Section D — Reports of the Officers and Council Committees

As trustees of the synod (Bylaws, Part VII), the synod council supervises and evaluates the mission and ministry of the synod. This section describes how these duties are carried out and the results of these actions.

Synod Council Chair better stewardship of human resources. Structural renewal, guided by the Holy Spirit, to borrow a Dear Brothers & Sisters who make up the Synod of seminary slogan, “Faithful for the Future” is about and the Territories, hope. I came that they may have life, Direction comes from the women and men, and lay and and have it abundantly. - John 10:10b rostered, who have answered the Holy Spirit’s call to These words of Our Lord, remembered by John, are serve as leaders. Expressly, each of our five among my favourite in all of Scripture. These are words conferences have a lay and a rostered representative of relationship, of hope and of direction. It is with this who serves as a member of Synod Council. They are: understanding that I offer my report. Southwestern: Jennifer Laurendeau Last summer the ELCIC in convention passed several Rev. Julianne Barlow motions to create a more inclusive Church - these East Central: Marilyn Murray motions have caused controversy resulting in some Rev. Paul McCormick congregations leaving us: our Synod was particularly West Central Gail Berg hard hit. Yet over 100 congregations, regardless of Rev. Gary Aicken their views on these new policies concerning human Northern Norm Olson sexuality, have remained. I want to believe that there is Rev. Markus Wilhelm among us a shared belief that what we have in Southern Wayne Street common absolutely outweighs anything that could Rev. Julianne Wehrfritz-Hanson divide us. We share a relationship with a loving, Synod Council also has a dedicated executive: Brenda forgiving, hope-giving God revealed in Jesus Christ. Visser - Secretary; Stephen Wildfang - Treasurer; Rev. We are under -girded by three profound statements of Ron Mayan - Bishop; Rev. Tim Posyluzny - Chair. Rev. belief - the Nicene Creed, the Apostles’ Creed, and the David Holmes (ACC) brings us insight as our full Athanasian Creed. We have a denominational theology communion partner representative. At Synod Council explained in the documents of the Book of Concord of meetings our National Church Council (NCC) is 1580. These documents which include the Unaltered represented by Barb Stolee, Allyn Langager, and Rev. Augsburg Confession, Luther’s Small Catechism, and Trish Schmermund who in turn represent us. the Apology of the Augsburg Confession, all point us to our need for and freedom to rely on the gift of grace. Leadership at the conference level is provided by God loves us, warts and all. This commonality is the deans and a conference council. I have invited the basis of a lasting relationship. deans to share something good and/or forward-looking happening in their conference. Here’s their sharing: Structural renewal is not a feeble attempt to plug a hole Rev. Dennis Aicken - in a sinking ship - structural renewal is about mission. Abundant Life Lutheran that mission is the sharing of the Gospel, working for Church, NW was officially organized justice, and supporting our lay and rostered leadership. September 25, 2011 which Bishop Mayan notes as the I see this happening as congregations are intentionally first new congregation welcomed within our Synod connected with each other in newly created areas since his election in 2006/ Monthly Lutheran Youth together with the encouragement of area team leaders. events across our conference have considerable Three synods and a triennial convention schedule will momentum as teens gather to grow in faith and allow for both a streamlined system of governance and develop new friendships.

Section D — Page 1 Rev. Brad Everett - In the wake of July, 2011 there has “ Lutheran” insert; office staff - Kathy Budgell and been a renewed interest in our cluster gatherings. It’s a Trudy Davis and our senior synod staff - Sharon Villetard for time for worship, study and conversation, support and providing so much of the glue, Assistant to the Bishop, The encouragement. There is a sense of a ministerium. Rev. Dr. Larry Kochendorfer for a gentle and strong presence, and to Bishop Ron for bearing such a heavy yoke. Rev. Eleanor Ness - In the coming year, the East Central Conference is focusing on the renewal of its We have direction. Relationship, hope and direction are gifts congregations and people s it continues with Bishop given us by a Lord who desires an abundant life for His Ron’s “Evangelizing the Church” project. Just as the Church and each one of us who make up this synod. snows in March brought needed moisture for the fields, Respectfully Submitted, pastures and gardens of our conference, so to is God’s The Rev. Tim Posyluzny, STM Spirit working to nourish and strengthen the people of Synod Chairperson this Conference through word and sacrament and a spirit of love and service to all who live within the conference. It has not been easy for the congregations to work through the issues raised by the 2011 ELCIC SECRETARY’S REPORT National Convention, but God’s healing presence has A .The following meetings of the Synod Council were been and is being felt. The commitment to being God’s held with actions reported in Sections B - D of this people in the place each congregation is located is report: strong. June 3, 2010 Rev. Markus Wilhelm - David Petterson is now an “urban June 6, 2010 missionary”, commissioned by the Synod. It speaks to the June 22, 2010 (electronic vote) diversity in our conference. We’re not all the same, nor July 12, 2010 (conference call) should we be. I’m also impressed with Pastor Reimer’s October 19, 2010 (electronic vote) campus ministry at the U of A and Lutheran Student November 26, 2010 Movement. There is spirit and drive as evidenced by the December 7, 2010 (electronic vote) student house renovations. And we appreciate the ministry March 25, 2011 provided by Anne Zimmerman and “On Eagle’s Wings”. Spring, 2011 (electronic votes) The Rev. John Lentz - Many hands attached to many good September 23, 2011 hearts at St. Paul’s, Olds eagerly proclaim Christ in word and Fall 2011, Winter 2012 (electronic votes) deed. A number of ladies and a few good men who venture March 23, 2012 into the Annual Quilting Bee have outdone themselves yet The following Executive Committee meetings were held, with again. They’ve put together over 80 quilts; over 80 CLWR actions ratified at a subsequent meeting of the Council: ‘We Care" kits; an older gentleman (of 90) produced over 200 cloth bandage rolls (300 was his target but he passed to his September 7, 2010 risen life before reaching that goal); and the Sunday School December 9, 2011 put together 20 - 30 Kiddie3 Kits. The quilting has gathered B. Appointments such attention, we have some helpers now from the community at large. A wonderful annual act of giving! SC10-38 To appoint the following to serve as the next Review of the Bishop’s Performance Committee: And at Camp Kuriakos and Mulhurst, programming continues Pastor Gary Aicken, Pastor Paul McCormick, Wayne to form and inform our young people...and older people alike. Street and Gail Berg. An example of this is Camp Kuriakos’ Adventure trip - “A Week in the Woods I” and a “Week in the Woods II”. SC10-45 That The Rev. David Holmes be appointed to serve as the full communion partner on the Synod All these women and men deserve our thanks for their Council with seat, voice and vote. (This is with leadership; and when you encounter them please do share reference to Part VII. Section 1 and Article IX, Section some expression of appreciation. 1.) Of course, a warm word of thanks and appreciation needs to SC10-47 That Council appoints Frank Thede and Arnie go to all our synod staff: the deployed part-time staff - Rev. Reimer to the Constitutional Review Committee for a Renita Falkenstern and Rev. Ryan Andersen, social ministry term of four years. (Arnie Reimer did not accept coordinators and Colleen McGinnis who edits our synod’s appointment.)

