2026 C3 Conference: Abiding, Belonging, Creative, Collaborative, Congregations

Leaders from across the NE Iowa Synod gathered in Waverly on June 6 for worship, learning and fellowship. Trinity had 6 attendees – here are reflections from two of those members:

“The C3 conference started with worship. The opening litany began with Bishop Jones leading with ‘Spirit of the Living God, you breathe life into the church and call us into one body.’ The congregation of attendees had the response. ‘Gather us in, Holy Spirit, and make us one.’

Perhaps it was where I was sitting or the acoustics of the sanctuary, but to my ears this line was loud—really loud. It was recited with gusto. It was uttered with commitment. It was spoken in a community with other strangers who gave up a Saturday to learn… Most in the pews were essentially strangers to one another. Gathered by the Spirit to be made one. Just like the disciples. A diverse group coming together in the Spirit.

The sessions were an education in “Building Resilient Rural Communities” as they shrink in population. The focus was on creating a continued sense of belonging through building connections and bridging with other community members to increase the perception of the quality of life. That same concept applies to the church as we face shrinkage. Build quality of life and a sense of belonging by building connections/bridges with people while accepting the changes in our community. Gathered by the Spirit to be made one. Thanks for sending me.”
-Janet Christensen

“I was not surprised at the comments of how Iowa is changing. Aging demographics across Iowa (I believe 2nd oldest in the US). Population migration to the metro-areas which have larger job markets and other lifestyle opportunities. Now, retired parents sometimes follow their kids there too. Changes in farming practices (larger farms and fewer farming families) are reducing rural populations. Today’s busy life-style often puts Sunday morning church in second place with some families (sports, travel, shopping). Cost-creep is affecting church survival. Small churches are the first to feel this.

A tough set of challenges… But I felt Bishop Kevin’s approach is the right one. Offering a ‘hand’ and asking how the Synod can ‘help’ smaller congregations face and adapt to the reality of a changing Iowa – trying to open doors between congregations, share support services and find new ways of staying connected and maintaining congregations… All of this makes me all the more grateful to be at church like Trinity.”
-Craig Miller

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