Reconciling Works

2026 Synod Assembly Materials

The 2026 Synod Assembly season is here.

No matter how your synod gathers, ReconcilingWorks remains committed to ensuring that the work of welcome, inclusion, celebration, and advocacy for our LGBTQIA+ siblings and commitment to anti-racism is present in synod conversations and carried forward into faithful action.

To support this ongoing work, we have compiled a collection of helpful resources designed to be shared at tables, in virtual spaces, or with those interested in learning more about the Reconciling in Christ (RIC) journey. As you accompany leaders and communities in your synod—whether in person or online—these resources are here to help support discernment, deepen engagement, and encourage new RIC milestones in 2026 and beyond.

Suggested Synod Assembly Materials

Purchase a ReconcilingWorks Synod Display in a Box for $125 ($150+ Value, available March 1 – May 30, 2026)

  • 2 Table Display Images (11x17 inches)
  • 1 progressive Pride Flag (3x5 feet)
  • 25 of each of the following:

- ReconcilingWorks Buttons
- ReconcilingWorks Stickers
- Reconciling in Christ FAQ One-Pagers
- Resource Brochures

  • 1 of each of the following educational booklets for display:

- Reconciling Scripture for Lutherans - On Sexuality and Gender Identity
- LGBTQIA+ Welcome in Rural Communities
- Lutheran Introduction to Sexual Orientation, Gender Identity & Gender Expression
- Guide to Welcome LGBTQIA+ Youth & Their Families
- Lutheran Guide to Advocate for LGBTQIA+ People in Church and Society

Purchase individual educational booklets at a discount (use code SYNOD26 for 15% off March 1 – May 30, 2026):

  • Guide to Welcome LGBTQIA+ Youth and Their Families
  • LGBTQIA+ Welcome in Rural Communities
  • Lutheran Guide to Advocate for LGBTQIA+ People in Church and Society
  • Lutheran Introduction to Sexual Orientation, Gender Identity, and Gender Expression
  • Reconciling Scripture for Lutherans - On Sexuality and Gender Identity

2026 Resolutions/Memorials

Affirming the Sacredness, Dignity, and Flourishing of Every Person

A Memorial and Companion Resolution to affirm the sacredness and inherent dignity of every human being as a precious creation of God called to flourish in all aspects of life.

You do not need to be a voting member at an assembly to shepherd resolutions and/or memorials through the submission process.

2026 ELCA Synod Bishop Elections

The following Synods will elect bishops to a six-year term this year. We pray for the Holy Spirit to guide the process. Synods are invited to use the Synod Bishop Election Questionnaire to get to know the candidates.

Click the small arrows at the top of each column to sort the information.

SynodRIC Synod?Synod Assembly DatesBishopBishop-Elect
3A Western North Dakota SynodTBDCraig SchweitzerTBD
3B Eastern North Dakota SynodRIC SynodTBDTessa Rae Moon LeisethTBD
3E Northeastern Minnesota SynodRIC SynodTBDAmy OdgrenTBD
3H St. Paul Area SynodRIC SynodTBDPatricia LullTBD
5A Metropolitan Chicago SynodRIC SynodTBDInterim Bishop: Wayne MillerTBD
5D Southeastern Iowa SynodTBDAmy CurrentTBD
5I East-Central Synod of WisconsinTBDAnne Edison-AlbrightTBD
5K South-Central Synod of WisconsinRIC SynodTBDJoy Mortensen-WiebeTBD
6E Northeastern Ohio SynodTBDLaura BarbinsTBD
7E Northeastern Pennsylvania SynodRIC SynodTBDChristopher deForestTBD
9C South Carolina SynodTBDVirginia AebischerTBD

 

Previous ELCA Synod Bishop Elections