April 2018 Archives

Latin America Mission Updates

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

When you think of Academia Cristo, think of Luther’s Catechism. Martin Luther developed his catechism after coming to recognize the extreme lack of basic biblical understanding among church leaders and heads of families. He describes visiting churches in Saxony that didn’t have the Bible or whose leaders had not memorized the 10 commandments and the Lord’s Prayer. A similar lack of basic Christian knowledge is what led to and guides Academia Cristo’s ministry efforts to help more people plant and lead churches that faithfully proclaim God’s Word. WELS Latin America Missions has been busy sharing the good news of Jesus – here are some updates:

New WELS Presence in Puerto Rico

Rev. Larry W. Schlomer has accepted the call to serve for one year as a disaster response coordinator for Puerto Rico. In this role he will work with the national pastors of the Confessional Evangelical Lutheran Church of Puerto Rico to identify and prioritize specific needs, plan construction and repair projects, and coordinate volunteer efforts. He will also help to coordinate continuing theological training for two men whose training was interrupted by Hurricane Maria last fall. Schlomer has already begun efforts to connect interested Latino members of stateside WELS congregations with the outreach and hurricane recovery efforts in Puerto Rico.

Rev. Larry W. Schlomer with his wife Marlene

Besides assisting in disaster response, Schlomer hopes to establish an enduring and close connection between the Puerto Rican church and our Latin America Missions team. These connections will help strengthen fellowship ties and allow for the continued sharing of ministry ideas and encouragement.

Academia Cristo – Training course interest remains high

Latin American woman shares Academia Cristo with her family

There are currently 150 people studying online in the Academia Cristo Catechism level training program. Here are examples of three courses:

The Bible: In The Beginning – In this course, students learn the first Genesis Bible history courses and how to teach them to others using a teaching methodology based on Luther’s simple way to pray.
The Word Grows: Multiplying Disciples – In this evangelism course, students study the lives of Paul and Barnabas, Mark the Evangelist, and early church leaders such as Priscila, Aquila, and Apollos. Those who successfully complete the course are invited to personally connect with a mature Lutheran leader who will be responsible for guiding and mentoring them as they learn to faithfully proclaim God’s Word to others.
Spiritual Identity – In this course, students learn why there are so many different church bodies, the importance of making a clear confession, and connecting with those who make a clear confession while avoiding those who do not.

In addition to online courses, live Academia Cristo face-to-face workshops have been taught in Colorado, Florida, Mexico, Colombia, Paraguay, and Venezuela so far this year.

WELS Missionaries relocating to Ecuador

This summer two missionaries from the One Latin America (1LA) mission team will be moving to Ecuador. This will be the first time WELS will have an active mission presence in the South American country. Rev. Nathan Schulte and Rev. Phil Strackbein have begun making arrangements to make the move. Schulte currently serves in Mexico, and Strackbein serves in Bolivia. Read more wels.net/new-world-mission-start-south-america.

Making Disciples in New Locations

The Apostle Paul was Timothy’s teacher and mentor. He instructed Timothy that he should take “the things you have heard me say in the presence of many witnesses entrust to reliable people who will also be qualified to teach others.” (2 Timothy 2:2) Note the four generations of disciples mentioned here: Paul, Timothy, reliable, qualified people, and others. Academia Cristo seeks to emulate this model – chains of disciples, training others with the goal of planting new churches, and reaching new areas. It maximizes everyday means of communication to make initial connections.

The strongest of these online connections lead to face-to-face visits. So far this year, missionaries have visited Academia Cristo contacts in central and Eastern Mexico, Nicaragua, Costa Rica, Ecuador, Paraguay, and Argentina. Many are studying to become members in our fellowship. There are now 21 men who are being mentored by WELS missionaries and national church leaders. These men are in turn sharing what they’re learning with those they know as they begin gather groups around the Word of God.

Blessings in Colombia

The Lord continues to bless mission efforts of our brothers and sister in the Colombian Lutheran Church. Two of the first churches planted by men who came into contact with the Colombian Church via Academia Cristo are working to move out of homes and into larger facilities. Please pray God continue to bless these new Lutheran churches in Ibagué, Colombia and Isla Margarita, Venezuela.

To learn more about other outreach opportunities the Lord has provided in Latin America, watch the Academia Cristo Spring 2018 Update Video.

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Is Now the Right Time?

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

“Is now the right time? Should we wait? Should we move forward?”

Those were questions circling the minds of God’s people at Risen Savior Lutheran Church in Lakewood Ranch, Fla. – a small mission congregation an hour south of Tampa. In the fall of 2016, as we talked about our building project, we wrestled with the question, “Is now the right time to ﬁnish building God’s house?”

For God’s people in the book of Haggai, they said, “The time has not yet come for the LORD’s house to be built” (Haggai 1:2). But God rebuked them for their backwards priorities, and eventually he gave his people the promise, “I am with you, declares the LORD” (Haggai 1:13). For God’s people in Haggai, now was the time to build God’s house. The LORD was with them!

For God’s people at Risen Savior – as we listened to God’s Word, as we prayerfully contemplated our options, as we discussed it with our District Mission Board – we came to the same conclusion that now is the time! The Lord is with us! We didn’t know exactly what the future would hold, but we knew whatever would come, God would be right there with us.

Grand Opening Festival at Risen Savior

And he certainly was. A Building Committee was formed. An architect, contractor, and engineer were hired. Plans were put into motion, and we could see that the LORD was with us. With the project progressing, the members at Risen Savior next talked about how we could best use this project to God’s glory and to serve our community. It was decided that since we were so excited for the completion of our building, we’d throw a Grand Opening Party for our community.

The Grand Opening weekend was set for March 24-25, 2018. There was a write up in the local paper. 10,000 direct mail invites were sent to our community. Another 5,000 were put in children’s backpacks at local schools. Members and friends of Risen Savior helped pass out thousands more. Social media advertising, local mom’s groups advertisements, online calendar additions… Christians at Risen Savior were working hard to spread the good news of the grand opening of our sanctuary!

But we knew this weekend was about so much more than just the grand opening of a sanctuary at Risen Savior. This weekend was about THE Risen Savior. This weekend was about sharing the gospel of Jesus with as many people as God brought to us – and God certainly gave us ample opportunities. At our Grand Opening Festival on March 24, there were over 300 people who attended. From that 300, we were able to identify 30 families who had no church home, but who were open to receiving more information about Risen Savior. Then, at our Grand Opening Worship Service, God blessed us with a record attendance of 125, including many ﬁrst time guests and repeat prospects. We are now working together to follow up with these families so that we can continue to share the joy of Jesus with them.

As we look back at these past 18 months, there were some bumps in the road and there were some mistakes that we made. But one thing is certain: the Lord was with us, and we are conﬁdent that he will continue to be with us as we work faithfully to share Jesus with the Lakewood Ranch community.

From Rev. Caleb Free, Risen Savior Lutheran Church – Lakewood Ranch, FL

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Isaiah 43:1

2018/04/20/in Mobile, Verse of the Day

But now, this is what the LORD says – he who created you, Jacob, he who formed you, Israel: “Do not fear, for I have redeemed you; I have summoned you by name; you are mine.”

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 John 4:9

2018/04/19/in Mobile, Verse of the Day

This is how God showed his love among us: He sent his one and only Son into the world that we might live through him.

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 91:1

2018/04/18/in Mobile, Verse of the Day

Whoever dwells in the shelter of the Most High will rest in the shadow of the Almighty.

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.

WELS Home Missions approves new mission starts

2018/04/17/in FIC News, Forward in Christ

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.

“Being a part of the process that determines which new starts and enhancements to support is challenging but rewarding,” says Rev. Wayne Uhlhorn, chairman of the Board for Home Missions. “Our Home Missions Executive Committee takes a thorough look at each request to prayerfully determine which requests give us the best opportunity to reach more souls with the saving gospel of Jesus. We also try to determine which requests are ready and which ones might need a few more months of preparation. That is the challenging part. The rewarding part of the process is when we leave our meeting and know we’ve been blessed to start 14 new ministries that give us ways to spread God’s life-giving Word.”

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.

• 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 are being subsidized by their original congregations. Home Missions will provide assistance through its district mission boards, mission counselors, and synodical support staff but not provide direct funding. 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.

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

• Crown of Life, Corona, Calif.;

• Faith, Anchorage, Alaska;

• Grace, Seattle, Wash.;

• Ascension, Harrisburg, Penn.;

• Shepherd of the Hills, Knoxville, Tenn.;

• Trinity, Waukesha, Wis.; and

• Epiphany and First, Racine, Wis.

“It is our prayer that through these new starts and enhancements more souls will be reached with the gospel of Jesus Christ and be brought to faith in Jesus as their Savior from sin,” says Rev. Keith Free, administrator of WELS Home Missions.

Free reports that Home Missions currently supports 99 subsidized and 33 unsubsidized missions. For more information on WELS Missions, visit wels.net/missions.

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Volume 105, Number 6
Issue: June 2018

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Romans 8:11

2018/04/17/in Mobile, Verse of the Day

And if the Spirit of him who raised Jesus from the dead is living in you, he who raised Christ from the dead will also give life to your mortal bodies because of his Spirit who lives in you.

