Dear Faith Leaders,

In these challenging times, many of us feel a heaviness in our souls. Yet, we often overlook the power of lament to deepen our faith and ease our pain. On Wednesday, May 22, join us remotely via Zoom for an enriching one-hour session on lament with Rev. Brenda Smith and Deacon Tammy Devine. This session, part of the ELCA Coaching's Courageous Leadership series, will address both personal and corporate lament, offering insights on integrating lament into our ministry settings.

Rev. Brenda Smith and Deacon Tammy Devine have a rich history of facilitating meaningful conversations. Their previous workshop on Race Conversations, although impactful, saw waning interest, prompting them to explore new ministry focuses. They have identified four key topics: civility, compassion, lament, and race relations. Their vision is to foster transformation through dialogue and prayer on these themes, addressing societal challenges like anger, hatred, division, and blatant racism. They believe that faith communities, not just Christian, but all faith communities, must lead in promoting care and respect for one another.

Rev. Brenda Smith, "somewhat retired," has a diverse background as a pediatric nurse, Associate Professor of Nursing, parish pastor, and Program Director for Faith Practices at the ELCA Churchwide Office. Deacon Tammy Devine is dedicated to walking with God's people, facilitating personal and communal growth. She is a PCC Coach, End of Life Coach, Positive Intelligence Coach, and Boundless Compassion Facilitator, among other roles.

Commonly asked questions about these gatherings include:

Why are you still meeting? "Don't become too familiar with loneliness. Community is a risk, but liberation depends on the collective. Who can you trust to hold you?" — Cole Arthur Riley, author of Black Liturgies.

How can I prepare? Bring a spirit of curiosity and openness. Pay attention, listen actively, and notice where the Spirit is moving. How are you being invited to participate in God's work beyond the church walls?

What if I'm not a group person? Courageous leaders take calculated risks. Step outside your comfort zone and experience the loving, nurturing community these gatherings offer.

Join the Zoom meeting on May 22 at 11 am MST/PDT or noon MST. Meeting details are as follows:

Zoom Meeting Link: Join Here Meeting ID: 853 9447 6190 Passcode: 466634

For more information and to access recordings from prior gatherings, visit the ELCA Coaching website.