By John and Susan Osberg

John and Susan Osberg served as voting members from LCR at the 2023 ELCA Southeastern Synod Assembly (June 2-4). George O’Donnell, who is finishing his term on the Synod Council, and Pastor Ruth Hamilton also attended. Here are John and Susan’s reflections:

The Southeastern Synod of the ELCA, composed of congregations in Alabama, Georgia, Mississippi, and Tennessee, is vibrantly focused on being more relevant for today’s community, and on evolving to meet the ever-increasing needs and demands of our church community.

About 300 Lutheran leaders came together in Chattanooga this past weekend. Over 3 days many topics were discussed. Some examples:

• Our region is too often affected by disasters such as hurricanes, floods, and tornados. In response—through Lutheran Disaster Response and Inspiritus—the Synod is expanding its focus on, and resources dedicated to, helping our neighbors at these moments.
• The Synod’s growing youth focus is so important not just for the church’s future, but also for the church’s relevance and growth today. Numerous presentations focused on what we must do to meet our youths’ evolving needs and requirements. Specifically, the Synod is increasingly focused on inclusivity. All are welcome!
• Many of LCR’s past and present leaders are strongly involved with Synod programs and initiatives. The difficult, dedicated, and powerful work done by LCR’s Jerry and Elsie Weyrauch on suicide prevention continues as an important Synod ministry. The Weyrauchs’ past testimony before the U.S. Congress and other initiatives they successfully put in place (such as the nationwide 988 rescue call line) have clearly saved untold numbers of lives.
• The Guatemala ministry championed by so many at LCR members and by former LCR Pastor Stephen Friedrich was discussed and featured repeatedly.
• Gun violence, immigration, advocacy, and unhoused (homelessness) programs were also discussed. They all have related initiatives in the Southeastern Synod of the ELCA.

It was an honor to take part in the Assembly. It helped us to see the “big picture.” The worship services were all renewing and inspiring. Our hope, also, is that many others in our congregation will have the opportunity to participate in the future.

 

Watch highlights from the Synod Assembly, including worship and the report of Bishop Kevin Strickland, on the Synod Youtube Page.