Synod Assembly

2025 Synod Assembly

Friday, May 16 – Saturday, May 17
Marriott Madison/West

1313 John Q Hammons Drive, Middleton, WI 53562

Welcome to the registration page for the 2025 South-Central Synod of Wisconsin Synod Assembly!

This year we gather under the theme of “Partnership for the Sake of the Gospel,” a call to celebrate and strengthen the many ways we work together to share the good news of Jesus Christ with the world around us. Our time together will be spent in worship, learning, fellowship, electing synod leaders, and carrying out the business of our synod.

Below you will find information about how to register your congregation’s voting members and a link to book your accommodations at the Marriott Madison West. If you have any questions regarding the registration process, please contact Jill Sim, SCSW Administrative Assistant, or Marie Leafblad, Associate to the Bishop for Leadership Support, via their contact information on the Office of the Bishop page.

The Synod Assembly serves as the highest legislative body of our synod (Synod Constitution, S7.01) much like an Annual Meeting of a congregation, ministry, or other non-profit organization. The Assembly consists of lay voting members representing each of the 133 congregations, all called Rostered Ministers (pastors & deacons), elected representatives from our campus ministries, synodically authorized worshipping communities, and our esteemed retired Rostered Ministers. Visitors and guests also join us as partners in our ministry but do not have voice or vote in the business sessions of the Assembly. Our synod constitution lays out the responsibilities of the Assembly in various sections but it includes passing a spending plan (budget) for the synod, electing officers, synod council, and other committee members, and responding to other appropriate business appropriately brought forward to the Assembly. Except as otherwise provided in this constitution and bylaws, the Synod Council has established processes that will ensure that at least 60% of the members of the synod assemblies, councils, committees, boards, and other organizational units shall be lay persons; and that at least 45% of the lay members of assemblies, councils, committees, boards, or other organizational units shall be women and at least 45% shall be men; and that, where possible, the representation of ministers of Word and Sacrament shall include both men and women. This synod has established processes that will enable it to reach a minimum goal that 10% of its assemblies, councils, committees, boards, or other organizational units be persons of color and/or persons whose primary language is other than English (Synod Constitution; S6.04). Congregations: All congregations use the following formula to determine the number of lay (non-rostered) voting members they are allowed to register for the assembly.  The formula has been created to meet the constitutional expectation that 60% of the voting membership of the assembly be composed of lay persons, and to achieve the goal of an equal balance of men and women.
  • Up to 1000  baptized members =  2 voting members (one male/one female)
  • 1001 – 2000 baptized members = 3 voting members (one male/one female/one either)
  • 2001 – 3000 baptized members = 4 voting members (two male/two female)
  • 3001 – 4000 baptized members = 5 voting members (two male/two female/one either)
  • 4001 – 5000 baptized members = 6 voting members (three male/three female)
  • 5001 – 6000 baptized members = 7 voting members (three male/three female/one either)
  • 6001 – 7000 baptized members = 8 voting members (four male/four female)
Youth and Young Adult Voting Members: In addition to the aforementioned allotment of voting members, in June of 2010 the Synod Council passed a continuing resolution allowing congregations to register additional Youth and Young Adult Lay Voting Members.  To be eligible for a youth or young adult voting member registration, the individual shall not have obtained the age of 30 years old at the time of registration.
  • Up to 175 baptized members = 1 youth or young adult voting member of either gender
  • 176 or more baptized members = 2 youth or young adult voting members (one male/one female)
Synodically Authorized Worshiping Communities: A Synodically Authorized Worshiping Community may register one lay voting member of any gender. Rostered Ministers:
  • Ministers of Word & Sacrament – All Ministers of Word & Sacrament (pastors) under call in this synod are voting members of the synod assembly. This includes those under call to specialized ministry and under synod call. All pastors under call in the synod are expected to register for and attend the assembly. Each registered pastor has one vote at the assembly, even if they are serving more than one congregation or ministry site.
  • Ministers of Word & Service – All Ministers of Word & Service (deacons) under call in this synod are voting members of the synod assembly and are expected to register for and attend the assembly. This includes those under call to specialized ministry and under synod call. Each deacon has one vote at the assembly even if they are serving more than one congregation or ministry site.
  • Retired Rostered Ministers – Retired Rostered Ministers may elect up to 10% of their number to be registered as voting members of the assembly.

