The Evangelical Lutheran Synod (ELS) held its annual convention on June 16-18, 2025. Over 200 pastors and lay delegates gathered on the campus of Bethany Lutheran College in Mankato, Minnesota, for the convention. The convention opened each day in the college chapel with devotions led by ELS pastors. A communion service was also held for convention attendees and members of our fellowship.
The convention celebrated the 500th Anniversary of the writing of “The Bondage of the Will” by Martin Luther with the theme, “The Bondage of the Will: I Cannot by My Own Reason or Strength…” Rev. David Jay Webber delivered the convention essay of the same title.
Delegates and pastors reviewed the work of the ELS boards and committees from the past year and made recommendations for future work. A report on the challenges facing Bethany Lutheran College was delivered, and all present were urged to continue prayers and support for the college.
Two pastors from the Evangelical Lutheran Diocese of Kenya (ELDK) attended and brought greetings to the convention. This church body is applying for membership in the CELC. The Evangelical Lutheran Synod thanks our gracious God for the fellowship we enjoy with the CELC.
Photos, video, and the convention essay are available at this link: els.org/convention
Submitted by Rev. Paul Fries, ELS Communication Director