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 16, 2018

2018/04/16/in Call Reports

Wisconsin Evangelical Lutheran Synod

Pastor, teacher, and staff minister call report

4/10/2018 – 4/16/2018

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 Paul Schmiege	King of Kings LC Willoughby OH	Hope LC Portland MI Pastor; Retirement Call	2/28/2018
Rev Dustin Blumer	Amazing Love LC Frankfort IL	Abiding Peace LC Simpsonville SC Associate Pastor	3/4/2018
Rev Justin Cloute	Living Savior LC Missoula MT	St Luke LC Watertown WI Associate Pastor	3/11/2018
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 David Pagel	Bethany LC Kenosha WI	Mt Olive LC Suamico WI Associate Pastor	3/20/2018
Rev Andrew Ewald	St John LC Clare MI Faith LC Harrison MI	Emanuel First LC Lansing MI Associate Pastor	3/20/2018
Rev Stephen Schmiel	Faith Evangelical LC Prior Lake MN	St John LC Summit SD Pastor	3/24/2018
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; 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 Timothy Bourman	Sure Foundation LC Woodside NY	Martin Luther College New Ulm MN Professor; Theology and Foreign Language	4/12/2018
Rev Brian Hackmann	Peace LC Eagle River AK	Water of Life LC Las Vegas NV Pastor	4/12/2018
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
Miss Anne Hagglund	Resurrection LS Rochester MN	St Marcus LS Milwaukee WI Co-Lead Teacher; Grade 5	3/5/2018
Mrs Dyann Nommensen	Word of Life LS Milwaukee WI	St Paul LS Cudahy WI Teacher; K5	3/11/2018
Mrs Naomi Porth	St Philip LS Milwaukee WI	Pilgrim LS Menomonee Falls WI Teacher; Grades 1-2, Half-Time Call	3/11/2018
Mrs Tammy Smukowski		St Paul LS Cudahy WI Teacher; K4	3/11/2018
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
Mrs Kristin Sternhagen		Rocky Mountain Lutheran High School Commerce City CO Teacher; Part-Time Call	3/11/2018
Mrs Susan Pieper		Martin Luther LS Oshkosh WI Teacher; Grades 1-2	3/18/2018
Ms Deborah Heiderich	The Genesis Academy Houston TX	St John LS Maribel WI ECM Director	3/18/2018
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
Mr Nicholas Raith	Grace LC Saint Joseph MI	St John LS Libertyville IL Teacher; Grades 7-8	3/19/2018
Miss Katie Koch	Atonement LS Milwaukee WI	St John LS Libertyville IL Teacher; Grades 1-2	3/19/2018
Ms Deborah Heiderich	The Genesis Academy Houston TX	St Paul LS Wisconsin Rapids WI ECM Director	3/19/2018
Mr Ryan Oertel		Wisconsin Lutheran College Milwaukee WI Vice President; Student Life, Provisional Call	3/20/2018
Mr Shawn Sprewer		Kingdom Prep LHS Milwaukee WI Administrator; Provisional Call	3/23/2018
Mr Bradley Evers	Martin Luther LS Oshkosh WI	Apostles LS San Jose CA Teacher; Grade 4	3/25/2018
Mrs Alyssa Warnke		Divine Savior Lutheran Academy Doral FL ECM Teacher	3/25/2018
Mrs Amanda Glodowski	St John LC Milwaukee WI	St John LS Milwaukee WI Teacher; Kindergarten	3/25/2018
Miss Rachel Nowicki	Prairie LS Lower Site Gibbon MN	Good Shepherd Lutheran Academy Deltona FL Teacher; Grade 4	3/25/2018
Mr Kevin Lemke	Trinity LS Bangor MI	Immanuel LS Salem OR Teacher; Grades 6-8	3/25/2018
Mr Brent Sorn	Parkland LS Tacoma WA	Mt Olive LS Mankato MN Principal	3/25/2018
Prof David Lecker	Michigan Lutheran Seminary Saginaw MI	Redeemer LS Fond du Lac WI Principal & Grades 7-8	3/25/2018
Miss Kristine Krug	St Paul LS Beverly Hills FL	Zion LS Chesaning MI Teacher; Grades 2-4	3/25/2018
Miss Karen Luehring	Apostles LS San Jose CA	Shepherd of the Valley LS Westminster CO Teacher; Kindergarten-Grade 2	3/25/2018
Mr Aaron Hartwig	St Paul LS North Fond du Lac WI	Shepherd of the Valley LS Westminster CO Principal & Grades 6-8	3/25/2018
Miss Ju Yeon Moon	Beautiful Savior LS Grove City OH	Jerusalem LS Morton Grove IL Teacher	3/25/2018
Mr David Habeck	Trinity LS Caledonia WI	Evergreen Lutheran High School Tacoma WA Teacher; One-Year, Retirement Call	3/25/2018
Mr Bradley Nommensen	St Paul LS Cudahy WI	Christ Alone LS Thiensville WI Teacher; Grades 3-8, Departmentalized	3/26/2018
Miss Sarah Howell	Small Steps Christian Learning Center Port Orange FL	Cross of Christ LS Coon Rapids MN ECM Director	3/26/2018
Miss Emily Gorzalski	Loving Shepherd LS Milwaukee WI	St Lucas LS Milwaukee WI Teacher; Grade 4	3/27/2018
Miss Elaina Mercier		Grace LS Oshkosh WI ECM Teacher	3/27/2018
Mrs Erin Achey	Zion LS Egg Harbor WI	St John LS Lake City MN Teacher; Grades 1-2	3/27/2018
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 Philip Adickes	Zion LS Denver CO	Illinois Lutheran High School Crete IL Teacher; Dean of Students	3/28/2018
Mr Timothy Raddatz	St John LS Wrightstown WI	Trinity LS Marinette WI Principal & Grades 5-8	3/28/2018
Mr Guy Gast	Immanuel LS Manitowoc WI	Trinity LS Waukesha WI Teacher; Grade 7	3/28/2018
Mrs Andrea Hunter	Multi-Language Publications El Paso TX	Shepherd of the Valley LS Menasha WI Teacher; Grades 7-8, Provisional, Part-Time Call	3/28/2018
Mrs Jennifer Hennen	Wisconsin Lutheran High School Milwaukee WI	Risen Savior LS Milwaukee WI Teacher; Grade 5	3/29/2018
Mrs Renee Jensen	Zion LS Valentine NE	Risen Savior LS Milwaukee WI ECM Teacher	3/29/2018
Mr Kaleb Buch	St Luke LS Oakfield WI	Wisconsin Lutheran High School Milwaukee WI Teacher & Coach	3/29/2018
Mrs Kimberle Steinberg	Good Shepherd Preschool Beaver Dam WI	Cross of Glory Lutheran Preschool Peoria AZ ECM Director	4/2/2018
Mr Kyle Swogger	Trinity LS Brillion WI	St Mark LS Lincoln NE Principal & Grades 5-8	4/3/2018
Mrs Amy Sievert		St John LS Watertown WI Teacher; Grade 1	4/4/2018
Mr Joshua Kramer	Good Shepherd LS West Bend WI	Trinity LS Belle Plaine MN Teacher; Grades 5-6	4/4/2018
Mrs Megan Schaffer	St John LS Westland MI	St John LS Mukwonago WI ECM Director	4/4/2018
Mrs Rachel Helwig	Crown of Life LS Hubertus WI	Trinity-St Luke Western Ave Campus Watertown WI ECM Teacher; Half-Time Call	4/4/2018
Mrs Amy Sievert		St Matthew’s LS Oconomowoc WI Teacher; Grade 5	4/5/2018
Prof John Boeder	Martin Luther College New Ulm MN	Conference of Presidents Waukesha WI Christian Giving Counselor	4/5/2018
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 Clark Dittbenner	St John’s LS Two Rivers WI	Sienna Lutheran Academy Missouri City TX Teacher; Grade 5	4/5/2018
Mr Michael Albrecht	Christ Alone LS Thiensville WI	Minnesota Valley Lutheran High School New Ulm MN Teacher; English	4/5/2018
Mrs Jennifer Uher	Mt Calvary LS Waukesha WI	Minnesota Valley Lutheran High School New Ulm MN Teacher; Science	4/5/2018
Mr Ryan Stangl	Michigan Lutheran High School Saint Joseph MI	Luther High School Onalaska WI Teacher; Band	4/5/2018
Mr Joel Burmeister	St Croix Lutheran Academy West Saint Paul MN	Nebraska Evangelical Lutheran High School Waco NE Teacher; Math	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
Mrs Kris Ruth	Huron Valley Lutheran High School Westland MI	Luther High School Onalaska WI Teacher; Physical Education	4/5/2018
Mr Brian Papenfuss	St John LS Lomira WI	Zion LS South Milwaukee WI Teacher; Grades 6-7	4/8/2018
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
Mrs Renee Jensen	Zion LS Valentine NE	Bethany LS Hustisford WI ECM Director	4/8/2018
Mrs Lesley Kaesermann	St Paul LS Arlington MN	St John LS Montello WI Teacher; Kindergarten-Grade 1	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; Provisional, Part-Time Call	4/8/2018
Mr Eric Kaesermann	St Paul LS Arlington MN	St John LS Montello WI Principal & Upper Grades	4/8/2018
Mrs Julie Zabell	St Paul LS Green Bay WI	St Paul LS Green Bay WI ECM Director; Half-Time 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, Provisional, Part-Time 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
Mr Daniel Schultz	Huron Valley Lutheran High School Westland MI	Bloomington LS Bloomington MN Teacher; Grade 7	4/9/2018
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
Miss Martha Lau	Trinity LS Caledonia WI	East Fork Lutheran High School Whiteriver AZ Teacher & Coach	4/9/2018
Mrs Kate Krieger		Christ-St Peter LS-West Campus Milwaukee WI Teacher; Grade 7	4/9/2018
Mrs Monica Schultz	St John LS Westland MI	Bloomington LS Bloomington MN Teacher; Grade 5	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 & Grades 7-8	4/12/2018
Ms Kelli Green		Martin Luther College New Ulm MN Professor; Special Education, Provisional Call	4/12/2018
Mr Jeffrey Wetzel	St Paul LS Muskego WI	Atonement LS Milwaukee WI Teacher; Dean of Students	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
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
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
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

CALLS ACCEPTED

Pastors	Current call	New call	Date accepted
Rev Joel Hoff	Divine Peace LC Renton WA	Trinity LC Neenah WI Associate Pastor	4/12/2018
Rev James Roecker	The Word LC Stevens Point WI	St Andrew’s LC Saint Paul Park MN Pastor	4/14/2018
Rev Thomas Spiegelberg II	Trinity LC Castries St Lucia	Saving Grace LC Mobile AL Pastor	4/15/2018
Teachers	Current call	New call	Date accepted
Miss Kelly Wardell		St Philip LS Milwaukee WI Teacher; Grade 3	4/9/2018
Mr Henry Hoenecke	Westside Christian School Middleton WI	Crown of Life Christian Academy Fort Myers FL Principal	4/10/2018
Mrs Darnell Anthony	Siloah LS Milwaukee WI	East Fork LS Whiteriver AZ Teacher; Grade 3	4/10/2018
Mr Scott Anthony	Siloah LS Milwaukee WI	East Fork LS Whiteriver AZ Teacher; Grade 8	4/10/2018
Miss Cassandra Grys	Emmanuel LS Tempe AZ	St John LS Maribel WI Teacher; Grades 3-5	4/11/2018
Mr Andrew Wehausen	St John LS Caledonia MN	St Paul LS Onalaska WI Teacher; Grade 4	4/12/2018
Mrs Nicole Maddox	St Paul LS Rapid City SD	St Paul LS Rapid City SD ECM Director; Three Quarter-Time Call	4/12/2018
Mrs Jennifer Schmiege		Trinity LS Marinette WI Teacher; Grades 2-4	4/12/2018
Mrs Jennifer Raasch	Pilgrim LS Menomonee Falls WI	Pilgrim LS Menomonee Falls WI ECM Teacher	4/14/2018
Miss Rachel Nottling	Bethany LS Port Orchard WA	Divine Grace LS Lake Orion MI Teacher; Grades 3-5	4/14/2018
Mr Robert Ceasar	St Marcus LS Milwaukee WI	Mt Lebanon LS Milwaukee WI Teacher; Grade 4	4/14/2018
Mrs Amy Sullivan		Christ Our Savior LS Rockford MI ECM Teacher; Provisional Call	4/14/2018
Mrs Emily Platzer	St Paul LS Columbus OH	Our Savior LS Grafton WI Teacher; Grades 1-2, Half-Time Call	4/14/2018

CALLS DECLINED

Pastors	Current call	New call	Date declined
Rev Timothy Spaude	St Jacobi LC Greenfield WI	Lord of Love LC De Forest WI Associate Pastor	4/8/2018
Rev Christopher Esmay	Beautiful Savior LC Topeka KS	Immanuel LC South Lyon MI Pastor	4/9/2018
Rev Joshua Odell	St John LC Phelps WI Land O’ Lakes Lutheran Outreach Land O’ Lakes WI Christ LC Eagle River WI	St Mark LC Bemidji MN Pastor	4/9/2018
Rev Paul Brug	Shoreland Lutheran High School Somers WI	Michigan Lutheran Seminary Saginaw MI Professor; German	4/10/2018
Rev N Mielke III	Ascension LC Sarasota FL	Grace LC Oshkosh WI Associate Pastor	4/11/2018
Rev Michael Borgwardt	Crossroads Church Chicago IL	Cross of Life LC Mississauga ON Canada Pastor	4/13/2018
Rev William Mayhew	New Salem LC Sebewaing MI	St Paul LC North Platte NE St Paul’s LC Broken Bow NE Pastor	4/13/2018
Rev Ryan Wolfe	Redeemer LC Mandan ND	Our Savior’s LC Port Orange FL Pastor	4/13/2018
Rev Matthew Frey	Living Word LC Montrose CO	St Paul’s LC Stevensville MI Associate Pastor	4/14/2018
Rev Kevin Boushek	Beautiful Savior LC La Porte IN	Mt Calvary LC Redding CA Pastor	4/14/2018
Rev Albert Meier II	St Luke LC Jackson MI	St John LC Bay City MI Associate Pastor	4/14/2018
Rev Mark Westra	Prince of Peace LC Fairport NY	St Paul LC Onalaska WI Associate Pastor	4/14/2018
Rev James Roecker	The Word LC Stevens Point WI	St John LC Dowagiac MI Pastor	4/14/2018
Rev Thomas Spiegelberg II	Trinity LC Castries St Lucia	Rocky Mountain Lutheran High School Commerce City CO Pastor	4/15/2018
Rev Thomas Spiegelberg II	Trinity LC Castries St Lucia	Heritage LC Gilbert AZ Pastor	4/15/2018
Teachers	Current call	New call	Date declined
Miss Lindsay Ernst	Garden Homes LS Milwaukee WI	Divine Savior Lutheran Academy Doral FL ECM Teacher	4/9/2018
Mr David Habeck	Trinity LS Caledonia WI	St Peter LS Appleton WI Teacher; Upper Grades, Part-Time Call	4/11/2018
Miss Julie Detjen	Fox Valley Lutheran High School Appleton WI	Huron Valley Lutheran High School Westland MI Teacher; English	4/11/2018
Mrs Heidi Groth	Christ-St John’s LS West Salem WI	Samuel LS Marshall MN Teacher; Kindergarten	4/11/2018
Mr Frederick Zimmerman III	St Paul LS Wonewoc WI	Trinity LS Waco NE Principal & Grades 4-8	4/12/2018
Mr Benjamin Bain	St Paul LS Onalaska WI	St Stephen LS Beaver Dam WI Principal & Upper Grades; Departmentalized	4/12/2018
Miss Sarah Seelow	St John’s LS Burlington WI	Divine Savior Lutheran Academy Doral FL Teacher; Grade 1	4/12/2018
Mr Cody Harms	St Marcus LS Milwaukee WI	St Philip LS Milwaukee WI Teacher; Grade 5	4/12/2018
Ms Bethany Ehlert	Trusting Hearts Preschool Manitowoc WI	St John’s LS Jefferson WI ECM Director	4/13/2018
Mr Michael Chappell	Precious Lambs Preschool Jacksonville FL	St John LS Hemlock MI Principal & Upper Grades	4/13/2018
Miss Amanda Ehrenberg	St Paul LS South Haven MI	Faith of a Child Daycare Oshkosh WI ECM Director	4/13/2018
Mr Luther Curia	St Paul LS Howards Grove WI	St John LS Neillsville WI Teacher; Grades 3-5	4/13/2018
Mr Thomas Stelter	Emmanuel LS Tempe AZ	Grace LS Saint Joseph MI Teacher; Grades 5-8, Departmentalized	4/13/2018
Mr Gabriel Malliet	St John’s LS Burlington WI	Luther Preparatory School Watertown WI Professor; Science	4/13/2018
Mr Joel Grulke	Our Savior LS Grafton WI	Mt Olive LS Delano MN Principal & Grades 6-8	4/14/2018
Mrs Julie Miller		Bethel Little Lamb Preschool Galesville WI ECM Director; Part-Time Call	4/14/2018
Mrs Amy Grulke	Our Savior LS Grafton WI	Mt Olive LS Delano MN Teacher; Kindergarten-Grade 2	4/14/2018
Mr Corey Marohn	St John-St James LS Reedsville WI	St Paul LS Wisconsin Rapids WI Principal	4/14/2018
Mr Perry Lund	Evergreen Lutheran High School Tacoma WA	Peace LS Kissimmee FL Teacher; High School Math & Science	4/14/2018
Mrs Holly Dannecker	St John’s LS Sparta WI	Trinity LS Jenera OH Teacher; Grades 1-2	4/14/2018
Mr Alexander Hunt	Good Shepherd LS Sioux Falls SD	Abiding Word LS Houston TX Teacher; Grade 7 & Vice Principal	4/14/2018
Mr Todd Hackbarth	Lakeside Lutheran High School Lake Mills WI	Illinois Lutheran High School Crete IL Teacher; Math	4/15/2018
Mr Aaron Kjenstad	Trinity LS Aberdeen SD	Grace Lutheran Academy Lowell AR Principal & Upper Grades	4/15/2018
Mr Aaron Olmanson	King of Grace LS Golden Valley MN	Arizona Lutheran Academy Phoenix AZ Teacher: Science	4/16/2018
Mrs Alyssa Warnke		Jesus Loves Me Learning Center North Mankato MN ECM Teacher	4/16/2018

RESIGNED

Teachers	Current call	Date resigned
Mrs Heidi Sullivan	Divine Savior Lutheran Academy Doral FL	6/30/2018
Miss Laura Dietrich	Prince of Peace LS Taylorsville UT	6/30/2018
Mrs Joy Holderbecker	St Mark LS Bemidji MN	6/30/2018

CALLED TO ETERNAL GLORY

Pastors	Home church	Death date
Rev William Bernhardt	Trinity LC Waukesha WI	4/14/2018

RETIREMENT

Pastors	Current call	Date retired
Rev John Seifert	Good Shepherd LC Midland MI	7/15/2018
Teachers	Current call	Date retired
Mr Keith Lauber	Winnebago Lutheran Academy Fond du Lac WI	6/30/2018
Mr Larry Klukas	Winnebago Lutheran Academy Fond du Lac WI	6/30/2018
Mrs Barbara Seifert	Good Shepherd LS Midland MI	6/30/2018
Mrs Joyce Tafel	Good Shepherd LS Midland MI	6/30/2018

LIMITED LENGTH CALL EXPIRED

Teachers	Current call	Date effective
Mrs Faith Gnewuch	Winnebago Lutheran Academy Fond du Lac WI	6/30/2018

VIEW CALL REPORT PDF

View a downloadable pdf version of the call report.

