Page 11 - July 2019 Traveler

My Northern Illinois Synod Assembly 2019 Experience

This was my second time at Synod Assembly. Robby has been three times!

We start off picking up our name tags and checking in.

The schedule is full and the day is busy, but well organized. They have orientation to teach
first time attendees the procedures of voting.

Bishop Jeffrey Clements does a fabulous job, with the help of his staff, keeping things running
smoothly.

Basically, pastors from 144 churches, that make up the Northern Illinois Synod, and represent-
atives from each of those churches, and retired pastors, gather together to be the government of
our church, the ELCA. It's really quite fascinating to be part of the process! It is also a beauti-
ful worship service. We sing and pray.

We had a fabulous key note speaker, Rev. Dr. Anna Madsen. She spoke both days.

Forums are offered, displays are set up.

Friday evening a lovely service was held at Trinity Lutheran in Moline. Anniversaries of Ordi-
nation are celebrated, they recognize pastors and churches. This was special for our own Trini-
ty in Durand, as we celebrate 175 years this year. A short video was played featuring early
photos of our church and functions, as well as current photos. I had the honor of speaking on
behalf of our congregation, highlighting some of the many things we offer and do at Trinity. I
was presented with a framed certificate commemorating our anniversary. The service was fol-
lowed by an ice cream social in the church fellowship hall.

Saturday we were up for breakfast and back in the assembly by 8:25 am for the third and final
session.
A young girl came to the microphone during the session after we were given time to discuss
amongst ourselves about how we can bring the love of Jesus out into the streets. I asked Coltin,
who is very active at church, if he felt comfortable talking about Jesus or his faith to his class-
mates or friends. I was not surprised by his answer. No! He's not! And he's not alone! Most of
us aren't! Which brings me back to the young girl who got up and said: “This is my first time at
Synod Assembly. Everyone is so nice and pleasant and not afraid to say 'Hi', 'Good Morning'!
We all have our name tags on. We are all here for the same purpose. Why can't we be like that
with everyone, everywhere?” Ah! She raised a good question! When we're surrounded with
those who already love Jesus, it's easy to speak to them! What we need to get better at, is tell-
ing those who don't know Jesus about Him! Invite, Welcome and Engage people! That's Evan-
gelism!

nd
As the 32 Annual Synod closed, we broke for lunch and returned for Holy Communion and
Ordination Service. It's a beautiful service. Paul David Gebo was the lone ordinate, who has
taken a call with Christ Lutheran Church in Stockton, IL.

I encourage anyone to attend. It's refreshing and sparks new energy. Deb Preston

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