On January 29, I will travel with other pastors from the St. Paul Area Synod to Iringa, Tanzania to attend the Pamoja Summit, meeting our Tanzanian counterparts, teaching and learning. Our goal is to strengthen the church both here and in Iringa by sharing insights and experiences. We go as teachers and learners. We know that God will bless this mission and use it to bless the church.

St. James leadership was instrumental in establishing our companion synod relationship with Iringa. Today, congregational missions, guided by Dr. Ken and Birdie Olson, continue touching our hearts.

Last year, St. James was honored by the visit of Pastor Baraka MPonzi. Pastor shared the joy of the gospel as he preached and taught. We learned a great deal from this dedicated servant of Christ. The pastoral mission of Pastor MPonzi strengthened our partnership in Tanzania. I hope my pastoral mission does the same.

I go on this pastoral mission as a pilgrim. It is a sacred journey, walking closer with God and sisters and brothers in Christ. I pray that the Spirit will bless this mission, far from home, as relationships are nurtured within Christ’s church, both here and there.

Over the next three weeks, I will share how the Spirit is working in me as I prepare. You will have an opportunity to ask questions about our Tanzanian mission. Is there something you would like to know about how our brothers and sisters in Idunda live? All questions are fair game. Ask and I will try to find an answer. Who knows, I might even make a video.

On Annual Meeting Sunday, January 26, Pastor Nancy will share prayers of Godspeed. Following the 9:30 worship and before our Annual Meeting Potluck at 11:30, I’ll share a presentation about this Pastoral Mission.

While I’m away on my pilgrimage, daily prayers will be sent as emails to those who sign up. Printed copies will also be available. Please pray for me and my colleagues from the St. Paul Area Synod and the Iringa Diocese.

As we start a new decade, I am excited about God’s plan for the ELCA and the Lutheran church in Tanzania. This Pastoral Mission will continue building and deepening our relationships with God, each other, and our neighbors in Idunda.

Peace,

Pastor Walt