THE 58th ANNUAL CONFERENCE REPORT & JOURNAL of the ASSOCIATION OF FREE LUTHERAN CONGREGATIONS August 10th - 12th, 2020
Conference Host: The Association Retreat Center
Conference Site: Association Retreat Center, Osceola, WI
Conference Theme: “Will He Find Faith?” Luke 18:8
AFLC OFFICERS President Rev. Lyndon Korhonen Plymouth, Minnesota
Vice President Rev. Terry Olson Grafton, North Dakota Secretary Rev. Micah Hjermstad West Fargo, North Dakota 2 TABLE OF CONTENTS Conference Agenda...... 6 A. General Reports (Committee #1) 1. President...... 10 2. Co-ordinating Committee Chairman...... 15 3. AFLC Director of Development...... 23 4. AFLC Foundation Chairman...... 25 5. Director of Institutional Chaplaincy...... 26 6. Director of Police & Fire Chaplaincy...... 28 7. Director of Military Chaplaincy...... 29 8. Director of the Association Retreat Center...... 31 9. Financial Reports of the AFLC Business Manager...... 35 10. Budget Analysis Committee...... 72 a. BAC Addendum...... 82 B. Evangelism & Benefits(Committee #5) 1. AFLC Evangelism & Discipleship Chairman...... 89 2. Director of Evangelism & Discipleship ...... 92 3. Benefits Board Chairman...... 95 C. Seminary and Bible School Reports (Committee #2) 1. Chairman Board of Trustees...... 96 2. President of the Free Lutheran Schools...... 99 3. Dean of the Seminary...... 103 4. Dean of the Bible College...... 106 5. Vice President of Operations ...... 109 D. Missions (Committee #3) 1. World Missions Committee Chairman...... 110 2. World Missions Director...... 112 3. Home Missions Committee Chairman...... 118 4. Home Missions Director...... 119 5. F.L.A.P.S. Executive Director...... 126 6. WMF President...... 128 E. Publications, Parish Education, and Youth Work (Committee #4) 1. Board of Publications & Parish Education Chairman...... 131 2. Parish Education Director...... 134 3.Youth Board Chairman...... 138 4. Free Lutheran Youth President...... 140 5. Youth Ministry Director...... 142 F. Colloquy Committee 1. Colloquy Committee Chairman (report given at opening service)...... 147
3 CONFERENCE JOURNAL
Conference Business Journal...... 148 Future Conference Dates ...... 185 Conference Reports - Corporations ...... 186 WMF Convention report and summary ...... 198 Conference Registrations...... 202 VITAE ...... 210 AFLC Statistical Report...... 222 Congregational Gifts for 2019 ...... 240 AFLC Officers & Committees/Boards ...... 257 AFLC Corporations ...... 275 Clergy Roster ...... 280 AFLC Congregational Roster ...... 288 Ecclesiastical Ballot Information ...... 293 AFLC Resolutions on Life & Family ...... 294 AFLC Fundamental Principles & Rules for Work ...... 296
4 AFLC FINANCIALS INDEX
Financials prepared by Headquarters Business Office
Co-ordinating Committee Corporation General Fund...... 42 Capital Investment...... 45 Lutheran Ambassador...... 46 Benefits Fund...... 47 Youth...... 48 Parish Education...... 49 Evangelism...... 51
Missions Corporation Home Missions...... 52 FLAPS & Builders Fellowship...... 55 World Missions...... 57
Financials prepared by Schools Business Office
Schools Corporation AFLTS (calendar year end )...... 66 AFLBS (calendar year end )...... 68 Vision (calendar year end )...... 72
Records kept by Individual/Corporation/Board
ARC Corporation ...... 39 AFLC Family Camp-Lake Bronson...... 75 Wilderness Camp...... 76 Bethany Bible Camp...... 77
5 THE 58th ANNUAL CONFERENCE of the ASSOCIATION OF FREE LUTHERAN CONGREGATIONS August 10th - 12th, 2020 Host Site – The Association Retreat Center, Osceola, WI “Will He Find Faith?”….. Luke 18:8 (2020 Committee order for conference business committees #1, #5, #2, #3, #4)
MONDAY - AUGUST 10TH, 2020 9:00 a.m. - The conference committees meet for devotions, instructions and room assignments.
