“All Anew” is the theme for Women of the ELCA’s Tenth Triennial Gathering in Minneapolis, Minn., July 13-16, 2017. The theme is supported by several biblical texts that speak of renewal.
The logo (at right) is in the joyful, organic shape of a butterfly—or is it a flower? It represents transformation and growth. Splashes of color honoring the four elements (earth, water, fire, air) spill outside the lines to create an uplifting symbol that is bright, bold and vibrant. You can download a poster with the logo here.
Because the Tenth Triennial Gathering falls during the observance of the 500th anniversary of the Protestant Reformation in 2017, the theme resonates with reformation and transformation images. At the gathering, participants will explore ways in which the Holy Spirit changes us, acknowledging that reformation and transformation have happened and continue to happen within the community of women known as Women of the ELCA.
One theme verse, Psalm 104:30: “Lord, send forth your spirit…and renew the face of the earth” calls on God to send the Holy Spirit to renew not just God’s people, not just God’s church—but all God’s earth, the creation that God called good.
In addition to Psalm 104:30, other supporting theme verses include:
Romans 12:2: … Be transformed by the renewing of your minds. …You’ll be changed from the inside out.
2 Corinthians 4:16: …Though our outer nature is wasting away, our inner nature is being renewed day by day. …
Titus 3:4-5: … [God] gave us a good bath, and we came out of it new people, washed inside and out by the Holy Spirit.
Isaiah 43:19: I am about to do a new thing; now it springs forth, do you not perceive it? I will make a way in the wilderness and rivers in the desert.
Information about triennial gatherings can be found at welcatg.org. Speakers and workshops will be added as we know them.