Peace be with you from Synod Assembly
The 2026 Southeastern Iowa (SEIA) Synod Assembly was held May 15 & 16 at First Lutheran Church in Cedar Rapids, IA with over 300 in attendance, including clergy, voting representatives, and guests. The over-arching theme was “Peace Be with You” (John 20:19):
“When it was evening on that day, the first day of the week, and the doors were locked where the disciples were, for fear of the Jews, Jesus came and stood among them and said, “Peace be with you.” After he said this, he showed them his hands and his side. Then the disciples rejoiced when they saw the Lord. Jesus said to them again, Peace be with you. As the Father has sent me, so I send you.”
During the assembly, we celebrated this theme through prayer, bible study, fellowship and worship in addition to conducting critical SEIA synod business.
The primary Day 1 business was the bishop election. While 20 individuals were nominated, Bishop Amy Current was overwhelmingly re-elected on the first ballot for another 6-year term. The bible study themes for the day revolved around the words “Fear” and “Peace” taken from John 20:19. People started the discussion by sharing personal stories connected to each word after which assembly participants broke into small 2-3 person groups to share their experiences. The day concluded with a traditional worship service supported by a pipe organ, full choir, and communion.
Day 2 started with music from a praise band. Business included:
Passing the 2028 compensation guidelines for clergy,
Passing a 2028 balanced budget (generated considerable discussion),
Electing Synod Council members, and
Unanimous approval of ELCA constitutional amendments.
The bible study themes for the day followed the same format as Day 1 and revolved around the words “Rejoice” and “Sent” from the John 20:19 passage. Day 2 also included an overview of the ELCA Vision Statement: “A world experiencing the difference of God’s grace and love in Christ make for all people and creation” and how our support helps to fulfill that vision through such things as World Hunger, Disaster Relief, Mission Support, and Church Property Resource Hub programs.
The SEIA Synod Assembly concluded with Bishop Current’s report of the present successes and challenges faced by the synod which included preaching the gospel, distribution/shortages of pastors, closure of existing congregations at the end of their ministry, mission support and generosity, and partnerships/collaborations with others.
Peace be with you.
Nanci Sande
