2021 Synod Assembly Resource Packet TABLE OF CONTENTS

Welcome and Introduction ...... 3 – 4

Zoom & Streaming Tips ...... 5

Voting Member Instructions ...... 6

Agenda ...... 7

Guest Speakers ...... 8 – 9

Synod Council ...... 10

Synod Staff ...... 11

Resolutions and Memorials ...... 12 – 25

RC2021-01 ...... 12

RC2021-02 ...... 13 – 14

RC2021-03 ...... 15

RC2021-04 ...... 16 – 17

RC2021-05 ...... 18 – 19

RC2021-06 ...... 20 – 21

RC2021-07 ...... 22 – 23

RC2021-08-09 ...... 24 – 25

Nominees ...... 26 – 41

Annual Reports ...... 42 – 45

ELCA Churchwide ...... 42

Augsburg ...... 43

Portico ...... 44

MN Council of Churches ...... 45

2 WELCOME & INTRODUCTION

Dear Friends in Christ,

Welcome to our first synod assembly in two years. Certainly, 2020 unfolded in a way no one could have anticipated:

• The COVID-19 pandemic challenged us to reconsider our relationship to God’s creation.

• The murder of George Floyd and the global cries for justice challenged us to reconsider our relationships with each other.

• The recession and the disparities in healthcare caused us to reconsider our relationship in the global economy.

The Biblical Year of Jubilee unfolded in ways the Israelites would not have imagined.

• The Israelites were called to observe Jubilee every 50 years – a time of dramatic change reminding the faithful that God is the giver of the land and that God’s community is responsible for the well-being of all its members.

• Every seven years the land was left fallow and debts were forgiven. After seven sevens, or the 50th/Jubilee Year, a radical homecoming was called for, whereby land lost to indebtedness would be returned.

• At the core, Jubilee reminds us that God’s community is to be guided by God’s ways – rooted in creation and in exodus. Social power and social wealth are gifts for the sake of community. And, community cannot be sustained when high levels of inequity exist.

Given all that’s unimaginable in our lives, while also catching glimmers of how life may be rising anew, we have chosen the theme “Jubilee Reclaimed: Opening the Way.”

The Easter Season is really a jubilee season. Through the cross and resurrections, God ushers in a renewed Jubilee that extends to all – as far as the ends of the earth. It is the Jubilee of new life and forgiveness – justification and liberation because of faith in Jesus Christ.

Oh, that doesn’t mean the jubilee in Isaiah is replaced by the jubilee of justification. On the contrary! You and I are partners with the God of Jubilee. We’ve been justified by grace. Secure in that identity, we live and proclaim Jubilee to the ends of the earth – forgiveness of sin, good news to the poor, release to the captives, and liberty for the oppressed.

Over the next 12 hours we will be testimony to the Jubilee opportunities in our lives from profound speakers: • ELCA Vice President Bill Horne will share the hopes of ELCA Churchwide. • Theologian Drew Hart will draw us into a conversation about who we are and whose we are. • Pastors Marlene Helgemo and Kate Reuer Welton will share Biblical insights that will challenge and inspire. • Epidemiologist Michael Osterholm will offer current information about the virus that 3 dominates life in the church these days. • Youth Gathering Director Molly Beck Dean will share her excitement over hosting the 2022 event.

As we lean into the fear and hope ascribed to our theme, let’s remember that God’s abundance offers us strength to think outside of boxes, outside of narthexes, outside of ourselves that we might be agents of welcome and healing in our world -- that we might know Jubilee for ourselves and our neighbors.

In Christ, Bishop Ann Svennungsen

4 ZOOM & STREAMING TIPS Voting Members Using Zoom

Mute Participants Reactions/Raise Hand When this icon has Click this icon and a Click this icon and a bubble will appear, a red line through list of participants on allowing you to react or raise your hand. it, you are muted. the call will open in During Synod Assembly, Please remain muted a separate window, if you wish to speak to a during the Synod usually along the resolution, you must raise Assembly unless you right side of your your hand. We will ask you are asked to unmute. Zoom screen. to unmute and speak when it is your turn.

Stop Video Chat End When this icon has Click this icon and a chat box Click this button to a red line through it, will open in a separate window, leave the Zoom call. your video is off. usually along the right side of your Zoom screen. During Synod Assembly, you will only be able to chat with call administrators. Multiple Windows You may need more than one window open at a time in order to vote and participate on Zoom. At the top of your Zoom window, minimize/resize the screen. Then, open your interenet browser and pull up the portal. If you run your cursor along the sides of each window, an arrow will appear. Click and drag the window sides until each window is the best size for viewing both at once. You may also choose to use multiple devices; accessing the Portal and voting can easily be done on a smartphone or tablet while you are using Zoom on a different device.

If you need more Zoom help, we put together a short video on the basics we think you’ll need to know for Synod Assembly 2021. Click here to view! Guest Viewers Streaming Links YouTube Live: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCaP79I0xFiBUTiTHdOmuq6w Facebook Live: https://www.facebook.com/mplssynod

Commenting Social Media We will have staff monitoring the chats on Remember to post about Synod Facebook and YouTube, so please let us know Assembly on social media! Tag what you think of our first ever virtual Synod us and/or use our hashtag: Assembly! #masassembly 5 VOTING MEMBERS INSTRUCTIONS Voting Member Orientation • Friday at 4 p.m. • If at any time you need to refresh your • First-time Asembly voters should attend memory on the Rules of Procedure, Click • The budget hearing at 5 p.m. is optional here! Voting Member Portal The Voting Member Portal will contain all resources and links you will need during the Assembly. The Portal is password protected. If you are a Voting Member, you received the password in email communications leading up to Synod Assembly. If you are not a Voting Member, you may not access the portal or vote. You may invite visitors to watch the Synod Assembly on Facebook live or YouTube live (links on page 5).

Important links for participating in Syond Assembly will be located here on the Portal! Credentialing Please sign on to Zoom 30 minutes before Assembly begins to ensure time for the credentialing process. When you sign on to Zoom, you will be asked to fill out the credentials form (the link to which will be on the Voting Member Portal). Please fill this form out before the first plenary begins so all voting members are counted.

