2021 Synod Assembly

How to Participate in This Year’s Assembly:

For gathering as a small group in person:

• Set up a room with a screen/tv and computer to participate in the ZOOM sessions. It is important for a microphone to be set up for participants to speak to assembly business items. We will also be utilizing the chat feature for requesting to speak.
• Each congregation will receive a packet with assembly materials for voting members, as well as fun things that will be used throughout the event. 
• Organize snacks and meals ahead of time:
  • Organize a potluck with voting members or assign each person a meal
  • Invite the congregation to participate by providing meals for assembly attendees
• Create a retreat atmosphere: make sure snacks and beverages are readily available in the room; gather all supplies ahead of time, add some fabric, candles, and comfy chairs to set a welcoming atmosphere!
• Voting will be done via electronic voting platform. It is easiest if each voting member has their own device, but the voting window will be long enough to allow for device sharing if needed.

For gathering individually:

• If you determine to not gather as a small group, rostered ministers should ensure each voting member is comfortable with the zoom platform and has a tablet/ipad/mobile device for participating in the voting. 
• All materials will be sent to the congregation, so you will need to divide up and distribute materials to each voting member.
• The rostered minister will need to fill out the online form to inform the Office of the Bishop that your congregation will require a breakout room for the small group times. 
• Visitors, retired rostered voting members, and those in specialized ministry who are not gathering with a congregation may also request to be put in an online breakout room using this request form.

NOTE: We are limited to 50 breakout rooms. If we receive more than 50 requests, we will pair up congregations for conversation.