The Virginia Synod, ELCA | October 27, 2026

Celebrating with the South Carolina Synod

On Saturday, October 24, Bishop Phyllis Milton represented the Virginia Synod and took part in the installation service for Bishop Wade Roof of the South Carolina Synod.

We give thanks for our Region 9 neighbors and celebrate with them as Bishop Roof begins this new chapter of ministry. Please pray for Bishop Roof and the South Carolina Synod!

Celebrating Reformation Sunday across the Virginia Synod

Virginia synod congregations are invited to share stories or photos from your Reformation Sunday worship services or activities. Selected photos may be featured in synod communications, including social media, newsletters, and publications.

Photos can be submitted through this form, by emailing them to hess@vasynod.org or by tagging @virginiasynod or @Virginia Synod - ELCA in your social media posts so we receive a notification and can share your photos with the synod. Please submit your stories and photos by Tuesday, November 3.

Register for an upcoming EPIC Online Workshop

The Virginia Synod’s EPIC workshop series offers monthly Zoom workshops designed to support the ministry of local congregations. The next workshop is:

• November 16 at 7 PM: Treasurer's Workshop - End of Year Preparations - Led by John Krallman and Pastor John Wertz, Jr. (Registration closes November 11)

The workshop is free. Use the link above to register and receive the correct Zoom link.

Missed a previous workshop?

Recordings of past EPIC Online workshops are being added to the Virginia Synod’s YouTube channel in the EPIC Online 2026 playlist. One recording is available now, with more to come!

Advent Resources:

With Advent just around the corner, now is the time to explore resources you can use at home or in your congregation. Explore a list of resources below.

Register today for Lost & Found!

Register today for Lost & Found, our annual middle school faith formation event for 7th & 8th graders at Eagle Eyrie in Lynchburg.

New this year! We’re excited to offer a new online registration process for synod youth and young adult events. Please read the registration instructions packet to walk you through the new online registration process. Please note that registration will close next Wednesday, November 4, 2026.

Please note: youth participant registration is complete when BOTH the online registration form and the permissions and medical form are submitted.

If you have any questions, please contact Tina Toburen, toburen@vasynod.org.

Celebrate 50 Years of Ordination for the Rev. Dr. Jean Bozeman

Join in celebrating the Rev. Dr. Jean Bozeman, the first woman ordained in the Virginia Synod, as she marks 50 years of ordained ministry! A special reception will be held Sunday, November 15, at First Lutheran Church in Norfolk.

For those who will vest and process, the color of the day is red. A group photo will take place in Strickler Hall at 9:15am.

As part of the celebration, a card shower is being organized in Jean’s honor. Send cards, notes of appreciation, or favorite memories to:

First Lutheran Church

℅ Jean Bozeman Card Shower

1301 Colley Ave

Norfolk, VA 23517

Please ensure that all cards are postmarked by October 31.

Questions? Please contact Pastor Cathy Mims (cmims@flcnorfolk.com or 757.625.1953).

Advent Awakening Amid Christian Nationalism: Whose Kingdom Comes?

Join ELCA Witness & Society for Advent Awakening Amid Christian Nationalism: Whose Kingdom Comes? on December 4-5, 2026, at Lutheran Church of the Reformation in Washington, D.C. The gathering begins Friday evening with Revival Worship led by ELCA Presiding Bishop Yehiel Curry, followed by a Saturday of learning and equipping featuring keynote speaker the Rev. Angela Denker and a panel of leaders exploring how we live out our faith as disciples amid Christian nationalism. Some portions will be streamed on the ELCA Advocacy YouTube channel.

Learn More about Mission Investment Fund

A Financial Ministry of the ELCA

Every dollar invested with the Mission Investment Fund (MIF) helps provide loans that support ELCA ministries, including congregations, food pantries, senior centers, preschools, and more. The more people who invest, the more ministries MIF can support! Explore resources to help you share the mission of MIF with your congregation through worship, newsletters, bulletins, or council meetings.

Applications Open for YAGM

Young adults are invited to apply for a year of international accompaniment in one of Young Adults in Global Mission (YAGM) program countries. Walk alongside our global companions and share in the ministries of partner churches and organizations. Applicants must be U.S. citizens ages 21-35. Learn more and apply.

Not a young adult? No problem! You can support a 2026-27 YAGM volunteer who is getting ready to start their year of service. Visit their fundraising page to read their stories, see where they’re headed and make a financial contribution.

Nominate Students for Lutheran Summer Music

You’re invited to nominate a student for LSM 2027! Lutheran Summer Music (LSM) is a faith-based residential music academy for high school students in grades 8-12. Students come together from across the country to pursue musical excellence and build an intentional, supportive, and fun community.

LSM 2027 takes place at St. Olaf College in Northfield, MN, from June 27-July 25. Priority Enrollment is open through December 1, offering a $100 tuition discount and first access to financial aid. Nominate students at LSMacademy.org/nominate, and watch and share the LSM Experience Video to learn more!

Stay Connected with

the Virginia Synod:

Click here to view this email as a webpage.