During pandemic I have not spent a great deal of time at the NT-NL Synod, ELCA offices at Briarwood Leadership Center as we have prioritized staff whose work requires them to be onsite. However the last 48 hours have changed that. Friday we gathered with a few folks to test and prepare for our online Synod Assembly on Sept 26th (be sure to get registered if you are a voting member at www.ntnl.org/events).
We will use the technological capabilities of the Leadership Center to broadcast an assembly including worship celebrating the 50th Anniversary of the ordination of pastors who are women. Briarwood also was active and being utilized in a safe manner this weekend by a local girl scout troop who spent time on the archery range. Thank you Avery Hawley and Hannah Cook for being their supervisors and archery instructor.
We also were preparing for the ordination of Tom Schwolert to serve Gloria Dei, Garland. Saturday Sept. 12th we ordained him. Tom’s pastor Nick Billardello (Abiding Grace, Southlake) participated as well in person while other synod and seminary staff along with Tom’s friends and family participated online.
It was a festive service despite only having 10 people in the chapel. Grateful for the many who joined in online as we set Tom apart for this work. #NTNL #BWTX #InMissionTogether