The 2023 Assembly of the Southeastern Minnesota Synod gathered on Saturday, May 6, in Mankato. A total of 350 voting members, six voice-without-vote members, and 13 visitors were present. The theme of Flourish was present from beginning to end! The keynote speaker this year was Dr. Susan Brower, the Minnesota State Demographer. She shared great information and insight regarding the changes we are seeing in the population of the region and state.
Synod business was handled throughout the day, including the adoption of the 2024-25 spending plan and the election of all those nominated for council and committee positions. We heard reports from Bishop Hassanally, Synod Vice President Lisa Dierks, Treasurer Jeff Chestnut, and Secretary Rev. Josh Enderson. ELCA Churchwide Representative Rev. Kimberly Vaughn shared a report and a video message from Presiding Bishop Elizabeth Eaton.
As the event neared completion, it was announced that there was a small pothos plant ready for each congregation to take home with them. Propagated from the same mother plant by Rev. Emily Carson, 165 plants were ready to join each and every congregation, as a reminder of our call to flourish.
