Preparing
Throughout the fall of 2025 and winter of 2026, the Bishop Election Committee (BEC) has been considering the best way to help individuals and congregations reflect on the work of the synod and discern what kind of leader we need to guide us into the future. We have benefited and learned from the good work of other synods, in particular the Southwestern Washington and St. Paul Area Synods.
A bishop election is a combination of both a rigorously defined synod constitutional election and a high stakes call process requiring prayerful reflection and discernment. The BEC will cautiously and deliberately hold these activities in tension as we seek to help the synod discern what kind of leader we need and who that might be. We will spend the winter months asking questions and listening to as many people as we can. In the spring we will lift up possible leaders and help the synod get to know them. And in the weeks prior to the assembly, we will prepare for the election by encouraging conversation and prayer.
Survey
We have released a survey to elicit feedback about qualities desired in a new bishop. The results will be used to guide our future listening sessions. Your answers are needed by April 10.
Ministry Site Profile (MSP)
A site profile is being compiled with detailed information about the synod, including mission and purpose, demographics, leadership and administration, budget, and ministry partners. This will be completed prior to the Pre-Identified Persons Forum, near May 16.
Listening Sessions
There will be several listening sessions to explore qualities desired in a new bishop.
Much like a Ministry Site Profile for a congregation, an MSP for the synod will include an overview of current mission and purpose, context, and partnerships. This can be useful to both potential candidates as a part of their discernment process, as well as to voting members as a tool to help them understand the context to which the bishop is called to serve.
Holy One, we are on overload these days with information, events and concerns. Calm our hearts, quiet our minds and open our spirits as we prepare to call a new bishop for the Metropolitan Chicago Synod. Speak to those who would best lead us into your future, urging them to follow your call. And give us each confidence that you are part of this process, guiding, challenging and supporting us. Through Jesus Christ, who is our hope. Amen.