Curry, who was elected July 30 to serve a six-year term as ELCA presiding bishop. He will be installed on Oct 4 at at Central Lutheran Church in Minneapolis.
The election of a new presiding bishop is a pivotal moment for any denomination. It marks the turning of a page, the beginning of a new chapter, and an opportunity for renewal and reflection across the entire church. With the election of the Rev. Yehiel Curry, the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America (ELCA) stands at one of these significant junctures. As we look ahead to his six-year term, it is a natural and necessary time to ask one of the most important questions a community of faith can ask: Where are we going?
Leadership, at its heart, is about inspiring a shared direction. While a presiding bishop helps set the tone and priorities for the church at a national level, the energy and momentum for true transformation always rise from the ground up—in our synods, our communities, and our local congregations. This moment of transition is a powerful invitation for every member of the ELCA to engage in the very same work Bishop Curry will be undertaking: the spiritual practice of casting a vision.
For many congregations, the daily and weekly rhythms of ministry can lead to a focus on maintenance rather than mission. We keep the programs running and the lights on, but we can lose sight of our collective “why.” Why do we exist? What unique calling has God placed on our church, in our specific neighborhood, at this particular time? A change in church-wide leadership serves as a catalyst, prompting us to lift our heads and look toward the horizon.
Casting a vision is more than just strategic planning; it is an act of faith. It is the communal work of listening for the Holy Spirit, discerning God’s preferred future for us, and courageously stepping out to meet it. A compelling vision unites a congregation around a common purpose, giving new meaning to everything from the annual budget meeting to the Sunday school lesson. It transforms our routines into sacred acts and our service into a direct response to the Gospel.
As Bishop Curry prepares to lead, let us also prepare to follow—not just him, but the Spirit who calls us all forward. This is the perfect time for our own congregations to ask the big questions and dream a new dream for our ministry.
To help your congregation start this vital conversation, a powerful article in Living Lutheran offers a guide to the challenges and blessings of this essential work.
Ready to explore what it takes to cast a powerful vision for your church? Read the full article, “Casting a Vision for the Church,” on the Living Lutheran website to get started.