Other helpful links and resources can be found in this section of the Portal. Need Help? A virtual Assembly is new for all of us; and some of us are more familiar with the technology than others. Please be patient and charitable in your interactions. If you have technology questions on Friday or Saturday, please call Madeline Troyer, 330-600-0664. 6 AGENDA Friday, April 23rd 4:00 p.m. Voter Orientation Synod Vice President, Felecia Boone and Parlimentarian, The Honorable Judge David Lillehaug 5:00 p.m. Budget Hearing, Synod Treasurer, Ty Inglis 5:45 p.m. Assembly Registration Check-In For credentialing purposes, assembly registrants will need to “check-in” each day. Please join Zoom 30-minutes prior to the assembly Call to Order. 6:00 p.m. Gathering and Music 6:15 p.m. Plenary 1: Welcome and Opening Liturgy Dwelling in the Word, Rev. Kate Reuer Welton, Lutheran Campus Ministry, University of , Minneapolis Adoption of Rules, Order of Business, Credentials Report Report of the Reference and Counsel Committee Report of the Bishop Consent Agenda 7:20 p.m. Break 7:30 p.m. Keynote Address, Dr. Drew Hart, professor in theology at Messiah University, author of Trouble I’ve Seen: Changing the Way the Church Views Racism Report of the Synod Treasurer, Ty Inglis Budget Resolutions Announcements 9:00 p.m. Adjourn Saturday, April 24th 8:00 a.m. Deadline for Submitting Nominations and Resolutions 8:30 a.m. Assembly Registration Check-In For credentialing purposes, assembly registrants will need to “check-in” each day. Please join Zoom 30-minutes prior to the assembly call to order. 9:00 a.m. Plenary 2: Welcome and Call to Order Dwelling in the Word, Rev. Marlene Helgemo, All Nations Indian Church, Minneapolis Credentials Report Report of the ELCA Vice President, Bill Horne ELCA video Nominating Committee Report Elections 9:50 a.m. Break 10:00 a.m. Plenary 3: State of the Pandemic, Dr. Michael Osterholm, director of the Center for Infectious Disease Research and Policy at the University of Minnesota Resolution and Memorial 11:30 a.m. Break 11:40 a.m. Plenary 4: Report of the Synod Vice President, Felecia Boone Resolution Report of the ELCA Youth Gathering, Molly Beck Dean, Gathering Director 12:30 p.m. Plenary 5: Remaining Resolutions Unfinished Business Closing of the Synod Assembly 7 GUEST SPEAKERS

Rev. Kate Reuer Welton Bible Study Leader The Rev. Kate Reuer Welton (she/her) serves as the Lutheran Campus Pastor at the University of Minnesota-Twin Cities. She is married to Jim, mother to Benjamin and Eleanor, and is grateful that they’re finally old enough to enjoy watching the Great British Bake Off and go for bike rides together! Kate graduated from HarvardDivinity School (MDiv) in 2006 and (MTh) in 2010, after which she was called to the U of M. Her approach to the Christian life? “Awe, humility, and curiosity.”

Dr. Drew Hart Keynote Speaker Drew G. I. Hart is a public theologian and professor of theology at Messiah University in Pennsylvania. He has 10 years of pastoral ministry experience and has worked for an afterschool program in the city for middle school boys. In addition to teaching, he provides anti-racism and faith-based justice talks and workshops across the country and collaborates with local faith-rooted organizers, activists, and leaders in Harrisburg. His book, Trouble I’ve Seen: Changing the Way the Church Views Racism, utilizes everyday stories, Jesus-shaped lessons, and anti- racism frameworks to transform the church’s understanding and social witness. His newest book, Who Will Be a Witness?: Igniting Activism for God’s Justice, Love, and Deliverance calls the church to action, offering a way forward that is deeply rooted in the nonviolent liberation of Jesus Christ. This discipleship resource unveils the church’s past failures and offers an ecclesial path toward meaningful grassroots social change. His writing can be found in Sojourners, The Christian Century, Red Letter Christians, and The Mennonite, among other places, and Dr. Hart speaks regularly at colleges, conferences, and churches throughout North America. Drew also serves as a co-host for the Inverse Podcast, along with Australian peace activist Jarrod Mckenna. Together they interview interesting guests from around the world and explore how liberative readings of scripture can subvert the status quo and invite us to turn our world upside-down. Dr. Drew Hart was the recipient of bcmPEACE’s 2017 Peacemaker Award and was honored locally with the 2019 W.E.B. Du Bois Award. He was also chosen as Elizabethtown College’s 2019 Peace Fellow. Drew and his family live in Harrisburg, PA.

Rev. Marlene Helgemo Bible Study Leader The Rev. Marlene Whiterabbit Helgemo, a member of the Ho-Chunk Tribe in Wisconsin, was the first Native American woman to be a pastor in the ELCA. She currently serves All Nations Indian Church of the United Church of Christ here in Minneapolis. She also serves as the Executive Director of the Council for American Indian Ministry (CAIM) of the UCC. If that didn’t keep her busy enough she also serves as Board Member of the American Indian Business Development Corporation, and Vice President of the Native American Community Development Institute. She is the past President of the Minneapolis Council of Churches and served two terms on the Minnesota Council of Churches. 8 GUEST SPEAKERS (cont.)

Mr. Bill Horne ELCA Churchwide Representative Mr. William “Bill” Horne II was elected to serve a six-year term as ELCA Vice President at the 2016 ELCA Churchwide Assembly in New Orleans. Bill Horne grew up as a member of the National Baptist religious tradition and became a Lutheran while serving in the United States Air Force in 1982. Bill has served as congregational president in two ELCA congregations in Florida and is currently a member of St. Paul’s Lutheran Church in Clearwater, Florida. He served as a member of the Florida-Bahamas Synod Council and later as Synod Vice President. Bill served on the ELCA Church Council, 2009-2015 and a member of the ELCA Theological Education Advisory Council, 2013-2015. He is currently serving as a member of the ELCA Inter-Religious Task Force and of the Lutheran Services Florida Board of Directors. His post military retirement career has been in public management. He was appointed by the Clearwater City Council to serve as the Chief Administrative Officer (City Manager) of the city with responsibility for all departments except the City Attorney’s Office. He is directly responsible for 1,746 employees and accountable for the annual operating and capital budget of $441 million dollars. Bill was selected as Interim City Manager in 2000 and later appointed to the position of City Manager in 2001. Bill served as a Colonel in the United States Air Force. He earned his Bachelor of Science Degree in Chemistry from the University of Tulsa, a Masters in Human Resource Management from Pepperdine University, and a Masters in Political Science from Auburn University in Montgomery.

Dr. Michael Osterholm Keynote Speaker Dr. Osterholm is Regents Professor, McKnight Presidential Endowed Chair in Public Health, the director of the Center for Infectious Disease Research and Policy (CIDRAP), Distinguished Teaching Professor in the Division of Environmental Health Sciences, School of Public Health, a professor in the Technological Leadership Institute, College of Science and Engineering, and an adjunct professor in the Medical School, all at the University of Minnesota. In November 2020, Dr. Osterholm was appointed to President Joe Biden’s 13-member Transition COVID-19 Advisory Board. From June 2018 through May 2019, he served as a Science Envoy for Health Security on behalf of the US Department of State. He is also on the Board of Regents at Luther College in Decorah, Iowa. He is the author of the New York Times best-selling 2017 book, Deadliest Enemy: Our War Against Killer Germs, in which he not only details the most pressing infectious disease threats of our day but lays out a nine-point strategy on how to address them, with preventing a global flu pandemic at the top of the list.

