The last week of January found me in Galveston taking part in the tri-synodical theology conference. This event had taken place every year bringing the three synods of Texas/Louisiana together for learning and fellowship. Last year it was postponed for a number of reasons and moved from a hotel/conference center to a church in an attempt to manage costs and be good stewards of resources. A survey was sent out to our leaders which found a value for the conference but issues with expenses and travel. These have not been resolved and the future of the conference is still to be determined.

This year our presenters led us in conversation about a concept of “Soulforce.” A concept of “pivoting” in our lives toward living more intentionally for our communities and neighbors. They challenged us to be ok with being uncomfortable in change. To acknowledge how we needed to pivot and be open to God’s work in these times. While at the conference we also got to talk about the pivot taking place at Briarwood with the establishment of our leadership center.

It was a good time of fellowship and learning. We also had the opportunity to have dinner with the folks from LSPS and celebrate that ministry that continues to train so many of our leaders, particularly in the Latinx context. This conference historically lifted up the Latinx parts of our church and I hope will do so with more intentionality in the future.

Back to DFW this afternoon for a busy rest of the week. The ELCA young adult ministry is hosting a retreat at Briarwood this weekend. Exciting to see our churchwide connections utilizing this resource.#NTNL #TRITHEO #InMissionTogether