India
Northeastern Minnesota Synod of the ELCA
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In the Past...A little over 150 years ago, a German missionary named Rev. August Mylius traveled to the southern part of the Indian state of Andhra Pradesh and began sharing the Good News of Jesus Christ with the Telegu-speaking people of that area. The word of God took root in the communities of Sullurupet and Nayudupet and the South Andhra Lutheran Church was born out of these roots. SALC now has over 50 parishes with over 50,000 baptized members and is led by Bishop Michael Benhur Oppathati.
When the ELCA was formed by the merger of its predecessor church bodies, the concept of Companion Synods became an integral part of the mission and ministry of the new church body. Companion synod relationships of the ELCA connect Lutheran churches throughout the world with ELCA synods and congregations. These relationships are concrete expressions of the communion and fellowship with the more than 140 Lutheran member churches of The Lutheran World Federation. Each of the 65 synods has at least one international church companion and many have additional relationships, resulting in more than 120 companion synod relationships. These relationships are rooted in “accompaniment,” which promotes the values of mutuality, inclusivity, vulnerability, empowerment and sustainability. Through the program, companion churches and ELCA synods nurture and strengthen one another for life and ministry through prayer, study, communication, exchange of visitors and sharing of resources. The Northeastern Minnesota Synod of the ELCA and the South Andhra Lutheran Church have been Companion Synods for many years, although there was a period of several years' dormancy in the relationship. The relationship is now experiencing resurrection and new life! For more Information:If you would like more information about Lutheranism in India, the SALC, the SALC/NE MN Companion Synod Committee, or the accompaniment vision of mission, please feel free to contact Rev. Mark Wagner and/or Brenda Wagner at mbwagner965@gmail.com. Speakers are available to come to your congregation, WELCA group, youth group, or Sunday School for presentations.
Books!As part of Northeastern Minnesota Synod's companion relationship with South Andhra Lutheran Church of India (SALC), we are hoping to provide theological books for the library at Gurukul Lutheran Theological College where many SALC pastors receive their BDiv degree.
The faculty there has provided a list of books they would like to acquire for their library. Click the button below to see their list of books. If you are interested in donating any of these books please contact Loren Anderson-Bauer l.andersonbauer@gmail.com who is coordinating this project. At this time we are unable to take any books beyond those on this list. |