Message from the Transitional Synod Leader: Reimagining the Church in the World: Bold in Faith, Transformative in Mission, United in Christ
This year's Synod theme, "Reimagining the Church in the World: Bold in Faith, Transformative in Mission, United in Christ," resonates profoundly with the scriptural call from Isaiah 30:21: "When you turn to the right or when you turn to the left, your ears shall hear a word behind you, saying, 'This is the way; walk in it.”
In an age marked by complexity and rapid change, this theme invites us to contemplate how the Church can remain vital and responsive. Rooted in the conviction that God's Spirit continues to guide us, we are challenged to act boldly, embrace transformative missions, and uphold the unity we find in Christ. This call beckons us to discern new pathways, confident that faithful alignment with God's will leads to outcomes imbued with divine purpose.
After two years of deliberate inquiry—through conversations, surveys, and analysis—the Synod stands poised to articulate a new vision. To be presented at the Synod Assembly in November, this vision reflects the reality of today's Church and the enduring belief in its relevance. It seeks to empower us to articulate fresh expressions of our voice and renew our commitment to God's reconciling work.
The discernment process remains open and adaptive, ensuring that additional voices and perspectives enrich our understanding and refine the framework guiding our collective future.
Phase III Final Report: Strategic Pillars
Seven key areas will anchor the Phase III Final Report, each designed to support a dynamic and faithful response to the Church's evolving context:
Theology and Spiritual Formation - Reinventing strategies for spreading the Gospel and deepening discipleship while equipping mid-councils to nurture thriving congregations rooted in Christ's message.
Governance - Reimagining governance to be adaptable and mission-driven, emphasizing accountability, inclusivity, and leadership that reflects spiritual giftedness and shared values.
Regional Learning - Enhancing access to regional initiatives that foster leadership development, spiritual growth, and networking through innovative learning practices.
Grants - Aligning grants with the Synod Assembly's Phase II recommendations, emphasizing collaboration, sustainability, and outcomes that advance the Church's mission.
Collaboration - Expanding strategic partnerships to harness shared resources, fostering innovation and sustainability across presbyteries and congregations.
Stewardship - Streamlining resource management to minimize excessive financial drawdowns and prioritizing investments in missional activities aligned with the Synod's vision.
Branding - Developing a unified, compelling narrative that strengthens trust, amplifies visibility, and ensures the Synod's relevance as a missional leader in the Church.
As the staff, Leadership Team, Working Group Conveners, and Discernment Team convene on February 11–13, the Synod embarks on a pivotal stage of this journey. This gathering will refine the vision, ensuring that it reflects both the Spirit's guidance and the collective wisdom of the Church.
The challenge before us is not merely one of adaptation but of transformation. The call to be bold in faith and transformative in mission is an invitation and a mandate. It is a summons to reimagine the Church not as a relic of the past but as a living, Spirit-led body, equipped to engage with the complexities of the present and future.
As we walk this path, may we remain attentive to the voice that guides us, confident that Christ's Church is indeed alive and relevant, united in its sacred mission to embody God's reconciling love in the world.
Blessings In This New Year!
Rev. SanDawna Gaulman Ashley