Rachel’s Reflections
Warm greetings from cold Louisville.
As the new U.S.-Facing Global Ecumenical Liaison (US-GEL) for the synods of Covenant, Lakes and Prairies, Lincoln Trails, and Living Waters, I am grateful for the opportunity to introduce (or re-introduce) myself and to share a few resources with you.
Let me begin with how I can be of support to you right now. I invite you to think of me as a first point of contact with the national offices. If you are unsure who to contact, or simply do not know where to begin, I encourage you to reach out. I may not always have an immediate answer, but I will gladly help connect you with the right person or office to meet your needs.
In the coming months, I will be reaching out to presbytery leaders to schedule a conversation at your convenience. I hope to learn more about your context, your ministries, and your needs, as well as how I may best pray for you. I also want to hear how you hope we US-GELs might serve you as we cultivate this new movement of Gospel connectional ministry. If you would like to have a conversation sooner, please Book time to meet with me
As my role continues to evolve, it will extend beyond being a point of contact and a partner in listening and prayer. I see my work as that of a connector and advocate, linking you with colleagues, resources, and conversations that address shared questions and challenges across our region. I also seek to stay attentive to how you, your ministries, and your communities are doing, and to carry your experiences and needs into conversations across our wider church.
So please feel free to write, call, or reach out for any reason. Together, we are not simply shaping a model; we are building a living, breathing movement of connection, collaboration, and care. In this movement your voice, your ministry, and your witness matter deeply.
