In the midst of our Synod Council’s annual retreat this past weekend, there was a short business meeting. The Bishop’s report included recommendations for calls by the Synod Council and roster transitions. Appointments were announced to the Pastors Compensation Guideline Task Force, Capital Improvement Grant Review Team, Assembly Planning Committee, Financial Management Committee, and the Disaster Response Task Force. The Synod Council has joined the synod staff, Executive Committee, Strategy Chairs and committees, and Deans in the listening phase of our strategic plan refresh. The council thanked and acknowledged the work of the outgoing chair of Gathered, Rev. William Baum, and approved the appointment of Ms. Hazel Goldstein as the new chair.
The Council approved the Capital Improvement Challenge Grants recommended by the review team. After notification has been made in early November, these grants will be announced in our Eletter and website. The council reviewed the Pastors’ Compensation Guidelines and talked about best practices for congregations to enact these guidelines. The guidelines and additional resources will be made available on or before November 4.