The 27th Annual Convention of the Greater Milwaukee Synod was held on Saturday, October 11, 2014 at Mt. Hope Lutheran church in West Allis. Workshops included "Face to Face with Bishop Jeff," where participants had the opportunity to be brought up-to-date with what is going on with the Greater Milwaukee Synod. "Laugh Your Way to Grace," led by CWO Representative Jody Smiley, helped participants understand that laughter can and should be part of our faith journey. "Do We Have to Talk About It Again?" was led by retired Pastor Susan Ruehle and Pastor Viviane Thomas-Breitfeld, to answer questions about racism.

Keynote speaker Tasha Schuh shared her poignant story of being injured as a 16 year old drama student, and her journey from loss and grief to self-discovery and achievement.

Two new board members were elected. We welcomed Karen Hoffman as the new SWO Secretary, and Debra Burns as the 2015 Convention Intern. At the present time the SWO board was short two members, and hoped to appoint someone to fill those positions in the very near future. Carole Ropel was appointed to be the Congregational Liaison for a one-year term. Thank you to outgoing board members for a job well done - Secretary Marilyn Smithyman and 2014 Convention Chair, Ginny Oistad.