Grace and peace to you!
We are writing to provide you with a quick update with regard to the transition between the tenure of Bishop Michael and Bishop-Elect Carla as Eastern Synod bishop and to address a matter of deep concern to both of us.
Bishop-Elect Carla is currently concluding her ministry in Saskatchewan and will begin work in the Eastern Synod on Sept 25th. She will formally begin her tenure as bishop following her ordination on Saturday Sept 28th at 2:00 at a yet to be determined location. Until this date, we would ask that you please direct all inquiries and concerns to Bishop Michael. After the ordination Bishop (retired) Michael and Bishop Carla will work together for several weeks to ensure a smooth transition. Bishop-Elect Carla is eager to begin working with the current staff team and they are most eager to welcome her!
With heavy hearts, we also feel obliged to offer an additional word about some deeply concerning homophobic references that were made concerning a candidate in our electoral processes at the Eastern Synod Assembly. This has been reported by multiple sources. These reported comments have caused significant harm to several individuals and have reflected poorly on our church’s stated commitment to upholding the principles articulated in the ELCIC Social Statement on Human Sexuality. The Synod Council will review this matter during their next regularly scheduled meeting and make a determination regarding next steps.
The need for us to be ever vigilant in living those principles was made sadly apparent, just days after our Assembly, when a violent assault was directed against the home of one of our rostered leaders while he was gathered with family and friends. How can we claim to combat behaviour of this kind in the wider community when we refuse to condemn similarly hurtful, if less violent, behaviour in our own faith community?
We, as leaders, strongly condemn any language or action that discredits any of God’s beloved, regardless of race, orientation or gender identity. We strive to foster a culture in our churches, our synod and our communities where all people are free to be who they are as God’s beloved. We can and must do better.
In conclusion, we look forward to communicating further transition updates to you as required in the coming weeks and months. In the meantime, we thank you for your prayers for each of us and for the entire Eastern Synod leadership team as this transition takes place. May God grant you a blessed, restful and restorative summer season.
With deep gratitude for you all,
Bishop Michael Pryse and Bishop-Elect Carla Blakely