The Synod of Alaska-Northwest
is a “synod in mission.” This was the theme of the
annual gathering of delegates of the seven partner presbyteries
who met in assembly in June 2007 in Wrangell, Alaska. There
one can still feel something of the rich missional frontier
the Rev. Sheldon Jackson must have encountered when bringing
the good news to Fort Wrangell 130 years ago. The hospitality
of this multicultural and ecumenical community reminded those
who attended of the peace and joy to be shared by all within
the family of God.
A “synod in mission” is one in transition, and
2007 brought significant change to this synod of 273 churches
with 59,202 members. The Rev. Joyce Emery arrived to serve as
the transitional executive to help the council and presbyteries
discern God’s vision and direction for the future in mission.
The synod’s successful Mission Development Certificate
program makes loans available for building and redeveloping
churches. This program will be rechartered as a separate but
covenanted nonprofit corporation. Like synods elsewhere in the
church, Alaska-Northwest is being challenged to move toward
becoming a conduit that facilitates creative partnerships and
channels available resources toward the mission priorities of
the presbyteries.
The pages that follow feature some of the exciting stories
growing out of the synod, which asks for prayers for its work
and, in particular, for the presbyteries of Alaska and Yukon,
which face great challenges as they seek resources and leadership
to continue to be faithful to Christ. |