Assembly Schedule Subject to Change Friday, May 16
  • 4:00 p.m. - Registration & Hotel Room Check-In
  • 5:30 p.m. - Dinner & Programming*
  • 6:30 p.m. - Worship including Anniversary Recognitions & Blessing over Rostered Ministers*
  • 7:15 p.m. - Fellowship, Reception, and Interactive Ministries
Saturday, May 17
  • Morning: Breakfast on your own
    • There are several options in & near the Marriott for breakfast:
      • The Greatroom (located inside the hotel, serving from 6:30 a.m. - 10:00 a.m.)
      • Hubbard Avenue Diner
      • IHOP
      • Panera Bread
      • Starbucks
      • Pancake Cafe Madison
  • 8:00 a.m. - Registration (Open until 9:15 a.m.)
  • 9:30 a.m. - Opening Worship
  • 10:00 a.m. - Break
    • Those who stayed overnight should check-out of their rooms prior to the first business session. 
  • 10:20 a.m. - Opening of the Assembly & Assembly Business Session 1
  • 12:00 p.m. - Communion
  • 12:00 p.m. - Lunch
  • 1:00 p.m. - Assembly Business Session 2
  • 2:00 p.m. - Break
  • 2:15 p.m. - Assembly Business Session 3
  • 3:45 p.m. - Worship
  • 4:30 p.m. - Closing of the Assembly
*We are offering a "Friday Only" registration option for guests & visitors who wish to attend the dinner and celebration of anniversaries on Friday evening. See the registration section below for more information.

Note that registration for Synod Assembly has now ended. All those attending Synod Assembly are registered based on the type of attendee they are; voting members will be registered as a congregation whereas guests, visitors, and Storytellers will register individually:
  • Voting Member, which includes:
    • Lay Voting Members from a Congregation/Ministry
    • Rostered Ministers Under Call
    • Interim Rostered Ministers
    • Retired Rostered Ministers (as elected by their conference)
    • Synod Council
  • Guest/Visitor
    • Guests/Visitors may join us for the entire assembly or just for the dinner & celebration on Friday evening. When registering you will choose which option you wish to register for.
  • Mission Partner "Storytellers" (Displayer)
    • Please see the section below on information on joining us as a Storyteller this year.
All attendees must be registered. Only voting members of the assembly will have voice and vote during business sessions. Registration for all voting members will be done by congregation - not individually. A PDF worksheet is available to help gather the information needed for online registration. Registration Fees Registration fees cover the cost of the program, materials, and all meals (Friday dinner, Saturday lunch, and snacks), unless otherwise noted. Registration rates are per person.
  • Voting Member Registration Fees:
    • Early Bird Registration Fee: $150.00 (March 7 through 12:00 p.m. on March 21, 2025)
    • Standard Registration Fee: $175.00 (12:01 p.m. March 21 through 4:00 p.m. on April 7, 2025*)
  • Retired Rostered Minister Voting Member Registration Fees:
    • $95.00
  • Guest/Visitor Registration Fees:
    • Full Assembly (Friday-Saturday)
      • Early Bird Registration Fee: $150.00 (March 7 through 12:00 p.m. on March 21, 2025)
      • Standard Registration Fee: $175.00 (12:01 p.m. March 21 through 4:00 p.m. on April 7, 2025*)
    • Friday Evening Only
      • Early Bird Registration Fee: $45.00 (March 7 through 12:00 p.m. on March 21, 2025)
      • Standard Registration Fee: $65.00 (12:01 p.m. March 21 through 4:00 p.m. on April 7, 2025*)
  • Mission Partner Storyteller Registration Fee:
    • $175.00 (Includes space in the Interactive Area of the Assembly and Registration for one (1) person)*
*The registration deadline is 4:00 p.m. on April 7, 2025. Those requesting registration after this final deadline will be registered on a space available basis only at a rate of $225.00 per person.
It is expected that congregations cover the full cost of attending Assembly for all voting members. Online registration can be paid either online HERE and choosing "2025 Synod Assembly" as the designation, or by mailing a check. Payment deadline is April 25, 2025.  If you are paying by check, please note “Assembly” with your remittance so that we apply payments appropriately. Please do not mix your payment in with your mission support. Those paying online please indicate the name of your congregation in the requested field on the payment screen. Congregations should make one payment for all voting members. If you have any questions related to registration please contact Jill Sim in the synod office at jills@scsw-elca.org or (608) 270-0201.

