4.2. Report of the Vice President

Vice President’s Report:

Time moves so very quickly. It doesn’t seem possible that another year has come and gone. I continue to learn more about the Synod’s mission each time Synod Council meets, in conversations with the Bishop and from spending time with individuals across our territory. While the curve continues to be a steep climb, it has been one filled with support and encouragement from many folks. My appreciation and gratitude go out to Bishop Riegel for his willingness to answer questions (even the silliest ones) and to provide advice, to my fellow synod council members and to each of you.

A few weeks after Synod Assembly the WV-WMD delegation left to attend Church Wide Assembly in Phoenix, Arizona. We learned many things regarding the polity of our church, and participated in the election of Bishop Curry and Secretary Mills. While there were indeed times of disappointment, we were blessed to have the guidance of Bishop Riegel and to see him in action serving the WV-WMD Synod with grace and integrity.

Once again, I was blessed to attend both a fall and spring continuing education event at the St. John XXIII Conference in Charleston. The fall session was entitled “Spirits, Angel and Demons in the Bible” with the The Rev. Dr. Reed Carlson as the presenter. LARCUM (Lutheran, Anglican, Roman Catholic, and United Methodist) in mid-May was entitled “Deliver Us From the Evil One” with presenters from each denomination represented. Truly a blessing to engage in thoughtful, prayerful conversation around such relevant topics in today’s world.

Sadly, due to a scheduling conflict I was unable to attend the Region 8 meeting of Bishops and Synod Vice Presidents in Gettysburg. I look forward to attending once again this fall. I do, however, continue to participate in the monthly zoom meetings with Synod Vice Presidents in the ELCA. I was able to rejoice at the dedication of the new roof on LCM Chapel. It was certainly an exciting day. Thank you to all who worked diligently on this project.

This year Synod Council continued to meet quarterly to address the needs of our territory. Our focus continues to be on what is God calling us to do and how we can best spread the Good News of the Gospel to all people. We continue to plan for the 2027 Synod Assembly and the election processes required. During this assembly, you will be asked to consider multiple issues and recommendations we believe essential to the future of our synod. Workshops will focus on the role of “Lay” leadership not only in your own congregation but across our synod. We believe lay leadership to be critical to our future and desire to be responsive to your needs. Conversation is currently underway with Community Lutheran Partners, Lutheran Campus Ministry and Camp Luther regarding the employment of a Development Manager. As such, you will be asked to approve set aside funding to assist with this position over the next three years in hopes that each of these ministries can become financially sustainable and independent.

Finally, let me close by saying this has been an amazing year! I am honored to serve as YOUR vice president. I want to thank all our Council members for their faithful work this past year. Their input has been invaluable as we chart our course for the future. I pray that our Gracious God would continue to provide guidance, strength and blessings to the work of our Bishop, DEM, Synod Council, and all our congregations in the WV/WMD Synod.

Your Servant in Christ,

Nancy Weeks

WV/WMD Synod Vice President