A WORD ABOUT . . . OUR SEMINARIANS!

NOVEMBER 2011

It is the message of creation, the start of the Biblical story of humanity; in the beginning, God made the world and called it good. Humankind was created from the dust of the earth and in God's own image and likeness. The story of creation does not end there. Baptism has made us new creations in Christ and as such we are called to be reflections of our loving God in our relationships with one another. In our partnership with God, we are each asked to ensure that the world is as good as God would have it. In worship we join in prayer and engage in relationship with our brothers and sisters all over the world. Together we are the body of Christ. The world is good so remember to love and engage it. As the seasons change let us give thanks to a God at work in this world daily recreating. Gathered together, and engaged with the world we remember Christ crucified and risen, and are comforted by His presence in our lives and the world.

OCTOBER 2011

 Hello Christ’s Lutheran!

In the spirit of Christ, we are called to be attentive to God’s grace all around us. As your seminarian this year, I look forward to witnessing the grace of God working with and through the many ministries taking place at CLC. It is an honor and blessing to be part of this community of faith.

I am a native of Baltimore, Maryland, where I lived for 34 years before beginning my seminary studies. I earned my AA degree from The Community College of Baltimore County and my BA from College of Notre Dame of Maryland with a major in Religious Studies. Before beginning seminary I worked for Baltimore County Public Schools as an instructional assistant for behaviorally challenged children in pre-K and Kindergarten. I completed my Clinical Pastoral Education last summer with Phoebe Ministries at Wyncote Church Home. I have three children ages 16, 6, and 4.

My formation thus far has taught me that God gathers up our lives, using what we have experienced and what we have learned — individually and collectively — as the church — to help us share the Good News. I pray that our time together will be full of God’s grace in the presence and promise of our Risen Lord, ever reminding us that the grace of God is eternal.

Julie Stumpf

INTRODUCING OUR NEW SEMINARIAN — JULIE STUMPF

Julie, a Baltimore native, begins her school year at CLC on Sunday, August 7.

She earned her AA at the Community College of Baltimore County and her BA at College of Notre Dame of Maryland with a major in Religious Studies.

Before starting seminary, Julie worked for Baltimore County Public Schools as an instructional assistant for behaviorally-challenged little people and those with autism in pre-K and Kindergarten.

She completed her Clinical Pastoral Education with Phoebe Ministries last summer at Wyncote Church Home. This summer, Julie is working as a camp counselor at Grace Lutheran in Norristown.

A single Mom, Julie has three children: Brianna, at Central High School; Jaason, rising first-grader; and Grace, who begins pre-school in the Fall.

Julie's year with us will focus on worship, preaching, confirmation, and adult education

."I have a genuine love for God's Word and for social justice, and am looking forward to meeting, serving, and learning from the congregation," Julie said. "I am thankful for their willingness to participate in my formation and am excited to see the ways that the Holy Spirit is at work at CLC."

Welcome!

The winner is chosen based on academic achievements, contributions to seminary life, and promise for the ministry.

Congratulations, Evan! And best wishes as you begin your internship in Lancaster.