English District Blog

Showing God's Love in Response to Superstorm Sandy

Even though it has been more than two months since Superstorm Sandy ravaged the East Coast, many homes, businesses and congregations are still feeling its effects. But thanks to the continued generous support of several English District churches – including a recent $1,600 free-will offering gift from Grace Lutheran Church in Redford, MI – and other Lutheran congregations, relief efforts are able to continue to provide aid and encouragement for our brothers and sisters in Christ.

Aftermath of Superstorm Sandy: Brothers and Sisters in Christ in the English District

Dearly beloved in the Lord Jesus,

The Ewell (B)Log - Effective Parental Discipline

One of the toughest tasks for a parent is that of applying discipline to one's children. Children truly desire discipline in their lives and it can be done with a proper balance of Law and Gospel. The following five reminders may be helpful when it comes to disciplining a child:

1. Never discipline in anger, as tough as that is to do.
2. Pick your battles, not everything is worth going to war over.
3. Realize that even children need to express anger from time to time.
4. Choose the best time and place to discipline. Discipline in private.

In Defense of the Unborn: English and Michigan Districts Stand in Solidarity with the Roman Catholic Church

According to the Lutheran Church-Missouri Synod website, the birth control mandate that is part of the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (PPACA) “runs counter to the biblical truth of the sanctity of human life and creates a conflict of conscience for religious employers and insurers who face steep penalties for non-compliance based upon their religious convictions.” Both LCMS and the Roman Catholic Church have publicly expressed their opposition to the mandates of The Unit

The Ewell (B)Log - Modeling Worship for the Family

Parents are the primary shapers of faith and life in the family. Modeling the importance of worshipping the one, true Living God each week is such an important part of a parent’s role in the faith development of a child. The following are some practical ways that parents can help children and youth to become active participants in worship:

Is it worth it?

The Ewell (B)Log - 2013 NYG

The theme for the 2013 National LCMS Youth Gathering has been set, "Live Love(d)" based on 1 John 4:9. The next NYG will be July 1-5, 2013 in San Antonio, Texas. Registration opens in October 2012 ... believe it or not! The English District is once again planning for a major role in this triennial youth event. In the months to come, watch for more information from district and Synod plus the naming of our 2013 ED NYG Coordinator.

The Ewell (B) Log - More Best Practices

For our pastors with early childhood centers and to some extent elementary schools as well ... Much of parenting in an early childhood center takes place in the hallways, corridors and parking lots of the school during drop-off and pick-up. Parents talk, question, share, vent, etc. This is a great time for a pastor and other church staff to be visible (as able) to be there to greet, listen, help, share, It is a great way to connect, try to establish a relationship. This is a best practice of congregations where there is a close school/church connection and a fruitful feeder relationship.

Change or Die!

The statement "change or die" is as harsh as reality gets. "Change your diet and lifestyle or the next heart attack will kill you." Is that statement one of harsh reality or one that is incredibly caring? Maybe it’s both. In the business book "Change or Die" the author Alan Deutschman says your answer doesn't matter. Most people will not change their lifestyle or diet no matter the intent behind the statement change or die.