Election Process

Southwestern Washington Synod - Bishop Election 2025

Electing a bishop is one of the most important responsibilities in the life of a synod in the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America and a key responsibility of the Synod Assembly.

As an election, it is a process governed by the constitution, bylaws, and continuing resolutions of the synod; however, it is also a call process. As such, it involves discernment, from the perspective both of individual potential nominees and of the synod as a whole. Thus, engaging in prayerful reflection and seeking the guidance of the Holy Spirit are indispensable aspects of the process of nomination and election.

Please check back often, as we publish valuable information and tools for a successful election season.

Bishop Election 2025 - Candidate Pre-Identification

During the Pre-Identification process, four rostered leaders expressed that they are open to being nominated for the next Southwestern Washington Synod bishop.

Although we received these pre-identification forms, nominations will be open for all active rostered leaders of the ELCA on the day of the Synod Assembly during the first "Ecclesiastical Ballot".

Here are the pre-identified candidates for nomination: