Pastor’s Corner “Synod 2026”

November 12-14, representatives from all the churches in our Diocese of the Mid-Atlantic will gather for our annual Synod. I asked Andy Oravetz, one of Immanuel’s lay delegates and a person knowledgeable of the inner workings of Anglican polity, to tell us more about this important gathering:

Growing up one of the things that I enjoyed was a holiday dinner at my grandmother’s. Coming from a very large extended family, there was always large amounts of food, especially desserts, all homemade. Well, now older, I still look forward to certain annual meetings. One of these is the annual meeting (Synod) of the Diocese that Immanuel is a part of, the Diocese of the Mid Atlantic. Once a year in November, the deacons and presbyters of the diocese, along with lay delegates chosen by the individual churches and the lay members of the Standing Committee gather for several days. Immanuel’s lay delegation is Mike Harpster, Gary Motsek, and Andrew Oravetz. Monika Dew is the alternate. Angela Morlu is attending in her capacity as a lay member of the Standing Committee. Travis Hines+ will attend as a clergy member of the Diocese.

The clergy gather first with Bishop Warner Thursday afternoon through Friday morning. This is followed by the arrival of the lay delegates. Friday afternoon consists of an excellent group of speakers. After an evening meal, the night ends with the ordinations of deacons and a service of Holy Eucharist.

The Synod concludes Saturday morning with the business meeting. The Bishop gives an address which is followed by elections to diocesan committees and adoption of the annual budget.

Regarding Synod, Bishop Warner writes, “The theme for this year’s Synod is, Rooted. Why Rooted? It’s an obvious reminder that our roots in the gospel and the Anglican tradition shape our work of ministry, but it’s also a call to remember that fruitful ministry depends on deepening roots in Christ. This year Truro Anglican Church in Fairfax, VA is hosting, and we’re hopeful this will be a memorable time of worship, fellowship, learning, and celebrating all that God is doing throughout the diocese.”

He continues, “Rooted isn’t simply the theme of our Synod. It’s an invitation to remember who we are and whose we are, as we worship together, encourage one another, and look toward the future God is calling us into. Saturday includes the business of Synod, but it will also be a time to hear and celebrate stories of God’s faithfulness. We’ll share reports and testimonies highlighting the good work happening through our churches, clergy, and ministries across the Diocese.

“Whether this is your first Synod or you’ve been coming for years, Synod 2026: Rooted is a chance to worship together, connect with one another, be equipped for ministry, and celebrate what God is doing among us.”

While only delegates may vote at Synod, everyone is invited to attend the gatherings on November 13-14. Register here if you’d like to participate in this time of worship, teaching, and encouragement. I strongly encourage you to join us!

Your Pastor in Christ,