We had a fruitful Synod Assembly this year in Northern Illinois.  We give God thanks for these blessings.  A budget was passed, almost unanimously, which included 55% for Churchwide ministries.  Carol Hendrix, bishop of our Partner Synod, Lower Susquehanna, taught, preached and encouraged us in mission.  Sherman Hicks, Executive Director of Multicultural Ministries was the ELCA representative.  Paul Hill was our keynote presenter.  His perspective about ministry with young people was very helpful.  Bishop Warren Freiheit, Central/Southern Illinois Synod, honored us by participating in our Ordination Service.  Mr. Bob Montgomery, Christus Victor Lutheran Church in Ocean Springs, Mississippi, encouraged us to continue to support relief efforts in the Gulf Coast through Lutheran Disaster Response.  We received two new mission congregations into the ELCA: New Creation Lutheran Church, Channahon and Followers of Christ Lutheran Church, Plainfield and ordained three pastors: Steven Andersen, Rob James, and Sarah Schaffner.  Resolutions about World Hunger, Campus Ministry, and Advocacy for Immigration Reform were adopted.  Soli Deo Gloria.