As we gather for the South-Central Synod of Wisconsin Assembly, we celebrate our theme, Partnership for the Sake of the Gospel, we are inviting you to tell your story as Mission Partner Storytellers. This year, we are highlighting mission and ministry partners from across our synod, the ELCA, and our local communities. Our goal is to go beyond being a "displayer" and showcase the transformative work being done in Christ’s name and provide opportunities for meaningful engagement. We invite you to thoughtfully curate your space in a way that tells your story, provides resources, and fosters interaction that goes beyond just a display table. Not only does this highlight our ministries, it allows you and your ministry team to band together and think outside the box, together.

Expectations & Guidelines

  • Space Allocation: Each partner will be given a designated space. Please keep displays within the provided dimensions. Each area is 10ftx8ft….space can be shared with another partner if you desire.
  • Setup & Takedown: Setup will take place on Friday, May 16th from 12:00pm-3:00pm. Displays must be ready by the event’s opening at 4:00pm on Friday evening. Takedown must be completed by May 17th at 4:00 PM.
  • Provided Materials: Tables and chairs will be available. Partners are responsible for additional display materials, including signage, digital screens, and promotional items. Electric outlets are available too.
  • Engagement & Participation: We encourage all partners to go beyond static displays by incorporating interactive elements, storytelling, and resource-sharing.
  • Respectful Environment: Displays should align with the synod’s values and respect all attendees' diverse perspectives and backgrounds.

Creative Display Ideas

To create an engaging and meaningful experience, consider incorporating the following elements:

  • Interactive Storytelling: Share testimonials, personal narratives, or videos of your ministry in action.
  • Hands-On Activities: Provide an opportunity for attendees to participate in a small service project, write prayer requests, or contribute to a collaborative art piece.
  • Live Demonstrations: Show aspects of your work in real time, such as quilting ministries, meal-packing, or unique activity that represents you.
  • Visual Storytelling: Use infographics, timelines, and images to illustrate the impact of your work.
  • Digital Engagement: Offer QR codes linking to videos, resources, or sign-up opportunities for ongoing involvement.

Resource Sharing

We encourage partners to provide attendees with practical takeaways that further their engagement beyond the event, such as:

  • Brochures, pamphlets, or devotionals related to your ministry.
  • Digital resources, including websites or e-books accessible via QR codes.
  • Invitations to future events, mission trips, or volunteer opportunities.
  • Contact information and ways for individuals or congregations to collaborate with you.
The cost is $175.00 and includes space to tell your story and full registration for one (1) person. If you would like to join us as a Storyteller, please complete the registration form here. Thank you for being a vital part of this year’s Assembly! We look forward to seeing how your creativity and passion will help us celebrate Partnership for the Sake of the Gospel.

