Northeastern Pennsylvania Synod - NEPA, ELCA

06/17/2026

On June 17, we remember the Emanuel Nine, who were killed during Bible study at Mother Emanuel AME Church in Charleston, South Carolina, in 2015.

As we remember Cynthia Marie Graham Hurd, Susie J. Jackson, Ethel Lee Lance, Reverend DePayne Middleton-Doctor, Reverend Clementa C. Pinckney, Tywanza, Kibwe Diop Sanders, Reverend Daniel Lee Simmons, Sr., Reverend Sharonda Coleman-Singleton, Myra Singleton Quarles Thompson, we pray for healing, justice, and an end to racism and racial violence.

Lord, help us remember their names and their stories, and inspire us to work for a world where all people are valued, loved, and safe.

06/16/2026

PASTOR CELEBRATES 40 YEARS AND INSTALLATION
The congregation of St. Stephen's Evangelical Lutheran Church, Bethlehem had double reason to thank God on Sunday morning, June 14, as their new pastor, Rev Barry Harte, was installed, and celebrated the 40th Anniversary of his ordination. Bishop Chris deForest offer the sermon and stayed for the delicious reception that followed. Congratulations Pastor Harte and St. Stephen’s!

06/16/2026

BISHOP WITH WELCA: The NEPA Synod chapter of the Women of the ELCA met in their assembly on Saturday, June 13, with Bishop Chris deForest speaking and serving in worship with Pastor Virginia Goodwin at St Paul, Breinigsville.

06/16/2026

Check out this week's e-news: June 16
https://conta.cc/4xyvfpN

Email from Northeastern PA Synod of the ELCA   June 16, 2026   SYNOD NEWS St. John’s Lutheran Slatington Offers a “Second Chance” Authored by Cheryl Burke, Deborah Geiger, Nanc

06/15/2026

This week, we remember the Emanuel Nine on June 17 and celebrate Juneteenth on June 19.

In observance of Juneteenth, the Lutheran Center will be closed on Friday, June 19.

We invite you to learn more through the ELCA's African Descent Ministries resources and take time this week to pray, reflect, and recommit ourselves to God's work of reconciliation and justice.

https://elcamediaresources.blob.core.windows.net/cdn/wp-content/uploads/African_Descent_Ministries_Annual_Report_2022.pdf

06/15/2026

AROUND THE SYNOD

Flat SJ has been busy! This creative ministry from St. John's Lutheran Church in Nazareth has taken Flat SJ everywhere from camping trips and community events to Synod Assembly and the synod office. It's a fun way to connect members and share life together beyond Sunday morning.

Thanks for sharing your adventures!

06/15/2026

Personal Care Kits are running out — and neighbors in crisis need them now.

When disaster strikes, Personal Care Kits are always one of the first requests.

A toothbrush. A bar of soap. A clean towel. These simple items become luxuries. They give dignity. They bring hope to our neighbors in their darkest moments.

With hurricane season intensifying and disasters increasing in frequency and force, Lutheran World Relief needs your love — and your Personal Care Kits — urgently.

Whether you make one kit on your own or hundreds with your congregation, school or community group — every single kit will reach someone in their most vulnerable moment.

Use the available resources at the link in the blog and get started today. So when neighbors face disaster, your love will already be waiting. https://bit.ly/3SBEBB6

Until your love reaches every neighbor.

06/15/2026

Registration for Summer Family Camp closes June 21st — don't miss it! 🏕️
Grandparents, cousins, friends — whoever your people are, bring them all! Join us July 5–10 (or half week July 5–8) for a fun-filled week at Bear Creek Camp. Swimming, hiking, high ropes, crafts, worship, games, and more — plus three meals a day and cabin accommodations for your whole group.
Full week pricing (ages 7+): $355 (Retreat Center) | $330 (Program Site)
Ages 3–6 and under are discounted; ages 3 and under are free.
Register by June 21st at the link below! 🌲
https://bearcreekcamp.campbrainregistration.com/

06/12/2026

📰JULY NEWSLETTER

What does Mission Support make possible?

At the 2026 Synod Assembly, we heard stories of congregations supporting one another through challenges, new ministries reaching people in creative ways, companion synod relationships around the world, and leaders being raised up for service.

These stories share a common theme: we are stronger when we serve together.

Read our latest Mission Support article to learn how your congregation's shared support helps strengthen ministries across Northeastern Pennsylvania and beyond.

https://conta.cc/4v9RMrz

Email from Northeastern PA Synod of the ELCA       Download Newsletter: If you are in need of a JPEG format, visit our synod's website Color PDF Grayscale PDF JULY We Are Stron

06/12/2026

What a wonderful milestone! Congratulations to Trinity Lutheran Church Kutztown on 150 years of sharing God's love in their community. We give thanks for generations of faithful ministry and look forward to all that God has in store for the future.