Ms. Molly Beck Dean ELCA Youth Gathering Director Molly Beck Dean serves as the Director of the ELCA Youth Gathering, a triennial faith formation event for 30,000 high school youth and their adult leaders. Prior to this call, she was a part of synodical, congregational, outdoor ministry and parachurch staffs focusing on ministry with young people. Molly lives outside of Chicago with her two children and loves ice cream, dogs, and time outside in the 9 sunshine. SYNOD COUNCIL Executive Committee

Bishop Ann Ms. Felecia Mr. Ty Inglis Mr. Ross Svennungsen Boone Treasurer Eichelberger Bishop Vice President Secretary

Ms. Ronda Rev. Bruce Ms. Emma Fenlon Kuenzel Kasiga

Members At Large

• Boone, Ms. Felecia • Kasiga, Ms. Emma • Carter, Ms. Sierra • Kuenzel, Rev. Bruce • Eichelberger, Mr. Ross • Lane, Mr. Barret • Fenlon, Ms. Ronda • Legesse, Rev. Wondimu • Froisland, Rev. Brenda • Rosenow, Ms. Laila • Greve, Rev. Deaconess Diane • Rundman, Mr. Paavo • Hoffer, Rev. Eric • Svennungsen, Bishop Ann • Inglis, Mr. Ty • Thone, Rev. Jacqueline

Advancing Generosity - Annual Stewardship; Feasibility Studies; Capital, Mission, and Debt Reduction Campaigns; Visioning; Planned Giving; Endowments 10 SYNOD STAFF

Bishop Ann Svennungsen Bob Hulteen Bishop Director of Communications and Public Voice

Kris Bjorke Peg Ihinger Assistant to First-Third Assistant to Candidacy and Ministry Peer Groups

Brenda Blackhawk Rev. Norma Malfatti Congregational Organizer for Director of Evangelical Racial Justice Mission

Emilie Bouvier Lynda Nordholm Director of Organizing Assistant to Mission

Candy Carlson Karen Ohm Accountant Director of Roster and Call Process

Rev. Kelly Chatman Meghan Olsen Advisor to the Bishop in the Biebighauser Minneapolis Area Synod Congregational Organizer of Economic Justice

Eric Howard Rev. Craig Pederson Executive Assistant to the Assistant to the Bishop Bishop

Jeni Huff Nicholas Tangen Events and Website Director of Faith Practices Coordinator and Neighboring Practices

Rev. John Hulden Madeline Troyer Assistant to the Bishop Associate Organizer for Environmental Justice

11 RC2021-01 Resolution Concerning Ethiopia

12 RC2021-02 Memorial Concerning Mekane Yesus Church

13 14 RC2021-03 Resolution Concerning Line 3 Construction

15 RC2021-04 Resolution Concerning Banning Nuclear Weapons

16 17 RC2021-05 Memorial Concerning Banning Nuclear Weapons

18 19 RC2021-06 Resolution Concerning “Conflict-Free Initiative”

20 21 RC2021-07 Memorial Concerning “Conflict-Free Initiative”

22 23 RC2021-08 – 09 Budget Resolution

24 25 NOMINEES

Ms. Karina Vincent (1st term) Synod Council Demographics: Mr. Paavo Rundman (2nd term) Lay leader; Female; Youth; African- American Demographics: Congregation: Lay leader; Male; Youth; White First Lutheran Church of Crystal; Congregation/Conference: Northwest Henepin Conference Edina Community Lutheran Church; Vocation/Employment: Crosstown Conference Student Vocation/Employment: Church Leadership: Student Vacation Bible School Other: “Along with serving on the Synod Council, I play in my school’s orchestras and run tech in our theater program, as well as personally Consultation Committee playing a variety of instruments and working Rev. Rhonda Hlavinka as a freelance animator. I’ve served one Demographics: term on the Synod Council, regularly seek Minister of Word and Sacrament; Female; opportunities to act as leader and participant White in various faith-focused activities and look Congregation: forward to further service in the church.” Salem English Lutheran Church; Central Conference Ms. Ronda Fenlen (2nd term) Vocation/Employment: Demographics: Pastor at Salem English Lay leader; female; Church Leadership: Congregation: Pastor Long Lake Lutheran Church in Isanti; Community Leadership: Northern Conference “As a parent of two teenage boys, my Vocation/Employment: volunteering and leadership outside the Client Solutions Manager for Data Axle church primarily revolves around youth Church Leadership: sports (basketball and baseball) and VP Church Council/Executive Team; Worship school, where I have served on several Leader; Missions; Adult Forum; Synod governing boards and teams.“ Council/Executive Team Other: Community Leadership: “As a lifelong member of the Minneapolis Central Minnesota Emergency Response Synod and pastor having served in the Volunteer; 4H Volunteer synod for a majority of my 20 years in Other: ordained ministry, I am eager to serve in “I’m a cradle Lutheran raised in the Lutheran new and various ways. The consultation Church; blessed to raise my daughters committee would be a wonderful and now watch my grand children attend opportunity for me to serve our synod.” Long Lake Lutheran (member since 1987). I have enjoyed the last 3 years on the Synod Ms. Dee Ann Cameron Council; just as sitting on your Church Demographics: Council is a valuable educational experience Lay Leader I have found the same to be true while on Congregation/Conference: the Synod Council and would welcome the Zion Lutheran Church, Anoka; Rum River opportunity to participate for an additional 3 Conference years. Thank you.” Vocation/Employment: Retired 26 NOMINEES (cont.)

Other: Rev. Babette Chatman “Recently retired from Zion Lutheran Church, Demographics: where I was the Church Administrator for 17 Minister of Word and Sacrament; Female; years.” Black Rev. Angela Khabeb Congregation/Conference: Redeemer Lutheran Church; North Demographics: Minneapolis Conference Minister of Word and Sacrament; Woman; Vocation/Employment: Black Campus Pastor Congregation: Church Leadership: Holy Trinity Lutheran Church; South RLC Council co-chair Outreach and Minneapolis Conference Evangelism; Women’s ministry; MAS Vocation/Employment: Equity Lens comm; MAS Mission Table; Associate Pastor at Holy Trinity RLC Congregation Partner collaborator; Church Leadership: Northside Parish Pastor; Columnist for Living Lutheran Community Leadership: magazine Harrison Neighborhood Association; Mpls Other: “Heal Our City” virtual prayer group, CLNE The Rev. Angela T. Khabeb joined the Holy vol. Trinity ministry staff in August 2018. Pastor Other: Angela, a Bridges Scholar, completed “I was humbled at the nomination to seminary at the Lutheran School of Theology consider offering leadership on the Synod’s at Chicago where she won the James discipline committee. I would not commit Kenneth Echols Prize for Excellence in to this opportunity to serve if not for my Preaching. From 2000-2002, Angela was an complete confidence and trust in the Spirit ELCA missionary in Namibia, Africa where work within and through me. I am an eight she met and married her husband, Benhi. (8) on the Enneagram Personality Test.” Benhi and Angela have been married since 2001 and they have three wonderful children. Mr. Marc Jacobson In their spare time, this vibrant family enjoys Demographics: world music, creative writing, leisurely walks, Lay Leader and bike riding. Congregation/Conference: Trinity Lutheran Church, Monticello; Discipline Committee Western Waters Conference Mr. Justin Zoss Demographics: Lay leader Augsburg Corporation Congregation/Conference: First Lutheran Church of Crystal; Northwest Governing Board Hennepin Conference Vocation/Employment: Ms. Sally Daniels Herron (1st term) Transportation Security Inspector Demographics: Church Leadership: Lay Leader; Female; Caucasian Council Member Congregation/Conference: Other: Valley of Peace Lutheran Church, Golden “I am a member of First Lutheran Church of Valley; Northwest Hennepin Conference Crustal and have been on the council for the Vocation/Employment: past 6 years. I will serve the synod to the best Parish and Communications Administrator, 27 of my ability.” Valley of Peace Lutheran Church NOMINEES (cont.)

