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Who: This event is open to council members, church staff, lay leaders, and rostered ministers.

When: Saturday, March 8, 2025

Time: 9 AM to 3 PM

Where: Trinity Lutheran Church, Owatonna MN

Cost: $15 per person (non-refundable) 

Congregation Council members are key leaders in the life of a church. As a synod, we support church councils and rostered ministers as they live into their leadership roles and responsibilities. Focused on equipping church councils, this event includes a wide range of workshops from which to choose so that all participants can personalize the experience in a way that is useful for their current context and needs. This event is open to council members, church staff, lay leaders, and rostered ministers.

Pre-register online at bit.ly/CALreg25 by Feb. 26!

Agenda:

9-9:30 AM — Coffee and Fellowship
9:30-10 AM — Bishop’s Welcome
10-11 AM — Keynote Speaker: Rev. Emily Carson
11:10-Noon — Workshops: Session One
12:15 — Lunch (provided to pre-registrants)
1-2 PM — Workshops: Session Two
2-2:15 PM — Break
2:15 - 3 PM — Worship and Sending

Workshops:

  • Creating Practical Policies: Tools for Ministry
  • Congregational Money Matters: Stewardship, Endowments, Planned Giving, and Financial Best Practices
  • Updating Constitutions, Bylaws, and Continuing Resolutions
  • Making Meetings Meaningful
  • Discerning Vocation for Congregational Mission and Vision
  • Compensation Conversations: Understanding Your Rostered Leaders Compensation and Benefits Package
  • Building a Connected Church: Strengthening Council & Congregation Relationships
  • Engaging Domestic and Global Partners

 

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Resources For Congregations And Leaders
Council Leaders
Keynote: Rev. Emily Carson

Leading with Wisdom: Stewarding Power Faithfully and Responsibly in the Church

Power in church leadership is not about control—it’s about stewardship. As council and lay leaders, we have been entrusted with influence that can shape the spiritual and communal life of our congregations. This keynote will explore how we can use both formal and informal power wisely, ensuring that our leadership fosters trust, shared purpose, and faithful decision-making. We’ll discuss the boundaries that protect against the misuse of power, the importance of transparency and accountability, and how to navigate conflict in ways that strengthen rather than divide. By thoughtfully stewarding power, we create healthier councils and more vibrant congregations.

Office of the Bishop Contact: