BEGIN:VCALENDAR VERSION:2.0 PRODID:-//Greater Milwaukee Synod ELCA - ECPv6.18.0//NONSGML v1.0//EN CALSCALE:GREGORIAN METHOD:PUBLISH X-ORIGINAL-URL:https://milwaukeesynod.org X-WR-CALDESC:Events for Greater Milwaukee Synod ELCA REFRESH-INTERVAL;VALUE=DURATION:PT1H X-Robots-Tag:noindex X-PUBLISHED-TTL:PT1H BEGIN:VTIMEZONE TZID:America/Chicago BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:-0600 TZOFFSETTO:-0500 TZNAME:CDT DTSTART:20230312T080000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:-0500 TZOFFSETTO:-0600 TZNAME:CST DTSTART:20231105T070000 END:STANDARD BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:-0600 TZOFFSETTO:-0500 TZNAME:CDT DTSTART:20240310T080000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:-0500 TZOFFSETTO:-0600 TZNAME:CST DTSTART:20241103T070000 END:STANDARD BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:-0600 TZOFFSETTO:-0500 TZNAME:CDT DTSTART:20250309T080000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:-0500 TZOFFSETTO:-0600 TZNAME:CST DTSTART:20251102T070000 END:STANDARD BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:-0600 TZOFFSETTO:-0500 TZNAME:CDT DTSTART:20260308T080000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:-0500 TZOFFSETTO:-0600 TZNAME:CST DTSTART:20261101T070000 END:STANDARD BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:-0600 TZOFFSETTO:-0500 TZNAME:CDT DTSTART:20270314T080000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:-0500 TZOFFSETTO:-0600 TZNAME:CST DTSTART:20271107T070000 END:STANDARD END:VTIMEZONE BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20261003T090000 DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20261003T150000 DTSTAMP:20260914T191934Z CREATED:20260320T170059Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260914T191934Z UID:10001559-1791018000-1791039600@milwaukeesynod.org SUMMARY:2026 All In Relational Ministry DESCRIPTION:2026 All In Relational Ministry\nRELATIONAL SKILLS for CROSS+GEN groups!\n October 3\n @\n9:00 am\n –\n3:00 pm \n\n$15 \n\n \n Holy Cross Lutheran Church \n \n\nW156 N8131 Pilgrim Road\n \n Menomonee Falls\,\n\n\n + Google Map \n\n \n 262-251-2740 \n \n\n \n \nOn behalf of the newly formed Synod Youth Team\, we’re inviting you to join us on June 13 for training in building relationships across generations. We especially encourage anyone who currently works with youth – staff or volunteers – and teens who have a passion for their faith – to join us for this event. We are bringing in the renowned Lyle Griner to help us as we begin a new season of youth and community ministry in the Greater Milwaukee Synod. \nWhat to Expect \n\n\nA group of all ages \n\n\nLearn to walk with others — and walk toward those who need connection \n\n\nPractice relational skills that deepen conversations and build trust \n\n\nNotice the moments where faith and everyday life meet \n\n\nBuild a culture where people feel seen\, heard\, and valued \n\nA casual atmosphere\n\nTentative Schedule9:00 AM – WHEAT9:45 AM – Faith Circled10:45 AM – Short Break11:00 AM – Hearing Hearts12:15 PM – Lunch1:00 PM – Difficult Choices2:00 PM – Spirit Nudges2:10 PM – Affirming2:30 PM – Come and See2:50 PM – Koosh Ball Pass3:00 PM – Wrap Up / Done! \n\n \n Event Details Flyer\nPlease register by Sunday\, September 27th. \n \n Register Now\n \nOur Presenter\nLyle Griner is the Creative Director for the Relational Leadership Collaborative. His work includes thirty years as the Peer Ministry Leadership National Director including fourteen years with The Youth & Family Institute. In addition\, Lyle has sixteen years of dynamic congregational youth ministry\, twelve years as a youth ministry volunteer at Mount Calvary Lutheran\, and five years leading the Wartburg Seminary and TYFI Certification School for youth and family ministry. He has authored numerous books and resources. Learn more about Lyle’s work and publications and read his bio. \n“I want every congregation’s youth ministry to be known for producing faith leaders. PML educates the heart with caring\, welcoming and affirming skills turning those wonderfully quirky\, sometimes overly silly\, rambunctious kids into amazing student leaders.” \n\n Lyle Griner URL:https://milwaukeesynod.org/event/all-in-relational-ministry/ LOCATION:Holy Cross Lutheran Church\, W156 N8131 Pilgrim Road\, Menomonee Falls ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/avif:https://milwaukeesynod.org/wp-content/uploads/Relational-Ministry-logo.avif ORGANIZER;CN="Greater Milwaukee Synod":MAILTO:gmsoffice@gmselca.org GEO:43.1712528;-88.1019562 X-APPLE-STRUCTURED-LOCATION;VALUE=URI;X-ADDRESS=Holy Cross Lutheran Church W156 N8131 Pilgrim Road Menomonee Falls;X-APPLE-RADIUS=500;X-TITLE=W156 N8131 Pilgrim Road:geo:-88.1019562,43.1712528 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260929T183000 DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260929T193000 DTSTAMP:20260910T195511Z CREATED:20260910T194052Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260910T195511Z UID:10001570-1790706600-1790710200@milwaukeesynod.org SUMMARY:Inspired for Mission DESCRIPTION:Inspired for Mission\n  \nJesusFit\n  \nTuesday\, September 29 @ 6:30 pm – 7:30 pm \n  \n“Can’t find the right church fit? GetJesusFit!” That’s an invitation to judgment-free churches in breweries and other cool spaces in Eau Claire. During this month’s Inspired for Mission Zoom conversation\, we’ll learn about JesusFit\, meet founder and director Bryan Willkom\, and wonder about what fresh expressions of church might be possible here in our Greater Milwaukee Synod. \nOnline Event \n  \nClick Here to Join Us on Zoom! \nVisit the JesusFit Website \n  URL:https://milwaukeesynod.org/event/inspired-for-mission/ LOCATION:Online Event CATEGORIES:Inspired for Mission ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://milwaukeesynod.org/wp-content/uploads/JesusFit-Inspired-For-Mission-Thumbnail-sept-2026.png ORGANIZER;CN="Greater Milwaukee Synod":MAILTO:gmsoffice@gmselca.org END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260921T183000 DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260921T203000 DTSTAMP:20260107T193500Z CREATED:20250923T232127Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260107T193500Z UID:10001534-1790015400-1790022600@milwaukeesynod.org SUMMARY:My Grandmother's Hands Discussion Group DESCRIPTION:My Grandmother’s Hands Discussion Group\nJanuary 19\n@\n6:30 pm\n–\n8:30 pm \n\nZoom – zoom links are emailed after registration \n \n  \n \nIt’s time! Many who attended our synod-wide book study on Resmaa Menakem’s\, “My Grandmother’s Hands” expressed the desire to have more time to unpack the deep and meaningful content of this book. So as promised\, in October\, Rev. Afi Dobbins-Mays will begin leading monthly sessions to discuss the book in more detail. This discussion is open to anyone who’s read the book and would like to participate. It will also be designed so that you can attend when able since it will take place over a 12-month period. \nJoin in every 3rd Monday of the month beginning October 20th from 6:30 p.m.- 8:30 p.m. \n\nRegister Now\n \nBook Discussion Dates\n2025 Dates \nOctober 20 \nNovember 17 \nDecember 15 \n2026 Dates \nJanuary 19 \nFebruary 16 \nMarch 16 \nApril 20 \nMay 18 \nJune 15 \nJuly 20 \nAugust 17 \nSeptember 21 URL:https://milwaukeesynod.org/event/my-grandmothers-hands-discussion-group/2026-09-21/ LOCATION:Zoom – zoom links are emailed after registration ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/avif:https://milwaukeesynod.org/wp-content/uploads/My-Grandmothers-Hands-cover-e1758668419478.avif ORGANIZER;CN="Greater Milwaukee Synod":MAILTO:gmsoffice@gmselca.org END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260529T160000 DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260530T160000 DTSTAMP:20260530T032923Z CREATED:20260112T212138Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260530T032923Z UID:10001548-1780070400-1780156800@milwaukeesynod.org SUMMARY:Synod Assembly 2026 DESCRIPTION:Synod Assembly 2026\n May 29\n @\n4:00 pm\n –\n May 30\n @\n4:00 pm \n\n \n Brookfield Conference Center \n \n\n325 South Moorland Road\n \n Brookfield\,\n WI\n 53005\n United States\n\n\n + Google Map \n \nRegistration for assembly has closed. You may register as a walk-in on Friday\, May 29 beginning at 2pm. Please note that we have turned in meal counts and we may not be able to provide a meal for you. \nAdditionally\, we are not able to accept any more display table requests and we cannot accommodate walk-in displays. \n \nImportant Dates\n\n\nApril 30\, 2026: Final day of early bird pricing   \n\n\nMay 1\, 2026: Registration prices increase  \n\n\nMay 15\, 2026: Cancellation deadline (cancellations after this date cannot be refunded) \n\n\nMay 15\, 2026 – Advance registration closes (including registrations with childcare) \n\n\n  \n2026 Registration Fees\n\n\nVoting Members/Non-voting members: $245 (early bird pricing – register by April 30)/$270 (standard pricing – register May 1 or later. \n\nRetired Rostered Ministers\, Youth\, Young Adults:$145 (early bird pricing – register by April 30)/$170 (standard pricing – register May 1 or later)\n\nSynod Assembly Guests\n\n\n Bishop Elias Kitoi Nasari – Global Companion from Tanzania\n \n Bishop of Meru Diocese in Tanzania \nBishop Elias Kitoi Nasari was born at Mulala Village in Meru\, and pursued his study in Theology at the then Makumira University College before being ordained to become a pastor in 1984 and served in various parishes in Meru and Northern Dioceses. \n  \nBishop Elias Kitoi Nasari became the District pastor of Meru before moving to the United States for Masters of Divinity and Sacred Theology Masters. He worked as a pastor in the United States for ten years\, in addition to being a Missionary between the Evangelical Lutheran Church in Tanzania (ELCT) and ELCA. This time helped forge a lasting relationship with Bishop Paul Erickson and the Greater Milwaukee Synod. He served as Assistant to the Bishop in Meru Diocese\, and later became Bishop of Meru Diocese of the ELCT in 2017.  \n  \nHis work focuses on community development\, including education and partnerships\, such as those with Kikatiti Secondary School. He has fostered strong relationships with international partners\, including congregations in Bavaria\, Germany.  \n\n\n\n Bishop Guadalupe Cortéz – Global Companion from El Salvador\n \nBishop of the Salvadoran Lutheran Church \nIn January 2025\, Bishop Guadalupe Cortéz was installed as church president and bishop of the Salvadoran Lutheran Church (Iglesia Luterana Salvadoreña or ILS) for a four-year term. She is the second bishop since the church’s founding\, and the first woman to hold the position. \n  \nBishop Guadalupe began working as a trainee in the church’s social services\, and subsequently as an evangelic catechist in the 1980s. From 2003 – 2007\, she studied theology at the Universidad Luterana Salvadoreña. Since 2010\, she has served as Diaconal Pastoral Coordinator of the ILS. She has previously served as pastor of New Esperanza Church in Nueva Concepción\, Chalatenango\, as well as vice president of the ILS. \n\n\n\n Rev. Christian Chavarría Ayala – Global Companion from El Salvador\n \nSalvadoran Lutheran Pastor and Artist \nRev. Christian Chavarría Ayala was born in 1976 in northern El Salvador. He survived the civil war of the 1980s and lived as a refugee with his family for seven years in the Mesa Grande camps in Honduras\, and later for three years as a refugee child (alone) in Sweden. He began painting at the age of eight\, turning his art into a personal form of healing from the traumas of war. He creates vibrant\, colorful wooden crosses in a traditional Salvadoran style. One of his most significant work is the two-meter-high cross “Lund Cross”\, he painted for the 2016 Joint Ecumenical Commemoration of the Reformation in Sweden\, attended by Pope Francis and leaders of the Lutheran World Federation. This cross is now permanently placed in the chapel of the Ecumenical Centre in Geneva\, Switzerland. His art has been traveling around the world to more than 136 countries and is held by world leaders\, Finland´s president\, Archbishop of Canterbury\, Pope Francis who was presented with one of his crosses in 2013. \n  \nHis art reflects Salvadoran cultural traditions from a Christian perspective\, expressing the martyred legacy of the Latin American churches\, as well as the reconciliation and hope of a suffering people. \n  \nAt twelve\, he encountered the Salvadoran Lutheran Church and was confirmed at thirteen. Since then\, he has served faithfully alongside Bishop Medardo Gómez. He studied theology at the Salvadoran Lutheran University and the Seminary of the Salvadoran Lutheran Synod. As a layperson\, he founded a new congregation in the mountains of San Vicente in 2012. In August 2019\, he was ordained as Presbyter of the Salvadoran Lutheran Church. \n  \nSince 2022\, Rev. Chavarría has served as Coordinator of the Sister Churches Program of the Salvadoran Lutheran Church. He is currently the pastor of the Resurrection Lutheran Church in San Salvador\, appointed by Bishop Medardo Gómez and reaffirmed in 2025 by Bishop Guadalupe Cortez. \n  \nRev. Chavarría has led Salvadoran art workshops in Brazil\, Germany\, Sweden\, Finland\, Canada\, and the United States\, sharing his testimony of faith\, speaking against the injustices of war\, and inspiring children and youth to live fully in the grace and love of God. \n\n\n\n Tia Richardson – Community Muralist & Keynote Speaker\n \nTia Richardson is a community muralist in Milwaukee\, who works to create a “vibrant sense of community through living art” and engaging the community in the process of creating murals. \n  \nTia has been painting since childhood\, and studied at MATC. She has worked with Milwaukee Christian Center’s (MCC) artist-in residence program\, helping teens develop art skills as well as confidence\, collaboration\, and awareness. Her art helps many to process emotional stress and social struggles\, as well as connect with their community. Art has always served as therapy for Tia\, and now she helps others find solace in it as well. Teens from MCC and students from UWM act as assistants for Tia’s murals around Milwaukee. Her art has also been featured in multiple print publications.  \n  \nTia incorporates feedback from the community to design her murals\, and uses a “paint by number” style to enable contributors of all ages and skill levels to help create these murals. Murals of hers can be found at the Milwaukee County Courthouse\, Sherman Park Neighborhood\, Wilson Elementary School\, and Black Cat Alley\, to name a few. \n  \nMore about her work can be found on her website\, and you can read more about our collaborative mural here. \n\n\n\n Rev. Miguel Gomez-Acosta – Churchwide Representative\n \nRev. Miguel F. Gomez-Acosta\, ELCA’s Senior Director for New Ministry Development and Evangelism\, will serve as the churchwide representative at this year’s Synod Assembly. He has a B.A. in Biblical Studies from the Lutheran Bible Institute of Seattle and a M.Div. from Fuller Theological Seminary. He served as a parish pastor for 10 years\, as a mission developer and redeveloper\, before being called to the Grand Canyon Synod of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America as director for evangelical mission\, where he served for seven years. Pastor Miguel is an evangelist and missionary at heart and he lives out that calling as a coach for missional pastors and congregations. He is an ICF Associate Certified Coach and works with both individuals and teams. \n\n Bishop of Meru Diocese in Tanzania \nBishop Elias Kitoi Nasari was born at Mulala Village in Meru\, and pursued his study in Theology at the then Makumira University College before being ordained to become a pastor in 1984 and served in various parishes in Meru and Northern Dioceses. \n  \nBishop Elias Kitoi Nasari became the District pastor of Meru before moving to the United States for Masters of Divinity and Sacred Theology Masters. He worked as a pastor in the United States for ten years\, in addition to being a Missionary between the Evangelical Lutheran Church in Tanzania (ELCT) and ELCA. This time helped forge a lasting relationship with Bishop Paul Erickson and the Greater Milwaukee Synod. He served as Assistant to the Bishop in Meru Diocese\, and later became Bishop of Meru Diocese of the ELCT in 2017.  \n  \nHis work focuses on community development\, including education and partnerships\, such as those with Kikatiti Secondary School. He has fostered strong relationships with international partners\, including congregations in Bavaria\, Germany.  \nBishop of the Salvadoran Lutheran Church \nIn January 2025\, Bishop Guadalupe Cortéz was installed as church president and bishop of the Salvadoran Lutheran Church (Iglesia Luterana Salvadoreña or ILS) for a four-year term. She is the second bishop since the church’s founding\, and the first woman to hold the position. \n  \nBishop Guadalupe began working as a trainee in the church’s social services\, and subsequently as an evangelic catechist in the 1980s. From 2003 – 2007\, she studied theology at the Universidad Luterana Salvadoreña. Since 2010\, she has served as Diaconal Pastoral Coordinator of the ILS. She has previously served as pastor of New Esperanza Church in Nueva Concepción\, Chalatenango\, as well as vice president of the ILS. \nSalvadoran Lutheran Pastor and Artist \nRev. Christian Chavarría Ayala was born in 1976 in northern El Salvador. He survived the civil war of the 1980s and lived as a refugee with his family for seven years in the Mesa Grande camps in Honduras\, and later for three years as a refugee child (alone) in Sweden. He began painting at the age of eight\, turning his art into a personal form of healing from the traumas of war. He creates vibrant\, colorful wooden crosses in a traditional Salvadoran style. One of his most significant work is the two-meter-high cross “Lund Cross”\, he painted for the 2016 Joint Ecumenical Commemoration of the Reformation in Sweden\, attended by Pope Francis and leaders of the Lutheran World Federation. This cross is now permanently placed in the chapel of the Ecumenical Centre in Geneva\, Switzerland. His art has been traveling around the world to more than 136 countries and is held by world leaders\, Finland´s president\, Archbishop of Canterbury\, Pope Francis who was presented with one of his crosses in 2013. \n  \nHis art reflects Salvadoran cultural traditions from a Christian perspective\, expressing the martyred legacy of the Latin American churches\, as well as the reconciliation and hope of a suffering people. \n  \nAt twelve\, he encountered the Salvadoran Lutheran Church and was confirmed at thirteen. Since then\, he has served faithfully alongside Bishop Medardo Gómez. He studied theology at the Salvadoran Lutheran University and the Seminary of the Salvadoran Lutheran Synod. As a layperson\, he founded a new congregation in the mountains of San Vicente in 2012. In August 2019\, he was ordained as Presbyter of the Salvadoran Lutheran Church. \n  \nSince 2022\, Rev. Chavarría has served as Coordinator of the Sister Churches Program of the Salvadoran Lutheran Church. He is currently the pastor of the Resurrection Lutheran Church in San Salvador\, appointed by Bishop Medardo Gómez and reaffirmed in 2025 by Bishop Guadalupe Cortez. \n  \nRev. Chavarría has led Salvadoran art workshops in Brazil\, Germany\, Sweden\, Finland\, Canada\, and the United States\, sharing his testimony of faith\, speaking against the injustices of war\, and inspiring children and youth to live fully in the grace and love of God. \nTia Richardson is a community muralist in Milwaukee\, who works to create a “vibrant sense of community through living art” and engaging the community in the process of creating murals. \n  \nTia has been painting since childhood\, and studied at MATC. She has worked with Milwaukee Christian Center’s (MCC) artist-in residence program\, helping teens develop art skills as well as confidence\, collaboration\, and awareness. Her art helps many to process emotional stress and social struggles\, as well as connect with their community. Art has always served as therapy for Tia\, and now she helps others find solace in it as well. Teens from MCC and students from UWM act as assistants for Tia’s murals around Milwaukee. Her art has also been featured in multiple print publications.  \n  \nTia incorporates feedback from the community to design her murals\, and uses a “paint by number” style to enable contributors of all ages and skill levels to help create these murals. Murals of hers can be found at the Milwaukee County Courthouse\, Sherman Park Neighborhood\, Wilson Elementary School\, and Black Cat Alley\, to name a few. \n  \nMore about her work can be found on her website\, and you can read more about our collaborative mural here. \nRev. Miguel F. Gomez-Acosta\, ELCA’s Senior Director for New Ministry Development and Evangelism\, will serve as the churchwide representative at this year’s Synod Assembly. He has a B.A. in Biblical Studies from the Lutheran Bible Institute of Seattle and a M.Div. from Fuller Theological Seminary. He served as a parish pastor for 10 years\, as a mission developer and redeveloper\, before being called to the Grand Canyon Synod of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America as director for evangelical mission\, where he served for seven years. Pastor Miguel is an evangelist and missionary at heart and he lives out that calling as a coach for missional pastors and congregations. He is an ICF Associate Certified Coach and works with both individuals and teams. \nResources to Prepare for Assembly\n\n\n Detailed Agenda\n \nTuesday\, May 26 (pre-Assembly) \n6:30 pm – Assembly Orientation via zoom7:30 pm – Budget Hearing via zoom \nWednesday\, May 27 (pre-Assembly) \n6:30 pm – Recommended Policies and Procedures for a Safe Community for All of God’s Children (Safe Congregations Policy) \nFriday\, May 29 (Assembly\, Day 1) \n2:00 pm – Registration opens \n4:00 pm – Plenary 1 (Room: Connect B/C) \nWelcome & Land AcknowledgmentOpening of the AssemblyOrientation & IntroductionsGlobal Companion GreetingsLutheran Social Services GreetingsReport of the Credentials CommitteeAssembly AppointmentsAdoption of AgendaApproval of Rules & ProceduresNominations ReportReference & Counsel ReportRecognition of Breaking the Chains Church \n5:15 pm – Dinner and Keynote with Tia Richardson \n7:00 pm – Worship (Room: Connect A) \n8:15 pm – Dessert Reception \n9:00 pm – Nominations close \nSaturday\, May 30 (Assembly\, Day 2) \n7:30 am – Registration opens \n7:30 am – Continental Breakfast \n8:30 am – Plenary 2 (Room: Connect B/C) \nOrientation & ReviewPortico GreetingsDevotionTreasurer’s Report & Budget PresentationReport of the BishopCollaboration Table ConversationChurch Property Resource Hub GreetingsBreakReport of the Credentials CommitteeFirst Ballot for Open PositionsReport of the Vice PresidentSafe Congregations PolicyAction on the BudgetCollaboration Table Conversations \n12pm – Lunch \n1:15 pm – Plenary 3 (Room: Connect B/C) \nDevotion Report of the Credentials CommitteeReport of the First Ballot for Open PositionsConstitutional ChangesELCA Representative ReportBreakCollaboration Table ConversationsUnfinished businessInstall Elected PersonsClosing of the AssemblyAssembly Adjourns \n\n\n\n Worship & Offering\n \nFriday\, May 29 at 7:00 pmBrookfield Conference Center \nOne of the most important things we do at synod assembly work is to worship together. This is a time to ground us in the word of God\, bring us together as the body of Christ\, and help us prayerfully reflect and prepare for the work ahead. We invite everyone to join us in worship together during synod assembly.  