Our theme is grounded in Paul’s prayer in Ephesians 3:14–21, a prayer spoken on bended knee before “the Father, from whom every family in heaven and on earth takes its name.” Paul dares to ask for something audacious: that we would be strengthened in our inner being, rooted and grounded in love, so that we might comprehend “the breadth and length and height and depth” of Christ’s love—and be filled with all the fullness of God. Then comes the word that stretches our imagination to its limits: “Now to him who by the power at work within us is able to accomplish abundantly far more than all we can ask or imagine…”

How big is our God? How big can we IMAGINE?

Our Synod Assembly logo gives us a living metaphor. A tree stretches its limbs outward in every direction—toward light, toward space, toward diversity, toward possibility. Its roots run deep, grounded in love, held within the shape of a heart. This is who we are called to be: a people deeply rooted in Christ’s love, and boldly reaching outward for the sake of the world God so loves. Growth does not happen without grounding. Reaching does not happen without roots. Imagination, too, is nurtured by love.

As a synod, we are inviting one another to go and grow together. To Love like Jesus, embodying grace, mercy, and welcome. To Heal like Jesus, tending to wounds—seen and unseen—in our communities and in ourselves. To Engage like Jesus, showing up with courage, humility, and hope. This is the work of Growing Young, Gaining Strength, and Going Beyond Death to Life. It is not about just preserving what was, but trusting the Spirit who makes all things new.

IMAGINE is not wishful thinking. It is faithful daring. It is trusting that the same God who has sustained us will continue to do more—far more—than we can ask or imagine. As we gather June 4-6, may we pray Paul’s prayer with confidence, listen for the Spirit’s leading with openness, and step forward together, rooted in love and reaching toward God’s abundant future.