The Department of Rosters, Statistics, and Research Services, assigned to the Office of the Secretary in the 2013–2016 triennium, provides the core “organ of recollection and administration” for roster, leadership, contact, and statistical information related to congregations, individual members, schools, districts, and other agencies and affiliated entities of the Synod. Some of this informa-
Research Services provides a full range of research and analysis services for the Synod and its agencies. Key reports delivered in the past four years include intensive studies of the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on congregations, schools, and workers; analysis of two decades of church planting by the Synod; support for the Set Apart to Serve: LCMS Church Worker Recruitment initiative; and numerous other studies guiding the implementation of the Synod’s ministry efforts. Close integration of Research Services with Rosters and Statistics and the Office of the Secretary, as well as close interaction with ministry units at the International Center, with the Council of Presidents, and with the Synod’s partner agencies (Concordia Plan Services, Lutheran Church Extension Fund, etc.) has proven fruitful in exploration of new approaches and fields of study with real potential to impact the present and future ministry of the Synod and its constituents. The same connections will continue to grow in importance as core technologies and access to anal yz able data continue to be enhanced.