Reflections from Synod: Shared Challenges, Shared Strength

By George O’Donnell

Thank you for the honor and privilege of representing LCR at the 2025 Synod Assembly. We were very impressed with the common concerns and opportunities that were shared by the many speakers and other delegates in both formal presentations and casual conversations over the three days of the Assembly. We definitely felt that our congregation is not alone in the issues that face us going forward and that we may be better positioned than most.

By now, you have probably heard that Bishop Strickland was re-elected for another six-year term as Bishop of the Southeast Synod. Among other elections Pastor Ruth Hamilton, who recently served LCR as Interim Pastor, was elected as Secretary of the Southeast Synod.

We also heard moving and challenging presentations from a variety of guest speakers and attended informative breakout sessions on congregation management and fund raising.

Each day was highlighted with a worship service that was especially moving.

A full recap of all activities and votes is available via this link.