When young people are connected to one another and to their faith, they develop a deeper sense of self, compassion, and justice. As pastors and caring adults in the Minneapolis Area Synod (MAS), you are invited to join us in helping young people thrive through the joy of making music together. 

Musicians and youth workers Alyssa Schwitzer and Kent Goodroad (LK – Arts Academy, Music is Wellness, and Our Saviour’s Lutheran Church) are partnering with the Synod and its congregations for its second season of the Synod Youth Choir. This “pop-up” choir is designed to support and complement the amazing faith formation already happening within our congregations. 

How it Works:

Youth from participating congregations will gather once a month from January through April 2026 for rehearsals. 

  • Rehearsal Schedule: 10:00 a.m. on the 4th Saturday of each month (January–April: 1/24, 2/28, 3/28, 4/25).
  • Locations: Rehearsals will rotate among four congregations within the Synod (locations announced soon).
  • Purpose: Each gathering will be a time to learn songs, connect with other young people from Lutheran congregations, and prepare to sing together at the Synod Assembly. 
  • Who is invited: All young people ages 5–18, regardless of musical experience, are welcome! Come make music, make friends, and grow in faith together. 

The Synod Youth Choir will perform at:

  • The Minneapolis Area Synod Assembly Saturday Worship – 9:00 a.m. at Lord of Life Lutheran Church (14501 Nowthen Blvd NW, Ramsey, MN 55303)  – May 2, 2026
  • End-of-Year Concert – May 17, 2026 

Partner

We are asking individuals and congregations to invest in young people through supporting the MAS Youth Choir. This can take shape in lots of ways: hospitality, encouraging young people to lead and share their gifts, as well as financial support. We have a fundraising goal of $20,000. If you would like to partner financially, you can do so online below or mail a check to the Synod office (122 W Franklin Ave, #600, Minneapolis, MN 55404).

Meet the Team

Alyssa Schwitzer

Alyssa is a Minneapolis-based vocalist, recording artist, composer, worship leader, educator, and voice teacher/coach working with individuals, churches, schools, and organizations locally and nationally. As a vocalist, she has taken up residencies in cities such as New York City and Boston; having the opportunity to perform for organizations such as Minnesota Public Radio, American Composers Forum, Thrivent Financial, Ravinia Festival, ELCA Extravaganza, ELCA MYLE, and the ELCA Youth Gathering, among others. Alyssa has a passion for empowering youth through music. She is the co-founder of both LK-Arts Academy and Music Is Wellness — programs designed to provide accessible music education aimed at building skills in music and social-emotional wellness. Alyssa serves as Director of Worship and Music at Our Saviour’s Lutheran Church in South Minneapolis and maintains an active performing and teaching career in the Twin Cities. 

Kent Goodroad

Kent is a performer, composer, and music educator both locally (Minneapolis) and nationally. He has performed and composed for Minnesota Public Radio (MPR), Minnesota Composer’s Forum, MNKINO Film Festival, ELCA Extravaganza, ELCA MYLE, and the ELCA Youth Gathering. He is the co-founder of both LK-Arts Academy and Music Is Wellness — programs designed to provide accessible music education aimed at building skills in music and social-emotional wellness. Kent serves as Director of Worship and Music at Our Saviour’s Lutheran Church in South Minneapolis and maintains an active performing and teaching career in the Twin Cities.