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The Synod of Lakes and Prairies
 More than 130 Presbyterians from two synods traveled to the Gulf Coast in January 2008 for perhaps the largest multi-presbytery effort since Hurricane Katrina in 2005.
After arriving, they split into two work groups at separate volunteer camps. Presbyterians from East Iowa and Minnesota Valleys presbyteries worked out of Luling, Louisiana. Presbyterians from North Central Iowa,
Des Moines, and John Knox (all from the Synod of Lakes and Prairies), and from Blackhawk, worked in Pearlington, Mississippi.
The purpose of the weeklong trip was to help with reconstruction, as well as an effort to build cross-boundary connections and relationships among Presbyterians in the upper Midwest. At a time when all units within the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) are looking at new ways to move into the future, these presbyteries found a way to work cooperatively, raising hope in a devastated area.
The Synod of Lakes and Prairies includes 908 churches with 154,623 members. The synod has covenant relationships with seven Presbyterian colleges — Buena Vista University, Carroll University, Coe College, Hastings College, Jamestown College, Macalester College, and University of Dubuque — and is home to University of Dubuque Theological Seminary and Hillcrest Family Services in Dubuque, Iowa.
Synod Staff
Rev. Philip C. Brown, synod executive
Elder Diana J. Barber, associate executive-leadership development
Jackie Palmer, business manager
Elder Elona Street-Stewart, associate for racial ethnic ministries and community empowerment
Elder Duane Sweep, associate for communications
Mary Taaffe, office manager
Elder J. Jay Wilkinson, stated clerk/treasurer
PC(USA) General Assembly Staff
Angela Duffy, FDN
Sherrolyn Duffy, GAC
Denise Dukes, GAC
God of grace, show us ways to work together and grow together as we strive together in common mission. Help us build Christian relationships and overcome barriers to cooperation. Show us the way to a new unity in spirit. We pray in the name of Jesus. Amen.
Ps. 5, 147:1–11 Ps. 27, 51
Jer. 8:4–7, 18–9:6
Rom. 5:1–11; John 8:12–20
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