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1 Peter 1:3

2018/04/16/in Mobile, Verse of the Day

Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ! In his great mercy he has given us new birth into a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead.

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.

Mark 15:34

2018/04/15/in Mobile, Verse of the Day

And at three in the afternoon Jesus cried out in a loud voice, “Eloi, Eloi, lema sabachthani?” (which means “My God, my God, why have you forsaken 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.

Luke 23:46

2018/04/14/in Mobile, Verse of the Day

Jesus called out with a loud voice, “Father, into your hands I commit my spirit.” When he had said this, he breathed his last.

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.

Mark 14:22

2018/04/13/in Mobile, Verse of the Day

While they were eating, Jesus took bread, and when he had given thanks, he broke it and gave it to his disciples, saying, “Take it; this is my body.”

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.

God’s map

2018/04/12/in FIC Features, Forward in Christ

We might not know where we’re going, but God does.

Nicole Peterson

“Sweetheart, the map is not wrong.”

“Tim. It is. We followed exactly the roads indicated on this map and here we are.”

“Nic, clearly we didn’t.”

Tim and I, barely thirty years old and just days into our new marriage, were standing at the top of the Waimea Canyon at a dead end road squarely in the middle of Nowhere, Kauai, Hawaii. We were nowhere near the visitor center and trailhead that were supposed to be right here.

“That’s why I’m saying the map is wrong. We turned at the third tiny road to the left, then again to the right at the second smaller road, and here we are. Obviously, they did not draw on every tiny trail and road on the map and that is why we are here. It wasn’t me.”

“Okay, Sugar, I understand.”

“Don’t do that! I know you’re just humoring me! The map is wrong. Do you see how the map is wrong?”

“I do, Nic. I really do.” Never mind the smirk on Tim’s face.

That was February of 2002. And although I admit I have an awful sense of direction, I did have my road in life mapped out. My road was the one where I go to college, meet a nice boy, get married, work a bit, have four adorable babies, live in the northeast suburbs my whole life, and raise these kiddos with my husband until they’re off on their own.

Feeling off-course

But clearly my map was wrong. Just 14 short years later after our wedding, after we played soccer in the rain with our kids and their pals, Tim left the field in his truck with our littlest son. Our two middle children and I followed in a vehicle behind. His last words to me were, “Follow me. I don’t know where I’m going.” Minutes later my children and I hugged and cried as our 45-year-old vibrant, faithful, genuine, kind, joyful, funny, strong, ambitious husband and daddy passed away on the grass in front of us from a sudden massive heart attack.

That road definitely was not on my map. My road was to be the smooth one that Tim and I had agreed on—the one on which we’d grow old together. The one where Tim, body worn but mind sharp, would boss me around as I, strong in body but absent-minded, would push him in a wheelchair and threaten to send him down a hill when he got too sassy (because we knew he would be). It was a joyful, safe, familiar road.

Never in my mind’s eye did I imagine that the pleasant road we were on would turn so abruptly, so frightening, so dark and lonely, for me to travel alone as a heartbroken, too-young widow. Never did I expect to plunge into valleys so deep that only God’s outstretched hand would enable me to climb out—not for me but for the sake of my tender kids who needed me. Nor did I anticipate it could be followed by such beauty that I never would have seen before the dark parts of the journey forced me to travel closer to the light of Jesus.

With Jesus, I can be brave enough to look at the road just within my view, not straining to anticipate the curves or speeding up or slowing down. But I can’t see too far ahead. My journey, with only Jesus as my guide, would reveal blessings of faith, courage, strength, and perspective I never knew possible. But none of this was on my map.

Discovering a new road

New Year’s Eve 2017 also wasn’t on my map. An amazing man invited me and my little passengers on a completely new road that we would travel together. That night, in front of hundreds of Carnival cruise ship passengers, Greg got down on one knee and proposed to me. And I joyfully and emotionally said that I would gladly travel this road with him, wherever it may take us.

As I plan to marry this good man God so unexpectedly put in my path, I know now more than ever that God lights our path and reveals the way forward if we just trust in him and the perfection of his map for us. “Your word is a lamp for my feet, a light on my path” (Psalm 119:105).

I would be lying if I said I wasn’t a little scared as I try to map out this new journey. I’m scared for my ability to help my kids understand, accept, or even love this path. I’m scared that others will misinterpret or even judge how quickly this change in course came about. I’m scared of what life change this brings and how we’ll stand up under it as we’ve already been through so much. I’m scared of how much I love Greg and how vulnerable it feels to feel this way again, even as I continue to nurse a broken heart that will always love Tim.

Trusting in God’s path

But then I remember that drawing the map is not my responsibility. The major milestones on my map belong to God. If I continue to lean on him, my fear calms and trust and optimism replace it. Trust that God brought Greg and I together and blessed us with this unexpected and beautiful love. Trust that together we can navigate this ruggedly beautiful road because our hearts first belong to God and then to one another and our children. Trust that no matter how challenging the terrain gets or how uncertain that next turn seems, God will light the way and fill us with all that we need. Optimism that we’ll blend our Brady bunch together and create a faith-filled, loving, fun family life that will bless not only us, but also others we meet along the way. Optimism that although my children and I loved where God originally put us on the map and it’s easy to want to stay put to avoid bumps along that way, that we’ll instead look ahead to all the goodness that awaits us. Optimism that we’ll continue to be humbled and overwhelmed by God’s goodness, faithfulness, kindness, creativity, and brilliance, as we remember he’s led us through so many miles already. We’re clinging tightly to his hand as we’re “comin’ in hot” around this new curve, and we realize there really is no place for fear when we are focused on God and his path for us.

So as we continue our journey, I thank God for the sweet gift of the miles I traveled with Tim at my side. I thank him for the unexpected gift of Greg on this new leg of our journey. And most of all I thank him that I trust his map isn’t wrong, that by guiding me through the rockiest parts he’s blessed me with confidence to follow.

After all, contrary to what I may like to think, I don’t always know where I’m going. What I do know, without a doubt, is that it’s bound to be a beautiful and exciting ride.

Nicole Peterson is a member at Bethlehem, Lakeville, Minnesota.

Listen to a radio interview conducted with Nicole one year after her husband’s death. Find the link at wels.net/forwardinchrist.

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Get inspirational stories, spiritual help, and synod news from Forward in Christ every month. Print and digital subscriptions are available from Northwestern Publishing House.

Author: Nicole Peterson
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

Luke 24:46

2018/04/12/in Mobile, Verse of the Day

He told them, “This is what is written: The Messiah will suffer and rise from the dead on the third day.”

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.

Hebrews 2:1

2018/04/11/in Mobile, Verse of the Day

We must pay the most careful attention, therefore, to what we have heard, so that we do not drift away.

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.

Luke 22:42

2018/04/10/in Mobile, Verse of the Day

“Father, if you are willing, take this cup from me; yet not my will, but yours be done.”