Section D — Page 2 SC11-46 That the following be appointed to the • Florence Wind - year 3 Committee for Theological Education and Leadership SC11-17 That Pastor Gary Watts be granted “retired” with terms to expire as indicated: status, effective June 30, 2010 • The Rev. Susan Horton (2016) SC11-18 That Pastor Tim Posyluzny be granted “retired” • Darcy Calkins (2016) status, effective May 31, 2011. • Greg Lingelback (2014) SC11-19 That Pastor Alvin Oberhammer be granted C. Calls Issues and Roster Status “retired” status, effective Oct. 1, 2010. SC10-24 To grant The Rev. Kung Kim Wong retired SC11-20 That Pastor Horst Aechtner be granted “retired” status. status, effective May 1, 2011. SC10-26 To issue a call to The Rev. Dr. Larry SC11-23 That The Rev. Kathleen Schmitke be called to Kochendorfer as Assistant to the Bishop. The call to be special service - interim ministry. co-terminus with that of the Bishop. SC11-24 That The Rev. Karl Hedlin be removed from the SC10-30 To grant retired status to The Rev. David Morck roster. as of August 31, 2010. SC11-27 That the Rev. Kenn Ward be granted the status SC10-48 That the Rev. Mark Hornig be called to special of ‘retired’ effective May 31, 2011 service - chaplaincy. SC11-28 That The Rev. Cindy Ninow be called to special SC11-10 That Philip Penrod be received onto the roster service - chaplaincy. of the Alberta Synod when he has completed his SC11-29 That The Rev. Rick Laurendeau be granted the studies and has received and accepted a valid call. status of “retired”. SC11-11 That Aaron Schnell be received onto the roster SC11-30 That Diaconal Minister Florence Irene of the Alberta Synod when he has completed his Wind-Riddell be granted the status of “retired”. studies and has received and accepted a valid call. SC11-37 That Pastor Rod McLeish be granted the status SC11-12 That since Sarah Rudd has completed her of ‘retired’ as of October 31, 2011. studies and has received and accepted a valid call, that Sarah be added to the diaconal ministry roster of the SC11-38 That Pastor David Larsen be granted the status Alberta Synod. of ‘retired’ as of December 31, 2011. SC11-13 That arrangements be made to prepare Dyanna SC11-52 That The Rev. Robert Deobald be granted the Noble for licensed ministry. status of “retired” as of January 28, 2012. SC11-15 That the following ordained persons be granted SC11-53 That a call to special service be extended to ‘on leave’ status as indicated: The Rev. Steven Rye. • Glen Bergson - year 2 SC12-01 That Marc Jerry be added to the ordained roster • Peter Dubourt - year 3 of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in Canada upon completion of his studies; and after having received and • Rebekah Eckert - parental, year 4 accepted a valid call. • Tim Graff - year 1 SC12-02 That Deborah Kerr be added to the ordained • Cindy Ninow - year 3 roster of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in Canada • Karl Johnsen - year 1 after having received and accepted a valid call. • Marty Tuer - year 4 SC12-03 That Kierra Maher be added to the diaconal • Michael Wellunscheg - yr 3 roster of the ELCIC upon having received and having accepted a valid call. SC11-16 That the following diaconal ministers be granted ‘on leave’ status as indicated: SC12-04 That Kierra Maher be extended a call from Synod Council to special service (chaplaincy). • Monica Denk - year 1 SC12-15That the following ordained clergy be granted “on • Julie Hink - year 1 leave from call” status as indicated:

Section D — Page 3 • Glen Bergson - year 3 the ELCIC to Faith Evangelical Lutheran Church, Slave • Peter Dubourt - removed from roster Lake. • Rebekah Eckert - removed from roster SC10-31 That the Synod Compensation Guidelines for • Tim Graff - year 2 2011 be approved as presented. • Karl Johnsen - year 2 • SC10-34 That an amendment to Bylaw Part III.5.i be Greg Kern - year 1 presented to the next convention, including the word • Marty Tuer - removed from roster “rostered minister” in the last sentence, so that the • Michael Wellunscheg - removed from roster sentence reads: • Glen Widdis - year 1 • “Upon the request of the congregational council, the Cindy Ninow - year 1 rostered minister, or on receipt of a petition signed by at SC12-16` That the following rostered diaconal ministers least one-third of the voting members of a congregation, be granted “on leave from call” status as indicated: the bishop shall appoint an advisory committee to investigate.” • Monica Denk - year 2 SC10-37 That the Synod Council offer Bishop Ron a • Julie Hink - year 2 compensation package increase of 5.5% effective for • Karen Triomphe - year 1 the 2011 fiscal year. SC 12-17 That Ascension Lutheran Church, Calgary and SC10-43 That the Convention Petition regarding The Rev. KI. Glen Johnson be removed from the roster nomination of synod councillors be inserted into the of the Synod of Alberta and the Territories “Convention Manual” in the area of “Nominations”. SC12-19 That the draft of the audited statements SC10-44 That the Lutheran Hospital Ministries - Southern prepared by Vanderschee Koebel Ouellette LLP Alberta be endorsed by the Synod. Chartered Accountants, including the transfer to thye reserve of $5,926., be adopted as presented. SC10-46 That the congregational constitution submitted by Bethany Lutheran Church, Tilley be approved with SC12-20 That Vanderschee Koebel Ouellette LLP the conditions recommended. Chartered Accountants be appointed as the synod’s auditors for 2012. SC11-03 That the Conference of Bishops be invited to examine the pension disparity between those serving in SC12-21 That gratitude to Stephen Wildfang be large centres and those serving in rural centres. expressed for the excellent leadership he offers with respect to financial matters of the Synod. SC11- 04 That the draft of the audited statements prepared by Vanderschee Koebel Ouellette LLP SC12-22 That the following items related to the Chartered Accountants, including the transfer to the Convention be approved: reserve of $118,897, be adopted as presented. a. That Brenda Visser be recommended to the SC11-05 That the proposed budget for 2011 be adopted Convention for election to the office of secretary; as presented. b. That the offerings from the Convention worship SC11-14 That the constitutional amendments submitted services be designated to the ELCIC Praise Appeal; by Ascension Lutheran Church, Calgary be approved. c. That the date and place of the next synod convention SC11-25 That the revised Convention Manual be be determined after re-structuring decisions have approved as presented. been made; SC11-35 That the Terms of Reference for the Synod d. That the petitions required fro approval of Reserve Funds be approved as presented. re-structuring be added to the delegates’ packets when approved by the Synod Implementation Team. SC11-39 That the 2012 Convention agenda be approved in principle. D. Administrative Decisions SC11-40 That Synod Council endorses cooperation with SC10-29 That the Synod provide a guarantee to a the Anglican Diocese of Calgary to provide full-time maximum of $250,000. of the LIFE loans extended by campus ministry at the University of Calgary.

