Digital fellowship at Synod: Exclusive interview with @GeneralSynic
When a mass of UCCers converge on Kansas City for General Synod later this week, they will also make waves in social media and digital spaces.
UCC Social Media Specialist Brooke Canada envisions social media as a connective space where fellowship can extend for both those at Synod and those interested in what’s happening from a distance. The National Setting’s Marketing and Communications team plans to keep people connected with regular highlights, videos, and coverage posted on UCC Facebook, Instagram, Bluesky, and in daily e-deliveries of UCC News. Livestreamed segments will additionally stream on Facebook and Bluesky, Canada said.
She invites people to join in digitally and share experiences of the denomination’s central gathering with the official hashtag #UCCSynod and by tagging @UnitedChurchOfChrist.
Digital highlight: General Synic interview
General Synic is one social media presence which, at more than a few past Synods, has become synonymous with offering quick, humorous online commentary. The anonymous account – who consistently maintains that they are three racoons in a trench coat – has offered UCC News the following exclusive interview for people to enjoy as they gear up for the approaching gathering July 11-15.

The question on everyone’s mind: will you be among those attending the upcoming General Synod in Kansas City, and what can the general (synod) public expect from you there?
Yes, and you can expect the general synicism from us (not to be confused with cynicism; we’re actually pretty hopeful, even with *waves six small dexterous hands at the general vibes of the world*).
Give us some history. How many General Synods have you been to and what has been a highlight about going to them?
I do not say to you, we have been to Synod up to seven times, but up to seventy times seven times.
When Synod was established in Cleveland, we were there; when delegates drew a circle on the face of Robert’s Rules, when the collegium made firm the registration desk, and established the exhibit hall, when they assigned to the plenary its limit, so that discussion might not transgress that command, when they marked out the foundations of the speak-out, then we were beside Synod, like a master worker, and were daily their mild amusement, rejoicing before them always.
Did you always know you wanted to be a General Synic, and what led you on this path?
Becoming a general synic is not something that is chosen; it is a responsibility that is thrust upon one. However, the Westminster Shorter Catechism said it best: the chief aim of man (or in our case, three raccoons in a trench coat) is to glorify God and enjoy him (sic) forever. There are many ways to glorify God, and we sure hope that live-tweeting a denominational gathering is among them. But we are enjoying ourselves!
Which is more exciting, New Years Eve or General Synod 35?
General Synod. Because while New Year’s Eve is always less fun than one would hope, Synod is always much more fun than it has any business being.
How likely are you to reveal your true identity in Kansas City?
Despite our natural bandit mask markings, we have always been clear about our identities. But we always reserve the right to upgrade our trench coat. We’ve recently had our eyes on a certain discontinued beltless model called “The Executive.”
What is it that you believe humor offers in a religious context? Why does it matter?
Martin Luther said, “you have as much laughter as you have faith.”
What’s the best way for people to read and engage with your Synod coverage and comments?
Find us on Bluesky @GeneralSynic, tag us in your Bluesky posts, and leave any mostly-empty pizza boxes near the vents of the convention hall when you head to your hotel for the evening.
Content on ucc.org is copyrighted by the National Setting of the United Church of Christ and may be only shared according to the guidelines outlined here.
Related News
Weaponizing Food
On November 21, 2024, the International Criminal Court (ICC) issued arrest warrants for...
Read MoreTurf, truth, and the Spirit: A radical rewilding of faith at closing worship at Synod
The closing worship service of General Synod 35 was a vibrant celebration of spirit, art, and...
Read MoreCleveland Rocks! General Synod 36 will return to ‘The Land’ in 2028
The 30th General Synod of the United Church of Christ was a memorable one for many. Five years...
Read More