Touchy Women Bishops Are 55%, A Bit More Than Their Cowering Male Counterparts.

 

Thrivent binds them together. 

 

Grand Canyon Synod of ELCA 

 Liz took an ussy for their youth convention.
So cool, so yesterday.

ELCA Church Council Considers Legislative Proposals for the 2025 Churchwide Assembly

November 21, 2024 Brian Flatgard

The Church Council of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America (ELCA) gathered at the Lutheran Center in Chicago, Nov. 14-17. The council, which serves as the ELCA churchwide organization’s board of directors and interim legislative authority between meetings of a churchwide assembly, focused much of its work on preparations for the ELCA 2025 Churchwide Assembly.

In her report to the council, ELCA Presiding Bishop Elizabeth Eaton spoke of God’s Love Made Real as the umbrella for the church’s vision of “a world experiencing the difference God’s grace and love in Christ make for all people and creation.” The vision calls for two distinct strategies for the church moving forward: the church that is and the church that is becoming.

Eaton emphasized that the focus of this work is to build out ways to strengthen and walk alongside congregations and the ministries that take place outside the walls of a traditional church building. “All these people, we all desperately need to hear the liberating word of Jesus and the gospel,” she said. “So how do we connect with them?”

In key actions, the council:

·      Approved amendments to “Constitutions, Bylaws, and Continuing Resolutions of the ELCA” that were drafted in response to the Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, Accessibility (DEIA) Audit. The audit report was presented to the council at its fall 2023 meeting.

·      Recommended to the 2025 Churchwide Assembly certain amendments to “Constitutions, Bylaws, and Continuing Resolutions of the ELCA” that were brought to the council by the Commission for a Renewed Lutheran Church (CRLC).

·      Approved a 2025 fiscal year current fund spending authorization of $67,875,000 and a 2025 ELCA World Hunger spending authorization of $21,500,000.

·      Passed a social policy resolution affirming support for and collaboration with Jubilee USA Network. The ELCA is a founding member of the network, a coalition aimed at debt relief for under-resourced countries and redirection of resources to reducing poverty and providing health care and education to people living in poverty and with deep need.

·      Named Des Moines, Iowa, as the site for the 2028 Churchwide Assembly.

·      Approved amendment of certain continuing resolutions in “Constitutions, Bylaws, and Continuing Resolutions of the ELCA.”

·      Received reports and approved actions related to the creation of a racial justice ombudsperson position, as recommended by the task force on the ELCA Discipline Process for Rostered Ministers of Color.

·      Recommended to the 2025 Churchwide Assembly amendments to “Constitutions, Bylaws, and Continuing Resolutions of the ELCA.” Topics include the Candidacy Leadership Development Working Group, on-leave-from-call status and specialized ministry, and allowing participants of synod-authorized worshiping communities to be elected as voting members of assemblies and to other elected positions.

·      Acknowledged amendment to the governing documents of this church related to nonbinary inclusion and to gendered language in the constitution.

·      Received a report and affirmed recommendation of the Task Force on On-Leave-From-Call and Specialized Ministry, and requested a final report for its spring 2025 meeting.

·      Deferred action on an ELCA name change until after the 2025 Churchwide Assembly.

·      Received the Holy Communion Practices report of the Worship team and encouraged continued dialogue and discernment on sacramental practice.

·      Approved criteria to establish and maintain relationships with ELCA outdoor ministries.

·      Affirmed the recommendations of the Service and Justice home area on the ELCA Strategy Regarding Black Migrants. This is in response to a 2022 Churchwide Assembly action requesting the preparation of a proposal to strengthen the advocacy, protection and accompaniment of Black migrants.

·      Encouraged congregations to implement the recommendations of the resolution “ELCA Advocacy for Peace and Justice in the Middle East and Dismantling of Christian Zionism in Our Churches.”

·      Elected members of the boards of directors of Wartburg Theological Seminary and the Lutheran School of Theology at Chicago, elected a member of the advisory board for Pacific Lutheran Theological Seminary at California Lutheran University, elected a member to the board of trustees of the Publishing House of the ELCA (Augsburg Fortress) and appointed a member to the board of directors of National Lutheran Campus Ministry.

