Dynamic leader' called for at listening posts

By Rachel Pritchett, synod communicator

TACOMA — A new bishop should be a dynamic leader capable of steering the church into the 21st Century.

That tall order was one of many that rose up from four "listening post" held throughout the Southwestern Washington Synod in February to gather ideas for desirable qualities in a new bishop.
One of the gatherings, at Gloria Dei Lutheran Church, drew about 30 people who seemed to agree that someone who was passionate, a good listener and courageous enough to risk confrontation would fit the bill.

The new bishop will elected by voting members of the Synod Assembly, taking place June 7 and 8 at the Hotel Murano and Bicentennial Pavilion in Tacoma. Unlike the Northwest Washington Synod, where the bishop-nomination period already has closed, nominations won't surface until voting begins.

Former Synod Vice President Jim Hushagen, at the Gloria Dei listening post, explained the reasoning behind the 11th-hour approach.

"There has to be some place for the spirit to move people," he said.

The Rev. Mark Woldseth of Gloria Dei said if people know someone they think would make a good bishop to gauge their interest. If the person's interested, let the synod office staff know. Around May, the synod will release biographical information about people who've expressed an interest in becoming bishop on the synod website and in Moments for Mission.

The listening posts were organized by the Synod Nominating Committee, led by the Rev. Nina Body of Bethlehem Lutheran Church of Tacoma. Persons with questions or comments are invited to contact her at pastornina@gmail.com or 253-474-0525.

"We're from the base up, not the top down," Body said of the elections process.

The assembly's theme is “Always Being Made New,” the 2013 theme for the ELCA as its turns 25 in 2013.

Many presentations and workshops will be offered, all designed to inspire and equip congregations and individuals for the year ahead. Worship opportunities will abound. A special banquet to celebrate Bishop Robert D. Hofstad and his staff will take place.

The Rev. Dr. Terence Fretheim, Old Testament professor at Luther Seminary, and the Rev. Donald McCoid, executive for ecumenical and inter-religious relations of the Office of the Presiding Bishop, will attend.

To register online, go to www.regonline.com/builder/site/Default.aspx?EventID=1099848.Reduced costs are in place until May 16. Room reservations also should be made before May 16, by calling 888-862-3255 and asking for the Southwestern Washington Synod/ELCA group block.