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 9, 2018

2018/04/09/in Call Reports

Wisconsin Evangelical Lutheran Synod

Pastor, teacher, and staff minister call report

4/3/2018 – 4/9/2018

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 Thomas Spiegelberg II	Trinity LC Castries St Lucia	Saving Grace LC Mobile AL Pastor	2/18/2018
Rev Timothy Spaude	St Jacobi LC Greenfield WI	Lord of Love LC De Forest WI Associate Pastor	2/25/2018
Rev Paul Schmiege	King of Kings LC Willoughby OH	Hope LC Portland MI Pastor; Retirement Call	2/28/2018
Rev Kevin Boushek	Beautiful Savior LC La Porte IN	Mt Calvary LC Redding CA Pastor	3/1/2018
Rev William Mayhew	New Salem LC Sebewaing MI	St Paul LC North Platte NE St Paul’s LC Broken Bow NE Pastor	3/4/2018
Rev Dustin Blumer	Amazing Love LC Frankfort IL	Abiding Peace LC Simpsonville SC Associate Pastor	3/4/2018
Rev Christopher Esmay	Beautiful Savior LC Topeka KS	Immanuel LC South Lyon MI Pastor	3/6/2018
Rev Mark Westra	Prince of Peace LC Fairport NY	St Paul LC Onalaska WI Associate Pastor	3/11/2018
Rev Joel Hoff	Divine Peace LC Renton WA	Trinity LC Neenah WI Associate Pastor	3/11/2018
Rev Justin Cloute	Living Savior LC Missoula MT	St Luke LC Watertown WI Associate Pastor	3/11/2018
Rev Thomas Spiegelberg II	Trinity LC Castries St Lucia	Rocky Mountain Lutheran High School Commerce City CO Pastor	3/13/2018
Rev James Roecker	The Word LC Stevens Point WI	St John LC Dowagiac MI Pastor	3/15/2018
Rev Joshua Odell	St John LC Phelps WI Land O’ Lakes Lutheran Outreach Land O’ Lakes WI Christ LC Eagle River WI	St Mark LC Bemidji MN Pastor	3/15/2018
Rev Michael Borgwardt	Crossroads Church Chicago IL	Cross of Life LC Mississauga ON Canada Pastor	3/18/2018
Rev N Mielke III	Ascension LC Sarasota FL	Grace LC Oshkosh WI Associate Pastor	3/18/2018
Rev James Roecker	The Word LC Stevens Point WI	St Andrew’s LC Saint Paul Park MN Pastor	3/18/2018
Rev Ryan Wolfe	Redeemer LC Mandan ND	Our Savior’s LC Port Orange FL Pastor	3/18/2018
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 Albert Meier II	St Luke LC Jackson MI	St John LC Bay City MI Associate Pastor	3/20/2018
Rev David Pagel	Bethany LC Kenosha WI	Mt Olive LC Suamico WI Associate Pastor	3/20/2018
Rev Andrew Ewald	St John LC Clare MI Faith LC Harrison MI	Emanuel First LC Lansing MI Associate Pastor	3/20/2018
Rev Matthew Frey	Living Word LC Montrose CO	St Paul’s LC Stevensville MI Associate Pastor	3/20/2018
Rev Paul Brug	Shoreland Lutheran High School Somers WI	Michigan Lutheran Seminary Saginaw MI Professor; German	3/22/2018
Rev Stephen Schmiel	Faith Evangelical LC Prior Lake MN	St John LC Summit SD Pastor	3/24/2018
Rev Daniel Lindner	St John’s LC Minneapolis MN	Good Shepherd LC Omaha NE Pastor	4/5/2018
Prof John Boeder	Martin Luther College New Ulm MN	Ministry of Christian Giving Office Waukesha WI Christian Giving Counselor	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 Thomas Spiegelberg II	Trinity LC Castries St Lucia	Heritage LC Gilbert AZ Pastor	4/8/2018
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
Miss Anne Hagglund	Resurrection LS Rochester MN	St Marcus LS Milwaukee WI Co-Lead Teacher; Grade 5	3/5/2018
Mr Gabriel Malliet	St John’s LS Burlington WI	Luther Preparatory School Watertown WI Professor; Science	3/6/2018
Mr Michael Chappell	Precious Lambs Preschool Jacksonville FL	St John LS Hemlock MI Principal & Upper Grades	3/8/2018
Mrs Dyann Nommensen	Word of Life LS Milwaukee WI	St Paul LS Cudahy WI Teacher; K5	3/11/2018
Mrs Naomi Porth	St Philip LS Milwaukee WI	Pilgrim LS Menomonee Falls WI Teacher; Grades 1-2, Half-Time Call	3/11/2018
Mr Henry Hoenecke	Westside Christian School Middleton WI	Crown of Life Christian Academy Fort Myers FL Principal	3/11/2018
Mr Perry Lund	Evergreen Lutheran High School Tacoma WA	Peace LS Kissimmee FL Teacher; High School Math & Science	3/11/2018
Mr Joel Grulke	Our Savior LS Grafton WI	Mt Olive LS Delano MN Principal & Grades 6-8	3/11/2018
Mrs Tammy Smukowski		St Paul LS Cudahy WI Teacher; K4	3/11/2018
Mrs Nicole Maddox	St Paul LS Rapid City SD	St Paul LS Rapid City SD ECM Director; Three Quarter-Time Call	3/11/2018
Mrs Jennifer Raasch	Pilgrim LS Menomonee Falls WI	Pilgrim LS Menomonee Falls WI ECM Teacher	3/11/2018
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
Mrs Kristin Sternhagen		Rocky Mountain Lutheran High School Commerce City CO Teacher; Part-Time Call	3/11/2018
Miss Sarah Seelow	St John’s LS Burlington WI	Divine Savior Lutheran Academy Doral FL Teacher; Grade 1	3/13/2018
Mrs Emily Platzer	St Paul LS Columbus OH	Our Savior LS Grafton WI Teacher; Grades 1-2, Half-Time Call	3/18/2018
Mr Benjamin Bain	St Paul LS Onalaska WI	St Stephen LS Beaver Dam WI Principal & Upper Grades; Departmentalized	3/18/2018
Mrs Susan Pieper		Martin Luther LS Oshkosh WI Teacher; Grades 1-2	3/18/2018
Miss Cassandra Grys	Emmanuel LS Tempe AZ	St John LS Maribel WI Teacher; Grades 3-5	3/18/2018
Ms Deborah Heiderich	The Genesis Academy Houston TX	St John LS Maribel WI ECM Director	3/18/2018
Mrs Amy Grulke	Our Savior LS Grafton WI	Mt Olive LS Delano MN Teacher; Kindergarten-Grade 2	3/18/2018
Mr Frederick Zimmerman III	St Paul LS Wonewoc WI	Trinity LS Waco NE Principal & Grades 4-8	3/18/2018
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
Mr Nicholas Raith	Grace LC Saint Joseph MI	St John LS Libertyville IL Teacher; Grades 7-8	3/19/2018
Miss Kelly Wardell		St Philip LS Milwaukee WI Teacher; Grade 3	3/19/2018
Miss Katie Koch	Atonement LS Milwaukee WI	St John LS Libertyville IL Teacher; Grades 1-2	3/19/2018
Mr Corey Marohn	St John-St James LS Reedsville WI	St Paul LS Wisconsin Rapids WI Principal	3/19/2018
Ms Deborah Heiderich	The Genesis Academy Houston TX	St Paul LS Wisconsin Rapids WI ECM Director	3/19/2018
Mr Scott Anthony	Siloah LS Milwaukee WI	East Fork LS Whiteriver AZ Teacher; Grade 8	3/20/2018
Mr Ryan Oertel		Wisconsin Lutheran College Milwaukee WI Vice President; Student Life, Provisional Call	3/20/2018
Mrs Darnell Anthony	Siloah LS Milwaukee WI	East Fork LS Whiteriver AZ Teacher; Grade 3	3/20/2018
Mrs Alyssa Warnke		Jesus Loves Me Learning Center North Mankato MN ECM Teacher	3/21/2018
Mr Thomas Stelter	Emmanuel LS Tempe AZ	Grace LS Saint Joseph MI Teacher; Grades 5-8, Departmentalized	3/22/2018
Mrs Heidi Groth	Christ-St John’s LS West Salem WI	Samuel LS Marshall MN Teacher; Kindergarten	3/22/2018
Mr Shawn Sprewer		Kingdom Prep LHS Milwaukee WI Administrator; Provisional Call	3/23/2018
Mr Bradley Evers	Martin Luther LS Oshkosh WI	Apostles LS San Jose CA Teacher; Grade 4	3/25/2018
Mrs Alyssa Warnke		Divine Savior Lutheran Academy Doral FL ECM Teacher	3/25/2018
Mr Robert Ceasar	St Marcus LS Milwaukee WI	Mt Lebanon LS Milwaukee WI Teacher; Grade 4	3/25/2018
Mr Cody Harms	St Marcus LS Milwaukee WI	St Philip LS Milwaukee WI Teacher; Grade 5	3/25/2018
Mrs Amanda Glodowski	St John LC Milwaukee WI	St John LS Milwaukee WI Teacher; Kindergarten	3/25/2018
Mr Andrew Wehausen	St John LS Caledonia MN	St Paul LS Onalaska WI Teacher; Grade 4	3/25/2018
Mr Luther Curia	St Paul LS Howards Grove WI	St John LS Neillsville WI Teacher; Grades 3-5	3/25/2018
Miss Rachel Nowicki	Prairie LS Lower Site Gibbon MN	Good Shepherd Lutheran Academy Deltona FL Teacher; Grade 4	3/25/2018
Mrs Holly Dannecker	St John’s LS Sparta WI	Trinity LS Jenera OH Teacher; Grades 1-2	3/25/2018
Ms Bethany Ehlert	Trusting Hearts Preschool Manitowoc WI	St John’s LS Jefferson WI ECM Director	3/25/2018
Miss Amanda Ehrenberg	St Paul LS South Haven MI	Faith of a Child Daycare Oshkosh WI ECM Director	3/25/2018
Mr Kevin Lemke	Trinity LS Bangor MI	Immanuel LS Salem OR Teacher; Grades 6-8	3/25/2018
Mr Aaron Kjenstad	Trinity LS Aberdeen SD	Grace Lutheran Academy Lowell AR Principal & Upper Grades	3/25/2018
Prof David Lecker	Michigan Lutheran Seminary Saginaw MI	Redeemer LS Fond du Lac WI Principal & Grades 7-8	3/25/2018
Miss Kristine Krug	St Paul LS Beverly Hills FL	Zion LS Chesaning MI Teacher; Grades 2-4	3/25/2018
Miss Karen Luehring	Apostles LS San Jose CA	Shepherd of the Valley LS Westminster CO Teacher; Kindergarten-Grade 2	3/25/2018
Mr Aaron Hartwig	St Paul LS North Fond du Lac WI	Shepherd of the Valley LS Westminster CO Principal & Grades 6-8	3/25/2018
Miss Julie Detjen	Fox Valley Lutheran High School Appleton WI	Huron Valley Lutheran High School Westland MI Teacher; English	3/25/2018
Miss Ju Yeon Moon	Beautiful Savior LS Grove City OH	Jerusalem LS Morton Grove IL Teacher	3/25/2018
Mr David Habeck	Trinity LS Caledonia WI	Evergreen Lutheran High School Tacoma WA Teacher; One-Year, Retirement Call	3/25/2018
Miss Lindsay Ernst	Garden Homes LS Milwaukee WI	Divine Savior Lutheran Academy Doral FL ECM Teacher	3/25/2018
Mrs Amy Sullivan		Christ Our Savior LS Rockford MI ECM Teacher; Provisional Call	3/25/2018
Mr Bradley Nommensen	St Paul LS Cudahy WI	Christ Alone LS Thiensville WI Teacher; Grades 3-8, Departmentalized	3/26/2018
Miss Sarah Howell	Small Steps Christian Learning Center Port Orange FL	Cross of Christ LS Coon Rapids MN ECM Director	3/26/2018
Miss Emily Gorzalski	Loving Shepherd LS Milwaukee WI	St Lucas LS Milwaukee WI Teacher; Grade 4	3/27/2018
Miss Elaina Mercier		Grace LS Oshkosh WI ECM Teacher	3/27/2018
Mrs Erin Achey	Zion LS Egg Harbor WI	St John LS Lake City MN Teacher; Grades 1-2	3/27/2018
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
Miss Rachel Nottling	Bethany LS Port Orchard WA	Divine Grace LS Lake Orion MI Teacher; Grades 3-5	3/28/2018
Mr Todd Hackbarth	Lakeside Lutheran High School Lake Mills WI	Illinois Lutheran High School Crete IL Teacher; Math	3/28/2018
Mr Philip Adickes	Zion LS Denver CO	Illinois Lutheran High School Crete IL Teacher; Dean of Students	3/28/2018
Mr Timothy Raddatz	St John LS Wrightstown WI	Trinity LS Marinette WI Principal & Grades 5-8	3/28/2018
Mrs Jennifer Schmiege		Trinity LS Marinette WI Teacher; Grades 2-4	3/28/2018
Mr Guy Gast	Immanuel LS Manitowoc WI	Trinity LS Waukesha WI Teacher; Grade 7	3/28/2018
Mrs Andrea Hunter		Shepherd of the Valley LS Menasha WI Teacher; Grades 7-8, Provisional, Part-Time Call	3/28/2018
Mrs Jennifer Hennen	Wisconsin Lutheran High School Milwaukee WI	Risen Savior LS Milwaukee WI Teacher; Grade 5	3/29/2018
Mrs Renee Jensen	Zion LS Valentine NE	Risen Savior LS Milwaukee WI ECM Teacher	3/29/2018
Mr Kaleb Buch	St Luke LS Oakfield WI	Wisconsin Lutheran High School Milwaukee WI Teacher & Coach	3/29/2018
Mrs Kimberle Steinberg	Good Shepherd Preschool Beaver Dam WI	Cross of Glory Lutheran Preschool Peoria AZ ECM Director	4/2/2018
Mr David Habeck	Trinity LS Caledonia WI	St Peter LS Appleton WI Teacher; Upper Grades, Part-Time Call	4/2/2018
Mr Kyle Swogger	Trinity LS Brillion WI	St Mark LS Lincoln NE Principal & Grades 5-8	4/3/2018
Mr Aaron Olmanson	King of Grace LS Golden Valley MN	Arizona Lutheran Academy Phoenix AZ Teacher; Science	4/3/2018
Mrs Amy Sievert		St John LS Watertown WI Teacher; Grade 1	4/4/2018
Mr Joshua Kramer	Good Shepherd LS West Bend WI	Trinity LS Belle Plaine MN Teacher; Grades 5-6	4/4/2018
Mrs Megan Schaffer	St John LS Westland MI	St John LS Mukwonago WI ECM Director	4/4/2018
Mrs Rachel Helwig	Crown of Life LS Hubertus WI	Trinity-St Luke Western Ave Campus Watertown WI ECM Teacher; Half-Time Call	4/4/2018
Mrs Amy Sievert		St Matthew’s LS Oconomowoc WI Teacher; Grade 5	4/5/2018
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 Clark Dittbenner	St John’s LS Two Rivers WI	Sienna Lutheran Academy Missouri City TX Teacher; Grade 5	4/5/2018
Mr Michael Albrecht	Christ Alone LS Thiensville WI	Minnesota Valley Lutheran High School New Ulm MN Teacher; English	4/5/2018
Mrs Jennifer Uher	Mt Calvary LS Waukesha WI	Minnesota Valley Lutheran High School New Ulm MN Teacher; Science	4/5/2018
Mr Ryan Stangl	Michigan Lutheran High School Saint Joseph MI	Luther High School Onalaska WI Teacher; Band	4/5/2018
Mr Joel Burmeister	St Croix Lutheran Academy West Saint Paul MN	Nebraska Evangelical Lutheran High School Waco NE Teacher; Math	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
Mrs Kris Ruth	Huron Valley Lutheran High School Westland MI	Luther High School Onalaska WI Teacher; Physical Education	4/5/2018
Mrs Julie Miller		Bethel Little Lamb Preschool Galesville WI ECM Director; Part-Time Call	4/8/2018
Mr Brian Papenfuss	St John LS Lomira WI	Zion LS South Milwaukee WI Teacher; Grades 6-7	4/8/2018
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
Mr Alexander Hunt	Good Shepherd LS Sioux Falls SD	Abiding Word LS Houston TX Teacher; Grade 7 & Vice Principal	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
Mrs Renee Jensen	Zion LS Valentine NE	Bethany LS Hustisford WI ECM Director	4/8/2018
Mrs Lesley Kaesermann	St Paul LS Arlington MN	St John LS Montello WI Teacher; Kindergarten-Grade 1	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
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 Kate Krieger		Siloah LS Milwaukee WI Teacher; Grade 6	4/8/2018
Mr Craig Breitkreutz	St John LS Baraboo WI	Faith LS Antioch IL Principal & Upper Grades; Departmentalized	4/8/2018
Mr Eric Kaesermann	St Paul LS Arlington MN	St John LS Montello WI Principal & Upper Grades	4/8/2018
Mrs Julie Zabell	St Paul LS Green Bay WI	St Paul LS Green Bay WI ECM Director; Half-Time Call	4/8/2018
Mrs Kristin Nelson		St Paul LS Green Bay WI ECM Teacher; Half-Time, Provisional Call	4/8/2018

CALLS ACCEPTED

Pastors	Current call	New call	Date accepted
Rev Ethan Cherney	St Paul LC Green Bay WI	Our Savior LC Pomona CA Pastor	4/3/2018
Rev Paul Micheel	St Mark LC Wallace MI Holy Cross LC Daggett MI	St Paul LC Grant Park IL Pastor	4/5/2018
Rev Peter Metzger	First LC Lake Geneva WI	St Peter LC St. Albert AB Canada Pastor	4/5/2018
Rev Tim Gumm	Peace LC Loves Park IL	St John LC Doylestown WI Pastor	4/6/2018
Rev Paul Kuehn		Salem LC Loretto MN Associate Pastor	4/6/2018
Rev Eric Hansen	St Mark LC De Pere WI & Green Bay WI	Crown of Life LC Corona CA Pastor	4/6/2018
Rev Peter Walther	St Paul LC Appleton WI	Our Savior’s LC East Brunswick NJ Pastor	4/6/2018
Rev Robert Guenther	Grace LC Kenai AK	St John’s LC New Ulm MN Associate Pastor	4/7/2018
Teachers	Current call	New call	Date accepted
Mr Michael Peek	Redeemer LS Tucson AZ	Redeemer LS Tucson AZ Director; Christian Education	3/18/2018
Mrs Lisa Herlich		Redeemer LS Tucson AZ Teacher; Grades 5-6, Provisional Call	3/25/2018
Mr Brian Humann	Faith LS Tacoma WA	St John LS Mukwonago WI Teacher; Grades 3-4	4/2/2018
Mrs Amanda Humann	Lambs of Faith Preschool Tacoma WA	St John LS Mukwonago WI ECM Teacher; Half-Time Call	4/2/2018
Mrs Beth Humann	Holy Trinity LS Des Moines WA	Holy Trinity LS Des Moines WA Teacher; Grade 1	4/3/2018
Mr Steven Bremer	Wisconsin Lutheran High School Milwaukee WI	Nebraska Evangelical Lutheran High School Waco NE Principal	4/3/2018
Mr Joshua Walker	St Paul LS Livonia MI	St Jacobi LS Greenfield WI Principal & Upper Grades; Departmentalized	4/3/2018
Ms Melody Krause		Trinity LS Kaukauna WI ECM Teacher	4/3/2018
Mr James Datka		St Marcus LS Milwaukee WI Director of Alumni Relations; Provisional Call	4/4/2018
Mr Seth Kock		St Marcus LC Milwaukee WI Teacher; Athletic Director, Provisional Call	4/4/2018
Mrs Allison Hoffmann	Bethany Lutheran Preschool Saginaw MI	Bethany Lutheran Preschool Saginaw MI ECM Teacher; Part Time Call	4/4/2018
Mr Dane Mattes	Trinity LS Brillion WI	Northdale LS Tampa FL Principal & Grades 7-8	4/5/2018
Mr Ryan Obry	Trinity LS Hoskins NE	Samuel LS Marshall MN Principal & Grades 6-8	4/5/2018
Mr Justin Vilski	Prince of Peace LS Taylorsville UT	Prince of Peace LS Taylorsville UT Principal & Grades 6-8	4/6/2018
Mr Philip Hochmuth	St John LS Maribel WI	St John LS Maribel WI Principal & Grades 6-8	4/7/2018
Mr Joshua Nelson	Christ-St Peter LS-West Campus Milwaukee WI	Wisconsin Lutheran High School Milwaukee WI Teacher; Chemistry	4/8/2018
Mrs Bailey Scriver		Lord of Life LS Friendswood TX Teacher; Grades 2-3	4/8/2018
Staff Ministers	Current call	New call	Date accepted
Mr Jonathan Favorite	CrossWalk Lutheran Ministries Laveen AZ	St Peter LC – North Campus Appleton WI Staff Minister	4/8/2018

