Two Perspectives on Synod Assembly
Posted on Jun 17, 2026 by Pastor Jealaine Marple
On June 6, Van and Judy Chappell and I gathered at Holy Cross Lutheran Church in Overland Park to represent Salem at the Central States Synod Assembly. This year, the assembly took place online (a cost-saving decision). So, around 20 folks from around the metro gathered at Holy Cross so we could be together even while being virtual. I love Synod Assembly because it is a reminder of what we do as a congregation, a synod, and a church. I learn something new with every assembly. Plus, it was just fun to be together. I have asked Judy and Van to contribute to my article this week with their thoughts and experiences from assembly. I am grateful to them both for trying something new and doing it with such diligence, grace, and joy!
Judy writes, “We shared a rewarding experience when we attended the Central States Synod Assembly at Holy Cross Lutheran Church. Holy Cross gave us a warm welcome, and we shared an excitement and synergy as we discussed and voted on synod business. It was evident the amount of diligence and work that was expended on the business of our synod to prepare for the voting. The Zoom meetings were well-attended, which surely saved travel expenses of church members throughout Kansas and Missouri. Our bishop, Donna Simon, is a positive, and upbeat servant of God and a strong leader. We are blessed to have her as our bishop.”
Van writes, “Saturday, June 6 was a rainy day, but those of us inside Holy Cross Lutheran Church were warm and happy. We were representing you, along with Pastor J, at the annual assembly. We were filled with excitement, laced with some energy as we discussed and voted on synod business.
The all-day session didn’t last all day; the major topics were budget and resolutions.
Here are the two charts showing the synod’s budget.
Chart #1 shows the fiscal year 2026 financial support from all Kansas and Missouri ELCA congregations.
Chart #2 shows an annual financial support to the synod from all Kansas and Missouri ELCA congregations from 2006-2025.
Four resolutions were voted on. All passed.
Here are those four resolutions:
1. Celebrate global and companion synod ministries (considers ELCA synods in Russia and Papua New Guinea).
2. Act for climate justice.
3. Affirm people of God of all gender identities.
4. Give thanks for concluded stages of ministry. Pastor David Whetter was one of five retired from active ministry.”
I am grateful to Judy, Van, and all others that made our Synod Assembly another successful event! If you have questions, don’t hesitate to ask.
Peace,
Pastor J