Synod Assembly 2026 Business Session Recap

Thank you to everyone who participated in the Sierra Pacific Synod Assembly Business Meeting. Your engagement, thoughtful discernment, and commitment to our shared ministry strengthen our life together as the body of Christ.

During the meeting, we elected a new Synod Vice President, Sal Espino (Resurrection Lutheran, Granite Bay), and gave thanks for the faithful leadership of outgoing Vice President Simon Wong (Hope Lutheran, El Sobrante). We also elected Beth Williamson (Davis Lutheran) and The Rev. Dr. Gabriele Schroeder (Faith Lutheran, Meadow Vista) to serve on the Synod Council.

Assembly participants approved resolutions on compensation for rostered leaders and organizing for climate action.

Resolution 1: Compensation Guidelines

Resolution 1: Compensation Guidelines (Español)

Resolutions 2: Ecumenical Decade of Climate Justice Action

Resolutions 2: Ecumenical Decade of Climate Justice Action (Español)

We heard a compelling call from Pastor Daniel Solberg (St. Paulus Lutheran, San Francisco) to faithfully resist tyranny and authoritarianism. Treasurer Scott Taylor (St. Mark’s Lutheran, San Francisco) shared news of a clean audit and preparations for the September budget assembly, while Jim Kowalski (St. Francis Lutheran, San Francisco) highlighted the transformational impact of the Synod’s Generosity Team.

As we conclude this year’s assembly, we give thanks for all who served, led, and participated. May God continue to guide the Sierra Pacific Synod as we walk the way of Jesus together!