CALLS DECLINED

Pastors	Current call	New call	Date declined
Rev John Strackbein	Holy Cross LC Oklahoma City OK	Bethel LC Menasha WI Associate Pastor	4/2/2018
Rev Eric Hansen	St Mark LC De Pere WI & Green Bay WI	Victory of the Lamb LC Franklin WI Associate Pastor	4/3/2018
Rev Steven Lange	Hope LC Louisville KY	St Paul LC Saginaw MI Associate Pastor	4/4/2018
Rev Nathan Strutz	Resurrection LC Verona WI	Conference of Presidents Waukesha WI Director of Evangelism	4/4/2018
Rev Bryan Prell	Petra LC Sauk Rapids MN	Resurrection LC Verona WI & Monroe WI Associate Pastor	4/4/2018
Rev Steven Gabb	Gethsemane LC Los Angeles CA	St Peter LC Weyauwega WI Associate Pastor	4/6/2018
Rev Roger Rockhoff	Tree of Life LC Cary NC	Zion LC Toledo OH Pastor	4/7/2018
Rev Joshua Kesting	St Paul LC Neosho WI	St John LC Peshtigo WI Pastor	4/7/2018
Rev Jonathan Bauer	Good News LC Mt Horeb WI	Wisconsin Lutheran Seminary Mequon WI Professor; New Testament & practical theology (homiletics)	4/7/2018
Rev Matthew Martz	Lamb of God LC Phoenix AZ	Abiding Faith LC Fort Worth TX Pastor	4/8/2018
Rev Kevin Boushek	Beautiful Savior LC La Porte IN	Mount Olive LC Appleton WI Associate Pastor	4/8/2018
Teachers	Current call	New call	Date declined
Mrs Michelle Schmidt	Faith LS Fond du Lac WI	Faith LS Fond du Lac WI Teacher; Grade 3, Provisional Call	3/21/2018
Mr Jeffrey Schoenherr	Minnesota Valley Lutheran High School New Ulm MN	Divine Savior Lutheran Academy Doral FL Teacher; High School Math	3/29/2018
Mrs Carol Schoenherr	St Paul LS New Ulm MN	Divine Savior Lutheran Academy Doral FL Teacher; Grade 3	3/29/2018
Mr Duane Vance	Jerusalem LS Morton Grove IL	Apostles LS San Jose CA Principal	3/29/2018
Miss Rachel Taasaas	St Matthew LS Spokane WA	Divine Savior Lutheran Academy Doral FL Teacher; Grade 1	3/29/2018
Miss Kimberly Ehlke	Trinity LS Caledonia WI	Peace LS Hartford WI Teacher; Grade 2	3/31/2018
Mr Philip Miller	St Paul LS Rapid City SD	St Mark LS Green Bay WI Teacher; Grade 7	4/2/2018
Mr Matthew Groth	St Paul’s LS Saginaw MI	St John’s LS Jefferson WI Teacher; Grades 7-8	4/2/2018
Mr Philip Haefner	Trinity LS Bay City MI	St Martin’s LS Watertown SD Principal & Grades 6-8; Departmentalized	4/2/2018
Mrs Andrea Neumann	St Matthew’s LS Oconomowoc WI	Trinity LS Kaukauna WI Teacher; Kindergarten	4/2/2018
Mr Darren Vogt	East Fork LS Whiteriver AZ	St Paul LS Columbus OH Teacher; Grades 5-6	4/2/2018
Mrs Ruth Vogt	East Fork LS Whiteriver AZ	St Paul LS Columbus OH Teacher; Kindergarten	4/2/2018
Mrs Erin Krebs		St Paul LS Ixonia WI ECM Director; Half-Time Call	4/3/2018
Mr Daniel Gawrisch	Martin Luther College New Ulm MN	Kettle Moraine Lutheran High School Jackson WI Teacher; Physical Education	4/3/2018
Miss Jennifer Hunt	Gethsemane LS Omaha NE	Zion LS Monroe MI Teacher; Grades 1-2	4/3/2018
Miss Rachel Petermann	Trinity LS Kiel WI	Mt Calvary LS Waukesha WI Teacher; Grade 2	4/4/2018
Miss Meredith Moeller	St Matthew LS Janesville WI	Redeemer LS Tucson AZ Teacher; Grades 3-4	4/4/2018
Miss Laura Dietrich	Prince of Peace LS Taylorsville UT	Mt Calvary LS Waukesha WI Teacher; Grade 1	4/4/2018
Miss Amanda Koch	Bethany LS Manitowoc WI	Holy Cross LS Madison WI Teacher; Upper Grades, Departmentalized	4/4/2018
Mr Nathan Bauer	Garden Homes LS Milwaukee WI	St Marcus LS Milwaukee WI Lead Teacher; Grade 7	4/4/2018
Ms Lynn Marggraf	Northdale LS Tampa FL	Grace LS Portland OR Teacher; Lower Grades	4/4/2018
Mr Joshua Gorske	St Croix Lutheran Academy West Saint Paul MN	Trinity LS Caledonia WI Teacher; Grade 8	4/5/2018
Mr Benton Witte	Riverview LS Appleton WI	St Paul LS Columbus OH Teacher; Grades 3-4	4/5/2018
Mr Steven Haag	First LS Lake Geneva WI	St Lucas LS Kewaskum WI Principal & Grades 5-6	4/5/2018
Mr Randy Peck	Our Redeemer LS Madison WI	First German LS Manitowoc WI Principal & Grades 7-8	4/6/2018
Mr Russell Klatt	Our Redeemer LS Madison WI	Holy Trinity LS Des Moines WA Teacher; Grades 5-6	4/7/2018
Mr Justin Wasser	Crown of Life LS Warren MI	Mt Calvary-Grace LS La Crosse WI Teacher; Middle/Upper Grades	4/7/2018
Mr Jason Rupnow	Risen Savior LS Mankato MN	Trinity LS Caledonia WI Principal	4/8/2018
Mr Adam Reinhard	Little Lambs Preschool Mandan ND	Grace LS Portland OR Teacher; Middle Grades & Staff Minister	4/8/2018
Prof Timothy Wrobel	Luther Preparatory School Watertown WI	Divine Savior Lutheran Academy Doral FL Teacher; High School English	4/8/2018
Mr Timothy Payne	St John’s LS Newburg WI	Trinity LS Neenah WI Principal & Grades 7-8	4/8/2018
Ms Elizabeth Johnson	Christ the King School Palm Coast FL	St John LS Redwood Falls MN Teacher; Grade 2	4/8/2018

RESIGNED

Teachers	Current call	Date resigned
Mrs Kathryn Schwartz	Good Shepherd LS Downers Grove IL	6/30/2018
Miss Audrey Metzger	Good Shepherd Lutheran Academy Deltona FL	6/30/2018

CALLED TO ETERNAL GLORY

Teachers	Home church	Death date
Mrs Lynn Hartzell	Immanuel LC Lakeside AZ	3/29/2018

RETIREMENT

Pastors	Current call	Date retired
Rev John Braun	Northwestern Publishing House Milwaukee WI	6/30/2017
Rev Frederick Casmer	Paradise Valley LC Phoenix AZ	4/2/2018
Teachers	Current call	Date retired
Mrs Jeneane Thiesfeldt	Martin Luther College New Ulm MN	5/15/2018
Staff Ministers	Current call	Date retired
Mr Frederick Horn	Grace LC Milwaukee WI	6/30/2018

VIEW CALL REPORT PDF

View a downloadable pdf version of the call report.

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Proverbs 9:10

2018/04/09/in Mobile, Verse of the Day

The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom, and knowledge of the Holy One is understanding.

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.

Romans 12:10

2018/04/08/in Mobile, Verse of the Day

Be devoted to one another in love. Honor one another above yourselves. name.”

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.

Acts 10:43

2018/04/07/in Mobile, Verse of the Day

“All the prophets testify about him that everyone who believes in him receives forgiveness of sins through his name.”

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 44:6

2018/04/06/in Mobile, Verse of the Day

“This is what the LORD says – Israel’s King and Redeemer, the LORD Almighty: I am the first and I am the last; apart from me there is no 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.

Reaching Native Christians

2018/04/05/in FIC Features, Forward in Christ

WELS’ first missionaries to a foreign nation stepped off the train in Arizona determined to share the gospel with the Apache people.

Daniel J. Rautenberg and Debbie K. Dietrich

“This is the worst of times to begin an Indian mission.” So said a veteran missionary in 1876 as the Iowa synod was deciding whether or not to begin a gospel outreach effort to American Indians.

It certainly seemed like he was right. Days later General Custer and his men would die at the Battle of Little Bighorn. The next year an effort by the Joint Lutheran Synod to begin an Indian mission failed miserably when the missionary called to begin the work chose instead to focus on German Lutheran immigrants going to California. The Iowa Synod closed down its Indian mission. No other mission societies could be found to be partners in this venture. Time, money, and workers were lacking.

Then was the best time

But the desire to do mission work did not die. Undeterred by the obstacles, our forefathers continued to plan and work to begin their mission efforts. And when they found a group of people in Arizona unreached by the good news of the gospel, they decided that it was indeed the best time to bring the gospel message to the Apache Tribes in Arizona Territory.

In October of 1893, John Plocher and George Adascheck stepped off the train in Arizona Territory in what was then known as “Hell’s 40 Acres.” It was a harsh new environment. Desert heat without air conditioning. The strange barren landscape stretching in front of them foretold of isolation and loneliness. The only green things in sight seemed to be the missionaries.

As Rev. Alchesay Arthur Guenther, a longtime missionary to the Apache, wrote, “No real town. Just scattered small teepees or wikiups constructed of cedar poles covered with bear grass, tied with cactus rope. A tus (pitch covered basket) for carrying water, burden baskets for carrying corn, flour, salt, jerky, coffee, yucca bananas, wild onions, acorns, walnuts, and anything else. A scrawny horse and a couple of patient donkeys. Little ones with matted hair, bare feet and ragged clothing. These were to become his ‘congregation.’ Did this early white intruder from the East feel in his pocket for what just might be a return ticket?”

Aside from a theological education, the early missionaries were completely untrained for this new endeavor in this new culture. Their task was to preach the gospel to people who spoke a different language and had all the skepticism, cynicism, and hostility that comes from being defeated and betrayed. But the missionaries were determined to share the message of God’s love.

And they found people willing to listen. Try, fail, innovate, adapt, try again. Showing love, patience, and perseverance, our missionaries built a relationship with the Apache people. Over the last 125 years, not everyone who came to share the gospel could stay long. But the graveyards on both reservations pay silent tribute to those who did.

Now is the best time

One hundred twenty-five years later, not so silent tribute is paid every week by thousands of Native Americans who gather to offer praise to our gracious and merciful God! The powerful gospel has done incredible things on the Apache reservations in Arizona and continues to work in the hearts of fourth- and fifth-generation Christians. Children still fill the schools to learn about Jesus, and adults who were raised in the mission’s nursery are now leaders in the nine congregations. With more than 3,600 members, the Native American Mission now is raising up Apache men and women to take the gospel to their own people and, God-willing, to many other Native American tribes in the future.

We remember our history, because the attitudes displayed, lessons learned, and examples shown continue to guide and inspire us today! Not many of us will visit sick members after catching skunks and rendering their oil so that we can wrap our members in foul-smelling tar paper and torn flannel shirts like one of our early missionaries did! But we still show love and compassion. We may not have to live in a half cave with an Ocotillo cactus fence door or put together a house ordered from a Montgomery Ward catalog like those early missionaries, but we can improvise and innovate and find ways to do ministry and communicate the gospel. Most of all, we can, with the Holy Spirit’s help, always keep that fire to share the gospel burning bright. Despite the obstacles that Satan will put in front of us, our God is stronger and the Word of Life is powerful and urgently needed by more people.

