The North Carolina Synod of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America (ELCA) is hosting their 2026 Synod Gathering at Lenoir-Rhyne University in Hickory from May 28-30, 2026. 

The workshop title is: Expanding Church & School Partnerships to Help Neighbors Thrive

Are you looking for ways to reach out to your community to love your neighbors and bring good news to the poor, especially our most vulnerable children?

Connecting your congregation with your local public school is a great way to help our communities thrive and ensure all children have what they need to flourish. Through a combination of presentation and group conversation, this workshop will bring together leaders and congregations who already have a partnership with a local school and congregations who want to develop a partnership. We will discuss best practices for churches to support their local schools, including what’s working in our locations, pitfalls to avoid, and ideas we have for further ministry. We will focus on both immediate direct service to schools and longer-term systemic change for public education. Participants will leave with ideas, resources, and encouragement for the work ahead!

Presented by Rev. Suzanne Parker Miller

Register By May 5th!