ELCA SOUTHWEST SYNOD Assembly 2026 Highlights
By Trudy Doan & Linda Doust
From Trudy:
I need to begin by expressing my gratitude for sending me to this assembly, joining Linda Doust as one of our Hope representatives. This annual assembly occurs to do the Southwest Synod’s business. And that was done; reports, nominations for various positions, resolutions, and a budget; all to be considered and voted on. But there was so much more. There were interactive workshops to attend, there was fellowship to enjoy with ELCA members new and known, and there was some really good eating. For me, however, the most compelling parts of the assembly were how we were being fed spiritually.
Bishop Brenda Bos spoke to us about the theme of this Synod Assembly, from Psalm 46:1, “God is our refuge and strength,” A land acknowledgement was presented by three of our members, one of whom was our own Dennis Schmidt.
Our keynote speaker, Krish O’Mara Vignarajah, the president and CEO of Global Refuge, inspired and excited me as she spoke of the mission and work of this worldwide organization. Rev. Khader El Yateem, an Arab Palestinian who is the executive director of the Unit of Service and Justice of ELCA, told how he travels the world doing the work of this important outreach.
I was impressed with a young woman, Lila Woodard, a junior at California Lutheran University, who spoke to us about her faith journey, her call to campus ministries, and how despite the fact she did not see herself as a leader, this is exactly where God is calling her.
We also had wonderful times of worship, singing, praying, liturgy and fellowship together. I came home with much to consider, to reflect upon, and to hopefully help me grow in God’s love and grace, as I am blessed to be a part of our Hope family.
From Linda:
Refuge and Strength! This was the theme of the Southwest California Synod Assembly held on May 29 and 30, 2026 at the Pasadena Hilton. I was pleased to represent Hope Lutheran along with Trudy Doan. I have had the opportunity to attend several of these assemblies and, as always came away strengthened, proud of my synod and its leadership, and yes, tired.
The schedule was changed this year and started with workshops instead of a gathering time. I attended two workshops the first morning: the first on “How to get an ELCA Grant” it was led by Laura Salazar-Krueger who many will remember from her time working with Hope. The second workshop was entitled “Real Estate as a Road for Ministry” (How appropriate for Hope?).
We then gathered as a group to worship together and do the business of the Synod – reports were given, a budget passed, new friends made and leaders elected! Thank you for the opportunity to represent Hope and please ask me about my time in Pasadena.
Linda Doust