So from your Native American brothers and sisters: A shoog’ (White Mountain Apache language), Ahi’ ye e’ (San Carlos Apache language). “Thank you!” to all of the WELS people today and to our ancestors 125 years ago who, undeterred by trials, take the gospel across the street, across the country, and across the oceans! We pray with you that we all use every opportunity to share the good news like the first world missionaries did 125 years ago—undeterred and fueled by the Holy Spirit, with new approaches and techniques, to new people, despite economic and political climates. “Now is the time of God’s favor, now is the day of salvation” (2 Corinthians 6:2). 

May God bless all our efforts.

Daniel Rautenberg is the Native American Mission field coordinator. Debbie Dietrich is the Native American Mission communication coordinator.

This is the first article in a three-part series on WELS mission work on the Apache reservations in Arizona.

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Author: Daniel J. Rautenberg and Debbie K. Dietrich
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

Luke 6:37

2018/04/05/in Mobile, Verse of the Day

“Do not judge, and you will not be judged. Do not condemn, and you will not be condemned. Forgive, and you will be forgiven.”

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.

Ezekiel 36:26

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

I will give you a new heart and put a new spirit in you; I will remove from you your heart of stone and give you a heart of flesh.

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 59:1

2018/04/03/in Mobile, Verse of the Day

Surely the arm of the LORD is not too short to save, nor his ear too dull to hear.

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 2, 2018

2018/04/02/in Call Reports

Wisconsin Evangelical Lutheran Synod

Pastor, teacher, and staff minister call report

3/27/2018 – 4/2/2018

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 Thomas Spiegelberg II	Trinity LC Castries St Lucia	Saving Grace LC Mobile AL Pastor	2/18/2018
Rev Robert Guenther	Grace LC Kenai AK	St John’s LC New Ulm MN Associate Pastor	2/20/2018
Rev Ethan Cherney	St Paul LC Green Bay WI	Our Savior LC Pomona CA Pastor	2/22/2018
Rev Tim Gumm	Peace LC Loves Park IL	St John LC Doylestown WI St Stephen LC Fall River WI Pastor	2/25/2018
Rev Timothy Spaude	St Jacobi LC Greenfield WI	Lord of Love LC De Forest WI Associate Pastor	2/25/2018
Rev Bryan Prell	Petra LC Sauk Rapids MN	Resurrection LC Verona WI & Monroe WI Associate Pastor	2/25/2018
Rev Paul Schmiege	King of Kings LC Willoughby OH	Hope LC Portland MI Pastor; Retirement Call	2/28/2018
Rev Kevin Boushek	Beautiful Savior LC La Porte IN	Mount Olive LC Appleton WI Associate Pastor	2/28/2018
Rev Jonathan Bauer	Good News LC Mt Horeb WI	Wisconsin Lutheran Seminary Mequon WI Professor; New Testament & practical theology (homiletics)	2/28/2018
Rev Kevin Boushek	Beautiful Savior LC La Porte IN	Mt Calvary LC Redding CA Pastor	3/1/2018
Rev William Mayhew	New Salem LC Sebewaing MI	St Paul LC North Platte NE St Paul’s LC Broken Bow NE Pastor	3/4/2018
Rev Dustin Blumer	Amazing Love LC Frankfort IL	Abiding Peace LC Simpsonville SC Associate Pastor	3/4/2018
Rev Peter Metzger	First LC Lake Geneva WI	St Peter LC St. Albert AB Canada Pastor	3/4/2018
Rev John Strackbein	Holy Cross LC Oklahoma City OK	Bethel LC Menasha WI Associate Pastor	3/5/2018
Rev Christopher Esmay	Beautiful Savior LC Topeka KS	Immanuel LC South Lyon MI Pastor	3/6/2018
Rev Paul Kuehn	Divine Savior LC Shawano WI	Salem LC Loretto MN Associate Pastor	3/6/2018
Rev Paul Micheel	St Mark LC Wallace MI Holy Cross LC Daggett MI	St Paul LC Grant Park IL Pastor	3/6/2018
Rev Nathan Strutz	Resurrection LC Verona WI	Commission on Evangelism Waukesha WI Director	3/8/2018
Rev Mark Westra	Prince of Peace LC Fairport NY	St Paul LC Onalaska WI Associate Pastor	3/11/2018
Rev Steven Gabb	Gethsemane LC Los Angeles CA	St Peter LC Weyauwega WI Associate Pastor	3/11/2018
Rev Joel Hoff	Divine Peace LC Renton WA	Trinity LC Neenah WI Associate Pastor	3/11/2018
Rev Justin Cloute	Living Savior LC Missoula MT	St Luke LC Watertown WI Associate Pastor	3/11/2018
Rev Peter Walther	St Paul LC Appleton WI	Our Savior’s LC East Brunswick NJ Pastor	3/11/2018
Rev Steven Lange	Hope LC Louisville KY	St Paul LC Saginaw MI Associate Pastor	3/12/2018
Rev Thomas Spiegelberg II	Trinity LC Castries St Lucia	Rocky Mountain Lutheran High School Commerce City CO Pastor	3/13/2018
Rev Eric Hansen	St Mark LC De Pere WI & Green Bay WI	Crown of Life LC Corona CA Pastor	3/14/2018
Rev James Roecker	The Word LC Stevens Point WI	St John LC Dowagiac MI Pastor	3/15/2018
Rev Roger Rockhoff	Tree of Life LC Cary NC	Zion LC Toledo OH Pastor	3/15/2018
Rev Eric Hansen	St Mark LC De Pere WI & Green Bay WI	Victory of the Lamb LC Franklin WI Associate Pastor	3/15/2018
Rev Joshua Odell	St John LC Phelps WI Land O’ Lakes Lutheran Outreach Land O’ Lakes WI Christ LC Eagle River WI	St Mark LC Bemidji MN Pastor	3/15/2018
Rev Michael Borgwardt	Crossroads Church Chicago IL	Cross of Life LC Mississauga ON Canada Pastor	3/18/2018
Rev N Mielke III	Ascension LC Sarasota FL	Grace LC Oshkosh WI Associate Pastor	3/18/2018
Rev James Roecker	The Word LC Stevens Point WI	St Andrew’s LC Saint Paul Park MN Pastor	3/18/2018
Rev Ryan Wolfe	Redeemer LC Mandan ND	Our Savior’s LC Port Orange FL Pastor	3/18/2018
Rev Matthew Martz	Lamb of God LC Phoenix AZ	Abiding Faith LC Fort Worth TX Pastor	3/18/2018
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 Albert Meier II	St Luke LC Jackson MI	St John LC Bay City MI Associate Pastor	3/20/2018
Rev Joshua Kesting	St Paul LC Neosho WI	St John LC Peshtigo WI Pastor	3/20/2018
Rev David Pagel	Bethany LC Kenosha WI	Mt Olive LC Suamico WI Associate Pastor	3/20/2018
Rev Andrew Ewald	St John LC Clare MI Faith LC Harrison MI	Emanuel First LC Lansing MI Associate Pastor	3/20/2018
Rev Matthew Frey	Living Word LC Montrose CO	St Paul’s LC Stevensville MI Associate Pastor	3/20/2018
Rev Paul Brug	Shoreland Lutheran High School Somers WI	Michigan Lutheran Seminary Saginaw MI Professor; German	3/22/2018
Rev Stephen Schmiel	Faith Evangelical LC Prior Lake MN	St John LC Summit SD Pastor	3/24/2018
Teachers	Current call	New call	Date issued
Mrs Bailey Scriver		Lord of Life LS Friendswood TX Teacher; Grades 2-3	2/11/2018
Mrs Michelle Schmidt	Faith LS Fond du Lac WI	Faith LS Fond du Lac WI Teacher; Grade 3, Provisional Call	2/18/2018
Mr Daniel Gawrisch	Martin Luther College New Ulm MN	Kettle Moraine Lutheran High School Jackson WI Teacher; Physical Education	2/26/2018
Mrs Beth Humann	Holy Trinity LS Des Moines WA	Holy Trinity LS Des Moines WA Teacher; Grade 1	2/28/2018
Miss Kimberly Ehlke	Trinity LS Caledonia WI	Peace LS Hartford WI Teacher; Grade 2	3/4/2018
Mrs Andrea Neumann	St Matthew’s LS Oconomowoc WI	Trinity LS Kaukauna WI Teacher; Kindergarten	3/4/2018
Ms Melody Krause		Trinity LS Kaukauna WI ECM Teacher; Provisional Call	3/4/2018
Mr Duane Vance	Jerusalem LS Morton Grove IL	Apostles LS San Jose CA Principal	3/4/2018
Ms Hannah Stellick	Divine Savior Lutheran Academy Doral FL	St Marcus LS Milwaukee WI Lead Teacher; Grade 4	3/5/2018
Miss Anne Hagglund	Resurrection LS Rochester MN	St Marcus LS Milwaukee WI Co-Lead Teacher; Grade 5	3/5/2018
Mr Nathan Bauer	Garden Homes LS Milwaukee WI	St Marcus LS Milwaukee WI Lead Teacher; Grade 7	3/5/2018
Mr Gabriel Malliet	St John’s LS Burlington WI	Luther Preparatory School Watertown WI Professor; Science	3/6/2018
Mr Steven Haag	First LS Lake Geneva WI	St Lucas LS Kewaskum WI Principal & Grades 5-6	3/7/2018
Mrs Amanda Humann	Lambs of Faith Preschool Tacoma WA	St John LS Mukwonago WI ECM Teacher; Half-Time Call	3/7/2018
Mr Brian Humann	Faith LS Tacoma WA	St John LS Mukwonago WI Teacher; Grades 3-4	3/7/2018
Mr Michael Chappell	Precious Lambs Preschool Jacksonville FL	St John LS Hemlock MI Principal & Upper Grades	3/8/2018
Miss Amanda Koch	Bethany LS Manitowoc WI	Holy Cross LS Madison WI Teacher; Upper Grades, Departmentalized	3/8/2018
Mr Justin Vilski	Prince of Peace LS Taylorsville UT	Prince of Peace LS Taylorsville UT Principal & Grades 6-8	3/8/2018
Mrs Dyann Nommensen	Word of Life LS Milwaukee WI	St Paul LS Cudahy WI Teacher; K5	3/11/2018
Mr Timothy Payne	St John’s LS Newburg WI	Trinity LS Neenah WI Principal & Grades 7-8	3/11/2018
Mrs Naomi Porth	St Philip LS Milwaukee WI	Pilgrim LS Menomonee Falls WI Teacher; Grades 1-2, Half-Time Call	3/11/2018
Mr Henry Hoenecke	Westside Christian School Middleton WI	Crown of Life Christian Academy Fort Myers FL Principal	3/11/2018
Mr Joshua Gorske	St Croix Lutheran Academy West Saint Paul MN	Trinity LS Caledonia WI Teacher; Grade 8	3/11/2018
Mr Jason Rupnow	Risen Savior LS Mankato MN	Trinity LS Caledonia WI Principal	3/11/2018
Mr Adam Reinhard	Little Lambs Preschool Mandan ND	Grace LS Portland OR Teacher; Middle Grades & Staff Minister	3/11/2018
Ms Lynn Marggraf	Northdale LS Tampa FL	Grace LS Portland OR Teacher; Lower Grades	3/11/2018
Mr Benton Witte	Riverview LS Appleton WI	St Paul LS Columbus OH Teacher; Grades 3-4	3/11/2018
Mr Philip Haefner	Trinity LS Bay City MI	St Martin’s LS Watertown SD Principal & Grades 6-8; Departmentalized	3/11/2018
Mr Matthew Groth	St Paul’s LS Saginaw MI	St John’s LS Jefferson WI Teacher; Grades 7-8	3/11/2018
Mr Dane Mattes	Trinity LS Brillion WI	Northdale LS Tampa FL Principal & Grades 7-8	3/11/2018
Mrs Lisa Herlich		Redeemer LS Tucson AZ Teacher; Grades 5-6, Provisional Call	3/11/2018
Mr Michael Peek	Redeemer LS Tucson AZ	Redeemer LS Tucson AZ Director; Christian Education	3/11/2018
Miss Meredith Moeller	St Matthew LS Janesville WI	Redeemer LS Tucson AZ Teacher; Grades 3-4	3/11/2018
Miss Rachel Petermann	Trinity LS Kiel WI	Mt Calvary LS Waukesha WI Teacher; Grade 2	3/11/2018
Mr Perry Lund	Evergreen Lutheran High School Tacoma WA	Peace LS Kissimmee FL Teacher; High School Math & Science	3/11/2018
Miss Jennifer Hunt	Gethsemane LS Omaha NE	Zion LS Monroe MI Teacher; Grades 1-2	3/11/2018
Mrs Ruth Vogt	East Fork LS Whiteriver AZ	St Paul LS Columbus OH Teacher; Kindergarten	3/11/2018
Mr Joel Grulke	Our Savior LS Grafton WI	Mt Olive LS Delano MN Principal & Grades 6-8	3/11/2018
Mr Steven Bremer	Wisconsin Lutheran High School Milwaukee WI	Nebraska Evangelical Lutheran High School Waco NE Principal	3/11/2018
Mrs Tammy Smukowski		St Paul LS Cudahy WI Teacher; K4	3/11/2018
Mr Darren Vogt	East Fork LS Whiteriver AZ	St Paul LS Columbus OH Teacher; Grades 5-6	3/11/2018
Miss Laura Dietrich	Prince of Peace LS Taylorsville UT	Mt Calvary LS Waukesha WI Teacher; Grade 1	3/11/2018
Mrs Nicole Maddox	St Paul LS Rapid City SD	St Paul LS Rapid City SD ECM Director; Three Quarter-Time Call	3/11/2018
Mrs Jennifer Raasch	Pilgrim LS Menomonee Falls WI	Pilgrim LS Menomonee Falls WI ECM Teacher	3/11/2018
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
Mrs Kristin Sternhagen		Rocky Mountain Lutheran High School Commerce City CO Teacher; Part-Time Call	3/11/2018
Mrs Allison Hoffmann	Bethany Lutheran Preschool Saginaw MI	Bethany Lutheran Preschool Saginaw MI ECM Teacher; Part-Time Call	3/11/2018
Mr Jeffrey Schoenherr	Minnesota Valley Lutheran High School New Ulm MN	Divine Savior Lutheran Academy Doral FL Teacher; High School Math	3/13/2018
Miss Rachel Taasaas	St Matthew LS Spokane WA	Divine Savior Lutheran Academy Doral FL Teacher; Grade 1	3/13/2018
Miss Sarah Seelow	St John’s LS Burlington WI	Divine Savior Lutheran Academy Doral FL Teacher; Grade 1	3/13/2018
Mr Joshua Walker	St Paul LS Livonia MI	St Jacobi LS Greenfield WI Principal & Upper Grades; Departmentalized	3/14/2018
Mr Philip Miller	St Paul LS Rapid City SD	St Mark LS Green Bay WI Teacher; Grade 7	3/15/2018
Mrs Emily Platzer	St Paul LS Columbus OH	Our Savior LS Grafton WI Teacher; Grades 1-2, Half-Time Call	3/18/2018
Mr Benjamin Bain	St Paul LS Onalaska WI	St Stephen LS Beaver Dam WI Principal & Upper Grades; Departmentalized	3/18/2018
Mrs Susan Pieper		Martin Luther LS Oshkosh WI Teacher; Grades 1-2	3/18/2018
Miss Cassandra Grys	Emmanuel LS Tempe AZ	St John LS Maribel WI Teacher; Grades 3-5	3/18/2018
Ms Deborah Heiderich	The Genesis Academy Houston TX	St John LS Maribel WI ECM Director	3/18/2018
Mr Russell Klatt	Our Redeemer LS Madison WI	Holy Trinity LS Des Moines WA Teacher; Grades 5-6	3/18/2018
Mr Justin Wasser	Crown of Life LS Warren MI	Mt Calvary-Grace LS La Crosse WI Teacher; Middle/Upper Grades	3/18/2018
Ms Elizabeth Johnson	Christ the King School Palm Coast FL	St John LS Redwood Falls MN Teacher; Grade 2	3/18/2018
Mrs Amy Grulke	Our Savior LS Grafton WI	Mt Olive LS Delano MN Teacher; Kindergarten-Grade 2	3/18/2018
Mr Ryan Obry	Trinity LS Hoskins NE	Samuel LS Marshall MN Principal & Grades 6-8	3/18/2018
Mr Frederick Zimmerman III	St Paul LS Wonewoc WI	Trinity LS Waco NE Principal & Grades 4-8	3/18/2018
Mr Philip Hochmuth	St John LS Maribel WI	St John LS Maribel WI Principal & Grades 6-8	3/18/2018
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
Mr Nicholas Raith	Grace LC Saint Joseph MI	St John LS Libertyville IL Teacher; Grades 7-8	3/19/2018
Miss Kelly Wardell		St Philip LS Milwaukee WI Teacher; Grade 3	3/19/2018
Prof Timothy Wrobel	Luther Preparatory School Watertown WI	Divine Savior Lutheran Academy Doral FL Teacher; High School English	3/19/2018
Miss Katie Koch	Atonement LS Milwaukee WI	St John LS Libertyville IL Teacher; Grades 1-2	3/19/2018
Mr Corey Marohn	St John-St James LS Reedsville WI	St Paul LS Wisconsin Rapids WI Principal	3/19/2018
Ms Deborah Heiderich	The Genesis Academy Houston TX	St Paul LS Wisconsin Rapids WI ECM Director	3/19/2018
Mrs Carol Schoenherr	St Paul LS New Ulm MN	Divine Savior Lutheran Academy Doral FL Teacher; Grade 3	3/19/2018
Mr Scott Anthony	Siloah LS Milwaukee WI	East Fork LS Whiteriver AZ Teacher; Grade 8	3/20/2018
Mrs Darnell Anthony	Siloah LS Milwaukee WI	East Fork LS Whiteriver AZ Teacher; Grade 3	3/20/2018
Mr Ryan Oertel		Wisconsin Lutheran College Milwaukee WI Vice President; Student Life, Provisional Call	3/20/2018
Mrs Alyssa Warnke		Jesus Loves Me Learning Center North Mankato MN ECM Teacher	3/21/2018
Mr Thomas Stelter	Emmanuel LS Tempe AZ	Grace LS Saint Joseph MI Teacher; Grades 5-8, Departmentalized	3/22/2018
Mrs Heidi Groth	Christ-St John’s LS West Salem WI	Samuel LS Marshall MN Teacher; Kindergarten	3/22/2018
Mr Shawn Sprewer		Kingdom Prep Lutheran High School Milwaukee WI Administrator; Provisional Call	3/23/2018
Mr Bradley Evers	Martin Luther LS Oshkosh WI	Apostles LS San Jose CA Teacher; Grade 4	3/25/2018
Mrs Alyssa Warnke		Divine Savior Lutheran Academy Doral FL ECM Teacher	3/25/2018
Mr Robert Ceasar	St Marcus LS Milwaukee WI	Mt Lebanon LS Milwaukee WI Teacher; Grade 4	3/25/2018
Mr Cody Harms	St Marcus LS Milwaukee WI	St Philip LS Milwaukee WI Teacher; Grade 5	3/25/2018
Mrs Amanda Glodowski	St John LC Milwaukee WI	St John LS Milwaukee WI Teacher; Kindergarten	3/25/2018
Mr Andrew Wehausen	St John LS Caledonia MN	St Paul LS Onalaska WI Teacher; Grade 4	3/25/2018
Mr Luther Curia	St Paul LS Howards Grove WI	St John LS Neillsville WI Teacher; Grades 3-5	3/25/2018
Miss Rachel Nowicki	Prairie LS Lower Site Gibbon MN	Good Shepherd Lutheran Academy Deltona FL Teacher; Grade 4	3/25/2018
Mrs Holly Dannecker	St John’s LS Sparta WI	Trinity LS Jenera OH Teacher; Grades 1-2	3/25/2018
Ms Bethany Ehlert	Trusting Hearts Preschool Manitowoc WI	St John’s LS Jefferson WI ECM Director	3/25/2018
Miss Amanda Ehrenberg	St Paul LS South Haven MI	Faith of a Child Daycare Oshkosh WI ECM Director	3/25/2018
Mr Kevin Lemke	Trinity LS Bangor MI	Immanuel LS Salem OR Teacher; Grades 6-8	3/25/2018
Mr Aaron Kjenstad	Trinity LS Aberdeen SD	Grace Lutheran Academy Lowell AR Principal & Upper Grades	3/25/2018
Mr Brent Sorn	Parkland LS Tacoma WA	Mt Olive LS Mankato MN Principal	3/25/2018
Prof David Lecker	Michigan Lutheran Seminary Saginaw MI	Redeemer LS Fond du Lac WI Principal & Grades 7-8	3/25/2018
Miss Kristine Krug	St Paul LS Beverly Hills FL	Zion LS Chesaning MI Teacher; Grades 2-4	3/25/2018
Miss Karen Luehring	Apostles LS San Jose CA	Shepherd of the Valley LS Westminster CO Teacher; Kindergarten-Grade 2	3/25/2018
Mr Aaron Hartwig	St Paul LS North Fond du Lac WI	Shepherd of the Valley LS Westminster CO Principal & Grades 6-8	3/25/2018
Miss Julie Detjen	Fox Valley Lutheran High School Appleton WI	Huron Valley Lutheran High School Westland MI Teacher; English	3/25/2018
Miss Ju Yeon Moon	Beautiful Savior LS Grove City OH	Jerusalem LS Morton Grove IL Teacher	3/25/2018
Mr David Habeck	Trinity LS Caledonia WI	Evergreen Lutheran High School Tacoma WA Teacher; One-Year, Retirement Call	3/25/2018
Miss Lindsay Ernst	Garden Homes LS Milwaukee WI	Divine Savior Lutheran Academy Doral FL ECM Teacher	3/25/2018
Mrs Amy Sullivan		Christ Our Savior LS Rockford MI ECM Teacher; Provisional Call	3/25/2018
Mr Bradley Nommensen	St Paul LS Cudahy WI	Christ Alone LS Thiensville WI Teacher; Grades 3-8, Departmentalized	3/26/2018
Mrs Erin Krebs		St Paul LS Ixonia WI ECM Director; Half-Time Call	3/26/2018
Miss Sarah Howell	Small Steps Christian Learning Center Port Orange FL	Cross of Christ LS Coon Rapids MN ECM Director	3/26/2018
Mr Randy Peck	Our Redeemer LS Madison WI	First German LS Manitowoc WI Principal & Grades 7-8	3/26/2018
Miss Emily Gorzalski	Loving Shepherd LS Milwaukee WI	St Lucas LS Milwaukee WI Teacher; Grade 4	3/27/2018
Miss Elaina Mercier		Grace LS Oshkosh WI ECM Teacher	3/27/2018
Mrs Erin Achey	Zion LS Egg Harbor WI	St John LS Lake City MN Teacher; Grades 1-2	3/27/2018
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
Miss Rachel Nottling	Bethany LS Port Orchard WA	Divine Grace LS Lake Orion MI Teacher; Grades 3-5	3/28/2018
Mr Todd Hackbarth	Lakeside Lutheran High School Lake Mills WI	Illinois Lutheran High School Crete IL Teacher; Math	3/28/2018
Mr Philip Adickes	Zion LS Denver CO	Illinois Lutheran High School Crete IL Teacher; Dean of Students	3/28/2018
Mr Timothy Raddatz	St John LS Wrightstown WI	Trinity LS Marinette WI Principal & Grades 5-8	3/28/2018
Mrs Jennifer Schmiege		Trinity LS Marinette WI Teacher; Grades 2-4	3/28/2018
Mr Guy Gast	Immanuel LS Manitowoc WI	Trinity LS Waukesha WI Teacher; Grade 7	3/28/2018
Mrs Andrea Hunter		Shepherd of the Valley LS Menasha WI Teacher; Grades 7-8, Provisional, Part-Time Call	3/28/2018
Mrs Jennifer Hennen	Wisconsin Lutheran High School Milwaukee WI	Risen Savior LS Milwaukee WI Teacher; Grade 5	3/29/2018
Mrs Renee Jensen	Zion LS Valentine NE	Risen Savior LS Milwaukee WI ECM Teacher	3/29/2018
Mr Joshua Nelson	Christ-St Peter LS-West Campus Milwaukee WI	Wisconsin Lutheran High School Milwaukee WI Teacher; Chemistry	3/29/2018
Mr Kaleb Buch	St Luke LS Oakfield WI	Wisconsin Lutheran High School Milwaukee WI Teacher & Coach	3/29/2018
Staff Ministers	Current call	New call	Date issued
Mr Jonathan Favorite	CrossWalk Lutheran Ministries Laveen AZ	St Peter LC – North Campus Appleton WI Staff Minister	3/7/2018

