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Periodically, the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America (ELCA) holds consultations throughout the world to encourage companion synods and churches to grow deeper in their relationships and conversations. This year, a small delegation from the Northern Illinois Synod, including Bishop Stacie Fidlar, traveled to India to strengthen our relationship with Arcot Lutheran Church, our companion church in India.
Joining Bishop Fidlar was Vice President Minnette Willard, Pastor Josh Ebener, Pastor Mack Patrick, and WELCA Representative Deb Quinn. The intentional time of relationship building began at the Henry Martyn Institute in Hyderabad where we were led in conversations that rooted us in accompaniment, reflected on where we have been, and began talking about what we hoped our relationships can be in the future.
After several days in Hyderabad, our group traveled with our companions to the Tamil Nadu region in South India for time visiting church-supported ministries and hearing stories from their pastors and leaders. Our time spent in the Arcot Lutheran Church area was fruitful as we heard stories of church life; many places are facing the same struggles that our congregations are facing today. Throughout the trip, our group focused on how we might build relationship and tell the story of our companions in a way that connects us as the body of Christ around the world.
As we continue to grow in our relationship with the Arcot Lutheran Church, we are excited to find new ways to connect companion congregations and to share stories and resources across the church. You are invited to read through several reflections our group members wrote about their time in India.
To read a reflection, click a link below.
Bishop Stacie Fidlar's Reflections from India
Vice President Minnette Willard's Reflections from India
