TOOLS

Continuing education resources

The Continuing Education Working Group of the synod Ministry Committee has developed a Google Classroom dedicated to rostered ministers sharing continuing education resources with each other. This growing digital space will serve as a central hub for resources, learning opportunities, and new continuing education materials released throughout the year. This will be maintained by the Continuing Education Working Group - but we want you to contribute to it! This is a space where you can share continuing education opportunities that benefit your colleagues.
Class Code: xji34ziz
How to Use the Search Feature in Google Classroom:
1. Look at the top of your Classroom screen — you’ll see a search bar.
2. Type any topic (for example, “Biblical” or “Stewardship”).
3. Google Classroom will automatically filter your posts and materials to match your search.
4. This includes class stream posts, assignments, materials, and listed topics — no more endless scrolling!

Clergy Tax Guide and Federal Reporting Requirements for Churches

Each January, Portico Benefit Services provides two updated documents from Church Law & Tax:
  1. Clergy Tax Preparation Guide - which provides guidance for clergy taxes and highlights changes in the tax laws.
  2. Federal Reporting Requirements for Churches - which provides guidance on maximizing tax benefits for ministers, federal payroll tax reporting requirements, and other important requirements for churches.
As these documents become available each year, they will be uploaded to this page on our website.

Rostered Leader Respite Care Invitation

If you are having a difficult time in ministry right now, United Lutheran Seminary can offer respite care to you. Both of our campuses have plenty of guest housing that can be reserved with short notice for rostered leaders (and their spouses) at no charge for up to three nights. 

ELCA Coaching opportunities

TRAININGS

Leading Faith and Civic Life

Leading Faith and Civic Life: An Equipping Series for Rostered Ministers

Pastors and deacons are being asked to lead conversations about faith and civic life that are complex, personal, and often tense. This five-session Zoom series prepares you to lead the ELCA’s Faith and Civic Life study guide with theological clarity and practical tools for your context.

Each session focuses on a portion of the study guide, moving from scriptural and confessional foundations into applied topics like moral deliberation, civic participation, the Constitution, the First Amendment, and the church’s relationship with political authority. You can also submit your questions and concerns ahead of time so we can address real challenges you are facing.

Wednesdays | August 19, 26, September 2, 9, 16
11:00 AM–12:15 PM Eastern on Zoom
Registration is required to receive the Zoom link

You will leave with a clear understanding of the study guide, language for leading difficult conversations, and a plan for engaging your community.
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The Rev. Dr. Roger A. Willer is a pastor in the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America (ELCA) rostered in NEOS and recently retired as the Director for Theological Ethics in the ELCA Office of the Presiding Bishop. He served in that capacity as co- or lead staff person with all the writing projects of ELCA social teaching documents since 2005. He earned his PhD from the University of Chicago (2009) in theology and is a contributing scholar in theology and ethics for both church and academic audiences. His final social statement as director was Faith and Civic Life: For the Well-being of All, adopted last year.
Kindling Faith offers MANY  Learning Opportunities - Check out their website: ​https://www.unitedlutheranseminary.edu/calendar

MORE

Truth & Healing Movement

Over the next months the ELCA will provide opportunities to learn the true history and current realities of Indigenous people. It is these truths, truths that have been ignored by most for hundreds of years, that will bring healing for both Indigenous people and non-Indigenous people.

Some of these opportunities will be calls to individual action, and some will be activities that congregations and small groups should coordinate and participate in together. All these opportunities can be easily promoted by sharing links on social media or other communication platforms.

Watch this page as well as Facebook, Instagram and Twitter for opportunities to engage.

    Want to Submit a Tool, Training or More? 

FAQ's:

1.) What is a tool, training (and more)?

A tool, training (and more) is simply anything that is designed to help empower YOU or your CONGREGATION. Examples include webinars, conferences, online or in-person learning events (continuing education), special groups offering help for a cause, or financial assistance opportunities. Of course, these are just a few examples. It is up to you to use your best judgement when submitting materials.  

2.) What should I consider when submitting materials? 

a.) When submitting materials, the first thing to consider is whether or not it is designated for rostered ministers only, or if it's open to anyone in our congregations. If it is open to rostered ministers only, it will be posted on this page. If it is open to anyone, it will be posted here.

b.) The second thing to consider are the benefits and opportunities for growth. Is this something that is going to help enhance your career, personal growth, or congregation? Example of an appropriate submission: "Help your leadership  thrive! Join our upcoming 'Leaders in Faith' webinar."

3.) Where do I submit materials? 
You can submit information via the form posted above the FAQ's.