In many cases, the shared meal meant meeting new friends, in others cases, reconnecting with old.

Iain Chester works with leaders and teams across the ELCA in exploring new ways to experience community, justice, and love.

Perhaps the finest thing was the easy laughter and storytelling of friends, old and new, enjoying a gentle evening together on the quad of Lenoir-Rhyne University.

Participants could choose from thirty-three different options over three days for learning, exploring, practicing, and growing.

Because we are, indeed, more than conquerors. We are Beloveds sent to love.

We are more when we worship together!

The final day of Synod Gathering offered intensive workshops, worship, service, and the blessing of youth heading to New Orleans.

A busy day of learning, worshiping, and celebrating was topped of by Lutheridge Vespers and lots of lots of singing counselors!

On Synod Gathering's first day: You are not enough, and neither am I...but in Christ, WE are more than enough.

For every lantern purchased, the bishop's car will be filled with a balloon to represent our love in lanterns!