If you were anywhere in West Michigan during our Synod Winter Connection Days, you know exactly what we were up against. Bitter cold temperatures and truly difficult road conditions which prompted about half of our participants to cancel.
As the event unfolded, our schedule shifted more than once. Plans to the Muskegon Sports Park were cancelled due to the cold temperature. The Muskegon Museum of Art was also closed due to the weather. It wasn’t the event we originally envisioned, but it still became something meaningful.
Despite the changes in our schedule, we gathered for a lovely time of worship, grounding our days in prayer and gratitude and the reminder that God meets us wherever we are. The spirit carried through the rest of our time together, including a fun and laughter-filled trivia night that brought out both our competitive sides and our joy in simply being together.
We were blessed with wonderful presentations by Joel Westerholm and Bishop Julie who shared insights on art and religion, sparking thoughtful conversation and different perspectives. It was one of those moments that reminded us how faith connects with every part of creativity, beauty and the ways we interpret the world around us.
Even without a full day of activities, the heart of our Synod Connection Days remained strong in fellowship. We ended our time together by gathering at Pastor Bill’s condo (an absolutely gorgeous remodel of a YMCA built 100 years ago) where we shared in conversation, and of course FOOD.
Our Synod Connection Days may not have gone according to plan, but it still offered exactly what we hoped for: community, fellowship and connection. Thank you to everyone who was able to attend AND to those who stayed home to keep themselves safe. A huge thank you to Pastor Bill Uetricht and the people of First Lutheran Church in Muskegon for hosting us so graciously. Your hospitality, flexibility and warm welcome made all the difference, especially as plans shifted. We are grateful for the time you shared with us.
No matter the weather, we remain connected in Christ and in our shared life together.