April 2018 Archives

Call Report – April 30, 2018

2018/04/30/in Call Reports

Wisconsin Evangelical Lutheran Synod

Pastor, teacher, and staff minister call report

4/24/2018 – 4/30/2018

The call report details when pastors, teachers, and staff ministers change positions within WELS. The Conference of Presidents oversees and coordinates the calling process.

NO DECISION REPORTED

Pastors	Current call	New call	Date issued
Rev Jeffrey Grundmeier	Our Saviour’s LC Cedarville MI Immanuel LC Sault Sainte Marie MI	Zion LC Greenleaf WI Associate Pastor	3/19/2018
Rev Daniel Lindner	St John’s LC Minneapolis MN	Good Shepherd LC Omaha NE Pastor	4/5/2018
Rev Michael Otterstatter	Martin Luther College New Ulm MN	Trinity LC El Paso TX Pastor	4/5/2018
Rev Eric Roecker	Pilgrim LC Menomonee Falls WI	Conference of Presidents Director of Evangelism	4/6/2018
Rev Dennis Reichow	St John LC Glencoe MN	Zion LC Olivia MN Pastor	4/8/2018
Rev Greg Pufahl	Centennial LC Milwaukee WI	Calvary LC Sheboygan WI Pastor	4/8/2018
Rev Robert Balza	Retired	Mt Calvary LC Menasha WI Associate Pastor; Retirement Call	4/8/2018
Rev Peter Sulzle	St John LC Redwood Falls MN	Good Shepherd’s LC West Allis WI Associate Pastor	4/8/2018
Rev Kevin Wattles	Grace LC Falls Church VA	Bethlehem LC Menomonee Falls WI Associate Pastor	4/8/2018
Rev Christian Christenson	First LC La Crescent MN	Christ LC Cambridge MN Pastor	4/8/2018
Rev Jason Hacker	Grace LC Waukesha WI	St John LC Watertown WI Associate Pastor	4/8/2018
Rev Jud Krohn	Zion LC Oshkosh WI Grace LC Pickett WI	Christ LC Juneau AK Pastor	4/8/2018
Rev Ralph Rosenberg	Bethlehem LC Hortonville WI	Zion LC Rhinelander WI Associate Pastor	4/10/2018
Rev Paul Horn	Mighty Fortress LC Hiram GA	Trinity LC Grafton NE Grace LC Geneva NE Pastor	4/10/2018
Rev Snowden Sims	St Paul’s LC Columbus OH	Garden Homes LC Milwaukee WI Pastor	4/11/2018
Rev Matthew Hennig	Christ LC North Saint Paul MN & Hugo MN	Atonement LC Plano TX Pastor	4/11/2018
Rev Timothy Bourman	Sure Foundation LC Woodside NY	Martin Luther College New Ulm MN Professor; Theology & Foreign Language	4/12/2018
Rev Brian Hackmann	Peace LC Eagle River AK	Water of Life LC Las Vegas NV Pastor	4/12/2018
Rev Matthew Hennig	Christ LC North Saint Paul MN & Hugo MN	Grace LC Vail AZ & Benson AZ Associate Pastor	4/15/2018
Rev Daniel Naumann	Grace LC Prairie du Chien WI	Nebraska Evangelical Lutheran High School Waco NE Pastor	4/15/2018
Rev Bradley Snyder	Mt Olive LC Suamico WI	Resurrection LC Verona WI & Monroe WI Associate Pastor	4/15/2018
Prof Jeffrey Schone	Martin Luther College New Ulm MN	New Hope LC West Melbourne FL Pastor	4/15/2018
Rev James Enderle	East Asia	Immanuel LC South Lyon MI Pastor	4/15/2018
Prof Paul Koelpin	Martin Luther College New Ulm MN	St Paul LC Saginaw MI Associate Pastor	4/16/2018
Rev Stephen Wiesenauer	CRM	East Asia Pastor	4/18/2018
Rev Jonathan Fischer	Resurrection LC Chesapeake VA	Riverview LC Appleton WI Associate Pastor	4/18/2018
Rev Jonathan Fischer	Resurrection LC Chesapeake VA	Good Shepherd LC Sioux Falls SD Associate Pastor	4/18/2018
Rev Mark Gefaller	Immanuel LC Fort Worth TX	St Paul LC North Platte NE St Paul’s LC Broken Bow NE Pastor	4/18/2018
Rev James Strand	St Paul LC Bloomer WI	St Mark LC Bemidji MN Pastor	4/19/2018
Rev Scott Wolfram	Divine Word LC Plover WI	Grace LC Tecumseh MI Pastor	4/19/2018
Rev Philip Kiecker	Gethsemane LC Raleigh NC	St Mark LC De Pere WI Associate Pastor	4/22/2018
Rev Brett Ehlke	St Paul’s LC Stevensville MI	Trinity LC Kiel WI Pastor	4/22/2018
Rev Joel Russow	Faith LC Tallahassee FL	Grace LC Oshkosh WI Associate Pastor	4/22/2018
Rev Stephen Lehmann	Mt Olive LC Iron Mountain MI	St Paul LC Green Bay WI Associate Pastor	4/22/2018
Rev Zachary Gebert	Bethany LC – Parkway Campus Appleton WI	Our Shepherd LC Crown Point IN Pastor	4/22/2018
Rev Jeremy Schulz	Faith LC Tacoma WA	Good Shepherd LC The Woodlands TX Pastor	4/22/2018
Rev Joel Russow	Faith LC Tallahassee FL	Our Savior’s LC Port Orange FL Pastor	4/22/2018
Rev Jeremy Cares	Shepherd of the Plains LC Lubbock TX	King of Kings LC Maitland FL Pastor	4/22/2018
Rev Michael Turriff	Mt Calvary LC Waukesha WI	Beautiful Savior LC Bella Vista-Hiwasse AR Pastor; Part-Time Call	4/22/2018
Rev Jonathan Learman	St Peter LC Theresa WI	St Paul LC Stratford WI Grace LC Mosinee WI Pastor	4/23/2018
Rev Adam Mueller	Redeemer LC Tucson AZ	St John LC Peshtigo WI Pastor	4/23/2018
Rev Gregory Pope	Trinity LC Manitowoc WI	Peace LC Loves Park IL Pastor	4/23/2018
Rev Matthew Zimpelmann	Cross of Christ LC Boise ID	St Peter LC Weyauwega WI Associate Pastor	4/25/2018
Rev Shane Krause	Mt Olive LC Overland Park KS	St Paul’s LC Stevensville MI Associate Pastor	4/26/2018
Prof Andrew Naumann	Michigan Lutheran Seminary Saginaw MI	St Paul LC Onalaska WI Associate Pastor	4/29/2018
Rev Nickolas Haasch	Trinity LC Sturgis SD	Heritage LC Gilbert AZ Pastor	4/29/2018
Teachers	Current call	New call	Date issued
Ms Hannah Stellick	Divine Savior Lutheran Academy Doral FL	St Marcus LS Milwaukee WI Lead Teacher; Grade 4	3/5/2018
Mrs Naomi Porth	St Philip LS Milwaukee WI	Pilgrim LS Menomonee Falls WI Teacher; Grades 1-2, Half-Time Call	3/11/2018
Mrs Kristin Sternhagen		Rocky Mountain Lutheran High School Commerce City CO Teacher; Part-Time Call	3/11/2018
Mr David Leonard	Friedens LS Kenosha WI	Friedens LS Kenosha WI Principal; One-Year Call	3/18/2018
Mr David Zank	Friedens LS Kenosha WI	Friedens LS Kenosha WI Teacher; Vice Principal, One-Year Call	3/18/2018
Mrs Alyssa Warnke		Divine Savior Lutheran Academy Doral FL ECM Teacher	3/25/2018
Miss Kristine Krug	St Paul LS Beverly Hills FL	Zion LS Chesaning MI Teacher; Grades 2-4	3/25/2018
Mr Kaleb Buch	St Luke LS Oakfield WI	Wisconsin Lutheran High School Milwaukee WI Teacher & Coach	3/29/2018
Mr Joshua Kramer	Good Shepherd LS West Bend WI	Trinity LS Belle Plaine MN Teacher; Grades 5-6	4/4/2018
Mrs Joanna Amborn	St Lucas LS Milwaukee WI	Trinity LS Brillion WI Teacher; Grade 3-4	4/5/2018
Mr Ryan Stangl	Michigan Lutheran High School Saint Joseph MI	Luther High School Onalaska WI Teacher; Band	4/5/2018
Miss Rebecca Rixe	Crown of Life Christian Academy Fort Myers FL	Bethlehem LS-North Germantown WI ECM Director	4/8/2018
Miss Shawna Mehlberg	Divine Savior Lutheran Academy Doral FL	Shepherd of the Hills Lutheran Preschool Las Vegas NV ECM Director	4/8/2018
Ms Kris Eggers	David’s Star LS Jackson WI	Mt Calvary LS Waukesha WI Teacher; Grade 4	4/8/2018
Mr Justin Ohm	Crown of Life LS West Saint Paul MN	St Paul LS Howards Grove WI Teacher; Grades 5-6	4/8/2018
Mr Paul Frisque	St Jacobi LS Greenfield WI	Peace LS Sun Prairie WI Teacher; Grade 6	4/8/2018
Mr Scott Luepke		Resurrection LS Rochester MN Teacher; Grade 3, Provisional Call	4/8/2018
Miss Nicole Roper	Small Steps Christian Learning Center Port Orange FL	Zion Lutheran Preschool Valentine NE ECM Director	4/8/2018
Prof Jennifer Mehlberg	Martin Luther College New Ulm MN	Victory Preschool Jacksonville FL Director	4/8/2018
Mrs Kate Krieger		Siloah LS Milwaukee WI Teacher; Grade 6	4/8/2018
Mr Timothy Hochmuth	Good Shepherd’s LS West Allis WI	Zion LS Valentine NE Principal & Upper Grades	4/8/2018
Mrs Jessica Hochmuth		Zion LS Valentine NE Teacher; Lower Grades	4/8/2018
Mr Craig Breitkreutz	St John LS Baraboo WI	Faith LS Antioch IL Principal & Upper Grades; Departmentalized	4/8/2018
Mrs Jamie Learman		St John LS Lomira WI ECM Teacher; Part-Time, Provisional Call	4/8/2018
Mrs Gretel Kiecker	St John LS Lomira WI	St John LS Lomira WI Teacher; Grades 1-2, Provisional Call	4/8/2018
Mrs Johanna Manke	St John LS Lomira WI	St John LS Lomira WI Teacher; Administrative Release-Time & Music, Part-Time, Provisional Call	4/8/2018
Mrs Linda Noack	Salem LS Stillwater MN	Grace for Kids Lutheran Preschool Osceola WI ECM Teacher; Half-Time Call	4/8/2018
Mrs Kate Krieger		Christ-St Peter LS-West Campus Milwaukee WI Teacher; Grade 7	4/9/2018
Mr Joshua Lepke	St Marcus LS Milwaukee WI	St Paul LS Muskego WI Teacher	4/10/2018
Dr Rhoda Wolle	Wisconsin Lutheran College Milwaukee WI	Divine Savior Lutheran Academy Doral FL Teacher; School Counselor	4/10/2018
Miss Jessica Martinez	St Philip LS Milwaukee WI	St Paul LS Columbus OH Teacher; Grades 3-4	4/10/2018
Mr Philip Punzel	St Peter LS Appleton WI	Garden Homes LS Milwaukee WI Principal	4/11/2018
Mr Zachary Biebert	St Paul LS Beverly Hills FL	St Mark LS Green Bay WI Teacher; Grade 7	4/11/2018
Miss MyKayla Jensen	First LS La Crosse WI	St John LS Redwood Falls MN Teacher; Grade 2	4/11/2018
Mrs Nicole Steenbock		St Mark LS Green Bay WI Teacher; Grade 5, One-Year Call	4/11/2018
Mr Peter Buege	King of Kings LS Garden Grove CA	First German LS Manitowoc WI Principal & Grades 7-8	4/12/2018
Mrs Kelli Green		Martin Luther College New Ulm MN Professor; Special Education	4/12/2018
Mr Jeffrey Wetzel	St Paul LS Muskego WI	Atonement LS Milwaukee WI Teacher; Dean of Students	4/15/2018
Mrs Elizabeth Hagedorn	Good Shepherd LS West Bend WI	Trinity LS West Bend WI ECM Teacher	4/15/2018
Mrs Christine Leathers	Trinity LS Kiel WI	Little Lambs Learning Center Duluth MN ECM Director	4/15/2018
Mrs Nicole Habeck		Faith LS Tacoma WA ECM Director; Provisional Call	4/15/2018
Mr David Retzlaff	Good Shepherd LS Burnsville MN	St Martin’s LS Watertown SD Principal & Grades 6-8; Departmentalized	4/15/2018
Miss Lisa McKenney	Little Lambs Preschool Fort Collins CO	Mt Olive LS Overland Park KS ECM Director	4/15/2018
Miss Kim Gnewuch	Westside Christian School Middleton WI	Mt Calvary LS Waukesha WI Teacher; Grade 2	4/15/2018
Mr David Backus	St John LS Manitowoc WI	St Lucas LS Kewaskum WI Principal & Grades 5-6	4/15/2018
Mr Andrew Dais	St Paul LS Lake Mills WI	Faith LS Tacoma WA Teacher; Grades 5-6	4/15/2018
Mr Matthew Augustine	Zion LS Chesaning MI	Trinity LC Hoskins NE Principal & Upper Grades	4/15/2018
Miss Katelyn Zeamer	Atonement Early Childhood Center Milwaukee WI	Atonement LS Milwaukee WI ECM Teacher; Provisional Call	4/15/2018
Miss Edye Hilgendorf	Atonement LS Milwaukee WI	Atonement LS Milwaukee WI ECM Teacher; Provisional Call	4/15/2018
Ms Stephanie Kudek	Atonement LS Milwaukee WI	Atonement LS Milwaukee WI Teacher; Grade 2, Provisional Call	4/15/2018
Ms Kate Jaeger	Atonement LS Milwaukee WI	Atonement LS Milwaukee WI Teacher; Grade 3, Provisional Call	4/15/2018
Mr Shaun Stannard	Atonement LS Milwaukee WI	Atonement LS Milwaukee WI Teacher; Middle School Math, Provisional Call	4/15/2018
Miss Rachel Johnson	Atonement LS Milwaukee WI	Atonement LS Milwaukee WI Teacher; Physical Education, Provisional Call	4/15/2018
Mr Aaron Bauer	Garden Homes LS Milwaukee WI	Kettle Moraine Lutheran High School Jackson WI Teacher; Physical Education	4/16/2018
Mrs Trudy Tietz	St Paul LS Brownsville WI	Faith LS Fond du Lac WI Teacher; Grade 3	4/16/2018
Mr Justin Wiechmann	St Matthew’s LS Oconomowoc WI	St Peter LS Schofield WI Teacher; Grades 5-6	4/16/2018
Ms Beth Hauf	Bethany LS Manitowoc WI	Bethlehem LS-North Germantown WI Teacher; Grade 1	4/17/2018
Mr James Brandt	Wisconsin Lutheran College Milwaukee WI	North Shore Christian Academy Milwaukee WI Principal	4/17/2018
Mrs Krista Rydecki	Trinity LS Waukesha WI	Peace LS Hartford WI Teacher; Grade 2	4/18/2018
Mrs Stephanie Treder	Apostles LS San Jose CA	St John’s LS Jefferson WI ECM Director	4/18/2018
Mrs Melanie Giddings	FVL Schools Inc Appleton WI	FVL Schools Inc Appleton WI Teacher; Curriculum Coordinator	4/19/2018
Mrs Sarah Homan	Reformation LS San Diego CA	Siloah LS Milwaukee WI Teacher; Grade 1	4/22/2018
Mrs Kimberly Frey		St John-St James LS Reedsville WI ECM Teacher; One-Year, Part-Time Call	4/22/2018
Mrs Rebecca Crowe		Green Valley Lutheran Preschool & Kindergarten Henderson NV Teacher; Kindergarten, Provisional Call	4/22/2018
Ms Amy Johnson		Good Shepherd LS Downers Grove IL Teacher; Grades 2-3, Provisional Call	4/22/2018
Mr Daryl Weber	Bethlehem LS-South Menomonee Falls WI	Apostles LS San Jose CA Principal	4/22/2018
Mrs Carrie Schumacher	Atonement LS Milwaukee WI	Siloah LS Milwaukee WI Teacher; Grade 3	4/22/2018
Mrs Carol Tetzlaff	St Mark’s LS Watertown WI	St Paul LS Ixonia WI ECM Director; Half-Time Call	4/22/2018
Mr Benjamin Rank	Eastside LS Madison WI	Trinity LS Neenah WI Principal & Grades 7-8	4/22/2018
Mr Matthew Schreiber	Immanuel LS La Crosse WI	St John LS Manitowoc WI Teacher; Middle Grades & Extended Learning	4/22/2018
Mr Steven Hennig	Martin Luther LS Oshkosh WI	St Paul LS Livonia MI Principal	4/22/2018
Miss Elaina Mercier		Faith of a Child Daycare Oshkosh WI ECM Director	4/22/2018
Miss Nicole Roper	Small Steps Christian Learning Center Port Orange FL	Cross of Christ LS Coon Rapids MN ECM Director	4/22/2018
Mr Michael Homan	Reformation LS San Diego CA	Siloah LS Milwaukee WI Principal	4/22/2018
Mrs Bridget Weber	Bethlehem LS-North Germantown WI	Apostles LS San Jose CA Teacher; Grade 4	4/22/2018
Mrs Kathryn Schwartz	Good Shepherd LS Downers Grove IL	St Luke LS Oakfield WI Teacher; Grades 3-4	4/22/2018
Mrs Patricia Snyder	Faith Lutheran Preschool Sussex WI	Faith Lutheran Preschool Sussex WI ECM Teacher; Half-Time Call	4/22/2018
Mrs Lori Ernest		St Paul LS Fort Atkinson WI Teacher; Kindergarten	4/22/2018
Mr John Melso	Christ the Lord LS Brookfield WI	St Paul LS Wisconsin Rapids WI Principal	4/23/2018
Miss Terri Miller	St Paul First LS North Hollywood CA	St Paul LS Wisconsin Rapids WI Teacher; Kindergarten	4/23/2018
Mrs Carole Melso	Pilgrim LS Menomonee Falls WI	St Paul LS Wisconsin Rapids WI ECM Director	4/23/2018
Mr Paul Ihde	St Paul LS Stevensville MI	Trinity LS Caledonia WI Principal	4/24/2018
Mrs Angela Gumm		Trinity Lutheran Preschool Caledonia WI ECM Director	4/24/2018
Ms Angela Schneider		St Paul’s LS Muskego WI ECM Teacher; Provisional Call	4/24/2018
Ms Kelly Henning		St Paul’s LS Muskego WI Teacher; Grade 2, Provisional Call	4/24/2018
Mrs Julie Strassburg		Trinity LS Caledonia WI Teacher; Upper Grades	4/24/2018
Mr Adam Wiechmann	West Lutheran High School Plymouth MN	Arizona Lutheran Academy Phoenix AZ Teacher; Science	4/24/2018
Mr Benjamin Priebe	Fox Valley Lutheran High School Appleton WI	Abiding Word LS Houston TX Teacher; Grade 7 & Vice Principal	4/24/2018
Mr Philip Gustafson	St Mark LS Eau Claire WI	Lamb of God LS West Allis WI Principal & Grades 7-8	4/24/2018
Mrs Roxanne Sternaman	Pilgrim LS Mesa AZ	Emmanuel LC Tempe AZ Teacher; Grade 4	4/24/2018
Mrs Kimberly Frey		St Paul LS Appleton WI Teacher; Middle Grades Departmentalized, One-Year, Part-Time Call	4/24/2018
Ms Sandra Menefee	Emmanuel LS Tempe AZ	Emmanuel LC Tempe AZ Teacher; Grades 1-2, One-Year, Part-Time Call	4/24/2018
Miss Kathryn Gut	Shepherd of the Valley LS Westminster CO	Hope Lutheran Early Learning Center-Infant/Toddler Manhattan KS ECM Director	4/25/2018
Mrs Nancy Kanter	St Peter LS Helenville WI	Holy Cross LS Madison WI Teacher; Upper Grades Departmentalized	4/26/2018
Mr Edwin Fredrich	Grace LS Glendale AZ	Divine Savior Lutheran Academy Doral FL Teacher; Middle School English	4/26/2018
Mr Matthew Foley	Emanuel LS New London WI	Huron Valley Lutheran High School Westland MI Principal	4/26/2018
Mr Steven Lehman	St Paul LS North Fond du Lac WI	Divine Savior Lutheran Academy Doral FL Teacher; Grade 3	4/26/2018
Mrs Nancy Ring		Trinity LS Waco NE Principal & Grades 4-8	4/29/2018
Mrs Sarah Mueller		St Paul LS Howards Grove WI Teacher; Grades 7-8, Half-Time Call	4/29/2018
Mrs Kayla Wilkins	Trinity LS Marshfield WI	St John LS Caledonia MN Teacher; Grades 3-4	4/29/2018
Mr Timothy Vogel	Shepherd of the Hills LS La Mesa CA	Shepherd of the Valley LS Westminster CO Principal & Grades 6-8	4/29/2018
Mr Todd Dahlke	Trinity LS Marshfield WI	St John LS Montello WI Principal & Upper Grades	4/29/2018
Mrs Emilee Nemmers	Lord of Life LS Thornton CO	St Matthew’s LS Oconomowoc WI Teacher; Grade 5, One-Year Call	4/29/2018
Mr Ryan Randall	Salem LS-Greenfield MN Greenfield MN	Salem LS-Greenfield MN Greenfield MN President & Grades 7-8	4/29/2018
Mrs Eileen Wassermann		Mt Olive LS Delano MN Teacher; Kindergarten-Grade 2, Provisional Call	4/29/2018
Staff Ministers	Current call	New call	Date issued
Mr Stephen Pankow	St Paul’s First LC North Hollywood CA	Little Lambs Learning Center Danube MN ECM Director	4/12/2018
Mr Galen Holzhueter	Martin Luther College New Ulm MN	Pilgrim LC Minneapolis MN Development Director	4/22/2018

