The EKD (Protestant Church in Germany) delegates found their participation in the 35th General Synod of the United Church of Christ (UCC) in Kansas City to be both empowering and forward-looking. From July 11 to 15, 2025, UCC members from across the United States and Puerto Rico gathered to discuss the future of the Church and their shared mission. As the highest governing body of the UCC, the General Synod brings together both laypeople and clergy.

This year, participants included Church Councilor Ute Hedrich from the EKD Church Office, Superintendent Dr. Silke Radosh-Hinder, and Transatlantic Partnership Coordinator Christoph Schmid from the Berlin Stadtmitte Church District (KKBS). KKBS has maintained a longstanding partnership with the UCC’s New York Conference.

“I was especially moved by the depth and willingness of all participants to truly be a faithful church,” said Superintendent Silke Radosh-Hinder. “Our participation helped strengthen and affirm our relationships. Despite all our differences, we feel deeply connected.”

A particularly meaningful outcome for the EKD and KKBS delegation was the UCC Synod’s unanimous decision in favor of entering into full communion with the Protestant Church in Germany (EKD). “This step deepens the longstanding transatlantic relationship and reinforces our mutual recognition,” said Christoph Schmid.

The gathering was enriched by inspiring worship services, sermons, and guest lectures, including those by Rev. Dr. Karen Georgia Thompson, General Minister and President of the UCC, and Rev. Jennifer Butler, founder and CEO of Faith in Democracy.

According to the German participants, the 35th General Synod of the UCC in Kansas City significantly strengthened ecumenical ties with churches like the EKD and laid a foundation for future collaboration.

The next General Synod of the United Church of Christ will take place from July 21 to 28, 2028, in Cleveland, Ohio.