Synod Assembly Reflections

by the Rev. Darrel Peterson

As the bishop and the event planner take deep breaths, we can report that another ELCA Southeastern Synod assembly has concluded. The participants in this weekend event have scattered to their communities and congregations in our four state synod. Reports of actions taken are being prepared and next steps are being anticipated.

So, what has been accomplished? Is the world and the church better for the event that has transpired? Have the attendees and the ministries benefited from our time together? Significant energy and money were expended to make it all happen.
Each year, someone suggests to me that perhaps we should move to a biennial assembly, with the possibility of gathering in the off year for some sort of ministry building / educational event. Others suggest we should just meet once every two years and conserve the funds.

I am of the opinion that it is important for our synod to gather annually. We are not the kind of synod, such as South Carolina, where we can host an event that folks can drive to in a couple of hours. Connectedness is important for us. It is important for our rostered leaders and congregational leaders to regularly gather and to renew ties.

I think that the most important aspect of our recent assembly was the worship. All three services were different. All three were well-prepared and inspirational in varied ways. Just as congregations come together weekly for worship, our worship together is the “glue” that binds us together. Also, this well-prepared and varied worship models meaningful worship for our congregations.

Secondly, I believe our assembly evidenced a sincere and gentle spirit. There was a positive climate where people could speak and respectfully be heard. There were no angry outbursts, Bibles being waved, yet there was room for passionate conviction.
The synod assembly provided for contact with a churchwide representative and a companion synod leader. Shared ministries like Lutheranch, campus and youth ministries were evidenced positively.

And then there are all the conversations and contacts that take place during the assembly and over meals and beverages These are the joys and grist of life and ministry!

My biggest concern in the wake of the assembly is that the stories of mission be told and interpreted in the congregations back home. Pastors need to intentionally tell of our shared work together. Whether voting members are congregational leaders or just someone who was willing to go, it is critical that the folks hear about Pastor Amanda Olson- Castillo and our shared mission in Guatemala. They need to hear about what is happening on our college and university campuses in campus ministry. They need to hear about the four Bible Studies that were shared. They need to hear about the collaborative possibilities for doing ministry together.
Was the assembly worth it? It has happened. I live in hope that our time together will bear fruit.