God’s abundant gifts and our calling to share them generously will be the thematic focus of next year’s 22nd Regular Convention of General Synod to be held from 1 to 4 October 2027 at the Brisbane Convention and Exhibition Centre.
The theme, Open Arms, and its tagline, Receiving Abundantly – Sharing Generously, along with a logo, have been approved by the LCANZ General Church Board. The theme is based on 2 Corinthians 9:8 and echoes the final line of Robin Mann’s well-known worship song Reaching Out: ‘We’ve been given so much, people, let’s all share. Reaching out with open arms.’
LCANZ Bishop Paul Smith said the theme focuses on ‘the mission of God at work amongst us’.
‘We are sent into the world to give as we have been given to, with open arms to the neighbour and to the poor and needy,’ Bishop Paul said.
He said the theme also reflects the church’s shared purpose as it gathers for Convention.
‘We join in Convention as sisters and brothers in Christ with this common mission, to support each other and to encourage each other to reach out with open arms, to the glory of God.’
The General Synod logo was created by Elysia McEwen, graphic designer for The Lutheran. It features a figure with open arms representing the people of the church serving in Christ, supported by a cross symbolising the grace received through Christ. Flowing lines represent God’s abundance, life, growth and generous sharing, while drawing on the flames of the LCANZ logo to reflect the work of the Holy Spirit.
Secretary of the Church Dr Nigel Long has encouraged parishes to begin planning and budgeting for Convention, elect delegates early and arrange accommodation as soon as possible.
Key dates for Synod 2027
October 2026: Lay delegate allocations advised
31 March 2027: Delegate appointments and proposals due
26–29 September 2027: General Pastors Conference
1–4 October 2027: Convention of General Synod, Brisbane
