This is an important year for the New England Synod as we elect a new bishop in early June at our annual gathering of clergy and lay leaders we call Assembly. This year’s Assembly will be held June 6-8 in Worcester, Massachusetts, and I will be attending along with our elected representatives, Cristina Dolcino and Mike Gass.
For the past twelve years, Bishop James Hazelwood has served as the Synod’s leader, but he is now retiring, requiring an election of a new bishop. Accordingly, this is an occasion both to celebrate and give thanks for Bishop Hazelwood’s episcopate and prayerfully discern who may be a good choice for our next bishop. Under ELCA rules, bishops are elected to six-year terms.
There are nearly a dozen candidates who have been nominated and you can learn more about them here. There is also a website that provides detailed information about the election process and even more information about the candidates. You can find it here. We will also be posting information about the candidates in the Gathering Area for the next few Sundays.
Cristina, Mike and I very much want to hear from all of you about what Holy Trinity is looking for in a new bishop. We are your representatives in this electoral process and invite your views! You can reach me at pastorluther@htelc.com or Cristina and Mike at foggdrive@yahoo.com.
Almighty God, you have given your Holy Spirit to the church to lead us into all truth. Bless with the Spirit's grace and presence the people of this synod as we prepare to elect a bishop. Keep us steadfast in faith and united in love, that we may manifest your glory and prepare for the way of your kingdom; through Jesus Christ, our Savior and Lord. Amen.