CALLS ACCEPTED

Pastors	Current call	New call	Date accepted
Rev Donald Thompson	Retired	St John LC Mukwonago WI Pastor	4/30/2018
Teachers	Current call	New call	Date accepted
Mr Justin Vanderhoof	Martin Luther LS Neenah WI	Lakeside Lutheran High School Lake Mills WI Teacher; English & Social Studies	4/21/2018
Mrs Danielle Powers	New Hope Lutheran Academy West Melbourne FL	St Paul LS Green Bay WI Teacher; Grades 7-8 & Special Ed	4/23/2018
Mrs Kristin Nelson		St Paul LS Green Bay WI ECM Teacher; Half-Time, Provisional Call	4/25/2018
Mr Kyle Swogger	Trinity LS Brillion WI	St Mark LS Lincoln NE Principal & Grades 5-8	4/25/2018
Mrs Kimberly Youngerberg		Jesus Loves Me Learning Center North Mankato MN ECM Teacher	4/26/2018
Miss Jeanine Heller	Martin Luther LS Plzen Czech Republic	St Paul LS Columbus OH Teacher; Kindergarten	4/27/2018
Mrs Bethany Hilgendorf		St Bartholomew LS Kawkawlin MI Teacher; Kindergarten	4/27/2018
Mrs Michelle Roth	Zion LS Monroe MI	Zion LS Monroe MI Teacher; Grades 1-2	4/27/2018
Mrs Marie Becker	St Paul LS Franklin WI	Zion LS Columbus WI Teacher; Grades 5-6	4/28/2018
Miss Vicki Humann	Zion LS Rhinelander WI	St Paul LS Rapid City SD Teacher; Kindergarten	4/29/2018
Ms Julia Pasch		St John LS Watertown WI Preschool Coordinator; Half-Time, Provisional Call	4/29/2018
Mrs Melissa Berg	St Paul LS Rapid City SD	St Paul LS Rapid City SD Teacher; Departmentalized Subjects, Three-Quarter Time Call	4/29/2018

CALLS DECLINED

Pastors	Current call	New call	Date declined
Rev Bradley Taylor	Prince of Peace LC Flower Mound TX	Peace LC Kokomo IN Pastor	4/25/2018
Rev Charles Learman	Retired	Shepherd of the Hills LC Fredericksburg TX Pastor	4/27/2018
Rev Craig Engel	Immanuel LC Willmar MN	St Matthew’s LC Niles IL Pastor	4/27/2018
Rev Andrew Ewald	St John LC Clare MI Faith LC Harrison MI	Emanuel First LC Lansing MI Associate Pastor	4/27/2018
Rev Matthew Kuske	St Paul LC Lomira WI	Christ LC Merrill WI Pastor	4/28/2018
Rev Peter Korthals	St Paul LC & Beautiful Savior LC Amherst NH	St Paul LC Wisconsin Rapids WI Associate Pastor	4/28/2018
Teachers	Current call	New call	Date declined
Mr David Mielke	St Croix Lutheran Academy West Saint Paul MN	Lakeside Lutheran High School Lake Mills WI Teacher; Science	4/20/2018
Mr Benjamin Pagel	Peridot-Our Savior’s LS Peridot AZ	Emmaus LS Phoenix AZ Teacher; Grades 5-6	4/24/2018
Mr Bradley Nehls	Minnesota Valley Lutheran High School New Ulm MN	Manitowoc Lutheran High School Manitowoc WI Teacher; Math	4/24/2018
Mr Jonathan Biedenbender	Mt Calvary-Grace LS La Crosse WI	St Paul LS Fort Atkinson WI Principal & Grades 5-8; Departmentalized	4/25/2018
Miss Tabitha Mays	Ascension Lutheran Preschool Plymouth MN	St Mark Little Lions Preschool Salina KS ECM Director	4/25/2018
Miss Aimee Hardman	Northdale LS Tampa FL	Divine Savior Lutheran Academy Doral FL Teacher; Grade 3	4/25/2018
Miss Jennifer Keller	Little Lambs of Peace Preschool Eagle River AK	Sienna Lutheran Academy Missouri City TX Teacher; Kindergarten	4/25/2018
Mr Ryan Rosenthal	Faith LS Fond du Lac WI	St John’s LS Jefferson WI Teacher; Grades 7-8	4/26/2018
Mrs Jaymie De Frain	St Mark’s LS Watertown WI	Prince of Peace LS Taylorsville UT Teacher; Grades 1-2	4/26/2018
Mrs Katie Muchka	Morrison Zion LS Greenleaf WI	Divine Savior Lutheran Academy Doral FL Teacher; Grade 1	4/26/2018
Mr Richard Muchka	Morrison Zion LS Greenleaf WI	Divine Savior Lutheran Academy Doral FL Teacher; High School Math	4/26/2018
Mr Casey De Frain	St Mark’s LS Watertown WI	Prince of Peace LS Taylorsville UT Teacher; Grades 3-5	4/26/2018
Ms Justine Smith	Peace LS Kissimmee FL	Good Shepherd LS Downers Grove IL Teacher; Kindergarten	4/26/2018
Mrs Brenda Carpenter		Trinity LS Belle Plaine MN ECM Teacher; Half-Time Call	4/27/2018
Miss Sharon Fickau	Zion LS 3K-8th Grade Hartland WI	St John LS Redwood Falls MN Teacher; Grade 1	4/27/2018
Mr Timothy Mueller Jr	Star of Bethlehem LS New Berlin WI	St Mark LS Citrus Heights CA Principal	4/27/2018
Miss Rachel Nowicki	Prairie LS Lower Site Gibbon MN	Good Shepherd Lutheran Academy Deltona FL Teacher; Grade 4	4/27/2018
Mr Michael Albrecht	Christ Alone LS Thiensville WI	Minnesota Valley Lutheran High School New Ulm MN Teacher; English	4/28/2018
Mr Daniel Johnson	Mt Lebanon LS-Omega Campus Gr 5-8 Milwaukee WI	St Paul LS Columbus OH Teacher; Grades 5-6	4/28/2018
Mr Timothy Raddatz	St John LS Wrightstown WI	Trinity LS Marinette WI Principal & Grades 5-8	4/28/2018
Miss Christine Swoboda	Shepherd LS Albuquerque NM	Grace LS Glendale AZ Teacher; Kindergarten	4/28/2018