All attendees are encouraged to stay overnight this year for time to be together as partners in ministry for fellowship, sharing, and interaction. Hotel rooms are available at the Marriott Madison/West at a discounted group rate of: $139.00 per room, per night, plus taxes ($157.77 total). This group rate is available until May 2, 2025 and cancellations may be made until May 13, 2025 with no penalty. To Book a Room at the Marriott Madison/West Click Here Note that rooms in our block are "run of house" which means room and bed types are not guaranteed. A credit card will be required to hold your room and a credit card will be required to be presented upon check-in to the hotel.

All documents and other information related to the business matters that will be coming before the Synod Assembly will be available prior to the Assembly in this section. In order to be good stewards of creation, as well as the synod’s resources, all assembly materials will be distributed electronically. All documents are PDF format and can be easily read on most devices. Download PDF readers here: PC, Mac, iPhone, iPad, Google Play, Amazon Fire. Note that attendees may bring their computers, tablets, and/or smartphones to access these materials, or else print them in advance on your own. There will be wireless internet access during the assembly at the Marriott.

Pursuant to our synod constitution, a report from Bishop Joy regarding the assembly must be sent 30 days in advance of the assembly. The business portion of our assembly begins on May 17.

  • Click here to read Bishop Joy's welcome letter for the assembly.
  • Click here for the Spanish language version of Bishop Joy's letter.
  • Click here to view a simplified agenda for our time together.

The Synod Assembly book is now available to view and download. The Assembly Book contains the tentative agenda, reports from Bishop Joy Mortensen-Wiebe and the synod staff, helpful information about the ins and outs of synod assembly procedures, as well as resolutions and nominations.

  • Click here to view/download the Assembly Book (PDF) - Updated May 15, 2025
Our Spending Plan (Budget) for 2026-27 that will be up for consideration at Assembly is available below for download. You may also view the forum that was held on May 13 to discuss the Spending Plan prior to Assembly below.
  • Click here to view/download the 2026-27 Spending Plan (PDF)
  • Click here to watch a recording of the May 13 Forum (YouTube)

Five resolutions were submitted for consideration at this year's assembly.

  • Click here to view/download the full text of the resolutions (PDF)

A picture is worth a thousand words...

This year you're invited to tell your congregation's story in one photo!

Describe the mission and ministry of your congregation but do it in just ONE photo. We will combine the responses and share them in a unique way during our time together at the assembly. Each voting member or guest from your congregation or ministry is invited to submit their own photo. We are hoping to have at least one photo from every congregation/ministry site in the synod to help demonstrate the beauty and diversity of our synod's Partnership for the Sake of the Gospel!

Click HERE to submit your photo. You are also welcome to include a brief caption describing the photo you submit.

During Synod Assembly the following positions will be elected to. Nominations have been received and reviewed by the Nominating Committee. We will also receive nominations from the floor according to the rules of the assembly. The positions that are up for election this year include:
  • Synod Council (3-year term, may serve two (2) consecutive terms)
    • One (1) rostered female
    • One (1) lay female
    • Two (2) lay male
  • Consultation Committee (6-year term, may serve only one (1) term)
    • One (1) rostered female
    • Two (2) lay female
  • Discipline Committee (6-year term, may serve only one (1) term)
    • One (1) rostered male
    • One (1) rostered female
    • One (1) lay male
    • One (1) lay female
  Click here for biographical information on those nominated ahead of Assembly (PDF)

+ During Assembly, if you are nominating someone from the floor, or have been nominated from the floor, please click here to submit biographical information. Please complete the form by no later than 11:05 a.m., Saturday, May 17 OR the time specified by the Assembly Chair.

If you are planning to attend assembly as a voting member or a guest please prayerfully consider volunteering. Our theme this year, Partnership for the Sake of the Gospel, reminds us that it takes a whole community to make events like this successful. We are incredibly grateful for all who have already given their time and energy to make this gathering possible! We are seeking volunteers to assist with various aspects of the Assembly. Whether you have an hour to spare or can commit to a full day, your help is invaluable in creating a welcoming and engaging experience for all attendees. Below are the areas we are planning for the need for volunteers. If you are attending Assembly and wish to volunteer, you may sign-up by CLICKING HERE.

