SOUTHWESTERN TEXAS SYNOD
Ray Tiemann, Bishop – 67,902 baptized members -173 congregations Including 5 missions and 2 synodically authorized worshipping communities.
Southwestern Texas Synod is United in Christ, Diverse in People, Called by the Spirit, equipping the people of God to be instruments of God’s love.
Southwestern Texas Synod emphases:
1. Hispanic Ministry - We are very intentional in outreach to all people, especially Hispanic. Our Hispanic Ministry Coalition Council will lead this endeavor. The creation of “El Instituto,” an ecumenical lay training center in the Rio Grande Valley, will help growth in leadership and mission.
2. Cooperative Ministry - We seek to work together for the good of Christ’s church, being supportive of each other’s calls and ministries. We currently have one cooperative ministry that includes 8 congregations and 3 clergy on staff.
3. Evangelism Strategy - Following the ELCA’s Evangelism Strategy, the synod has established an excellent task force to implement this emphasis. Educational opportunities and spiritual growth events will be offered for all.
4. Youth and Youth Ministry - Youth in this synod enjoy senior and junior high gatherings, with a combined total of over 1000 in attendance. There is also a Young Adult Resource Person (YARP) team of college-aged youth to assist congregations.