RESIGNED

Pastors	Current call	Date resigned
Rev James Schwark	Alpine LC Alpine CA	5/27/2018
Teachers	Current call	Date resigned
Mrs Katharine Bremer	St Paul’s School of Early Learning (SOEL) Muskego WI	6/30/2018
Staff Ministers	Current call	Date resigned
Mr Steven Bruns	Prison Ministry New Ulm MN	4/23/2018

CALLED TO ETERNAL GLORY

Teachers	Home church	Death date
Dr Alan Spurgin	St Paul LC New Ulm MN	4/24/2018
Mr Ronald Unke		4/28/2018

RETIREMENT

Pastors	Current call	Date retired
Rev Jonathan Stern	Christian Giving Counselor- AZ CA & SO CT Waukesha WI	12/31/2018
Teachers	Current call	Date retired
Mrs Cheryl Holzhueter	Trinity-St Luke Clark St Campus Watertown WI	6/30/2018
Mrs Mary Wessel	Christ LS North Saint Paul MN	6/30/2018
Mr Timothy Paschke	Loving Shepherd LS Milwaukee WI	7/31/2018

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Fools

2018/04/30/in FIC Features, Forward in Christ

Andrew C. Schroer

It all began with an edict by Pope Gregory XIII in 1582. The Julian calendar used by most of the Western world had some problems. Among other things, seasons and solstices did not always line up because the calendar did not accurately calculate leap years.

The new calendar, called the Gregorian calendar, established a more accurate number of leap years as well as other innovations. Pope Gregory’s calendar also established Jan. 1 as the official beginning of the year.

Though Jan. 1 had traditionally been the first day of the year on the Julian calendar, by the Middle Ages many Western European countries celebrated the new year on different days. In some countries, New Year’s was celebrated at the end of March and the beginning of April.

When Pope Gregory published his new calendar, there was no Facebook and no CNN. There wasn’t even radio. News about the changes spread slowly. Many continued to celebrate New Year’s on their traditional dates decades, and even centuries, later.

Those who continued to celebrate the New Year at the end of March and the beginning of April, either due to ignorance or just plain obstinance, were soon mocked by their fellow countrymen. They were called fools, and practical jokes were played on them.

According to some historians, thus began the celebration of April Fools’ Day.

Much has been made in the media about the fact that Easter this year falls on April Fools’ Day. It’s ironic. As Christians we often play the role of the fool for believing the Easter message.

For those who don’t believe in Jesus, what we believe seems ridiculous. We believe that because God was born as a man, nailed to a piece of wood, died, and came back to life, we are now free from any guilt or punishment for every bad thing we do. We believe we will live forever with him one day in a perfect place of happiness called heaven somewhere beyond our existence here on earth.

Many of the greatest scientists and scholars of our age mock us and call us dumb for believing the Bible. Even the apostle Paul was laughed off by the educated elite of his day (Acts 17:32). As Christians we are fools. To be more accurate, though, we are sophomores. You see, the word sophomore literally means “a wise fool.”

But even though the world considers us foolish, we have true wisdom. To the world, what we believe as Christians is weak and foolish. The apostle Paul reminds us of that but concludes, “The foolishness of God is wiser than human wisdom” (1 Corinthians 1:25).

How can anyone believe in what so many think is for fools? Only through faith can a person see its true wisdom and power.

Through Jesus’ humble death and glorious resurrection, we have become heirs of heaven. We are now sons and daughters of the King of all creation. Through faith, we have true understanding, but we can’t prove any of it. The world cannot see it. It seems foolish to them.

But instead of getting upset when the world calls us fools, instead of getting embarrassed, instead of feeling like you have to defend or prove what you believe, embrace the foolishness of the cross. Accept the fact that the world does not and will never understand. Jesus told us it would be that way. Some will mock us. Some will point and call us fools.

Don’t worry about it. Don’t be ashamed. Don’t back down. One day, God will reveal who the true fools really are.

Contributing editor Andrew Schroer is pastor at Redeemer, Edna, Texas.

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Author: Andrew C. Schroer
Volume 105, Number 4
Issue: April 2018

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Social media expands reach and offers more connections

2018/04/30/in FIC News, Forward in Christ

It started with wanting to offer more women in a congregation the opportunity to study together.

Corissa Nelson, wife of the pastor at Good Shepherd, Cedar Rapids, Iowa, decided to start a midweek women’s Bible class using 2000 Demons by E. Allen Sorum as the base of the study. With short chapters, already included questions, and a riveting topic, the book seemed a perfect fit.

The problem: finding time during the week when most women could meet. Also congregation members are scattered, many living at least half an hour from church.

The solution: social media.

Nelson decided to create a Facebook group, where she would post a question or two a day related to that week’s reading. Members of the group could comment and share their thoughts and ideas. While a small group from the church still met in person each week, this allowed more people who couldn’t make weekday meetings to participate.

But Nelson didn’t stop there. “Once I realized that we had bridged those miles, I determined we could invite anyone to be in the study,” she says. As part of the WELS Women’s Ministry Development Committee, Nelson thought offering this online opportunity for Bible study would be a great way to build community for all WELS women. So WELS Women’s Ministry began promoting this Bible study opportunity on its Facebook page.

More than 600 women from around the country (and even some from abroad) joined the group throughout the course of the monthlong Bible study, which concluded this past February. Nelson said between 300 to 500 of these were active, returning often to the site even if they didn’t always post comments.

Nelson says that having this broader group involved helped Good Shepherd, a smaller, isolated congregation, feel more connected to the synod and other WELS members. “They were able to connect with more mature Christians and learn from them,” she says.

Others commented on Facebook that they too had difficulty getting to a Bible study and appreciated this additional opportunity to study God’s Word. “Although it’s not as perfect as everyone sitting around a table and sharing ideas, it really can encourage more people to have some personal study and connect with other women,” says Nelson.

Nelson plans to offer another women’s Bible study, starting April 9. This one, written by her husband Pastor Marques Nelson, will be on getting women involved in evangelism, based on the book of Acts. To join, go to facebook.com/groups/WMStudyGSLCR.

Learn more about WELS Women’s Ministry at wels.net/women.

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Volume 105, Number 4
Issue: April 2018

Copyrighted by WELS Forward in Christ © 2021
Forward in Christ grants permission for any original article (not a reprint) to be printed for use in a WELS church, school, or organization, provided that it is distributed free and indicate Forward in Christ as the source. Images may not be reproduced except in the context of its article. Contact us

New start in South America

2018/04/30/in FIC News, Forward in Christ

This summer two missionaries from the One Latin America (1LA) mission team—Nathan Schulte and Phil Strackbein—will be moving to Ecuador. This will be the first time WELS will have an active mission presence in this South American country. Schulte currently serves in Mexico, and Strackbein serves in Bolivia.

“In the beginning of November all the 1LA missionaries met in Mexico City to discuss a major training program we are developing and the relocation of different missionaries to best accomplish our goals as a team,” says Schulte. “We want to reach as many people as possible and to train people to be leaders in their own multiplying groups. The team had done extensive research on a number of major cities in Latin America. Quito, Ecuador, eventually came to the top of the list.”

One of the main contributing factors to the decision was the large number of Facebook users in Ecuador who follow Academia Cristo online—more than 60,000. Academia Cristo is a Spanish-language website that offers video and audio Bible studies and live online training to reach out to non-Christians as well as to teach Latin American church members how to share their faith.

This location in Ecuador also puts the missionaries closer to other countries in South America where WELS can’t permanently locate a missionary for safety or political reasons but where interest in the gospel message has been demonstrated through active use of the Academia Cristo website.

A third reason is, while WELS has never officially had a mission in Ecuador, Martin Luther College Spanish Professor Paul Bases has been taking groups of students there for years to teach English, and, through that work, valuable connections have already been made.

Larry Schlomer, administrator of WELS World Missions, says the main goal of the missionaries is to “facilitate the planting of small group churches in Quito and beyond.” He says, “The idea is to connect Ecuadorean Christians to the online materials and relationships so that they’re able to keep the ministry rolling even after our missionaries might leave.”

Schulte says, “I love the fact that, from the start, we are focused on training Ecuadorians to study God’s Word and to share it with others. They know their culture and situations better than I ever will, and God has already placed them in their own unique contexts with their own connections and opportunities. I’m really looking forward to working to help them to do just that—share God’s grace with others.”

The missionaries’ first priorities will be finding a location for a Christian training center and doing boots-on-the-ground work—meeting their neighbors and learning more about the community. To help this effort, two congregations—St. Matthew, Oconomowoc, Wis., and Goodview Trinity, Goodview, Minn.—will be sending volunteers in May and June to host introduction workshops open to the Quito community. These two volunteer groups are the inaugural groups for the new WELS Mission Journeys program, which coordinates opportunities for WELS members who want to volunteer in a mission field.

“Ecuador, like all Latin America, is in desperate need of God’s grace. It is grace-starved. Even in many churches and Christian groups, the emphasis is not on Jesus and what he has done for us in our salvation,” says Schulte. “We want to bring people to the source of that grace—the Bible—and to teach them to learn from it and share it with others.”

Learn more about WELS Missions at wels.net/missions. Check out Academia Cristo at academiacristo.com. Find out more about WELS Mission Journeys in the upcoming June issue.

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Volume 105, Number 4
Issue: April 2018

Copyrighted by WELS Forward in Christ © 2021
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Native Christians look to the future

2018/04/30/in FIC News, Forward in Christ

This year marks the 125th anniversary of WELS World Mission work on the Apache reservation in Arizona. While the Native American Mission is planning to celebrate its history and God’s blessings over the years, it also is looking forward to how it can share the gospel message in the future.

“Our past is amazing,” says Dan Rautenberg, the Native American Mission field coordinator. “We honor that, but at the same time we’re not just looking back at the amazing things people did long ago. Our people have the same potential now, and we have new opportunities.”

He continues, “That’s what Christians do—we receive the gospel, we get on our feet, and we spread the gospel. We need to take our part in that long line of Christians throughout history.”

The mission has its eyes on the 500-plus other reservations throughout the United States. Rautenberg says 95 percent of the Native Americans on these reservations aren’t Christian.

While the mission has some contacts on other reservations, it is hoping to broaden its reach through its new website, NativeChristians.org. Developed as part of the anniversary celebration, the website is working to establish an identity that’s wider than just the two current reservations, hence the name Native Christians. The site currently shares 125th anniversary plans and historical articles about the field, but future plans call for making the site an evangelism tool that Native Christians can use to share the gospel with their friends, family, and acquaintances—no matter where they’re located. “We have the unique ability to personalize it from natives for natives,” says Rautenberg.

The ultimate goal, according to Rautenberg, is to be looking at two new prospective mission sites in the next three years.

He knows that won’t be easy. “But it wasn’t easy to start a mission 125 years ago either,” he says. “That’s our challenge. To take a church that’s done so much in the past but still has energy to go out into the future.”

Check out the new website at NativeChristians.org.

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Volume 105, Number 4
Issue: April 2018

Copyrighted by WELS Forward in Christ © 2021
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Teen Talk: Facing persecution

2018/04/30/in FIC Features, Forward in Christ

Don’t let others stop you from showing your faith.

Taylor Wolfram

Most of us have never faced the threat of death because of our faith, but everyone has faced persecution. As soon as we speak about our faith, we are stereotyped as ignorant, unaccepting, and hypocritical. We learn not to bring up religion. Christianity is seen as an unspeakable topic that causes divisions.

When I was younger, Jesus was new and exciting, something that everyone needed to hear. So I told everyone. It was a conversation starter. Now when I meet new people, one of the logical questions they ask is where I go to school. After scores of disappointed responses to my answer of a Lutheran high school, I just gave up. I gave them a city, and that seemed to satisfy them. But that seemed to deny Jesus, and I didn’t want to do that.

It’s so easy to say that you’re proud of being a Christian among hundreds of Christians in church on Sunday. It’s easy to say that you’ll follow Christ into death while in your high school religion class. But once you’re out in the world, it’s not as easy. God doesn’t promise rainbows and sunshine if we become Christians. He warns us that it will be hard. Jesus said in Matthew 16:24, “Whoever wants to be my disciple must deny themselves and take up their cross and follow me.”

We may have to endure glares, lose friends, and handle being ridiculed for now, but our suffering is not in vain. Romans 5:3,4 says, “We also glory in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope.”

And we are not really alone when we confess our faith. The whole world may be lined up against us, but we have God on our side. If God is for us, who can be against us? Plenty of people may stand in our way, may poke fun at us, or may ridicule us, but God will help us persevere. He won’t give us more than we can bear, and he will see us through everything and anything we are going through

So if you’re going through a rough patch, don’t lose hope. Pray to the Lord. Read your Bible. You will get through it. This world is temporary, but your salvation is eternal. Hold steadfast, and no one will be able to separate you from Christ. No trouble, hardship, persecution, or temptation will be able to lure you away from what really matters. You could go along with the world and gain tons of friends, but none of that will matter if you lose your eternal salvation.

If others forsake you for your faith, your witness is a bold confession for all to hear. You are living your faith as God wants you to. Don’t be afraid of persecution. It’s just showing that you are not from this world, you don’t agree with it, and you won’t consent to the temptations of it. You are looking forward to the world to come.