NOON - Committee Lunch & WMF Lunch
7:00 p.m. - AFLC President Lyndon Korhonen will open the 2020 Annual conference. Opening Conference Service with Ordinations
Leader: Rev. Todd Klemme, Bagley, MN Speaker: Rev. Jerry Moan, Corcoran, MN Music: Mrs. Tammy Vukonich & Mrs. Viviann Christenson
- AFLC President Lyndon Korhonen will appoint necessary committees for conference business.
TUESDAY - AUGUST 11TH, 2020 7:00 a.m. - Chaplains Breakfast
8:30 - 8:45 a.m. - Conference Devotions (Kevin Hall, Newfolden, MN)
8:45 a.m. Session One - Credentials Committee Report Adoption of the Conference Agenda Adoption of the 2019 Conference Report
- Selection of Nominees for Corporation Positions (Missions, Schools, ARC)
- AFLC President’s Report President’s Report – Rev. Lyndon Korhonen, Plymouth, MN
- Committee Reports
6 10:15 a.m. - BREAK
10:45 a.m. Session One, Continued
- Nominations to Committees for Corporation Meetings Selection of Nominees to Committees for Corporation meetings: Board of Trustees (1) 1 Pastor World Missions (1) 1 Lay Home Missions (1) 1 Pastor FLAPS (1) 1 Lay Bay Broadcasting (1) 1 Lay ARC Board (1) 1 Lay
- Committee Reports (Continued)
11:40 a.m. - Prayer Time (Rev. Randy Nelson, AED Director; Brooklyn Park, MN)
NOON - Conference Lunch - HM-Builders Fellowship Luncheon
1:15 p.m. Corporation Meetings & Electives
- Schools Corporation and ARC Corporation Meetings
- 1:15 to 2:00 Electives: Home Missions, World Missions, & Co-Ordinating - 2:15 to 3:00 Electives: Home Missions, World Missions, & Youth
3:15 p.m. - BREAK
3:40 p.m. - Worship & Conference Devotions (Micah Klemme, Melvin, IL) 4:00 p.m. Session Two
- Committee Reports (Continued)
- Election of VP and Secretary
- Committee #1 Resolutions & Elections Report of Nominating Committee Selection of Nominees to the Co-ordinating Committee Election of Committee #1 for the next Conference (5 names, majority lay)
- Committee #5 Resolutions & Elections Report of Nominating Committee Selection of Nominees to Evangelism & Discipleship Board Board of Benefits Election of Committee #5 for next Conference (5 names, majority lay) 7 7:00 p.m. Missions Festival Service
WEDNESDAY - AUGUST 12TH, 2020 7:00 a.m. - FLAPS Breakfast
8:30- 8:45 a.m. - Conference Devotions, (Erin Tormanen, Stanley, ND)
8:45 a.m. Session Three
- Election of Nominating Committee 16 districts, 2 representatives from each
- Committee #5 Resolutions & Elections (Continued) - Committee #2 Resolutions & Elections Report of Nominating Committee (Nominees previously given to Corporation for Board of Trustees) Election of Committee #2 for the next Conference (5 names, majority lay)
- Committee #3 Resolutions & Elections Report of Nominating Committee (Nominees previously given to Corporation for World Missions, Home Missions, & FLAPS Board) Election of Committee #3 for the next Conference (5 names, majority lay)
10:15 a.m. - BREAK
10:45 a.m. Session Three (Continued)
- Committee #3 Resolutions & Elections (Continued) - Committee #4 Resolutions & Elections Report of Nominating Committee Selection of Nominees to Board of Publications & Parish Education Youth Board Election of Committee #4 for next Conference (5 names, majority lay)
11:40 a.m. - Prayer Time (Rev. Randy Nelson, AED Director; Brooklyn Park, MN)
NOON - Conference Lunch - Alumni Lunch
8 1:15 p.m. Corporation Meetings & Electives
- Missions Corporation Meetings
- 1:15 to 2:00 Electives: Schools, ARC, Co-ordinating Committee
- 2:15 to 3:00 Electives: Schools, Parish Ed, AED
3:15 p.m. - BREAK
3:40 p.m. - Worship & Devotions (Brian Lunn, Upsala, MN)
4:00 p.m. Session Four
- Reports of Corporation Annual Meetings
- Election of Special Committees Colloquy Committee for next Conference (5 Pastors) Budget Analysis Committee - Committee #1 General Resolutions
- Remaining Conference Business
2020 CONFERENCE COMMITTEE AFLC President, Rev. Lyndon Korhonen AFLC Secretary, Rev. Micah Hjermstad Journal Committee: Credentials Committee: Rev. Ron & Michele Smith ARC & AFLC Staff Rev. John & Velma Amundson Rev. Craig Wentzel Head Teller: Rev. Jon & Lynn Wellumson Rev. Jon Benson
Parliamentarians: Local Host Coordinators: Rev. Karl Anderson Mr. Kirk Rautio Rev. John Eidsmoe Mrs. Ruth Rautio Mr. Philip Peterson Mrs. Valerie Anderson Dr. Lyle Westrom Mrs. Mary Pollestad & ARC Staff
