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We are now in the second, discernment phase of the Bishop election process, in which the people of the synod have time to review the mission profile and participate in prayerful conversation under the leadership of the Discernment Team. The team will host an in-person discernment session and offers a video bible study for your use pre-identifying persons for consideration. 

In Person Discernment Session March 2

The team is offering an in-person discernment session on Saturday, March 2, 10 a.m., in Benbow Hall at the Brossman Center on the campus of United Lutheran Seminary. This will include a recap of the Mission Profile and time to engage the Bible study with the attendees.

We will make the session available online as a watch only event. Watch for details.

Seating is limited. Register here.

Election Process and Timeline

The Bishop Election Team encourages members of the synod to stay informed about the process and familiarize themselves with the information as it becomes available, especially if you are a voting member at Assembly. 

The synod constitution outlines a three-stage process to prepare the synod for the election. Read the continuing resolution.

▶︎Transition Team will develop a Synodical Mission Profile.

▶︎A Discernment Team will develop a prayer-filled process for conversation and discernment across the synod.

▶︎The Committee on Bishop Elections shall oversee the process of ecclesiastical ballot at the assembly.

Election Timeline

November-December 11

Bishop Election survey open. Completed!

January 8 – Synod Profile published by the Transition Team

The Synod Profile (based on the survey) and Position Description (taken from our synod constitution) is now available.

February 8-March 17 – Discernment Process

Discernment Team  will hold meetings around the Synod to have conversations and discernment about the Synod profile and how to identify persons who might possessthe gifts that came out of the conversations and the profile.



March 1 – Pre-identification Process Opens

A form will be made available by which individuals may submit the name of a rostered minister for consideration; individuals may also submit their own name.

March 22 – Pre-identification Process Closes

At midnight on March 22, submissions will be closed.

March 31 – Pre-identified Person Information Due

Those whose names have been submitted will be contacted to determine if they are willing to discern a call to bishop. If so, they’ll be asked to provide biographical details and a photograph, as well as information necessary for a background check.

April 2 – Pre-identified Persons Information Available on Synod Website

Biographical information and a photograph of each pre-identified person choosing to move forward will be posted on the synod website for review.

May 2 – Pre-identified Persons Information Removed from Synod Website

Information will be removed from the website the day prior to Synod Assembly.

May 3-4 – Synod Assembly

The Committee on Bishop Elections shall oversee the process of an ecclesiastical ballot as specified in the Constitution. No pre-identified persons shall be on the ballot at the start of the Assembly. Any names to be placed in nomination shall be written on the first ballot at assembly.