Synod Events
It’s not easy being the Church in a changing culture. How can the Church be or become relevant, addressing a multitude of needs locally and globally? Discovering our purpose individually and as a community of faith—helping and healing, loving and forgiving, celebrating and serving, feeding and freeing, encouraging and strengthening healthy relationships, and showing up for folks in their time of need. We are blessed with the gifts of God to get the work that needs to be done in our communities because of the important connections we have—
Christ, the Cross and the Church.
EQUIPPING THE SAINTS 2026
Christ, the Cross and the Church
Saturday, February 7 Trinity Lutheran Church, Victoria
2026 is the 42nd anniversary for the Annual Equipping the Saints (ETS) sponsored by the Bluebonnet Conference of ELCA Congregations. Equipping the Saints is known for its many workshops that provide important insights and Biblically-based practical tools to equip persons to do congregational and community ministry and mission. There will be opportunities for personal and spiritual growth, table fellowship (catered meal) with Christians of area congregations, child care for young children of attendees, and the experience of worship as the body of Christ. While the event is sponsored by ELCA (Lutheran) congregations, it is open to persons of all denominations. Join us for this special opportunity, and invite friends and neighbors to attend.
Fresh Expressions Fall Learning Cohort
What is God stirring up in your neighborhood? Could the Spirit be calling you to experiment with new ways of being church?
The Southwestern Texas Synod is partnering with five other ELCA synods in Region 4 to launch a six-month online Fresh Expressions cohort, led by the Rev. Dr. Michael Adam Beck. This initiative is for curious, adventurous leaders and congregations ready to explore new forms of church that meet people where they are.
Participants will gather via Zoom for four Saturday sessions from 1–2:30 p.m. Central: October 18, November 15, January 10, February 7
Registration has closed.
So then, just as you received Christ Jesus as Lord, continue to live your lives in him, rooted and built up in him, strengthened in the faith as you were taught, and overflowing with thankfulness. Colossians 2:6-7 (NIV)
"All scripture is inspired by God and is useful for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness, so that everyone who belongs to God may be proficient, equipped for every good work." 2 Timothy 3:16-17 (NRSVUE)
Rooted and Ready: Church Council Leadership Training
Are you a current or prospective church council member eager to deepen your leadership skills and faith foundation? Join us for Rooted and Ready, a comprehensive training designed to equip you with the tools, knowledge, and spiritual grounding necessary to lead effectively.
Event Highlights:
· Engaging workshops tailored for church council roles
· Practical resources for church governance and leadership
· Opportunities to connect and collaborate with other leaders
· Faith-filled reflections to root your work in Christ
Whether you're stepping into council leadership for the first time or seeking to enrich your ongoing service, this training is for you. Together, we’ll explore what it means to serve faithfully and lead boldly in our congregations.
We look forward to seeing you there as we grow together in faith and leadership!
Update your Council Officer Roster HERE