9 THE PRESIDENT’S REPORT To the 58th Annual Conference of the Association of Free Lutheran Congregations gathered at the Association Retreat Center in Osceola, WI August 10-12, 2020. The Theme of this year’s conference is: “Will He Find Faith?” taken from Luke 18:8. Jesus tells this parable on prayer and uses an unjust judge to illustrate that we, in contrast to this judge, have a just God who quickly brings about justice for His elect who cry to Him day and night. However, then comes this startling question in regard to the time when Jesus returns to earth. Will He find faith? It is a question that we should allow to “keep running” in the not-so-distant background of our minds. In our world we observe life going on from day to day with little thought about eternity. It seems that only when a “famous” person is taken from this world in an accident, that the world stops to think of family and may even mention prayer. However, as God’s elect, by faith in the work of Christ, may we be quick to call on our Heavenly Father day and night. It’s a good discipline in walking in the light with Jesus through life.
Harmony I am very thankful for the harmony that we experience within our AFLC. However, I do not take that for granted. Many of us have been through times of struggles within congregations and church bodies. We need to continue to strive to keep the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace (Eph. 4:3). I think about this as I consider the gifts that the Lord has given to His church. I read through minutes and reports from different boards, committees and corporations all working on a different part of AFLC ministry. Oh, there is tension at times as believers with different gifts and personalities react to one another, but as Eph. 4:2 is practiced, there is a resolve: “with all humility and gentleness, with patience, showing tolerance for one another in love.” Think of the understanding and love, along with speaking the truth in love that is required in a life-long marriage. So don’t think it too strange that you must allow Jesus to live through you and your giftedness to bear eternal fruit for His kingdom. Two of the reasons why I love harmony: (1) because I believe it glorifies God, and (2) it allows us to work efficiently. Think of the wasted time and money in our government this past year. Two parties that are trying to do what is “best” – not – for the good of this nation but for what will win the next election. In Jesus’ Church we are part of the only kingdom that will never fall. I love the revelation that God gave to Daniel in chapter 2 verses 34-35, “You continued looking until a stone was cut out without hands, and it struck the statue on its feet of iron and clay and crushed them. Then the iron, the clay, the bronze, the silver and the gold were crushed all at the same time and became like chaff from the summer threshing floors; and the wind carried them away so that not a trace of them was found. But the stone that struck the statue became a great mountain and filled the whole earth.” In verse 44 of this same chapter, God revealed to Daniel what that stone would become. “In the days of those kings the God of heaven will set up a kingdom which will never be destroyed, and that kingdom will not be left for another people; it will crush and put an end to all these kingdoms, but it will itself endure forever.” Isn’t it wonderful to be a part of a family that will last forever! I love being a part of this ministry and believe it is worthy of striving to work together well.
10 Pray, Pray, Pray Back in 2016 I called for us to pray for 40 pastors and 40 laymen. We thank the Lord that we are getting close to 40 new pastors. But, there are fewer laymen. Pastors, you have an opportunity in your congregations to disciple young, middle- age and older men to be lay preachers. Pray the Lord would call forth men that you can work with on a monthly basis to train how to prepare a sermon or a Bible Study. We face great needs in churches that cannot afford a full-time pastor. Think of the impact you and your congregation can have in training a shepherd for another congregation or perhaps your own when the Lord calls you elsewhere. Another possibility for our country churches is to consider joining two churches together into a parish so you can afford to pay a full-time pastor. Or perhaps you have another country church in your area that is in danger of closing. Approach them and see if they would be willing to join the AFLC and share a pastor with you. With that being said I want to place before you another prayer challenge. I believe the largest class we have ever had is 14 in one class in our seminary. Would you join me in praying for a class of 20? We are facing a critical need for pastors in the coming years and I want to keep that need before you. There is only One who can help us with this. The Lord of the church, Jesus Christ, is the One who must call forth men. But we can pray. I believe our theme verse applies to this area also. God is a God of miracles! We believe it would take an extraordinary work of God to have a class of 20 in our seminary. Will you join me in praying fervently for this? When the Son of Man returns, will He find faith on the earth?