Section D — Page 4 SC11-41 That Synod Council recognizes the The mission of this church, as an instrument of the Holy re-alignment of the Holy Cross, Okotoks and Good Spirit, is to bring the Gospel of Jesus Christ to all people Shepherd, High River congregations into the new High through the proclamation of the Word, the River/ Okotoks Parish. administration of the Sacraments and service in Christ’s name. SC11-44 That the constitutional amendment of the following congregations be approved: The Synod of Alberta and the Territories, in faithfulness to the Lord of the church, will facilitate and advance the • Bardo, ; mission of this church within its territory. • Christ the King, Ft. McMurray; • Guided and empowered by the Holy Spirit, we will carry Peace, Leduc; out this mission by shepherding our congregations and • St. John’s, Barrhead rostered workers (ordained and diaconal ministers), and SC11-45 That the amendments to the constitution of Holy by engaging in other forms of ministry which proclaim Spirit, be approved. God’s Word and serve to bring reconciliation to the world. SC11-47 That the Companion Synod Covenant be renewed for another three years, with re-evaluation to SC12-12 That the amendments made to the constitution take place in 2015. of Trinity Lutheran Church, be adopted. SC11-48 That the Synod Compensation Guidelines for SC12-13 That the amendments made to their constitution 2012 be approved as presented. by St. Paul’s Lutheran Church, Edmonton (Millcreek) are not in conflict with the constitutions of the ELCIC or SC11-49 That Vanderschee Koebel Ouellette LLP the Synod, and are therefore, approved. Chartered Accountants be appointed as the Synod’s auditors for 2011. SC12-14 That the parish alignment between St. John’s Evangelical Lutheran Church, Alberta Beach; Trinity SC11-50 That the 2012 Synod Convention budget of Lutheran Church, Onoway and Emmaus Lutheran $68,000 be approved as presented. Church, be dissolved. SO11-01 That up to $10,000 be approved for expenses SC12-24 That the “Guidelines for Dissolution of a related to the visit of Bishop Eduardo Martinez D. and Congregation” be adopted guests from the Evangelical Lutheran Church of Colombia. Proposed Guidelines for Dissolution of a Congregation SO11-02 That up to $5,000 be provided for re-vamping Congregations go through cycles which may include the and updating the Synod website. difficult decision to close because of diminished membership, little or no opportunity for outreach, and inadequate financial SO11-03 That $25,000 be made available to fund a rural support. The members will experience a variety of emotions internship in 2012 - 2013. during this time so it is important that there is opportunity for SC11-51 That Synod Council approve up to $36,000 for discussion, and communication of the steps which will be Campus Ministry house renovations in addition to the taken as the congregation makes the final decisions. $50,000 committed by 2010 Convention action. Throughout the process the members are asked to pray for God’s leading so that the congregation may be united in SC12-06 That the proposed budget be presented to the discerning what decision is best. convention for approval. (See Budget Report in Section D) Early in the process the synod office should be notified so that there can be consultation on the future of the SC12-07 That Sunday, May 20 be designated as “Praise congregation, looking at possible alternatives to closing, and Sunday” in support of ELCIC benevolence. what steps are involved in the dissolution of a congregation. SC12-08 That the Synod Council grant Bishop Ron an Steps in the Dissolution of a Congregation extended sabbatical for the time period from March 25 to October 31, 2012. 1. In consultation with the synod staff, develop a plan for the dissolution of the congregation and the related SC12-09 That the Council amend it’s Core Mission so resolutions to be brought to a special meeting of the that it reads: congregation which shall require approval by a two thirds majority of members present and voting:

Section D — Page 5 a. The stated effective date of dissolution; b. Provision for payment of liabilities/assets; c. Authorization of officers to carry out the proper transfer of title, disposition of property, furnishings, contents as mandated by the congregation; and d. Provision for dissolution of the corporation (if incorporated). 2. Provide pastoral support for the transfer/commendation of members to other congregations. 3. In consultation with the synod staff, arrange for the maintenance and security of properties not transferred or disposed. 4. File the necessary documents with government authorities to dissolve the corporate status of the congregation (if incorporated) and with the Division Charities of the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA). 5. Make arrangements, where appropriate for the care and upkeep of the cemetery, including: – determination of clear title of land involved, – completion of any corporate details, ·selection of trustees, and – disposition of any excess land. 6. Gather and transfer historical materials and congregations records (parish register, documents related to property, endowments, bequests and restricted gifts, annual reports, minutes, pictures, correspondence of historical significance) to the synod archives. 7. Consider any additional matters such as the congregation being part of a multipoint parish. 8. With the assistance of the synod staff, plan a service of celebration and thanksgiving for the years of ministry of the congregation. 9. Formally notify the synod staff that all these steps have been properly completed. (ABT Synod Guidelines, prepared by Bishop Don Sjoberg, adapted from Eastern Synod Steps in the Dissolution of a Congregation, March 30, 2012)

Section D — Page 6 spending is reduced by $21,400 from 2011 budget; $12,000 Report Of The Treasurer combined reduction from Canadian Mission and Campus Ministry, and the remainder from other programming. The remaining spending reductions are made in the commitments Financial highlights to National Church and Seminary. Since the 2010 convention benevolence giving by The Synod in convention is requested to approve the overall congregations has declined by $127,000, fully 13.5% less proposed annual spending amounts as presented. than just two years ago. Most shocking was that nearly $120,000 of this was felt in the last half of 2011. The Respectfully, comparative decline in benevolence was about $10,000 in Stephen Wildfang, CA each of 2009 and 2010, so the 2011 decline of more than ten times that in one year was beyond our expectation. Program and synod support costs were within budget tolerances and the brunt of the 2011 shortfall was borne by National Church support; remittance to the ELCIC was $95000 less than budgeted for 2011. We will be monitoring the income situation continuously for 2012 and should the trend indicate a further significant benevolence decline Council will consider whether further budget reductions are required for 2012. But the picture is not all doom and gloom: • We have a reserve fund of $475,000 and another $60,000 of additional surplus. This is fully funded by cash and term deposits. This will help in making the transition to the current fiscal reality. • In 2011 we provided scholarships of $39,000 to support the tuition costs of seminarians. • We still provide significant funding for Canadian Mission and Campus Ministry programming from our program budget Synod Council has approved the audited financial statements for 2011 and these include comparative results for 2010. These audited financial statements are presented for adoption by convention.

