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RMC Delegate Robert Cass Reflects on General Synod 35

This was my first General Synod of the United Church of Christ.  I attended as just a visitor, no voting or representation responsibilities.  I had always heard that General Synod was an educational and inspirational experience, and you know what? It was!

A General Synod is a combination 5-day long worship service and business meeting.  It is held every 2 years (now 3 years) as a means for the UCC as a whole, all the Conferences nationwide, to gather and conduct the business of our denomination. Keynote addresses are given, officers are elected, Ministers called, resolutions debated and passed (but not always), reports presented, recognition given, worship held, new friendships made, and old friendships rekindled.  

During a committee meeting and the plenary sessions I saw “how the sausage is made.”  Contrary to what one may think, we are not a monolithic denomination where everyone marches in lock-step.  We are a denomination of diverse ideas, positions, and voices.  On some of the resolutions there was vigorous debate and discussion with opposing views expressed.  On many resolutions where there was general agreement on the position, there was often vigorous discussion on the “process” of getting the resolution to a vote; title changes, inclusive language, etc.  However, thanks to the gentle and loving guidance of the Moderators and Parliamentarians, all were heard and respected, and consensus reached.  Indeed, that is “how we make the sausage in the UCC.”  Eleven resolutions were ultimately brought to the floor, all but one eventually passed.  Please follow this link to the General Synod webpage to explore details.

My intent in this report was not to detail the “goings on” of the General Synod, but simply to share my impressions, reflections, and feelings.  Was it worth the time and expense to travel and attend? Absolutely!   Did my feelings about the UCC as a nationwide, mainline protestant denomination change? Yes, it greatly deepened my appreciation!  Will I attend the next one? More than likely!  And, on that note: the next General Synod , GS36, will be held in Cleveland, OH in 2028.  It will be a celebration of the 70 years (actually 71, but who’s counting) since the Congregational Christian Churches and the German Evangelical and Reformed Church marched down the streets of Cleveland to join and become the United Church of Christ: “That They May All Be One.”