Ministry As of January 2020 there are 253 congregations in the AFLC. We have lost a few more congregations from last year. Some are due to not being able to find an AFLC pastor and looking elsewhere. Some are congregations that have declined in numbers through the years and can no longer pay a pastor. I still believe there are viable ministries in many of these areas if we had a pastor who could be a “tentmaker” and visit diligently in the community to grow friendships with people. Periodically I hear from congregations that their pastor does not visit. That is up to the deacons of the congregation to hold your pastor accountable. They have been taught in our seminary the necessity of visiting parishioners. I am afraid it is very easy for young pastors to spend time in the office with email and administrative duties. A good guideline is: mornings in the office and afternoons for visiting. Pastors, consider spending one afternoon at home each week so you can spend one evening to visit those homes where the couples are working during the day. A home-going pastor makes a church-going people. Back in the 80’s we had a problem of pastors not staying very long in their congregations. I think the average stay back then was around 5 years. Thankfully that has lengthened out and many congregations have experienced longevity between church and pastor. Recently Dr. Mark Olson asked me if I ever have churches inquire about a Sabbatical for their pastor. I told him I only know of a few congregations that have taken that step in my tenure as president. So congregations, if your pastor has served you many years faithfully, one way for him to be refreshed would be to allow him some months off. Perhaps 6 weeks of 11 rest and 6 weeks of study to refresh his soul might be a good start. My office has a document that Pastor Bob Lee put together when he was president that can be a good beginning guide for you.
Finances Thank you so much for the way you have given this past year to the Lord’s work. The right form of the kingdom of God on earth is the local congregation. It is as you send in gifts to our various departments that they can do ministry. As a whole, the ministries of the AFLC received 80% of their subsidy requests. That does not mean that my role as president is to raise more money. It means that our ministries need to continue to adjust subsidy requests to be in line with past giving. Boards, Corporations and Committees: please follow the counsel that the Budget Analysis Committee has given you. The budgeting guidelines from the BAC were approved by the Annual Conference. No, in a free association you are not compelled to follow them, but they are there for the protection of the whole AFLC. Those on the Budget Analysis Committee have gifts and talents in line with finances and they are elected to help all of us.
Change The last few years we have experienced quite a bit of retirement on our campus. This year my secretary of 6 years, Karen Floan retired. Thank you, Karen, for your excellent work ethic and spirit as you served above and beyond the call of duty. Thank you also for leaving the office in such good order and making it so much easier for the one who would follow you. You are missed and we pray God’s blessing on you and Wayne in your retirement. After going two months without a secretary, I am so thankful for God’s provision of Chanel Pederson. Karen has spent some time training her in and Chanel has continued to fulfill the role of Executive Secretary with excellence. She comes to us from Sioux Falls, SD after going to our Bible College and then working as a receptionist at Abiding Savior in Sioux Falls. Since I am on the subject of retirement, I have been letting people know that this will be the last term I will serve as president unless the Lord would radically change something. Just prior to my election in 2013, there was a vote to change the rules for work and make the term of the president 4 years with a 2-term limit. You may remember that proposal was narrowly defeated. So I think it would be healthy for the AFLC if I would respect the sentiment of that vote and serve 3 terms for a total of 9 years. That would mean that 2 years from now in 2022, there would be an election for AFLC president. Also according to the ecclesiastical balloting rules, after serving 3 terms I would have to receive 75% on the first ballot and I don’t think that is very likely. So I think it would be better for you to be in prayer these 2 years and seek the Lord regarding who He wants to serve as the next president.
The future for the AFLC In a world where truth is denied and even churches turn away from the truth of God’s Word, how crucial is the need for an association of Lutheran churches who stand on the eternal, inerrant Word of God? The need has never been greater! What does it mean to you for future generations to hear and understand the truths of God’s Word? Though we may be small in light of other denominations, we have an extremely important role to stand for truth, and to be a Light in a dark world. God has never needed large numbers through which to do His work. Let us be 12 faithful to Him and His Word!
