A Message of thanks and encouragement from Bishop-Elect Kevin Shock

January 24, 2026

Week of Prayer for Christian Unity

Dear Friends:

Grace and peace to you in the name of +Jesus, the ever-growing light of the world! Amen.

First, a word of thanks. I am full of gratitude from your well-wishes, words of prayer and encouragement, and your regular mission support and special financial offerings during, and in support of, this time of transition. The Spirit has moved us toward a greater sense of mission and cooperative ministry during this interim period, and together we can continue on this road for years to come. Please plan on being present at our shared celebration of my installation as Bishop on February 7, 2026 at 2:00 pm at Mt. Calvary Lutheran in Johnstown. If you haven’t already, RSVP as soon as possible to the email address above. If you are unable to be physically present that day, I ask for your prayers for all of us in the Allegheny Synod and invite you to watch the service on Mt. Calvary’s Facebook page.

Second, a word about Synod staff. On January 17 the Allegheny Synod Council approved a staff structure of four quarter-time Assistants to fulfill the duties of the Office of the Bishop alongside me. This decision is the culmination of many discussions among Council, Deans, and other leaders. Some advantages to this structure include keeping gifted clergy at their current ministry sites, clearly delineating and delegating specific responsibilities, and incurring no cost above our proposed Synodical budget while bringing more gifts to the Office. Detailed information about the roles and the people filling them will come in the first couple weeks of February.

Finally, a word of encouragement. As I have gotten to know many of you these last four years as Assistant, I have seen the value in gathering together. Connections are made to God and one another when we gather. Let us follow the advice of the author of Hebrews (10:24-25) in meeting together to encourage one another and to provoke one another to love and good deeds. Find reasons to meet, invite one another, and gather. Be sure to invite me! You can contact Michelle at the information above to get on my calendar. I look forward to getting to know you all better.

In the peace of Christ,

The Rev. Kevin Shock

Bishop-Elect, Allegheny Synod