Don’t lose sight of that. “Blessed is the one who perseveres under trial because, having stood the test, that person will receive the crown of life that the Lord has promised to those who love him” (James 1:12).

Taylor Wolfram, a junior at Lakeside Lutheran High School, Lake Mills, Wisconsin, is a member of St. Paul, Fort Atkinson, Wisconsin.

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Author: KTaylor Wolfram
Volume 105, Number 4
Issue: April 2018

Copyrighted by WELS Forward in Christ © 2021
Forward in Christ grants permission for any original article (not a reprint) to be printed for use in a WELS church, school, or organization, provided that it is distributed free and indicate Forward in Christ as the source. Images may not be reproduced except in the context of its article. Contact us

Grass roots in action

2018/04/30/in FIC Features, Forward in Christ

Mark G. Schroeder

Our synod is organized into 12 geographical districts. In June of even-numbered years, each district holds a convention to consider important matters facing the synod and to conduct other business. Plans are already underway for this year’s district conventions.

Delegates to the district conventions include every pastor, every male teacher, and a representative from each congregation in the district. That makes the district conventions an opportunity for truly grassroots participation in the decisions and direction of the synod.

One of the most important responsibilities of the district conventions is to elect people to serve in various important positions. Perhaps the most important of these is the position of district president, who is elected for a two-year term at each district convention.

The district president serves as the pastor of the entire district. In that role he is responsible for overseeing all doctrine and practice in the district. He is tasked with providing spiritual leadership to the called workers and congregations of the district, encouraging faithfulness to the Word of God and the teachings of the Lutheran Confessions. He is also responsible, along with the other officers (the two district vice presidents and the district secretary, who are also elected at each district convention), for carrying out discipline when called workers or congregations stray from the truth.

Another important role of the district president is to assist congregations in the calling process. When a vacancy at a church or school occurs, the district president consults with the congregation about the congregation’s ministry needs and then, when the congregation is ready to issue a divine call, provides a list of candidates along with pertinent information about those candidates.

The district president also serves as a member of the Conference of Presidents (COP). This group has the responsibility for overseeing the doctrine and practice of the entire synod, working together to provide support and guidance to congregations and to look out for the needs of called workers.

Each district has a lay representative serving on the Synodical Council (SC). Elected by the district convention, this representative gives each district both a voice and a set of ears in the important work carried out by the SC—another opportunity for ongoing grassroots participation in the decisions affecting the entire synod. Elections for people to serve on various district committees also take place at the district conventions.

The district conventions provide called workers and lay delegates with the opportunity to hear reports from all synodical ministries and offices. Those reports typically look back and review what has been done in the past year, and they also look forward and present plans, opportunities, and challenges for the future. These reports are published in the Report to the Twelve Districts, which is sent to every delegate and congregation before the convention and also posted on the synod’s website.

District conventions also give delegates the opportunity to express opinions and grassroots input regarding matters that will come before the synod convention in the following year. They can express support or opposition to proposals through the resolutions they pass. They can also provide input of their own choosing by asking the synod convention to address specific topics or needs.

As summer approaches, please keep these gatherings and their delegates in your prayers. Talk to your representatives about what they will be considering and give them your encouragement. They represent you and your congregation—a true exercise in grassroots participation in the work of your synod.

Find dates and locations of this year’s district conventions at wels.net/events.

Mark Schroeder is president of WELS.

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Author: Mark G. Schroeder
Volume 105, Number 4
Issue: April 2018

Copyrighted by WELS Forward in Christ © 2021
Forward in Christ grants permission for any original article (not a reprint) to be printed for use in a WELS church, school, or organization, provided that it is distributed free and indicate Forward in Christ as the source. Images may not be reproduced except in the context of its article. Contact us

Book Nook: April 2018

2018/04/30/in FIC News, Forward in Christ

Understanding church fellowship

Deathtraps are those things that hinder faith or prevent sinners from coming to faith. We avoid deathtraps when we are in the Word. The Joy of Gathering Around the Truth is the subtitle to Escaping the Deathtraps and tells us how to escape the deathtraps.

Church fellowship can be a deathtrap when it is misunderstood or misapplied. This book, written by Dr. Terry Schultz, explains church fellowship and answers questions many of us have about fellowship in a series of 21 Bible studies. It is set in a Peruvian village, but it could be anywhere. The studies begin with questions from the congregation. Pastor Pedro uses stories and God’s Word to answer the questions. Sometimes the stories are told by the church members.

The stories are told orally, with pictures, with music, with drama, and with humor. The stories teach biblical doctrines so that, with a clear understanding of doctrine, church fellowship practices are better understood.

Don’t expect to read this book in one sitting. Use it instead for group Bible study, book clubs, personal or family devotions. Read a story—a chapter—a week or even a chapter a day and answer the study questions at the end of each chapter. The questions will help with practical applications. You will have a better understanding of what we believe and how we can share God’s love with our neighbors.

Teaching methods vary, and this book shows you don’t have to sit still in a classroom or lecture hall to study God’s Word. You can laugh; you can dance; you can sing; you can cry; you can even use practical jokes. Telling stories to teach biblical truths worked well and brought joy to the members of this Peruvian church—as it will for you.

Mark Schulz
Milton, Wisconsin

Price: $18.99 nph.net

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Volume 105, Number 4
Issue: April 2018

Copyrighted by WELS Forward in Christ © 2021
Forward in Christ grants permission for any original article (not a reprint) to be printed for use in a WELS church, school, or organization, provided that it is distributed free and indicate Forward in Christ as the source. Images may not be reproduced except in the context of its article. Contact us

New training to help protect children

2018/04/30/in FIC News, Forward in Christ

A new training program to help people recognize and respond to child abuse is being released in April by Freedom for the Captives, a WELS organization that works to protect children and empower survivors of abuse.

The program—entitled “Standing up for Children: A Christian Response to Child Abuse and Neglect”—consists of four videos that review dealing with physical, emotional, and spiritual abuse and provide a theological basis for the importance of protecting children. The course also highlights how to create and enforce a child protection policy for a church, school, or organization.

“We want to make it as easy as possible for pastors, teachers, and lay leaders to get some fundamental training on how to keep children as safe as possible,” says Ben Sadler, chairman of the Freedom for the Captives committee and pastor at Goodview Trinity, Goodview, Minn. He recommends that all pastors, teachers, and lay leaders for children’s ministries go through ongoing training like this.

Sadler says that having a child protection policy in place at a congregation or school and having ongoing training for those who work with children also encourages survivors. “When going through this training, it raises awareness in the congregation on how we might better help people who’ve been abused,” he says. “It lets those who are suffering in silence know that [the church] cares about them.”

Sexual abuse is widespread in our communities. The Kaiser Adverse Childhood Experience (ACE) study, conducted by the Center for Disease Control and Prevention in 1997, shares that 1 in 4 women and 1 in 6 men were sexually abused as children. “I think there is still the idea that this is somebody else’s church’s problem,” says Sadler. “Avoiding the issue won’t make it go away. We need to offer hope that we can encourage and help people who have gone through these difficult situations. And we need to provide the tools to keep our children safe.”

Funding from Antioch Foundation helped make this training program possible. This funding also is allowing committee member Victor Vieth, a worldwide advocate for children, founder of the Gunderson National Child Protection Training Center, and member at St. John, Lewiston, Minn., to present at congregations, schools, and conferences in person. E-mail [email protected] to get access to the free training videos.

To learn more about Freedom for the Captives, a part of WELS Special Ministries, go to freedomforcaptives.com.

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Volume 105, Number 4
Issue: April 2018

Copyrighted by WELS Forward in Christ © 2021
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For the kingdom, the power, and the glory are yours now and forever

2018/04/30/in FIC Features, Forward in Christ

John A. Braun

Kingdom? So often we think in such narrow terms about the word kingdom. We consider it defined by our personal experiences and activities. Even if we consider kingdom as Christ’s kingdom, we still see its shape and contours by what we know.

That perspective is good and healthy as far as it goes. We praise God for finding us in the span of history, calling us by the gospel, and making us part of a kingdom. We—most often we think and say I, using the singular—are chosen, royal, holy people belonging to God (1 Peter 2:9). We have all that by grace through faith. We are—I am—called by the gospel, enlightened, and incorporated into his church.

But then that enlightened heart expands our vision. I am not alone; others belong to that kingdom. We are together—his. But that still becomes too narrow. We are here at this time and this place. Even time and place confine Christ’s kingdom. His kingdom stretches over all time to include those who have gone before us and those who will come after us. Place is just as limiting. Place might imply culture, social, racial, and economic similarities, but those are also gone—one kingdom, one head, Jesus and all who believe in him together.

Our vision of his kingdom can come into focus when we say his prayer together in our worship. For two thousand years Christians have prayed to their heavenly Father using the words Jesus taught us. And they haven’t all spoken his prayer in English or in churches with pews.

Yours is the kingdom! We simply find ourselves citizens now with so many others over time and geography. His power sustains that church. The gospel is the power of God for salvation (Romans 1:16). That power made us believers and still sustains us. It is the means by which God keeps us in his kingdom and converts new hearts to marvel at his grace.

But I think we most often think of Christ’s almighty power. That’s okay, for he rules all things for the benefit of those in his kingdom. He controls the stars and still sees our struggles as well as our joys. He knows the number of hairs on our heads and tells us that not one sparrow falls to the ground without his knowledge (Matthew 10:29,30). We depend on his power for daily breath, for strength, for care, and for the ability to use our talents for him and for others. He even invites us to pray that he will use that power for us in our needs. Yours is the power, Lord.

Naturally we conclude, “Yours is the glory!” What else could we possibly say or think? We are not worthy of anything, but God has made us recipients of so much. But now our hymn of praise is imperfect. We are still tied to life here with its trials, troubles, and traumas. At times it is not easy to give him glory, but we do, even while we anguish over some pain or problem. But at other times, when the Holy Spirit helps us see clearly all that God has done for us, we praise him without complaint.

We look forward to the time when our praise will be perfect and we will join those in heaven to sing, “Praise and glory and wisdom and thanks and honor and power and strength be to our God for ever and ever” (Revelation 7:12). Here we simply say together, “For the kingdom, the power, and the glory are yours now and forever.”

John Braun is executive editor of the Forward in Christ magazine.

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Author: John A. Braun
Volume 105, Number 4
Issue: April 2018

Copyrighted by WELS Forward in Christ © 2021
Forward in Christ grants permission for any original article (not a reprint) to be printed for use in a WELS church, school, or organization, provided that it is distributed free and indicate Forward in Christ as the source. Images may not be reproduced except in the context of its article. Contact us

Easter emotion and faith

2018/04/30/in FIC Features, Forward in Christ

The angel’s message at the tomb brings comfort, joy, and relief.

Daniel M. Solofra

I was once told that it is difficult to effectively counsel someone within 24 hours of a traumatic event. If you have ever made a visit to an emergency room you know how overwhelming the experience can be. Sometimes people go into shock. Others describe the ordeal as surreal. For this reason it is difficult to process information and to think clearly at that moment.

When dealing with individuals who experience tragic events, we especially try to be sensitive and understanding. Taking into account their fragile condition, we try to comfort and encourage as we help them process their life-changing events.

Death is coming

It is with this type of consideration of human weakness that I picture the angel engaging the women on Easter morning. The angel had a strong and powerful message, but it was delivered to a fragile and struggling audience.

The first Easter message is one of comfort. “Do not be afraid,” the angel said. These words speak volumes. The women did not need to be afraid. They did not need to be afraid of the angel and more than they did not need to be afraid of the absence of the body of Jesus. And, most important, they did not need to be afraid of death.

Because let’s face it, death is scary. Death always seems to take us by surprise. The death of Jesus took these women by surprise. They couldn’t believe it. For us it’s the same thing, whether it’s the sudden death of someone too young to die or the anticipated death of an elderly relative.

Have you experienced an encounter with death? A close call for you or someone close to you? Death reminds us that we and those we love are mortal. It reminds us of a sin problem that causes death. It captures our attention and whispers, “Are you ready to meet your God?”

We don’t need to fear death

God’s first words to the women at the tomb and to us as we face death go against every emotion we feel. He says, “Don’t be afraid!” The angel quickly adds, “He is not here; he has risen, just as he said. Come and see the place where he lay” (Matthew 28:6).

For the women at the tomb, it was obvious why this message would bring joy, happiness, and relief. Their friend was no longer dead. Jesus was alive. In a very short period of time, they would see him and talk to him.

But Jesus’ life means so much more to these women—and to us. The death Jesus died three days earlier was no ordinary death. Jesus’ death was preceded by a perfect life. He came into this world to live the perfect life that God demands of us and to die in our place as a payment for sin. Jesus’ resurrection was not only his victory, but ours as well.

For the women, Easter morning started with fear and hurt and heartache. But all of this changed with an invitation to view an empty tomb. “The women hurried away from the tomb, afraid yet filled with joy, and ran to tell his disciples” (Matthew 28:8). I am sure the day seemed surreal. But the significance of the angel’s message, “He is not here, He is risen!” would continue to shape their hearts and lives.

Jesus’ resurrection does not mean that death won’t visit your door one day. But it does mean that when it does, with Jesus by your side, you will be ready to face it.

Daniel Solofra is pastor at CrossWalk Lutheran Ministries, Laveen, Arizona.

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Author: Daniel M. Solofra
Volume 105, Number 4
Issue: April 2018

Copyrighted by WELS Forward in Christ © 2021
Forward in Christ grants permission for any original article (not a reprint) to be printed for use in a WELS church, school, or organization, provided that it is distributed free and indicate Forward in Christ as the source. Images may not be reproduced except in the context of its article. Contact us

Moments with missionaries: Grenada

2018/04/30/in FIC News, Forward in Christ

Ib Meyer

It’s called “oil down.”* It’s the national dish of Grenada. The ingredients include dasheen (calallo) leaves, chive and thyme, carrots, Scotch bonnet (or habenero) pepper, dumplings, pig tail and snout, turmeric (locally called saffron), salt fish, breadfruit, coconut milk, and onion. All these ingredients—prepared, layered, and cooked over a long period of time—blend together to create a tasty and nourishing meal.