Thanks I thank the Lord for the opportunity to be a part of an eternal kingdom! Thank you, AFLC family, for praying for me that I might serve you well. Thank you, Linda, for being my best earthly friend and mate, and for traveling with me amidst broken and healed bones. Thank you again, Karen, for being such a faithful secretary these 6 years and the 6 years before that for Elden. Thank you Chanel for the excellent work you are doing and thanks Pastor Jorgenson for being a faithful assistant. Thank you all on the campus for the fellowship we enjoy around Jesus. Heaven will be sweet with no retirement there. May the Lord help us to lovingly serve Him until He comes to take us to glory! Pastor Lyndon Korhonen AFLC President
13 2019-2020 SPECIAL EVENTS (*attended for AFLC)
2019 May 13 Attended AFLTS Senior Recognition Banquet June 11 Attended Rekindle the Fire event June 11-14 2019 AFLC Annual Conference, Canadensis, PA July 1-5 Attended 2019 FLY Convention July 14 Closing Service for Saron Lutheran, Erskine, MN July 16 Farewell service for World Missions Director Del Palmer, Plymouth, MN July 20 100th Anniversary, Hope Lutheran, Northome, MN July 21 Installed Rev. Luke Berntson at Hope Lutheran, Northome, MN July 27 Funeral, Pastor Ron Pulscher, Ola, SD July 28 Installed Rev. Justin Nelson atAbiding Savior, Sioux Falls, SD July 29 – Aug. 2 Attended ARC Family Camp July 31 Attended ARC 40th Anniversary Supper Aug 2 Visitation, Pastor Kenneth Sortedahl, Spring Valley, WI Aug 4 Installed Rev. David Niemela at United Free, Greenbush, MN Aug 25 Installed Rev. Matthew Pillman at Christ the King, Pipestone, MN Sept 14 Attended Lutherans for Life Regional Convention, Rochester, MN Sept 17-19 AFLC Pastors Conference, the Association Retreat Center Sept 29 Installed Rev. David Jore at Maple Bay Free Lutheran, Mentor, MN Sept. 29 125th Anniversary, Maple Bay Free Lutheran, Mentor, MN Oct 13 Installed Rev. Eric Swenson at Stavanger Free, Garden City, IA Oct 18 Funeral, Pastor George Knapp, Sunburg, MN Nov 4 Funeral, Pastor Tom Baker, Plainview, TX Nov 24 Installed Pastor Hector Hiraldo at Resurrection, San Juan, PR
2020
Jan 5 Installed Pastor Peter Ford, Jr. at St. Paul’s Lutheran, Mansura, LA Feb 16 Welcomed the Waikiki Beach Gathering to the AFLC, Honolulu, HI Mar 6 Visitation for Joel Schram, son of Rev. Greg Schram, Oslo, MN Mar 14 Installed Rev. Tom Olson at Hope AFLC Church, Enderlin, ND May 31 Ordained Seth Moan at Solid Rock Free Lutheran Church, Anoka, MN June 3 Commissioned Home Missions Barnabas Team June 14 Ordained Kevin Hall at Bethel Free Lutheran Church, Grafton, ND June 21 Installed Kevin Hall at Westaker Free Lutheran, Newfolden, MN June 28 Ordained & Installed Bryce McMinn at Ruthfred Lutheran, Bethel
14 REPORT OF THE COORDINATING COMMITTEE To the 58th Annual Conference of the Association of Free Lutheran Congregations gathered at the Association Retreat Center, Osceola, WI, August 10-12, 2020. Our conference theme, “Will He Find Faith” is based on Luke 18:8b, “when the Son of Man comes, will he find faith on the earth?” The context here is a parable Jesus told to His disciples that “they ought always to pray and not lose heart.” He told of a judge “who neither feared God nor respected man” and a widow who persistently came seeking “justice against her adversary.” Because of her persistence, eventually he gave her justice. Jesus then said to His disciples, ”will not God give justice to his elect, who cry to Him day and night … I tell you, He will give justice to them speedily. Nevertheless, when the Son of Man comes, will He find faith on the earth?” As we look around our world at the various religious entities, both within and outside of “Christianity,” it is not hard to find examples of organized religious entities that either never did, or no longer do, profess faith in Jesus Christ as the sole pathway to eternal life. So the question Jesus posed is one that we need to seriously consider. Will we remain faithful? As an AFLC? As individual Christians? May it never be the case that we let anything, anything at all, supplant Jesus as the sole basis for our hope of eternal life, so that when He returns He will find faith among us.
FUNDAMENTAL PRINCIPLES PROJECT Last year we reported that the Fundamental Principles of the AFLC Bible Study was “in the final stages of editing and hopefully will be ready for printing yet this year.” The preparation, piloting, and revising has essentially been completed and, we believe, is ready to be used. At the time of this writing, details related to getting the study published have not yet been determined.
