May 31, 2025 ELCA Lutherans Gather for Synod Assembly in Portland, Oregon

Assembly Theme: Anam Cara – Soul Friends in the Spirit of Jesus

This year's theme was Anam Cara (a Celtic term meaning "soul friend"), Participants were invited to explore deep spiritual friendships with one another, the land and water, ancestors, and communities across Oregon. The  importance of courage, compassion, and a faithful response to the challenges of our time, including social justice issues, environmental concerns, and the evolving role of the church in society, was highlighted

Key Events and Highlights

• Bishop’s Election: - The 2025 Oregon Synod Assembly re-elected Bishop Laurie Larson Caesar for a second term (2025-2031)
  

• Resolutions and Memorials: The assembly passed several important resolutions and memorials, including:

  • A response to Executive Order 14169 on U.S. foreign aid.
    
  • Toward Liberation of our Land
  • Support for transgender and nonbinary individuals.
  • Memorial: A call for the recognition of Palestinian statehood in the United Nations.
  • Memorial: Educational initiatives regarding the Word and Service Roster 

• Assembly Offerings: 2025 Assembly offerings supported:

  • The Evangelical Lutheran Church in Jordan and the Holy Land, focusing on keeping schools open amidst ongoing violence.

  • Flood recovery efforts for the Burns Paiute Tribe in Oregon, addressing recent destructive flooding and delays in federal disaster relief.