That is what Grace Lutheran in Grenada is—a blend of God’s children from different social and religious backgrounds, brought together by the gospel, gifted with God-given skills and abilities, working together as one congregation to serve the tasty and life-giving meal of the gospel of Jesus.

Grace is overseen by the South Atlantic District Mission Board, but we are not your usual home mission. We are the only Lutheran church in the country. We are diverse, different, unified, and truly blessed by God.

Our “oil down” (ministry), just like the meal, is layered. It is made up not only of spices (people) but also of “provisions”—the staples and substance of any good meal. Our ministry is blessed to include three layers—church, community outreach, and a primary school (preschool through grade six).

Let’s meet two of the people who make up our “oil down”—Elder Terry Louison and church secretary Neisha Roach.

Neisha is the younger of the two but has been at Grace the longest. She is married to Patrick, who leads our youth and music ministry, and they have a two-year-old daughter called “Nana.” Neisha, like many of the members of Grace, was raised in the Pentecostal church. She came to Grace almost 10 years ago and stayed because of the nourishing gospel.

Grenada’s society has strong matriarchal undertones. Neisha knows the culture, and she knows her Savior. She is patient and humble, strong and committed. Her quiet demeanor invites confidence and trust. Members will come to her and ask for advice or inform her of a matter, knowing that she will pass it on to the pastor if appropriate. Neisha is currently enrolled in the Martin Luther College Congregational Assistant Program, and upon completion, we want to call her as our deaconess.

Terry joined Grace about three years ago. He worked in the US and also studied and worked in Cuba. His spiritual journey, beginning in the Roman Catholic Church, is a windy, twisting long road that reveals God’s mercy in action. He is a scholar of history and of God’s Word. If you want to know anything about Grenada (history, flora, fauna, culture and more), Terry is the person to ask. If you want to be spiritually enriched, speak to Terry. You will leave the conversation a wiser person and blessed by the Lord.

Terry is a master tour guide operator. He owns a bus (a van really), which he uses for his tour guiding. However, as many of our members do not have cars, he transports them to and from church on Sunday. While driving, he listens to the members and encourages them. He proclaims the gospel not only in words but also in a life that gives glory to God.

These are just two of many wonderful, spicy, flavorful souls whose lives the gospel has touched here in Grenada. “Taste and see that the Lord is good; blessed is the one who takes refuge in him” (Psalm 34:8 NIVUK).

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Author: Ib Meyer
Volume 105, Number 4
Issue: April 2018

Copyrighted by WELS Forward in Christ © 2021
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Mark 16:19

2018/04/30/in Mobile, Verse of the Day

After the Lord Jesus had spoken to them, he was taken up into heaven and he sat at the right hand of God.

All Scripture quotations, unless otherwise indicated, are taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV®. Copyright ©1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc.™ Used by permission of Zondervan. All rights reserved worldwide.

3 John 1:4

2018/04/29/in Mobile, Verse of the Day

I have no greater joy than to hear that my children are walking in the truth.

All Scripture quotations, unless otherwise indicated, are taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV®. Copyright ©1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc.™ Used by permission of Zondervan. All rights reserved worldwide.

1 Timothy 6:10

2018/04/28/in Mobile, Verse of the Day

For the love of money is a root of all kinds of evil. Some people, eager for money, have wandered from the faith and pierced themselves with many griefs.

All Scripture quotations, unless otherwise indicated, are taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV®. Copyright ©1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc.™ Used by permission of Zondervan. All rights reserved worldwide.

John 5:21

2018/04/27/in Mobile, Verse of the Day

For just as the Father raises the dead and gives them life, even so the Son gives life to whom he is pleased to give it.

All Scripture quotations, unless otherwise indicated, are taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV®. Copyright ©1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc.™ Used by permission of Zondervan. All rights reserved worldwide.

It’s About Saving Souls

2018/04/26/in Home Missions, Missions Blog, WELS Blogs

Terri lives right across the street from our church… Literally. She can look out her front door and see our towering steeples. God knew what he was doing when he put Terri right next to our church.

Terri works with one of our members at the hospital in town, and her ex-husband worked for many years with another one of our members. God purposely brought our church members into Terri’s life. For a couple of years, Terri was thinking, “I should check out that church sometime.” One Sunday, invited by her co-worker from the hospital, Terri came to worship. She heard God’s word and was welcomed by our members. Terri started Bible 101 and came to see, “I can be sure I’m going to heaven because Jesus lived. Jesus died. Jesus rose.” Terri confessed, “I didn’t have peace before. Now I have peace because of Jesus.” She has new purpose in life. “I have a renewed joy in my work as a nurse. I know I’m working for God.”

How cool is that!

This is why we have a church. It’s about saving souls.

Terri’s House – Right across the street from church

There is even more backstory to what God has been doing in Monroe, working to save Terri’s soul. The church across the street from Terri’s house almost closed. It was for sale for over a year, membership was dwindling, and the pastor was set to retire. It didn’t look like the church would remain open, but another congregation was aware of the situation. There were discussions about working together. The two churches decided to go all in on working together and become one congregation, with one name and one pastor. Not only did the church across the street from Terri’s house stay open, the church across the street is growing. Members are inviting family and friends. Former members of the church have returned. Best of all, souls like Terri are hearing God’s Word, finding peace for eternal life and purpose in life right now.

This concept of being one church in multiple locations is relatively new in our church body. There are many advantages to multi-site congregations. Multi-site ministry can save money as one church can often times operate more efficiently than two. Multi-site ministry can save sacred spaces, like the beautiful, ornate church across the street from Terri. Multi-site ministry can save people time going to a church in their community, rather than driving to a church farther away. But most of all, and greatest of all, multi-site ministry is about saving souls. It’s about saving souls like Terri’s.

Pastor Nathan Strutz serves a multi-site congregation, Resurrection in Verona and Monroe, WI. This multi-site church was formed by a merger of Resurrection, Verona and Mt. Olive, Monroe.

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Midwest Island Missions

2018/04/26/in Home Missions, Missions Blog, WELS Blogs

My righteousness draws near speedily, my salvation is on the way, and my arm will bring justice to the nations. The islands will look to me and wait in hope for my arm.

Isaiah 51:5

In 2010, a Bible class in the Adams-Friendship area, offered by pastors from St. Paul’s in Mauston, led to worship services with a core group of about twenty members or so. Today this second site of St. Paul’s has grown, by God’s grace, into a thriving mission of about 130 souls. We lease an old day care building that is too small to meet all our needs, and yet people keep coming back, and the Word continues to be proclaimed. St. Paul’s in Mauston, which pioneered this mission and still partners with it as one congregation in two locations, has been working hard with the members in Adams-Friendship to fund ministry, a full time mission pastor, and even a new church building. Many congregations throughout the state have also contributed to a building fund so that work can continue to move forward, and God-willing expand as we move into a larger and more versatile facility in the near future.

St. Paul’s Lutheran Church – Mauston, WI

When I received the call to serve as mission pastor to St. Paul’s in Adams-Friendship, I was curious to know what a relatively new mission startup was doing smack dab in the middle of what I had always assumed was a very churched (and very WELSy) part of our country. I was surprised to learn that in Adams County, in the heart of Wisconsin, only about 15-20 percent of the population claimed any connection to a church. On top of this, St. Paul’s was the only WELS congregation located in Adams County. St. Paul’s in Mauston saw the chance to share Jesus with this “island” of unchurched people in the heart of the Midwest, and as I considered the call I began to see what a wonderful opportunity this was to reach the lost.

Two months have passed since I arrived, and the opportunities I was told about were not exaggerations. I’ve shared the freedom of the gospel with people battling drug and alcohol dependency. I’ve spoken with jail inmates and former inmates about the cycle of sin and God’s solution in Christ. I’ve witnessed baptisms in a garage, heard testimony from men and women recovering from abuse and broken families, and I’ve seen kids discover a very different message than what they hear all around them. There are people in Adams County struggling with broken families, addiction, financial hardship, depression, anger, and loss. And amidst this sea of grief and pain, St. Paul’s stands ready to share eternal hope and a temporal change in perspective through the saving gospel of Jesus Christ.

Pastor Jasper Sellnow and his family

This rural mission is a reminder that God’s Word still has much work to do in the heartland, even in places we might normally overlook. Congregations can identify the needs of the communities around them and perhaps discover untapped mission fields right in their backyard (or neighboring county). And as St. Paul’s in Mauston discovered, you can sacrifice a little so that even without full Synod mission funding, new churches can be planted and God’s Word can be shared. The lost and hurting are all around us, even on the “islands” in the Midwest. God grant us wisdom and love as we share the hope we have in Jesus.

Rev. Jasper Sellnow lives in Friendship, WI with his wife, Sarah, and their five children. He serves St. Paul’s Mauston & Adams-Friendship, working primarily as the mission pastor in Adams County.

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Matthew 24:30

2018/04/26/in Mobile, Verse of the Day

“At that time the sign of the Son of Man will appear in the sky, and all the peoples of the earth will mourn. They will see the Son of Man coming on the clouds of heaven, with power and great glory.”

All Scripture quotations, unless otherwise indicated, are taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV®. Copyright ©1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc.™ Used by permission of Zondervan. All rights reserved worldwide.

Psalms 51:10

2018/04/25/in Mobile, Verse of the Day

Create in me a pure heart, O God, and renew a steadfast spirit within me.

All Scripture quotations, unless otherwise indicated, are taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV®. Copyright ©1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc.™ Used by permission of Zondervan. All rights reserved worldwide.

Matthew 19:26

2018/04/24/in Mobile, Verse of the Day

Jesus looked at them and said, “With human beings this is impossible, but with God all things are possible.”

All Scripture quotations, unless otherwise indicated, are taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV®. Copyright ©1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc.™ Used by permission of Zondervan. All rights reserved worldwide.

Call Report – April 23, 2018

2018/04/23/in Call Reports

Wisconsin Evangelical Lutheran Synod

Pastor, teacher, and staff minister call report

4/17/2018 – 4/23/2018

The call report details when pastors, teachers, and staff ministers change positions within WELS. The Conference of Presidents oversees and coordinates the calling process.

