As we look to live and address faithfully God’s continued mission in, with, and through the Northwestern Ohio Synod, our purpose statement and guiding principles will guide the ministry of the Office of the Bishop and the Northwestern Ohio.
These documents will not reflect radical changes in the work or direction of the Office of the Bishop, but will reflect the future and anticipated ministry needs of congregations and leadership. In doing so, the Office will review the continual congregational and pastoral feedback received.
These documents also embody and reflect the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America’s mission statement of Marked with the cross of Christ forever, we are claimed gathered and sent for the sake of the world.
Goals for the next five years:
Empowered by the Holy Spirit, we will seek to be a church that is always grounded and centered in God’s promises in Christ; and, therefore all that we are and do will be Christ centered.
Our rostered leaders (pastors, AIMs, diaconal ministers, etc.),called to be leaders transformed by the cross of Christ, will continue to be transformed.
Our lay leadership will be equipped for building up the church for mission.
Our congregations will be engaged in God’s mission in, with, for and to the world.
Our synod will provide and share resources for faith formation, leadership development and congregational mission development and implementation.
Affirmed by the Northwestern Ohio Synod Assembly May 2005