Quick! What’s your favorite hymn? If you answered “I Love to Tell the Story” then I’ve got an opportunity for you!
The ELCA’s Mission Interpretation Ministry (MIM) was formed in 1993 to share with others how God is active in our lives and in our communities. We have a story to tell and it is God’s story as written in scripture, and our story as God has touched our lives and the lives of those around us.
MIM will be holding their conference virtually this year. Starting August 15, a series of virtual sessions will equip us on the role of storytelling, sources for stories, and how to effectively tell the story. As storytellers, we can then assist in telling the story far and wide throughout our synod and into our communities. More information is available below.
Our Southeastern Synod has some available spots for the training.
Please contact Pastor Karen Boda at kboda@elca-ses.org if you are interested.
ELCA Mission Interpretation Ministry Conference
A Series of Virtual Sessions Starting August, 2020
We are a church that believes God is calling us into the world — together. As members of the ELCA, we use our time, talents and resources to do God’s work in the world. Stories of how these gifts focus on congregation, synod and churchwide activities are shared through Mission Interpretation Ministry.
In 2020 leaders of this ministry will be equipped and supported through virtual gatherings beginning on Saturday, August 15. Each synod is invited to have 3-5 people participate in these tracks. Registrants will be encouraged to participate in the two tracks described below.
Mission Interpretation: Beginning the Journey (MIB) is designed for those new to Mission Interpretation Ministry. In our first session we will focus on the purpose and role of Mission Interpreters in the congregation and in the synod. Subsequent sessions will focus on:
- the role of storytelling and skills for effective storytelling,
- planning for effective Mission Interpretation,
- sources for stories,
- recruiting and developing new Mission Interpreters.
- learning more about specific ministries of the ELCA.
Individuals who want to have a better understanding of mission interpretation in the congregation and synod will benefit from this track. This will develop and strengthen basic knowledge and skills.
Advancing the Interpretation Mission Journey (AIM) is designed for those who have experience
in Mission Interpretation Ministry. Nurturing and expanding this ministry within the synod can be a challenge. In this track leaders will learn how to:
- expand the ministry through social media and networking,
- introduce MI to small and large groups,
- conduct a SWOT analysis,
- develop a 90-day plan
While learning more about the connection between mission interpretation and God’s work through the ELCA, leaders will share best practices and effective strategies.
This online learning and community-building
begins on Saturday, August 15, (10:30-12:30 CDT) via Zoom.
MIB will continue on the first Tuesday of the following three months – September 8, October 6, and November 13, at 6 PM CDT.
AIM sessions will be held on the third Thursdays - September 24, October 22, and November 19, at 6 PM CDT. A sharing of best Mission Interpretation Ministry practices and celebration of progress will be held on Saturday, January 16, Saturday 10:30-12:30 CDT.
