Bishop’s Reflection for Holy Week Rejoice greatly, O daughter Zion! Shout aloud, O daughter Jerusalem! See, your king comes to you; triumphant and victorious is he, humble and riding on a donkey, on a colt, the foal of a donkey. – Zechariah 9:9, NRSVUE When the gospel writers tell the story of Jesus’ entry into […]
Bishop’s Reflection for Holy Week Read More »
A Sermon for the Sunday after Easter, April 12, is available to congregations. This sermon by Synod Minister Heather Culuris can be read (Download a PDF format) or shared by video. There are no bulletins or hymn suggestions paired with this sermon. Our prayers are with you as we journey through Lent and celebrate Christ’s resurrection.
Sermon for the Sunday after Easter Read More »
Remembering our History to Shape our Present and our Future as Congregations +Pr. Heather Culuris In 1 Corinthians, Chapter 4, we read: “Think of us in this way: as servants of Christ and stewards of God’s mysteries. Moreover, it is required of stewards that they be found trustworthy.” Also in 1 Peter, Chapter 4, we read: “Like good stewards of the manifold
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Rural churches have always been more than buildings, they have been the spiritual, social, and relational heart of their communities. Yet today, many rural congregations find themselves asking hard questions about sustainability, relevance, and mission in changing contexts. This Recording from March 5, 2026 was an interactive training, based on Fresh Expressions of the Rural
Zoom Recording: Fresh Expressions of the Rural Church, with Michael Adam Beck Read More »
“so we, though many, are one body in Christ, and individually members one of another.” -Romans 12:5 February Synod Staff Recap “What do synod staff people do? Where do you go?” That’s a question we hear every so often, and beginning this month, we’re not only going to tell you – we’re going to show
Synod Map – Pastoral Staff Read More »
The Capital Appeal is underway! We are committed to remaining “rooted in Redwood” – centrally located, where our ground touches every part of the open country, cities, and smalls towns of this synod. This place reflects our ties to creation, a deep legacy of faith, and a commitment to bring healing and hope to all.
“Rooted in Redwood” Capital Appeal and Renovation Update Read More »
Responding to the Unexpected in Worship Worship is the highlight of the week in many of our congregations. Psalm 122 says: “I was glad when they said to me, “Let us go to the house of the Lord!” We gather on Sundays, and also Wednesday evenings, to pray together, sing together, hear God’s word, receive Holy
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+Pr. Heather Culuris, Synod Minster At times as we are working with congregations and their leaders, questions are asked about how people prepare to be pastors to serve in the ELCA. Learning at seminary and the synod process to prepare pastors is called Candidacy. Below you will find a summary of that process that can
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We will not grow weary | Lutheran bishops condemn aggressive immigration activity The Rev. Yehiel Curry, presiding bishop of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America, and ELCA synod bishops from Minnesota offer a joint pastoral video message addressing immigration activity. The bishops acknowledge the uncertainty being experienced by many in Minnesota and in other parts
Joint pastoral video message: We will not grow weary Read More »
Updated on 1/7/2026. If you have additional information that is not listed below, please contact the synod office. CONFERENCE DATE TIME PLACE DEAN LAKELANDSunday, Feb 14:30: Registration, 5:00: Meal, 6:00~6:45: Business, 7:00: Short Closing WorshipGreen Lake Bible Camp (Water’s Edge Ministries)Pr. Steve MeierGREAT RIVERSunday, Feb 1Celebration, SartellPr. Stephanie ChristoffelsMN VALLEYSunday, Feb 151:00 PMSt Pauls, GaylordPr. Erik
2026 Conference Assemblies Read More »
