Recorded Zoom Gatherings

The call process is the transition of a rostered minister into service with a congregation(s). In this recording, the synod staff walks through each step of the process and share how every transition is unique. This summit was open to anyone interested in learning more. Whether your congregation is currently in the call process or […]

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

Synod Listening Session Recap Last year, the Southwestern Minnesota Synod listened. Through a survey and listening sessions we heard what excites, concerns, and inspires you. We invite you to hear the results of the listening process via a Zoom recording. The recording is from Thursday, March 27, 2025. Click here to view the written summary. 

Zoom Gathering Recording From March 18, 2025 Hospitality is a part of our Christian lives and a significant part of the life of our congregation’s worship experience. We all want our congregation to be the most hospitable, but what makes us welcoming? How do we prepare to welcome guest worship leaders and preachers? How can

Rev. Dr. Jan Schnell writes and speaks about “Agapic Anger.” If anger is defined as a response to the violation of a value, then “agapic anger” occurs when one feels their values or the things they love have been violated. A person can shape their response through love into something that does good for one’s

Cultural Humility by Rev. Dr. Aaron Suomala Folkerds We are living in a divisive world where it can sometimes be challenging to get along with those around you.  Cultural humility is a tool that can cut through the division and works to create genuine connection with others.  Cultural humility is about having a deep reverence

The Commission for a Renewed Lutheran Church invited the SW MN Synod to a one hour listening session. Leaders from the commission offered a presentation on the Commission’s charge and current work followed by questions and open listening. Recorded Zoom Gatherings:  Session for Rostered Ministers (4/9/2024) Session for Lay Leaders (4/9/2024) Commission for a Renewed

Hospitality is part of our Christian call to discipleship. Listen and consider what the Bible says about hospitality as well as how we live out Christian hospitality in the real-life situations we encounter in our congregations and personal lives. Zoom Gathering Recording:  7:00 p.m. – Session for Lay Leaders

No matter where congregations are located, no matter the size, congregation leaders are aware that we need to plan for the safety and security of the people who come through our doors, staff and worshipers. Retired Kenyon Police Chief Lee Sjolander provides training to help you make plans to develop your own safety & security

We’ve all been in situations where people have different expectations of each other; unclear and crossed-up expectations can lead to frustration. This is especially true in the church where relationships and expectations can take us into murky waters. Bishop Dee and Synod Staff provide some best practices and principles for Rostered Ministers, Staff, and Congregation