Celebrating the Success of EMI 2025: Engaging Conflict

This year’s Early Ministry Institute (EMI) proved once again to be a transformative experience for our emerging pastors across the Synod of the Northeast. Held over the course of a dynamic week, the 2025 EMI gathered leaders from across the region under the theme: Engaging Conflict, equipping participants with tools to navigate difficult conversations and divisive moments—including those touching on sensitive political issues—with compassion, wisdom, and integrity.

Rev. Dr. James Fenimore and Rev. Carol Howard led the core sessions, guiding participants through practical frameworks for understanding and addressing conflict. Their leadership helped foster a brave and honest space where attendees could engage in meaningful dialogue, reflect on their own responses to conflict, and build skills for ministry in a divided world.

Adding depth to the week’s journey, Rev. Jennifer Layte offered a soul-nurturing plenary on Spiritual Direction, grounding the group in spiritual practices that sustain ministry leaders in challenging seasons. Many participants took advantage of the opportunity to meet with Rev. Layte one-on-one for mini spiritual direction sessions—each one a sacred moment of reflection, discernment, and renewal.

We were also honored to receive a powerful and practical plenary from our very own Synod Transitional Leader, Rev. Dr. SanDawna Gaulman Ashley, who shared wisdom on Organizational Design. Her session offered hands-on strategies for creating systems and structures that support thriving, adaptive leadership in ministry contexts.

The week culminated with a moving evening worship service led by the Third Year Cohort, under the mentorship of Revs. Chad Rodgers and Pat Raube. During this final gathering, we celebrated the accomplishments and faithful journey of our graduating cohort members:

  • Todd Young

  • Inna Nikolyukin

  • Kirsty Dickson-Maret

  • Vinod Gnanaraj

  • Marranda Major

  • Mike Yeoman

We celebrate their growth, resilience, and faithful commitment as they continue serving in their respective ministry contexts.

The success of EMI 2025 stands as a testament to the strength of community, courageous leadership, and Spirit-led formation. We extend our gratitude to the EMI Design Team for their vision and dedication in shaping this impactful week, and we eagerly anticipate how God will continue to work in and through these gifted leaders."

Mark Bennett