Thursday Dec 3rd was another zoom-tastic day for the office of bishop. I started with our 10am NT-NL Synod, ELCA check in with leaders. Always good to see those who faithfully come for prayer and time together. Then spent time with representatives of the Native American/Alaska Native Lutheran community as we look towards an event in 2022 commemorating the ELCA’s 2016 repudiation of the doctrine of discovery.
Had a nice time with a smaller group of the conference of bishops for check in and time in prayer. Good to connect with colleagues across the country sharing best practices and encouragement.
That evening I then participated in the first board meeting of the newly and properly elected Briarwood Leadership Center board. For this meeting I opened by offering a prayer in times of change, endings, and new beginnings. 2020 has been incredibly challenging for all of our Lutheran Outdoor Ministries across the country.
Hard decisions have had to be made, yet the Briarwood Leadership and community has responded. Plans are in place for summer 2021 camping, based on multiple scenarios of Covid-19 control. Look for more details in January as we gather information. In the meantime, you can register now for the 2021 Tri-Synod Theological conference hosted by Briarwood, which will be online Jan 25-26. Although we are physically distant, we are never truly apart. #NTNL #BWTX #InMissionTogether.