1. What is the Synod of the Northeast’s vision process?

The Synod’s vision process is a structured journey of discernment, collaboration, and innovation to reimagine our role in supporting presbyteries, congregations, and ministries. It builds on insights from the Discernment Team, established in 2022, and seeks to amplify our connectional identity rooted in core values of Spirit-led innovation; radical welcome & inclusion; justice-driven collaboration, and adaptive leadership & growth.

2. What are the key phases of this process?

After the commissioning from the Synod, the Discernment Team gathered and chartered a course grounded in deep listening throughout the Synod in each Phase.

Phase I Report (2023): Focused on “What Is Our Impact: Strengths, Connections, and Areas of Transformation”—examined the Synod’s New Way Forward Vision, identified areas where it is thriving, and uncovered opportunities for growth and transformation. This was accomplished through listening sessions (in-person & online), independent surveys, and review of current practices.

Phase II Report (2024): Focused on grants and programs, analyzed their alignment with Synod goals, effectiveness, and potential for expanding ministries through site visits and review. This phase also identified areas for new program development and improvement in grant distribution.

Phase III Final Report – Reimagining the Church in the World (2025): This report will outline the final vision and strategy for the Synod’s future and will be presented for approval on November 15, 2025, at a special called Assembly meeting.

3. Why is this vision process important for the Synod?

The Synod of the Northeast serves as a regional governing body that supports 19 presbyteries across eight states—spanning New Jersey, New York, and New England. This region reflects a rich diversity of people, contexts, and ministry expressions. Our new vision seeks to unify our mission and expand our collective impact by strengthening how we resource mid councils, congregations, and missional partners. By clarifying our shared purpose, this vision will help us respond more effectively to current realities, foster innovation, and nurture faithful and sustainable leadership for the future.

4. Who is involved in shaping the vision?

This process includes the Discernment Team, Synod commissioners, presbytery leaders, ministry networks, congregations, young leaders, historically marginalized voices, and additional conversation partners such as staff (including the Synod Executive, and a consultant), the leadership team, and working group conveners.

5. How will feedback be incorporated?

To ensure the vision is tested and refined, feedback will be gathered through:

Sharing process and vision updates through newsletters and electronic communication.

Broadening the communication network to include staff, the leadership team, working group conveners, presbytery leaders, and the larger Synod community.

Town hall meetings which will serve as the first opportunity for receiving broad input.

6. What will the vision statement include?

The vision statement will articulate:

Our purpose as a Synod in today’s world & Church

Key priorities (discipleship, spiritual formation, justice, innovation, leadership development, mission transformation, effective Governance and Resourcing)

Commitments to equity, sustainability, and unity in Christ

In order that we live into a reality of being Spirit Led, we offer Radical Welcome, and we live out a Transformative Faith. These goals are based upon our core values:

Spirit-Led Innovation – We embrace the movement of the Holy Spirit to inspire creative and courageous approaches to ministry, leadership, and social transformation.

Radical Welcome & Inclusion – We cultivate a community where all voices are honored, differences are celebrated, and all people find belonging in the work of God’s kin-dom.

Justice-Driven Collaboration – We commit to working together across boundaries to address systemic injustices and promote equity, liberation, and flourishing for all.

Adaptive Leadership & Growth – We invest in developing leaders and structures that are responsive, flexible, and equipped to navigate the evolving needs of our communities and faith traditions.

7. How long will this process take?

Building on the Discernment Team’s work (which began in 2022), the visioning process will culminate with the Phase III Final Report in November 2025 at a special Assembly meeting. While the visioning process culminates in November 2025, the living into the vision continues into the future as we implement the vision and assess its impact.

8. How will the new vision be implemented?

Once approved, the new vision will be implemented through:

Governance changes to the Standing Rules and Bylaws to reflect the new direction.

Evaluation and intentional course corrections as the vision is implemented among presbyteries and congregations.

Regular town halls and feedback sessions to assess effectiveness and make adjustments.