Updates from the Regional Synod of Albany

Albany Synod held its annual assembly on May 3 and 4 (Read the minutes). Nearly 75 delegates and guests attended a celebration of the synod’s ministries and staff on Sunday evening at the Helderberg Reformed Church. The worship time included a litany of Remembrance, Communion and Hope for the Regional Synod of Albany, written by Rev. Chris VandeBunte, music selections provided by the Lynnwood Reformed Church Music Team, and storytelling by Rev. Kent Busman. Noreen Fargione shared greetings from former and current staff. (Want to learn more about the history of Albany Synod, check out this summary of Albany Synod minutes since 1933 prepared by Bob Hoffman).

On Monday, May 4, the delegates gathered at the Lynnwood Reformed Church for the business meeting of the assembly. Reports were shared by synod staff on the various ministries of the synod, as well as partners of the synod (Camp Fowler, New York State Council of Churches, and the General Synod Council). Worship was led by Rev. Immanuel Van Tonder, Vice President with accompaniment from the Lynnwood Reformed Church Music Team. (Hear the vice president's sermon.)

Some of the major decisions made by the synod included:

• Extended the terms of the current officers, board and committee members through the end of the year.

• Approved the Financial Review document prepared by Mr. Phil Beckett, CPA.

• Approved an assessment schedule for 2027 to help the middle assemblies begin with a financial base and to assist congregations in their 2027 budget planning process.

• Approved the distribution plan for Albany Synod assets (financial and physical).

• Heard, discussed and approved the process necessary to blend the requirements of NYS Not for Profit and Corporate Laws with those of the Book of Church Order to bring together our existing classes and form two middle assemblies.

• Heard summary statements from both middle assembly transition teams on their progress toward developing their ministries and the structure to support it.

• Approved a number of resolutions of thanks and recognition of the synod’s volunteers, staff, officers and ministries.

• Received an inspiring report from President, Rev. Dirk Gieser. (Hear the president's report)

  
  

Special thanks go to the membership and staff of the Lynnwood Reformed Church for their fine hospitality.