This series contains correspondence concerning synodical matters to and from Bishop Herbert Chilstrom during his tenure from 1987 to 1995. Correspondents include Evangelical Lutheran Church in America (ELCA) synod bishops as well as lay members and pastors. Lists of the synod bishops who served from 1987 through 1995 are included at the beginning of most of the folders. Files are arranged by region. (Additional synod files can be found in ELCA 9/1/1/5, Herbert W. Chilstrom Synod Files.) Topics covered vary widely. Some topics include installations of bishops, procedures for disciplining pastors, financial support for retired pastors, letters of complaint, homosexuality (such as blessing of same-sex relationships and ordination of gay and lesbian pastors. This topic was particularly prominent in region 2A, Northern California), and appointments of synod bishops. The greatest amount of correspondence is from ELCA members writing to Bishop Chilstrom regarding some problem they had in their parish, asking for Chilstrom's help by supporting a pastor in trouble or helping the parishioner lodge a complaint against an unhearing synod bishop. Much of the correspondence from Bishop Chilstrom is in response to problems concerning synod bishops. Bishop Chilstrom's responses clearly state his inability to interfere with synod concerns. Some letters have photographs attached to them. In the Miscellaneous section, the Letters to Synod Bishops and Responses contain a letter from Bishop Chilstrom to all synod bishops regarding fiscal matters for the synods from 1989 to 1991. Included with the letters are charts showing total congregational giving, operating expenses, proportionate share and total benevolence for each ELCA synod. Mailings to Church Council members concern choosing Bishop Chilstrom's successor and functions of the Church Council. Mailings to Synod Bishops include pastoral letters, correspondence regarding installation and removal of synod bishops, and letters informing the synod bishops of ELCA actions and policies. Regional Coordinators correspondence includes mainly congratulations to those elected to the position of regional coordinator.
