ELCA Conference of Bishops Gathers in Minneapolis

In his report to the conference, Curry laid out his focus as he begins his term as presiding bishop. Reflecting on one of the ELCA priority areas — a connected, sustainable church — Curry said that, for the next year, he will emphasize a connected church.

During the meeting, the conference:

• Reviewed the ELCA Conference of Bishops relational agreement, which outlines the collegial nature of the conference. The agreement is reviewed annually.

• Engaged in conversation about the conference’s role as consultants to the Task Force on Interdependence and Purpose, which was appointed by the Executive Committee of the Church Council during the fall meeting.

The conference received:

• An update on the Service and Justice unit from its executive director, the Rev. Khader El-Yateem.

• A greeting from Secretary-elect Lucille ‘CeCee’ Mills, who begins her term Nov. 1.

• Greetings from the bishops of the Lutheran Church of Christ in Nigeria, the Evangelical Lutheran Church in Namibia, the Evangelical Lutheran Church of Angola and the Church of Norway.

• An update on Portico Benefit Services from Chris Johnson, its president and CEO.