Recommended Budgets Coming forward into 2012 we must address a new fiscal reality. Our governance policy precludes us from operating with a budgeted deficit. Using best estimates for 2012 revenue a benevolence amount of $810,000 is projected. Based on the forecast revenue spending commitments must be addressed to balance the 2012 budget. Synod support costs for 2012 are budgeted to be $443,850. This is a “hold the line” approach - recognizing that our staffing commitments and fixed costs to run the office do not provide room for significant spending reductions at this time. An 8% reduction in Canadian Mission spending and a 9% reduction in Campus Ministry spending are recommended. On a combined basis these two programs account for over 70% of current program spending. Overall budgeted programming

Section D — Page 7 Synod of Alberta and the Territories

Proposed Operating Budgets for 2012 to 2013

Section D — Page 8 Section D — Page 9 Section D — Page 10 Section D — Page 11 Section D — Page 12 UNA HAUGEN, 85, died 5 September 2010 in AB. Wife of REPORT OF NECROLOGIST Pastor Fred Haugen, they were married the year of his If you learn of someone who has died and has served this ordination and served parishes in Cabri SK 1949-52, synod or its predecessors, please let the Necrologist or Ponoka AB 1952-8, Estevan SK 1958-64, ELCC National Synod Office know so that these people and their information Office 1964-6, Prince George BC 1966-68, Lutheran may be noted and remembered. Information is sometimes Collegiate Bible Institute in Outlook SK 1968-72, Naicam limited to start with, so the skills of a detective are often SK 1972-9, Weyburn SK 1979-85, and finally in Provost needed to complete a person’s information and therefore AB where he first interned. Following retirement came your help is always welcome. Rostered personnel and interim ministries in Cold Lake, Tilley, and Stettler AB. spouses are encouraged to maintain their biographical Pr. MARK INNES, 79, died 8 September 2010 in Calgary AB. information with Synod Office. He served parishes of St. Matthew’s/Welland ON 1960-63, Keeping in mind the comfort from the message of Christ and Emmanuel/Scarborough ON 1963-68, Faith/Deep River Easter, we remember since the lead-up to the 2010 Synod ON 1968-75, Christ The King/Thornhill ON 1975-79, Convention, these Servants and keep their loved ones in our Resurrection/Halifax NS 1979-90; retirement followed in thoughts and prayers: Calgary AB. ELINOR RASMUSSEN, 78, died 13 May 2009 in Red Deer Pr. OSBORNE (Ozzie) OLSEN, 94, died 4 October 2010 in AB. Wife of Pr. Don Rasumssen, she served her church Surrey, BC. He served parishes of Peace/Fort St. John as congregational church secretary and in the Sunday BC, Grace/Dawson Creek BC, North Rolla/Rolla BC, St. School, as well as president of ELW over the years and Olaf/Swift Current SK, Our Saviour’s/Prince George BC, youth worker, and as a faithful companion and steady Mount Olive/White Rock, BC, Central Lutheran/ Edmonton influence as wife of a pastor in congregational life in the AB, and Emmanuel and Atonement/Vancouver BC. parishes of: Simmie SK, Zion/Weyburn SK, Verwood & Pr. STEFAN RADKE, 40, died 6 November 2010 in Cold Naicum SK, and Bethany/Dickson AB. Lake AB. He served parishes in Trinity/Quinton and Grace Pr. HENRY TRAWNY, 97, died 15 April 2010 in Wahoo NE. Aarnes/Wynard SK 2000-03; then to Lakeland/Cold Lake He served parishes of: Rosevear AB 1938-40, Flatbush AB 2003-10, before leaving the ministry to fulfill a dream of AB 1942-46, Onoway/Calahoo/Alberta Beach AB, starting a pet store. Davin/Kronau/ Vibank SK; and then moved to ministries Pr. CONRAD KNOCH, 86, died 21 December 2010 in Devon within the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America until his AB. He was ordained 20 May 1960, and served parishes retirement in Nebraska. of Peace/Moosehorn MB, Redeemer/Hanna AB, Pr. VERNON SWENSON, 86, died 23 July 2010 in Marquette Zion/Jansen SK, Hope/Forestburg AB, Redeemer/Hanna MI. He served as Long Term Missionary in Tanzania, AB, and St. Paul Lutheran Home in Melville SK. Africa 1954-69 and in Liberia, Africa 1973-76, as Principal Retirement followed in the Saskatchewan Synod; and and Teacher, co-op developer, leprosarium farm manager, later, he resided with his daughter in Devon AB. parish pastor, seminary lecturer; then in parishes of Iowa FRIEDA EUGENE STURDY WILKE, 91, died 6 January and Kansas 1969-73; in Bethany/Hughenden and 2011 in Victoria BC. Together with her husband Pr. Arnold Peace/Wainwright AB 1976-85; in Trinity/Westlock AB; R. Wilke, they served parishes in Shell Lake SK, Bashaw and again in Kansas 1985-95. Following retirement he did AB, Northmark AB, Jasper Place AB, AB, interim ministries in Kansas, and helped develop a lay AB, Edmonton AB, and at ministries programme and training events for rural Redeemer/Vancouver BC. declining-population areas. Pr. DON HALL, 59, died 6 June 2011 in Calgary AB. With a Pr. ARTHUR ERNEST DAHLEN, 84, died 7 August 2010 in strong interest in the study and practice of mission in the Calgary AB. He served parishes of: Trinity/Starbuck MB, parish and the world, he was ordained on 25 June 1986 Asker/Ponoka AB, Trinity/Foremost AB, Zion/Bow Island and served Peace/Leduc 1986-97, and Holy Cross/ AB, Elim/Frontier SK, Salem/Kingman AB, Okotoks AB 1997-06. In 2006, he went on the Christ/ AB, Trondhjem/Round Hill AB, roster-status of disability where he remained until his Granum/Granum AB, and White Valley/Shaunavon SK; as death. well as being one of the first pastor/pilots operating the Faith Lutheran Fellowship ministry. HOWARD BERG, 68, husband of Pastor Arleen Berg, died 15 June 2011 in Thunder Bay ON. While his main career was with Health-Canada, he served the Church as a Lay

