A few brief notes from the ELCA Synod Assembly

By Delberta Peterson
This years theme was We Are Church. We are church for the sake of the world.
There was lots of emphasis on mission support, the need to eradicate poverty and
hunger both here and elsewhere. World Hunger was one of the priorities.
(I recall that one time we (Niobrara Lutheran Church) decided to put one dollar aside
each week for 52 weeks for World Hunger. This year only two families are still
participating)
We are commissioned to Walk Together, Go and Tell and Be United in Christ.
Gods Work, Our Hands Sunday is Sept. 11. A suggestion was made to recognize our
fire departments and EMTs.
This year is the 500th Anniversary of the Reformation.
Topics for discussion were the death penalty (it costs 15 M per death penalty), the
Doctrine of Discovery (defeated).
Lutheran Women Organizations focus is on human trafficking. The Salvation Army
has received a grant to help in this area, (Norfolk Office) and will send someone out
to speak on this if we wish.
Each congregation was urged to encourage possible candidates to consider going
into the ministry. Some scholarships are available and efforts are being made to
make the process more manageable. In addition to ordained ministers, there are
opportunities for deaconess, word and service, rostered leaders, and deacons.
The Call Process has been updated (as we found out). It will take longer and there
are fewer candidates, so it is critical to ensure a strong match. Prayer is crucial and
strong transitional ministry will remain a priority.
We were encouraged to Take a breath-God has got this.
Materials on the table at the back of the church are for your information.
Thanks for the privilege of attending Synod Assembly.