Welcome to the interim synod newsletter! While synod staff work behind the scenes on our communication strategy, we felt it was important to keep up regular communications from the synod.

At this gathering, we will have the opportunity to share our concerns and laments regarding the current struggles of our church. We will have a time of prayers of laments, we will practice the RESPECT guidelines during our conversations, and we will be spending some time together to begin a discerning process that can lead us to a call for transformative actions.

If you have questions or hesitations, please contact Rev. Walter Baires, Assistant to the Bishop and Director of Evangelical Mission, at walterb@scsw-elca.org.

Thank you to all who have completed the communication survey so far. If you haven't already done so, read all about it below, then click on the button to take the survey!

Part 1 asks about the kind of information from the synod you would find most useful and helpful. There are also a few questions about frequency of communication and where you are mostly likely to look for info from the synod.

Part 2 asks about your ministry! We know that the options included in this section can't possibly cover all of the good work you are doing in Jesus' name. Please view this as the beginning of a longer conversation and opening the door to greater collaboration amongst our synod congregations.

Part 3 is the shortest section and asks for your name and your congregation's name. This gives us a head start on making connections among congregations engaged in similar ministry. It also allows for easier follow up if we have questions or curiosities.

Thank you in advance for your time in completing this survey. The survey will remain open from now until Friday, June 24.

"Now is the Time" is a new study guide that helps congregations wrestle with the meaning of the "Declaration of the ELCA to People of African Descent."

All sessions will take place via Zoom. The first session was on May 23. The next session will be on Monday, June 20.

Click here for more information about the study, process, future gathering dates, and links to the participation guide and other study materials.

Synod youth are invited to attend the Synod Youth Retreat this summer at the Bethel Horizons Camp and Retreat Center in Dodgeville, Wis. This retreat is open to all youth going into 8^th-12^th grade across our South-Central Synod.

Invite friends! Invite family! You all are welcome. 

The special guest speaker for the weekend is Pastor Jenny Sung, who serves as a specialized “free-range pastor” in the ELCA. This means Pastor Sung spends her time preaching, speaking, writing, and coaching leaders how to heal through brave love and beloved community.

The retreat will include worship, campfire time, large and small group games, hands on service projects, and use of the adventure space at Bethel Horizons. Expect the unexpected as the Holy Spirit weaves through our time together inspiring friendships, faith, and camaraderie.

On-site lodging options include cabins or camping. If you prefer not to stay overnight, a commuting option is also available.

Click here for more information. Click the button below to register!

Applications will be accepted until June 24.

Click the button below for the 2024 Gathering website where you will find information about how to apply and can sign up to receive gNews, the Gathering email newsletter.