The council received/engaged in the following:

·      An update on and discussion of the work of the Commission for a Renewed Lutheran Church.

·      An update on God’s Love Made Real and the ELCA Vision team.

·      An update from Portico Benefit Services, addressing the “reExamined” project.

·      Reports and updates from officers, the chair of the Conference of Bishops, and committees of the Church Council.

·      Racial justice and gender justice education.

·      The meeting of the Luther College Corporation.

·      Personal reflections on faith from council members.

·      Worship, prayer, Bible study and fellowship.

Discover even less from Grand Canyon Synod of the ELCA

Vegetables Mean Health and Lowering Cholesterol

 

The 7 Best Frozen Vegetables for Better Cholesterol, Recommended by Dietitians

Keep your freezer stocked with these dietitian-approved, fiber-rich veggies. Your budget and heart health will thank you.

When it comes to managing high cholesterol, small dietary changes can help. Eating enough vegetables not only helps reduce high cholesterol but can actually prevent the condition. While you may think that fresh veggies are healthiest, think again. Frozen veggies are just as nutritious. Plus, they tend to be budget-friendly and have a much longer shelf life.

High cholesterol affects about 10% of U.S. adults. And having it puts you at a higher risk of developing heart disease and stroke.1 We spoke with registered dietitians and dove into the latest research to share the seven best frozen vegetables for lower cholesterol.

Are Canned and Frozen Vegetables Healthier Than Fresh?

1. Edamame

Edamame (aka young soybeans) is a good source of a key nutrient for cholesterol: soluble fiber. “Although fiber never enters the bloodstream, soluble fiber binds to bile in the digestive tract and carries it out of the body. The liver then uses cholesterol to create new bile, thus lowering blood cholesterol levels,” explains Stephanie Dunne, M.S., RDN, IFNCP, an integrative registered dietitian nutritionist and founder at Nutrition Q.E.D. Just 1 cup of frozen edamame contains 8 grams of fiber and 18 grams of plant-based protein.2

Edamame is also a source of isoflavones, compounds in soy products that may help lower cholesterol levels.3

You can find frozen edamame in the pod or shelled. “I always keep a bag of frozen edamame on hand to toss in salads, stir-fries and soups,” says Laura M. Ali, M.S., RDN, a culinary nutritionist based in Pittsburgh.

2. Green Peas

Green peas have 7 grams of cholesterol-lowering fiber per cup.4 Plus, they’re another plant-based source of protein, with 8 grams protein per cup. “Higher intake of plant-based proteins has been shown to be helpful with cholesterol as they are often lower in saturated fats,” says Patricia Kolesa, M.S., RDN, founder of Dietitian Dish LLC. In other words, replacing some animal proteins (think beef, sausage, bacon and deli meat) with peas can help lower your total saturated fat intake. Consuming too much saturated fat is associated with high levels of LDL cholesterol (known as “bad” cholesterol).5

Kolesa recommends tossing frozen green peas into pasta dishes, casseroles, stir-fries and soups or serving them as a side dish. If you’re looking for ideas, try our Pea Soup or Skillet Tuna Noodle Casserole. 

3. Spinach

Frozen spinach is jam-packed with fiber, vitamins, minerals and antioxidants to promote heart health. “Spinach is high in insoluble fiber and can help reduce LDL cholesterol levels. As a plant-based source of iron and protein, it’s also a great source of calcium, vitamin C and various antioxidants to help you stay healthy,” says Daria Zajac, RD, LDN, at The Polish Dietitian. 

This leafy green is also high in antioxidants, particularly one of them. “Spinach is rich in a compound called lutein, an antioxidant known to help reduce inflammation. Research suggests that lutein may help cholesterol oxidation, which may help prevent cholesterol from sticking to artery walls,” says Vandana Sheth, RDN, CDCES, FAND, a registered dietitian nutritionist and plant-based and diabetes expert. In fact, studies show that eating more dark leafy greens like spinach is linked with lower rates of cardiovascular disease.6

Zajac suggests adding it to stews, soups or your morning eggs. Added bonus: It goes great in your morning smoothie.

