I spent most of this past week in Chicago for the spring Conference of Bishops. Per usual, we learned, heard reports, had conversation, worshiped, prayed, made some decisions, and talked some more. The executive committee of the COB intentionally planned a time for topic conversations, 2-hour working groups. This is in the same spirit of what Lisa Therrell, NWIM Synod Vice President, and I have tried to do with our large synod council–give people time for longer discussions around topics in smaller groups. At each COB, a different region takes a turn planning and leading worship. This time it was Region 6’s turn (lower Michigan, Ohio, Indiana-Kentucky). I love how we get to know bishops better through their worship planning, leadership, and preaching and that was certainly true this time. I always love singing with these colleagues and I love being introduced to hymns in All Creation Sings that I have not yet learned. It is always good to lay down some of our burdens to one another and cheer each other on. I will be going to Churchwide Assembly this summer with others from the NWIM Synod and appreciated the orientation to registration and what the week in Phoenix will look like, plus getting technical tips from more seasoned bishops. We will be electing a new Presiding Bishop and ELCA Secretary at that Assembly. Between now and then there will be many bishops elections at synod assemblies.

We said goodbye to eleven bishops, including Bishop Eaton, at this COB meeting. I will miss all of them. I read Bishop Rinehart’s blog long before I became a bishop. I followed Bishop Ortiz’ writings and ministry as well. Bishop Kusserow, Rinehart, and Eaton are all finishing 18 years in the COB–lots of history. Bishop Bartholemew was the chair of the COB when I started.

Bp Rick Jaech, Southwestern WA, has served for 12 years and has been my colleague for two years in Region 1. He graciously stepped in and presided at my installation when Bishop Eaton could not be present because of a death in the family. I’m grateful for every phone call he has taken.

Bp Lorna Halaas is the only bishop I called while deciding whether or not to accept a nomination. I admired how she was leading my first-call synod of Western Iowa and the Manloves and Halaases have a history, though I didn’t know Lorna well before calling her. I remember her telling me what an honor it is to visit the congregations, and that has been so true for me too. I also called her shortly after I was elected, and she gave me a couple pieces of excellent practical advice.

It is an honor to be part of the COB; it’s always good to get home.