2025 ELCA Churchwide Assembly The 2025 ELCA Churchwide Assembly will be held July 28–Aug. 2, 2025, at the Phoenix Convention Center in Phoenix, Ariz. The ELCA Churchwide Assembly, the primary decision-making body of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America, is a process of communal spiritual discernment. When the ELCA Churchwide Assembly convenes, its voting members […]
A discernment retreat hosted by the ELCA synods of Region 3 in the states of Minnesota, North Dakota, and South Dakota Wondering what’s next? Wondering if God is calling you to something different? Wondering if there’s “something more”? Explore these and other questions in the context of our faith, with other wonderers through storytelling, introspection, […]
The visit to the Lower Sioux Agency Historic Site for August 20th has been postponed to a later date. All are welcome to join the Southwestern Minnesota Synod staff on August 20th at 9:30 am for a morning of learning and conversation at the Lower Sioux Agency Historic Site. Rev. John Robertson, historic site manager […]
Portico Benefit Services - Employee benefits for congregations and faith-based organizations. Annual Enrollment season is on the horizon. With new health benefit options for 2026, we strongly encourage all ELCA-Primary health benefit members to explore their choices to identify the health benefit option best suited for themselves and their dependents. Sign in https://portico.ws/2026AEResources to learn […]
Location: Luther Crest Bible Camp, Alexandria MN Theme: Our Hands Together Registration Link: https://form.jotform.com/232528166747161 Click here to view and download the event flyer for more information.
The visit to the Lower Sioux Agency Historic Site for August 20th has been postponed to a later date. However, Pr. Troy Pflibsen has planned another outing to the Jeffers Petroglyphs in rural Comfrey MN. All are welcome to join the Southwestern Minnesota Synod Staff for learning and relationship building with our Native American sisters […]
For Professionals & Volunteers working with Children, Youth & Family Ministry This 90-minute workshop, led by Rev. Emily Carson, Assistant to the Bishop & Director for Evangelical Mission in the Southeastern Minnesota Synod, is designed for volunteers and professionals engaged in faith formation and ministry with children, youth, and families. In addition, we will be […]
Location: Little Crow Resort & Conference, Spicer MN Oct. 5th, Sunday Evening - Oct. 7th, Tuesday Afternoon Click here to view and download the conference schedule. Finding God’s Mission in a Fractured Society Respected Biblical scholar Professor Mark Allan Powell is the keynote speaker of this year's conference. Using our Lutheran Biblical perspective, he will […]
A discernment retreat hosted by the ELCA synods of Region 3 in the states of Minnesota, North Dakota, and South Dakota Wondering what’s next? Wondering if God is calling you to something different? Wondering if there’s “something more”? Explore these and other questions in the context of our faith, with other wonderers through storytelling, introspection, […]
The 2025 Equipping Congregations Day has been cancelled due to low registration numbers. We are grateful to Pr. Todd Buegler, the Synod Youth Band, and the Workshop Presenters who have planned and prepared for this day. We are working to host future Zoom gatherings or capture recordings on topics of the ECD sessions. Please stay […]
Beginning January 1, 2026, Minnesota will launch its statewide Paid Family and Medical Leave program, which provides eligible employees with paid time off for medical and family-related needs. As a reminder to congregation leaders and staff, and to assist in preparing for this transition, Tammy Schacher lead a Zoom gathering. This Zoom gathering was recorded […]
Location: Willmar Conference Center & Best Western Plus/Holiday Inn Express, Willmar MN Dates: This year, we are again only offering ONE date option for the JH Gathering: Friday, November 21 – Saturday, November 22, 2025 2025 theme: “Strengthened by Faith,” based on Isaiah 41:10. Gathering Info: Registration is open! Click here to register. Click the […]
