Unique to this first-time event, each of the three days of Synod Gathering included two and a half hours each day to attend your choice of workshops and interactive discussions around an array of compelling topics. Some filled the entire time for intensive learning; others allowed for a 60-minute overview of topics. Topics ranged from […]
Although we had expected Presiding Bishop Elizabeth Eaton to join us for our gathering, preach at the opening worship, and share the churchwide report with us, her plans changed about 48 hours before the gathering and Pastor Sara Cutter, Senior Director for Operational Effectiveness in the Christian Community and Leadership Home Area of the ELCA […]
St. Andrew’s Lutheran Church, Hickory, was again the host for Synod Gathering Worship on Friday evening, once more an occasion for celebration. Rostered ministers—pastors and deacons—serving in Specialized Pastor Care calls (chaplains, military chaplains, pastoral counseling, and clinical education) were robed and joined in the procession. Pastor Lucille “CeCee” Mills, assistant to the bishop, preached […]
Dr. Jacqueline Bussie, award-winning author, professor, and theologian was the keynote speaker for Synod Gathering—finally able to journey to the NC Synod for this event which was postponed from 2020. Bussie delivered two addresses as well as offered several book-signing opportunities over the course of the three days. Her most recent book, Love Without Limits […]
During his address to Synod Gathering on Friday, June 4, Bishop Tim Smith issued a bold challenge to the congregations of the North Carolina Synod (NC Synod): that 70% of the synod’s 197 congregations—138 congregations—will actively engage in resettlement over the next 18 months. We are called as the NC Synod to do this work, […]
The 2022 Synod Gathering began with a stirring worship at St. Andrew’s Lutheran Church, Hickory, celebrating the 50th (plus two!) Anniversary of the Ordination of Women. The joy of gathering in person for worship after a two-year COVID-19 hiatus was palpable and the gifts of women were showing at every turn. Rostered women—pastors and deacons—processed, […]
NC Synod Vice President Diana Haywood writes: In July, native siblings throughout the ELCA invited churches to drape an orange cloth in an act of holy remembering—remembering native children killed in the boarding school movement. They shared: In honor and memory of the children of the First Nations people and of our Native children who […]
Celebrations have been abundant this spring. Several rostered ministers of the NC Synod have been recognized with extraordinary honors; thanks be to God! The Rev. Jack Russell, pastor of Living Waters, Cherokee, received an honorary doctorate from Lenoir-Rhyne University, Hickory campus, at their commencement on Friday, May 6, in recognition of his faithful work as […]
The first-ever Synod Gathering is happening this year, June 2-4, at Lenoir-Rhyne University! Our Synod Gathering keynote speaker, Jacqueline Bussie—author, professor, and theologian—will present “Three Rules Christians Should Break” on Thursday and “Love Without Limits” (from her book by the same name) on Friday. Be sure to bring your own copy to Synod Gathering for […]
Synod Gathering is about reuniting, worshiping, and learning with each other after such a long period of physical separation. The registration deadline is May 16! After registering, you will receive a link to choose which learning opportunities you would like to attend. View the growing list of choices including, The Birth of Mirth: Laughter Is Good Medicine!; Introduction […]