NO DECISION REPORTED

Pastors	Current call	New call	Date issued
Rev Charles Learman	Retired	Shepherd of the Hills LC Fredericksburg TX Pastor	3/18/2018
Rev Jeffrey Grundmeier	Our Saviour’s LC Cedarville MI Immanuel LC Sault Sainte Marie MI	Zion LC Greenleaf WI Associate Pastor	3/19/2018
Rev Andrew Ewald	St John LC Clare MI Faith LC Harrison MI	Emanuel First LC Lansing MI Associate Pastor	3/20/2018
Rev Daniel Lindner	St John’s LC Minneapolis MN	Good Shepherd LC Omaha NE Pastor	4/5/2018
Rev Peter Korthals	St Paul LC & Beautiful Savior LC Amherst NH	St Paul LC Wisconsin Rapids WI Associate Pastor	4/5/2018
Rev Michael Otterstatter	Martin Luther College New Ulm MN	Trinity LC El Paso TX Pastor	4/5/2018
Rev Eric Roecker	Pilgrim LC Menomonee Falls WI	Conference of Presidents Waukesha WI Director of Evangelism	4/6/2018
Rev Dennis Reichow	St John LC Glencoe MN	Zion LC Olivia MN Pastor	4/8/2018
Rev Greg Pufahl	Centennial LC Milwaukee WI	Calvary LC Sheboygan WI Pastor	4/8/2018
Rev Robert Balza	Retired	Mt Calvary LC Menasha WI Associate Pastor; Retirement Call	4/8/2018
Rev Craig Engel	Immanuel LC Willmar MN	St Matthew’s LC Niles IL Pastor	4/8/2018
Rev Peter Sulzle	St John LC Redwood Falls MN	Good Shepherd’s LC West Allis WI Associate Pastor	4/8/2018
Rev Bradley Taylor	Prince of Peace LC Flower Mound TX	Peace LC Kokomo IN Pastor	4/8/2018
Rev Kevin Wattles	Grace LC Falls Church VA	Bethlehem LC Menomonee Falls WI Associate Pastor	4/8/2018
Rev Christian Christenson	First LC La Crescent MN	Christ LC Cambridge MN Pastor	4/8/2018
Rev Jason Hacker	Grace LC Waukesha WI	St John LC Watertown WI Associate Pastor	4/8/2018
Rev Jud Krohn	Zion LC Oshkosh WI Grace LC Pickett WI	Christ LC Juneau AK Pastor	4/8/2018
Rev Matthew Kuske	St Paul LC Lomira WI	Christ LC Merrill WI Pastor	4/8/2018
Rev Ralph Rosenberg	Bethlehem LC Hortonville WI	Zion LC Rhinelander WI Associate Pastor	4/10/2018
Rev Paul Horn	Mighty Fortress LC Hiram GA	Trinity LC Grafton NE Grace LC Geneva NE Pastor	4/10/2018
Rev Snowden Sims	St Paul’s LC Columbus OH	Garden Homes LC Milwaukee WI Pastor	4/11/2018
Rev Matthew Hennig	Christ LC North St Paul & Hugo MN	Atonement LC Plano TX Pastor	4/11/2018
Rev Timothy Bourman	Sure Foundation LC Woodside NY	Martin Luther College New Ulm MN Professor; Theology & Foreign Language	4/12/2018
Rev Brian Hackmann	Peace LC Eagle River AK	Water of Life LC Las Vegas NV Pastor	4/12/2018
Rev Matthew Hennig	Christ LC North St Paul & Hugo MN	Grace LC Vail AZ & Benson AZ Associate Pastor	4/15/2018
Rev Daniel Naumann	Grace LC Prairie du Chien WI	Nebraska Evangelical Lutheran High School Waco NE Pastor	4/15/2018
Rev Bradley Snyder	Mt Olive LC Suamico WI	Resurrection LC Verona WI & Monroe WI Associate Pastor	4/15/2018
Prof Jeffrey Schone	Martin Luther College New Ulm MN	New Hope LC West Melbourne FL Pastor	4/15/2018
Rev James Enderle	East Asia	Immanuel LC South Lyon MI Pastor	4/15/2018
Prof Paul Koelpin	Martin Luther College New Ulm MN	St Paul LC Saginaw MI Associate Pastor	4/16/2018
Rev Jonathan Fischer	Resurrection LC Chesapeake VA	Riverview LC Appleton WI Associate Pastor	4/18/2018
Rev Jonathan Fischer	Resurrection LC Chesapeake VA	Good Shepherd LC Sioux Falls SD Associate Pastor	4/18/2018
Rev Mark Gefaller	Immanuel LC Fort Worth TX	St Paul LC North Platte NE St Paul’s LC Broken Bow NE Pastor	4/18/2018
Rev Stephen Wiesenauer	CRM	East Asia Pastor	4/18/2018
Rev James Strand	St Paul LC Bloomer WI	St Mark LC Bemidji MN Pastor	4/19/2018
Rev Scott Wolfram	Divine Word LC Plover WI	Grace LC Tecumseh MI Pastor	4/19/2018
Teachers	Current call	New call	Date issued
Ms Hannah Stellick	Divine Savior Lutheran Academy Doral FL	St Marcus LS Milwaukee WI Lead Teacher; Grade 4	3/5/2018
Mrs Naomi Porth	St Philip LS Milwaukee WI	Pilgrim LS Menomonee Falls WI Teacher; Grades 1-2, Half-Time Call	3/11/2018
Mrs Kristin Sternhagen		Rocky Mountain Lutheran High School Commerce City CO Teacher; Part-Time Call	3/11/2018
Mr David Leonard	Friedens LS Kenosha WI	Friedens LS Kenosha WI Principal; One-Year Call	3/18/2018
Mr David Zank	Friedens LS Kenosha WI	Friedens LS Kenosha WI Teacher; Vice Principal, One-Year Call	3/18/2018
Mrs Alyssa Warnke		Divine Savior Lutheran Academy Doral FL ECM Teacher	3/25/2018
Miss Rachel Nowicki	Prairie LS Lower Site Gibbon MN	Good Shepherd Lutheran Academy Deltona FL Teacher; Grade 4	3/25/2018
Miss Kristine Krug	St Paul LS Beverly Hills FL	Zion LS Chesaning MI Teacher; Grades 2-4	3/25/2018
Mr David Mielke	St Croix Lutheran Academy West Saint Paul MN	Lakeside Lutheran High School Lake Mills WI Teacher; Science	3/28/2018
Mr Justin Vanderhoof	Martin Luther LS Neenah WI	Lakeside Lutheran High School Lake Mills WI Teacher; English & Social Studies	3/28/2018
Mr Timothy Raddatz	St John LS Wrightstown WI	Trinity LS Marinette WI Principal & Grades 5-8	3/28/2018
Mr Kaleb Buch	St Luke LS Oakfield WI	Wisconsin Lutheran High School Milwaukee WI Teacher & Coach	3/29/2018
Mr Kyle Swogger	Trinity LS Brillion WI	St Mark LS Lincoln NE Principal & Grades 5-8	4/3/2018
Mr Joshua Kramer	Good Shepherd LS West Bend WI	Trinity LS Belle Plaine MN Teacher; Grades 5-6	4/4/2018
Miss Jennifer Keller	Little Lambs of Peace Preschool Eagle River AK	Sienna Lutheran Academy Missouri City TX Teacher; Kindergarten	4/5/2018
Mrs Joanna Amborn	St Lucas LS Milwaukee WI	Trinity LS Brillion WI Teacher; Grade 3-4	4/5/2018
Mr Michael Albrecht	Christ Alone LS Thiensville WI	Minnesota Valley Lutheran High School New Ulm MN Teacher; English	4/5/2018
Mr Ryan Stangl	Michigan Lutheran High School Saint Joseph MI	Luther High School Onalaska WI Teacher; Band	4/5/2018
Mr Bradley Nehls	Minnesota Valley Lutheran High School New Ulm MN	Manitowoc Lutheran High School Manitowoc WI Teacher; Math	4/5/2018
Miss Rebecca Rixe	Crown of Life Christian Academy Fort Myers FL	Bethlehem LS-North Germantown WI ECM Director	4/8/2018
Miss Shawna Mehlberg	Divine Savior Lutheran Academy Doral FL	Shepherd of the Hills Lutheran Preschool Las Vegas NV ECM Director	4/8/2018
Mrs Marie Becker	St Paul LS Franklin WI	Zion LS Columbus WI Teacher; Grades 5-6	4/8/2018
Miss Christine Swoboda	Shepherd LS Albuquerque NM	Grace LS Glendale AZ Teacher; Kindergarten	4/8/2018
Ms Kris Eggers	David’s Star LS Jackson WI	Mt Calvary LS Waukesha WI Teacher; Grade 4	4/8/2018
Mr Timothy Mueller Jr	Star of Bethlehem LS New Berlin WI	St Mark LS Citrus Heights CA Principal	4/8/2018
Miss Vicki Humann	Zion LS Rhinelander WI	St Paul LS Rapid City SD Teacher; Kindergarten	4/8/2018
Mr Justin Ohm	Crown of Life LS West Saint Paul MN	St Paul LS Howards Grove WI Teacher; Grades 5-6	4/8/2018
Mr Paul Frisque	St Jacobi LS Greenfield WI	Peace LS Sun Prairie WI Teacher; Grade 6	4/8/2018
Mr Benjamin Pagel	Peridot-Our Savior’s LS Peridot AZ	Emmaus LS Phoenix AZ Teacher; Grades 5-6	4/8/2018
Mr Scott Luepke		Resurrection LS Rochester MN Teacher; Grade 3, Provisional Call	4/8/2018
Miss Nicole Roper	Small Steps Christian Learning Center Port Orange FL	Zion Lutheran Preschool Valentine NE ECM Director	4/8/2018
Prof Jennifer Mehlberg	Martin Luther College New Ulm MN	Victory Preschool Jacksonville FL Director	4/8/2018
Mrs Danielle Powers	New Hope Lutheran Academy West Melbourne FL	St Paul LS Green Bay WI Teacher; Grades 7-8 & Special Education	4/8/2018
Mrs Bethany Hilgendorf		St Bartholomew LS Kawkawlin MI Teacher; Kindergarten	4/8/2018
Mrs Kate Krieger		Siloah LS Milwaukee WI Teacher; Grade 6	4/8/2018
Mr Timothy Hochmuth	Good Shepherd’s LS West Allis WI	Zion LS Valentine NE Principal & Upper Grades	4/8/2018
Mrs Jessica Hochmuth		Zion LS Valentine NE Teacher; Lower Grades	4/8/2018
Mr Craig Breitkreutz	St John LS Baraboo WI	Faith LS Antioch IL Principal & Upper Grades; Departmentalized	4/8/2018
Mrs Jamie Learman		St John LS Lomira WI ECM Teacher; Part-Time, Provisional Call	4/8/2018
Mrs Kristin Nelson		St Paul LS Green Bay WI ECM Teacher; Half-Time, Provisional Call	4/8/2018
Mrs Gretel Kiecker	St John LS Lomira WI	St John LS Lomira WI Teacher; Grades 1-2, Provisional Call	4/8/2018
Mrs Johanna Manke	St John LS Lomira WI	St John LS Lomira WI Teacher; Administrative Release-Time & Music, Part-Time, Provisional Call	4/8/2018
Mrs Linda Noack	Salem LS Stillwater MN	Grace for Kids Lutheran Preschool Osceola WI ECM Teacher; Half-Time Call	4/8/2018
Ms Justine Smith	Peace LS Kissimmee FL	Good Shepherd LS Downers Grove IL Teacher; Kindergarten	4/9/2018
Miss Tabitha Mays	Ascension Lutheran Preschool Plymouth MN	St Mark Little Lions Preschool Salina KS ECM Director	4/9/2018
Mrs Kate Krieger		Christ-St Peter LS-West Campus Milwaukee WI Teacher; Grade 7	4/9/2018
Mr Joshua Lepke	St Marcus LS Milwaukee WI	St Paul LS Muskego WI Teacher	4/10/2018
Mrs Jaymie De Frain	St Mark’s LS Watertown WI	Prince of Peace LS Taylorsville UT Teacher; Grades 1-2	4/10/2018
Mr Casey De Frain	St Mark’s LS Watertown WI	Prince of Peace LS Taylorsville UT Teacher; Grades 3-5	4/10/2018
Mr Daniel Johnson	Mt Lebanon LS-Omega Campus Gr 5-8 Milwaukee WI	St Paul LS Columbus OH Teacher; Grades 5-6	4/10/2018
Miss Jeanine Heller	Martin Luther LS Plzen Czech Republic	St Paul LS Columbus OH Teacher; Kindergarten	4/10/2018
Mr Richard Muchka	Morrison Zion LS Greenleaf WI	Divine Savior Lutheran Academy Doral FL Teacher; High School Math	4/10/2018
Mrs Katie Muchka	Morrison Zion LS Greenleaf WI	Divine Savior Lutheran Academy Doral FL Teacher; Grade 1	4/10/2018
Miss Aimee Hardman	Northdale LS Tampa FL	Divine Savior Lutheran Academy Doral FL Teacher; Grade 3	4/10/2018
Dr Rhoda Wolle	Wisconsin Lutheran College Milwaukee WI	Divine Savior Lutheran Academy Doral FL Teacher; School Counselor	4/10/2018
Miss Jessica Martinez	St Philip LS Milwaukee WI	St Paul LS Columbus OH Teacher; Grades 3-4	4/10/2018
Mr Philip Punzel	St Peter LS Appleton WI	Garden Homes LS Milwaukee WI Principal	4/11/2018
Miss Sharon Fickau	Zion LS 3K-8th Grade Hartland WI	St John LS Redwood Falls MN Teacher; Grade 1	4/11/2018
Mr Jonathan Biedenbender	Mt Calvary-Grace LS La Crosse WI	St Paul LS Fort Atkinson WI Principal & Grades 5-8; Departmentalized	4/11/2018
Mr Zachary Biebert	St Paul LS Beverly Hills FL	St Mark LS Green Bay WI Teacher; Grade 7	4/11/2018
Miss MyKayla Jensen	First LS La Crosse WI	St John LS Redwood Falls MN Teacher; Grade 2	4/11/2018
Mrs Nicole Steenbock		St Mark LS Green Bay WI Teacher; Grade 5, One-Year Call	4/11/2018
Mr Peter Buege	King of Kings LS Garden Grove CA	First German LS Manitowoc WI Principal and Grades 7-8	4/12/2018
Mrs Kelli Liesener		Martin Luther College New Ulm MN Professor; Special Education	4/12/2018
Mr Jeffrey Wetzel	St Paul LS Muskego WI	Atonement LS Milwaukee WI Teacher; Dean of Students	4/15/2018
Mrs Elizabeth Hagedorn	Good Shepherd LS West Bend WI	Trinity LS West Bend WI ECM Teacher	4/15/2018
Mrs Christine Leathers	Trinity LS Kiel WI	Little Lambs Learning Center Duluth MN ECM Director	4/15/2018
Mr David Retzlaff	Good Shepherd LS Burnsville MN	St Martin’s LS Watertown SD Principal & Grades 6-8; Departmentalized	4/15/2018
Mrs Michelle Roth	Zion LS Monroe MI	Zion LS Monroe MI Teacher; Grades 1-2	4/15/2018
Miss Lisa McKenney	Little Lambs Preschool Fort Collins CO	Mt Olive LS Overland Park KS ECM Director	4/15/2018
Miss Kim Gnewuch	Westside Christian School Middleton WI	Mt Calvary LS Waukesha WI Teacher; Grade 2	4/15/2018
Mrs Nicole Habeck		Faith LS Tacoma WA ECM Director; Provisional Call	4/15/2018
Mr Ryan Rosenthal	Faith LS Fond du Lac WI	St John’s LS Jefferson WI Teacher; Grades 7-8	4/15/2018
Mr David Backus	St John LS Manitowoc WI	St Lucas LS Kewaskum WI Principal & Grades 5-6	4/15/2018
Mr Andrew Dais	St Paul LS Lake Mills WI	Faith LS Tacoma WA Teacher; Grades 5-6	4/15/2018
Mr Matthew Augustine	Zion LS Chesaning MI	Trinity LC Hoskins NE Principal & Upper Grades	4/15/2018
Miss Katelyn Zeamer	Atonement Early Childhood Center Milwaukee WI	Atonement LS Milwaukee WI ECM Teacher; Provisional Call	4/15/2018
Miss Edye Hilgendorf	Atonement LS Milwaukee WI	Atonement LS Milwaukee WI ECM Teacher; Provisional Call	4/15/2018
Ms Stephanie Kudek	Atonement LS Milwaukee WI	Atonement LS Milwaukee WI Teacher; Grade 2, Provisional Call	4/15/2018
Ms Kate Jaeger	Atonement LS Milwaukee WI	Atonement LS Milwaukee WI Teacher; Grade 3, Provisional Call	4/15/2018
Mr Shaun Stannard	Atonement LS Milwaukee WI	Atonement LS Milwaukee WI Teacher; Middle School Math, Provisional Call	4/15/2018
Miss Rachel Johnson	Atonement LS Milwaukee WI	Atonement LS Milwaukee WI Teacher; Physical Education, Provisional Call	4/15/2018
Mr Aaron Bauer	Garden Homes LS Milwaukee WI	Kettle Moraine Lutheran High School Jackson WI Teacher; Physical Education	4/16/2018
Mrs Trudy Tietz	St Paul LS Brownsville WI	Faith LS Fond du Lac WI Teacher; Grade 3	4/16/2018
Mr Justin Wiechmann	St Matthew’s LS Oconomowoc WI	St Peter LS Schofield WI Teacher; Grades 5-6	4/16/2018
Ms Beth Hauf	Bethany LS Manitowoc WI	Bethlehem LS-North Germantown WI Teacher; Grade 1	4/17/2018
Mr James Brandt	Wisconsin Lutheran College Milwaukee WI	North Shore Christian Academy Milwaukee WI Principal	4/17/2018
Mrs Krista Rydecki	Trinity LS Waukesha WI	Peace LS Hartford WI Teacher; Grade 2	4/18/2018
Mrs Kimberly Youngerberg		Jesus Loves Me Learning Center North Mankato MN ECM Teacher	4/18/2018
Mrs Stephanie Treder	Apostles LS San Jose CA	St John’s LS Jefferson WI ECM Director	4/18/2018
Mrs Melanie Giddings	FVL Schools Inc Appleton WI	FVL Schools Inc Appleton WI Teacher; Curriculum Coordinator	4/19/2018
Mrs Rebecca Crowe		Green Valley Lutheran Preschool & Kindergarten Henderson NV Teacher; Kindergarten, Provisional Call	4/22/2018
Mrs Carol Tetzlaff	St Mark’s LS Watertown WI	St Paul LS Ixonia WI ECM Director; Half-Time Call	4/22/2018
Mr Benjamin Rank	Eastside LS Madison WI	Trinity LS Neenah WI Principal & Grades 7-8	4/22/2018
Mr Matthew Schreiber	Immanuel LS La Crosse WI	St John LS Manitowoc WI Teacher; Middle Grades & Extended Learning	4/22/2018
Miss Elaina Mercier		Faith of a Child Daycare Oshkosh WI ECM Director	4/22/2018
Staff Ministers	Current call	New call	Date issued
Mr Stephen Pankow	St Paul’s First LC North Hollywood CA	Little Lambs Learning Center Danube MN ECM Director	4/12/2018
Mr Galen Holzhueter	Martin Luther College New Ulm MN	Pilgrim LC Minneapolis MN Development Director	4/22/2018

