Operation IDEA is a grassroots effort of the Nebraska Synod of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America.  It was created for the purpose of raising leaders for Christ’s Church.

The letters in IDEA stand for Invite, Discern, Excite and Act.

You can get a more complete history of the program here, but, in a nutshell, Operation IDEA began in 2002 as a way to address the very real clergy shortage that existed in the the Nebraska Synod at the time.

Since 2002, more than 260 people ranging in age from middle school to college students have taken part in Operation IDEA Bishop’s Initiative retreats.  At these retreats, participants reflect on how God is calling them to serve, and church leaders share their stories of being called to become pastors, associates in ministry, deaconesses, diaconal ministers and parish ministry associates.

Beyond those who have attended an Operation IDEA Bishop’s Initiative retreat, others have taken part in a variety of events that focus on God’s call in their lives.  These events include the Lifeshine and the Nebraska Synod Candidacy retreats as well as programs called HeadFirst Hat Company, 24/7 Challenge, Operation Foundation and more.