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Title: ELCA Congregations Learn From Each Other ELCA NEWS SERVICE - NEWSBRIEF February 11, 1997 ELCA CONGREGATIONS LEARN FROM EACH OTHER Over 100 members of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America gathered Jan. 23-25 in Las Vegas for "New Ideas for a New Day," an evangelism "teaching congregation" conference sponsored by the ELCA's Division for Congregational Ministries. Pastors, associates in ministry and other lay leaders attended the conference to learn how their congregations can grow both "deep and wide," said the Rev. Richard M. Webb, associate director for evangelism. Selected "teaching congregations," noted in their communities for their effective ministries, service and growth, shared with conference participants their unique style for proclaiming the gospel. Through worship, guest speakers, workshops and plenary sessions, participants learned, firsthand, ways to organize, to prepare and empower leaders, and to grow both spiritually and numerically. "Congregations need to have a clear idea of who they are theologically ... what drives their ministry," said Webb. Four "teaching congregation" conferences are scheduled this spring for Salem, Ore.; Ashland, Ohio; Chicago and Dallas. For information contact: Ann Hafften, Director (773) 380-2958 or [log in to unmask] http://www.elca.org/co/news/current.html