It is not necessary to register to attend worship and you do not need to be a voting member of the assembly to attend worship. \n  \nBishop Elias Kitoi Nasari and Bishop Guadalupe Cortéz\, along with Bishop Erickson will preside during worship. Pastor Christian Chavarria will lead our musicians in worship.   \n \nQR code for offering \n  \nOur offering will support the Synod Mural Project. This mural\, designed and created by Tia Richardson will be installed at The Table. We are grateful to Ascension Lutheran Church in Milwaukee for providing space for this mural to come to life.  \n  \nLearn more about our global companions and Tia Richardson above in the Special Guests information. \n \n \n\n\n Assembly Booklet\n \nThe full assembly booklet is linked below. Each area of the booklet is also broken out into separate resource tabs in this section. \n \n\n\n\nTitle\nDownload\n\n\n\n \n2026 Synod Assembly Booklet\n DownloadPreview \n\n\n\n You need to login to be able to upload file!\n Username or Email Address\n \n \n Password\n \n Remember Me \n \n \n \n \n\n\n Assembly Rules\n \nThe Greater Milwaukee Synod Council recommends to the Synod Assembly the following Rules and Procedures for 2026. These will be formalized by the assembly at the first plenary session\, but will be followed prior to that action. \nThe assembly rules posted below were amended by the Synod Council on 5/14/2026. \n \n \n\n\n\nTitle\nDownload\n\n\n\n \nRoberts-Rules-of-Order\n DownloadPreview \n\n \nEdited 2026 Synod Assembly Rules\n DownloadPreview \n\n\n\n \n \n\n\n Resolutions\n \nAs of April 1\, 2026 we did not receive any resolutions. \nThe deadline to submit a resolution was March 31\, 2026.  \nLearn more about resolutions and memorials – what they are\, how to write them and more –  in this guide and this flowchart. \n\n\n\n Constitutional Amendments\n \n \n\n\n\nTitle\nDownload\n\n\n\n \nGMS Constitution 2026 05-19\n DownloadPreview \n\n \nConstitional Amendments\n DownloadPreview \n\n\n\n \n \n\n\n Nominations and Open Positions\n \nOpen positions for nominations are listed below. Use this fillable pdf or our online form to submit a nomination form. Please note: Gender non-binary or gender non-conforming people can be nominated to serve in any roles designated for gendered representation.  \n  \nDiscipline Committee \n  \nThe role of the discipline committee is spelled out in detail in chapter 20 of the ELCA’s constitution\, focusing on working to resolve conflicts within the synod and in congregations. The term of service is six years and members may not be elected to consecutive terms.  Nominations are linked below and or they can be previewed using the “All Nominations” file list at the bottom of this tab. \n\nAt Large\, Lay Male (full term 9/1/2026 – 8/31/2032) vote for one\n\nCharles Stalzer (he/him)\n\n\n\n\nAt Large\, Lay Female (full term 9/1/2026 – 8/31/2032) vote for one\n\nNancy Day (she/her)\nMarissa Knopick (she/her)\n\n\n\n\nAt Large\, Rostered Minister (full term 9/1/2026 – 8/31/2032) vote for two\n\nRev. Jim Hearne (he/him)\nRev. Juniper Linberry (they/them)\nRev. Matt Short (he/him)\nRev. Casey Sugden (he/him)\n\n\n\n All Nominations\n \n\n\n\nTitle\nDownload\n\n\n\n \nNancy Day\n DownloadPreview \n\n \nMatt Short\n DownloadPreview \n\n \nMarissa Knopick\n DownloadPreview \n\n \nJuniper Linberry\n DownloadPreview \n\n \nJim Hearne\n DownloadPreview \n\n \nCharles Stalzer\n DownloadPreview \n\n \nCasey Sugden\n DownloadPreview \n\n\n\n \n \n\n\n Financial Reports & Mission Support\n \n \n\n\n\nTitle\nDownload\n\n\n\n \n1. GMS 2026 Amended Budget & 2027-28 Proposed Budget\n DownloadPreview \n\n \n2. Budget Description Line Items for 27-28 budget proposal\n DownloadPreview \n\n \n3. GMS Actual vs Budget Feb 2025 – Jan 2026\n DownloadPreview \n\n \n4. GMS Balance Sheet Jan 2026\n DownloadPreview \n\n \n5. Restricted Funds Description with Year End Balance 2025-26 fiscal year\n DownloadPreview \n\n \n6. GMS Final Audit Report 2025\n DownloadPreview \n\n\n\n \n \n\n\n Safe Congregations Policy\n \nThis handbook is a direct response to the ELCA Social Message on Child Protection\, adopted by the ELCA Church Council on November 12\, 2025. With this national call to action\, the Greater Milwaukee Synod has refined and expanded our protection program to safeguard not only children and youth but all vulnerable members of our community. In this document\, you will see child\, but it can pertain to a vulnerable adult\, as well.The intent of this plan is to protect our children\, youth\, and vulnerable adults; to support the staff and volunteers who work with them; and to provide security for our congregations. \n \n \n\n\n\nTitle\nDownload\n\n\n\n \nSafe Congregations Policy\n DownloadPreview \n\n\n\n \n \n\n\n Reports\n \n \n\n\n\nTitle\nDownload\n\n\n\n \n2026 Bishop's Report\n DownloadPreview \n\n \n2026 Report of the Secretary\n DownloadPreview \n\n \n2026 Synod Assembly Letter from Presiding Bishop Curry – English\n DownloadPreview \n\n \n2026 Synod Assembly Letter from Presiding Bishop Curry – Spanish\n DownloadPreview \n\n \n2026 Vice President's Report\n DownloadPreview \n\n \nChurch Property Resource Hub Report\n DownloadPreview \n\n \nEl Salvador Ministry Team Annual Report 2025\n DownloadPreview \n\n \nLuther College Report\n DownloadPreview \n\n \nLutheran Office for Public Policy in Wisconsin Report\n Download \n\n \nLutheran School of Theology at Chicago Report\n DownloadPreview \n\n \nLutheran Social Services Report\n DownloadPreview \n\n \nPortico Report\n DownloadPreview \n\n \nRoster Transitions Since the 2025 Assembly\n DownloadPreview \n\n \nSt. Olaf College Report\n DownloadPreview \n\n \nWartburg Seminary Report\n DownloadPreview \n\n\n\n\nVideo Reports \nLutheran School of Theology at Chicago \nWartburg Theological Seminary Report \n\n\n\n Transportation\, Meals\, and Facility Information\n \nBrookfield Conference Center \nThe Brookfield Conference Center\, 325 S Moorland Rd\, Brookfield\, WI 53005\, is the location of our annual assembly in 2025. This conference facility is located just off 1-94 near Brookfield Square Mall. Ample parking is available right outside the venue. \nPublic Transportation \nPublic transportation is available  from Milwaukee. Learn more about the bus route and transfers here. \n \nAdditional Information \n\n\nDress in Layers: Conference facilities can vary greatly in temperature and you will be more comfortable if you dress in layers. \n\n\nWi-Fi: Wi-Fi will be available during the assembly. You will find log-in information on each table and in your conference materials. \n\n\nFriday Dinner: On Friday evening we offer a choice of a chicken or vegetarian entree. You will find a dinner ticket tucked in the middle of the name badge holder that notes your dinner choice. Place your meal ticket on the table in front of after the conclusion of Plenary 1. If you shared information about an allergy or dietary restriction that requires a special meal\, you may have a red colored ticket. Be sure to confirm with the server that you are receiving the correct meal. \n\n\nSaturday Meals: We have a light continental breakfast buffet featuring juice\, house-made pastries\, sliced breakfast breads\, muffins\, coffee\, tea\, and water scheduled for 7:30 am. Lunch is a soup\, salad\, and sandwich buffet. In addition\, two snack breaks are offered – one in the morning and another in the afternoon. \n\n\nRestrooms: The primary set of restrooms is located past the display tables on the west end of the building. An all-gender restroom is available on the east end of the building. There is also a private space for nursing mothers. \n\n\nChildcare: Our childcare room is staffed by a paid and background-checked team of adults. Children must be pre-registered for childcare; we are unable to accommodate children that are not pre-registered. We hire providers based on the number and ages of registered children. Children will have Friday dinner and Saturday lunch in the childcare room. Parents should plan to send their own snacks\, diapers\, comfort items\, and shareable toys with their child.  \n\n\nElectronic Devices: You are encouraged and welcome to bring your electronic devices along to access documents needed for the assembly. Please do not bring extension cords with you. We will have a charging station near the back of the room if you need to charge your device. Extension cords are a tripping hazard and will be removed. \n\n\n\nTuesday\, May 26 (pre-Assembly) \n6:30 pm – Assembly Orientation via zoom7:30 pm – Budget Hearing via zoom \nWednesday\, May 27 (pre-Assembly) \n6:30 pm – Recommended Policies and Procedures for a Safe Community for All of God’s Children (Safe Congregations Policy) \nFriday\, May 29 (Assembly\, Day 1) \n2:00 pm – Registration opens \n4:00 pm – Plenary 1 (Room: Connect B/C) \nWelcome & Land AcknowledgmentOpening of the AssemblyOrientation & IntroductionsGlobal Companion GreetingsLutheran Social Services GreetingsReport of the Credentials CommitteeAssembly AppointmentsAdoption of AgendaApproval of Rules & ProceduresNominations ReportReference & Counsel ReportRecognition of Breaking the Chains Church \n5:15 pm – Dinner and Keynote with Tia Richardson \n7:00 pm – Worship (Room: Connect A) \n8:15 pm – Dessert Reception \n9:00 pm – Nominations close \nSaturday\, May 30 (Assembly\, Day 2) \n7:30 am – Registration opens \n7:30 am – Continental Breakfast \n8:30 am – Plenary 2 (Room: Connect B/C) \nOrientation & ReviewPortico GreetingsDevotionTreasurer’s Report & Budget PresentationReport of the BishopCollaboration Table ConversationChurch Property Resource Hub GreetingsBreakReport of the Credentials CommitteeFirst Ballot for Open PositionsReport of the Vice PresidentSafe Congregations PolicyAction on the BudgetCollaboration Table Conversations \n12pm – Lunch \n1:15 pm – Plenary 3 (Room: Connect B/C) \nDevotion Report of the Credentials CommitteeReport of the First Ballot for Open PositionsConstitutional ChangesELCA Representative ReportBreakCollaboration Table ConversationsUnfinished businessInstall Elected PersonsClosing of the AssemblyAssembly Adjourns \nFriday\, May 29 at 7:00 pmBrookfield Conference Center \nOne of the most important things we do at synod assembly work is to worship together. This is a time to ground us in the word of God\, bring us together as the body of Christ\, and help us prayerfully reflect and prepare for the work ahead. We invite everyone to join us in worship together during synod assembly.  It is not necessary to register to attend worship and you do not need to be a voting member of the assembly to attend worship. \n  \nBishop Elias Kitoi Nasari and Bishop Guadalupe Cortéz\, along with Bishop Erickson will preside during worship. Pastor Christian Chavarria will lead our musicians in worship.   \nQR code for offering \n  \nOur offering will support the Synod Mural Project. This mural\, designed and created by Tia Richardson will be installed at The Table. We are grateful to Ascension Lutheran Church in Milwaukee for providing space for this mural to come to life.  \n  \nLearn more about our global companions and Tia Richardson above in the Special Guests information. \n  \nThe full assembly booklet is linked below. Each area of the booklet is also broken out into separate resource tabs in this section. \n \n\n\n\nTitle\nDownload\n\n\n\n \n2026 Synod Assembly Booklet\n DownloadPreview \n\n\n\n\nThe Greater Milwaukee Synod Council recommends to the Synod Assembly the following Rules and Procedures for 2026. These will be formalized by the assembly at the first plenary session\, but will be followed prior to that action. \nThe assembly rules posted below were amended by the Synod Council on 5/14/2026. \n \n \n\n\n\nTitle\nDownload\n\n\n\n \nRoberts-Rules-of-Order\n DownloadPreview \n\n \nEdited 2026 Synod Assembly Rules\n DownloadPreview \n\n\n\n\nAs of April 1\, 2026 we did not receive any resolutions. \nThe deadline to submit a resolution was March 31\, 2026.  \nLearn more about resolutions and memorials – what they are\, how to write them and more –  in this guide and this flowchart. \n \n\n\n\nTitle\nDownload\n\n\n\n \nGMS Constitution 2026 05-19\n DownloadPreview \n\n \nConstitional Amendments\n DownloadPreview \n\n\n\n\nOpen positions for nominations are listed below. Use this fillable pdf or our online form to submit a nomination form. Please note: Gender non-binary or gender non-conforming people can be nominated to serve in any roles designated for gendered representation.  \n  \nDiscipline Committee \n  \nThe role of the discipline committee is spelled out in detail in chapter 20 of the ELCA’s constitution\, focusing on working to resolve conflicts within the synod and in congregations. The term of service is six years and members may not be elected to consecutive terms.  Nominations are linked below and or they can be previewed using the “All Nominations” file list at the bottom of this tab. \n\nAt Large\, Lay Male (full term 9/1/2026 – 8/31/2032) vote for one\n\nCharles Stalzer (he/him)\n\n\n\n\nAt Large\, Lay Female (full term 9/1/2026 – 8/31/2032) vote for one\n\nNancy Day (she/her)\nMarissa Knopick (she/her)\n\n\n\n\nAt Large\, Rostered Minister (full term 9/1/2026 – 8/31/2032) vote for two\n\nRev. Jim Hearne (he/him)\nRev. Juniper Linberry (they/them)\nRev. Matt Short (he/him)\nRev. Casey Sugden (he/him)\n\n\n\n All Nominations\n \n\n\n\nTitle\nDownload\n\n\n\n \nNancy Day\n DownloadPreview \n\n \nMatt Short\n DownloadPreview \n\n \nMarissa Knopick\n DownloadPreview \n\n \nJuniper Linberry\n DownloadPreview \n\n \nJim Hearne\n DownloadPreview \n\n \nCharles Stalzer\n DownloadPreview \n\n \nCasey Sugden\n DownloadPreview \n\n\n\n \n \n\n\n\nTitle\nDownload\n\n\n\n \n1. GMS 2026 Amended Budget & 2027-28 Proposed Budget\n DownloadPreview \n\n \n2. Budget Description Line Items for 27-28 budget proposal\n DownloadPreview \n\n \n3. GMS Actual vs Budget Feb 2025 – Jan 2026\n DownloadPreview \n\n \n4. GMS Balance Sheet Jan 2026\n DownloadPreview \n\n \n5. Restricted Funds Description with Year End Balance 2025-26 fiscal year\n DownloadPreview \n\n \n6. GMS Final Audit Report 2025\n DownloadPreview \n\n\n\n\nThis handbook is a direct response to the ELCA Social Message on Child Protection\, adopted by the ELCA Church Council on November 12\, 2025. With this national call to action\, the Greater Milwaukee Synod has refined and expanded our protection program to safeguard not only children and youth but all vulnerable members of our community. In this document\, you will see child\, but it can pertain to a vulnerable adult\, as well.The intent of this plan is to protect our children\, youth\, and vulnerable adults; to support the staff and volunteers who work with them; and to provide security for our congregations. \n \n \n\n\n\nTitle\nDownload\n\n\n\n \nSafe Congregations Policy\n DownloadPreview \n\n\n\n \n \n\n\n\nTitle\nDownload\n\n\n\n \n2026 Bishop's Report\n DownloadPreview \n\n \n2026 Report of the Secretary\n DownloadPreview \n\n \n2026 Synod Assembly Letter from Presiding Bishop Curry – English\n DownloadPreview \n\n \n2026 Synod Assembly Letter from Presiding Bishop Curry – Spanish\n DownloadPreview \n\n \n2026 Vice President's Report\n DownloadPreview \n\n \nChurch Property Resource Hub Report\n DownloadPreview \n\n \nEl Salvador Ministry Team Annual Report 2025\n DownloadPreview \n\n \nLuther College Report\n DownloadPreview \n\n \nLutheran Office for Public Policy in Wisconsin Report\n Download \n\n \nLutheran School of Theology at Chicago Report\n DownloadPreview \n\n \nLutheran Social Services Report\n DownloadPreview \n\n \nPortico Report\n DownloadPreview \n\n \nRoster Transitions Since the 2025 Assembly\n DownloadPreview \n\n \nSt. Olaf College Report\n DownloadPreview \n\n \nWartburg Seminary Report\n DownloadPreview \n\n\n\n\nVideo Reports \nLutheran School of Theology at Chicago \nWartburg Theological Seminary Report \nBrookfield Conference Center \nThe Brookfield Conference Center\, 325 S Moorland Rd\, Brookfield\, WI 53005\, is the location of our annual assembly in 2025. This conference facility is located just off 1-94 near Brookfield Square Mall. Ample parking is available right outside the venue. \nPublic Transportation \nPublic transportation is available  from Milwaukee. Learn more about the bus route and transfers here. \n \nAdditional Information \n\n\nDress in Layers: Conference facilities can vary greatly in temperature and you will be more comfortable if you dress in layers. \n\n\nWi-Fi: Wi-Fi will be available during the assembly. You will find log-in information on each table and in your conference materials. \n\n\nFriday Dinner: On Friday evening we offer a choice of a chicken or vegetarian entree. You will find a dinner ticket tucked in the middle of the name badge holder that notes your dinner choice. Place your meal ticket on the table in front of after the conclusion of Plenary 1. If you shared information about an allergy or dietary restriction that requires a special meal\, you may have a red colored ticket. Be sure to confirm with the server that you are receiving the correct meal. \n\n\nSaturday Meals: We have a light continental breakfast buffet featuring juice\, house-made pastries\, sliced breakfast breads\, muffins\, coffee\, tea\, and water scheduled for 7:30 am. Lunch is a soup\, salad\, and sandwich buffet. In addition\, two snack breaks are offered – one in the morning and another in the afternoon. \n\n\nRestrooms: The primary set of restrooms is located past the display tables on the west end of the building. An all-gender restroom is available on the east end of the building. There is also a private space for nursing mothers. \n\n\nChildcare: Our childcare room is staffed by a paid and background-checked team of adults. Children must be pre-registered for childcare; we are unable to accommodate children that are not pre-registered. We hire providers based on the number and ages of registered children. Children will have Friday dinner and Saturday lunch in the childcare room. Parents should plan to send their own snacks\, diapers\, comfort items\, and shareable toys with their child.  \n\n\nElectronic Devices: You are encouraged and welcome to bring your electronic devices along to access documents needed for the assembly. Please do not bring extension cords with you. We will have a charging station near the back of the room if you need to charge your device. Extension cords are a tripping hazard and will be removed. \n\n\nHelpful Information About Synod Assembly\n\n\n How Are Voting Members Determined?\n \n\nAll actively serving rostered ministers (pastors and deacons) are voting members at Synod Assembly. They do not count towards your lay voting member limits.\nRetired rostered ministers who wish to attend as a voting member must contact the synod office prior to registering.  Retired Rostered Ministers do not register as a lay voting member of a congregation. Learn more by visiting the Retired Rostered Minister Voting Information tab below.\nThe number of lay voting members your congregation elects depends on the number of baptized members reported on your 2024 congregational report form A. We encourage congregations to choose voting members who will represent a range of age\, ethnicity\, and gender whenever possible. Use our handy chart to see how many voting lay people your congregation can register for Synod Assembly. This page also includes some helpful FAQs about voting members.\n\nAll congregations may elect at least two lay voting members to the Synod Assembly.\nCongregations having 750 to 1\,249 baptized members may elect a third lay voting member. Thereafter an additional lay voting member may be added for each additional 500 baptized members of the congregation (e.g. at 1\,250 members\, 1\,750 members\, etc.).\nAll congregations may add one voting member to the number allotted if that additional member is a youth or young adult (30 or younger when elected).\n\n\n\n\n\n\n Registration\n \nImportant Dates \n\n\nApril 30\, 2026: Final day of early bird pricing   \n\n\nMay 1\, 2026: Registration prices increase  \n\n\nMay 14\, 2026: Cancellation deadline (cancellations after this date cannot be refunded) \n\n\nMay 14\, 2026 – Advance registration closes (including registrations with childcare) \n\n\n  \n2026 Registration Fees \n\n\nVoting Members/Non-voting members: $245 (early bird pricing – register by April 30)/$270 (standard pricing – register May 1 or later. \n\nRetired Rostered Ministers\, Youth\, Young Adults:$145 (early bird pricing – register by April 30)/$170 (standard pricing – register May 1 or later)\n\nWalk-in registration ($170/$270) will be available beginning May 29. Meals are not guaranteed for walk-in registrations. \nWe respectfully request that all registrations (including walk-ins) be paid by May 29\, 2026. If you need to make other arrangements\, please contact us directly at 414.671.1212. \n\n\n\n Retired Rostered Minister Voting Information\n \nIn accordance with the bylaw adopted at the 2022 assembly\, the number of retired rostered ministers serving as voting members shall not exceed 15% of the retired roster. All other retired ministers rostered in this synod shall be advisory members to the Synod Assembly\, with voice\, but not vote. The number of retired rostered ministers that can serve as voting members this year is 22. \n  \nRetired rostered ministers serving under contract in transitional ministries are automatically granted voting privileges. \n  \nRetired rostered ministers who are NOT serving under contract in transitional ministries must contact Mary Romskog  (414.671.1212) in the synod office by March 31\, 2026 prior to registering. If there are more than 22 retired rostered ministers who express interest in serving as a voting member\, we will conduct a vote\, allowing you\, as the retired rostered ministers\, to decide who will be the voting members. \n  \nIf we reach the limit of retired rostered ministers with voting privileges\, additional retired rostered ministers are welcome to register as non-voting members and are allowed to speak on all matters before the assembly.  \n\n\n\n Childcare\n \nOur childcare room is staffed by a paid and background-checked team of adults. Children must be pre-registered for childcare; we are unable to accommodate children that are not pre-registered. We hire providers based on the number and ages of registered children. \n  \nChildcare is available for children 6 weeks through five years old. If you have older children we’ll do our best to provide childcare for them. Please contact the office for details about childcare for older children at 414.671.1212. \n  \nChildren will have Friday dinner and Saturday lunch in the childcare room. Parents should plan to send their own snacks\, diapers\, comfort items and shareable toys with their child. \n  \nParents of registered children: Please take a few minutes to fill this form in before you arrive for assembly: Child care form. You will turn this form in to the child care providers. \nIMPORTANT!! Our childcare providers have received background checks and they are compensated for their time. If you find you won’t need childcare after registering we would appreciate a phone call. \n\n\n\n Simple Agenda\n \nA more detailed agenda will be available closer to the Assembly. \nTuesday\, May 26 (pre-Assembly) \n\n\n6:30 pm – Assembly Orientation via zoom \n\n\n7:30 pm – Budget Hearing via zoom \n\n\nWednesday\, May 27 (pre-Assembly) \n\n\n6:30 pm – Recommended Policies and Procedures for a Safe Community for All of God’s Children \n\n\nFriday\, May 29 (Assembly\, Day 1) \n\n\n2:00 pm – Registration opens \n\n\n4:00 pm – Plenary 1 \n\n\n5:15 pm – Dinner and Keynote with Tia Richardson \n\n\n7:00 pm – Worship \n\n\nSaturday\, May 30 (Assembly\, Day 2) \n\n\n7:30 am – Registration opens \n\n\n8:30 am – Plenary 2 \n\n\n10:00 am – Break \n\n\n12pm – Lunch \n\n\n1:15 pm – Plenary 3 \n\n\n2:15 pm – Break \n\n\n4:00 pm – Sending \n\n\n\n\n\n Information for Voting Members\n \nPlease check this page for updated information that will assist you as you prepare to attend Synod Assembly. \nHere are a few tips to get started: \n\n\nMaterials and information will be shared directly with voting members at the email address you provide when you register. This includes information for voting during assembly. \n\n\nIf your email address changes or you are not receiving information starting in May\, please contact us immediately. \n\n\nSynod Assembly work includes being informed about the resolutions\, rules\, constitutional amendments\, elected positions and more that will be presented.   \n\n\nWe strongly encourage you to take the time to read through the information and be prepared for discussion and voting during assembly. \n\n\nLearn more by visiting the Resources to prepare for Assembly section below. \n\n\n\n\n\n Dinner Tickets and Keynote Speaker\n \n \n Purchase Dinner Tickets\n \nKeynote Speaker: Tia Richardson \n  \n  \n2026 will be the year of Collaboration in the synod\, focusing on the fourth of our synod’s core values. One of the ways we will be exploring this theme is through the design and production of a synod mural led by Tia Richardson and we are delighted to welcome her as our keynote speaker for Synod Assembly. \n \nTia Richardson \n  \nTia Richardson is an integrative community artist\, focusing her efforts as an artist-in-residence for schools\, community organizations\, places of worship\, and nonprofits. As an integrated community artist\, she facilitates holistic visual arts programs  (e.g. book-making\, illustration\, story-writing\, community-led murals) for youth and adults using a team-building framework.  She often incorporates therapeutic techniques such as group rhythm\, son\, movement\, and visual arts; as well as restorative practices like talking circles. \n  \nTia has a certification in Trauma-Informed Care from First Aid Arts and has worked with and in a variety of settings\, including public schools\, social services agencies\, neighborhood organizations\, the juvenile justice system\, after-care centers\, and grassroots collectives. Her project themes have ranged from creative community empowerment to positive self-esteem to environmental awareness and academics.  Learn more at cosmic-butterfly.com. \n\n\n\n Display Tables\n \nAs of April 27th our display tables are full and we are not able to accept any additional requests or any walk-in displays. A list of display tables is included below. \n\nRev. Carol Jeunnette: Family Systems in Ministry\nCosmic Butterfly Designs\nEl Salvador Partnership\nELCA Chaplain Corps & Specialized Ministry\nELCA Church Property Resource Hub\nELCA World Hunger\n\n\nELEA – ELCA Schools and Learning Centers\nGlobal Refuge\nLutheran Office for Public Policy in Wisconsin\nLutheran Social Services\nLutheran School of Theology at Chicago\nLuther Manor\n\n\nLutheran Campus Ministry\nLutherdale Bible Camp\nMeru Partnership\nMt. Meru Coffee Project\nOutreach for Hope\nPortico Benefits\n\n\nRacial Equity and Justice Team\nReconciling in Christ\nSumud/Wisconsin Christians for Justice in Palestine\nThrivent Financial\nWartburg Seminary\n\nThe fee for a display table is $160 and includes meals for one person. Electricity is included in this fee. Table space is limited. If you register after our available space is filled\, we will notify you and refund any registration fee you have paid. Our registration deadline for displays is April 30. We are not able to accommodate walk-in registrations for displays.  \n  \nHere is some helpful information on the different ways display tables cover staffing and the table fee: \n\n\none person working the table for the full event requires one registration. \n\n\ntwo or more people covering a table for the full event (all present at the same time) requires separate registrations for each person. \n\n\ntwo or more people covering a table with only one person present at any time requires only one registration. Please contact us to assist you with this registration at 414.671.1212. \n\n\n \n Register Now\n \n \n\nAll actively serving rostered ministers (pastors and deacons) are voting members at Synod Assembly. They do not count towards your lay voting member limits.\nRetired rostered ministers who wish to attend as a voting member must contact the synod office prior to registering.  Retired Rostered Ministers do not register as a lay voting member of a congregation. Learn more by visiting the Retired Rostered Minister Voting Information tab below.\nThe number of lay voting members your congregation elects depends on the number of baptized members reported on your 2024 congregational report form A. We encourage congregations to choose voting members who will represent a range of age\, ethnicity\, and gender whenever possible. Use our handy chart to see how many voting lay people your congregation can register for Synod Assembly. This page also includes some helpful FAQs about voting members.\n\nAll congregations may elect at least two lay voting members to the Synod Assembly.\nCongregations having 750 to 1\,249 baptized members may elect a third lay voting member. Thereafter an additional lay voting member may be added for each additional 500 baptized members of the congregation (e.g. at 1\,250 members\, 1\,750 members\, etc.).\nAll congregations may add one voting member to the number allotted if that additional member is a youth or young adult (30 or younger when elected).\n\n\n\nImportant Dates \n\n\nApril 30\, 2026: Final day of early bird pricing   \n\n\nMay 1\, 2026: Registration prices increase  \n\n\nMay 14\, 2026: Cancellation deadline (cancellations after this date cannot be refunded) \n\n\nMay 14\, 2026 – Advance registration closes (including registrations with childcare) \n\n\n  \n2026 Registration Fees \n\n\nVoting Members/Non-voting members: $245 (early bird pricing – register by April 30)/$270 (standard pricing – register May 1 or later. \n\nRetired Rostered Ministers\, Youth\, Young Adults:$145 (early bird pricing – register by April 30)/$170 (standard pricing – register May 1 or later)\n\nWalk-in registration ($170/$270) will be available beginning May 29. Meals are not guaranteed for walk-in registrations. \nWe respectfully request that all registrations (including walk-ins) be paid by May 29\, 2026. If you need to make other arrangements\, please contact us directly at 414.671.1212. \nIn accordance with the bylaw adopted at the 2022 assembly\, the number of retired rostered ministers serving as voting members shall not exceed 15% of the retired roster. All other retired ministers rostered in this synod shall be advisory members to the Synod Assembly\, with voice\, but not vote. The number of retired rostered ministers that can serve as voting members this year is 22. \n  \nRetired rostered ministers serving under contract in transitional ministries are automatically granted voting privileges. \n  \nRetired rostered ministers who are NOT serving under contract in transitional ministries must contact Mary Romskog  (414.671.1212) in the synod office by March 31\, 2026 prior to registering. If there are more than 22 retired rostered ministers who express interest in serving as a voting member\, we will conduct a vote\, allowing you\, as the retired rostered ministers\, to decide who will be the voting members. \n  \nIf we reach the limit of retired rostered ministers with voting privileges\, additional retired rostered ministers are welcome to register as non-voting members and are allowed to speak on all matters before the assembly.  \nOur childcare room is staffed by a paid and background-checked team of adults. Children must be pre-registered for childcare; we are unable to accommodate children that are not pre-registered. We hire providers based on the number and ages of registered children. \n  \nChildcare is available for children 6 weeks through five years old. If you have older children we’ll do our best to provide childcare for them. Please contact the office for details about childcare for older children at 414.671.1212. \n  \nChildren will have Friday dinner and Saturday lunch in the childcare room. Parents should plan to send their own snacks\, diapers\, comfort items and shareable toys with their child. \n  \nParents of registered children: Please take a few minutes to fill this form in before you arrive for assembly: Child care form. You will turn this form in to the child care providers. \nIMPORTANT!! Our childcare providers have received background checks and they are compensated for their time. If you find you won’t need childcare after registering we would appreciate a phone call. \nA more detailed agenda will be available closer to the Assembly. \nTuesday\, May 26 (pre-Assembly) \n\n\n6:30 pm – Assembly Orientation via zoom \n\n\n7:30 pm – Budget Hearing via zoom \n\n\nWednesday\, May 27 (pre-Assembly) \n\n\n6:30 pm – Recommended Policies and Procedures for a Safe Community for All of God’s Children \n\n\nFriday\, May 29 (Assembly\, Day 1) \n\n\n2:00 pm – Registration opens \n\n\n4:00 pm – Plenary 1 \n\n\n5:15 pm – Dinner and Keynote with Tia Richardson \n\n\n7:00 pm – Worship \n\n\nSaturday\, May 30 (Assembly\, Day 2) \n\n\n7:30 am – Registration opens \n\n\n8:30 am – Plenary 2 \n\n\n10:00 am – Break \n\n\n12pm – Lunch \n\n\n1:15 pm – Plenary 3 \n\n\n2:15 pm – Break \n\n\n4:00 pm – Sending \n\n\nPlease check this page for updated information that will assist you as you prepare to attend Synod Assembly. \nHere are a few tips to get started: \n\n\nMaterials and information will be shared directly with voting members at the email address you provide when you register. This includes information for voting during assembly. \n\n\nIf your email address changes or you are not receiving information starting in May\, please contact us immediately. \n\n\nSynod Assembly work includes being informed about the resolutions\, rules\, constitutional amendments\, elected positions and more that will be presented.   \n\n\nWe strongly encourage you to take the time to read through the information and be prepared for discussion and voting during assembly. \n\n\nLearn more by visiting the Resources to prepare for Assembly section below. \n\n\n \n Purchase Dinner Tickets\n \nKeynote Speaker: Tia Richardson \n  \n  \n2026 will be the year of Collaboration in the synod\, focusing on the fourth of our synod’s core values. One of the ways we will be exploring this theme is through the design and production of a synod mural led by Tia Richardson and we are delighted to welcome her as our keynote speaker for Synod Assembly. \n \nTia Richardson \n  \nTia Richardson is an integrative community artist\, focusing her efforts as an artist-in-residence for schools\, community organizations\, places of worship\, and nonprofits. As an integrated community artist\, she facilitates holistic visual arts programs  (e.g. book-making\, illustration\, story-writing\, community-led murals) for youth and adults using a team-building framework.  She often incorporates therapeutic techniques such as group rhythm\, son\, movement\, and visual arts; as well as restorative practices like talking circles. \n  \nTia has a certification in Trauma-Informed Care from First Aid Arts and has worked with and in a variety of settings\, including public schools\, social services agencies\, neighborhood organizations\, the juvenile justice system\, after-care centers\, and grassroots collectives. Her project themes have ranged from creative community empowerment to positive self-esteem to environmental awareness and academics.  Learn more at cosmic-butterfly.com. \nAs of April 27th our display tables are full and we are not able to accept any additional requests or any walk-in displays. A list of display tables is included below. \n\nRev. Carol Jeunnette: Family Systems in Ministry\nCosmic Butterfly Designs\nEl Salvador Partnership\nELCA Chaplain Corps & Specialized Ministry\nELCA Church Property Resource Hub\nELCA World Hunger\n\n\nELEA – ELCA Schools and Learning Centers\nGlobal Refuge\nLutheran Office for Public Policy in Wisconsin\nLutheran Social Services\nLutheran School of Theology at Chicago\nLuther Manor\n\n\nLutheran Campus Ministry\nLutherdale Bible Camp\nMeru Partnership\nMt. Meru Coffee Project\nOutreach for Hope\nPortico Benefits\n\n\nRacial Equity and Justice Team\nReconciling in Christ\nSumud/Wisconsin Christians for Justice in Palestine\nThrivent Financial\nWartburg Seminary\n\nThe fee for a display table is $160 and includes meals for one person. Electricity is included in this fee. Table space is limited. If you register after our available space is filled\, we will notify you and refund any registration fee you have paid. Our registration deadline for displays is April 30. We are not able to accommodate walk-in registrations for displays.  \n  \nHere is some helpful information on the different ways display tables cover staffing and the table fee: \n\n\none person working the table for the full event requires one registration. \n\n\ntwo or more people covering a table for the full event (all present at the same time) requires separate registrations for each person. \n\n\ntwo or more people covering a table with only one person present at any time requires only one registration. Please contact us to assist you with this registration at 414.671.1212. \n\n\n \n Register Now URL:https://milwaukeesynod.org/event/synod-assembly-2026/ LOCATION:Brookfield Conference Center\, 325 South Moorland Road\, Brookfield\, WI\, 53005\, United States ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://milwaukeesynod.org/wp-content/uploads/2026-SA_Logo-1.png ORGANIZER;CN="Greater Milwaukee Synod":MAILTO:gmsoffice@gmselca.org GEO:43.0283851;-88.1071474 X-APPLE-STRUCTURED-LOCATION;VALUE=URI;X-ADDRESS=Brookfield Conference Center 325 South Moorland Road Brookfield WI 53005 United States;X-APPLE-RADIUS=500;X-TITLE=325 South Moorland Road:geo:-88.1071474,43.0283851 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260519T183000 DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260519T193000 DTSTAMP:20260512T154758Z CREATED:20260310T203947Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260512T154758Z UID:10001555-1779215400-1779219000@milwaukeesynod.org SUMMARY:Inspired for Mission DESCRIPTION:Inspired for Mission\nELCA’s Church Property Resource Hub\n May 19\n @\n6:30 pm\n –\n7:30 pm \n\n Join the Church Property Resource Hub team to learn about how your church can gain new understanding of your property’s potential\, explore new possibilities for property stewardship\, and discern how the Spirit is moving towards new life for your land and buildings. Your building and property could be a huge asset to your ministry. The new Church Property Resource Hub can help you figure out how to use it faithfully.\n \n\n \n Online Event \n \n\n\n\n \n \n \n\nClick Here to Join Us on Zoom! \nMeeting ID: 841 0557 2651Passcode: 205448 URL:https://milwaukeesynod.org/event/inspired-for-mission-elcas-church-property-resource-hub/ LOCATION:Online Event CATEGORIES:Inspired for Mission ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://milwaukeesynod.org/wp-content/uploads/GMS-Inspired-for-Mission_FB-Insta-Post_V1.png ORGANIZER;CN="Greater Milwaukee Synod":MAILTO:gmsoffice@gmselca.org END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260428T183000 DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260428T200000 DTSTAMP:20260406T175023Z CREATED:20260310T194331Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260406T175023Z UID:10001553-1777401000-1777406400@milwaukeesynod.org SUMMARY:Inspired for Mission - Breaking the Chains Church DESCRIPTION:Inspired for Mission – Breaking the Chains Church\nApril 28\n@\n6:30 pm\n–\n8:00 pm \n\nOnline Event \n \n  \n \nCome and be inspired by stories from Breaking the Chains Church\, a prison ministry in our Greater Milwaukee Synod that walks alongside incarcerated men at the Felmers Chaney and Kenosha Correctional Centers\, and men who are re-entering our communities. \nWe’ll hear from Pastor David Rebey as well as a Breaking the Chains alumnus about the transforming and empowering work of the Spirit through this ministry – which just celebrated its 10th anniversary. You’ll also learn how you and your congregation can support this ministry as it becomes an official congregation of the ELCA. \nClick Here to Join Us on Zoom! \nMeeting ID: 891 8819 7295\nPasscode: 811458 URL:https://milwaukeesynod.org/event/inspired-for-mission-breaking-the-chains-church/ LOCATION:Online Event CATEGORIES:Inspired for Mission ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://milwaukeesynod.org/wp-content/uploads/GMS-Inspired-for-Mission_FB-Insta-Post_V1.png ORGANIZER;CN="Greater Milwaukee Synod":MAILTO:gmsoffice@gmselca.org END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260326T133000 DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260326T143000 DTSTAMP:20260319T234347Z CREATED:20260319T233724Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260319T234347Z UID:10001558-1774531800-1774535400@milwaukeesynod.org SUMMARY:Chrism Service DESCRIPTION:Chrism Service\nMarch 26\n@\n1:30 pm\n–\n2:30 pm \n\nMartin Luther Lutheran Church \n9235 W. Bluemound Road \nMilwaukee\,\nWI\n53226\nUnited States\n+ Google Map \n\n414-476-9411 \n \nWe invite all rostered ministers and lay leaders to join us on for a Chrism Service. Rev. CeCee Mills\, secretary of ELCA will preach. \nParticipants will have the opportunity to renew their ordination and baptismal vows and receive a small container of oil that can be used for anointing. \nWe are grateful for the many ways that our leaders are serving during Lent and Holy Week\, and hope that this time of worship can be a chance to reflect and be renewed in body and spirit. URL:https://milwaukeesynod.org/event/chrism-service/ LOCATION:Martin Luther Lutheran Church\, 9235 W. Bluemound Road\, Milwaukee\, WI\, 53226\, United States ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/avif:https://milwaukeesynod.org/wp-content/uploads/69b085d7802d415d293a2696_ceecee-mills_people_800px640px.avif ORGANIZER;CN="Greater Milwaukee Synod":MAILTO:gmsoffice@gmselca.org GEO:43.0354051;-88.0284309 X-APPLE-STRUCTURED-LOCATION;VALUE=URI;X-ADDRESS=Martin Luther Lutheran Church 9235 W. Bluemound Road Milwaukee WI 53226 United States;X-APPLE-RADIUS=500;X-TITLE=9235 W. Bluemound Road:geo:-88.0284309,43.0354051 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260324T183000 DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260324T200000 DTSTAMP:20260316T164313Z CREATED:20260310T185816Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260316T164313Z UID:10001552-1774377000-1774382400@milwaukeesynod.org SUMMARY:Inspired for Mission DESCRIPTION:Inspired for Mission\nTheology of Generosity/Stewardship\nMarch 24\n@\n6:30 pm\n–\n8:00 pm \n\nOnline Event \n \n  \nJoin our synod’s Mission Table for “Inspired for Mission\,” a monthly virtual gatherings centered around inspiring stories of where God is leading our Church! \nOur topic for March is “Theology of Generosity/Stewardship” \nPastor Becky Erb Strang will lead an interactive Inspired for Mission around the theology of generosity. We will explore our own assumptions around money\, generosity\, and volunteering as we ground ourselves biblically. This event is for laity and clergy\, for councils and stewardship teams\, and for anyone interested in growing their understanding of generosity. \nClick Here to Join Us on Zoom! \nMeeting ID: 894 7654 4637\nPasscode: 236833 URL:https://milwaukeesynod.org/event/inpired-for-mission-theology-of-generosity-stewardship/ LOCATION:Online Event CATEGORIES:Inspired for Mission ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://milwaukeesynod.org/wp-content/uploads/GMS-Inspired-for-Mission_FB-Insta-Post_V1.png ORGANIZER;CN="Greater Milwaukee Synod":MAILTO:gmsoffice@gmselca.org END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260217T183000 DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260217T200000 DTSTAMP:20260109T231002Z CREATED:20260109T162925Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260109T231002Z UID:10001540-1771353000-1771358400@milwaukeesynod.org SUMMARY:Faith and Civic Life Social Statement Study Series DESCRIPTION:Faith and Civic Life Social Statement Study Series\nJoin at either time: 10:30 am – noon or 6:30 pm to 8pm on the following dates: \n\nJanuary 13\nJanuary 20\nJanuary 27\nFebruary 3\nFebruary 10\nFebruary 17\n\n\nOnline Event \n \n  \nPlease consider joining Bishop Paul Erickson and Dr. Joyce Caldwell for a six-week study of the recently adopted ELCA Social Statement on Faith and Civic Life. This social statement sets forth the ELCA’s teaching about how disciples and this church may faithfully speak and act in civic life. While existing ELCA social statements and messages address specialized elements of social life\, this statement addresses the broad responsibility for seeking the good of all through civic participation. It sketches a vision of a just and robust civic life dedicated to the well-being of all while giving extended attention to the relationship of faith and political authority. \nThis study will take place via Zoom on six successive Tuesdays\, beginning on January 13 and concluding on February 17. There will be two sessions offered each Tuesday\, from 10:30 to 12:00 noon and from 6:30-8:00 pm\, and participants may choose which session works best for them. While there is no cost for this series\, we ask that all participants register in advance and download a copy of the social statement for use in the series. You may also request a paper copy during the registration process. \n\nRegister URL:https://milwaukeesynod.org/event/faith-and-civic-life-statement-study-series-2/2026-02-17/ LOCATION:Online Event ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/avif:https://milwaukeesynod.org/wp-content/uploads/Screenshot-2025-12-15-at-1.24.17-PM.avif ORGANIZER;CN="Greater Milwaukee Synod":MAILTO:gmsoffice@gmselca.org END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260207T083000 DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260207T150000 DTSTAMP:20260129T173733Z CREATED:20250926T144709Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260129T173733Z UID:10001438-1770453000-1770476400@milwaukeesynod.org SUMMARY:Together In Mission 2026 DESCRIPTION:Together In Mission 2026\n February 7\n @\n8:30 am\n –\n3:00 pm \n\n \n St. Matthew’s Lutheran Church – Wauwatosa \n \n\n1615 Wauwatosa Avenue\n \n Wauwatosa\,\n WI\n 53213\n United States\n\n\n + Google Map \n\n \n \n \n\n \nRegistration deadline: February 1 at 11:59 pm\n \n Register\n \n \nJoin us for our synod’s annual learning gathering of pastors\, deacons and lay leaders from across Southeast Wisconsin! Together we’ll worship\, celebrate our partnership in the Gospel\, and attend workshops on a variety of ministry topics.  \n  \n2026 will be the year of Collaboration in the synod\, focusing on the fourth of our synod’s core values. One of the ways we will be exploring this theme is through the design and production of a synod mural. This process will be led by Tia Richardson\, who will introduce the design process during the opening presentation at Together in Mission\, which will include viewing a documentary film about a similar project she led in Rockford\, IL. All TiM participants have the opportunity to register for one of two design workshops that will take place that morning and afternoon. Additional opportunities to help design and produce the mural will be announced on February 7.  \nNew this year! \nOur worship service will be a Lunch Church service led by Rev. Sarah Stumme and Rev. Jaime Larson McLoone. We’ve set aside time for you to find your box lunch and then join in this worship service scheduled for 11:30 am. \n  \nLunch Church (or Dinner Church) is a table-centered expression of church where community\, hospitality\, and the story of Jesus come together over a shared meal. Rooted in the practices of Jesus and the early church\, it creates sacred space for strangers to become friends\, stories to be shared\, and lives to be transformed. More than a potluck\, Lunch Church reimagines the meal as mission—forming new faith communities around the table\, not the stage. (From the Fresh Expressions website) \nFeatured Speaker: Tia Richardson\nTia Richardson \nTia Richardson is an integrative community artist\, focusing her efforts as an artist-in-residence for schools\, community organizations\, places of worship\, and nonprofits. As an integrated community artist\, she facilitates holistic visual arts programs  (e.g. book-making\, illustration\, story-writing\, community-led murals) for youth and adults using a team-building framework.  She often incorporates therapeutic techniques such as group rhythm\, son\, movement\, and visual arts; as well as restorative practices like talking circles. \n  \nTia has a certification in Trauma-Informed Care from First Aid Arts and has worked with and in a variety of settings\, including public schools\, social services agencies\, neighborhood organizations\, the juvenile justice system\, after-care centers\, and grassroots collectives. Her project themes have ranged from creative community empowerment to positive self-esteem to environmental awareness and academics.  \nAgenda \n8:00 am – Registration opens \n8:30 am – Opening Presentation \n9:30 am – Announcements  \n9:45 am – Break \n10:00 am – Morning Workshops \n11:15 am – Transition to Lunch \n11:30 am – Lunch Church \n12:45 pm – Conference Gatherings* \n1:15 pm – Break \n1:30 pm – Afternoon Workshops \n2:45 pm – Sending \nDownload a pdf of all of the workshop descriptions \nMorning Workshops 10:00 am – 11:15 am\n Beyond Borders: How engaging with our Tanzania and El Salvador partnerships can energize your congregation \nPresenters: Sarah Wehmeier Aparicio and Rev. Chris Marien \nJoin us for a conversation on the ways your congregation can revitalized by learning about our companion synods in the Diocese of Meru and the Salvadoran Lutheran Church. \n Community Design Workshop \nPresenter: Tia Richardson \nPLEASE NOTE: This morning session has reached its maximum of 24 registrants. Please register for the afternoon session of “Community Design Workshop” instead. This is a fun\, engaging hands-on collaborative workshop where participants will have a chance to make a difference by sharing their ideas for a mural that expresses the heart of the synod community. No art experience required! Tia Richardson is a community artist whose work is seen around the Milwaukee area. The workshops offer people a chance to freely express their feelings\, acknowledging what they believe the challenges are with race relations in the synod community\, think of choices they believe can help make that better\, and imagine a brighter future as a result of those choices. People may choose one workshop to attend. *In-person film screening and discussion of Rockford Taking Flight is a pre-requisite to attend a session. This film will be shared during our opening presentation at Together in Mission. To learn more about Tia’s work\, visit www.cosmic-butterfly.com \nPlease note: This workshop is limited to 24 people. \n Conflict Resolution/Management in Congregations \nPresenter: Rev. Becky Erb Strang \nEven with the best of intentions\, congregations often find themselves navigating through conflict\, bullying\, and gaslighting. Pastor Becky Erb Strang will lead a workshop on how to identify conflict situations before they get messy\, how to address sticky situations\, and how to create a healthy congregational life. \n Discovering the Gifts of your Congregation’s Land \nPresenter: Rev. John Norquist \nCome and learn how one congregation experienced renewal as they partnered with neighbors to restore natural habitats to the land surrounding their building\, including planting a two acre prairie in 2019.  Participants will be equipped with tools to lead similar projects in their own congregations and in their homes. \n Lutheran Church of the Great Spirit Dreamcatchers: Their Meaning and Purpose \nPresenters: Rev. Char Giuliani and members of Lutheran Church of the Great Spirit \nWe will share who LCGS is and how we incorporate Lutheran liturgy and Indigenous culture (Smudging\, Four Directions Prayer)into our Worship\, sharing meaning behind each and definitions. Participants will also be able to make a dreamcatcher to take home. \n Milwaukee Wild Church: The Sacred Within \nPresenter: Rev. Larry Harpster \nThis workshop will share the birth story of the new Greater Milwaukee Synod mission community\, Milwaukee Wild Church.It will focus on: \n\n\nLearning about the Wild Church and Forest Church movement happening across the world. \n\n\nWhat is Nature Spirituality? \n\n\nWhat is Celtic Spirituality? \n\n\nHow can I incorporate nature spirituality into my existing community? \n\n\nWhat techniques can I try to lift up spirituality in my own personal life? \n\n\nYou will also get a chance to learn how you can partner with Milwaukee Wild Church as it grows and develops. \n Protecting All of God’s Children \nPresenters: Rev. Jenny Nettesheim and Rev. Myron Crawford \nJoin us as we discuss best practices around working with children. Topics will include: \n\n\nChild and vulnerable adult safety policies \n\n\nMandated reporting \n\n\nSetting boundaries \n\n\nRisk Prevention \n\n\nAwareness \n\n\nResponse Actions \n\n\nYou will leave this session feeling more confident in your and your church’s ability to protect our young people. \n“And he took the children in his arms\, placed his hands on them and blessed them.” — Mark 10:16 \n Seriously? Women in Ministry \nPresenter: Rev. Kristin Nielsen \nIn 2018\, a short video was created by the North Carolina Synod – ELCA\, to raise awareness about the sexism that women in ministry regularly faced from colleagues and parishioners. In this workshop\, we will watch the video\, and participate in facilitated discussion in small and large groups. \n Talking without Microaggressions \nPresenter: Deacon David Behling \nAs we seek to deepen and expand the holy work of welcome\, inclusion\, and celebration of LGBTQIA+ people in the church and in society\, we often find ourselves asking questions like “How can we be better allies for people we care about who are LGBTQIA+?” or “Are there things we say or do that unintentionally hurt LGBTQIA+ people?” or even “What does LGBTQIA+ mean?” \nThis workshop is for people who ask those types of questions\, and others. It will help those hoping to guide their faith community in ongoing education\, as well as individuals with an open heart and mind who want to learn more about God’s expansive diversity of creation. Participants will gain practical insight into recognizing\, interrupting\, and preventing microaggressions—ensuring our communities embody authentic welcome in both words and actions. \nTogether\, we can co-create safer and braver spaces as we learn the skills and tools that support a fully inclusive and welcoming ministry. \n Women of the ELCA – For Such a Time as This \nPresenters – Rev. Marilyn Miller and Mrs. Donna Yourell \nWe will Dwell in the Word using Esther 4: 1-17 and discuss\, what it means to be 21st Century disciples who follow Jesus “for such a time as this.” We will plan how we want to organize and operate as the Greater Milwaukee Synod’s – Synodical Women’s Organization (SWO). Finally\, we will share registration information about the upcoming Triennial Gathering\, “I Am Worthy” July 16 – 19\, in Des Moines\, Iowa. You will want to be there because you are worthy! Membership is open to congregation groups and individuals!  \nAfternoon Workshops 1:30 pm – 2:45 pm\n Are you wondering what might be next for your church? \nPresenter: Rev. Chris Marien \nIf you would rather focus on pondering the possibilities for the days ahead then tend to more of the same. You are invited to learn about a relatively simple approach to vision casting without the need of a costly outside consultant. Who better to dream about the future than the leadership of your own community of faith? Borrowing from the strategic planning of Harley Davidson\, come learn a simple process to craft a 1\,3\,5\, and/or 10-year vision for your congregation. Drawing on 25 years of ordained ministry in congregations on the West coast\, Pacific Northwest\, and in the Greater Milwaukee Synod – Pastor Chris will share the nuts and bolts of the process and provide you with the steps to guide you from “maintaining what is” to “tending what tomorrow might bring.” \n Church Property Resource Hub: Where Should We Begin? Exploring new strategies for faithful property stewardship \nPresenters: Sarah Jones and Sarah Kretchmann \nMany churches realize that the traditional models of property use\, management\, and financing no longer fit their current moment\, but can struggle with developing new stewardship strategies that are both practical and mission-driven.  The Church Property Resource Hub is a new\, Churchwide initiative to help leaders leverage their buildings and land for both mission impact and congregational vitality.  \n  \nJoin the Church Property Resource Hub team to learn about how your church can gain new understanding of your property’s potential\, explore new possibilities for property stewardship\, and discern how the Spirit is moving towards new life for your land and buildings.  Participants will leave with an understanding of what their congregation’s next steps for faithful\, practical property management might be and tools to help their leaders navigate the journey. \n Community Design Workshop \nPresenter: Tia Richardson \nThis is a fun\, engaging hands-on collaborative workshop where participants will have a chance to make a difference by sharing their ideas for a mural that expresses the heart of the synod community. No art experience required! Tia Richardson is a community artist whose work is seen around the Milwaukee area. The workshops offer people a chance to freely express their feelings\, acknowledging what they believe the challenges are with race relations in the synod community\, think of choices they believe can help make that better\, and imagine a brighter future as a result of those choices. People may choose one workshop to attend. *In-person film screening and discussion of Rockford Taking Flight is a pre-requisite to attend a session. This film will be shared during our opening presentation at Together in Mission. To learn more about Tia’s work\, visit www.cosmic-butterfly.com \nPlease note: This workshop is limited to 24 people. \n Don’t Just Do Something\, Sit There \nPresenters: Danette Braun and Sonja Wolfe \nExplore listening as a foundational practice for communal spiritual transformation—listening to God\, to one another\, and to the wisdom of neighbors. Participants will engage in simple active listening practices that are part of the Adventures in Renewal series\, practices that foster curiosity and open the way for Spirit-led discernment and community collaborations. Come and rediscover the transformative power of attentive presence. \n How to Have Hard Conversations \nPresenter: Rev. Afi Dobbins-Mays \nIf you have ever wondered\,”How do we start conversations about race in our congregation?” this workshop is a great place to begin to find an answer. In this workshop Pr. Afi will work with participants to discuss practical steps and/or ways to create space for beginning conversations about race. \n How to Start a Racial Equity and Justice Team in your Congregation \nPresenters: Racial Equity and Justice Team \nCome and learn what a racial justice team is and how others have started their own Racial Justice teams in their congregations. Use what you hear to create next steps for your own congregation. \n Leading in Ambiguous Times \nPresenter: Rhonda Hill \nIn uncertain times\, faith-rooted leaders are called to guide with clarity\, courage\, and compassion especially when the path forward is unclear. But what happens when leaders themselves feel uncertain or overwhelmed? This interactive workshop invites participants to reframe ambiguity as not just a challenge to overcome\, but as a sacred space for spiritual growth\, innovation\, and trust-building. \nFaith leaders have a unique ability to harness the unknown\, recognizing that uncertainty is often where spiritual growth\, deepening faith\, and transformative leadership emerge. Through strategic frameworks\, and cultural wisdom—including Indigenous and ancestral teachings leaders will explore how to foster psychological safety\, deepen relational trust\, and create actionable steps for navigating the unknown. \nTogether\, we’ll embrace ambiguity as an opportunity for collective transformation\, cultivating environments where uncertainty becomes a source of creativity\, resilience\, and spiritual joy. \n Legacy Giving \nPresenter: Rev. Chris Manke \nIf your congregation wants to financially thrive for the next 20\, 30\, or even 50 years—not just survive—this class will provide you with the roadmap. Legacy giving isn’t just about writing wills—it’s about planting seeds your congregation will rely on long after today’s budget is forgotten. In this session\, we’ll cut through the mystery and show you how to start (or strengthen) a legacy gift ministry in your own congregation\, step by step. You’ll learn practical tools\, simple workflows\, and future pathways that help your congregation leave meaningful\, faithful gifts that will impact the financial health of your congregation for decades to come. \nSpoiler Alert! This class is an intro teaser session for a significant learning opportunity that will be presented to our Synod after the completion of Together in Mission. \n Lunch Church Workshop \nPresenters: Rev. Sarah Stumme and Rev. Jaime Larson-McLoone \nBreakfast\, Lunch\, or Dinner Church: There are many ways to worship around a table. If our Together in Mission Lunch Church stirs your curiosity\, come and connect with others who want to learn more and those who have experiences\, ideas\, and resources to share. Come see what happens when we gather around a table with intention. Leave with inspiration and simple liturgies to try table-centered worship in your congregation or community. \n Walking with our Immigrant Neighbors \nPresenter: Bishop Paul Erickson \nIn this time of heightened anxiety for so many\, come and learn how to accompany and support our immigrant and refugee neighbors. Practical resources will be shared that will help your congregation become a more welcoming place for all. \n \n Register URL:https://milwaukeesynod.org/event/together-in-mission-2/ LOCATION:St. Matthew’s Lutheran Church – Wauwatosa\, 1615 Wauwatosa Avenue\, Wauwatosa\, WI\, 53213\, United States ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/avif:https://milwaukeesynod.org/wp-content/uploads/Together-in-Mission-Resources-Page-Website-Icon-2.avif ORGANIZER;CN="Greater Milwaukee Synod":MAILTO:gmsoffice@gmselca.org GEO:43.0521428;-88.0076945 X-APPLE-STRUCTURED-LOCATION;VALUE=URI;X-ADDRESS=St. Matthew’s Lutheran Church – Wauwatosa 1615 Wauwatosa Avenue Wauwatosa WI 53213 United States;X-APPLE-RADIUS=500;X-TITLE=1615 Wauwatosa Avenue:geo:-88.0076945,43.0521428 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20251202T183000 DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20251202T193000 DTSTAMP:20260310T192805Z CREATED:20251104T190105Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260310T192805Z UID:10001441-1764700200-1764703800@milwaukeesynod.org SUMMARY:Inspired for Mission Zoom Gathering: "Experiencing the Sacred in Creation" DESCRIPTION:Inspired for Mission Zoom Gathering: “Experiencing the Sacred in Creation”\n December 2\n @\n6:30 pm\n –\n7:30 pm \nJoin our synod’s Mission Table for “Inspired for Mission\,” a monthly virtual gatherings centered around inspiring stories of where God is leading our Church! \n  \nOur topic for December is “Experiencing the Sacred in Creation.” \nHear inspiring stories from the Milwaukee Wild Church team about how nature spirituality has influenced their lives. You’ll also learn a spiritual practice to help us connect with nature (even when we’re on Zoom)\, imagine how your congregation might incorporate nature spirituality\, and find out what’s happening next with Milwaukee Wild Church – and how to get connected.  \n  \nClick Here to Join Us on Zoom! Meeting ID: 893 9442 7865 Passcode: 445611 URL:https://milwaukeesynod.org/event/inspired-for-mission-experiencing-the-sacred-in-creation/ LOCATION:Online Event CATEGORIES:Inspired for Mission ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://milwaukeesynod.org/wp-content/uploads/GMS-Inspired-for-Mission_FB-Insta-Post_V1.png ORGANIZER;CN="Greater Milwaukee Synod":MAILTO:gmsoffice@gmselca.org END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20251106T083000 DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20251106T150000 DTSTAMP:20260107T013156Z CREATED:20250907T223403Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260107T013156Z UID:10001397-1762417800-1762441200@milwaukeesynod.org SUMMARY:Gender Justice Training DESCRIPTION:Gender Justice Training\n November 6\n @\n8:30 am\n –\n3:00 pm \nThis event is designed for Rostered Ministers only\n\n \n Holy Cross Lutheran Church \n \n\nW156 N8131 Pilgrim Road\n \n Menomonee Falls\,\n\n\n + Google Map \n\n \n 262-251-2740 \n \n \n \n \nThe synods of Region 5 (the synods in Illinois\, Iowa\, Wisconsin\, and the Northern Great Lakes Synod) are collaborating to present annual boundaries education for active rostered ministers. The purpose of this collaboration is\, in part\, to show a shared commitment to boundaries education across the region\, to create and sustain professional ministry leadership in our synods\, for safety in our communities of faith\, and to pool our resources in an effort to offer high quality educational events. \nThe collaborative boundaries education follows a three-year cycle covering Professional Boundaries\, Gender Justice\, and Racial Justice. \nThis year’s course is on Gender Justice and will be led in a hybrid format by Mary J. Streufert\, ELCA Director for Justice for Women. Our time together will focus on how gender injustice manifests itself in the ELCA\, how ELCA social statements can serve as a resource in our gender justice work\, and how we can begin the work to change the narrative in order to live out gender justice in our work and world. \nParticipants are expected to be present for the entire event and to engage with the material presented as fully as they are able. Coffee will be available at 8:30am and worship begins at 9am. \nIf you have any questions about this year’s Collaborative Boundaries Education Day\, please contact our office at 414.671.1212. \n \n Register Now URL:https://milwaukeesynod.org/event/gender-justice-training/ LOCATION:Holy Cross Lutheran Church\, W156 N8131 Pilgrim Road\, Menomonee Falls ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/avif:https://milwaukeesynod.org/wp-content/uploads/Header-With-Presenter.avif ORGANIZER;CN="Greater Milwaukee Synod":MAILTO:gmsoffice@gmselca.org GEO:43.1712528;-88.1019562 X-APPLE-STRUCTURED-LOCATION;VALUE=URI;X-ADDRESS=Holy Cross Lutheran Church W156 N8131 Pilgrim Road Menomonee Falls;X-APPLE-RADIUS=500;X-TITLE=W156 N8131 Pilgrim Road:geo:-88.1019562,43.1712528 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20251030T183000 DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20251030T200000 DTSTAMP:20251016T205100Z CREATED:20251016T161907Z LAST-MODIFIED:20251016T205100Z UID:10001440-1761849000-1761854400@milwaukeesynod.org SUMMARY:Immigration Forum DESCRIPTION:Immigration Forum\nOctober 30\n@\n6:30 pm\n–\n8:00 pm \n\nMartin Luther Lutheran Church \n9235 W. Bluemound RoadMilwaukee\,\nWI\n53226\nUnited States \n\n+ Google Map \n\n414-476-9411 \n \nYou may choose to attend this event in person or by zoom. \nThe Immigration and Refugee Ministry Team of the Greater Milwaukee Synod is sponsoring an immigration forum on Thursday\, October 30\, from 6:30-8:00 pm at Martin Luther Lutheran Church\, 9235 W. Bluemound Road\, Milwaukee. The event will also be live streamed.Tim Muth\, Senior Staff Attorney at ACLU of Wisconsin Foundation\, will be providing an overview of current issues related to immigration enforcement in Wisconsin\, covering such topics as: \n\nWhere is immigration enforcement happening in Wisconsin today?\nHow is local law enforcement involved with ICE?\nHow to prepare for ICE coming to your church\, school or place of work.