Innovation Lab Visits Synod

To help congregations to find new ways to move forward in ministry and mission, Tyra Dennis from ELCA Innovation visited our synod in August. She led several sessions with those interested in exploring new ways to engage with their members and communities. Several themes emerged from these discussions. Participants expressed deep joy in ministry, especially where relationship building, community service, faith formation, music, and spiritual care were thriving. At the same time, congregations face significant challenges including pastoral shortages, aging membership, declining participation, deferred facilities maintenance, resistance to change, youth disengagement, leadership burnout, and uncertainty about the future.

Sessions were held in Williamsport, Danville, Northumberland, Selinsgrove, Middleburg, Mifflinburg, Lewistown, and Mifflintown. Follow up steps are being planned with the Innovations staff. Look for announcements soon or contact Deacon Sue Ellen Spotts (our Director for Evangelical Mission) if you have questions or ideas that sprung up from participating in the Innovation Lab.