Dec 4-7th I was in Tulsa, OK meeting with the bishops of the six synods of Region 4 (3 Texas synods, Arkansas-Oklahoma, Central States, Nebraska). We rotate where we are meeting and this year the rotation fell to A-OK so we traveled to Tulsa.

Our first afternoon we met at and toured the offices of the synod which are housed in the former Ascension Lutheran of Tulsa. This congregation closed and gave their land and building to the synod. Having both office and meeting/worship space enables the synod to host assemblies and other gatherings of the synod at low cost. By hosting other ministries that rent space (including a satellite of a local methodist mega-church) the buildings maintenance costs are largely covered as well.

Great to have time with colleagues meeting as well as visiting a few sites in Tulsa including the famous “praying hands” of Oral Roberts University. We then were hosted for dinner by Bishop Girlinghouse and his spouse at their home and also got to see the infamous A-OK recreational vehicle in which he travels to the various congregations across the synod (no, I am not interested in this arrangement for NT-NL Synod, ELCA).

Today we will have time of worship, conversation, and also visit a few other sites in Tulsa. Looking forward to better knowing this context and grateful for time with colleagues. #NTNL #Region4 #InMissionTogether