Church Leadership: Vocation/Employment: “I have served on our church council in a Senior Engineering Manageer at Target variety of roles, twice as Congregational Technology President. I taught children’s Faith Formation Church Leadership: for many years. I have been the wedding Leader of Sr. youth Group coordinator at Valley of Peace for 10+ years. Community Leadership: I have now worked in the office at Valley of No current engagements; formerly Peace for almost four years as our Parish and VP of the Neighborhood Hub in North Communications Administrator.” Minneapolis; President of the NW Thrivent Community Leadership: Board. “My community activities have primarily Other: been at church; prior to being at Valley of “I’m an Alum of Augsburg and I am thrilled Peace, I was an active member of Central in the direction the President Pribbenow Lutheran in downtown Minneapolis.” has been taking Augsburg.” Other: “Prior to working at Valley of Peace, I worked Rev. John Strommen (2nd term) at Augsburg University for 38 years in a Demographics: variety of roles and was a student for four Minister of Word and Sacrament; Male; years before that! I would be honored to Caucasian serve on the Augsburg Governing Board.” Congregation/Conference: Trinity Lutheran Church, Long Lake; 394 Ms. Kirsten Kelly (2nd term) Corridor North Conference Demographics: Vocation/Employment: Lay leader; Female; Caucasian Interim Senior Pastor of Trinity (Scandinavian) Church Leadership: Congregation/Conference: “Facilitating an interim process that Light of Christ Lutheran Church, Delano; 394 clarifies congregational and staff identity, Corridor North Conference and helps the discern where God is Vocation/Employment: leading.” Director of Children, Youth & Family Community Leadership: Ministries, Light of Christ Lutheran Board Member of Church Innovations Church Leadership: Institute Staff Other: Community Leadership: “I am currently a Masters of Theology School Volunteer student at Luther Seminary, studying Other: Lutheran theology and missional church “My husband and I are both Augsburg grads leadership. I am also an avid photographer, (Class of 2000). We have 3 boys ages 14, 11 movie buff, cyclist, weightlifter, and traveler and 3. I’ve worked in ELCA congregations for with my wife, Heidi.” over 20 years doing children, youth & family ministry and continue to have a passion for Rev. Ashley Osborn (1st term) youth, families and their faith foundation.” Demographics: Minister of Word and Sacrament; Female; Mr. Larye Pohlman (2nd term) White Demographics: Congregation/Conference: Lay leader; Male; White/Anglo Valley of Peace Lutheran Church, Golden Congregation/Conference: Valley; Northwest Hennepin Conference Central Lutheran Church, Minneapolis; Vocation/Employment: 28 Central Conference Pastor at Valley of Peace NOMINEES (cont.)

Church Leadership: currently for the Minneapolis Area Synod, “I am active in conference gatherings, peer as well serving on various synod task groups, and clergy support networks. I forces and committees over the years. I’m have served as a facilitator for The Christian in my third parish, and my thirtieth year of Public Leader in Context course at Luther ordained Word and Sacrament ministry.” Seminary. I have also served in several areas Community Leadership: with the Southeastern Minnesota Synod, “I’ve been involved in local ministerial including on Synod Council, a special gifts associations, including time as president, campaign member, and the Global Missions and on boards of local social service Companion Synod Table member, specifically ministries.” working closely with Pr. Wal Reat, an ELCA Missionary.” Ms. Madeline Kinn (1st term) Community Leadership: Demographics: “I am involved in clergy networks that Lay leader; Female; White; Young Adult offer community support in Golden Valley, Congregation/Conference: specifically with the Golden Valley Pride Zion Lutheran Church, Anoka; Rum River Festival. I also work closely with Noble Conference Elementary School. I have served with Infants Vocation/Employment: Remembered in Silence and served on the Life Enrichment Director at Havenwood of boards of Community Cafe in Faribault, MN Burnsville Senior Living and the United Way of Faribault.” Church Leadership: Other: “I am a participant in young adult small “Ministry is fundamentally joyful for me groups at church, volunteer with The and I have a relentless drive to articulate Gathering (care giver respite/support the Gospel of Jesus Christ for our time and group), youth bible study leader, participant place. I am intentional about bringing the in international and domestic mission trips, events of the wider world into dialogue with volunteer member of the decor team for the revelation of Scripture and the life of liturgical seasons, communion server, and our church. I seek to invite people into an I lead many different devotional and bible experience of God’s Living Word that bears studies at my workplace as well.” grace, mercy, and the power to transform our Community Leadership: lives and communities of faith.” “I was recently invited as a virtual guest at my high school to provide senior high Rev. Joseph Crippen (1st term) schoolers with information about senior Demographics: living and healthcare careers. Minister of Word and Sacrament I assisted with cleanup efforts in the Lake Congregation/Conference: Street neighborhood of Minneapolis after Mount Olive Lutheran Church, Minneapolis; the George Floyd riots. Central Conference I recently helped raise funds via volunteer Vocation/Employment: work for dementia and Alzheimer’s Pastor of Mount Olive foundations.” Church Leadership: Other: “I’ve served on the ELCA Church Council, “I’m an Augsburg University Alum, the Synod Council of both the Minneapolis dedicated to serving our elderly population. Area Synod and the Southeastern Minnesota I enjoy sharing and witnessing the growing Synod; I’ve served on the board of campus faith relationships with our young adult ministry for Minnesota State-Mankato; I populations in the church. Lastly, I like to have served on the Reference and Counsel learn about other cultures and languages, committee for ELCA Churchwide Assemblies, and to travel.” for the Southeastern Minnesota Synod and 29 NOMINEES (cont.)

and adult education; outreach ministries; 2022 Churchwide neighborhood engagement; mission and service opportunities Assembly Voting Members Community Leadership: Rev. Sarah Moat Wildfire Every Meal, Chair Demographics: Isaiah West Metro Minister of Word and Sacrament; Female; Other: Caucasian “I am a second-career Minister of Word & Congregation/Conference: Service, ordained in 2009, having obtained Gethsemane Lutheran Church of Hopkins; a Master’s degree in Congregational Western Parks & Lakes Conference Mission and Leadership from Luther Vocation/Employment: Seminary. I’ve served west-metro ELCA Pastor at Gethsemane congregations since 2001 as paid staff, Church Leadership: but began serving as a volunteer in my “I have leadership of our global mission home church around the age of 10 in many partnership in El Salvador along with our capacities over the years.” local social ministry team that addresses issues of poverty, injustice, and food and Ms. Susanne M. Ferkingstad housing instability in our community. I lead Demographics: our caring ministries, women’s ministry, Lay leader; Female; Caucasian education ministries (along with staff Congregation/Conference: leadership) and am involved in worship Faith-Lilac Way Lutheran Church, planning, regular preaching and teaching. Robbinsdale; Northwest Hennepin Community Leadership: Conference I am part of the Hopkins Race and Equity Vocation/Employment: Initiative (HREI) which is a collaborative Wiley Education Services> Concordia between the public schools, police University St. Paul Enrollment Counselor department, city, and faith community. As Church Leadership: a mother of three daughters I have been an Church Council; Chancel Choir avid supporter of the swim team, the dance Community Leadership: studio, and the cross country teams - doing Cherish All Children volunteer and Advisory my best to support their teams, coaches and Board Member p e e r s .” Other: Other: “I love to sing, cook (and eat), make “I am a trained spiritual director through greeting cards and laugh. Being a work in Christos Center. I find great solace and joy progress, I feel I grow each day in my faith. in the North Shore of Lake Superior and love Like everyone else, I cannot wait to get the MN Twins.” together with family and friends, hug them tight! Deacon Kirsten Kessel Demographics: Rev. Ian Coen-Frei Minister of Word and Service; Female; Demographics: Northern European Minister of Word and Sacrament; Male; Congregation/Conference: White; Young Adult First Lutheran Church of Crystal; Northwest Congregation/Conference: Hennepin Conference Faith Lutheran Church, Isanti; Northern Vocation/Employment: Conference Minister of Word and Service at First Vocation/Employment: Church Leadership: Pastor at Faith Lutheran 30 Worship leading; preaching; confirmation NOMINEES (cont.)