CALLS ACCEPTED

Pastors	Current call	New call	Date accepted
Rev Justin Cloute	Living Savior LC Missoula MT	St Luke LC Watertown WI Associate Pastor	4/22/2018
Teachers	Current call	New call	Date accepted
Dr Eric Brucker	Rocky Mountain Lutheran High School Commerce City CO	Rocky Mountain Lutheran High School Commerce City CO Teacher; Part-Time Call	3/11/2018
Mr Ryan Oertel		Wisconsin Lutheran College Milwaukee WI Vice President; Student Life, Provisional Call	4/6/2018
Mr Shawn Sprewer		Kingdom Prep LHS Milwaukee WI Administrator; Provisional Call	4/16/2018
Miss Karen Luehring	Apostles LS San Jose CA	Shepherd of the Valley LS Westminster CO Teacher; Kindergarten-Grade 2	4/16/2018
Mr Daniel Schultz	Huron Valley Lutheran High School Westland MI	Bloomington LS Bloomington MN Teacher; Grade 7	4/17/2018
Mrs Monica Schultz	St John LS Westland MI	Bloomington LS Bloomington MN Teacher; Grade 5	4/17/2018
Ms Deborah Heiderich	The Genesis Academy Houston TX	St John LS Maribel WI ECM Director	4/17/2018
Mr David Habeck	Trinity LS Caledonia WI	Evergreen Lutheran High School Tacoma WA Teacher; One-Year, Retirement Call	4/18/2018
Mrs Dyann Nommensen	Word of Life LS Milwaukee WI	St Paul LS Cudahy WI Teacher; K5	4/18/2018
Mrs Erin Achey	Zion LS Egg Harbor WI	St John LS Lake City MN Teacher; Grades 1-2	4/18/2018
Mrs Amanda Glodowski	St John LC Milwaukee WI	St John LS Milwaukee WI Teacher; Kindergarten	4/19/2018
Mrs Megan Schaffer	St John LS Westland MI	St John LS Mukwonago WI ECM Director	4/19/2018
Mrs Susan Pieper		Martin Luther LS Oshkosh WI Teacher; Grades 1-2	4/20/2018
Mrs Renee Jensen	Zion LS Valentine NE	Bethany LS Hustisford WI ECM Director	4/20/2018
Prof David Lecker	Michigan Lutheran Seminary Saginaw MI	Redeemer LS Fond du Lac WI Principal & Grades 7-8	4/21/2018
Mrs Jennifer Uher	Mt Calvary LS Waukesha WI	Minnesota Valley Lutheran High School New Ulm MN Teacher; Science	4/21/2018
Mrs Julie Zabell	St Paul LS Green Bay WI	St Paul LS Green Bay WI ECM Director; Half-Time Call	4/21/2018
Miss Emily Gorzalski	Loving Shepherd LS Milwaukee WI	St Lucas LS Milwaukee WI Teacher; Grade 4	4/21/2018
Mrs Amy Sievert		St John LS Watertown WI Teacher; Grade 1	4/22/2018
Mr Philip Adickes	Zion LS Denver CO	Illinois Lutheran High School Crete IL Teacher; Dean of Students	4/22/2018
Miss Ju Yeon Moon	Beautiful Savior LS Grove City OH	Jerusalem LS Morton Grove IL Teacher	4/22/2018
Mrs Tammy Smukowski		St Paul LS Cudahy WI Teacher; K4	4/22/2018

CALLS DECLINED

Pastors	Current call	New call	Date declined
Rev Dustin Blumer	Amazing Love LC Frankfort IL	Abiding Peace LC Simpsonville SC Associate Pastor	4/17/2018
Rev Stephen Schmiel	Faith Evangelical LC Prior Lake MN	St John LC Summit SD Pastor	4/17/2018
Rev Paul Schmiege	King of Kings LC Willoughby OH	Hope LC Portland MI Pastor; Retirement Call	4/18/2018
Prof John Boeder	Martin Luther College New Ulm MN	Conference of Presidents Christian Giving Counselor	4/20/2018
Rev David Pagel	Bethany LC Kenosha WI	Mt Olive LC Suamico WI Associate Pastor	4/21/2018
Teachers	Current call	New call	Date declined
Mr Nicholas Raith	Grace LC Saint Joseph MI	St John LS Libertyville IL Teacher; Grades 7-8	4/11/2018
Miss Katie Koch	Atonement LS Milwaukee WI	St John LS Libertyville IL Teacher; Grades 1-2	4/14/2018
Miss Sarah Howell	Small Steps Christian Learning Center Port Orange FL	Cross of Christ LS Coon Rapids MN ECM Director	4/16/2018
Ms Deborah Heiderich	The Genesis Academy Houston TX	St Paul LS Wisconsin Rapids WI ECM Director	4/17/2018
Miss Anne Hagglund	Resurrection LS Rochester MN	St Marcus LS Milwaukee WI Co-Lead Teacher; Grade 5	4/17/2018
Mr Bradley Nommensen	St Paul LS Cudahy WI	Christ Alone LS Thiensville WI Teacher; Grades 3-8, Departmentalized	4/18/2018
Mr Kevin Lemke	Trinity LS Bangor MI	Immanuel LS Salem OR Teacher; Grades 6-8	4/18/2018
Mr Bradley Evers	Martin Luther LS Oshkosh WI	Apostles LS San Jose CA Teacher; Grade 4	4/18/2018
Mr Guy Gast	Immanuel LS Manitowoc WI	Trinity LS Waukesha WI Teacher Grade 7	4/19/2018
Mrs Kimberle Steinberg	Good Shepherd Preschool Beaver Dam WI	Cross of Glory Lutheran Preschool Peoria AZ ECM Director	4/19/2018
Mrs Jennifer Hennen	Wisconsin Lutheran High School Milwaukee WI	Risen Savior LS Milwaukee WI Teacher; Grade 5	4/19/2018
Mr Brent Sorn	Parkland LS Tacoma WA	Mt Olive LS Mankato MN Principal	4/19/2018
Mrs Renee Jensen	Zion LS Valentine NE	Risen Savior LS Milwaukee WI ECM Teacher	4/19/2018
Miss Elaina Mercier		Grace LS Oshkosh WI ECM Teacher	4/19/2018
Mrs Rachel Helwig	Crown of Life LS Hubertus WI	Trinity-St Luke Western Ave Campus Watertown WI ECM Teacher; Half-Time Call	4/20/2018
Mr Joel Burmeister	St Croix Lutheran Academy West Saint Paul MN	Nebraska Evangelical Lutheran High School Waco NE Teacher; Math	4/20/2018
Mrs Kris Ruth	Huron Valley Lutheran High School Westland MI	Luther High School Onalaska WI Teacher; Physical Education	4/20/2018
Miss Martha Lau	Trinity LS Caledonia WI	East Fork Lutheran High School Whiteriver AZ Teacher & Coach	4/20/2018
Mr Aaron Hartwig	St Paul LS North Fond du Lac WI	Shepherd of the Valley LS Westminster CO Principal & Grades 6-8	4/21/2018
Mrs Amy Sievert		St Matthew’s LS Oconomowoc WI Teacher; Grade 5	4/22/2018
Mr Clark Dittbenner	St John’s LS Two Rivers WI	Sienna Lutheran Academy Missouri City TX Teacher; Grade 5	4/22/2018
Mrs Lesley Kaesermann	St Paul LS Arlington MN	St John LS Montello WI Teacher; Kindergarten-Grade 1	4/22/2018
Mr Eric Kaesermann	St Paul LS Arlington MN	St John LS Montello WI Principal & Upper Grades	4/22/2018
Mr Brian Papenfuss	St John LS Lomira WI	Zion LS South Milwaukee WI Teacher; Grades 6-7	4/22/2018
Mrs Andrea Hunter	Multi-Language Publications El Paso TX	Shepherd of the Valley LS Menasha WI Teacher; Grades 7-8, Part-Time, Provisional Call	4/22/2018

CALLED TO ETERNAL GLORY

Pastors	Home church	Death date
Rev Frederick Casmer	Paradise Valley LC Phoenix AZ	4/19/2018

RETIREMENT

Pastors	Current call	Date retired
Rev David Laabs	Trinity LC Kiel WI	8/31/2018

VIEW CALL REPORT PDF

View a downloadable pdf version of the call report.

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Revelation 2:10

2018/04/23/in Mobile, Verse of the Day

Do not be afraid of what you are about to suffer. I tell you, the devil will put some of you in prison to test you, and you will suffer persecution for ten days. Be faithful, even to the point of death, and I will give you life as your victor’s crown.

All Scripture quotations, unless otherwise indicated, are taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV®. Copyright ©1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc.™ Used by permission of Zondervan. All rights reserved worldwide.

1 Timothy 1:15

2018/04/22/in Mobile, Verse of the Day

Here is a trustworthy saying that deserves full acceptance: Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners – of whom I am the worst.

All Scripture quotations, unless otherwise indicated, are taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV®. Copyright ©1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc.™ Used by permission of Zondervan. All rights reserved worldwide.

Isaiah 6:7

2018/04/21/in Mobile, Verse of the Day

With it he touched my mouth and said, “See, this has touched your lips; your guilt is taken away and your sin atoned for.”

All Scripture quotations, unless otherwise indicated, are taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV®. Copyright ©1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc.™ Used by permission of Zondervan. All rights reserved worldwide.

New Home Mission Projects Approved

2018/04/20/in Missions Update news, Newsletter

On April 13, the Board for Home Missions approved support for seven new mission congregations as well as support to enhance mission-minded ministry at seven other congregations.

The ministries receiving financial support for a new mission include:

Reno, Nev. – Two area congregations are partnering to start this congregation in the Northern Valleys area of greater Reno. On March 25, the first worship service was held; 63 people attended
Phoenix, Ariz. – Crosswalk, Phoenix, is opening a second site to reach out into downtown Phoenix.
Joplin, Mo. – A strong core of WELS and Evangelical Lutheran Synod members from the two nearest churches are helping support this mission.
Core Group from Joplin, MO
Brandon, S.D. – Near Sioux Falls, this new congregation includes core members from two WELS churches and an Evangelical Lutheran Synod congregation.
Milwaukee, Wis. – Grace in downtown Milwaukee, one of WELS’ original congregations, is establishing a new location in the area known as the Third Ward.

Two new multi-site starts were approved to receive unsubsidized mission status. Home Missions will provide assistance through its district mission boards, mission counselors, and synodical support staff, but the original congregations will provide 100 percent of the funding needed. These include:

Hobart, Wis. – Mount Olive, Suamico, Wis., is starting a second site in Hobart. The congregation is calling a second pastor to begin this new ministry.
Horicon, Wis. – Members of St. John’s, Juneau, Wis., see an opportunity to reach out in nearby Horicon, where 90 members of St. John’s live. Saturday worship services are scheduled to begin in Horicon in June.

Wisconsin Lutheran School – operated by First Lutheran and Epiphany in Racine – prepares for worship services.

Home Missions is also financially supporting mission-minded enhancements to these existing congregations:

Crown of Life, Corona, Calif. – This multi-site mission currently has four different locations for worship. Home Mission funding will support a third pastor.
Faith, Anchorage, Alaska – A second bilingual pastor will allow Faith to enhance their Hispanic ministry.
Grace, Seattle, Wash. – Two congregations will be combining to restart their ministry in the heart of Seattle. Funding will allow a full-time pastor to again serve at Grace.
Ascension, Harrisburg, Penn. – Remaining members of Ascension are ready to restart their congregation. They have demonstrated they are willing to take on ministry responsibilities and support outreach efforts that will be guided by their next pastor.
Shepherd of the Hills, Knoxville, Tenn. – A group of members are ready to restart their congregation after a longer-term pastoral vacancy. With the congregation back on its feet, they hope to begin a preschool ministry in order to jump start their outreach efforts.
Trinity in Waukesha, WI holds Bible Information Class with Hispanic community members
Trinity, Waukesha, Wis. – Trinity hopes to reach out to a large population of Hispanics in their community by bringing in a bilingual pastor to lead the ministry.
Epiphany and First, Racine, Wis. – These two Racine congregations currently operate a joint Lutheran Elementary school. Home Mission funding will allow the school to call a staff minister or teacher to coordinate outreach efforts to prospective church families.