Section D — Page 13 Pastor at Faith Lutheran/Geraldton ON 1974-78; was was Interim Pastor at Kingman Parish AB 2006-07 and Office Manager and Dean of Boys at LCBI/Outlook SK Trinity/Grande Prairie AB 2008-09. 1980-81; led visioning, team building, and spiritual gifts Sr. FRIEDA KIEL, 95, died 2 December 2011 in Edmonton workshops in the MNO Synod 1996-2002 & 2006-09; and AB. Born in Edmonton, she studied for the Diaconate served in all of his wife’s parishes church choirs. Ministry and was consecrated in 1947. She served Pr. DEL CHRISTENSEN, 85, died 31 August 2011 in Calgary American Missions projects 1953-56; Supervisor at AB. Ordained in 1955, he served parishes at Messiah and Immanuel Deaconess Home Omaha NE 1953-56; Emmanuel/Assiniboia SK 1955-62, Augustana/Saskatoon parishes in: Chicago IL 1964-5, Spokane WA 1966-67, SK 1962-74; Supervised Pastoral Education/CPE and held Seattle WA 1967-71, Salem OR 1971-72, Eugene OR several responsibilities with the SK Synod; followed by 1972, Portland OR 1972-73; then in AB with Bethlehem numerous periods of ministry with urban and rural and Vang, Millet and Zion, and the Lutheran congregations during his time as Chaplain at Bethany Home 1973-81. Following retirement, she served the Care Centre/Calgary AB 1975-92. mentally and physically handicapped in Calahoo AB and “retired numerous times but continued to minister to Pr. JOHN ANDERSON, 74, died 18 September 2011 in others”. Camrose AB. He served parishes all having at least two worship services each Sunday, and many with second Pr. WALLACE BERGMAN, 78, died 26 December 2011 in services in German, at: St.John’s/Barrhead AB, Maple Ridge BC. Born in Arborg MB, he studied at the St.Michael’s/Mystery Lake AB, St.John’s/Meadowview AB; Lutheran Seminary in Minneapolis MN, and after Lutheran Church of Our Saviour/Calgary AB, ordination served a parish in Minnesota 1958-60, then Hosanna/Edmonton AB, and Peace/Abbotsford BC. returned to Canada and served Evangelical Following retirement he served two rural AB parishes, was Lutheran/Selkirk MB 1960-67; Our Saviour’s/Calgary AB interim University Pastor at Augustana University 1967-68; took secular employment in Victoria BC, until College/Camrose AB, and worked with several committees serving St. Paul’s/Maple Ridge BC from 1971 to retirement and boards of various synods and care agencies. in 1994. MARTIN GROOTE, 49, died 20 October 2011 in Saskatoon Pr. GORDON HANSON, 79, died 6 January 2012 in Calgary SK, after being diagnosed with non-treatable cancer three AB. Ordained in 1959, he served Redeemer/Winnipeg MB months before his death. At the time, his wife Barbara had 1959-65; was first Director of Luther Village Camp/Kenora completed seminary and had the Call as Pastor-Elect to ON 1965; Ascension/Calgary AB 1965-78; Director, Camp Ascension/Edmonton AB. With a Diploma in Banking Kuriakos, AB 1968; Lord of All/Strathmore AB 1972-78; from Germany in 1989, he worked in that field in Germany, Executive Director, Division of Social Service, Evangelical then B.C. and Saskatoon, while his faith in a gracious and Lutheran Church of Canada 1978-86; Calgary Pastoral loving God guided him in his life and in volunteering within Institute AB 1986-88; Advent/Calgary AB 1988-98. the church, most recently on Church Council and with Following retirement in 1998, he served Christ/Calgary AB commitments in an inter-denominational committee as Interim 1999-2002, and taught many workshops and focusing on homelessness concerns in Saskatoon. courses for parishes on evangelism, caring community, marriage and the family. Pr. JOE ROSTAD, 83, died 10 November 2011 in Calgary AB. Ordained in 1951, he served parishes in Scandia/ Pr. ERIC PEDERSEN, 81, died 4 February 2012 in AB 1951-56, Prince Albert/Prince Albert SK Edmonton AB. Ordained in 1956, he served as an 1956-60, Christ/Calgary AB 1960-73, and Church of the American Lutheran Church missionary overseas within the Cross/Calgary AB from 1973 until retirement in 1993. One Japan Evangelical Lutheran Church 1956-74; as American of his ministries outside the parish was through helping Lutheran Church Division for World Mission I.C. staff in those wishing meaningful travel through a company that Minneapolis MN 1974-80; World Missions Interpreter; he established. General Manager/Concord Canada 1980-82; Trinity Lutheran/Calgary AB beginning 1980; St. Peter’s/Millet AB Pr. BRIAN PATTERSON, 67, died 26 November 2011 in 1991-95. Following retirement in 1995, he continued to Edmonton AB. Ordained by the LCA in 1976, he was periodically serve at St. Peter’s/Millet. received into the ELCIC in 1988, and served as Pastoral Coordinator with the Good Samaritan Society/Edmonton Respectfully Submitted, AB 1988-89; Redeemer/Hanna AB 1989-95; Emmaus/ Gary Nickel, Pastor Edmonton AB from 1995 to retirement in 2006. He then ABT Synod Necrologist

Section D — Page 14 • Electronic records that can be altered may not be REPORT OF ARCHIVIST considered adequate for official archives or legal We are in the midst of change in the church. Change can be purposes. Using electronic data storage, do you know new and sometimes thought of as radical as when another what is considered legal documentation for your parish pastor and I took Lutheran seminary classes on Community situation, especially as you record that special Organization under Saul Alinsky and put them to immediate congregational meeting to approve a large purchase? practice with other Christians to successfully stop racist • Keeping congregational records and pastoral records “blockbusting” in our part of Chicago. Or change can be integrated together can be a problem if a pastor leaves accepted as an on-going part of our life, such as learning to a parish and wants to take the pastoral records. be a Change Agent, as appropriate, in ALL that we do. And • Files of information and resources to help committees, yes, change applies even for our archival activities. leaders, and parish contact persons are important to The recording of “what’s happening” via Minutes, photos, have and make available for use in the parish. Today, Master Records, and old documents is on-going as we do the are yours considered the pastor’s or the “Same Old” record-keeping and saving of stuff. Sometimes congregation’s? What will leave when the pastor we become a Change Agent with the new photocopiers and leaves? Have you discussed any “back-up” plan in fax/scanners replacing the previous latest equipment. Yes, case of fire or other loss? “Microfilm” once was a new standard for permanent archives, “We did things the same old way” for our records, is no whereas now we may consider “going digital”. excuse if your stuff is lost and not replaceable. The church Some parish archival concerns are the same, BUT: building can burn down and be replaced, but how about your Master Records? • You know, as Council and Pastor, of your responsibility to maintain your records, but is your parish as yet As Archivist, in the last two years, I received archival without a fireproof place for your important Master materials from several congregations including some which Records? have closed or are in the process of closing. Appropriate items then go on their way to various archival depositories. I • The constitution assigns responsibility for Master receive 3-6 inquiries or requests for information each month. Records to Pastor and Church Council. When is the I am a member of an Alberta archivists group, and we were last time you checked that everything is done right? Do able to provide an open workshop on parish archiving this you have someone other than the pastor or council who last year, the first in several years. is the responsible person for this documentation? Delegation? In Christ’s Service, • Do you periodically review the work done? I went into a Gary Nickel, Pastor parish which had only one-half of a confirmation class ABT Synod Archivist recorded by a pastor a few years before. Would your parish be able to catch that – before you have to try to explain to a member why his child’s records are missing? Some parish archival concerns are challenges involving change: • There are the newer media such as computers and tablets, discs and memory sticks to assist us in saving information. If you are using some of it, what will happen if the operator suddenly is not available to continue the work? You may have newer ways to keep and store records in electronic or digital form. You may be considering something some would consider more radical such as going with a digital “depository”. BUT are you really keeping those records in a PERMANENT form? Consider:

Section D — Page 15 feel called by God and the Church to serve as ordained or Committee for Theological diaconal ministers, are encouraged to contact the Synod Education and Leadership Office or the Conference CTEL representative for information. The Committee for Theological Education and Leadership, The CTEL has been responsible for the implementation of (CTEL) is responsible for assessing the gifts and encouraging the “It’s Your Call” program. A candidate is identified by the development of those who are interested in entering his/her congregation and interviewed by their pastor and ordained or consecrated ministry in the ELCIC. The Alberta submits the nominee’s name to the Synod office. The Synod CTEL is currently relating to a total of 17 candidates; 12 in office then forwards the nominee’s name to a CTEL member ordained and 5 in diaconal. This year there are 4 Alberta who will contact the nominee. We encourage each of you to candidates on campus at the Lutheran Theological Seminary, seek out people who you think would make good candidates (LTS), in Saskatoon, and 2 candidates are on internship. We for ministry and encourage them in that direction. “The have 6 candidate who are in the beginning stages of looking harvest is plenty and the labourers are few. Pray therefore at their call to serve in the ordained track. the Lord of the harvest to send out labourers.” CTEL meets 3 times annually. At each meeting, the The CTEL is responsible for disbursing student aid monies to candidates’ files are reviewed, their progress is assessed, ministry candidates from the “Support our Students” fund and and appropriate action is taken. A time of prayer for the the Synod student grant budget. Students who are: attending candidates is part of each meeting. The fall meeting is held in seminary, endorsed by CTEL, and full time students (taking a Saskatoon where Annual Developmental Interviews are minimum of 3 courses) are eligible to apply for financial aid, conducted for on-campus candidates, and a retreat is held for which is disbursed at the fall and winter meetings for the the Alberta candidates and their families. Each year, respective semester. (In 1998, the Alberta Synod Convention information pertinent to ministry candidates is the focus of the passed a motion identifying the goal of paying the tuition fees retreat. CTEL has identified the following topics to be used on of all endorsed ABT candidates for rostered ministry.)With a rotational basis: the help of the Support Our Students fund and the ongoing • Expectations/Ethics support from the Steve Kristenson Endowment Fund, WE • Spirituality HAVE MET THAT GOAL! We encourage all congregations to consider putting both these funds into their annual budget • How does this church work? so we can continue support our students financially. • Wellness/Self Care • The current membership of the Committee for Theological Finances Education and Leadership is as follows: A time is set aside for addressing student concerns. The Rev. Doug Heine, Chair; Hinton (At Large) retreat concludes with supper and a communion service Greg Lingelbach, Calgary (South West Conf.) shared by the CTEL and the candidates with their families. Darcy Calkins, Innisfail (West Central Conf.) Prior to making application to a school or seminary, each Marcia Vikse; Camrose (East Central) candidate must register with the CTEL and complete a Carol Jasperson, Tilly (Southern Conf.) registration packet. At the time of application to CTEL, each Rev. Susan Horton; Ft. McMurry (at large) candidate will be working with one member of our CTEL Rose-Aline Begalke, Grande Prairie (N. Conf.) committee which is a new position that we have established Diaconal Minister Lila de Waal, (Southern Conf.) to help the applicant get through the beginning part of the Bishop Ron Mayan (Synod Liaison) process. After they make it though the preliminary part of the Rev. Dr. Gordon Jensen (Seminary Faculty Liaison) application process the candidate is assigned a committee Your prayers and support are solicited for the ministry member to serve as relator. The relator provides personal candidates and for the CTELs of this church. contact on behalf of the committee, and helps interpret endorsement and committee decisions regarding the Respectfully submitted, candidate. Pastor Doug Heine, Chair, ABT CTEL The CTEL is intentional about raising awareness about the need for ministry candidates. A display has been prepared for church gatherings to provide current information about rostered ministry, and to inform congregations and individuals about ways to support ministry candidates. Individuals who

Section D — Page 16 matters. I also attended worship at Our Savior in West Report of the Deans Edmonton with Pr. Phil Penrod and Pr. David Pettersen. NORTHERN CONFERENCE An Epiphany event was held at St. Albert Lutheran on January 6th. This event was organized by retired Pastor Bill “He will not break off a bent reed nor put out a flickering Flath who had invited the North Edmonton cluster to attend. lamp. He will bring lasting justice to all. ...Distant lands We extended the invitation to everyone in the conference. eagerly wait for his teaching.” (Isaiah 42:3-4 TEV) The event combined a focus on “On Eagle’s Wings” with a Two highlights of the first few months of “deanery” have fellowship supper and worship service at which Anne been the installation services for two recent graduates of Zimmermann preached an excellent sermon. I promoted this LTS, Judy Jarvis and Barbara Groote. It was good to see event because I felt it was important to show the people of St. many clergy attend both of these events. Some came from Albert Lutheran and their pastor that we belong together as a the distant land of Saskatchewan and others as far away as church. My only wish was that more people would have Northern B.C. to take part. It speaks well for our seminary attended. that the recent graduates have formed such close bonds. I alternately join the North and South Edmonton clusters and Pr. Judy Jarvis’ installation took place at Mt. Zion Lutheran encourage all ministers to attend their respective clusters. Church, Edmonton, October 29, 2011. I met with Judy twice I’ve been trying to visit with the Yellowhead cluster, but was before the installation, both to get to know her as a colleague unable as the meeting date changed several times. and to plan the service. Pr. Judy has continued the custom of The Northern Conference Council meets three times per hosting the North Edmonton cluster meetings at her church. year, outside of the convention. It consists of the following Pr. Barbara Groote’s installation at Ascension Lutheran people: Myrtle Wegner, Daniel Bablitz, Tiina Hohn, Pastor Church, Edmonton, was Feb. 18, 2012. Pr. Barbara and I Jim Bredeson, Kate Dawson, Pastor Doug Heine, Cliff have been in contact since November 2011, mostly by phone Horton, and Marilyn Goebel. We have so far met February or email. Pr. Barbara wanted to include some meaningful 4th, 2012 at Trinity, Edmonton, with the next meeting elements from an Anglican installation service, which we did. scheduled for April 21. Prior to the February meeting I had made some inquiries regarding the topic for the next fall As dean I gave the sermon and led the installation at both convention, which I presented to the group. My own thoughts services. have been on the unique geography of our vast conference. Another installation for Pr. Debbie Moroz at Trinity, We cover everything from Edmonton to the North Pole. Whitehorse, was conducted by Dr. Larry Kochendorfer. Though much of that area is sparsely populated, it is home to many small (but often growing) native communities who We had several funerals for ministers from Edmonton. Pr. struggle with great challenges. It is also home to the Brian Patterson passed away Nov. 26, 2011, his funeral took oil/tar-sands and other resource extracting industries. place at his long time congregation, Emmaus Lutheran. Like Communities such as Fort McMurray and Cold Lake have many colleagues, I had visited Brian at the hospital prior to their own unique challenges. It is also a land whose his passing and took part in the service. The service was environment is rapidly changing as sea-ice and permafrost conducted by former dean Pr. Laird Borst. are melting, and roads and homes, wild life and people’s way Sister Frieda Kiel died December 2, 2011. I read a message of life are increasingly under threat. In these times of change, from Bishop Ron at her funeral. The service was conducted how do we proclaim the good news of God’s unchanging love by Frieda’s pastor, Matt Lyseng. in such a way that even the “distand lands” hear it? We agreed on inviting both Dr. Dittmar Mundel and Anne Presently I am in touch with two pastors and congregations Zimmermann as speakers at the convention. The topic we who are in the call process or have accepted another call. tentatively decided on was “Stewards of the North”, During the bishop’s sabbatical deans have been asked to combining reflections on stewardship of creation with our first conduct exit interviews and I look forward to this new hand involvement with northern (first nations) people through challenge. A request was also received from one “On Eagle’s Wings”. The council is checking with St. congregation for help in responding to the National Matthew’s in Spruce Grove to see whether they will host the Convention decisions, which I am attending to. convention. It is scheduled for the last week-end of I had intentional conversations (and in some cases lunch) September. Information will be out by the end of April. with eight clergy over the past few months. Some of them Respectfully submitted, in Christ’s service, involved personal concerns, others congregational and health Pastor Markus Wilhelm