CALLS ACCEPTED

Pastors	Current call	New call	Date accepted
Rev Stephen Kruschel	Trinity LC Grafton NE Grace LC Geneva NE	St John LC Two Rivers WI Associate Pastor	3/24/2018
Rev N Halldorson	Divine Word LC Nepean ON Canada	Grace LC Scroggins TX Pastor	3/25/2018
Teachers	Current call	New call	Date accepted
Mrs Destinee Fiecko		St Paul LS Wisconsin Rapids WI Teacher; Grades 3-4	3/26/2018
Ms Shakirah Hudson-Cousins		Wisconsin Lutheran High School Milwaukee WI Teacher; Math, Provisional Call	3/27/2018
Mrs Ashley Phillips	St Matthew LS Janesville WI	St Matthew LS Janesville WI Teacher; Grades 1-2, One-Year Call	3/30/2018

CALLS DECLINED

Pastors	Current call	New call	Date declined
Rev Justin Dauck	St Paul LC Roscoe SD St John LC Bowdle SD	Good Shepherd LC Omaha NE Pastor	3/23/2018
Rev Matthew Minzlaff	St John LC Tomah WI St Jacob LC Norwalk WI	New Hope LC Racine WI St Luke LC Kenosha WI Pastor	3/27/2018
Rev Jonathan Brohn	Salem LC Stillwater MN	Nebraska Evangelical Lutheran High School Waco NE Pastor	3/28/2018
Rev Dustin Blumer	Amazing Love LC Frankfort IL	Christ LC Juneau AK Pastor	3/29/2018
Teachers	Current call	New call	Date declined
Mrs Destinee Fiecko		Trinity LS Marshfield WI ECM Teacher	3/26/2018
Mrs Jennifer Trimmer	St Paul LS Columbus OH	Siloah LS Milwaukee WI Teacher; Grade 1	3/26/2018
Miss Jeanine Heller	Martin Luther LS Plzen Czech Republic	Loving Shepherd LS Milwaukee WI Teacher; Grades 3-4	3/27/2018
Mrs Carmen Ristow	Zion LS 3K-8th Grade Hartland WI	Zion LS 3K-8th Grade Hartland WI Teacher; Grades 2-3	3/27/2018
Mr Heath Dobberpuhl	Minnesota Valley Lutheran High School New Ulm MN	Arizona Lutheran Academy Phoenix AZ Teacher; Science	3/27/2018
Mrs Jessica Figueroa		St John-St James LS Reedsville WI ECM Teacher; One-Year, Part-Time Call	3/28/2018
Mr Aaron Krause	Bethany LS Manitowoc WI	Faith LS Antioch IL Principal & Upper Grades; Departmentalized	3/28/2018
Mr Jonathan Rosenow	Risen Savior LS Milwaukee WI	Christ-St Peter LS-East Campus Milwaukee WI Teacher; Grade 1	3/28/2018
Mr Scott Brown	St Paul LS Norfolk NE	Prince of Peace LS Taylorsville UT Teacher; Grades 3-5	3/28/2018
Miss Rachel Struck	Eastside LS Madison WI	East Fork Lutheran High School Whiteriver AZ Teacher & Coach	3/28/2018
Mr Michael Strusz	Winnebago Lutheran Academy Fond du Lac WI	Manitowoc Lutheran High School Manitowoc WI Teacher; Math	3/29/2018
Mr David Fulton	Grace LS Oshkosh WI	St Paul LS Fort Atkinson WI Principal & Grades 5-8; Departmentalized	3/30/2018
Mr Scott Sievert	Illinois Lutheran Elementary School Crete IL	Lord and Savior LS Crystal Lake IL Principal & Grades 5-8	3/31/2018
Mr Daniel Kasten	Bethlehem LS Hortonville WI	St John LS Montello WI Principal & Upper Grades	3/31/2018
Miss Deanna Rahn	Wisconsin LS-Middle School (6-8) Racine WI	Siloah LS Milwaukee WI Teacher; Grade 3	3/31/2018
Mrs Alana Enger	St Paul LS Lake Mills WI	Luther High School Onalaska WI Teacher; Physical Education	4/1/2018

RESIGNED

Teachers	Current call	Date resigned
Mrs Melissa Nehls	MLC Early Childhood Learning Center New Ulm MN	6/30/2018

CALLED TO ETERNAL GLORY

Pastors	Home church	Death date
Rev David Tetzlaff	St Peter’s LC Fond du Lac WI	3/31/2018

RETIREMENT

Pastors	Current call	Date retired
Rev Martin Baur	St Paul LC Wisconsin Rapids WI	5/31/2018
Teachers	Current call	Date retired
Mrs Sandra Woebbeking	St Paul LS Onalaska WI	6/30/2018
Mrs Karla Matter	Bethlehem LS-North Germantown WI	6/30/2018

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View a downloadable pdf version of the call report.