Church Leadership: as the center of the church. The care “I work very actively with the Stewardship, provided in healthcare is an enhancement Finance and Music & Worship committees, in of the care that our pastors provide. addition to the church council.” Continuing education for our seminarians Other: is a commitment of mine.” “I am a May 2020 graduate of the Lutheran School of Theology at Chicago, and began Mr. Jim Sandquist my solo call to Faith Lutheran in July. I Demographics: believe that through our collective power, Lay leader; Male; Caucasian the ELCA has the opportunity to engender Congregation/Conference: transformative change that can impact the Trinity Lutheran Church, Watertown; lives of those within and surrounding our Southwest Conference congregations.” Vocation/Employment: Retired Rev. Korla Masters Church Leadership: Demographics: Building Committee Chair; Cemetary Board Minister of Word and Sacrament; Woman; Treasurer; Capital Campaign Co-chair; White Stewardship; Covid Response Team Congregation/Conference: Community Leadership: Shepherd of the Lake Lutheran Church, Prior Commission on Aging; Planning Lake; Southwest Conference Commission; WeCab volunteer driver Vocation/Employment: Other: Pastor at Shepherd of the Lake “I am single, lifetime member of Trinity Church Leadership: Lutheran.Currently working part time at Southwest Conference participant; synod Target. Enjoy walking, biking, attending militant nonviolent direct action training and concerts and sporting events.” organizing Community Leadership: Ms. Eileen Nelson Southwest Metro Campaign Action Team Demographics: (Beacon Interfaith Housing) Lay leader; Female; Caucasian Congregation/Conference: Rev. Tania Hammer-Luken Trinity Lutheran Church, Watertown; Demographics: Southwest Conference Minister of Word and Sacrament; Female; Vocation/Employment: Caucasian Retired Congregation/Conference: Church Leadership: Allina Hospitals and Clinics/Mercy Hospital; Handbell choir member; funeral luncheon South Minneapolis Conference coordinator; altar guild co-chair; Bible Vocation/Employment: study leader Chaplain at Allina Community Leadership: Church Leadership: Volunteer at the school district and the ACPE Educator, Guest Speaker, Preacher Minnesota Landscape Arboretum Community Leadership: Other: “Diversity, equity, and inclusion is a large “I’m a life-long member of this church body part of my current role; volunteer at vaccine and its predecessor ALC church and have clinics; critical incident stress debriefing appreciated participating in its growth over Other: the years. Retirement with the volunteer “My calling in the clinical setting is opportunities and grandparenting are 31 predominantly focused on the congregation serving me well.” NOMINEES (cont.)

Mr. Luke Friendshuh song and loving presence.” Demographics: Other: Lay leader “I am beginning seminary in the fall of Congregation/Conference: 2021. I look forward to bringing my decade Holy Trinity Lutheran Church, New Prague; of experience as a teacher in the public Southwest Conference schools as well as my growing experience Vocation/Employment: as a seminarian to the Synod Assembly. Research Engineer at System Modeling I am particularly interested in the ways Institute that queer, interfaith, and racial justice Church Leadership: perspectives can inform and enrich the Council President; Leader of Strategic work of the church.” plan development; Small group leader; Confirmation mentor; Lead person for Holy Mr. Asefa Wakjira Trinity in the Congregations in Secular Age Demographics: Grant Lay Leader Community Leadership: Congregation/Conference: Hope house volunteer Our Redeemer Oromo Evangelical Church; Other: South Minneapolis Conference “I am the Father of 3 grown boys. I love the Vocation/Employment: peace, quiet and solitude of living in the Children and Youth Ministry Coordinator at country. One of my favorite “activities” is Our Redeemer Oromo Evangelical Church thinking.” Church Leadership: Coordinating Children and Youth Ministry; Rev. Wondimu Sonessa teaching Sunday School; preaching at Demographics: Church; coordinating mid-week service. Minister of Word and Sacrament Community Leadership: Congregation/Conference: Coordinating young adult ministry of Our Redeemer Oromo Evangelical Church; different emigrant Churches in Twin Cities South Minneapolis Conference Other: Vocation/Employment: “I was born and raised in rural Ethiopia to Pastor at Our Redeemer Oromo a family of Lutherans. I got my master of Church Leadership: divinity from San Francisco Theological Pastor Seminary and am currently a MTh student at Luther Seminary. I’m praying to pursue candidacy at ELCA.” Ms. Ina Ziegler Demographics: Lay leader; Female; White Rev. Timothy Schroeder Congregation/Conference: Demographics: Christ Church Lutheran; South Minneapolis Minister of Word and Sacrament; Male; Conference Caucasian Vocation/Employment: Congregation/Conference: Teacher at Minneapolis Public Schools Peace Lutheran Church, Coon Rapids; Rum Church Leadership: River Conference Racial Justice Task Force member; Altar Vocation/Employment: Guild member; Lector Associate Pastor at Peace; Admissions Community Leadership: Counselor at Luther Seminary “I am a member of the Morning Star Singers, Church Leadership: a threshold choir which ministers to people Lutheran Men in Mission Ambassador struggling with living and dying through (2020-Present); Extraordinary Lutheran Ministries Proclaim Chaplain (2018-20); 32 NOMINEES (cont.)