21 Recipes That Start with a Package of Frozen Spinach

4. Cauliflower

Cauliflower is another frozen veggie worth stocking up on. Heidi McIndoo, M.S., RD, the FoodieMomRD, recommends it for its heart-healthy fiber and lack of saturated fat. Each cup of frozen cauliflower has 3 grams of fiber—10% of the Daily Value.7

McIndoo notes, “It's delicious roasted with just a little olive oil and kosher salt, or fancy it up with a drizzle of Buffalo sauce before popping into the oven. You can also puree it after steaming it to turn it into a perfect substitute for some or all of the cream in cream-based soups and sauces like potato soup or fettuccini Alfredo.” Like McIndoo’s suggestion? Try our Roasted Buffalo Cauliflower version. 

5. Broccoli

Like the other veggies on this list, broccoli is rich in fiber and micronutrients. What makes it stand out is its glucosinolate content, particularly sulforaphane. This is a phytochemical found almost exclusively in cruciferous veggies like broccoli, cauliflower and Brussels sprouts. 

“Research suggests that sulforaphane may help reduce oxidative stress and inflammation, both key factors that support heart health,” says Sheth. In fact, one small study found that eating about 1 cup of broccoli per day improved HDL cholesterol (known as “good” cholesterol) by 7.6% in female participants. In male participants, it reduced their total cholesterol by 10%.8

A bag of frozen broccoli can be used in anything from ramen noodles to mac and cheese to casseroles and more.

6. Brussels Sprouts

Each cup of Brussels sprouts has 2 grams of soluble fiber, the kind that’s especially helpful for lowering cholesterol.9 Brussels sprouts are also rich in antioxidants and phytochemicals that could provide more cholesterol-related benefits. 

“Brussels sprouts contain plant compounds, including kaempferol, which has both antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Kaempferol has been linked to promoting heart health and lowering cholesterol levels,” says Sheth. A 2022 study in Phytotherapy Research found that eating more brassica vegetables like Brussels sprouts is linked to significantly reducing total cholesterol levels.10

Roasting them is one of the best ways to enjoy them. Browse through some Brussels sprouts recipes to spark inspiration.

7. Mushrooms

These earthy veggies are easy to toss in pasta dishes, add to pizza or sauté on their own. Plus, they have unique benefits when it comes to cholesterol. “Mushrooms contain beta-glucans, a type of soluble fiber known to help reduce cholesterol by binding to cholesterol-rich bile acids and removing them from the body,” says Lauren Manaker, M.S., RDN, LD, a registered dietitian based in Charleston, South Carolina. 

“Some studies suggest that certain varieties, like shiitake mushrooms, contain compounds that can further enhance cholesterol metabolism and promote heart health,” says Manaker. Other varieties shown to benefit cholesterol include enoki mushrooms, reishi mushrooms and portobello mushrooms.11

Miss NBC Down for the Long Count

 

Reformation Seminary Lecture - John 13 - Part 1

--

13 Now before the feast of the passover, when Jesus knew that his hour was come that he should depart out of this world unto the Father, having loved his own which were in the world, he loved them unto the end. [Foreknowledge]

2 And supper being ended, the devil having now put into the heart of Judas Iscariot, Simon's son, to betray him;

3 Jesus knowing that the Father had given all things into his hands, and that he was come from God, and went to God;

4 He riseth from supper, and laid aside his garments; and took a towel, and girded himself. [German Baptists, called Dunkers, teach the washing of feet, adult baptism face]

5 After that he poureth water into a bason, and began to wash the disciples' feet, and to wipe them with the towel wherewith he was girded.

6 Then cometh he to Simon Peter: and Peter saith unto him, Lord, dost thou wash my feet?

7 Jesus answered and said unto him, What I do thou knowest not now; but thou shalt know hereafter.

8 Peter saith unto him, Thou shalt never wash my feet. Jesus answered him, If I wash thee not, thou hast no part with me.

9 Simon Peter saith unto him, Lord, not my feet only, but also my hands and my head. [Impulsive Peter...on this Rock...ledge, who is Christ]

10 Jesus saith to him, He that is washed needeth not save to wash his feet, but is clean every whit: and ye are clean, but not all.

11 For he knew who should betray him; therefore said he, Ye are not all clean.

12 So after he had washed their feet, and had taken his garments, and was set down again, he said unto them, Know ye what I have done to you?

