Here are some podcasts, programs, and helpful resources that are worth checking out in December. Podcasts and programs often have a "subscribe" option so that you can get new episodes as soon as they are released.
- DECEMBER'S FEATURED PODCAST: This episode of the "Essentially Translatable" podcast from Lutheran Bible Translators, with Rev. Rich Rudowske and co-host Emily Wilson. Emily works in the prayer working group for Lutheran Bible Translators and acts as the prayer point person for the illumiNations collective impact alliance. She shares valuable insight into why prayer is transformative to our lives and is exceedingly pleasing to God. The discussion highlights prayer-centered initiatives taking place within the organization, as well as the possibilities for those who would like to receive resources to pray alongside the organization. For Giving Tuesday 2023 we are raising prayer instead of focusing on financial gifts. If you would like to join us in raising 2 million yearly prayers, sign up HERE>> to become a Prayer Partner and join a global community of supporters!
You can find - and listen to - more episodes of "Essentially Translatable" HERE>> - DECEMBER'S FEATURED RESOURCE: This e-book on Suicide Prevention and Awareness from Spiritual First Aid and Better Samaritan (download it HERE>>). Yes, Suicide Prevention Month is September, but the month of December can be full of sadness and depression for lots of folks, too, especially if they've lost a loved one in the past year. In their introduction, the authors of this e-book say "We are in a mental health crisis, and more people are turning to the church for mental health care. . . . We’ve put together this e-book to help your congregation effectively serve those who need care because of suicidal tendencies in themselves or those they care about. Those at risk of suicide may be hidden in your church, but rest assured, they need ministry…and that starts with learning and listening. In the following pages, we share insights from experts and those with lived experience. We also share helpful, practical strategies you can use in your church to come alongside people who may be contemplating suicide–as well as those who love them." Extra note: Pastor Cahill has completed the Mental Health First Aid course (page 12 in the eBook) and the LivingWorks Faith course (page 13 in the eBook) as well as the Living Works ASIST (Applied Suicide Intervention Training) course (not listed in the eBook)
- DECEMBER'S FEATURED ARTIST: Lisa Wilding is an artist, photographer, and graphic designer who lives in Wooster and attends Christ the King's 10:45 am worship services. She is a member of Zion Lutheran Church in Lorain. Recently Lisa's work was included in a display of commissioned artwork at Patriots Park in downtown Amherst, Ohio, honoring US veterans. The last picture in this gallery shows Lisa next to the work she was commissioned to do for this display by the family of the service men pictured. The pictures will remain on this wall until Veterans' Day, 2024. You can see more of Lisa's work at her website HERE>>