rstm-march-2015-newsletterIn this issue from LCMS’ Rural & Small Town Mission (RSTM), the ministry partnership (“joining”) created between Trinity Evangelical Lutheran Church, Creston, Iowa, and First Lutheran Church, Mount Ayr, Iowa, is highlighted. This combined congregation (under the name of Trinity Evangelical Lutheran Church) is a great example of the possibilities for ministry partnerships that exist for all congregations, especially those in rural and small towns.

In addition, general information about the ongoing Engaging Your Community (EYC) events and monthly free webinars is communicated.

Visit www.lcms.org/rstm to learn more about the ministry of and the resources provided from LCMS’ Rural & Small Town Mission (RSTM). Also, mark your calendars and be praying for the following upcoming events offered through RSTM:

  • Small Confirmation Options free webinar presented by the Rev. Kenton Birtell, pastor, Mount Calvary Lutheran Church, Holdrege, Neb. — Thursday, March 12, 1-2 p.m. CST. Visit www.lcms.org/rstm if you are interested in participating.
  • Engaging Your Community (EYC) event at St. Matthew Lutheran Church in Nortonville, Kan. — Saturday, March 21, from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. CST. For this event, the LCMS Kansas District will help with the presentations. To register, go to www.lcms.org/rstm/engaging-rural-communities or contact the RSTM office.
  • Preparing Your Grad for the Next Step free webinar presented by the Rev. Marcus Zill, director, LCMS Campus Ministry — Thursday, April 23, 1-2 p.m. CST. Visit www.lcms.org/rstm if you are interested in participating.
  • Engaging Your Community (EYC) event at Immanuel Lutheran Church in Belvidere, Ill. — Saturday, May 30, from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. CST. For this event, the LCMS Northern Illinois District will help with the presentations. To register, go to www.lcms.org/rstm/engaging-rural-communities or contact the RSTM office.
  • 2015 National Rural & Small Town Mission Conference in Kansas City, Mo. at the Kansas City Airport Marriott — Thursday, Nov. 5, through Saturday, Nov. 7. Keynote speakers include the Rev. Ken Klaus, speaker emeritus, “The Lutheran Hour”; Chaplain Craig Muehler, director, LCMS Ministry to the Armed Forces; the Rev. Dr. Lucas Woodford, senior pastor, Zion Lutheran Church and School, Mayer, Minn.; and the Rev. Todd Kollbaum, director, RSTM. Watch for updates and more information regarding registration at www.lcms.org/rstm/conference.