Pre-Identification
After listening, reflection and prayer, voting members for the synod assembly will lift up people for consideration. While this process will name six pre-identified individuals (plus ties), this does not mean others cannot be considered at the synod assembly. We remain open to the Spirit’s movement.
As part of the ongoing discernment for the next bishop of the Metropolitan Chicago Synod, voting members of the upcoming Synod Assembly will be invited to prayerfully identify a pastor whom they believe could serve faithfully in this role.
This pre-identification process helps the synod listen for the movement of the Holy Spirit among its people as it prepares for the election of a new bishop. It is important to note that this is not a nomination; formal nominations will begin with the ecclesiastical ballot at the Synod Assembly.
Each voting member may submit one pre-identification form. After the canvass period closes, biographical information will be shared for the six (plus ties) pastors who receive the highest number of identifications and are willing to be considered for nomination.
In the weeks that follow, the synod will host opportunities (both in-person and online) for the wider community to learn more about these pastors, their ministries, and their discernment of call at this time.
The synod invites all members to hold this process and its leaders in prayer, trusting that the Holy Spirit is guiding our church toward faithful and courageous leadership for the years ahead.
All voting members for the 2026 Metropolitan Chicago Synod Assembly may pre-identify potential candidates for bishop.
According to the Constitution of the Metropolitan Chicago Synod (ELCA), the following individuals can vote at a Synod Assembly, provided they are registered for the gathering:
Rostered Ministers Under Call
All ministers of Word and Sacrament and ministers of Word and Service under call on the roster of this synod are voting members of the Synod Assembly.
Lay Members Elected by Congregations
- Each congregation with fewer than 175 baptized members elects one lay voting member.
Each congregation with 175 or more baptized members elects at least two lay voting members (typically one man and one woman).
The Synod Council establishes a formula for additional lay representation based on congregation size, seeking approximately 45% women and 45% men among lay voters.
Synod Officers
The officers of the synod (bishop, vice president, secretary, and treasurer) are voting members.
Retired, On Leave, or Disabled Rostered Ministers
Ministers who are retired, on leave from call, or have been granted disability status may become voting members if elected by the Synod Council. They must notify the bishop’s office of their desire to serve at least 60 days before the assembly.
Ministers Serving Under Contract
Ministers of Word and Sacrament or Word and Service serving as interim ministers under contract in a congregation of the synod at the time of the Assembly may also be voting members.
Synod Council Members (if not otherwise voting)
Duly elected members of the Synod Council who are not already voting members under other provisions are granted voice and vote at the Synod Assembly.
Additional Voting Members by Synod Council Process
The Synod Council may establish processes allowing:
- Representatives of authorized worshiping communities or congregations under development, and
- Ministers from full-communion partner churches serving within the synod to serve as voting members
| Category | Voting Rights | Conditions |
|---|---|---|
| Rostered Ministers under call | Yes | Automatically voting members |
| Lay members elected by congregations | Yes | 1 or 2+ depending on congregation size |
| Synod officers | Yes | Automatic |
| Retired/on leave/disabled ministers | Yes | If elected by Synod Council |
| Interim ministers | Yes | If serving under contract at Assembly time |
| Synod Council members | Yes | If not already voting |
| Representatives of new ministries | Possible | If authorized by Synod Council |
| Ministers from full-communion partners | Possible | During period of service in a congregation |
Watch for links soon to these forms:
Biographical Information
Disclosure Form
Authorization and Release for Background Checks and Screening
Holy One, you do not look on outward appearances but on the heart. Raise up for your church those who can best lead and serve this synod in the years to come. May our deliberations be filled with grace and humility. May our discernment be a reflection of your love and wisdom. And in all things may we seek to do your will. Through Jesus Christ, who is our hope. Amen.