Partners in Mission

The Partners in Mission Designated Offering Program at Grace is one of the ways that we are Reaching Out in Christ's Love. Each month, we pass the plate for an organization that aligns with our Mission, and about whose mission our members and friends feel passionately. Our impact is doubled thanks to the Grace Foundation, who match every gift dollar for dollar, up to $2,000/month.

October 2025: Kutandara

Over the past three years, Grace Lutheran Church has supported Kutandara through the Partners in Mission program, helping to sustain meaningful cultural exchange and community-building through music. With these generous gifts, Kutandara has continued its work in Zimbabwe—preserving traditional music and dance, and creating opportunities for young people and their mentors to connect across divides. Programs like the Friendship Festival have brought together groups who might never otherwise meet, fostering collaboration rather than competition, and strengthening the bonds of community.

 

In today’s world—where isolation, division, and uncertainty are all too common—the power of connection is more vital than ever. Kutandara believes in music not just as art, but as a force for unity, healing, and resilience. The support from Grace Lutheran has helped amplify this belief, enabling artists in both Zimbabwe and Boulder to build bridges across cultures and rise together through shared creativity and purpose.

 

 Ongoing support helps sustain programs that build cross-cultural understanding, empower young people, and preserve the rich musical heritage of Zimbabwe. Especially in times like these, when connection and compassion are so deeply needed, this partnership stands as a powerful example of how communities—separated by geography but united in purpose—can rise together. #TogetherWeRise

 

Read more at kutandara.org.

September 2025: Bread + Belonging

"Bread + Belonging" is a ministry at CU Boulder run by the Lutheran Campus Ministry and St. Aidan's Episcopal Church. It provides a weekly free dinner and community space for students every Tuesday evening. The ministry aims to create a welcoming and inclusive environment where students can explore their faith, develop leadership skills, and find a sense of belonging.

 

Partnership:

Bread + Belonging is a collaborative effort between Lutheran Campus Ministry and St. Aidan's Episcopal Church. 

 

Weekly Dinner:

The core activity is a weekly free dinner held every Tuesday evening, offering a space for students to connect, share a meal, and engage in conversation. 

 

Inclusivity:

The ministry emphasizes inclusivity and welcomes students of all backgrounds, including those who identify as LGBTQ+. 

 

Spiritual Exploration:

Bread + Belonging provides opportunities for students to explore their faith, participate in worship, and engage in service within the CU Boulder community and beyond. 

 

Community Building:

It fosters a sense of belonging and connection among students through shared meals, conversations, and various activities. 

 

Leadership Development:

The ministry also offers opportunities for students to develop leadership skills within the context of faith and community. 

August 2025: Himalayan Development Foundation

Mr. Karma Sherpa started the Himalayan Development Foundation with a focus on helping those in rural areas in the Khumbu region of Nepal.

 

Karma was born and raised in the small village of Cherlemu growing up in poverty. He now lives in Superior, Colorado, and uses the Foundation to help those in need in his home country, especially with access to care through a periodic medical clinic. Access to medical care and vaccines is only available in large cities like Kathmandu; many remote villages do not have roads...much less transportation. People must walk.

 

During the pandemic, folks in Khumbu lost jobs and income due to a lack of tourists, and the medical clinic was on hold. The clinic was resumed two years ago at the monastery in Taksindu where residents were treated free of charge.

 

The clinic will be on the Monastery grounds in early November for 4 to 5 days. The need has grown, and they plan to utilize Nepalese physicians, nurses, and volunteers again.

July 2025: New Beginnings Worshipping Community

New Beginnings Worshipping Community is a Lutheran mission church that holds regular in-person worship services inside Denver Women's Correctional Facility for all who wish to join. Their community includes pastors, Inside Council, Outside Council, volunteers, and residents.

 

Their mission is to restore shattered lives to wholeness through the love of Jesus Christ.

 

Read more at www.newbeginningswc.org.



Below are the organizations we have contributed to over the past several years through our designated PiM Offering.