Are you stepping into a leadership role in your congregation? Perhaps you’re serving on your Church Council and want a clearer sense of what that entails. Or maybe it’s your turn to guide your congregation as President, Vice President, Treasurer, or Secretary. Whatever your role, we have an exciting opportunity just for you!

You are warmly invited to join us for a gathering of Church Council Officers.

Whether you are new to the role or a seasoned professional, this event promises to be a morning of inspiration, connection, and equipping for the vital work you do in your congregation.

Saturday, February 21, 2026

United Lutheran Seminary

Brossman Center, Benbow Hall

7241 Germantown Ave., Philadelphia

Registration will begin at 8:00 am in Benbow Hall with a full breakfast provided. Program will begin at 9:00 am and end by Noon.

You will hear from our Vice President, Cheryl Lafferty and Bishop Bryan Penman. Pastor Karl Richard, our Synod’s Secretary and Mrs. Janet Neff, our Synod’s Treasurer will give presentations specific to the roles of secretaries and treasurers in breakout sessions.

Here’s what you can look forward to:

• Inspiration and Guidance: Hear directly from Bishop Penman and key Synod leaders as they share the vision and mission of the Southeastern Pennsylvania Synod, which is “to equip the saints for the work of ministry.”
• Clarity and Support: Gain practical insights into how the Synod can empower and support you in your role as a congregational leader.
• Exciting Opportunities: Learn about impactful Synod initiatives such as our Lilly Endowment Grants, Love Revolution, and Faith Alive programs.
• Meet and Connect: Meet Synod staff members and network with other congregational leaders from across our Synod.

This is a unique chance to deepen your connection with the Synod, strengthen your leadership skills, and build relationships with fellow leaders. We encourage you to mark your calendar and make plans to join us for this enriching morning.

Treasurers and financial leaders of congregations will enhance their understanding of budgeting, financial procedures, and accounting practices.

During this gathering, participants will have the opportunity to:

• Engage in informative discussions about effective budgeting strategies.
• Learn best practices for financial procedures tailored to the needs of congregations.
• Gain insights into accounting methods that ensure transparency and accountability within your community.

Council secretaries will enhance their understanding of retention guidelines, the keeping of minutes and constitutional updates and amendments.

During this gathering, participants will have the opportunity to:

• Hear more about amendments to model constitutions from the Churchwide Assembly.
• Learn best practices for the retention of congregational records.
• Gain insights from others who serve in this role about congregational record keeping.