Rev. Verónica Alvarez
Congregational Membership: Faith/La Fe Lutheran Church, Phoenix AZ
Life Experiences in relation to synod council: With over 30 years of experience as an accountant, coupled with serving as secretary and treasurer in past congregations, I bring a wealth of expertise and insight to the role of council member. My extensive accounting background has honed my financial management skills, enabling me to analyze budgets, manage resources effectively, and ensure fiscal responsibility within the council's operations.
Having actively participated in church councils in the past, I am familiar with their operations and dynamics. Moreover, my dual perspective as a pastor uniquely positions me to comprehend both the administrative and pastoral dimensions of council decisions, fostering a comprehensive and balanced approach to leadership.
My experience as an accountant, lay leader, secretary, treasurer, and pastor has equipped me with the skills, insights, and empathy necessary to serve effectively as a council member. I am committed to promoting accountability, fostering unity, and advancing the mission of our church through collaborative and informed decision-making. It will be my honor to serve as member at large in our synod council.
Life Experiences in relation to churchwide assembly: Serving in a leadership position as a pastor has provided me with valuable experience in understanding the needs of the church community and making decisions that align with its mission and values.
As a person of color, I have often navigated diverse cultural and social environments. This experience has deepened my understanding of the importance of diversity and inclusion within our church community.
As a voting member, I am committed to advocating for policies that embrace and celebrate our differences, ensuring that every voice is not just heard but truly valued. Having faced discrimination and marginalization based on my race or ethnicity, I carry a profound empathy and compassion for those undergoing similar struggles. This empathy informs my decision-making process, compelling me to prioritize issues of social justice and equity and working to dismantle any systemic barriers that may exist within our denomination.
By bringing these diverse experiences and skills I can contribute meaningfully to the collective discernment and decision-making process at the ELCA churchwide assembly, ultimately working towards the common good of the church and its mission in the world.