Nearly 300 attend Synod Revival held at Grand View University
On Saturday, May 20 the Southeastern Iowa Synod hosted a Revival at Grand View University in Des Moines, Iowa. Nearly 300 people gathered from across Southeastern Iowa. Bishop Amy Current, of the Southeastern Iowa Synod, opened the event with a welcome from the Synod, and Dr. Rachelle Keck, President of Grand View University offered a greeting and welcome from the university community.
Bishop Yehiel Curry of the Metropolitan Chicago Synod, ELCA engaged participants in scripture and reflection on the discouraging ideas that hold us back, and the hopeful images that draw us forward. Rachel Kurtz, an accomplished Lutheran musician, played several original songs and led those gathered in worship through music. Families enjoyed arts and crafts, bounce houses and other family activities.
More than 20 area non-profits, congregations, and ministries set up displays to inform and engage those who attended with their work in anti-hunger, justice, political advocacy, and anti-poverty efforts. Click here to see a full list and learn more about those ministries. 300 “compassion kits” were packed, consisting of items like socks, water and toothbrush, and toothpaste. They will be distributed to those at intersections, who live in temporary shelters or struggle with homelessness.
The event concluded with a worship service of Holy Communion, focusing on the theme of the event, “Imagine” inspired by Ephesians chapter three. Britt Swanson of Lutheran Lakeside Camp and Pastor José Pilar, of Lutheran Latino Ministries in the Quad Cities shared testimonies of faith. Bishop Amy Current of the Southeastern Iowa Synod preached and presided.
This event was made possible through event sponsorships, including a grant from the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America and donations from Grand View University, Lutheran Services in Iowa, Faith Lutheran Church in Clive, First Lutheran Church in Cedar Rapids, St. Paul Lutheran Church in Davenport, and the Cellar Winery in Madrid.