\nKnow Your Rights in interactions with ICE and Law Enforcement. URL:https://milwaukeesynod.org/event/immigration-forum/ LOCATION:Martin Luther Lutheran Church\, 9235 W. Bluemound Road\, Milwaukee\, WI\, 53226\, United States ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/avif:https://milwaukeesynod.org/wp-content/uploads/FB_IMG_1760646502198-e1760647826377.webp ORGANIZER;CN="Greater Milwaukee Synod":MAILTO:gmsoffice@gmselca.org GEO:43.0354051;-88.0284309 X-APPLE-STRUCTURED-LOCATION;VALUE=URI;X-ADDRESS=Martin Luther Lutheran Church 9235 W. Bluemound Road Milwaukee WI 53226 United States;X-APPLE-RADIUS=500;X-TITLE=9235 W. Bluemound Road:geo:-88.0284309,43.0354051 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20251028T183000 DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20251028T193000 DTSTAMP:20260107T170005Z CREATED:20251008T194051Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260107T170005Z UID:10001439-1761676200-1761679800@milwaukeesynod.org SUMMARY:Inspired for Mission Zoom Gathering: Hunger Justice DESCRIPTION:  \nInspired for Mission Zoom Gathering: Hunger Justice\n October 28\n @\n6:30 pm\n –\n7:30 pm \nCome be inspired and encouraged as we gather across the Greater Milwaukee Synod to explore Food Justice Challenges and Opportunities on Tuesday\, October 28 at 6:30pm via Zoom. Together we’ll celebrate the ministries already feeding neighbors in body and spirit\, listen to stories of both struggle and hope\, and discover how God is calling us to respond. \nFeatured Voices and Greater Milwaukee Synod Hunger Justice Team Members: \n\n\nBrian Bolling\, (“Food Dude”) All Peoples Gathering\, Milwaukee \n\n\nCindy Dobberke\, Mount Olive\, Mukwonago \n\n\nWhether your congregation has an established feeding ministry or you’re simply curious about where to begin\, this evening offers connection\, practical ideas\, and Spirit-filled conversation. \n  \n“For I was hungry and you gave me food\, I was thirsty and you gave me drink…” \n—Matthew 25:35 \n  \nAll are welcome! Pastors\, lay leaders\, youth\, and anyone with a heart for justice are invited to join us in prayer\, learning\, and action as we seek to be Christ’s hands and feet in our communities. \nClick Here to Join Us on Zoom! \nMeeting ID: 858 4444 8390Passcode: 871139 \nWant More Resources to Grow your Outreach Ministries?\nThe Mission Table offers Inspired for Mission events monthly. You can access previous Inspired for Mission topics on the Greater Milwaukee Synod’s website under “Resources for Congregations/Mission & Innovation.”  URL:https://milwaukeesynod.org/event/hunger-justice/ LOCATION:Online Event CATEGORIES:Inspired for Mission ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://milwaukeesynod.org/wp-content/uploads/GMS-Inspired-for-Mission_FB-Insta-Post_V1.png ORGANIZER;CN="Greater Milwaukee Synod":MAILTO:gmsoffice@gmselca.org END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20251015T080000 DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20251015T160000 DTSTAMP:20260107T010721Z CREATED:20250922T173034Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260107T010721Z UID:10001407-1760515200-1760544000@milwaukeesynod.org SUMMARY:2025 Emergency Gun Violence Summit DESCRIPTION:2025 Emergency Gun Violence Summit\n October 15\n @\n8:00 am\n –\n4:00 pm \n\n \n Baird Center \n \n\n400 W. Wisconsin Ave\n \n Milwaukee\,\n WI\n 53203\n\n\n + Google Map \n\n \n \n \n\n \nFree Event – Registration is Required!\n \nGun violence is impacting every community across our state and our nation. It is time for action. This FREE event will provide the information you need to help reduce gun violence in your community and keep your family safe. This event has become one of the most comprehensive events of its type in the nation. Don’t’ miss this opportunity. Register today for this powerful and impactful event! \nPresentations and Panelists\n\n\nChildren’s Wisconsin Health System \n\n\nEverytown for Gun Safety – Moms Demand Action Froedtert & Medical College of Wisconsin \n\n\nJohns Hopkins Center for Gun Violence Solutions WAVE Educational Fund \n\n\nElected Officials Faith Leaders \n\n\nGun Violence Survivors Marquette Law School Poll \n\n\nWisconsin DoJ Office of School Safety & More! \n\n\nSummit Sessions \n\n\nGun Violence by the Numbers \n\n\nThe Journey from Victim\, to Survivor\, to Advocate \n\n\nSuicide & Guns:Preventing Child\, Adult & Veteran Suicide \n\n\nCommunity Violence Intervention Strategies \n\n\nFaith’s Calling For Gun Violence Prevention \n\n\nTaking A Comprehensive Approach to School Safety \n\n\nCommunity Violence Intervention Successes & Lessons \n\n\nGun Violence & Mental Health Trauma \n\n\nCommunity Impact: Pastor Perspectives \n\n\n\n\nPublic Perceptions of Crime & Gun Violence \n\n\nDomestic Violence & Firearms \n\n\nFrom 911 to the ER: First Responder Perspectives \n\n\nGun Violence: Student Perspectives \n\n\nResponsible Gun Ownership & Storage \n\n\nGun Violence\, Hate & Politics \n\n\nLegislative Solutions to Gun Violence \n\n\nGun Violence Survivor & Advocacy Resources \n\n\nTalking to Elected Officials & Advocacy Training \n\n\n \n Learn More & Register URL:https://milwaukeesynod.org/event/2025-emergency-gun-violence-summit/ LOCATION:Baird Center\, 400 W. Wisconsin Ave\, Milwaukee\, WI\, 53203 ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/avif:https://milwaukeesynod.org/wp-content/uploads/2025-EGVS-Graphic-with-City-Sponsor-only-size-modified-for-ticketspice-scaled.avif ORGANIZER;CN="Greater Milwaukee Synod":MAILTO:gmsoffice@gmselca.org GEO:43.0400994;-87.917473 X-APPLE-STRUCTURED-LOCATION;VALUE=URI;X-ADDRESS=Baird Center 400 W. Wisconsin Ave Milwaukee WI 53203;X-APPLE-RADIUS=500;X-TITLE=400 W. Wisconsin Ave:geo:-87.917473,43.0400994 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20250929 DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20251002 DTSTAMP:20260107T022628Z CREATED:20250327T132945Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260107T022628Z UID:10001376-1759104000-1759363199@milwaukeesynod.org SUMMARY:Fall Leadership Conference 2025 DESCRIPTION:Fall Leadership Conference 2025\n September 29\n –\n October 1 \n\n \n Lutherdale Bible Camp \n \n\nN7891 Hwy 12\n \n Elkhorn\,\n WI\n 53121\n United States\n\n\n + Google Map \n\n \n 262-742-2352 \n \n \n \n \n Rev. Dr. Yolanda Denson-Byers \nThe Rev. Dr. Yolanda Denson-Byers will join us for our Fall Leadership Conference (FLC). For the last 30 years\, she has served as a pastor\, preaching and teaching the good news in multiple arenas such as parish\, campus\, hospice\, hospital\, and prison ministries. \n  \nHer Master of Divinity was earned at Harvard University with specialty in preaching and worship\, religious education and pastoral care and counseling. Her doctor of Ministry is from Luther Seminary in Congregational Mission and Leadership. She currently serves as the senior pastor of Shepherd of the Hills Lutheran Church of Edina\, MN. \n  \nDuring FLC\, Pastor Yolanda will be teaching three 90-minute sessions focused on the theme: Costly Compassion: The Holy Work of Becoming an Ally in Your Neighborhood. \n \n  \nThe word “compassion” means to be with someone in their suffering. Especially in this time of deep division\, rancor\, and polarization in our nation’s history\, what does Jesus have to say to our most marginalized and oppressed neighbors? What divine mischief is the Holy Spirit instigating in our particular contexts? What does it mean to be an ally with the Holy Spirit\, and God’s beloved children\, dwelling in our neighborhoods? \n  \nUtilizing Pastor Yolanda’s book\, See Me\, Believe Me: A Guide to Deepen Allyship with Congregational Leaders of Color\, as a case study\, we will Dwell in the Word\, invite courageous conversation during our book study\, and leave with specific action items meant to better prepare us to enter into the holy work of God’s costly compassion toward all of our neighbors. \nAgenda\nMonday\, September 29 \n1:00 pm Registration Opens \n2:00 pm Welcome \n2:30 pm Session One: Warning Against Partiality (James 2:1-17) \n4:30 pm Free Time \n5:30 pm Dinner \n7:00 pm Worship and fellowship \n  \nTuesday\, September 30 \n8:00 am Breakfast \n9:00 am Session Two: See Me\, Believe Me: A Guide to Deepen Allyship with Congregational Leaders of Color \n11:00 am Bishop’s time \n12:00 pm Lunch \n1:00 pm Free time \n3:30 pm Open Space Conversations \n5:30 pm Dinner \n7:00 pm Bonfire and Fellowship  \n  \nWednesday\, October 1 \n8:00 am Breakfast \n9:00 am Session Three: The Holy Work of Becoming an Ally in Your Neighborhood \n11:00 am Sending \n  \nRegistration Information\nDeadline to register: September 12\, 2025 at 12pm (noon). \nBecause we incur expenses based on your registration\, payment is expected for all registrations. We respectfully request that all registrations be paid by September 29\, 2025. If you need to make other arrangements\, contact us directly at 414.671.1212. Please note: registrations cannot be cancelled after September 8th. \n  \nEvery person registered will receive a copy of Rev. Dr. Denson-Byer’s book “See Me\, Believe Me”. This book is included in your registration fee and will be mailed to the address you registered with when your registration is paid. If you already have a copy of this book\, consider giving the extra copy to another person. Books will be mailed up to September 13. After this date you’ll need to stop in the synod office to pick up your copy. Please take some time to read this before Fall Leadership Conference begins. \nMeals\nThe following meals are part of the conference agenda: September 29 \n\nDinner – 5:30 pm\n\nSeptember 30 \n\nBreakfast – 8:00 am\nLunch – 12:00 pm\nDinner – 5:30 pm\n\nOctober 1 \n\nBreakfast – 8:00 am\n\nLodging\nSeveral housing options are available for this event. You may choose to stay at Lutherdale in the Hope Center or the Watson Retreat Center. We encourage you to share costs for lodging by finding a roommate and noting that in your registration. Lodging at Lutherdale is on a first come/first served basis \n  \nArea hotels to consider are listed below. \n\nHampton Inn Elkhorn Lake Geneva\nHoliday Inn Express & Suites Elkhorn Lake Geneva\nFairfield Inn & Suites Lake Geneva\n\n \n Register Now URL:https://milwaukeesynod.org/event/fall-leadership-conference-2025/ LOCATION:Lutherdale Bible Camp\, N7891 Hwy 12\, Elkhorn\, WI\, 53121\, United States ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/avif:https://milwaukeesynod.org/wp-content/uploads/2025-Fall-Leadership-Conference_Insta-FB-Post.avif ORGANIZER;CN="Greater Milwaukee Synod":MAILTO:gmsoffice@gmselca.org GEO:42.6720715;-88.5435538 X-APPLE-STRUCTURED-LOCATION;VALUE=URI;X-ADDRESS=Lutherdale Bible Camp N7891 Hwy 12 Elkhorn WI 53121 United States;X-APPLE-RADIUS=500;X-TITLE=N7891 Hwy 12:geo:-88.5435538,42.6720715 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20250927 DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20250928 DTSTAMP:20250611T165135Z CREATED:20250219T174742Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250611T165135Z UID:10001374-1758931200-1759017599@milwaukeesynod.org SUMMARY:2025 Outreach for Hope Ride Run Walk Fundraiser DESCRIPTION: URL:http://OFHRRW.org ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/avif:https://milwaukeesynod.org/wp-content/uploads/OFH-RRW-Logo_color.avif ORGANIZER;CN="Greater Milwaukee Synod":MAILTO:gmsoffice@gmselca.org END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20250923T113000 DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20250923T123000 DTSTAMP:20260107T170006Z CREATED:20250917T192610Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260107T170006Z UID:10001401-1758627000-1758630600@milwaukeesynod.org SUMMARY:Inspired for Mission Zoom Gathering: "A Faithful Response to Artificial Intelligence" DESCRIPTION:Inspired for Mission Zoom Gathering: “A Faithful Response to Artificial Intelligence”\nSeptember 23\, 2025\n@\n11:30 am\n–\n12:30 pm\nCDT \nJoin our synod’s Mission Table for “Inspired for Mission\,” a monthly virtual gatherings centered around inspiring stories of where God is leading our Church! \nOur topic for September is “A Faithful Response to Artificial Intelligence.” \nLike it or not\, AI is here and it is changing how certain tasks are done\, including in the church. AI can certainly make some tasks more efficient\, and as people perpetually strapped for time\, that’s not a bad thing. \n  \nBut how do we view it as people of faith? What are the ethical implications? \n  \nRyan Panzer\, writer and thinker at the intersection of technology and the church\, will help us consider these topics. Less of a “how-to” than a “why-to” or “why not-to” … we will wonder together about the good of this part of creation and how it impacts our vocation as human beings. \n\n\nClick Here to Join Us on Zoom!\n\nMeeting ID: 811 3556 1989\nPasscode: 666981 URL:https://milwaukeesynod.org/event/i4m-ai/ LOCATION:Online Event CATEGORIES:Inspired for Mission ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://milwaukeesynod.org/wp-content/uploads/GMS-Inspired-for-Mission_FB-Insta-Post_V1.png ORGANIZER;CN="Greater Milwaukee Synod":MAILTO:gmsoffice@gmselca.org END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20250921T170000 DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20250921T190000 DTSTAMP:20260107T014524Z CREATED:20250826T013059Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260107T014524Z UID:10001392-1758474000-1758481200@milwaukeesynod.org SUMMARY:Immigrants in Crisis: Our Stories DESCRIPTION:Immigrants in Crisis: Our Stories\n September 21\, 2025\n @\n5:00 pm\n –\n7:00 pm \n\n \n United Methodist Church of Whitefish Bay \n \n\n810 East Silver Spring Drive\n \n Whitefish Bay\,\n WI\n 53217\n\n\n + Google Map \n\n \n \n \n\n View Venue Website \n \n \nA panel of immigration experts will discuss who immigrants are\, the persecution they are experiencing today and how it is affecting their lives. We want to tell the stories of our immigrants – their hopes and dreams and the displacement and fear they are currently feeling. There will be time for break-out discussion\, questions and connections during the event and at the reception following.  \n \nThis even is free and open to all. Please register at the link below. \n \n Register Now URL:https://milwaukeesynod.org/event/immigrants-in-crisis-our-stories/ LOCATION:United Methodist Church of Whitefish Bay\, 810 East Silver Spring Drive\, Whitefish Bay\, WI\, 53217 ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/avif:https://milwaukeesynod.org/wp-content/uploads/Screenshot-2025-08-25-at-8.02.56-PM.avif ORGANIZER;CN="Greater Milwaukee Synod":MAILTO:gmsoffice@gmselca.org GEO:43.1186704;-87.9006359 X-APPLE-STRUCTURED-LOCATION;VALUE=URI;X-ADDRESS=United Methodist Church of Whitefish Bay 810 East Silver Spring Drive Whitefish Bay WI 53217;X-APPLE-RADIUS=500;X-TITLE=810 East Silver Spring Drive:geo:-87.9006359,43.1186704 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20250912T180000 DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20250912T200000 DTSTAMP:20250826T011430Z CREATED:20250825T195727Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250826T011430Z UID:10001391-1757700000-1757707200@milwaukeesynod.org SUMMARY:A Binding Truth DESCRIPTION:A Binding Truth\n September 12\n @\n6:00 pm\n –\n8:00 pm \n\n \n United Methodist Church of Whitefish Bay \n \n\n810 East Silver Spring Drive\n \n Whitefish Bay\,\n WI\n 53217\n\n\n + Google Map \n\n \n \n \n\n View Venue Website \n \n \nFrom Whirlygig Productions: \n“Jimmie transferred his senior year to an affluent Charlotte high school in 1965 – he was their first Black football star. That decision swept him into one of North Carolina’s most volatile civil rights cases\, played out at the explosive intersection of football and race. De watched that case unfold and wrote about it in his college essay application. Decades later\, a shocking discovery reveals secrets buried in church records that would change their lives. Their story\, rooted in the South\, is also America’s story – one of slavery’s legacy and our current racial divide. It’s a story of healing and shows a way forward as Jimmie and De explore their binding truth.” \n  \nFollowing the film\, Fessahaye Mebrantu\, an expert on racial justice\, will provide commentary and insights for achieving racial reconciliation in Milwaukee. A reception will follow. This event is free and we encourage you to register below. \n \n Register Now URL:https://milwaukeesynod.org/event/a-binding-truth/ LOCATION:United Methodist Church of Whitefish Bay\, 810 East Silver Spring Drive\, Whitefish Bay\, WI\, 53217 CATEGORIES:Anti-Racism ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/avif:https://milwaukeesynod.org/wp-content/uploads/Screenshot-2025-08-25-at-1.27.20-PM.avif ORGANIZER;CN="Greater Milwaukee Synod":MAILTO:gmsoffice@gmselca.org GEO:43.1186704;-87.9006359 X-APPLE-STRUCTURED-LOCATION;VALUE=URI;X-ADDRESS=United Methodist Church of Whitefish Bay 810 East Silver Spring Drive Whitefish Bay WI 53217;X-APPLE-RADIUS=500;X-TITLE=810 East Silver Spring Drive:geo:-87.9006359,43.1186704 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20250907 DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20250908 DTSTAMP:20250219T174018Z CREATED:20250219T174018Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250219T174018Z UID:10001373-1757203200-1757289599@milwaukeesynod.org SUMMARY:“God’s work. Our hands.” Sunday 2025 DESCRIPTION: URL:https://www.elca.org/our-work/congregations-and-synods/gods-work-our-hands-sunday ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/avif:https://milwaukeesynod.org/wp-content/uploads/Gods-Work-Our-Hands-2025-save-the-date.avif ORGANIZER;CN="Greater Milwaukee Synod":MAILTO:gmsoffice@gmselca.org END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20250530T160000 DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20250531T160000 DTSTAMP:20260112T211443Z CREATED:20240620T170207Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260112T211443Z UID:10001338-1748620800-1748707200@milwaukeesynod.org SUMMARY:Synod Assembly 2025 DESCRIPTION:Synod Assembly 2025\n\n May 30\, 2025\n @\n4:00 pm\n –\n May 31\, 2025\n @\n4:00 pm\n \n\n Brookfield Conference Center\n\n325 South Moorland Road\n \n Brookfield\,\n WI\n 53005\n United States\n\n\n + Google Map \n \nSynod Assembly takes place each spring and brings together voting members from congregations to discuss and vote on resolutions\, elect synod council and committee representatives\, consider finances\, and other business. \nBefore you begin the registration process\, please check out our “things to know before you register” information below. \n \n Register Now\n \n \n Sign Up: Youth Worship Volunteer & WhirlyBall Social\n \n\n Our theme for this year’s Assembly is “Compassion: Spirit\, Open Our Hearts.” This name and our selection of artwork by Robyn Sand Anderson was inspired by our core value of compassion and the hymn\, “Spirit\, Open My Heart.”\n\n\n\n \n \n\n Rev. Khader El-Yateem\n \n\n\n\n \n \n\n Tyra Dennis\n \n\n \nFriday Evening Events\nOn Friday evening\, we will welcome Rev. Khader El-Yateem as our keynote dinner speaker.  Synod Assembly registrants will receive a dinner ticket when they arrive. Non-registrants may purchase a ticket here. \nAfter dinner\, Tyra Dennis will lead an energetic and contemporary-style worship; this service is open to all\, and it is not necessary to register to attend worship. \n\n\n\n \n \n\n Photo Credit: Wikimedia Commons\n \n\n \nCalling All Youth!\n\n\nFriday Evening Worship Volunteers: We’d love for youth to serve as readers\, ushers\, communion assistants\, and more. \n\n\nWhirlyBall Social: After worship\, we’re inviting youth and chaperones/leaders to gather at WhirlyBall in Brookfield Square. Bishop Erickson and Tyra Dennis have promised to WhirlyBall\, too! \n\n\nLearn more and sign up here. \nImportant Dates\n\n\nApril 30\, 2025: Final day of early bird pricing   \n\n\nMay 1\, 2025: Registration prices increase  \n\n\nMay 14\, 2025: Cancellation deadline \n\n\nMay 14\, 2025 – Advance registration closes (including registrations with childcare) \n\n\n2025 Registration Fees\n\n\nVoting Members/Non-voting members: $245 (early bird pricing – register by April 30)/$270 (standard pricing – register May 1 or later) \n\n\nRetired Rostered Ministers\, Youth\, Young Adults: $145 (early bird pricing – register by April 30)/$170 (standard pricing – register May 1 or later) \n\n\nThings to Know Before You Register\n\n\n How are Voting Members Determined?\n \n\nAll actively serving rostered ministers (pastors and deacons) are voting members at Synod Assembly. They do not count towards your lay voting member limits.\nRetired rostered ministers who wish to attend as a voting member must contact the synod office prior to registering.  Retired Rostered Ministers do not register as a lay voting member of a congregation. Learn more by visiting the Retired Rostered Minister Voting Information tab below.\nThe number of lay voting members your congregation elects depends on the number of baptized members reported on your 2023 congregational report form A. We encourage congregations to choose voting members who will represent a range of age\, ethnicity\, and gender whenever possible. Use our handy chart to see how many voting lay people your congregation can register for Synod Assembly. This page also includes some helpful FAQs about voting members.\n\nAll congregations may elect at least two lay voting members to the Synod Assembly.\nCongregations having 750 to 1\,249 baptized members may elect a third lay voting member. Thereafter an additional lay voting member may be added for each additional 500 baptized members of the congregation (e.g. at 1\,250 members\, 1\,750 members\, etc.).\nAll congregations may add one voting member to the number allotted if that additional member is a youth or young adult (30 or younger when elected).\n\n\n\n\n\n\n Registration\n \n \n Register Now\n \nImportant Dates \n\n\nApril 30\, 2025: Final day of early bird pricing   \n\n\nMay 1\, 2025: Registration prices increase  \n\n\nMay 14\, 2025: Cancellation deadline \n\n\nMay 14\, 2025 – Advance registration closes (including registrations with childcare) \n\n\n2025 Registration Fees \n\n\nVoting Members/Non-voting members: $245 (early bird pricing – register by April 30)/$270 (standard pricing – register May 1 or later) \n\n\nRetired Rostered Ministers\, Youth\,Young Adults: $145 (early bird pricing – register by April 30)/$170 (standard pricing – register May 1 or later) \n\n\nWalk-in registration ($170/$270) will be available beginning May 30. Meals are not guaranteed for walk-in registrations. \nWe respectfully request that all registrations (including walk-ins) be paid by May 31\, 2025. If you need to make other arrangements\, please contact us directly at 414.671.1212. \n\n\n\n Childcare\n \nOur childcare room is staffed by a paid and background-checked team of adults. Children must be pre-registered for childcare; we are unable to accommodate children that are not pre-registered. We hire providers based on the number and ages of registered children. \n  \nChildcare is available for children 6 weeks through five years old. If you have older children we’ll do our best to provide childcare for them. Please contact the office for details about childcare for older children at 414.671.1212. \n  \nChildren will have Friday dinner and Saturday lunch in the childcare room. Parents should plan to send their own snacks\, diapers\, comfort items and shareable toys with their child. \n  \nParents of registered children: Please take a few minutes to fill this form in before you arrive for assembly: Child care form. You will turn this form in to the child care providers. \nIMPORTANT!! Our childcare providers have received background checks and they are compensated for their time. If you find you won’t need childcare after registering we would appreciate a phone call. \n\n\n\n Retired Rostered Minister Voting Information\n \nIn accordance with the bylaw adopted at the 2022 assembly\, the number of retired rostered ministers serving as voting members shall not exceed 15% of the retired roster. All other retired ministers rostered in this synod shall be advisory members to the Synod Assembly\, with voice\, but not vote. For 2025\, the number of voting members from the retired roster is 22 (15% of the 148 retired rostered ministers in the synod as of 12/31/24). \nRetired rostered ministers do not register as lay voting members of a congregation. \nRetired rostered ministers serving under contract in transitional ministries are automatically granted voting privileges. \nRetired rostered ministers who are NOT serving under contract in transitional ministries must contact Mary Romskog  (414.671.1212) in the synod office by March 31\, 2025 prior to registering. If there are more than 22 retired rostered ministers who express interest in serving as a voting member\, we will conduct a vote\, allowing you\, as the retired rostered ministers\, to decide who will be the voting members. \nIf we reach the limit of 22 retired rostered ministers with voting privileges\, additional retired rostered ministers are welcome to register as non-voting members and are allowed to speak on all matters before the assembly.  \n\n\n\n Simple Agenda\n \nA more detailed agenda will be available closer to the Assembly. \nTuesday\, May 27 (pre-Assembly) \n\n\n6:30 pm – Assembly Orientation via zoom \n\n\n7:30 pm – Resolutions Hearing via zoom \n\n\nWednesday\, May 28 (pre-Assembly) \n\n\n6:30 pm – Budget Hearing via zoom \n\n\nFriday\, May 30 (Assembly\, Day 1) \n\n\n2:00 pm – Registration opens \n\n\n4:00 pm – Plenary 1 \n\n\n5:15 pm – Dinner and Keynote with Rev. Khader El-Yateem \n\n\n7:00 pm – Worship with Tyra Dennis \n\n\nSaturday\, May 31 (Assembly\, Day 2) \n\n\n7:30 am – Registration opens \n\n\n8:30 am – Plenary 2 \n\n\n10:00 am – Break \n\n\n12pm – Lunch \n\n\n1:15 pm – Plenary 3 \n\n\n2:15 pm – Break \n\n\n4:00 pm – Sending \n\n\n\n\n\n Information for Voting Members\n \nPlease check this page for updated information that will assist you as you prepare to attend Synod Assembly. \nHere are a few tips to get started: \n\n\nMaterials and information will be shared directly with voting members at the email address you provide when you register. This includes information for voting during assembly. \n\n\nIf your email address changes or you are not receiving information starting in May\, please contact us immediately. \n\n\nSynod Assembly work includes being informed about the resolutions\, rules\, constitutional amendments\, elected positions and more that will be presented.   \n\n\nWe strongly encourage you to take the time to read through the information and be prepared for discussion and voting during assembly. \n\n\nLearn more by visiting the Resources to prepare for Assembly section below. \n\n\n\n\n\n Worship and Offering\n \nOne of the most important things we do at synod assembly work is to worship together. This is a time to ground us in the word of God\, bring us together as the body of Christ\, and help us prayerfully reflect and prepare for the work ahead. \nOur Synod Assembly worship service is scheduled for Friday\, May 30\, 2025 at 7:00 pm. \nThis year’s worship will be energetic and contemporary\, in the style of the ELCA Youth Gathering. We encourage congregations to invite their youth and young adult members to attend! \nThis service is open to all. It is not necessary to register to attend worship. You do not need to be a voting member of the assembly to attend worship. \n \n DOWNLOAD: Church Promo Kit (Bulletin Inserts & More!)\n \nOpportunities for High School Youth\n\n Photo Credit: Wikimedia Commons\nWorship Volunteers: We’d love for youth to serve as readers\, ushers\, communion assistants\, and more. \nWhirlyBall Social: After worship\, we’re inviting youth and chaperones/leaders to gather at WhirlyBall in Brookfield Square. Bishop Erickson and our worship leader\, Tyra Dennis\, have promised to WhirlyBall\, too! \n \n Sign Up: Youth Worship Volunteer & WhirlyBall Social\n \nTyra Dennis\, Worship Leader\n \nTyra Dennis\, better known as “Tyralucia\,” was born and raised in Los Angeles\, California and has always been drawn to the stage by her talents: singing\, composing music\, playing the piano (as well as 11 other various instruments)\, acting and writing. The singer\, songwriter and musician has accomplished so much and continues to excel beyond expectations\, from performing with the greats such as Chaka Kahn\, Stevie Wonder\, Rock & Roll Hall of Fame member Jackson Browne\, Ray Charles and Slash from Guns and Roses while still being in high school to having a key role in developing and starring in the first Apple iPod commercial. Tyra’s work spans across all music genres and audiences. Tyra has also always made it important to share her blessings with others and does so\, among other music and philanthropic efforts\, with Music Mayhem; a full service entertainment company specializing in music production\, artist development\, talent management and event curation which she founded in 2012. She has also opened for Grammy winner Eric Bellinger during 2014’s Stand Against Autism Benefit Concert\, which was one of her philanthropic efforts. She has worked with the likes of Ike Turner\, YoYo\, Herbie Hancock\, Izzy The Kidd\, Symbolyc One\, Andre Merrit\, First Born\, Soaky Siren\, Kevin McCall and more. Not only did she perform with those acclaimed musical masterminds\, she also recorded an upbeat swinging version of “Let The Good Times Roll” with Ray Charles and Slash from Guns and Roses. \n\nSince 2016\, Tyra has been able to show her passion for worship and love for Christ by becoming a worship leader within the ELCA (Evangelical Lutheran Church of America) when answering the call to serve at Another Level Ministries. She has led the music for many events\, including but not limited to Western States Youth Gathering (WYLE)\, Theoasis (SYC Synod)\, Synod Assembly (SWC Synod)\, ELCA Gathering\, Extravaganza and more. She is honored to use her gift in a way that elevates God’s kingdom and gives back to the one that has given her everything. \n \n Read Tyra’s Full Bio\n \nAssembly Offering\nThis year’s offering will go to support the work of the Evangelical Lutheran Church of Jordan and the Holy Land (ELCJHL). Our keynote speaker\, the Rev. Khader El-Yateem\, is a native of Bethlehem\, Palestine\, and he is one of the many gifts that comes from the Lutheran Church in that fractured part of the world. The ELCJHL has six congregations and operates four K-12 schools in Ramallah\, Beit Jala\, Bethlehem and Beit Sahour. Each year\, the ELCJHL schools serve more than 3\,000 students. The ELCJHL also has four additional ministries; the Gender Justice Ministry\, the office of which is housed in the main offices of the Church of the Redeemer in Jerusalem\, the Environmental Education Center located on the Talitha Kumi campus in Beit Jala\, the Diaconal Ministry\, which is housed in the offices of Beit Ibrahim\, and a Youth Ministry. Their congregations and communities have suffered greatly during the Israel-Hamas war\, and our gift will be a sign of solidarity and support. \n\n\n\n Dinner Tickets and Keynote Speaker\n \nOur Synod Assembly dinner is scheduled for Friday\, May 30\, 2025 at 5:00 pm. \nDinner tickets are included for all registered members. If you would like to attend the dinner\, but are not registering for the entire assembly\, use the button below to purchase dinner tickets. \n \n Purchase Individual Dinner Tickets\n \n \n DOWNLOAD: Church Promo Kit (Bulletin Inserts & More!)\n \nDinner guests are also invited to attend the worship service that follows. (No registration is necessary to attend worship.) \nRev. Khader El-Yateem\, Keynote Speaker\n \nThe Rev. Khader El-Yateem is the Executive Director of the Service and Justice home area of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America (ELCA). \nPastor El-Yateem has served as Assistant to the Bishop and Director for Evangelical Mission with the ELCA Florida-Bahamas Synod. Prior to joining the synod staff\, he served as pastor of Salam Arabic Lutheran Church in Brooklyn\, N.Y.\, a congregation he started as a mission developer in 1995. El-Yateem also worked in patient relations at Maimonides Medical Center in Brooklyn from 2010 to 2017 and was chief financial officer at Bethlehem Bible College in Bethlehem from 1990 to 1992. \nBorn and raised in Bethlehem\, El-Yateem received his Bachelor of Theology from Bethlehem Bible College in 1989 and his Bachelor of Theology and World Religions from the Evangelical Theological Seminary in Cairo in 1991. He received his Master of Divinity degree from the Lutheran Theological Seminary at Philadelphia (now United Seminary) in 1996. \n\n\nAll actively serving rostered ministers (pastors and deacons) are voting members at Synod Assembly. They do not count towards your lay voting member limits.\nRetired rostered ministers who wish to attend as a voting member must contact the synod office prior to registering.  Retired Rostered Ministers do not register as a lay voting member of a congregation. Learn more by visiting the Retired Rostered Minister Voting Information tab below.\nThe number of lay voting members your congregation elects depends on the number of baptized members reported on your 2023 congregational report form A. We encourage congregations to choose voting members who will represent a range of age\, ethnicity\, and gender whenever possible. Use our handy chart to see how many voting lay people your congregation can register for Synod Assembly. This page also includes some helpful FAQs about voting members.\n\nAll congregations may elect at least two lay voting members to the Synod Assembly.\nCongregations having 750 to 1\,249 baptized members may elect a third lay voting member. Thereafter an additional lay voting member may be added for each additional 500 baptized members of the congregation (e.g. at 1\,250 members\, 1\,750 members\, etc.).\nAll congregations may add one voting member to the number allotted if that additional member is a youth or young adult (30 or younger when elected).\n\n\n\n \n Register Now\n \nImportant Dates \n\n\nApril 30\, 2025: Final day of early bird pricing   \n\n\nMay 1\, 2025: Registration prices increase  \n\n\nMay 14\, 2025: Cancellation deadline \n\n\nMay 14\, 2025 – Advance registration closes (including registrations with childcare) \n\n\n2025 Registration Fees \n\n\nVoting Members/Non-voting members: $245 (early bird pricing – register by April 30)/$270 (standard pricing – register May 1 or later) \n\n\nRetired Rostered Ministers\, Youth\,Young Adults: $145 (early bird pricing – register by April 30)/$170 (standard pricing – register May 1 or later) \n\n\nWalk-in registration ($170/$270) will be available beginning May 30. Meals are not guaranteed for walk-in registrations. \nWe respectfully request that all registrations (including walk-ins) be paid by May 31\, 2025. If you need to make other arrangements\, please contact us directly at 414.671.1212. \nOur childcare room is staffed by a paid and background-checked team of adults. Children must be pre-registered for childcare; we are unable to accommodate children that are not pre-registered. We hire providers based on the number and ages of registered children. \n  \nChildcare is available for children 6 weeks through five years old. If you have older children we’ll do our best to provide childcare for them. Please contact the office for details about childcare for older children at 414.671.1212. \n  \nChildren will have Friday dinner and Saturday lunch in the childcare room. Parents should plan to send their own snacks\, diapers\, comfort items and shareable toys with their child. \n  \nParents of registered children: Please take a few minutes to fill this form in before you arrive for assembly: Child care form. You will turn this form in to the child care providers. \nIMPORTANT!! Our childcare providers have received background checks and they are compensated for their time. If you find you won’t need childcare after registering we would appreciate a phone call. \nIn accordance with the bylaw adopted at the 2022 assembly\, the number of retired rostered ministers serving as voting members shall not exceed 15% of the retired roster. All other retired ministers rostered in this synod shall be advisory members to the Synod Assembly\, with voice\, but not vote. For 2025\, the number of voting members from the retired roster is 22 (15% of the 148 retired rostered ministers in the synod as of 12/31/24). \nRetired rostered ministers do not register as lay voting members of a congregation. \nRetired rostered ministers serving under contract in transitional ministries are automatically granted voting privileges. \nRetired rostered ministers who are NOT serving under contract in transitional ministries must contact Mary Romskog  (414.671.1212) in the synod office by March 31\, 2025 prior to registering. If there are more than 22 retired rostered ministers who express interest in serving as a voting member\, we will conduct a vote\, allowing you\, as the retired rostered ministers\, to decide who will be the voting members. \nIf we reach the limit of 22 retired rostered ministers with voting privileges\, additional retired rostered ministers are welcome to register as non-voting members and are allowed to speak on all matters before the assembly.  \nA more detailed agenda will be available closer to the Assembly. \nTuesday\, May 27 (pre-Assembly) \n\n\n6:30 pm – Assembly Orientation via zoom \n\n\n7:30 pm – Resolutions Hearing via zoom \n\n\nWednesday\, May 28 (pre-Assembly) \n\n\n6:30 pm – Budget Hearing via zoom \n\n\nFriday\, May 30 (Assembly\, Day 1) \n\n\n2:00 pm – Registration opens \n\n\n4:00 pm – Plenary 1 \n\n\n5:15 pm – Dinner and Keynote with Rev. Khader El-Yateem \n\n\n7:00 pm – Worship with Tyra Dennis \n\n\nSaturday\, May 31 (Assembly\, Day 2) \n\n\n7:30 am – Registration opens \n\n\n8:30 am – Plenary 2 \n\n\n10:00 am – Break \n\n\n12pm – Lunch \n\n\n1:15 pm – Plenary 3 \n\n\n2:15 pm – Break \n\n\n4:00 pm – Sending \n\n\nPlease check this page for updated information that will assist you as you prepare to attend Synod Assembly. \nHere are a few tips to get started: \n\n\nMaterials and information will be shared directly with voting members at the email address you provide when you register. This includes information for voting during assembly. \n\n\nIf your email address changes or you are not receiving information starting in May\, please contact us immediately. \n\n\nSynod Assembly work includes being informed about the resolutions\, rules\, constitutional amendments\, elected positions and more that will be presented.   \n\n\nWe strongly encourage you to take the time to read through the information and be prepared for discussion and voting during assembly. \n\n\nLearn more by visiting the Resources to prepare for Assembly section below. \n\n\nOne of the most important things we do at synod assembly work is to worship together. This is a time to ground us in the word of God\, bring us together as the body of Christ\, and help us prayerfully reflect and prepare for the work ahead. \nOur Synod Assembly worship service is scheduled for Friday\, May 30\, 2025 at 7:00 pm. \nThis year’s worship will be energetic and contemporary\, in the style of the ELCA Youth Gathering. We encourage congregations to invite their youth and young adult members to attend! \nThis service is open to all. It is not necessary to register to attend worship. You do not need to be a voting member of the assembly to attend worship. \n \n DOWNLOAD: Church Promo Kit (Bulletin Inserts & More!)\n \nOpportunities for High School Youth\n\n Photo Credit: Wikimedia Commons\nWorship Volunteers: We’d love for youth to serve as readers\, ushers\, communion assistants\, and more. \nWhirlyBall Social: After worship\, we’re inviting youth and chaperones/leaders to gather at WhirlyBall in Brookfield Square. Bishop Erickson and our worship leader\, Tyra Dennis\, have promised to WhirlyBall\, too! \n \n Sign Up: Youth Worship Volunteer & WhirlyBall Social\n \nTyra Dennis\, Worship Leader\n \nTyra Dennis\, better known as “Tyralucia\,” was born and raised in Los Angeles\, California and has always been drawn to the stage by her talents: singing\, composing music\, playing the piano (as well as 11 other various instruments)\, acting and writing. The singer\, songwriter and musician has accomplished so much and continues to excel beyond expectations\, from performing with the greats such as Chaka Kahn\, Stevie Wonder\, Rock & Roll Hall of Fame member Jackson Browne\, Ray Charles and Slash from Guns and Roses while still being in high school to having a key role in developing and starring in the first Apple iPod commercial. Tyra’s work spans across all music genres and audiences. Tyra has also always made it important to share her blessings with others and does so\, among other music and philanthropic efforts\, with Music Mayhem; a full service entertainment company specializing in music production\, artist development\, talent management and event curation which she founded in 2012. She has also opened for Grammy winner Eric Bellinger during 2014’s Stand Against Autism Benefit Concert\, which was one of her philanthropic efforts. She has worked with the likes of Ike Turner\, YoYo\, Herbie Hancock\, Izzy The Kidd\, Symbolyc One\, Andre Merrit\, First Born\, Soaky Siren\, Kevin McCall and more. Not only did she perform with those acclaimed musical masterminds\, she also recorded an upbeat swinging version of “Let The Good Times Roll” with Ray Charles and Slash from Guns and Roses. \n\nSince 2016\, Tyra has been able to show her passion for worship and love for Christ by becoming a worship leader within the ELCA (Evangelical Lutheran Church of America) when answering the call to serve at Another Level Ministries. She has led the music for many events\, including but not limited to Western States Youth Gathering (WYLE)\, Theoasis (SYC Synod)\, Synod Assembly (SWC Synod)\, ELCA Gathering\, Extravaganza and more. She is honored to use her gift in a way that elevates God’s kingdom and gives back to the one that has given her everything. \n \n Read Tyra’s Full Bio\n \nAssembly Offering\nThis year’s offering will go to support the work of the Evangelical Lutheran Church of Jordan and the Holy Land (ELCJHL). Our keynote speaker\, the Rev. Khader El-Yateem\, is a native of Bethlehem\, Palestine\, and he is one of the many gifts that comes from the Lutheran Church in that fractured part of the world. The ELCJHL has six congregations and operates four K-12 schools in Ramallah\, Beit Jala\, Bethlehem and Beit Sahour. Each year\, the ELCJHL schools serve more than 3\,000 students. The ELCJHL also has four additional ministries; the Gender Justice Ministry\, the office of which is housed in the main offices of the Church of the Redeemer in Jerusalem\, the Environmental Education Center located on the Talitha Kumi campus in Beit Jala\, the Diaconal Ministry\, which is housed in the offices of Beit Ibrahim\, and a Youth Ministry. Their congregations and communities have suffered greatly during the Israel-Hamas war\, and our gift will be a sign of solidarity and support. \nOur Synod Assembly dinner is scheduled for Friday\, May 30\, 2025 at 5:00 pm. \nDinner tickets are included for all registered members. If you would like to attend the dinner\, but are not registering for the entire assembly\, use the button below to purchase dinner tickets. \n \n Purchase Individual Dinner Tickets\n \n \n DOWNLOAD: Church Promo Kit (Bulletin Inserts & More!)\n \nDinner guests are also invited to attend the worship service that follows. (No registration is necessary to attend worship.) \nRev. Khader El-Yateem\, Keynote Speaker\n \nThe Rev. Khader El-Yateem is the Executive Director of the Service and Justice home area of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America (ELCA). \nPastor El-Yateem has served as Assistant to the Bishop and Director for Evangelical Mission with the ELCA Florida-Bahamas Synod. Prior to joining the synod staff\, he served as pastor of Salam Arabic Lutheran Church in Brooklyn\, N.Y.\, a congregation he started as a mission developer in 1995. El-Yateem also worked in patient relations at Maimonides Medical Center in Brooklyn from 2010 to 2017 and was chief financial officer at Bethlehem Bible College in Bethlehem from 1990 to 1992. \nBorn and raised in Bethlehem\, El-Yateem received his Bachelor of Theology from Bethlehem Bible College in 1989 and his Bachelor of Theology and World Religions from the Evangelical Theological Seminary in Cairo in 1991. He received his Master of Divinity degree from the Lutheran Theological Seminary at Philadelphia (now United Seminary) in 1996. \nResources to Prepare for Assembly\n\n\n Detailed Agenda\n \nTuesday\, May 27 (pre-Assembly) \n\n\n6:30 pm – Assembly Orientation via zoom \n\n\n7:30 pm – Resolutions Hearing via zoom \n\n\nJoin Zoom Meeting:https://us02web.zoom.us/j/89303550254?pwd=ARXGuL8wABYCcbJG52BcKmSzmuOeui.1  \nMeeting ID: 893 0355 0254 Passcode: 327080 \nWednesday\, May 28 (pre-Assembly) \n\n\n6:30 pm – Budget Hearing via zoom \n\n\nJoin Zoom Meeting:https://us02web.zoom.us/j/89303550254?pwd=ARXGuL8wABYCcbJG52BcKmSzmuOeui.1  \nMeeting ID: 893 0355 0254 Passcode: 327080 \nFriday\, May 30 (Assembly\, Day 1) \n\n\n2:00 pm – Registration opens \n\n\n4:00 pm – Plenary 1 \n\n\nWelcome \nLand Acknowledgment \nOpening of the Assembly \nOrientation and Welcome Special Guests \nInterfaith Greetings \nReport of the Credentials Committee \nAssembly Appointments \nAdoption of Agenda \nApproval of Rules and Procedures \nNominations Report \nReference and Counsel Report \n\n\n5:15 pm – Dinner and Keynote with Rev. Khader El-Yateem \n\n\n7:00 pm – Worship with Tyra Dennis \n\n\n8:15 pm – Dessert Reception \n\n\nSaturday\, May 31 (Assembly\, Day 2) \n\n\n7:30 am – Registration opens/Breakfast available \n\n\n8:30 am – Plenary 2 \n\n\nDevotion  \nOrientation/Review \nBudget Presentation \nBishop Report  \nDevotion \nBreak \nFirst Ballot for Open Positions \nVice President Report \nReport of the First Ballot \nAction on the Budget \nResolutions \n\n\n12pm – Lunch \n\n\n1:15 pm – Plenary 3 \n\n\nDevotion \nReport of the Credentials Committee \nSecond Ballot for Open Positions \nELCA Representative Report \nDevotion \nBreak \nReport of the Second Ballot \nThird Ballot for Open Positions \nResolutions \nInstall Elected persons \nClosing of the Assembly \n  \nPlease note: This agenda is not finalized and may change prior to the opening of assembly. \n\n\n\n Assembly Rules\n \n2025 Rules and Procedures \nThe Greater Milwaukee Synod Council recommends to the Synod Assembly the following Rules and Procedures for 2025. These will be formalized by the Assembly at the First Plenary Session of the Assembly\, but will be followed prior to that action. \n \n\n\n\nTitle\nDownload\n\n\n\n \n2025 Synod Assembly Rules\n DownloadPreview \n\n\n\n \n \n\n\n Nominations and Open Positions\n \nOpen positions for nominations are listed below. Use this fillable pdf or our online form to submit a nomination form. \nPlease note: Gender non-binary or gender non-conforming people can be nominated to serve in any roles designated for gendered representation.  \nConsultation Committee \nThe role of the consultation committee is spelled out in detail in chapter 20 of the ELCA’s constitution\, focusing on working to resolve conflicts within the synod and in congregations. The term of service is six years and members may not be elected to consecutive terms. \n\n\nAt Large – Lay Male (full term: 9/1/2025 – 8/31/2031) \n\nThom Nicla (he/him)\n\n\n\nAt Large – Lay Female (full term: 9/1/2025 – 8/31/2031) \n\nBonnie Zimmermann (she/her)\n\n\n\nAt Large – Rostered Minister (full term: 9/1/2025 – 8/31/2031) \n\nRev. Carolyn Sellers Rizzo (she/her)\n\n\n\nAt Large – Rostered Minister (full term: 9/1/2025 – 8/31/2031) \n\nRev. Jackie Cook (she/her)\n\n\n\nSynod Council \nThe role of the Synod Council is to be the board of directors of this synod and to serve as its interim legislative authority between meetings of the Synod Assembly. \n\n\nAt Large – Lay Male (full term: 9/1/2025 – 8/31/2029) \n\nJeffrey Kehoe (he/him)\n\n\n\nAt Large – Lay Female (full term: 9/1/2025 – 8/31/2029) \n\nJean Nelson (she/her)\n\n\n\nAt Large – Rostered Minister (full term: 9/1/2025 – 8/31/2029) \n\nRev. Perrie Dralle (she/her)\n\n\n\nAt Large – Youth/Young Adult aged 30 or under when elected (full term 9/1/2025 – 8/31/2029) \n\nAlex Pechauer Bates (he/him)\n\n\n\nAt Large – Youth aged 18 or under when elected (full term 9/1/2025 – 8/31/2027) \n\nAvery Newell (she/her)\n\n\n\nVice President – Layperson (full term: 9/1/2025 – 8/31/2029) \n\nDr. Rose Dotson (she/her)\n\n\n\nTreasurer – Layperson or Rostered Minister (full term: 9/1/2025 – 8/31/2029) \n\n\nCentral Conference – Lay Female (full term: 9/1/2025 – 8/31/2029) \n\nRoxanne Rhinehart (she/her)\n\n\n\nNorth Conference – Rostered Minister (full term: 9/1/2025 – 8/31/2029) \n\nRev. Alexis Twito (she/her)\n\n\n\nSouth Conference– Lay Male (full term: 9/1/2025 – 8/31/2029) \n\n\n\n\n\n Resolutions\n \nThe deadline to submit a resolution is March 31\, 2025. When a resolution is submitted it will be reviewed and then added to this page. \nLearn more about resolutions and memorials – what they are\, how to write them and more –  in this guide and this flowchart. \n \n\n\n\nTitle\nDownload\n\n\n\n \nResolution 1 SA 2025 Recreate the Welcome Statement of the Greater Milwaukee Synod\n DownloadPreview \n\n \nResolution 2 SA 2025 Resolution to Thank Congregtions\n DownloadPreview \n\n \nResolution 3 SA 2025 Partnership with Sumud- For Justice in Palestine and Israel\n DownloadPreview \n\n \nResolution 4 SA 2025 Addressing the Legacy of Indian Boarding Schools in the United States\n DownloadPreview \n\n \nResolution 5 SA 2025 Resolution in Support of Efforts to Hold the Fossil Fuel Industry Accountable\n DownloadPreview \n\n \nResolution 6 SA 2025 Evaluate and Update the Call Process\n DownloadPreview \n\n\n\n \n \n\n\n Reports\n \n \n\n\n\nTitle\nDownload\n\n\n\n \nBishop Eaton's Synod Assembly 2025 Letter English\n DownloadPreview \n\n \nBishop Eaton's Synod Assembly 2025 Letter Spanish\n DownloadPreview \n\n \nELCA Federal Credit Union Report\n DownloadPreview \n\n \nELCA Foundation Report\n DownloadPreview \n\n \nGlobal Refuge Report\n DownloadPreview \n\n \nLuther College Report\n DownloadPreview \n\n \nLuther Seminary Report\n DownloadPreview \n\n \nLutheran School of Theology at Chicago Report\n DownloadPreview \n\n \nLutheran Social Services Report\n DownloadPreview \n\n \nMeru Coffee Report\n DownloadPreview \n\n \nMission Investment Fund Report\n DownloadPreview \n\n \nRegion 5 Report\n DownloadPreview \n\n \nSt. Olaf College – Synod Assembly Report 2025\n DownloadPreview \n\n \nWartburg College Report\n DownloadPreview \n\n\n\n\nVideo Reports: \n\nLuther College\nLutheran School of Theology at Chicago\nWartburg Theological Seminary\n\n\n\n\n Transportation\, Meals\, and Facility Information\n \nBrookfield Conference Center \nThe Brookfield Conference Center\, 325 S Moorland Rd\, Brookfield\, WI 53005\, is the location of our annual assembly in 2025. This conference facility is located just off 1-94 near Brookfield Square Mall. Ample parking is available right outside the venue. \nPublic Transportation \nPublic transportation is available  from Milwaukee. Learn more about the bus route and transfers here. \n \nAdditional Information \n\n\nDress in Layers: Conference facilities can vary greatly in temperature and you will be more comfortable if you dress in layers. \n\n\nWi-Fi: Coming soon \n\n\nFriday Dinner: You will find a dinner ticket tucked in the middle of the name badge holder that notes your dinner choice. Place your meal ticket on the table in front of after the conclusion of Plenary 1. If you shared information about an allergy or dietary restriction that requires a special meal\, you will have a red colored ticket. Be sure to confirm with the server that you are receiving the correct meal. \n\n\nSaturday Meals: We have a light continental breakfast buffet featuring juice\, house-made pastries\, sliced breakfast breads\, muffins\, coffee\, tea\, and water scheduled for 7:30 am. Lunch is a southwest buffet featuring garden chopped salad\, chicken street tacos\, cheese enchiladas\, black beans\, Spanish rice and more. \n\n\nRestrooms: The primary set of restrooms is located past the display tables on the west end of the building. An all-gender restroom is available on the east end of the building. There is also a private space for nursing mothers. \n\n\nChildcare: Our childcare room is staffed by a paid and background-checked team of adults. Children must be pre-registered for childcare; we are unable to accommodate children that are not pre-registered. We hire providers based on the number and ages of registered children. Children will have Friday dinner and Saturday lunch in the childcare room. Parents should plan to send their own snacks\, diapers\, comfort items\, and shareable toys with their child.  \n\n\nElectronic Devices: You are encouraged and welcome to bring your electronic devices along to access documents needed for the assembly. Please do not bring extension cords with you. We will have a charging station near the back of the room if you need to charge your device. Extension cords are a tripping hazard and will be removed. \n\n\n\nTuesday\, May 27 (pre-Assembly) \n\n\n6:30 pm – Assembly Orientation via zoom \n\n\n7:30 pm – Resolutions Hearing via zoom \n\n\nJoin Zoom Meeting:https://us02web.zoom.us/j/89303550254?pwd=ARXGuL8wABYCcbJG52BcKmSzmuOeui.1  \nMeeting ID: 893 0355 0254 Passcode: 327080 \nWednesday\, May 28 (pre-Assembly) \n\n\n6:30 pm – Budget Hearing via zoom \n\n\nJoin Zoom Meeting:https://us02web.zoom.us/j/89303550254?pwd=ARXGuL8wABYCcbJG52BcKmSzmuOeui.1  \nMeeting ID: 893 0355 0254 Passcode: 327080 \nFriday\, May 30 (Assembly\, Day 1) \n\n\n2:00 pm – Registration opens \n\n\n4:00 pm – Plenary 1 \n\n\nWelcome \nLand Acknowledgment \nOpening of the Assembly \nOrientation and Welcome Special Guests \nInterfaith Greetings \nReport of the Credentials Committee \nAssembly Appointments \nAdoption of Agenda \nApproval of Rules and Procedures \nNominations Report \nReference and Counsel Report \n\n\n5:15 pm – Dinner and Keynote with Rev. Khader El-Yateem \n\n\n7:00 pm – Worship with Tyra Dennis \n\n\n8:15 pm – Dessert Reception \n\n\nSaturday\, May 31 (Assembly\, Day 2) \n\n\n7:30 am – Registration opens/Breakfast available \n\n\n8:30 am – Plenary 2 \n\n\nDevotion  \nOrientation/Review \nBudget Presentation \nBishop Report  \nDevotion \nBreak \nFirst Ballot for Open Positions \nVice President Report \nReport of the First Ballot \nAction on the Budget \nResolutions \n\n\n12pm – Lunch \n\n\n1:15 pm – Plenary 3 \n\n\nDevotion \nReport of the Credentials Committee \nSecond Ballot for Open Positions \nELCA Representative Report \nDevotion \nBreak \nReport of the Second Ballot \nThird Ballot for Open Positions \nResolutions \nInstall Elected persons \nClosing of the Assembly \n  \nPlease note: This agenda is not finalized and may change prior to the opening of assembly. \n2025 Rules and Procedures \nThe Greater Milwaukee Synod Council recommends to the Synod Assembly the following Rules and Procedures for 2025. These will be formalized by the Assembly at the First Plenary Session of the Assembly\, but will be followed prior to that action. \n \n\n\n\nTitle\nDownload\n\n\n\n \n2025 Synod Assembly Rules\n DownloadPreview \n\n\n\n\nOpen positions for nominations are listed below. Use this fillable pdf or our online form to submit a nomination form. \nPlease note: Gender non-binary or gender non-conforming people can be nominated to serve in any roles designated for gendered representation.  \nConsultation Committee \nThe role of the consultation committee is spelled out in detail in chapter 20 of the ELCA’s constitution\, focusing on working to resolve conflicts within the synod and in congregations. The term of service is six years and members may not be elected to consecutive terms. \n\n\nAt Large – Lay Male (full term: 9/1/2025 – 8/31/2031) \n\nThom Nicla (he/him)\n\n\n\nAt Large – Lay Female (full term: 9/1/2025 – 8/31/2031) \n\nBonnie Zimmermann (she/her)\n\n\n\nAt Large – Rostered Minister (full term: 9/1/2025 – 8/31/2031) \n\nRev. Carolyn Sellers Rizzo (she/her)\n\n\n\nAt Large – Rostered Minister (full term: 9/1/2025 – 8/31/2031) \n\nRev. Jackie Cook (she/her)\n\n\n\nSynod Council \nThe role of the Synod Council is to be the board of directors of this synod and to serve as its interim legislative authority between meetings of the Synod Assembly. \n\n\nAt Large – Lay Male (full term: 9/1/2025 – 8/31/2029) \n\nJeffrey Kehoe (he/him)\n\n\n\nAt Large – Lay Female (full term: 9/1/2025 – 8/31/2029) \n\nJean Nelson (she/her)\n\n\n\nAt Large – Rostered Minister (full term: 9/1/2025 – 8/31/2029) \n\nRev. Perrie Dralle (she/her)\n\n\n\nAt Large – Youth/Young Adult aged 30 or under when elected (full term 9/1/2025 – 8/31/2029) \n\nAlex Pechauer Bates (he/him)\n\n\n\nAt Large – Youth aged 18 or under when elected (full term 9/1/2025 – 8/31/2027) \n\nAvery Newell (she/her)\n\n\n\nVice President – Layperson (full term: 9/1/2025 – 8/31/2029) \n\nDr. Rose Dotson (she/her)\n\n\n\nTreasurer – Layperson or Rostered Minister (full term: 9/1/2025 – 8/31/2029) \n\n\nCentral Conference – Lay Female (full term: 9/1/2025 – 8/31/2029) \n\nRoxanne Rhinehart (she/her)\n\n\n\nNorth Conference – Rostered Minister (full term: 9/1/2025 – 8/31/2029) \n\nRev. Alexis Twito (she/her)\n\n\n\nSouth Conference– Lay Male (full term: 9/1/2025 – 8/31/2029) \n\n\nThe deadline to submit a resolution is March 31\, 2025. When a resolution is submitted it will be reviewed and then added to this page. \nLearn more about resolutions and memorials – what they are\, how to write them and more –  in this guide and this flowchart. \n \n\n\n\nTitle\nDownload\n\n\n\n \nResolution 1 SA 2025 Recreate the Welcome Statement of the Greater Milwaukee Synod\n DownloadPreview \n\n \nResolution 2 SA 2025 Resolution to Thank Congregtions\n DownloadPreview \n\n \nResolution 3 SA 2025 Partnership with Sumud- For Justice in Palestine and Israel\n DownloadPreview \n\n \nResolution 4 SA 2025 Addressing the Legacy of Indian Boarding Schools in the United States\n DownloadPreview \n\n \nResolution 5 SA 2025 Resolution in Support of Efforts to Hold the Fossil Fuel Industry Accountable\n DownloadPreview \n\n \nResolution 6 SA 2025 Evaluate and Update the Call Process\n DownloadPreview \n\n\n\n \n \n\n\n\nTitle\nDownload\n\n\n\n \nBishop Eaton's Synod Assembly 2025 Letter English\n DownloadPreview \n\n \nBishop Eaton's Synod Assembly 2025 Letter Spanish\n DownloadPreview \n\n \nELCA Federal Credit Union Report\n DownloadPreview \n\n \nELCA Foundation Report\n DownloadPreview \n\n \nGlobal Refuge Report\n DownloadPreview \n\n \nLuther College Report\n DownloadPreview \n\n \nLuther Seminary Report\n DownloadPreview \n\n \nLutheran School of Theology at Chicago Report\n DownloadPreview \n\n \nLutheran Social Services Report\n DownloadPreview \n\n \nMeru Coffee Report\n DownloadPreview \n\n \nMission Investment Fund Report\n DownloadPreview \n\n \nRegion 5 Report\n DownloadPreview \n\n \nSt. Olaf College – Synod Assembly Report 2025\n DownloadPreview \n\n \nWartburg College Report\n DownloadPreview \n\n\n\n\nVideo Reports: \n\nLuther College\nLutheran School of Theology at Chicago\nWartburg Theological Seminary\n\nBrookfield Conference Center \nThe Brookfield Conference Center\, 325 S Moorland Rd\, Brookfield\, WI 53005\, is the location of our annual assembly in 2025. This conference facility is located just off 1-94 near Brookfield Square Mall. Ample parking is available right outside the venue. \nPublic Transportation \nPublic transportation is available  from Milwaukee. Learn more about the bus route and transfers here. \n \nAdditional Information \n\n\nDress in Layers: Conference facilities can vary greatly in temperature and you will be more comfortable if you dress in layers. \n\n\nWi-Fi: Coming soon \n\n\nFriday Dinner: You will find a dinner ticket tucked in the middle of the name badge holder that notes your dinner choice. Place your meal ticket on the table in front of after the conclusion of Plenary 1. If you shared information about an allergy or dietary restriction that requires a special meal\, you will have a red colored ticket. Be sure to confirm with the server that you are receiving the correct meal. \n\n\nSaturday Meals: We have a light continental breakfast buffet featuring juice\, house-made pastries\, sliced breakfast breads\, muffins\, coffee\, tea\, and water scheduled for 7:30 am. Lunch is a southwest buffet featuring garden chopped salad\, chicken street tacos\, cheese enchiladas\, black beans\, Spanish rice and more. \n\n\nRestrooms: The primary set of restrooms is located past the display tables on the west end of the building. An all-gender restroom is available on the east end of the building. There is also a private space for nursing mothers. \n\n\nChildcare: Our childcare room is staffed by a paid and background-checked team of adults. Children must be pre-registered for childcare; we are unable to accommodate children that are not pre-registered. We hire providers based on the number and ages of registered children. Children will have Friday dinner and Saturday lunch in the childcare room. Parents should plan to send their own snacks\, diapers\, comfort items\, and shareable toys with their child.  \n\n\nElectronic Devices: You are encouraged and welcome to bring your electronic devices along to access documents needed for the assembly. Please do not bring extension cords with you. We will have a charging station near the back of the room if you need to charge your device. Extension cords are a tripping hazard and will be removed. URL:https://milwaukeesynod.org/event/synod-assembly-2025/ LOCATION:Brookfield Conference Center\, 325 South Moorland Road\, Brookfield\, WI\, 53005\, United States ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/avif:https://milwaukeesynod.org/wp-content/uploads/2025-SA_Logo.avif ORGANIZER;CN="Greater Milwaukee Synod":MAILTO:gmsoffice@gmselca.org GEO:43.0283851;-88.1071474 X-APPLE-STRUCTURED-LOCATION;VALUE=URI;X-ADDRESS=Brookfield Conference Center 325 South Moorland Road Brookfield WI 53005 United States;X-APPLE-RADIUS=500;X-TITLE=325 South Moorland Road:geo:-88.1071474,43.0283851 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20250415T100000 DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20250415T120000 DTSTAMP:20250219T173735Z CREATED:20250130T173936Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250219T173735Z UID:10001372-1744711200-1744718400@milwaukeesynod.org SUMMARY:2025 Chrism Mass DESCRIPTION:2025 Chrism Mass\nApril 15 \n\nHoly Cross Lutheran Church \nW156 N8131 Pilgrim RoadMenomonee Falls\, \n\n+ Google Map \n\n262-251-2740 \n \nWe invite all rostered ministers and lay leaders to join us on Tuesday of Holy Week for a Chrism Mass. Participants will have the opportunity to renew their ordination and baptismal vows and receive a small container of oil that can be used for anointing. \nWe are grateful for the many ways that our leaders are serving during Lent and Holy Week\, and hope that this time of worship can be a chance to reflect and be renewed in body and spirit. URL:https://milwaukeesynod.org/event/2025-chrism-mass/ LOCATION:Holy Cross Lutheran Church\, W156 N8131 Pilgrim Road\, Menomonee Falls ORGANIZER;CN="Greater Milwaukee Synod":MAILTO:gmsoffice@gmselca.org GEO:43.1712528;-88.1019562 X-APPLE-STRUCTURED-LOCATION;VALUE=URI;X-ADDRESS=Holy Cross Lutheran Church W156 N8131 Pilgrim Road Menomonee Falls;X-APPLE-RADIUS=500;X-TITLE=W156 N8131 Pilgrim Road:geo:-88.1019562,43.1712528 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20250325T183000 DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20250325T193000 DTSTAMP:20260107T170006Z CREATED:20241210T205312Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260107T170006Z UID:10001357-1742927400-1742931000@milwaukeesynod.org SUMMARY:Inspired for Mission Zoom Gathering: "This is My Story\, This is My Song" DESCRIPTION:Inspired for Mission Zoom Gathering: “This is My Story\, This is My Song”\n March 25\, 2025\n @\n6:30 pm\n –\n7:30 pm\nCDT \nJoin our synod’s Mission Table for “Inspired for Mission\,” a monthly virtual gatherings centered around inspiring stories of where God is leading our Church! \nOur topic for March is “This is My Story\, This is My Song.” Music is a gift from God. It comforts us\, connects us with one another\, and often gives us words when we cannot find our own. At this month’s Inspired for Mission Zoom\, we’ll hear some inspiring stories from people in our synod about a song that is important to them. Join us for an hour of storytelling and inspiration – and perhaps be inspired to share your own short story! \n \n Click Here to Join Us on Zoom!\n \n Meeting ID: 820 9300 9097\nPasscode: 188373 URL:https://milwaukeesynod.org/event/my_story_my_song/ LOCATION:Online Event CATEGORIES:Inspired for Mission ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://milwaukeesynod.org/wp-content/uploads/GMS-Inspired-for-Mission_FB-Insta-Post_V1.png ORGANIZER;CN="Greater Milwaukee Synod":MAILTO:gmsoffice@gmselca.org END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20250225T183000 DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20250225T193000 DTSTAMP:20260107T170006Z CREATED:20241210T204642Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260107T170006Z UID:10001356-1740508200-1740511800@milwaukeesynod.org SUMMARY:Inspired for Mission Zoom Gathering: "Church Councils and Faith Formation" DESCRIPTION:Inspired for Mission Zoom Gathering: “Church Councils and Faith Formation”\n February 25\, 2025\n @\n6:30 pm\n –\n7:30 pm\nCST \nJoin our synod’s Mission Table for “Inspired for Mission\,” a monthly virtual gatherings centered around inspiring stories of where God is leading our Church! Our topic for February is “Church Councils and Faith Formation.” \nDuring this month’s Inspired for Mission Zoom conversation\, we’ll try out a spiritual practice together\, and then hear stories and ideas from congregations around our synod. How can councils\, teams\, and committees grow in faith together? What spiritual or devotional practices have been helpful for your council? Bring a story or practice to share – or just come to listen and learn!\n \n Click Here to Join Us on Zoom!\n \nMeeting ID: 880 1299 8253 \nPasscode: 238656 \n  URL:https://milwaukeesynod.org/event/church_councils/ LOCATION:Online Event CATEGORIES:Inspired for Mission ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://milwaukeesynod.org/wp-content/uploads/GMS-Inspired-for-Mission_FB-Insta-Post_V1.png ORGANIZER;CN="Greater Milwaukee Synod":MAILTO:gmsoffice@gmselca.org END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20250222T090000 DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20250222T113000 DTSTAMP:20260107T051025Z CREATED:20250114T145944Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260107T051025Z UID:10001358-1740214800-1740223800@milwaukeesynod.org SUMMARY:Adventures in Renewal CO-LAB: Celebration Edition DESCRIPTION:Adventures in Renewal CO-LAB: Celebration Edition\n \n February 22\n @\n9:00 am\n –\n11:30 am \n\n \n DenizenMKE \n \n\n4227 W Vliet St\n \n Milwaukee\,\n WI\n 53208\n United States\n\n\n + Google Map \n\n \n \n \n \n \nRaise a Toast to Learning!\nHere’s what to expect: \n\nA fun and inspiring gathering to reflect on how we have much to learn and how God teaches us even when – especially when – things don’t go like we expected\nAn opportunity to share your team’s Adventures in Renewal stories (prizes may be awarded!)\nLaughter\, learning\, and a practical tool to bring back to your congregation\n\nStay tuned for more details as we finalize plans. Until then\, please save the date and share this information with your team. \nWe look forward to celebrating together! \n \n RSVP to attend\n \n\n\n Questions? Contact Danette Braun\, Rev. Andy Fetters\, or Sonja Wolfe. URL:https://milwaukeesynod.org/event/adventures-in-renewal-co-lab-celebration/ LOCATION:DenizenMKE\, 4227 W Vliet St\, Milwaukee\, WI\, 53208\, United States ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/avif:https://milwaukeesynod.org/wp-content/uploads/CO-LAB-Celebration-Edition.avif ORGANIZER;CN="Greater Milwaukee Synod":MAILTO:gmsoffice@gmselca.org GEO:43.0485568;-87.9679741 X-APPLE-STRUCTURED-LOCATION;VALUE=URI;X-ADDRESS=DenizenMKE 4227 W Vliet St Milwaukee WI 53208 United States;X-APPLE-RADIUS=500;X-TITLE=4227 W Vliet St:geo:-87.9679741,43.0485568 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20250216T170000 DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20250216T220000 DTSTAMP:20260107T050905Z CREATED:20250122T172053Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260107T050905Z UID:10001370-1739725200-1739743200@milwaukeesynod.org SUMMARY:Gather Games for Young Adults (18-35) DESCRIPTION:Gather Games for Young Adults (18-35)\n \n3rd Sunday of every month\, 5 – 10 pm\nDate & Time:\nFebruary 16\n@\n5:00 pm\n–\n10:00 pm \n\nGethsemane Lutheran Church – Brookfield \n13200 W. Greenfield Ave. \nBrookfield\,\nWI\n53005\nUnited States\n+ Google Map \n\nCost:\nFree (Dinner Included)\nGather MKE is a group of young adults looking for meaningful connections to our faith and our world. We are ELCA-based\, but welcome all who are looking for authentic community. Whether you have a home church you love or have never felt at home in organized religious spaces\, we are here for you. \nQuestions? Contact gathermke@gmail.com. URL:https://milwaukeesynod.org/event/gather_games/ LOCATION:Gethsemane Lutheran Church – Brookfield\, 13200 W. Greenfield Ave.\, Brookfield\, WI\, 53005\, United States ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/avif:https://milwaukeesynod.org/wp-content/uploads/gather.avif ORGANIZER;CN="Greater Milwaukee Synod":MAILTO:gmsoffice@gmselca.org GEO:43.016807;-88.077819 X-APPLE-STRUCTURED-LOCATION;VALUE=URI;X-ADDRESS=Gethsemane Lutheran Church – Brookfield 13200 W. Greenfield Ave. Brookfield WI 53005 United States;X-APPLE-RADIUS=500;X-TITLE=13200 W. Greenfield Ave.:geo:-88.077819,43.016807 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20250215T080000 DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20250215T150000 DTSTAMP:20260107T062402Z CREATED:20240626T200621Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260107T062402Z UID:10001340-1739606400-1739631600@milwaukeesynod.org SUMMARY:Together in Mission 2025 DESCRIPTION:Together in Mission 2025\n \n February 15\, 2025\n @\n8:00 am\n –\n3:00 pm \n\n \n St. Matthew’s Lutheran Church – Wauwatosa \n \n\n1615 Wauwatosa Avenue\n \n Wauwatosa\,\n WI\n 53213\n United States\n\n\n + Google Map \n\n \n \n \n \n \n Cost: $25 (includes lunch) \nJoin us for our synod’s annual learning gathering of pastors\, deacons and lay leaders from across Southeast Wisconsin! Together we’ll worship\, celebrate our partnership in the Gospel\, and attend workshops on a variety of ministry topics. We are delighted to welcome Bishop Meggan Manlove from our Domestic Companion Synod\, the Northwest Intermountain Synod\, as our preacher and workshop presenter! \nPlease note: Although online registration closed on February 11th\, you can still attend by registering at the door on Saturday.  