Notes from West Mountain
General Synod 33
This year’s theme was “Rooted in Love”…from Psalm 1
“We are the Flagg Road United Church of Christ, wherever you are on life’s journey you are welcome here!”
We begin our services with these words; as do 4,852 other United Church of Christ churches across this country. These words make explicit the nature of extravagant welcome we wish to extend to all who will hear.
Our General Synod wrapped up last week. The word “synod” comes from Greek roots and it simply means “assembly”. During a General Synod we worship, we make and remake acquaintances, we meet formally and informally to share what is important for us, and to conduct the business of our denomination. Synods occur every two years drawing together representatives from our local churches, conference ministers and administrators, as well as partners and allies from both within the Christian tradition and from without.
During the eight days we shared together I was reminded of our unique way of “doing” church in the United Church of Christ. I became more and more aware of how important it is for our collective church to know just how different we are. I also was reminded that it is part of my role as pastor to help us understand more about who we collectively are.
So WATCH OUT! For the upcoming season, (it is almost the beginning of everything starting up and getting going again) one of my tasks will be to inform our gathered assembly about all things UCC. Consider yourself forewarned, but don’t be alarmed, I trust that you will like what you learn and you will grow to value our roots, our history and our way of being all the more.
Peace, Mark