Section D — Page 17 EAST CENTRAL CONFERENCE challenges with finances and declining membership our congregations continue to serve with a heartfelt love for God, Grace to you and peace from God, our Creator, Redeemer, their communities, and their fellow members. and Sanctifier. Conference pastors continue to participate in the Synod’s The East Central Conference is pleased to welcome the Evangelizing Church Project. Ongoing discussions seek to Synod of Alberta and the Territories to Camrose and to our find ways of revitalizing congregations and ministry conference for the 2012 Synod Convention. throughout our conference. The Conference Council has The congregations within the East Central Conference have used this as the focus for the Conference Conventions. The struggled with the decisions made at the National Church theme for the 2010 Conference Convention was “Sharing the Convention in 2011. This was evident at the 2011 Good News.” The 2011 Conference Convention theme was Conference Convention in the discussions during the “Worship As Evangelism?”. Bishop’s time. Many of our congregations have felt that they Serving on the East Central Conference Council are: Rev. could not in good conscience continue to remain a part of the Eleanor Ness (Dean), Mr. Horst Schreiber (Chairperson), ELCIC. Others are working out what their relationship will be Rev. Jim Appleby (Secretary), Ms. Kathy Nelson (Treasurer), with the wider church as they choose to remain within the Rev. Karl Faltin, Mrs. Barbara Lentz, and Mrs. Eleanor ELCIC. There was a poignancy to this convention because Paulgaard. Rev. David Eriksson, the Dean from 2006 to those present knew that at the next Conference Convention 2011, Mrs. Colleen Wack, and Mrs. Grethe Voight have many friends and colleagues would not be present. A special completed their terms on the Conference Council. Thank you moment during the convention was the prayer for Bishop Ron to all those who have served as members of the Conference at the end the Bishop’s time. The people of our conference Council during the last two years. Your dedication, have appreciated Bishop Ron’s leadership during a difficult willingness to serve, and wisdom in guiding the conference time in our church and continue to pray for God’s presence to are appreciated. We are blessed as a conference to have be with Bishop Ron and his wife Dianne in the coming such faithful people serving on our behalf. months. God bless you all as you carry on the various ministries God Changes in the parish in the last two years are: has called you into. a. The formation of the Faith Country Lutheran Parish by Rev. Eleanor Ness Hope Lutheran, Forestburg; Bethania, Sedgewick; and Dean Trinity, Lougheed. The parish is served by Rev. Rick Laurendeau. St. John’s, Castor was not able to be a full partner in the parish. It is being served as a preaching SOUTHERN CONFERENCE point by Pastor Rick. Pastor Rick is providing Sunday worship services at Bethany Lutheran, Donalda until it I want to begin by thanking the members of our Conference closes in May 2012. Council for their dedication, hard work and support. We are blessed to have such a group of individuals will to give of b. Zion Lutheran, Bashaw is purchasing services from the their time, talents and energy, which makes my job easier Edberg/ Parish two Sundays a month. Rev. and the business of the Conference run smoothly. Thanks to Jeff Decelle leads worship two Sundays a month. Mr. Wendy Kalkan for her two terms as Secretary and to Elaine Colin Millang is leading worship on the other Sundays. Gerow for taking on the office. We also appreciate the work Rev. Larry Soveran and Mr. Allan Grahn each serve one of Mavis Steegen our Treasurer, Mac de Waal who serves as Sunday a month at the Edberg/New Norway parish. pastor-at-large, and our Chair Ryan Scott. c. Rev. Bill Harder was installed as the pastor of the Bawlf Our Council Chair, Ryan Scott resigned from his position in Parish. March of this year shortly after his congregation of Peace d. The congregations at Wilhemina, ; Salem, Lutheran in Claresholm passed its second vote to sever ties Kingman; Trondhjem, Round Hill; Golden Valley, Viking; with the ELCIC. As of the time of writing this: Granum Bardo, Tofield; Sharon, Irma; Peace, Wainwright; and Lutheran passed its second vote to sever with the ELCIC; Sharon, Donalda have severed their relationship with the while Trinity Brooks, and Zion Bow Island have both passed ELCIC. first votes to sever; Unity Lutheran in has a first vote to sever scheduled. The members and congregations in our conference continue to struggle through the changes and difficulties that go along The 2011 ELCIC National Convention added an additional with being a rural agricultural/oil and gas area. In spite of level of work to the Dean’s office. The week following the

