Grace and peace to you all,
The Saint Paul Area Synod will be hosting a historic Assembly online this weekend. Through the use of technology, we will conduct a bishop election.
I say “we” because the Saint Paul Area Synod is not a separate entity but rather a larger expression of our church. The word “synod” means walking together. St. James joins 109 other congregation and new starts in making up our Synod. Along with 64 other synods around the country, together we are the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America. Our church has three interconnected expressions: St. James Lutheran Church (local), St. Paul Area Synod (regional), and the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America (national). At each level, people are called to serve as pastors, deacons, and leaders. Through elections and call processes, the church participates in the selection of those who serve the church.
Bishop Lull has served the St. Paul Area Synod for the last six years and will be standing for re-election to another six years. Over these years, on multiple occasions, St. James Lutheran has welcomed our bishop to preach, preside, and teach. I am grateful for her insight and leadership. Let us pray for her as the church meets this weekend to decide whether to extend her call for another six years.
Attending the first virtual Assembly from St. James Lutheran is President Birdie Olson, Secretary Lee Larson, Mark Lichtenberger (who was elected by the Synod last year to serve on Synod Council), and myself. We will have the responsibility of not only electing a bishop but also participating on a variety of resolutions relating to the life of the Synod. Please keep all those who are participating in your prayers this weekend. Join me in asking God’s Spirit to guide the Assembly in the way God would have us travel.
During these days of pandemic and great changes, the Church continues to walk together. Although the SPAS Assembly will be like none other, I am confident that it will be a time to celebrate and seek God’s presence among us.
In Christ’s Light,
Pastor Walt
p.s. Don’t forget…. on Sunday morning, 8 am Parking Lot and 9:30 Online, I will lead the second Teaching Worship on the Ten Commandments. If you missed part one - click on this video link…..