2026 Trip to visit companion synod in Tanzania (UKD)
April 2025
Greeting in Christ! I am excited that you are a potential traveling ambassador to be with our companions in Tanzania, the Ulanga Kilombero Diocese (UKD). The goal of our trip to the UKD in June 2026 is to strengthen our relationship as we spend more time together. Thank you for your interest.
Spending time in the UKD is a life-changing experience. It is heart-warming, enlightening, and fulfilling. The journey is not easy, but the joys received do outweigh the burdens! If you are willing to be a bit adventuresome, please consider participating. The Synod trip to the UKD is a chance to learn more about our companions. We then ask that you come home as an ambassador of our NWIM-UKD relationship, spreading the news about our companions.
Please read all the documents carefully. You will also find them here. The forms you need are:
An information sheet outlining the trip, the expectations and commitments for travelers, and the timeline.
A one-page flyer from the ELCA on Accompaniment to help you understand the foundation we use for our companionship. This is called Bega kwa Bega (shoulder to shoulder) in Swahili.
An application which will help you discern your participation
A rough calendar of the agenda for the trip
The trip leaders, Janet Boyer and Cory English, were in the UKD in July of 2024 and both are on the NWIM Companion Synod Team. They will be a competent and compassionate guides for your journey. I will be handling the trip details and making all travel arrangements, based on many years of planning trips to the UKD.
Cory, Janet, and I will do our best to create the best group possible with the limited number of participants we can accommodate – likely a maximum of 20 people for this trip. Be aware that the Global Mission Committee intends to plan synod trips to the UKD every two to three years, so there will be future opportunities. Be sure to complete and return your application form by November 1, 2025 if you want to be considered for the 2026 trip. Do not hesitate to contact me if you have any questions.
Finally, our brothers and sisters in the UKD are gracious people. You will not return home as the same person! The kingdom of God will be evident, and you will want to share that experience with others!
Blessings as you discern your involvement!
Deacon Heidi Cryer
Companion Synod Team Chair
509-539-0449
hacryer@gmail.com