Please pray for these new mission starts and enhancements as they reach out to their communities with the live-saving message of the Gospel!

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Church Extension Fund – A Tremendous Blessing to Home Missions

2018/04/20/in Missions Update news, Newsletter

“I don’t think we realize what a tremendous blessing WELS has in the Church Extension Fund (CEF). In talking with a church planting pastor from another denomination about how CEF would help us financially get on our feet, he looked at me for a bit and said, ‘I don’t believe you. I’ve never heard of something that good.’ That told me all I needed to know about what a blessing CEF has been for our mission churches.”

Rev. John Borgwardt, pastor at Living Word Lutheran Church in Waukesha, Wis.

CEF is a valuable partner of Home Missions. CEF provides loans to home mission congregations who are looking to purchase land, build worship facilities, or remodel their current locations. Besides offering loans at affordable rates, they also have a matching grant program that provides additional financial assistance to home mission starts. Since 1993, CEF has provided over $35.3 million in matching dollars to help offset initial costs of home mission mortgages.

On top of the matching grant program, CEF also provides special grants to Home Missions to support additional ministry. This past fiscal year, CEF approved $837,000 in special grants to home missions. Here are a few examples of congregations who are partnering/have partnered with CEF to expand their ministry:

Future site of Living Word Lutheran Church in Waukesha, Wis.

Living Word Lutheran Church – Waukesha, Wis.

Living Word was recently approved for a facility loan and grant from CEF. Church members had also utilized CEF to purchase land across from Waukesha West High School. Through a building loan from CEF, Living Word hopes to create an environment for teenagers and people of all ages to connect with their Savior. Borgwardt says, “CEF has proven a vital partner in our efforts to build our ministry center. Without them we could not be formalizing our work with high school students, Christian Family Solutions, and the greater Waukesha community.” Learn more about this unique ministry by watching this video.

Shepherd of the Hills Lutheran Church – Las Vegas, Nev.

Shepherd of the Hills broke ground on their new worship facility and ministry center in August 2017 after receiving a loan and grant from CEF. A building dedication service has been scheduled for August 19, 2018. To see building progress on their worship facility, check out this aerial video footage of the construction site.

Redemption Lutheran Church – Watertown, N.Y.

Construction on the exterior of Redemption’s new worship facility

Redemption went from worshiping in a Ramada Inn conference room to a completely remodeled ministry center thanks to a loan and matching land and facility grants from CEF. With the Lord’s blessing, Redemption held their Grand Opening Worship Service on September 15, 2017, after construction was complete.

Rev. Keith Free, Home Missions administrator, says, “CEF is a critical partner in our efforts to share the gospel with those who do not know Jesus as their Savior. Their financial backing and expertise allows our home mission congregations to focus on the one thing needful – sharing the message of God’s grace.”

Your investment with WELS Church Extension Fund helps provide financing so home missions and other mission-minded, self-supporting congregations can purchase land and either build or renovate a worship facility. To learn more about investment opportunities, visit wels.net/cef.

CEF Statistics:

$25 million in new loans approved and $1.95 million in matching grants provided to home missions in 2017-2018
Three land site purchases, one existing facility purchase, and four construction loans were approved by CEF for home mission congregations in 2017-2018
Eight home mission congregations dedicated worship facilities in 2017; four home missions have already planned worship facility dedications for 2018
73 percent (152 loans) of CEF’s loan portfolio is for current or previous home mission congregations

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The Lord Blesses Hmong Outreach in Vietnam

2018/04/20/in Missions Update news, Newsletter

It all started when a leader within the Hmong Fellowship Church (HFC) in Vietnam viewed an online sermon by Rev. Bounkeo Lor. The message of pure grace through Jesus Christ was something he had never heard before – and he wanted to learn more. He invited Rev. Lor to come to Vietnam to train himself and others in the truth of the gospel, and the Lord has allowed this opportunity to blossom since.

HFC leaders gather for training in January 2018

With every visit Rev. Lor has made to conduct training in Hanoi, approximately 60 church leaders have attended to learn more about the truths of the Bible. These same 60 leaders have been taking the message back to their congregations, and the gospel message is accomplishing its purpose. The HFC was a church body of 65,000 members when their leader first reached out to WELS. In the years WELS has provided training, the HFC has grown from 65,000 to 100,000 members and formed 53 new churches. Rev. Lor has been called to serve as Hmong Asia Ministry Coordinator, and the Pastoral Studies Institute (PSI) and Multi-Language Publications teams have been brought in to offer support and additional resources for this expanding ministry.

Not only is this church body is growing, but the communist Vietnamese government has also noticed a positive change. The HFC has a strong history of legalism, which had caused conflict as to which rules are God-pleasing and which are not. The message of free grace received from Jesus Christ has replaced their old law-based preaching and leadership styles, and church leadership has stabilized as a result.

HFC leaders take photos of illustrated Bible stories to take back to their congregations

The gospel can work even in the most difficult of circumstances, and sometimes in ways we cannot expect. The Lord has blessed this outreach, and the Vietnamese government has invited WELS to build a theological training facility in the capital city of Hanoi. WELS is currently the only protestant church with official governmental permission to work with the Hmong in Vietnam. WELS Missions representatives will be visiting Hanoi, Vietnam in June to evaluate and explore this opportunity further, and efforts to secure funding for land acquisition, construction costs, and initial operation costs have begun.

In a letter from the HFC to WELS, church leaders wrote:

“We thank you for the WELS training for the past three years. Now, we believe that we have salvation. Without that, today we would still be living in the darkness of Satan. We believe that God already answered our prayers through the WELS.”

As the HFC and WELS work together to establish a theological training facility, the focus remains on the future – the future of their church body, the future pastors and lay leaders that will be trained in confessional Lutheran doctrine, and ultimately the future that awaits them in heaven.

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Africa Updates – Mission Work in Liberia, Unrest in Cameroon

2018/04/20/in Missions Update news, Newsletter

Mission Work in Liberia

Do you call it reaching out? Or reaching back? WELS One Africa Team, made up of WELS missionaries serving in Africa, will soon become involved in the mission trips taking place to Liberia.

These trips had a special start. Over the years, people from Liberia have fled civil wars in their country and found peace and life in the United States. Some have joined our WELS churches where they settled.

Matthew Cephus trains church leaders in Liberia

Starting in 2016, Isaac David – a Liberian immigrant living in Las Vegas, Nev. – began making trips back to Liberia to share the message of God’s love and forgiveness in Jesus Christ. More recently, Matthew Cephus, a Liberian immigrant living in New Hope, Minn., has done the same.

What’s next? In September and November 2018, a couple members from the One Africa Team will join these men and their teams from the United States in training more pastors and leaders on Liberian soil. The plans are made: training will take place for 125 pastors and leaders in September. An additional 40 pastors and leaders will continue their training in November. The numbers of people reached grow from there as these church leaders take God’s precious word back to their churches and communities and share with others.

So whether you call it reaching out to Liberia or reaching back, there is only one place to find lasting peace and security. That is in the hands of God who reached down from heaven with his love and forgiveness found in Jesus Christ.

From Missionary John Hartmann, Outreach Coordinator – One Africa Team

Unrest in Cameroon

Please keep our brothers and sisters in Christ in Cameroon in your prayers.

The English-speaking areas of Cameroon are in conflict with the dominant French-speaking regions, including the government. Some of the national pastors of the Lutheran Church of Cameroon (LCC) and their members are finding themselves running into the bush (country) at night because of fear. There is no denying it – as selfish interests and tempers flare, guns go off and people are losing their lives. The times are troublesome as the devil tries to deter Christians with fear. We remember well how many times our Lord reminded his followers “Do not be afraid” in both Old Testament (2 Kings 6:16, Nehemiah 4:14) and New Testament (Matthew 6:31, 17:7; Mark 6:50; Luke 8:50). We especially pray that God continue to strengthen our brothers and sisters in the LCC.

Missionary Jeff Heitsch preaches at a congregation of the Lutheran Church of Cameroon

Cameroon Missionary Jeff Heitsch and his wife Stephanie, will be leaving Cameroon and be temporarily relocated to the United States due to the internal political unrest in the country. They arrived in Cameroon in October 2017.

Conflict between the English-speaking and French-speaking parts of Cameroon began to intensify about the time of the Heitschs’ arrival, and the security situation has deteriorated significantly since then. By mutual decision of the Heitsches and the WELS World Mission Board, the Heitsches will remain in the United States for the time being. Missionary Dan and Karen Kroll, who also serve on Cameroon, were already planning being back in the United States on furlough until mid-July.

“It’s always a difficult decision to remove a missionary from their field, but it is also important that we keep them safe as well as pray for our brothers and sisters in Cameroon who live in the midst of the strife. We have faith that the Holy Spirit will continue to bless the gospel-sharing work of the national church body, and if it is his will, that one day we will, once again, be able to serve this mission field in person,” says Mr. Sean Young, director of Missions operations.

WELS Missions and the members of the LCC continue on in the assurance that our living and victorious Savior is in control and knows all things. Nothing will happen without his knowledge and approval, and we join with David to say “My times are in your hands” (Psalm 31:15). May we all continue to walk in the confidence and peace of our Risen Lord, no matter where in the world we might be.

Want to stay up-to-date on what is happening with Africa mission work? Subscribe to One Africa Team blogs or follow them on Facebook at fb.com/OneAfricaTeamWELS/.

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Celebrating 125 Years of WELS World Mission Work

2018/04/20/in Missions Update news, Newsletter

“I tell you, now is the time of God’s favor, now is the day of salvation”

2 Corinthians 6:2

“This is the worst time to begin an Indian Mission,” said a veteran missionary to WELS in synod convention as they contemplated their first world mission effort. Seven days later, Native Americans defeated U.S. forces at the Battle of Little Big Horn.

Undeterred, the people of our synod decided that it was the best time to share Jesus with people who did not yet know him. By October 1893, two missionaries boldly went to share the gospel on the Apache reservations of the Arizona Territory.

125 years later, the same fire to reach the lost is now burning in the hearts of our Apache brothers and sisters. It is still the worst time for many Native Americans. On the more than 500 reservations scattered across North America, unemployment, poverty, substance abuse, and violence are a part of too many homes. 95 percent of Native Americans are not Christians and do not have the hope of our Savior.

Apache Christians feel there has never been a better time to share Jesus. Our focus is on equipping Apache Christians for service in God’s kingdom: on the Apache reservations, with other tribes, and through the Internet. As long as the devil is active, there will never be an ideal time to share Jesus. Like our WELS ancestors 125 years ago, we move forward in faith and trust.

Apache Ministry Today

As we look to the next 125 years of ministry, the opportunity is great.

What can you do? You can PRAY! Pray that Native Americans everywhere come to know the hope of salvation that is found in the Holy Scriptures, and not in the words or religious ceremonies of the medicine man. You can TELL your friends and family about the Apache people that are studying to be spiritual church leaders through this mission work. You can GIVE a gift to help support ministries like the three below:

Apache Christian Training School (ACTS)

Apache Christian Training School (ACTS): Apache Christians are asking to be equipped to share Christ’s love. ACTS provides them with training and resources that prepares leaders for all levels of ministries on the reservations. With a solid program already in place, ACTS exists to provide trained workers for the ever-expanding ministries of current congregations. ACTS will also play a key role in the training of workers to share the gospel with other Native American communities.

Lutheran Church of the Open Bible

Lutheran Church of the Open Bible—Whiteriver, Ariz: With approximately 1,000 members, Open Bible is looking to expand its ministry through increased use of trained volunteers and called workers. They will use these trained and equipped Apache Christians to serve as evangelists, deacons, and deaconesses. These trained workers will play a vital role in expanding outreach opportunities, small group study and support groups, addiction recovery ministry, grief counseling, youth ministry, and worship opportunities.

Peridot-Our Savior’s Lutheran School

Peridot-Our Savior’s Lutheran School: With enrollment rising from 75 to 130 in four years and requests for solid, Christian education continuing to roll in, there is a great opportunity for expansion! Additional classrooms, building repairs, faculty, and resources are desperately needed to catch up with enrollment growth. Your gifts will help present-day ministry at the school and support the various projects that will allow Peridot-Our Savior’s to reach more children and their families with the gospel.

Join the Apache Anniversary Celebration!

June 22 in Wisconsin
KI Convention Center, Green Bay, Wis. (Lutheran Women’s Missionary Society convention hotel) – All are invited!
6 to 9 p.m. – Meet Apache brothers and sisters, experience their music, and learn about their history.
RSVP Today!

October 26–28 in Arizona

Oct. 26 – Reservation tours
Oct. 27 – Anniversary celebration in Peridot, Ariz.
11 a.m. to 4 p.m. – Music, crafts, history, food; 4 p.m. – Worship; 5 p.m. – Dinner
Oct. 28 – Celebration worship at all reservation WELS churches

For More Information…

Host an Apache mission festival in 2018 – Request a speaker at wels.net/speaker-request
Visit NativeChristians.org for more information, or contact [email protected]
Like us on Facebook—@NativeChristiansWELS

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WELS CENTER FOR MISSION AND MINISTRY

Living Word Lutheran Church – Waukesha, Wis.

Shepherd of the Hills Lutheran Church – Las Vegas, Nev.

Redemption Lutheran Church – Watertown, N.Y.

CEF Statistics:

Mission Work in Liberia

Unrest in Cameroon

Apache Ministry Today

Join the Apache Anniversary Celebration!

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