2005 Synod Assembly

Report of the ELCA Offers Hopeful Look Toward the Future

(Live Update added 1 p.m., Friday, May 6, 2005)

Kathryn Sime Photo by Pastor Todd Hawkins

The Rev. Mark S. Hanson, presiding bishop of the Evangelical Church in America, said society is developing a new interest in religion.

In a prerecorded message shown during the 18th annual Southeastern Minnesota Synod Assembly, Hanson said there's a new curiosity among people about faith. For this reason, the congregations have a new opportunity to grow.

"The people around us are asking deep, thoughtful questions about the core of our faith," he said. "People in this culture are tired of the rat race, of the consumptive living, and want to begin to ask the question of, 'What gives my life meaning?'"

But if congregations are to grow, Hanson said it's important that they reach out to new and different people.

"I think we are awakening to the fact that we simply can't be a vital, vibrant church in this diverse culture," he said, "being as homogenous as we are."

Hanson said the ELCA faces some challenges as it grows. He said there is some temptation among people to focus on personal differences. By focusing on important ties like baptism and communion, though, all can come together to do God's work.

He also said the ELCA's recent administrative reorganization will help start new congregations and revitalize existing ones. A forthcoming ELCA social statement on education will likewise give congregations new opportunities to grow and become involved in their communities.

Nevertheless, Hanson said the best opportunities for growth come from renewed attention to basic principles.

"Amidst all the challenges and all of the conflicts, and all of the changes, we will be the body of Christ most effectively and most faithfully when we remain centered on two things," he said. "The Gospel and…mission."

Kathryn Sime, who directs the ELCA's World Hunger and Disaster Appeal, separately expressed her gratitude to the Southeastern Minnesota Synod for "strong and faithful" support of ELCA churchwide programs and activities.

She said 52 percent of the synod's annual budget supports these operations. Sime said such support is substantial, meaningful and improving the lives of many people locally and across the world.

"So I am here to say thank you," she said. "Saying 'thank you' is the most important – and most privileged – part of my job."

Previous story
Next story
Back to Live Updates
2005 Assembly photo album