The Pacific Northwest Washington Synod met May 18 and 19 at the event center here in Everett.  The assembly members from Trinity are Norma and Jerry Bingham, Clara Griffin, retired Associate in Ministry, and Pastor Jocelyn Carson.  On Sunday, Jerry highlighted four important things he learned from the Assembly.  1) There are Lutheran Christians in European Russia and they need our help.  A pastor can be supported for as little as $200 per month. 2) We can be part of the movement towards the eradication of malaria—now a child in Africa dies from malaria every minute, but just two years ago a child died from malaria every 30 seconds. One malaria net to protect a child costs just $10. 3) Dr. Mark Allan Powell led us in great Bible Studies, sharing with us perspectives from a global perspective which enhance our understanding of familiar Bible stories. 4) Our Synod staff members are currently being paid 11% less than they were in 2009. They work with a balanced budget.  Thank you for your gifts which support of the mission of the larger church!