Sierra Pacific Synod, ELCA

The Sierra Pacific Synod is one of the 65 synods of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America (ELCA), covering central and northern California, as well as northern Nevada. It was established in 1988 and is headquartered in Oakland, California.

Overview

The synod encompasses nearly 180 congregations across its territory and is known for its commitment to faith, service, and justice. It supports ELCA congregations throughout its region and is structured into nine conferences, each headed by a dean. These conferences cover various geographic areas within the synod's territory, including:

• Redwood Mountain: Northernmost part of the synod
• Bridges: North and northeastern parts of the San Francisco Bay area
• Capitol Valley: Congregations around Sacramento
• Sierra Nevada Foothill: Congregations in the Sierra Nevada mountains and Nevada
• San Francisco Peninsula: Congregations from San Francisco to Mountain View
• El Camino Real: Congregations from Sunnyvale south along the coast
• Mt. Diablo: South and interior parts of the east side of the San Francisco Bay area
• Sierra Central Valley: California Central Valley south of Sacramento but north of Fresno
• Central San Joaquin Valley: Fresno area

Leadership

As of 2023, the synod is led by Bishop Jeff R. Johnson, who was elected as the first openly gay bishop of the Sierra Pacific Synod on September 17, 2023. Prior to Johnson, Bishop Megan Rohrer served from 2021 until their resignation on June 6, 2022. Rohrer was the first openly transgender bishop in the ELCA.

International Partnerships

The Sierra Pacific Synod has companion relationships with several non-US Lutheran churches, including the Taiwan Lutheran Church, the Lutheran Church of Rwanda, and the Salvadoran Lutheran Church.

Notable Events and Internal Developments

The synod has a history of advocating for social justice and inclusivity, with significant events including the ordination of gay and lesbian pastors, which led to the expulsion but later reintegration of certain churches in the 1990s. In more recent times, the synod's leadership has faced challenges and changes, notably including the tenure and resignation of Bishop Megan Rohrer.

Activities and Organizations

The synod includes organizations such as the Sierra Pacific Synod Women of the ELCA, which operates across its territory, focusing on service, study, advocacy, fellowship, and promoting faith in action. The synod is also involved in various community and social initiatives.

EIN and Tax Status

The Sierra Pacific Synod operates with an EIN of 363514263 as a nonprofit organization within the U.S. framework.