From the Interim Executive,
Grace and Peace to you in the name of Jesus Christ! Usually our Synod newsletters focus on our ministries to support your presbyteries and congregations. Today, though, I want to write about something which might seem a little “Inside Baseball.”
The Executive/General Presbyters and Stated Clerks and synod staff joined together for a retreat in late August. Our subject was “The Why of the Synod,” and we will be presenting a draft of our conclusions at the Synod Commissioners’ Assembly October 7-9, 2021, for their approval. The overview of our work was, “In our Synod, we’ll do anything to equip leaders who are engaging God’s creative, emerging future.” I’m really excited about how this statement will guide our work in 2022 and beyond.
Also at this assembly, we’ll be electing a new Stated Clerk. Ruling Elder Sharon Moore has served in this capacity for the past year, quite ably! She has been a wonderful colleague. You can read her resignation letter here; please pray for her health. Rev. Fran Lane Lawrence of Presbytery of Lake Michigan is the candidate for interim Stated Clerk. We will also elect a new treasurer and commissioners to various committees.
The Administrative Commission which currently oversees the Synod also hopes, at this assembly, to return jurisdiction to us. They are grateful for the progress they see and for the work that so many of you are doing to bring about the improvement. If you would like to attend any part of the assembly, you can register here.
Check out the rest of the articles in our newsletter for the “Outside Baseball” work to support your churches and ministries more directly!
Your partner in ministry,
Rev. Charles B Hardwick, PhD
Interim Executive
chip@synodofthecovenant.org