Section D — Page 18 Convention I called all the active pastors to touch base with effective as we gather in our geographical centre where each them and the next week called the pastors who are retired or conference will take its turn to serve as convention host. not in a call at this time. I met with the councils of Granum, Abundant Life Lutheran Church, NW Calgary was officially Peace Claresholm, Unity Medicine Hat, St. Peter Medicine organized and welcomed with an evening service and Hat and Redeemer in Hanna at their request and Bp. Ron’s sumptuous Chinese dinner at Advent Lutheran September direction. My wife Manny and I also presided at a Healing 25, 2011. Pastor Bart Eriksson and a team of other pastors Service at Trinity Brooks in January. The calamity foisted oversee dynamic monthly Lutheran Youth events across upon our congregations by the Social Statement on Sexuality Calgary and environs. Our rostered and other professional and the three attending motions are straining and breaking workers continue to gather each month for breakfast, congregations and pastors who are trying offer appropriate worship, study and the “mutual conversation and consolation care and leadership for those in their charge. Please keep of the brethren”. our conference’s pastors, councils and congregations in your prayers. And of course keep our Bishop in your prayers (if There have been a significant number of transitions since last you don’t already). report as a number of our colleagues have gone home to their eternal rest: Rev. Art Dahlen, Rev. Mark Innes, Rev. Conference cluster meetings with Pastors Don Hall, Brenda Carstens (conference treasurer), Rev. Del Our cluster meetings were infrequent in 2010 but following Christensen, Rev. Joseph Rostad and Rev. Gordon Hanson. the 2011 National Convention, our conference’s pastors have Florence Eirene Wind retired from diaconal ministry found our gatherings for worship, Holy Communion and completing interim service at Good Shepherd, High River and mutual consolation to be a blessing. Pastor Rod McLeish retired from Holy Cross, Okotoks. Pastor Stewart Miller completed his ministry at Hope, Calgary Installations with the acceptance of a call to Estevan, SK. Pastor Bart • Pr. Jane Mitchell, Granum Lutheran, Eriksson was installed at All Saints’, Calgary and Pastor October 24/10 Aaron Schell was ordained at Highwood Lutheran, Calgary • Pr. Jane Mitchell, Peace Lutheran, Claresholm, and subsequently installed as pastor at First, Calgary August 7/11 beginning team ministry with Pastor Julianne Barlow. It has been a delight to serve with the members of conference Exit Interview council: Terrie Coombs (chair), Laura Holukoff (secretary), Pr. Horst Aechtner, Peace Claresholm, April 20/11 Donna Christensen, Diane Kilbourn and Rick Quast. And our last conference convention welcomed new councilors Pr. Brad Everett Dorothy Schumaker, Kristen Jakobson and Joanne Dean Southern Conference Davenport (treasurer). These are difficult and challenging days for our church. As SOUTH WEST CONFERENCE our congregations discern God’s will for their future either within or apart from our ELCIC, the consequence of decisions It is an honour to serve as conference dean. Although this made at National Convention last July in Saskatoon, we position consumes a considerable amount of time, it continue in prayer that we might prove wise and faithful continues to be a thoroughly rewarding and enjoyable disciples: on essentials committed to unity, on non-essentials experience. Our conference conventions over this past liberty and in all things charity. Thank you for your support biennium were excellent and highly engaging. On November and partnership as we commit ourselves to live and proclaim 27, 2010 we gathered at All Saints’, Calgary under the theme the good news of God’s love for all people in Jesus Christ. of World Missions with presentations from Rick Quast To God alone be glory. (Colombia) and Jonathan Aicken (Mongolia). On November 26, 2011 our convention was hosted at Prince of Faith, Respectfully submitted, Calgary with Dr. James Pope from Grande Prairie presenting Pastor Dennis Aicken on “Spiritual Care from a Physician’s Point of View”. Our Dean, South West Conference Synod Convention at Augustana Campus in Camrose May 24-27th celebrates “Stories of the Great [Co] Mission” and is precedent setting as the first to be planned and hosted by one conference on the territory of another conference! This peculiar experiment makes our Synod conventions more cost

Section D — Page 19 WEST CENTRAL CONFERENCE October 2011. It was an open and honest sharing as well as question and answer time. First of all, I would like to thank the WCC Council members • for all their hard work and diligence in the work of the Our two Lutheran-Anglican parishes of Rocky Mountain conference. It is very much appreciated. To those who have House and Bentley continue to do good work together put in their work and time in the past, thank-you and God and show a wonderful fellowship of our two churches. bless you. To those new to the council, thank-you for offering • We continue to provide funds to youth of our your time and talents to the conference and to the Synod! conference for mission and youth excursion events Also, to those from our conference who have given of their through our Youth Mission Fund. time and talents for work on Synod and National committees • Good Shepherd, Red Deer remains a centre, not just and councils, many thanks to you as well for all your efforts in for Conference events, but also for Synod workshops, the work of the church beyond our boundaries to which we such as the Church Council Workshops held there in belong. March. (*Note: the whole synod is encouraged to take Our current Council consists of Rev. Christine Nojonen part in these very excellent workshops that are provided (Chair), Chloe Ree, Rose Good, Rev. David Melax, Lois for the benefit of congregations and the Synod! Take Roper, Rev. Mike Wellman, and Ed Hein. Sadly, we the time!) accepted the resignation of Debbie Allen at our November • We have two wonderful Camps in our conference, meeting. Mulhurst and Kuriakos…wonderful facilities run by very talented and committed people, and both places Some changes in our Conference over the past year, deserve our attention and presence!! • The departure from the ELCIC (and our Synod) of • The faith, the quality, the talent of the people of this Bethany, Dickson, as well as Trinity, Ponoka. We are conference that I have met and seen in my short time sad to see them go. as this conference’s Dean, is utterly astounding. There • The resignation from the Clergy Roster of a number of is so much available to work with, and the willing hearts pastors, Rev. Randy Fiege, Rev. Dave Schumacher that are connected to these gifts need only to be • The retirement of long time Camp Kuriakos Director, encouraged. May God help and guide us to do so! Rev. Dave Larsen Respectfully, • Seminarian Marc Jerry has accepted a call to Lutheran Rev. John Lentz Church of the Good Shepherd in Red Deer; ordination and installation to take place at Good Shepherd on April 14, 2012. • Installation of Sr. Virginia Burke to Saron, Clive • Dyanna Noble, seminarian, licensed and serving in a pastoral capacity at Trinity, Warburg A number of congregations have gone through the painful process of considering and then voting to leave the ELCIC, and remain because of that vote. The sad truth of these kinds of votes is that whether the vote is to stay or go, division is caused, people leave and the congregation looses either way, and pastors hurt either way. Our prayer is for God now to heal, to guide into the future, and to provide the light and love with which to do so. Our prayers do continue for those congregations and pastors in our midst who still remain in deliberations over whether they wish to remain in the ELCIC or not. May the Holy Spirit guide you. There are some hilites in the conference: • Our National Bishop Susan Johnson joined us and Bishop Ron for our annual WCC Convention in Leduc,

Section D — Page 20 Roster of Synod Council Synod of Alberta and the Territories of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in Canada

Bishop 2014 Rev. Ronald B. Mayan

Chairperson 2012 Rev. Tim Posyluzny

Treasurer 2014 Stephen Wildfang

Secretary 2012 Brenda Visser

Southwestern 2012 Jennifer Laurendeau lay

Southwestern 2014 Rev. Julianne Barlow rostered

East Central 2014 Marilyn Murray lay

East Central 2012 Rev. Paul McCormick rostered

West Central 2012 Gail Berg lay

West Central 2014 Gary Aicken rostered

Northern 2012 Norman Olson lay

Northern 2014 Rev. Markus Wilhelm rostered

Southern 2012 Wayne Street lay

Southern 2014 Rev. Julianna Wehrfritz-Hanson rostered

Full Communion 2014 Rev. David Holmes (Anglican

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