Three years ago I was in Chicago for new bishop orientation. My group of seven were in for a great deal of learning and reality. It has been a good and challenging three years for us as our church continues to change and follow the calling of the Holy Spirit.

Please join me in praying for these 13 individuals who are now gathered in Chicago for new bishop orientation. Their election means that this fall 20% of the conference will be new. Combined with those elected since 2016 more than 50% of the conference of bishops has served less than 4 years. This is a positive function of our polity. The conference of bishops is renewed on a regular basis by those called by the assemblies of their synods and the Holy Spirit.

The spirit continues to renew and change our church. Join me in holding these new bishop-elects and all those elected this year to serve in prayer. #NTNL #ELCACoB #InMissionTogether