13 Ye call me Master and Lord: and ye say well; for so I am.

14 If I then, your Lord and Master, have washed your feet; ye also ought to wash one another's feet. [Do babies have faith? Andy Stanley - Dedication Day]

15 For I have given you an example, that ye should do as I have done to you.

16 Verily, verily, I say unto you, The servant is not greater than his lord; neither he that is sent greater than he that sent him.

17 If ye know these things, happy are ye if ye do them.

18 I speak not of you all: I know whom I have chosen: but that the scripture may be fulfilled, He that eateth bread with me hath lifted up his heel against me.

19 Now I tell you before it come, that, when it is come to pass, ye may believe that I am he.

20 Verily, verily, I say unto you, He that receiveth whomsoever I send receiveth me; and he that receiveth me receiveth him that sent me. [Receive is parallel to believe.]

Daily Luther Sermon Quote - Trinity 26 - For Christ himself shows that he is speaking of the works of believing Christians, when he says: “I was hungry and ye gave me to eat,” etc.; “what ye have done unto the least of these my brethren ye have done unto me.”

 

Luther's Sermons - Matthew 25:31-46.
Twenty-Sixth Sunday after Trinity

10. For Christ himself shows that he is speaking of the works of believing Christians, when he says: “I was hungry and ye gave me to eat,” etc.; “what ye have done unto the least of these my brethren ye have done unto me.” For there is no doubt that he who performs such works of mercy to Christians, must himself be a Christian and a believer; but he who does not believe in Christ, will certainly never be so kind toward a Christian, much less toward Christ, so that for his sake he would show mercy to the poor, and needy; therefore he will refer to these works at the judgment, and accordingly pronounce the verdict to both parties, to those who have done, and those who have not done these works, as a public testimony of the fruits of their faith or of their unbelief.

11. It seems as though he meant hereby to show that many Christians, after receiving the preaching of the Gospel, of the forgiveness of sins and grace through Christ, become even worse than the heathen. For he also says in Matthew 19:30, “Many that are first shall be last; and the last shall be first.” Thus it will also be at the end of the world; those who should be honest Christians, because they heard the Gospel, are much worse and more unmerciful than they were before, as we see too many examples of this even now.

Aforetime when we were to do good works under the seduction and false worship of the Papacy, every one was ready and willing; a prince, for example, or a city, could give more alms and a greater endowment than now all the kings and emperors are able to give. But now all the world seems to be learning nothing else than how to estimate values, to rake and scrape, to rob and steal by lying, deceiving, usury, overcharging, overrating, and the like; and every man treats his neighbor, not as though he were his friend, much less as his brother in Christ, but as his mortal enemy, and as though he intended to snatch all things to himself and begrudge everything to others.

12. This goes on daily, is constantly increasing, is a very common practice and custom, among all classes of people, among princes, the nobility, burghers, peasants, in all courts, cities, villages, yes in almost every home.

Which Is More Hilarious? LutherQuest Accusing People of Being OJ-Deniers - Or - LQs Are Confessional Lutherans?

 

The "Great Walther" loved these two terms - Objective Justification and Subjective Justification - which came from Knapp's Reformed Pietistic translator.

CFW Walther was a Pietist with a group of followers who attached themselves to Pastor Martin Stephan, who had Walther and others sign his promotion to bishop before he stepped foot in New Orleans. 

From Bishop Stephan to Bishop DeJaynes to Bishop Heiser: three self-enthroned.

Walther used Stephan's syphilitic promiscuity to steal his bishop's land, gold, and diocese. The Four Waltherian Cults - LCMS-WELS-ELS-CLC (sic) have followed Walther ever since.

The Waltherians continue to spout the propaganda of their slave-master to keep alive the bizarre dogma of Stephan. In fact, anyone questioning the four cults is going to be banished.

The haughty LutherQuest crowd wants to call themselves Confessional Lutherans but they never stop praising their beloved Objective Justification. They do not confess:

1. The KJV Bible
2. The Book of Concord
3. The basic rules of rhetoric 
4. Their passionate embrace of logical fallacies.

Like the ALPB Ovaltines, the Waltherian Four bemoan the loss of substance in their discussions, and their frightening lack of participants.