Gathering under the theme “We Are Church,” members of the ELCA began meeting in Milwaukee August 5 for the 2019 ELCA Churchwide Assembly, the highest legislative authority of the ELCA.
“Jesus is the living water,” said Chris Boerger, secretary of the ELCA, in his sermon during Monday’s opening worship. “Jesus is telling his followers that their job is to let this living water flow through them. The church is the water fountain for a thirsty world.”
During the week, assembly participants will spend time in worship, Bible study and plenary discussions.
In the first plenary session, the assembly received the final report of the ELCA’s first major fundraising campaign, “Always Being Made New: The Campaign for the ELCA,” which concluded June 30. It was announced to the assembly that the campaign has raised $250 million in cash, multiyear commitments and planned gift commitments.
The assembly also cast the first ballot for ELCA presiding bishop.
Read about the other key actions to be considered by voting members here.
