Preparing Our Hearts for Synod Caucus: Tools for the Journey

Written By Brianna Iverson

The voting members at our Synod Caucus April 19th will consider our next steps as a Reconciling in Christ (RIC) synod. It is a significant moment of discernment for our community. Together, we will ask:

  • Will we adopt the draft Welcome Statement the RIC team has crafted?

  • Will we pause to lay more groundwork?

  • Or perhaps a bit of both?

While the draft statement will be presented during our formal session, we want to spend this week preparing our hearts and minds for the conversation. To help ground our discernment in grace and education, we invite you to explore two excellent resources.

  1. "Clunky Questions" Video Series

    Sometimes, the biggest barrier to inclusion is simply not knowing how to ask a question. Created by ReconcilingWorks, this series titled “Clunky Questions: LGBTQIA+ Lutherans and Pastors Answer Common Questions” is a breath of fresh air.

    These short videos feature “real Lutherans” answering the honest, sometimes awkward questions people in our pews are often thinking but might not have the words to say. They are perfect for individual viewing or as a conversation starter in a committee meeting.

  2. Homegrown Bible Study: God and the Gay Christian

    The second resource comes directly from our own RIC Team. Our Education work group conducted a deep dive into Matthew Vines’ groundbreaking book, God and the Gay Christian, and developed a comprehensive Bible study specifically for our congregations.

    This chapter-by-chapter exploration:

  • Connects Scripture directly with themes from the book.

  • Invites open, honest conversation in a safe environment.

  • Fosters "Head and Heart" engagement, balancing theological study with personal empathy.

How to Use These Resources

Whether you are a voting member preparing for Sunday or a curious congregant wanting to learn more, these tools are for you. We encourage you to use them to spark curiosity and prayerful reflection as we move toward our meeting.

Clucky Questions Series
Clucky Questions Series
Downloadable Bible Study
Downloadable Bible Study
Synod RIC Exploration Resources
Synod RIC Exploration Resources

Have Questions? Want to Connect?

Reach out to someone on the Synod RIC Team:

 
 
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Brianna Iverson
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