Please bring the $25 event fee in cash or by check (made payable to “Greater Milwaukee Synod”) and fill out a registration form when you enter.  IMPORTANT NOTE: Because our catering order was placed on Tuesday\, meals are NOT available for walk-in registrants.  A list of area restaurants is available upon request. \n \n Register Now\n \nBishop Meggan Manlove\, Worship Preacher and Workshop Presenter\nBishop Meggan Manlove grew up in Custer\, South Dakota. She graduated from Concordia College\, Moorhead\, spent a year in the Jesuit Volunteer Corps in Syracuse\, NY and then earned her M.Div. from the Univ. of Chicago Divinity School. She was shaped and nourished by both outdoor ministries (including three summers at Christikon) and campus ministry (ELCA and Episcopal in Chicago). She served a parish in rural Western Iowa for six years and moved to Nampa\, Idaho in 2010 to serve as pastor of Trinity Lutheran Church. She earned her Doctor in Ministry from San Francisco Theological Seminary in May 2021. Her dissertation is titled Equipping Lutherans for Faith Storytelling. \n  \nBishop Manlove loves working collaboratively and cares deeply about food security and affordable housing. In her free time\, she enjoys exploring the region\, deepening friendships\, reading fiction\, and watching good movies. She blogs at www.megganmanlove.com. \nAgenda\n8:00 am – Registration opens \n8:30 am – Worship \n9:45 am – Announcements and Updates \n10:00 am – Break \n10:15 am – Morning Workshops \n11:30 am – Lunch \n12:30 pm – Conference Gatherings* \n1:15 pm – Break \n1:30 pm – Afternoon Workshops \n2:45 pm – Sending \n*After lunch\, attendees are invited to attend special meetings\, grouped by conference and led by the conference dean. Your nametag will help you identify which conference your congregation is in\, and more information on the meetings will be available at the event. Read more about conferences here. \nDownload a pdf of all workshop descriptions here. \nMorning Workshops\n\n\n The Art and Practice of Forgiveness (Marye Beth Dugan\, The Nehemiah Project)\n \nThis presentation explores the healing and restorative powers of forgiveness. Marye Beth Dugan is the Executive Director of the Nehemiah Project. The mission of this organization is to promote the physical and emotional well-being of youth through psychological\, educational\, leadership\, and transitional living services in a residential community. \n\n\n\n Bipoc/LGBTQIA+ Advocacy and Public Safety in a White Christian Nationalist Era (Rev. Michelle Townsend de Lopez\, Cross\, Milwaukee)\n \n“A holistic strategy to help advocates maintain their well-being in action. This approach integrates self-care\, well being\, digital security and information security into traditional security practices for public advocacy. Key steps in the process are: Prepare\, Explore\, Strategize & Act. “Caring for myself is not an indulgence\, it is self-preservation and that is an act of political warfare.” – Audre Lorde” \n\n\n\n Bowen Family Systems Theory and Congregations (Rev. Kristin Nielsen\, Assistant to the Bishop for Congregations in Mission)\n \nDr Murray Bowen’s Family Systems Theory is a lens through which to understand human behavior in families. Rabbi Edwin Friedman applied this theory to behavior in congregations and synagogues. In our TIM workshop\, we will briefly name the eight concepts of Bowen’s theory\, and then look specifically at the concept of “Triangles” in our families of origin\, and in our congregations. \n\n\n\n Church Communicators Chat (Robyn Bayland\, Communications Manager)\n \nThis session is for anyone who helps make communications or creative content for their congregation. There will be an open Q&A session and time to connect with a community of creatives from other congregations in our synod. Bring all your creative hats — all experience levels and mediums (print and digital) are welcome! \n\n\n\n Confused about the Constitution? (Rev. Sarah Stobie\, Synod Secretary)\n \nSecretary Sarah Stobie will demonstrate how to take the model constitution and your own church’s out-dated constitution and blend them together. She will answer questions as she does it\, and by the end of the session participants will know how to do it themselves. \n\n\n\n Discover the Keys to Unlocking Generosity in Your Congregation (Rev. Chris Manke\, Executive Director\, Outreach for Hope)\n \nIn this class\, you’ll learn strategies to inspire generosity\, strengthen stewardship\, and align your church’s fundraising efforts with its mission. Explore practical tools for creating a culture of giving\, engaging members of all generations\, and sharing your church’s story in a way that compels support. Whether you’re looking to boost your annual giving or launch a specific campaign\, this class will equip you with actionable steps to achieve your goals and transform your congregation’s approach to fundraising. Join us and take the next step in faithful stewardship! \n\n\n\n Keeping God’s People Safe (Rev. Debra Trakel)\n \nHuman beings can and do harm one another. By increasing their knowledge of what to pay attention to\, congregation leaders can help ensure that the church is a safe place for all of God’s people—children and adults. You will leave this workshop with more information about how to create a safer church environment and a tool to help you engage in dialogue with other congregation leaders regarding the important issue: how to keep God’s people safe. \n\n\n\n Paperwork\, Please! A Fun & Practical Workshop on Mastering Church Record-Keeping (Mary Romskog\, Executive Assistant for Administration and Candidacy)\n \nLet’s face it—paperwork can feel like a never-ending mountain\, but what if it could be a manageable\, even enjoyable task? Whether you’re tracking membership\, managing donations\, or organizing historical records\, this workshop will help you conquer your record-keeping duties with confidence\, efficiency\, and maybe even a little fun! Come prepared to share your own best tips. \n\n\n\n Smooth Sailing: Becoming a Resilient Leader in Turbulent Times (Jennifer Prinz\, Portico Benefit Services)\n \nResilience is not perfection\, but the ability to move forward in imperfect realities. Whether it’s leading the church\, dealing with difficult situations\, or navigating the inevitable bumps and setbacks of life\, it is possible to not just survive\, but thrive. Discover how to cultivate your God-given strengths and develop healthy practices that will give you the stamina\, confidence\, and inner peace you need to be a resilient leader. \n\n\n\n What is White Christian Nationalism & How do we Respond? (Breanna Illéné\, Wisconsin Council of Churches)\n \nThe Wisconsin Council of Churches has been working to address Christian Nationalism on a variety of fronts for the past several years. Join WCC’s Director of Ecumenical Innovation and Justice Initiatives to learn about White Christian Nationalism and brainstorm with others about how we as Christians can respond. \n\nThis presentation explores the healing and restorative powers of forgiveness. Marye Beth Dugan is the Executive Director of the Nehemiah Project. The mission of this organization is to promote the physical and emotional well-being of youth through psychological\, educational\, leadership\, and transitional living services in a residential community. \n“A holistic strategy to help advocates maintain their well-being in action. This approach integrates self-care\, well being\, digital security and information security into traditional security practices for public advocacy. Key steps in the process are: Prepare\, Explore\, Strategize & Act. “Caring for myself is not an indulgence\, it is self-preservation and that is an act of political warfare.” – Audre Lorde” \nDr Murray Bowen’s Family Systems Theory is a lens through which to understand human behavior in families. Rabbi Edwin Friedman applied this theory to behavior in congregations and synagogues. In our TIM workshop\, we will briefly name the eight concepts of Bowen’s theory\, and then look specifically at the concept of “Triangles” in our families of origin\, and in our congregations. \nThis session is for anyone who helps make communications or creative content for their congregation. There will be an open Q&A session and time to connect with a community of creatives from other congregations in our synod. Bring all your creative hats — all experience levels and mediums (print and digital) are welcome! \nSecretary Sarah Stobie will demonstrate how to take the model constitution and your own church’s out-dated constitution and blend them together. She will answer questions as she does it\, and by the end of the session participants will know how to do it themselves. \nIn this class\, you’ll learn strategies to inspire generosity\, strengthen stewardship\, and align your church’s fundraising efforts with its mission. Explore practical tools for creating a culture of giving\, engaging members of all generations\, and sharing your church’s story in a way that compels support. Whether you’re looking to boost your annual giving or launch a specific campaign\, this class will equip you with actionable steps to achieve your goals and transform your congregation’s approach to fundraising. Join us and take the next step in faithful stewardship! \nHuman beings can and do harm one another. By increasing their knowledge of what to pay attention to\, congregation leaders can help ensure that the church is a safe place for all of God’s people—children and adults. You will leave this workshop with more information about how to create a safer church environment and a tool to help you engage in dialogue with other congregation leaders regarding the important issue: how to keep God’s people safe. \nLet’s face it—paperwork can feel like a never-ending mountain\, but what if it could be a manageable\, even enjoyable task? Whether you’re tracking membership\, managing donations\, or organizing historical records\, this workshop will help you conquer your record-keeping duties with confidence\, efficiency\, and maybe even a little fun! Come prepared to share your own best tips. \nResilience is not perfection\, but the ability to move forward in imperfect realities. Whether it’s leading the church\, dealing with difficult situations\, or navigating the inevitable bumps and setbacks of life\, it is possible to not just survive\, but thrive. Discover how to cultivate your God-given strengths and develop healthy practices that will give you the stamina\, confidence\, and inner peace you need to be a resilient leader. \nThe Wisconsin Council of Churches has been working to address Christian Nationalism on a variety of fronts for the past several years. Join WCC’s Director of Ecumenical Innovation and Justice Initiatives to learn about White Christian Nationalism and brainstorm with others about how we as Christians can respond. \nAfternoon Workshops\n\n\n Authentically Diverse Worship (Rev. Denise Mbise\, Trinity\, South Milwaukee & Rev. Aida Muñiz\, Ascension\, Milwaukee)\n \nAs the synod journeys through our Authentic Diversity Strategic Plan\, Authentically Diverse Worship resources is one of our goals. What does Authentically Diverse Worship look like? What are some resources we can use to build worship that is authentically diverse? Join us as we have conversation about what Authentically Diverse Worship might look like. We will provide a few resources and will crowdsource from the room any resources you may have. Bring your ideas to share! \n\n\n\n Church Treasurers and Administrators Benefits Training (Jennifer Prinz\, Portico Benefit Services)\n \nAs the benefits administrator for your organization\, your pastors\, deacons\, and lay employees rely on you to help them navigate their ELCA benefits. In this session\, discover the resources available to help you effectively sponsor and understand the fullness of your benefits and retirement through Portico Benefit Services. \n\n\n\n Deep\, Then Wide – Church growth in the 21st Century (Danette Braun\, Abundance Life Coaching & Rev. Andy Fetters\, Holy Cross\, Menomonee Falls)\n \nWe all know that the landscape of church is changing rapidly. At the same time\, there is an epidemic of loneliness and social isolation afoot in the broader culture and more people than ever are hungry for a sense of belonging. In this session\, we will practice together some tools that can help your congregation connect more deeply with God\, each other\, and your neighbors in a way that will breathe new life into your ministry! \n\n\n\n The Healing Network\, Inc. (Rev. Molly Doreza)\n \nCongregations will share their experiences in developing ministry to/with people with substance abuse\, addiction and related mental health issues.  Attendees will hear inspirational stories of hope and healing and learn how The Healing Network can help. \n\n\n\n Hot Topics (Bishop Paul Erickson & Dr. Joyce Caldwell\, Synod Vice President)\n \nThe 2025 ELCA Churchwide Assembly will be held in Phoenix July 28-August 2\, and 13 rostered ministers and lay leaders from Greater Milwaukee will gather with over 800 other such leaders from across the ELCA in air conditioned meeting rooms to discuss and vote on a number of important issues. Bishop Erickson and Synod Vice-President Joyce Caldwell will give an overview of the issues on the agenda\, including the Social Statement on Civic Life and Faith\, revisions to the 2009 Social Statement on Human Sexuality\, recommendations coming from the Commission for a Renewed Lutheran Church\, and more. \n\n\n\n How To Be An Ally To Our Immigrant Neighbors (Rev. Dan Bierne\, Global Refuge)\n \nImmigration has become a hot button issue in our society\, and changes are in the works that will impact our congregations and communities. Come and learn about resources available to help you and your congregation learn more about the stories and statistics of our immigrant neighbors and how to engage in concrete actions of love and support. \n\n\n\n How We Show Up Matters (Yolanda Jackson-Lewis)\n \nLeviticus 19:18. Participants will have an opportunity to gain insight or an awareness of why “How We Show Up Matters” through self reflection and the examination of social identity and emotional intelligence. \n\n\n\n Story-linking (Bishop Meggan Manlove\, Northwest Intermountain Synod)\n \nStory-linking\, originated by Anne Streaty Wimberly\, has the goal of equipping us to speak more confidently about our own lived Christian faith. I will give an overview of engaging memoirs\, the Biblical narrative\, faith stories from the American Christian tradition\, and finally our own decision making. \n\n\n\n Transition as an Opportunity for Play (Rev. Casey Sugden\, Interim Pastor\, Our Savior’s\, Hartland)\n \nPastoral transitions can be a scary time for churches\, but they can also be a time for imagination and experimentation. If you aren’t careful\, you might even find yourself having fun. We will take a look at how being playful in times of change can benefit a congregation and maybe even the world. \n\nAs the synod journeys through our Authentic Diversity Strategic Plan\, Authentically Diverse Worship resources is one of our goals. What does Authentically Diverse Worship look like? What are some resources we can use to build worship that is authentically diverse? Join us as we have conversation about what Authentically Diverse Worship might look like. We will provide a few resources and will crowdsource from the room any resources you may have. Bring your ideas to share! \nAs the benefits administrator for your organization\, your pastors\, deacons\, and lay employees rely on you to help them navigate their ELCA benefits. In this session\, discover the resources available to help you effectively sponsor and understand the fullness of your benefits and retirement through Portico Benefit Services. \nWe all know that the landscape of church is changing rapidly. At the same time\, there is an epidemic of loneliness and social isolation afoot in the broader culture and more people than ever are hungry for a sense of belonging. In this session\, we will practice together some tools that can help your congregation connect more deeply with God\, each other\, and your neighbors in a way that will breathe new life into your ministry! \nCongregations will share their experiences in developing ministry to/with people with substance abuse\, addiction and related mental health issues.  Attendees will hear inspirational stories of hope and healing and learn how The Healing Network can help. \nThe 2025 ELCA Churchwide Assembly will be held in Phoenix July 28-August 2\, and 13 rostered ministers and lay leaders from Greater Milwaukee will gather with over 800 other such leaders from across the ELCA in air conditioned meeting rooms to discuss and vote on a number of important issues. Bishop Erickson and Synod Vice-President Joyce Caldwell will give an overview of the issues on the agenda\, including the Social Statement on Civic Life and Faith\, revisions to the 2009 Social Statement on Human Sexuality\, recommendations coming from the Commission for a Renewed Lutheran Church\, and more. \nImmigration has become a hot button issue in our society\, and changes are in the works that will impact our congregations and communities. Come and learn about resources available to help you and your congregation learn more about the stories and statistics of our immigrant neighbors and how to engage in concrete actions of love and support. \nLeviticus 19:18. Participants will have an opportunity to gain insight or an awareness of why “How We Show Up Matters” through self reflection and the examination of social identity and emotional intelligence. \nStory-linking\, originated by Anne Streaty Wimberly\, has the goal of equipping us to speak more confidently about our own lived Christian faith. I will give an overview of engaging memoirs\, the Biblical narrative\, faith stories from the American Christian tradition\, and finally our own decision making. \nPastoral transitions can be a scary time for churches\, but they can also be a time for imagination and experimentation. If you aren’t careful\, you might even find yourself having fun. We will take a look at how being playful in times of change can benefit a congregation and maybe even the world. URL:https://milwaukeesynod.org/event/together-in-mission-2025/ LOCATION:St. Matthew’s Lutheran Church – Wauwatosa\, 1615 Wauwatosa Avenue\, Wauwatosa\, WI\, 53213\, United States ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/avif:https://milwaukeesynod.org/wp-content/uploads/2025-Together-in-Mission_FB-Insta.avif ORGANIZER;CN="Greater Milwaukee Synod":MAILTO:gmsoffice@gmselca.org GEO:43.0521428;-88.0076945 X-APPLE-STRUCTURED-LOCATION;VALUE=URI;X-ADDRESS=St. Matthew’s Lutheran Church – Wauwatosa 1615 Wauwatosa Avenue Wauwatosa WI 53213 United States;X-APPLE-RADIUS=500;X-TITLE=1615 Wauwatosa Avenue:geo:-88.0076945,43.0521428 END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20250128T183000 DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20250128T193000 DTSTAMP:20260107T170006Z CREATED:20241210T203853Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260107T170006Z UID:10001354-1738089000-1738092600@milwaukeesynod.org SUMMARY:Inspired for Mission Zoom Gathering: "The Invitational Christian" DESCRIPTION:Inspired for Mission Zoom Gathering: “The Invitational Christian”\n January 28\, 2025\n @\n6:30 pm\n –\n7:30 pm\nCST \nJoin our synod’s Mission Table for “Inspired for Mission\,” a monthly virtual gatherings centered around inspiring stories of where God is leading our Church! Our topic for January is “The Invitational Christian.” \n \n Click Here to Join Us on Zoom!\n \nMeeting ID: 850 9183 2365 \nPasscode: 626071 \n  URL:https://milwaukeesynod.org/event/invitational_christian/ LOCATION:Online Event CATEGORIES:Inspired for Mission ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://milwaukeesynod.org/wp-content/uploads/GMS-Inspired-for-Mission_FB-Insta-Post_V1.png ORGANIZER;CN="Greater Milwaukee Synod":MAILTO:gmsoffice@gmselca.org END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20241203T183000 DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20241203T193000 DTSTAMP:20260107T170006Z CREATED:20240820T195506Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260107T170006Z UID:10001344-1733250600-1733254200@milwaukeesynod.org SUMMARY:Inspired for Mission Zoom Gathering: "Community Mapping as a Tool for Spiritual Renewal" DESCRIPTION:/*! elementor – v3.23.0 – 25-07-2024 */\n.elementor-widget-image{text-align:center}.elementor-widget-image a{display:inline-block}.elementor-widget-image a img[src$=”.svg”]{width:48px}.elementor-widget-image img{vertical-align:middle;display:inline-block} \n /*! elementor – v3.23.0 – 25-07-2024 */\n.elementor-column .elementor-spacer-inner{height:var(–spacer-size)}.e-con{–container-widget-width:100%}.e-con-inner>.elementor-widget-spacer\,.e-con>.elementor-widget-spacer{width:var(–container-widget-width\,var(–spacer-size));–align-self:var(–container-widget-align-self\,initial);–flex-shrink:0}.e-con-inner>.elementor-widget-spacer>.elementor-widget-container\,.e-con>.elementor-widget-spacer>.elementor-widget-container{height:100%;width:100%}.e-con-inner>.elementor-widget-spacer>.elementor-widget-container>.elementor-spacer\,.e-con>.elementor-widget-spacer>.elementor-widget-container>.elementor-spacer{height:100%}.e-con-inner>.elementor-widget-spacer>.elementor-widget-container>.elementor-spacer>.elementor-spacer-inner\,.e-con>.elementor-widget-spacer>.elementor-widget-container>.elementor-spacer>.elementor-spacer-inner{height:var(–container-widget-height\,var(–spacer-size))}.e-con-inner>.elementor-widget-spacer.elementor-widget-empty\,.e-con>.elementor-widget-spacer.elementor-widget-empty{position:relative;min-height:22px;min-width:22px}.e-con-inner>.elementor-widget-spacer.elementor-widget-empty .elementor-widget-empty-icon\,.e-con>.elementor-widget-spacer.elementor-widget-empty .elementor-widget-empty-icon{position:absolute;top:0;bottom:0;left:0;right:0;margin:auto;padding:0;width:22px;height:22px} \n\n Inspired for Mission Zoom Gathering: “Community Mapping as a Tool for Spiritual Renewal”\n May 28\, 2024\n @\n6:30 pm\n –\n7:30 pm\nCDT \nJoin our synod’s Mission Table for “Inspired for Mission\,” a monthly virtual gatherings centered around inspiring stories of where God is leading our Church! Our topic for December is “Community Mapping as a Tool for Spiritual Renewal.” \n \n Click Here to Join Us on Zoom!\n \nMeeting ID: 812 2527 1251 \nPasscode: 594471 URL:https://milwaukeesynod.org/event/inspired-for-mission-december-2024/ LOCATION:Online Event CATEGORIES:Inspired for Mission ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://milwaukeesynod.org/wp-content/uploads/GMS-Inspired-for-Mission_FB-Insta-Post_V1.png ORGANIZER;CN="Greater Milwaukee Synod":MAILTO:gmsoffice@gmselca.org END:VEVENT END:VCALENDAR