More than 250 members of the Western North Dakota Synod of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America (ELCA) gathered in Minot from May 30 to June 1 for their 2025 Synod Assembly.

Meeting under the theme “Rooted and Grounded in Love,” drawn from Ephesians 3:16-17, the assembly invited participants to explore how Christ’s love calls communities to deepen their faith and expand their witness through justice, compassion and courageous leadership, according to information from the synod.

Throughout the weekend, participants heard from a variety of speakers who are helping shape the future of the church. Among them, the Rev. Dr. Phil Hirsch, executive director for Christian Community and Leadership in the ELCA, shared insights about church innovation and the changing landscape of pastoral leadership across the denomination.

The assembly also included workshops on Christian nationalism, suicide stigma among church leaders, hunger and injustice, social ministry, stewardship and lay leadership.

In plenary sessions, the assembly adopted two memorials addressing the legacy of Indian boarding schools and the crisis of Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women. A resolution addressing climate science failed to pass.

New leaders were elected to serve the synod, including Beth Campbell of Bismarck as synod vice president, Verla Rostad of Minot as treasurer and Rob Anderson of Minot as secretary.

Offerings received during the assembly exceeded $20,000, including gifts to support outdoor ministries and the synod’s companion church in the Central African Republic.

The 2026 Synod Assembly will be held in Watford City from May 29-31.