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James 3:13

2018/04/02/in Mobile, Verse of the Day

Who is wise and understanding among you? Let them show it by their good life, by deeds done in the humility that comes from wisdom.

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.

Light for our path: Christian baker sued for not providing a wedding cake for a gay wedding

2018/04/01/in FIC Features, Forward in Christ

Recently there was a news story about a Christian baker who was sued because he would not provide a wedding cake for a gay wedding. Didn’t he miss out on an opportunity to show Christian love and speak truth while still providing a service? Aren’t we supposed to love our neighbor?

James F. Pope

The United States Supreme Court is likely to rule on this case soon. Even without knowing how the outcome of the court’s decision might affect Christians, Scripture can provide guidance for your questions.

Business transactions

Christians do want to “[speak] the truth in love” (Ephesians 4:15) on all occasions. When it comes to marriage, Christians lovingly share the biblical truth that God designed marriage to be the union of one man and one woman (Genesis 2:22-24; Matthew 19:5,6; Romans 7:2).

What happens to that confession of truth when Christians engage in business transactions with people who define marriage differently? When Christians operate businesses, they interact with and provide services for many different people.

Christians will want to understand that their transactions with non-Christian churches or individuals are not endorsements of their doctrines or practices. When Christians sell their products to individuals who self-identify with unscriptural practices or ways of living, they are not necessarily approving or sanctioning the actions of their customers. If that were the case, then Christians would need potential customers to fill out an application form so they would not be guilty of doing business with those whose lifestyles or opinions were not Christian.

But there may come a time when Christians will refuse to be a partner in what is contrary to the will of God or will bring harm to others. A Christian will consider the role of conscience and will want to refrain from sinning against his or her conscience (Romans 14:23). Deciding what to do is not always easy. Christians will wish to choose opportunities to act as disciples of Jesus and to speak the truth in love, but one size does not fit all situations.

None of my business

When it comes to your questions, 1 Corinthians 5:12,13 is helpful in providing direction for Christians’ interactions with unbelievers: “What business is it of mine to judge those outside the church? Are you not to judge those inside? God will judge those outside.” Those words come in the context of the apostle Paul’s directing the Christians in Corinth to take action with a church member who was impenitent over an incestuous relationship. The apostle instructed the Corinthians to implement what Jesus said in Matthew chapter 18: “If your brother or sister sins . . .” (vv. 15-18). Church discipline involves those within the church. We have no specific instructions from God on addressing personal sins in the lives of those outside the church.

Certainly, those words from 1 Corinthians chapter 5 do not mean that we close our eyes and ears to what is going on in the world. What those words mean is that the church does not have the responsibility or divine mandate to discipline people who are not part of the church.

So, where does this leave us? Yes, we want to love our neighbor, but because there is no manual that spells out in detail how best to live a life of neighborly love, Christians will wrestle with questions like the one you asked. They will seek to arrive at decisions that agree with biblical principles and that do not violate consciences. They will also seek to refrain from judging the motives of fellow Christians who arrive at different decisions.

Contributing editor James Pope, professor at Martin Luther College, New Ulm, Minnesota, is a member at St. John, New Ulm.

James Pope also answers questions online at wels.net/questions. Submit your questions there or to [email protected].

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Author: James F. Pope
Volume 105, Number 04
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

Salt of the earth: Part 10

2018/04/01/in FIC Features, Forward in Christ

When we are hurt, we want to hurt whoever hurt us. God has a different way for his people.

Bruce A. McKenney

It was the ultimate example of not repaying evil with evil.

A lifelong faithful Christian was nearing death, dying of cancer at home under the care of hospice. No matter what we read from the Scriptures or what hymns we sang, he just seemed so restless and didn’t want to listen. He wouldn’t even fold his hands to pray. His wife and I were perplexed at how troubled he seemed.

Finally, when I had a few moments of privacy with him, I asked, “What in all the world is bothering you that makes you so restless?”

Then it came out. Early in their marriage he had committed an act of infidelity and he had never told his wife. And now, as he faced death, his past sin was haunting him as well as the fear of going to hell. I encouraged him to tell his wife and seek her forgiveness.

That moment finally came. Tearfully he confessed to his wife what he had done. He then told her how sorry he was. For him, it was the ultimate act of betrayal, and I didn’t know how she was going to react. I could see her clenching her jaws as he spoke. I thought that, surely, she would start yelling at him or cursing the day she had met him. Or maybe she would just keep silent, making him squirm even more in his guilt and fear.

But she didn’t do either. Although his past act hurt her deeply, she stood up, leaned over, and kissed him, saying, “I forgive you, honey, and Jesus forgives you too!”

The tears came flooding from his eyes. You could almost see the weight of that guilt and shame fall off his shoulders.

Do not take revenge

Although not every wrong committed against us will be as serious as the act of unfaithfulness in marriage, wrongs do hurt, and they can come from friend or foe, from believer and unbeliever alike. When others hurt us, there is a natural tendency to want to get even. The world and our sinful hearts look upon revenge as something sweet. But that is not true, and that is not what our Savior wants from us. We have been called to be salt of the earth and light in the world.

One way we can do this is by not repaying evil with evil, but by repaying it with good. Paul explains it this way “Do not repay anyone evil for evil. Be careful to do what is right in the eyes of everyone. . . . Do not take revenge, my dear friends, but leave room for God’s wrath, for it is written: ‘It is mine to avenge; I will repay,’ says the Lord. On the contrary: ‘If your enemy is hungry, feed him; if he is thirsty, give him something to drink. In doing this, you will heap burning coals on his head’ ” (Romans 12:17,19,20).

First of all, Paul reminds us that we are to love others because we have been loved by God. And how did God ultimately show his love for us? Rather than taking out his anger, his revenge, on us for all the wrongs we have done against him and others, he took it out on his own Son! We were his enemies, and yet he was willing to send his Son to die and take the punishment for us.

Such amazing love from God gives us the reason and the strength not to repay evil with evil. No better example of this can be given than that of our Savior himself. Think of how he responded to those who were beating and crucifying him! If someone ever had justifiable reason to strike back, it was Jesus, the Son of God. But what did he do? He prayed, “Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they are doing” (Luke 23:34). That is how we want to be salt and light too. “Forgive as the Lord forgave you” (Colossians 3:13).

Another reason for avoiding revenge is because it is not our place to mete out justice. It is God’s. That is what Paul was getting at when he wrote, “Leave room for God’s wrath.” When we take matters into our own hands by trying to make others pay for what they have done to us, we carry a burden we don’t need to carry and have no right to carry. As God’s people, we are to live at peace with others, always keeping in mind that we are all in the hands of the Lord who will take care of all things and bring everything into line with his justice in his own time and in his own way.

Repay evil with love

Living at peace with our loved ones is challenging enough. Living at peace with our enemies is even more difficult. So, if we are not to repay evil with evil, what are we to do? Repay it with kindness. When our enemy hungers, we feed him. If he thirsts, we quench it. In so doing, Paul says, we will heap coals of fire on their heads.

There are a number of ways to understand these words. Have you ever been touched by a hot burning coal? It can leave a red burn mark. Maybe Paul’s point is that when we repay evil with kindness the person reacts with burning anger: “I meant to hurt you. How dare you try to be nice to me.” Such hard-hearted reaction to kindness can be part of God’s judgment on our enemies. Such reactions make plain to all, especially to God, who indeed is in the wrong.

Or, when we repay evil with kindness that person’s face might blush in shame, possibly leading them to repentance! Isn’t that what happens to us when we sin against God for the umpteenth time, and yet his forgiveness is always there? We sing about that in a Lenten hymn, “Thus might I hide my blushing face while his dear cross appears, dissolve my heart in thankfulness and melt my eyes to tears” (Christian Worship 129:4). Isn’t that what we want most for those who hurt us, especially our enemies? Jesus said that this is the ultimate goal in doing good. “Let your light shine before others, that they may see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven” (Matthew 5:16). How much greater our effectiveness as salt when we flavor life with forgiveness and love, and how much greater our light shines in repaying evil with good!

That is what happened that day on my member’s deathbed. He had sinned against his wife. He had hurt her deeply. But she didn’t strike back. She didn’t take revenge. She didn’t repay evil with evil. Rather she forgave. That forgiveness dissolved his heart in thankfulness and melted his eyes to tears. Mine too.

Bruce McKenney is pastor at St. Paul, Lake Mills, Wisconsin.

This is the tenth article in a 12-part series about Christian love in action and how we can be salt in this world.

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Author: Bruce A. McKenney
Volume 105, Number 4
Issue: April 2018

Copyrighted by WELS Forward in Christ © 2021
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God’s gift of groaning

2018/04/01/in FIC Features, Forward in Christ

We live by faith, not by sight. 2 Corinthians 5:7

Peter M. Prange

“Don’t get too comfortable.” I offer that guidance to my children when we’ve got someplace to go. Don’t take off your shoes. Don’t even remove your jackets. Be prepared when it’s time to head out the door. Simply put, don’t get too comfortable.

We like comfortable, though, don’t we? It appeals to us. But bodily comfort can be damaging to the human soul. It can so easily serve as a tranquilizer to Christian faith, lulling us to spiritual sleep. Bodily comfort can be dangerous, even deadly.

Avoiding comfort

That’s why Jesus responded the way he did to the rich man who thought he had everything he needed stored up for many years. Jesus scolded him. “You fool! This very night your life will be demanded from you. Then who will get what you have prepared for yourself?” (Luke 12:20). That wretched fool had put his hope in the comfortable things of this world—a deadly decision. It’s why our Lutheran forefathers taught their people to pray for the Lord Jesus to rescue them from luxury, because luxury can be so poisonous.

Who in their right mind would offer such a prayer? Only someone who lives by faith and not by sight. Someone like St. Paul.

The apostle had learned from experience that Jesus uses groaning to serve our ultimate good. Ironically, groaning is a gift from God. It’s as if Jesus has put us up in tents in this world, and “while we are in this tent, we groan and are burdened.” But our gracious Savior has his reasons. It’s no mistake. Indeed, he “fashioned us for this very purpose.”

And what is his purpose? He doesn’t want us to get too comfortable. Instead, he wants us to be prepared for that remarkable moment when all our dying and groaning is “swallowed up by life” once and for all. Then we will trade in our quickly-expiring earthly existence for “our heavenly dwelling” that is truly imperishable (2 Corinthians 5:4,5).

Jesus’ main life lesson is this: We are called to “live by faith, not by sight,” so we shouldn’t get too comfortable here. Our Savior has far greater things in store for us, and those divine gifts will last forever. Then the groaning stops, and true, wholesome, and eternal comfort begins in Christ.

Embracing our cross

It’s the central scriptural truth that a young friar named Martin Luther discovered in the monastery and then proclaimed to his dying day. He called it “our theology,” the theology of the cross. In April 1518—five hundred years ago this month—Brother Martin presented the cross-centered theology he found in Holy Scripture to a group of monks and scholars gathered in the German city of Heidelberg. His words caused a stir, and the reason was simple. They ran so counter to our broken and backward worldly thinking. Young Luther was imploring his listeners to heed the urgings of St. Paul to “live by faith, not by sight.”

But we sinners prefer comfortable. The sooner, the better. Even St. Paul had to admit that about himself, because he was a sinner too. But Jesus opens our spiritual eyes to see the divine purpose behind our groaning, behind our suffering, behind our lack of comfort in this world. It’s no accident. It’s no divine oversight. It has a godly purpose, and that purpose is good.

Our groaning compels us to live by faith, not by sight, and the comfort of that blessed faith is eternal.

Contributing editor Peter Prange is pastor at Bethany, Kenosha, Wisconsin.

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SUBSCRIBE TO FORWARD IN CHRIST

Get inspirational stories, spiritual help, and synod news from Forward in Christ every month. Print and digital subscriptions are available from Northwestern Publishing House.

Author: Peter M. Prange
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

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