NEWS & EVENTS

Recordings of the most recent worship services can be found by clicking here: be advised there were some “technical” issues with this post and we apologize for the inconvenience.

SECOND SUNDAY OF ADVENT

Dear Members & Friends of Gloria Dei Lutheran Church,

Following the vote at the November 10th meeting of our congregation, Florida Bahama Synod Council met and approved our request to enter into synod administration.

They also agreed to our request to delay formal enactment until January 1, enabling Gloria Dei to contract with Reverend Bill Friederich and resume worship services through the month of December.

Accordingly, volunteers cleaned and prepared the chancel.  Advent services began December 1 and will cease December 31.  A Christmas Eve service is scheduled at 4PM December 24. A service of Holy Closure will be held on Saturday January 18 at 2 PM.  All members and friends of Gloria Dei are invited to attend.

January 1, 2025 the Synod Council will assume responsibility for all decisions related to the property, its contents and the transition process.  Their goal will be to ensure an orderly transition.  The congregation of Gloria Dei will no longer be an active congregation.  Continued worship at Gloria Dei for any additional time is not feasible.

The Florida Bahama Synod Council has expressed a desire to partner with us in a consultative relationship.  Bishop Rose writes;

“Your ministry has touched many lives, and the Synod council remains committed to preserving and honoring your legacy through thoughtful stewardship and discernment.  This is most especially true as we look at what the next chapter looks like for the Lutheran expression in your community.”

The Bishop plans to interact directly with those members and friends wishing to stay involved in the formation of a new congregation.

In January we were warmly invited to attend and participate in worship at Redeemer Lutheran Church in Bradenton.  This congregation is dealing with similar issues affecting small congregations everywhere.  They look forward to getting to know us and to exploring future possibilities.  

We want to maintain the close bonds and support we have as a church family.  We can continue to worship together at Redeemer as we plan for a successful transition to a new congregation.

Yours in Christ,

Gloria Dei Congregation Council