The Board of Directors of the WordAlone Network gathered for its quarterly meeting Jan. 9-10 in La Habra, Calif.

Positive reports were presented to the board about the November “Reclaiming Evangelical Worship Conference” at Zion Lutheran Church in Anoka, Minn. Evaluations turned in and conversations generated indicate this continuing education event was well received across the Network. It is clear there is a strong interest in continuing our present pattern of two large events:a spring convention and a fall continuing education program. Next fall’s event will center on the renewal of Christ’s church through evangelism, with a strong emphasis on Bible study. It will offer workshops on preaching.

Plans for this spring’s convention, April 25-27 are being solidified. We will gather around the theme, “In the Beginning Was the Word . . . Who Gets the Last Word? All attending will be able to discuss the questions facing the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America (ELCA) regarding sexuality, possible changes to the church’s ministry standards and our understanding of marriage. Our scheduled keynote speakers are: New Testament scholars Dr. Roy Harrisville III (Plymouth, Minn.) and Dr. David Balch (Brite Divinity School, Fort Worth, Texas); systematic theologians Dr. Marc Kolden (Luther Seminary, St. Paul, Minn.) and Dr. Paul Jersild (professor emeritus, Southern Seminary, Columbia, S.C.); and psychologists Dr. Warren Throckmorton (Grove City College, Penn.) and Dr. Simon Rosser (University of Minnesota, Minneapolis).

A vision for the future of the Network and a report on our continuing efforts in the areas of renewal, reform and deeper theological reflection was shared. These prompted extensive discussion about proposals to establish a non-geographic synod originating not only out of WordAlone congregations and supporters but also extending beyond our present constituency. The possibility is being worked on with a variety of pastors from across the church and will be brought to the spring convention for further discussion and planning.

The treasurer’s report revealed that even though the Network ran short of its budgeted income, good stewardship of available funds kept the final numbers for the year in the black and kept WordAlone current on all accounts payable. The board thanks the congregations, chapters and many individuals who provide the strong support WordAlone receives.