BEGIN:VCALENDAR VERSION:2.0 PRODID:-//Greater Milwaukee Synod ELCA - ECPv6.17.2//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: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: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: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 END:VCALENDAR