Projected Ways to Serve & Role Descriptions:

  • AV & Tech Support – Assist with microphones, presentations, and digital needs. Volunteers should be comfortable with basic audio-visual equipment and willing to troubleshoot minor tech issues. Training will be provided if necessary.
  • Registration & Credentials – Greet attendees, provide name tags, verify credentials, and assist with check-in. Volunteers should be organized, comfortable with using a computer and comfortable interacting with people.
  • Worship Set Up Team – Assist in setting up worship spaces, arranging materials, and ensuring all elements are in place for worship services. Volunteers should be attentive to detail and able to follow setup instructions.
  • Event Set Up – Help arrange tables, chairs, and displays before the event begins. Volunteers should be able to lift and move materials as needed.
  • Event Take Down – Assist with cleaning up and packing away materials after the event concludes. Volunteers should be able to lift and move materials and follow cleanup instructions.
  • Hospitality/Greeter – Welcome attendees, provide directions, and create a warm, inviting atmosphere. Volunteers should be friendly, approachable, and ready to assist with general inquiries.
  • Kids Corner – Supervise and engage children in age-appropriate activities during the event. Volunteers should enjoy working with children and be able to create a fun and safe environment.
  • Elections Committee – Assist with the business portion of the meeting, including tallying votes, distributing ballots, and ensuring a smooth election process. Volunteers should be detail-oriented and comfortable handling confidential information.
  • Decorating Team – Help design and set up decorations, including table centerpieces, the stage, and registration tables. Volunteers should have a creative eye and be willing to assist with arranging and enhancing the space to reflect the event’s theme.

This year’s Synod Assembly service project is an ingathering for Second Harvest Foodbank of Southern Wisconsin. Hunger is a reality in 1 of 10 people in Southern Wisconsin. Second Harvest Foodbank believes that everyone in our communities should have equal access to nutritious, affordable, and culturally-meaningful food. Through their core services of food acquisition & storage, food distribution, and FoodShare Outreach they provide those facing hunger across southern Wisconsin access to enough nutritious food to thrive. Second Harvest serves almost every community in our synod territory and several of our synod congregations are partners who receive food for their pantries or host vital mobile pantries.
  • Last year, Second Harvest Foodbank distributed 26.8 million pounds of food.
  • In FY24, 64% of the food Second Harvest distributed was fresh produce, canned vegetables, fruits, dairy, or high-protein foods.
  • For every $10 that comes into Second Harvest, we can provide $24 in groceries.
  • Second Harvest Foodbank helps provide the equivalent of 61,282 meals a day.
  • Since its inception in 1986, Second Harvest Foodbank has helped provide over 264 million meals.
At Assembly we are going to collect non-perishable food items that we will then distribute to Second Harvest. You can find a list of their most needed items here: English / Spanish. Almost any non-perishable, non-glass, food can be donated. For those who wish to make a monetary donation, you may donate directly to Second Harvest online through our fundraising page @ https://donate.secondharvestsw.org/scsw2025.

We are delighted to share that child care will be available during the Saturday portion of our synod assembly. The child care area will be set up in the same room, similar to that of a "prayground" area that many congregations now have. Child care will be available for children ages six weeks to nine years old. If you will need child care at the assembly, please click the button below to complete a brief questionnaire.

The Marriott Madison-West is compliant with all required provisions of The Americans with Disabilities Act along with additional Marriott standards with regards to all of the public spaces we will be utilizing for Assembly. There are many public restrooms available including handicap accessible restrooms and restrooms available with baby changing stations.

If you are going to be staying overnight at the Marriott and are in need of an accessible room, please contact the hotel by phone for reservations as part of our room block using group code: SYNSYNA.

Any questions regarding the hotel's accessibility features please call the hotel at (608) 831-2000.