Danielle White - General Synod 35 Reflection

Mahalo Nui Loa HCUCC ʻOhana

I would like to share how grateful I am to the associations for the individuals they nominated to serve as a delegate of the Hawaiʻi Conference at General Synod 35. The time we spent together in Kansas City MO, was unforgettable and showed just what HCUCC ʻOhana is all about. The delegation was made up of the most spirit filled, good humored, rock solid, helpfully humble and well-spoken group of believers. Thanks be to God for each one of them and mahalo again to our churches, associations and conference for your thoughtful and prayerful selection of delegates.

The work done at General Synod was split into 9 plenary sessions with the average length of 4 hours. Sessions were held in the large event space of the Convention Hall and there was a lot to pay attention to. Speakers would stand at the podiums on the elevated stage, being recorded and broadest live in house and on-online. The stage was backed by a humongous screen, with two huge screens to the left and right. A closed caption system as well as ASL interpreter were available and utilized these large screens that flanked the stage. Using the same screens, pre-recorded content was shown as a method to help share information about various partners and ministry work. Once the floor was open for debate on the voting items, the pro and con microphone were keenly watched by all. Amongst all these speakers and production elements, it was our task to discern and hear the spirit of God speaking to us as we move forward with the work of the United Church of Christ.