Faith Evangelical Lutheran Women

About the ELW — Nature and Purpose

The ELW is a community of women which recognizes the authority of scripture in its understanding of mission, in the affirmation, growth and development of women, and in the expression of faith in action. The purpose of this auxiliary shall be to proclaim the gospel of Jesus Christ through its own program and through the program of this church. To accomplish its purpose the auxiliary shall provide leadership and opportunities for women to:

  • deepen their understanding of Christian faith and relate this faith to daily living through bible study and program resources ;
  • experience spiritual growth and renewal;
  • develop a sense of self-worth in a changing society;
  • work toward justice and peace for everyone through education and avenues for support;
  • co-operate in the mission, ministry and programs of this church;
  • participate in inter-Lutheran and ecumenical relationships;
  • engage in congregational and community outreach and service;
  • develop leadership skills and avenues for sharing talents and creativity;
  • nurture home and family life

What Does the ELW Do?

  • collect stamps for the Canadian Bible Society.
  • maintain a Prayer Chain for the support of any member of the congregation.
  • represent the congregation at the World Day of Prayer Service.
  • provide items for the church to encourage fellowship such as coffee-pots and tea towels and tablecloths.
  • send cookie trays to members who are unwell, or experiencing a family crisis at Christmas.
  • make quilts and kits for Canadian Lutheran World Relief.
  • provide a gift and reception for Confirmands.
  • support a foster child in Paraguay.
  • support Canadian Bible Society through Bible-a-month club.
  • support the Carlington community chaplaincy with Christmas cookie collection and Mitten Tree and quilts.
  • provide creative worship opportunities, such as the Praise Offering service.
  • support CLWR Programs.
  • other projects as the need arises.

ELW Meeting Schedule

ELW Bible Study and Meetngs are held on the third Monday of each month, with some exceptions to avoid holiday weekends. All women of the congregation are invited to attend and bring a friend or two from other churches, not necessarily Lutheran churches. All meetings are held at Faith Lutheran Church in the basement hall.

What Happens at a Meeting?

Each meeting begins with approximately 45 minutes of bible study lead by an ELW member. Following this we discuss the status of various projects, hear news from the national ELW office and plan coming events. We then collect our offering envelopes and coins. The evening ends with refreshments and fellowship. We occasionally have a special event such as a bake/craft sale with proceeds going to a worthy cause, potluck supper, or a special guest speaker.

 

Prayer and Praise

Prayer Pals - an anonymous random pairing of participants who send cards, and notes of encouragement to one another throughout the year. Prayer Pals are revealed in December, and new ones chosen for the next year.

Prayer Chain - a telephone list of women who are committed to praying for specific people or events in the congregation.

ELW in Canada Evangelical Lutheran Women Inc.

Faith ELW is one of four levels of the ELW in Canada. Twice each year ELWs throughout the Ottawa-St. Lawrence conference get together. Every two years we gather with other ELWs from the Eastern Synod at the Biennial Convention. Every four years, at the Quadrennial Convention, ELW members from across the country gather to plan ELW programs and policies. The Bible studies and most other major programs are coordinated at the national level. Learn more about the national ELW at:ELW Canada

 

EspritESPRIT Magazine

 

ESPRIT is a quarterly publication with articles written by Christian women and men of courage, determination and faith - articles to enjoy, study and reflect upon. This award-winning publication, also contains letters, poems and news items of interest to Lutheran and other Christian women. ESPRIT provides a link between Lutheran women across Canada. An ESPRIT subscription makes a wonderful gift for a wife, mother, sister, or friend.

 

Stewardship and ELW

ELW members give an offering at the monthly meeting. Some of the funds are sent to the synodical ELW and the rest is used to support projects in our own church and community. In addition the ELW gratefully receives offerings as memorial gifts, thank-you gifts and in commemoration of special events. We also cheerfully accept fabric and supplies for quilting. If you wish to make a special gift to the ELW you may add it to your offering envelope and mark for ELW on the front or pass it along to the ELW treasurer.

 

Everyone is Welcome Join Us!

All women who are members of Faith Lutheran Church are also members of the ELW. Some of our members are from other Lutheran congregations. Some are members of other denominations. There are many different ways to participate, not everyone attends every meeting. Some participate in one specific project, such as quilting. Others may be Prayer Pals, or part of the Prayer Chain. Some find the bible study the most important and enriching part of the ELW. It's your choice, join us whenever you can for whatever you can. Regular meetings and Bible Study are held on the third Monday of each month except July and August. Other events will be announced in the Sunday bulletin or newsletter, or here on the website.

Bible Study Guide