Bob Ortbals and Beth Rockelman joined the ELCA Central States Synod Assembly via zoom. Psalm 133 and Life Together was our theme. Bishop Donna Simon welcomed us. She emphasized the ELCA location (KC) is sites of 11 Native American Tribes. In the beginning the spirit moved over the waters; water sustains life. Points were: Gift of Community, Gift of day, Gift of confession and community. There was prayer, the song; Come Build The Church; a litany of opening. Amendments 7-1-2025 passed in just needed simple majority, regarded: 1) A new ELCA seal; 2) Conflict of nepotism/conflict of interest; 3) Amendments to by-laws - minister voting voice and clarify language. Short videos of Missions, Community Partnerships, global hunger were interspersed thru the day as were pastor's ordination anniversaries. The budget and treasurer's report was approved. We elected a Synod Council Secretary, Border conference Rep and Central Kansas Conf. Rep. Voting approved resolutions via Recommendations Committee: 1) Celebrate global and companion synods amendments and specific dates; 2) Climate and solar energy; 3) LGBT affirm people of God and all gender identities; 4) Giving thanks for concluded stages of ministry: death, retirement and congregations which withdrew from ELCA. There is a goal to train 100 new lay leaders in next 5 years. Send more to seminary and train ministers better. Rededicate ourselves and focus on the Gospel of Christ. Guidelines to become a PMA have been streamlined. Think of your spiritual gifts. Beth
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