ELCA Youth Gathering Servant Companion Rev. Sherri Otto Coach (2015/2018); Pastoral Internship with Demographics: the American Church in Berlin, Germany Minister of Word and Sacrament; Female; (2016-17); Hospitality and Outreach Intern to White Lutheran Campus Ministry UofM- Twin Cities Congregation/Conference: (2014-2016); Director of Lutheran Campus Shepherd of the Hills Lutheran Church, Ministry to University of Wisconsin-Stout Edina; Crosstown Conference (2011-2014); Lutheran Youth Organization for Vocation/Employment: Northwest Synod of Wisconsin- Chaplain Associate Pastor at Shepherd of the Hills (2012-14); NW-Synod of Wisconsin ELCA Church Leadership: Malaria Campaign Coordinator (2011- “I work with kids of all ages in their faith 14); Bread for the World Board Member- formation, preach, lead Bible Studies, and Menomonie, WI Chapter (2007-2014) care for the needs of our congregation.” Community Leadership: Community Leadership: Lutheran Campus Ministry UofM-Twin “I am involved with a group of pastors Cities Board Member (2020-Present); from different denominations that gather Lutheran Campus Ministry UofM-Twin Cities for prayer towards racial justice, equity Development Committee (2017-Present); and peace. I am also part of a group that Lift Garage Development Committee is working towards housing an Asylum (2017-Present) Seeker at our parsonage.” Other: Other: “In my two paid vocations of being Pastor “This is my first call which started on and Admissions Counselor, I am strongly March 1, 2020. I retired from my first career called to lift up new leaders for the church. I where I worked as a Detention Deputy at believe youth and young adults are the future the Hennepin County Jail for 22 years. This of the Church and it is so important that all past year, I started my call, got married, generations hear the invitation to invest in bought a new home and was ordained. these young people to learn and carry the Whew!!” upcoming leadership roles of our churches. ” Ms. Anne Schaefer Ms. Emily Brown Demographics: Demographics: Lay leader; Female; White, non-Hispanic Lay leader; Female; Chinese; Young Adult Congregation/Conference: Congregation/Conference: Shepherd of the Hills Lutheran Church, Peace Lutheran Church, Coon Rapids; Rum Edina; Crosstown Conference River Conference Vocation/Employment: Vocation/Employment: Pastoral Intern at Shepherd of the Hills Youth Director at Peace Church Leadership: Church Leadership: Worship leading and planning; faith Youth Ministry; Office Administration; Sound formation/programming; Bible studies; Tech; Parking Lot Worship Assistant outreach; and others as needed or created Community Leadership: Community Leadership: Served as treasurer of the 4th Precinct Chaplain at Twin Cities Interfaith Advisory Council in Minneapolis Chaplains; President of Servant Other: Schoolhouse Preschool Board “I love God! I love the Dallas Cowboys! I try Other: to serve my congregation, my community, “I will be graduating with an MDiv from and my neighbor in whatever ways that I Luther Seminary in 2022, and I am hopeful can. I am excited to be starting Seminary at to serve in the Minneapolis Area Synod. My 33 Luther this summer.” NOMINEES (cont.)

husband and I have three kids - one in each Bloomington Faith Leaders; Twin college, high school and middle school. ” Cities Interfaith Movement Chaplains; Bloomington Housing Coalition; ISAIAH Ms. Shari Seifert Other: Demographics: “Before seminary I spent a year in the Lay leader Lutheran Volunteer Corps, working Congregation/Conference: as a Youth Ministry Coordinator at a Calvary Lutheran Church, Minneapolis; congregation in urban Chicago. Prior to Central Conference coming to Bloomington, I served four Vocation/Employment: congregations in rural . I Realtor RE/MAX Results - “I sell houses and value hard work, fast friendship, a lived dismantle white supremacy in the church.” faith, adventure, and am passionate about Church Leadership: discipleship and the work that God is doing MYLE core team - Cultural Awareness; Chair in our world today.” of Calvary’s Race Equity Committee; Synod’s anti-racism team (The Unite table); VP and Mr. Gregory Hornicke soon to be president of European Descent Demographics: Lutheran Association for Racial Justice Lay leader; Male; White (EDLARJ) Congregation/Conference: Community Leadership: St. Luke’s Lutheran Church; Bloomington Engaged with the community of George Conference Floyd Square including organizing multi- Vocation/Employment: faith vigils; training education committee Retired for Equity and Inclusion at RE/MAX Results; Church Leadership: part of Multi-faith Anti-racism and Healing Past 2 term music council member; choir; (MARCH) ring bells; assistant minister Other: Community Leadership: “When I attended the last CWA on behalf of Feed my Starving Children; Augsburg EDLARJ, I was asked by BIPOC folks - who Centennial Singers; Augsburg Masterworks were working on getting resolutions passed Chorale - if I was a voting member or if there were Other: EDLARJ voting members present; I had to “Church, my two kids and my two say “no” on both counts. They were looking grandchildren.” for white folks to speak to the resolutions. I am planning on being more prepared at the Rev. Aaron Fuller next 2022 and having myself and others in Demographics: place to offer support.” Minister of Word and Sacrament; Male; Korean Rev. Rory Philstrom Congregation/Conference: Our Father’s Lutheran Church, Rockford; Demographics: 394 Corridor North Conference Minister of Word and Sacrament; Male; Vocation/Employment: Caucasian Pastor, Our Father’s/Chaplain, US Navy Congregation/Conference: Reserve Christ the King Lutheran Church; Church Leadership: Bloomington Conference Churchwide involvement: M2SGF Working Vocation/Employment: Group (2015); ELCA Youth Gathering Main Lead Pastor at Christ the King Stage Speaker (2018); Va Synod Diversity, Church Leadership: Inclusion, & Justice Chair (2014-2017); Lead Pastor ELCA Federal Chaplaincy Centurion 34 Community Leadership: NOMINEES (cont.)

Connect Rep. (Va Synod 2013-2020; Mpls and Property committees; Lector and Area Synod, 2021-Present) Assisting Minister Community Leadership: Community Leadership: Assistant Wrestling Coach, Augsburg Chair-Crossroads Community Organization University Other: “As Navy Chaplain, 8 years providing “I love to travel with family and friends so leadership in advancing Spirituality within cannot wait until we are all safe in other the US Marine Corps, advancing efforts spaces to make that possible.” to integrate spirituality in mental health and resiliency approaches, and service Mr. Reuel Persaud level working groups to address suicide Demographics: prevention, diversity, and ethics programs in Lay leader; Male; Mixed the US Navy and Marine Corps.” Congregation/Conference: Other: House of Hope Lutheran Church, New “Graduate of the US Naval Academy and was Hope; Northwest Hennepin Conference a prior submarine warfare officer for 9 years Vocation/Employment: on active duty. A transracial Korean adoptee Services Consultant who grew up on a dairy farm in Central Church Leadership: MN. Married to Kelly Schumacher Fuller, Member of the Youth and Family who works at the Center for Leadership and Committee at House of Hope Lutheran Neighborhood Engagement.” Church Other: Ms. Yesenia Morales Bahena “I enjoy traveling, being active, and meeting Demographics: new people. I am passionate about serving Lay leader; Female; Latina others.” Congregation/Conference: University Lutheran Church of Hope, Rev. Jeffrey Schulz Minneapolis; Central Conference Demographics: Vocation/Employment: Minister of Word and Sacrament Seminarian at Wartburg Theological Congregation/Conference: Seminary and Legal Assistant at Steven C. Bethany Lutheran Church, Minneapolis; Thal, P.A Central Conference Church Leadership: Vocation/Employment: Compassion Care Ministry; Immigration and Pastor at Bethany Lutheran Sanctuary Network; lector Church Leadership: Community Leadership: “I am the solo pastor at Bethany Board Member of Legal Rights Center; leader Lutheran, regularly preaching, teaching, with ISAIAH; member of Mujeres Latinas administering the sacraments, and Network; Sanctuary Network providing pastoral care.” Community Leadership: Synod Vice President Felecia Boone “Bethany Lutheran continues to the life Demographics: of the greater community, continuing to Lay leader; Female; Black be the home of the Soup for You! Cafe Congregation/Conference: and Clothes Closet, living the Gospel Calvary Ev. Lutheran Church, Minneapolis; message of feeding and clothing the poor. Central Conference Additionally, Bethany has been part of Vocation/Employment: the Riverside Innovation Hub, looking at DEI Consultant at Hennepin County the participations of young adults in the Church Leadership: life of the church using a public church Synod VP; member of Calvary’s Race Equity framework.” 35 NOMINEES (cont.)

