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The 2007 Southeastern Minnesota Synod Assembly opened with the Service of Morning Prayer led by Augsburg College President, Paul Pribbenow. Reflecting on John 1:14, Dr. Pribbenow spoke in his homily about the incarnational nature of Augsburg’s teaching heritage. The Worship Team led the voting members in song, both familiar and new, including a clear favorite, “All God’s Critters Got a Place in the Choir.” After Bishop Harold Usgaard officially opened the assembly, Mayor Ardell Brede, member of Bethel, Rochester, brought greetings on behalf of the city. Mayor Brede noted the diverse nature of the Rochester Community as well as tentative plans to expand the Civic Center where the Assembly meets. Bishop Usgaard also welcomed and introduced synod seminarians, council members and voting members to the ELCA Churchwide Assembly. Rev. Kathie Bender Schwich, ELCA Executive for Synodical and Constituent Relations, facilitated the first ballot for the election of the Bishop. In addition to explaining the process Rev. Bender Schwich also described the various duties of the bishop, including servant, leader, overseer, and evangelist. Bishop Usgaard was reelected on the first ballot, receiving 374 votes well above the 330 necessary for reelection. Bishop Usgaard received a standing ovation from the voting members. In response, Bishop Usgaard commented “The Lord be with you” and noted how important this message is for us and for the world. Bishop Usgaard also introduced the members of his staff, thanking them for their contributions to the ministry of the synod. He then recognized his wife Lynette and daughter, Jennifer, thanking them for their presence and support. Because Usgaard is a sitting bishop, there was a brief service of affirmation in lieu of a formal installation. Following the favorable report of the Synod Treasurer, Mark Bradley, Bishop Usgaard recognized those Military Chaplains who are serving on behalf of the synod. Cmdr. John Frederickson, U.S. Navy, brought greetings and a special message on behalf of the chaplains. Cmdr. Frederickson noted the shortage of military chaplains, asking that clergy consider a call to this specialized ministry which is really no different than that in the parish. Resolutions addressed during this First Plenary include 2007-01, Youth and Family Ministry Task Force. The resolution, which passed, calls for a task force to be formed by the Bishop’s office and Executive Committee to develop a vision and strategy for Children, Youth and Family Ministry for the Southeastern Minnesota Synod. Resolution 2007-02A, Congregational Support for Seminarians, which asks for financial and prayer support for seminarians, also passed. Finally, the assembly considered Resolution 2007-05, Mission Development Special Offering, which encourages congregations to participate in a special offering for Mission Development funds to be allocated by the Synod Council’s Mission Planning and Action Team. The resolution passed. |
