2006 Synod Assembly

Synod pastors share gifts in a variety of small group Bible studies
By Rev. Scott E. Olson

Quick: What do “Love is a Choice,” “Who Do You Identify With,” and “Dear Timothy, I Hear You Are Discouraged” have in common?  No, they are not hot topics for Oprah’s self-help shows.  They are just three of twenty Bible Studies offered to voting members at this year’s assembly.

The sessions were a natural outgrowth of this year’s synodical emphasis, “A Synod Joined in Bible Study.”  As a part of the Strategic Plan, “Called into God’s Marvelous Light,” the year-long emphasis seeks to fulfill one of the three visions, to be “Christ Centered Disciples.”

Larry Iverson, Synodical Minister, recruited synod clergy to lead their “favorite Bible studies” as a way to not only highlight the theme but also to give voting members a running start at getting into their Bibles.

The tremendous variety of titles and texts bears witness both the depth and richness of the Bible but also its relevancy for daily life.  The Rev. Dr. Norm Wahl, Bethel, Rochester, presented a study on the book of Jonah.  “We have to get beyond arguing about it” so we can hear what it says to us, he noted.  Pastor Wahl’s session was one of many where there was standing room only.

One indicator of the diversity was demonstrated in the fact that two different studies were offered on 1 Corinthians 12.  Rev. Dick Rehfeldt, Retired, observed how interesting that could be for voting members.  Pastor Rehfeldt himself led a study on Amos, “all nine chapters”, he said.

A quick glance into the study rooms demonstrated and eagerness to be the “People of the Word” Lutheran Christians claim to be.  If this assembly is any indication, congregations in Southeastern Minnesota will indeed be a “Synod Gathered in Bible Study.”

Click here to see the list of studies offered.

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2006 Assembly photo album