This year’s theme is “Renew”. He saved us through the washing of rebirth and renewal by the Holy Spirit. Titus 3:5. Sunday night the opening worship was held at Messiah Lutheran Church. A reception was held in Magnuson Hall to celebrate the installation of Pastor Arthur Weiss, Executive Director of Fortune Lake Lutheran Camp; Lay School Graduates; clergy Ordination Anniversaries and Retirements.
Bishop Skrenes talked about renewal in worship, study and prayer. “We are called to renewal of our congregations. Over the next year, Synod Council will be studying how to encourage congregations to increase Synod mission support. What staff is needed to carry out our Synod’s mission? What funding is needed for ministry? How can we engage the whole Synod in a discussion of our common mission and ministry? Where is God calling us? What is God up to in the NGLS?”
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The Reverend Don McCoid, keynote speaker, served as the Bishop of Southwestern Pennsylvania Synod for 20 years. He talked about the global missions, showed a 10 minute video message from Bishop Hanson. His message was “be aware of our gifts and use them for our future. Renewal is responding to those in need with the good news of Jesus Christ. Give thanks to God for all the ministry leaders in support of the great commandment. Christ is not valued at all unless He is valued above all.”
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The 2008 Big Bear Award goes to First Lutheran Church of Gladstone with Rev. Jon Schmidt’s confirmation class who raised $10,987.76 to date through their Lenten Soup Suppers. They made, served and cleaned up after each Lenten soup supper.

The Bread Basket award was given to Rev. John Kuziej for his generosity in helping to alleviate World Hunger at home and in the world.

On Sunday afternoon, the newly remodeled Northern Great Lakes Synod and Lutheran Social Services of WI and UP offices were dedicated. Tours were also given in the afternoon.

2009 Church Wide Clergy voting member elected are: Rev. Corrine Johnson and Rev. Norm Peterson.

Lay Voting members are Mary Blomquist, Rosemary Larson, Clay Hilman, Dave Mason, and Ray Miller.

Synod Discipline Committee elected are:
Rev. Francis Strong, Rev. Kenneth Lahners, Susan Anderson and Willard Kocsovsky.