National Convention Highlights

The 2025 ELCIC National Convention took place at the University of Manitoba, in Winnipeg, MB, July 10-13. Delegates, special guests, visitors and volunteers gathered over four days for worship, business sessions, bidding a proper farewell to our outgoing National Bishop, and fellowship. The following are a few of the highlights from the convention. For full election and motion results, photos, and news stories, you are invited to visit: elcic.ca/national-convention. If you'd like to watch the convention, or share aspects of convention with your congregation, the livestream has been archived on the ELCIC YouTube channel.

Closing Worship of the 2025 ELCIC National Convention
The Closing Worship Service was highlighted with the procession of ecumenical guests and synod bishops. National Bishop Susan Johnson and Deacon Sherry Coman presided over the Closing Worship along with Presiding Bishop Elizabeth Eaton, who delivered the sermon based on the parable of the Good Samaritan. Read more here.

ELCIC Honours Outgoing National Bishop Susan Johnson
On Saturday night, delegates, visitors and special guests attending the 2025 ELCIC National Convention celebrated and honoured the legacy of outgoing National Bishop Susan Johnson in “a night of thanksgiving, storytelling and celebration.” Read more here.

Ben Johnston-Urey Named ELCIC Leadership Award Recipient
On Thursday evening, the ELCIC Leadership Award was presented to Ben Johnston-Urey of the Synod of Alberta and the Territories. Introduced in 2017 as a part of the ELCIC’s commemoration of the 500th anniversary of the Reformation, the award is given to an individual – rostered or lay – who demonstrates leadership and is committed to advancing the mission and ministry of the ELCIC. Read more here.

Rev. Dr. Larry Kochendorfer Elected as Next National Bishop
Delegates at the 2025 ELCIC National Convention have elected Rev. Dr. Larry Kochendorfer to serve as its fifth National Bishop. Kochendorfer becomes the fifth National Bishop in the ELCIC. Read more here.

View the Elections, Daily Highlights and More!
Attendees to the 2025 ELCIC National Convention witnessed inspiring presentations from our ecumenical guests and partners to key elections and motions. Each convention day brought moments that will shape our shared journey forward. If you missed anything or just want to relive the highlights which include stories, videos, and more, please click here.