Report of the First Ever Faithful Innovation Summit

July 24-26, Luther Seminary hosted the first ever Faithful Innovation Summit in downtown Minneapolis at University of St. Thomas. Nearly 200 faith leaders from across the country gathered to explore how to address the challenge of forming Christian identity and practice in the 21st century.

Congregations and leaders shared the work they’re doing to meet contemporary needs at the Faithful Innovation Showcase

[The Summit provided] practical skills and insights for being church in our time, connections with other like-minded key leaders, and an invitation to community beginning to think and work in these ways.
FIS participant

Luther Seminary faculty and staff (pictured here: Michael Binder and Dwight Zscheile) presented on the decline of the church in the 21st century and how God might be calling us to respond.

I enjoyed getting the chance to hear from a diverse panel of speakers about how they are navigating the playful creativity in ministry.
FIS participant

During a contemplative exercise, participants were invited to write down what seems to get in the way of doing the core work of Christian formation and discipleship.

I loved…the permission not to have to do it all, lead it all and come up with it all. What a relief!
FIS participant

Luther students, staff, and alumni led worship
Luther students staff, and alumni led worship

Having the time and space to exchange ideas and generate new thoughts–that was inspirational.
FIS participant

Innovation Leadership Team