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Our Florida-Bahamas Synod Assembly met last week in Orlando from June 3rd to 5th, the first in-person assembly in nearly 3 years.  As we alternate annual agendas, this meeting concentrated on education and outreach, and minimized the business of the synod. This  year's theme was Joyful in Hope, Patient in Affliction, and Faithful in Prayer (from Romans 12:12).  Pastor Pam, Naomi Thomsen, and Marty Lewis served as voting members from Grace, and Mary Flekke served as a voting member from Synod Council.

We opened and closed the Assembly with Worship Services.  It's always impressive to worship with 400 good singers.

The Keynote Speaker this year was Dr. Luis Torres-Hostos, Founding Dean and Professor, School of Social Work, The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley.  His 3-part lecture was very uplifting, about recognizing and controlling bias in our everyday life.

Three workshop sessions, containing 28 individual workshops, were held Saturday afternoon.  Topics included Healthy Congregations, Global Mission, Living in God's Creation, Racial Justice, Post-COVID Church, World Hunger, and many others.

Every year the Bishop recognizes congregations and pastors who have reached certain milestones.  This year he recognized Pr. Doris Cirillo and Pr. Jeannine Sweet for reaching 25 and 30 years respectively in ordained ministry.

Business was mostly limited to voting new members for Synod Council and approving next year's Spending Plan.

Attending a Synod Assembly is a wonderful opportunity.  Worship is inspiring.  Education is fulfilling.  And what is gathered through fellowship is immeasurable.  It really shows how we can do more as a Synod 'Together in Mission' (to borrow a phrase).