We are Church Together

We are church together. From small congregations on the prairie to large congregations in urban centers (and everything in between), we come together as the Southwestern Minnesota Synod.

Connect

SW MN Synod ELCA is here for you.

Equipping Congregations

Walking with congregations in the call process, providing resources, and strengthening ministries.

Supporting Rostered Ministers

Helping rostered ministers consider calls and strengthen leadership.

Supporting Youth and Family Leaders

Supporting congregation leaders who work with children, youth and family ministries.

Who We
Are

Ministry
Partners

Synod
Governance

Worship
Supply

Congregations
& Ministers

Upcoming Events

21 November

Junior High Youth Gathering

All day

22 February

Discerning Your Call: Exploring the Next Faithful Step

2:00 pm - 8:00 pm

Click here to find more upcoming events.

Latest News

MN Paid Leave

November 6, 2025

Celebrating $1 Million

November 6, 2025

Where do you see neighbors in need? What can you do?

October 29, 2025

2025 Synod Assembly

Messages

Oct 29

Where do you see neighbors in need? What can you do?

+Bishop Dee Pederson As I drive across the miles of farmland in our synod, familiar Thanksgiving hymns…

Oct 09

Answering the call – Yehiel Curry is installed as ELCA presiding bishop

By John Potter October 5, 2025 +LivingLutheran When Yehiel Curry was installed as presiding bishop of the ELCA…

Sep 05

Bishop’s Reflections

Children are a gift from the Lord; they are a real blessing. – Psalm 127:3 (GNT) This…

Are you discerning God’s call?

Take a moment to consider: What is God calling you to? God’s call comes to us in wide and varied forms — teaching youth, serving on a board or committee within your congregation, or even leading worship as a lay leader. Others may feel God is calling them to further learning and become ordained as a minister of Word and Sacrament (pastor) or a minister of Word and Service (Deacon).

If you are hearing God’s call, please reach out to Pastor Heather Culuris at the synod office. We would love to hear how God is calling you and help you along your vocation journey!

Meet With Us

SW MN Synod ELCA
Can Help With the Call Process

If you are a Rostered Minister seeking a call or a congregation seeking a Minister, Synod staff can help. Synod staff walks with you through the ELCA congregational Call Process. Synod and ELCA resources are abundant — listening, consulting, guiding, training, and equipping to navigate transitions.

Meet with Staff

The SW MN Synod staff will walk with you through the entire call process, connecting you with helpful resources.

Discover

Receive the congregational support or help discerning your call that you need. Learn best practices in the call process.

Serve God's Word in the World

Accept a call or welcome a new rostered minister and know the joy of serving neighbors together.

Call Process

Thank You for your
Financial Support!

Make a donation, pay for an event, or set up online giving for your congregation. Visit the SW MN Synod online giving page.

Give Online

Stay Connected

Connect to the synod, get current news and information on upcoming events, and receive resources of the larger church. Sign up for the SW MN Synod E-news.