With Gratitude: Honoring VP Barbara Carl and Outgoing Council Leaders

Before we turn a page, we pause to say thank you. Our synod is blessed by leaders who give their time, prayer, and wisdom to build up the church. This season we recognize Hannah Manazares, who concludes her service as Young Adult Representative after faithfully serving since 2019. The Synod Council will fill this role in the fall.

We also give thanks for Taylor Welch, re-elected after her 2021–2024 at-large term and continuing to serve on the Consultation Committee, and for two conference representatives completing significant service: Mr. Roger Bailey(Colorado River, 2019–2025; Executive Committee; Nominating; Congregational Vitality) and Ms. Janis Richert (Kino, 2019–2025; Executive Committee; Nominating; Stewardship), whose careful eye has improved our communications again and again.

Finally, we offer special gratitude for Ms. Barbara Carl. Barbara began synod leadership in 2016 as the Fiesta Conference representative, was elected Vice President in 2021, and served on the Executive Committee for many years, including earlier work with the Nominating Committee. Through seasons of disruption and renewal, she brought calm clarity, strategic thinking, and a deep love for the whole church. Barbara, we are grateful for the steady, wise, and faithful leadership you’ve shared.

“Encourage one another and build up each other” (1 Thess. 5:11). Today we do just that. Thank you, friends, for serving Christ by serving this synod.