From Monday, July 17, through Thursday, July 20, rostered ministers of this church gathered for the 2023 ELCA Rostered Ministers Gathering in Phoenix, AZ—right in the middle of a heatwave with unprecedented temperatures. Several dozen NC Synod rostered ministers made the trek to Phoenix to experience fellowship, renewal, continuing education, worship, and Bible study with fabulous leaders all under the theme of “Rekindle the Gift within You.” Three NC Synod rostered ministers represented our synod particularly well: Dr. Mindy Makant, deacon and associate professor at Lenoir-Rhyne University, led a Bible study on Esther for those gathered, and Pastor Cassie Overcash (Grace, Thomasville) served on the planning team, while Pastor Sara Cutter, ELCA Senior Director of Operational Effectiveness chaired the planning time for the event. Additionally, two lay people from Morning Star, Matthews—Amelia Osborne and Tom Eure—led a workshop. Way to represent, NC Synod folks!

Find fun posts on the ELCA RM Gathering Facebook page. Or check out posts via the Gathering’s hashtag: #ELCARMG.