Bishop Transition FAQs

Following the election of Bishop-Elect Jennifer Dee on June 6^th, we as the Northeastern Pennsylvania Synod entered into a time of transition. Until Bishop-Elect Dee takes office on September 1^st, the Rev. Christopher deForest continues to serve as bishop. This Frequently Asked Questions page is meant to help answer common questions. If you have additional questions, requests, or comments about the transition itself or about synod operations during the transition, just send an email to the special address set up to support congregations, their members and leaders during this time.

Synod Operations:

What changes, if any, should congregations expect during the transition?

Will regular synod ministries and programs continue as usual?

Who should congregations contact if they have questions during the transition?

How can I contact Bishop-Elect Jennifer Dee?

Bishop-Elect Jennifer Dee doesn’t officially begin serving as bishop until September 1. Before then, synod-related questions, requests, and information should be directed to Bishop deForest or your Associate rather than to Bishop-Elect Dee directly. This allows time and space for her to finish up well in her role as pastor at Trinity in Robesonia, while ensuring that inquiries are handled promptly. If you would like to send her a card or note, mail to Bishop-Elect Dee at the Lutheran Center address below.

Are there any staffing or leadership adjustments taking place?

Installation & Acknowledgement Details:

What can people expect from the installation service?

Congregations, rostered ministers, ecumenical partners, and guests from across the church will gather for this special occasion of worship and celebration. Presiding Bishop Yehiel Curry will participate in the service.

Additional details, including the schedule and location information, will be announced as they become available. Visit godslove.org/bishop-installation for the latest updates.

Will the service be livestreamed?

Will there be an opportunity to celebrate Bishop Christopher deForest's ministry?

Additional Questions:

What does a bishop do?

A synod bishop is the pastor and chief spiritual leader for the synod, called to preach, teach, and administer the sacraments while providing pastoral care and guidance to congregations and rostered ministers. The bishop oversees ordinations, attests and installs calls, leads the synod’s mission, and ensures that preaching, teaching, and sacramental life are faithful to the gospel and the ELCA’s Confession of Faith. In this ministry of oversight and service, the bishop works to strengthen the unity of the church, foster justice and compassion in the world, and remind God’s people that Christ’s grace holds us together in love.

Why is there a period between election and start date?

In ELCA practice, the time between a bishop’s election and their start date is meant to be a prayerful transition, allowing for pastoral closure for the outgoing bishop and careful preparation for the new bishop’s ministry. This period also gives space for practical matters—like moving, orientation with the churchwide organization, and planning the installation—so the new bishop can begin well and serve the synod faithfully. The specific duration of the transition is described in our NEPA Synod Constitution, S8.52. “The terms of the officers shall begin on the first day of the third month following election…”

How can my congregation support the synod office?

The most meaningful ways to support the synod office during this transition are through prayer, encouragement, and continued participation in our shared ministry. Please keep Bishop-Elect Jennifer Dee, Bishop Christopher deForest, synod staff, synod council and congregations across the NEPA Synod in your prayers. Continue sharing your ministry stories, participating in synod events and ministries, and communicating with the synod office so we can walk through this transition together.

Contact Information

Questions and requests about the Bishop Transition or Installation

Click Here

Lutheran Center

2354 Grove Road, Allentown PA 18109-3044

Hours: 9:00am – 4:00pm (Monday-Friday)

610-266-5101

Email Us

Farewell & Godspeed

Join us as we give thanks for Bishop deForest's faithful leadership and ministry with the Northeastern Pennsylvania Synod and offer our prayers and blessings as he begins his next chapter.

Bishop Installation of Pr. Jennifer Dee

Mark your calendar for October 31 as the NEPS celebrates the bishop installation of Pastor Jennifer Dee. Presiding Bishop Yehiel Curry will be in attendance. Details will be posted as they are confirmed.

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