Other: Mr. Michael Tarras “I continue to hold dear the words of the late Demographics: Dr. Maya Angelou as part of my personal Lay leader; Male; White credo: “The question is not how to survive, Congregation/Conference: but how to thrive...with passion, compassion, Redeemer Lutheran Church; North humor, and style!”” Minnepolis Conference Vocation/Employment: Rev. Tyler Strom Sr. Technical Writer - Milestone Systems Demographics: Inc. Minister of Word and Sacrament; Male; Church Leadership: White 2009-2012 (Secretary), 2009 - Present Congregation/Conference: (Finance Committee Member) 2017-2020 Word of Peace Lutheran Church, Rogers; (Treasurer) 2021 - Present (Vice President) Western Waters Conference Community Leadership: Vocation/Employment: 2011 & 2012 - (Redeemer After-school Pastor at Word of Peace Program volunteer & teacher) 2013 - 2016 Church Leadership: (Assistant Coach for Northside Wrestling Oversee the ministry areas of local outreach, Club) global missions, volunteer ministry, strategic Other: planning and adult faith formation. “Born in Eau Claire, WI. Baptized at St. Community Leadership: John’s Lutheran Church on Highland Ave. Activity involved with partner organizations in Eau Claire. Father of two girls (10 and 7) of CROSS services, Dayton Mobile Hope, and both baptized at Redeemer.” School District 728 Community Partners. Mr. James Moat Ms. Anna Stockinger Demographics: Demographics: Lay leader; Male; Caucasian Lay leader; Female; White; Young Adult Congregation/Conference: Congregation/Conference: Gethsemane Lutheran Church, Hopkins; Our Saviour’s Evangelical Lutheran Church Western Parks & Lakes Conference of East Bethel; Northern Conference Vocation/Employment: Vocation/Employment: Clinical Research Consultant, IMARC EMT, Cambridge Medical Center, Allina Research, Inc. Health Church Leadership: Church Leadership: Worship band member; event photography; Youth Group Member, Sunday School confirmation mentor Teacher Community Leadership: Community Leadership: political volunteer Volunteer with Linwood fire department, Other: Volunteer with OEC Program, Run a Book “As a Pastor’s spouse, I’ve seen firsthand box for my neighborhood the long hours they put in, along with the Other: joys ministry can bring. Being a dad to “I grew up with three sisters just north of three amazing daughters has taught me so the twin cities, together we enjoy all things much about God’s grace.” that the Minnesota outdoors has to offer. Currently, I am a St. Cloud State University Mr. Gracious Msuya Nursing student who will graduate in May of Demographics: 2022. Throughout the last year I have greatly Lay leader; Black missed worshipping in person and seeing my Congregation/Conference: 36 church family. ” Minnesota Swahili Christian Congregation; NOMINEES (cont.)

South Minneapolis Conference Deacon Laurie Beckman Yetzer Church Leadership: Demographics: Chairman of the Church Council; Writing Minister of Word and Service; Female; church strategic plan; Leading online White services during pandemic; Applying for Congregation/Conference: loans/grants for our congregation; mentoring Woodlake Lutheran Church, Richfield; church youth Crosstown Conference Community Leadership: Vocation/Employment: Serves as an advisor-liaison for Tanzania Take Action Minnesota (ETI) which works with the Evangelical Church Leadership: Lutheran Church of Tanzania, Karagwe Unite Table Diocese, to build an agri-business college in Karagwe Tanzania, among other things; Serves as board member of Director for Axis Medical Centerin Minneapolis, MN - a 2022 Churchwide Assembly not-for-profit organization which provides Alternate Voting Members medical/healthcare services to low income communities in Minneapolis. Rev. Kaitlyn Forster Other: Demographics: “I’m a leader of a small mostly immigrant Minister of Word and Sacrament; Female; Swahili speaking church in Minneapolis, MN. Caucasian We love and serve God through caring for Congregation/Conference: one another. I believe in faith by action and Lord of Life Lutheran Church, Maple Grove; is passionate about education, mentoring Northwest Hennepin Conference youth, racial equity and social justice in Vocation/Employment: general both in and outside of the church.” Associate Pastor at Lord of Life Church Leadership: Ms. Emma Weilage Leading worship, pastoring people, and Demographics: engaging in the ministry at Lord of Life. Lay leader; Youth; Female; Asian Other: Congregation/Conference: “I’m a pastor, spouse, and mom of 2, who Faith-Lilac Way Lutheran Church, loves exploring the places where God is Robbinsdale; Northwest Hennepin calling. I enjoy wrestling with policies and Conference guiding documents to give compassion and Vocation/Employment: structure to our shared life together.“ Student at Armstron High School Church Leadership: Rev. Jodi Barry Youth representative and member of the Demographics: internship committee Minister of Word and Sacrament; Female; Community Leadership: Caucasian Fundraiser coordinator for Girls United; Congregation/Conference: softball; Best Buddies; NHS; and Grace University Lutheran Church, environmental club Minnneapolis; Central Conference Other: Vocation/Employment: “Somethings about me are that I like to go Chaplain - Abiitan Mill City (Ecumen) hammocking, camping, and biking. I also like Church Leadership: to try new foods around Minneapolis.” As needed Community Leadership: Mom’s Demand Action - Faith Community 37 Liason (NE Chapter) NOMINEES (cont.)

Other: Rev. Brian Mundt “I am strongly committed to the work of Demographics: the ELCA and specifically the Minneapolis Minister of Word and Sacrament; Male; Synod. It is wise for the church and synods White to make use of specialized ministers unique Congregation/Conference: skill set, especially in light of the pandemic Richfield Lutheran Church; Crosstown and the many (unmet) mental health needs Conference of ELCA members.” Vocation/Employment: Lead Pastor at Richfield Lutheran Mr. Paul Mikelson Church Leadership: Demographics: Spiritual Director Lay leader; Male; Caucasian Other: Congregation/Conference: “I am honored to be nominated as an Valley of Peace Lutheran Church, Golden alternate clergy voting member from the Valley; Northwest Hennepin Conference South Minneapolis Conference. I live in Vocation/Employment: the King Field Neighborhood of south Retired Minneapolis. The only other time I’ve been Church Leadership: to a Churchwide Assembly was in 2016, Vice Chair, MAS Candidacy Committee when I was a voting member from the Community Leadership: Northwest Synod of Wisconsin to the CWA Habitat for Humanity, Noble School Reading in New Orleans. These are powerful times Tutor, Loaves & Fishes to be the church and to grace-fully walk Other: with our neighbors.” “My grandfather was an ordained minister in the Lutheran ; I have been Ms. Eliza Thompson a lifelong Lutheran, attended a Lutheran Demographics: College (Augsburg) and have always been Lay leader; Female; White; Young Adult active in my local congregation.” Congregation/Conference: Bethlehem Lutheran Church; South Rev. Susan Engholm Minneapolis Conference Demographics: Vocation/Employment: Minister of Word and Sacrament; Female; “Current 4th year medical student at White Washington University in St. Louis. After Congregation/Conference: graduation this spring, I will be a resident Trinity Lutheran Church, Watertown; in internal medicine at the Mayo Clinic in Southwest Conference Rochester MN. I love studying medicine Vocation/Employment: and I am so excited to continue my work Pastor, on leave from call learning how to heal and connect with Church Leadership: o t h e r s .” Preaching, spiritual direction Church Leadership: Other: “Long time member at Bethlehem Lutheran “I am delighted to have the opportunity to since my baptism. Even from St. Louis, I serve as an alternate voting member! I have continue to be active at Bethlehem through been a pastor for 18 years and a part of this weekly participation in Adult Bible Study synod for the past 6 years.” over Zoom. When we are able, (pandemic or otherwise) I also like to volunteer as assisting minister. I have been active in VBS throughout my life, assisting my brother as he leads our Lutefisk dinner, 38 NOMINEES (cont.)

