Pastor Marvin Bublitz, in his preaching, encouraged his fellow pastors and church workers with these words:

“Now consider this: Before the King calls us to service, the King Himself serves us. Before we are an undershepherd, we have been shepherded by the Christ.”

Rev. Dr. James A. Kellerman presents (Photo: Thomas M. Winger)

The pastors and deacons in attendance were treated to a presentation series led by Rev. Dr. James A. Kellerman and Rev. Dr. Thomas Korcok entitled “Treasures Old and New: Faithful Preaching in the 21st Century”. The focus of the presentations was learning from the best practices of preaching in the past to shape the challenges of preaching in a very different world. The presenters explored the theology of preaching contrasted with popular preaching myths, as well as proper understanding and application of rhetoric in preaching.

East Region Pastors’ and Deacons’ Conference (Photo: Thomas M. Winger)

The group received a synodical report from LCC’s President Timothy Teuscher, providing considerations and relevant updates on issues presently facing our synod. President Teuscher further discussed the mutual responsibility that congregations and pastors have to each other as a synod. He concluded in prayer with the words from Article XI of the Formula of Concord:

“May Almighty God and the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ grant the grace of His Holy Spirit so that we may all be one in Him and steadfastly remain in this Christian unity, which is well pleasing to Him. Amen.”

Other reports included:

• An update from East Regional Pastor Marvin Bublitz on recent happenings across the region;
• An update from Rev. Dan Abraham on behalf of the East’s Regional Mission and Ministry Council (RMMC); 
• An update from Dieter Kays pertaining to pensions;
• An update from LCC Director of Advancement, David Friesen, on the Purpose and Priorities Planning process and related matters;
• A reminder from LCC Director of Communications, Alex Steinke, on some of the resources available to pastors, deacons, and laity across our synod, as well as some of the ways that LCC members can stay connected from a communications standpoint;
• A presentation from Lisa Jackson, Managing Director of Lutheran Laymen’s League of Canada (LLL-C) on some of their new resources and projects, and a word of encouragement to church workers to let her know how LLL-C can best support LCC and its members.

All in all, the pastors and deacons in attendance enjoyed the opportunity for worship; fellowship; spiritual and professional growth; and delicious food! A special thank you to Rev. Don Schieman for all his work coordinating this event, as well as Carol Walrath who served as organist.

A brief video capturing the spirit of the conference was prepared by Peter Steinke, and it can be viewed on LCC’s YouTube Channel.

Planning is underway for a Fall Pastors’ and Deacons’ Conference in the East Region in 2023. Stay tuned to LCC’s InfoDigest e-newsletter for more information!

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