July 14, 2010

It seems most people know by now that the ELW as we know it is going to be put to rest. The reaction to this news has been varied.

Some of you wondered just how this organization has been able to stay afloat till now. Some have recognized the struggle of running an organization which has been cutting and cutting from all edges for years. Others have expressed surprise at this decision and were unaware of the situation. And others are very angry about this decision.

We all process our grief in various ways and we are grieving. It is difficult to let go of something that has offered comfort, spiritual nourishment, joy, laughter and a safe place to weep. But my personal hope is that most of the relational ministry will continue where you are at.

We, in the office are also grieving. The decisions to make cuts in programing over the years hurt us. We would really have preferred to be offering a grand variety of programming opportunities. We had dreams as to what this organization could be. We also grieve the loss of co-workers and shared ministry. Catherine is no longer working for ELW and has moved on to other work endeavors. It hurts to not have her bubbly spirit here in the office. Gerlinde, Catherine and I have shared our days together for years. It was lovingly stated that we are not just co-workers, we are family.

Some changes will take place with no formal ELW, but I suspect that many of you will continue to nurture faith, respond to the world around you, mentor others and continue to study the Bible. I urge you to grieve,  lay aside any anger, and know that God is working amongst us all and touching us with a loving nudge to keep on being the Christ-centered women we are.

May God continue to bless you!

Ruth Magnuson
Executive Director