and singing when I get the chance. While Rev. Rebecca Gamble away, I have connected with local Lutheran Demographics: churches here in St. Louis, including Minister of Word and Sacrament; Female; assisting with Lutheran Campus Ministry. I White love church wherever I am.” Congregation/Conference: Community Leadership: Normandale Evangelical Lutheran Church, “As a medical student, I have engaged in a Edina; Crosstown Conference variety of community activities here in St. Vocation/Employment: Louis, ranging from extensive work with Associate Pastor at Normandale the local VA hospital to volunteering at the Church Leadership: Children’s hospital.” Head of Care and Outreach Ministries. Other: (Head of Adult Education - unofficially) “I love church. I believe the Lutheran church Community Leadership: has a uniquely powerful ability to connect Board Member of the “Transformation people with God and each other and I am Committee” for Lutheran Partners in Global passionate about building the church for the Ministry; Active Member of ISAIAH’s faith- f u tu r e .” based community organizing. Other: Mr. Colin Watkins “I have lived abroad for several years with Demographics: the ELCA’s Young Adults in Global Mission Lay leader; Male; White program (India), and as one of four annual Congregation/Conference: ELCA Horizon International Internships Christ Church Lutheran; South Minneapolis (Malaysia). My background in Social Work Conference and my passion for God’s tranformational Vocation/Employment: power to renew life deeply inform my Financial Planner, Waypoint Capital Advisors decision-making. I bring a diverse Church Leadership: background of congregational experiences, Choir; church council; endowment ranging from a tiny mission-start in TX committee (60% of congregation members under the age of 18), to a scrappy Minneapolis Rev. Eric Nelson “church for people who don’t like church”, Demographics: and my first pastoral call at a progressive Minister of Word and Sacrament; Male; White “mega church” (4,500+), to my present call Congregation/Conference: with a congregation which is well known St. Phillip’s Lutheran Church, Fridley; Rum for being steeped in traditional forms of River Conference Lutheran worship.” Vocation/Employment: Associate Pastor at St. Phillip’s Ms. Vishakha Kanwar Other: Demographics: “I am a recent graduate of Luther Seminary in Lay leader; Woman; Indian; Young Adult my first call as a pastor. I have work history in Congregation/Conference: camp ministry, youth ministry, and education. Normandale Evangelical Lutheran Church, When not at work, I enjoy family time with my Edina; Crosstown Conference spouse and our three young children.” Vocation: Student Church Leadership: Various leadership roles in guiding children and youth in their faith Community Leadership: 39 Adopt-a-highway (picking up garbage NOMINEES (cont.)

in the environment); Reading Buddies event hospitality (funerals, Augsburg (Normandale housing for children and vespers, music events), 100th anniversary families) committee. Activities: Bible study, Other: contemplative prayer group, participated in “I am a student attending UW-Eau Claire study groups for RIC, welcome statement, currently majoring in Psychology. What empowering conversations (current brings me the most joy is helping others find focus on IDI and anti-racism), Enneagram what makes them happiest and become the workshop (yeah for #8!); building tours for best version of themselves.” visitors.” Community Leadership: Rev. Bill Russell “I work full-time in a human-services Demographics: focused organization. I also work part-time Minister of Word and Sacrament; Male; (pre-Covid) as an usher at Orchestra Hall. White Working two-jobs makes my community Congregation/Conference: activities focused on phone banks and Augustana Lutheran Church, Minneapolis; letter/email advocacy. Vocal support Central Conference at public events and demonstrations Vocation/Employment: are sometimes possible. I do volunteer Pastor at Augustana document transcription on the Library of Church Leadership: Congress web-site, most recently on letters Full range of pastoral leadership and arts at to and from early suffragettes. Volunteer Augustana; Synod partnerships with Leipzig dining room host for the National Lutheran and Nigeria; ELCA rep to the Reformed Choir Christmas concerts.” Church in America Commission on Theology; Other: Guest Professor of Lutheran studies at Sabah “Most of my adult working life has been in Seminary, Malaysia, and Bronham Seminary, church-related organizations (Augsburg Nigeria. Fortress Publishers; Luther Seminary) Community Leadership: and has gifted me with a deep love for this Congregational strategic planning; Leipzig church and her people - sometimes in spite Partnership; Luther/Lutheran Studies; clergy of the tumultuous changes. I’m resilient text study; Minnesota Handball Association; and hopeful for the future. I love to sing. I Community Emergency Service Board. look forward to being able to travel again - Other: especially camping in northern MN.” “It would be an honor to serve as a voting member of the churchwide assembly. Rev. Erik Sevig That said, I pray that Jeffery does not have Demographics: occasion to withdraw.” Minister of Word and Sacrament; Male; Caucasian Ms. Judith Hedman Congregation/Conference: Demographics: Community of the Cross Lutheran Church; Lay leader; Female; Northern European Bloomington Conference Congregation/Conference: Vocation/Employment: Central Lutheran Church, Minneapolis; Pastor at Community of the Cross Central Conference Church Leadership: Vocation/Employment: Congregational Pastor Office Manager, Metropolitan Alliance of Community Leadership: Connected Communities Bloomington Housing Coalition; City Church Leadership: of Bloomington Racial Equity Strategic “Leadership: choir (including taking care of Planning Committee 40 music library and robes), lead public/special NOMINEES (cont.)

Other: “I was raised in the Faith by Bethlehem Lutheran of Aberdeen, SD and developed a sense of call to Pastoral Ministry at Klein Ranch Bible Camp and Concordia College - Moorhead. I thank God for the blessing of my wife Amy, two healthy and happy teenage sons, and a very sweet beagle named Summer.” Rev. Jeff Heiderscheit Demographics: Minister of Word and Sacrament; Male; White Congregation/Conference: Saint Barnabas Lutheran Church, Plymouth; 394 Corridor North Conference Vocation/Employment: Pastor at Saint Barnabas Church Leadership: Previous Conference Dean, and served on Leadership table Community Leadership: “I have been active in helping to facilitate the creation of two Youth Ministry TreeHouse sites, one in Plymouth, and one in Mound.” Other: “I have been an ordained pastor for 21 years. I am looking for ways to engage with the larger church body. I am in the first year of lead pastor of St. Barnabas Lutheran Church.”

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