PROPERTY Last year, we also reported on needed repairs to the driveway and parking areas along the north side of the Administration Building. That project will re-construct the grade to re-direct the water flow away from the building and re-pave this area. The cost of this project is approximately $70,000. At the time of this writing, we are still in the process of accepting bids to get this work completed this summer. Gutters and downspout screens were added to the Administration building last summer.
MISSION STATEMENT Last year, we reported on the process we went through to formalize our mission statement as the primary administrative board within the AFLC. We referred to it as “Triple-A Assurance,” – Advance, Administer, Assist. We are repeating the statement here again to emphasize the primary functions entrusted to us in our own Fundamental Principles. ADVANCE: AFLC Rules for Work: Rule 9a states: “The Coordinating Committee shall seek to make known the Fundamental Principles and Rules for Work of the AFLC and further discussions of the same throughout the congregations, so that the task of the AFLC, in an ever increasing degree, may be more clearly understood and more generally put into practice.” ADMINISTER: AFLC Rules for Work: Rule 9d states: “It shall compile parochial statistics and report thereon to the Annual Conference. It shall maintain the clergy and congregational rosters of the AFLC.” 15 AFLC Rules for Work: Rule 9e states: “It shall have charge of the AFLC General Fund, from which shall be paid the salaries of the president, secretary, transportation secretary, traveling expenses, and expenses incurred in conjunction with the Annual Conference.” ASSIST: AFLC Rules for Work: Rule 9c states: “When desired, it shall assist congregations and pastors by giving counsel and guidance.”
PERSONNEL CHANGES In October, Karen Floan submitted her resignation from her position as Executive Secretary to the President of the AFLC. Thank you, Karen, for your many years of dedicated service to the Lord and to the AFLC. In December, Ms. Chanel Pederson accepted this position and began her work for us in January. Welcome, Chanel, we are glad to have you as a part of our team.
PASTOR AND CONGREGATIONAL CARE TEAM (PACCT) The Pastor and Congregational Care Team (PACCT) is a new ministry of care and support to pastors, their spouses and congregations. This team of pastoral couples and laypeople exists to nurture healthy pastors, wives and congregations; coming alongside to provide a listening ear, a caring heart, and a supporting hand. They seek to provide prevention, intervention and recovery care. PACCT received a H.I.S. grant to begin its formation. The current team consists of Rev. Jerry & Kristi Nelson, Pastor Eric and Andrea Christenson, Pastor Lee & Carol Hoops, Tom & Linda Mathre and Rev. Randy and Brenda Nelson. Financial support can be sent to the AFLC General Fund/PACCT. More details of this ministry can be found at aflc.org/pacct.
THE LUTHERAN AMBASSADOR EDITORIAL BOARD Rev. Christian Andrews was appointed to the Editorial Board of The Lutheran Ambassador replacing Rev. James L. Johnson who resigned upon accepting a call to serve as Director of AFLC Home Missions.
THE LUTHERAN AMBASSADOR TASK FORCE In accordance with the resolution passed by the conference in Pennsylvania, representatives from the Coordinating Committee, Missions and Schools met to discuss the funding of the Lutheran Ambassador. It was decided that funding would remain as it is for the next two years. In that time we are going to pursue publishing the Lutheran Ambassador in a digital format, while continuing the printed version, with the goal of increasing readership by making it more easily accessible. We will also be looking to change how the Lutheran Ambassador is funded. Four options were presented. First, encourage those with a passion for the Lutheran Ambassador to underwrite the cost of producing and publishing the magazine. Second, remove the subscription cost and publish it with a request for donations to support the producing and publication of the magazine. Third, maintain subscriptions with a price difference for the print version and the digital version. Fourth, continue subscriptions and offer churches a price break for larger, bulk subscriptions.
THE LUTHERAN AMBASSADOR There has been ongoing discussion in recent years regarding the Lutheran Ambassador and the potential to move it to electronic delivery. While we are not opposed to this delivery method, we believe that it could substantially limit access to a number of our people, especially those who are older. As part of this 16 discussion, we have gathered distribution data regarding the number of magazines that were mailed in a particular month for the past few years. Here is a summary of what we found: July 2017 – 2617 July 2018 – 2505 (just before the price increase) July 2019 – 2350 (about 1 year after the price increase) November 2019 -- 2332 There has been a decrease over time, but we are still operating under budget. We will continue to look at the possibility of alternate forms of delivery. We currently print about 2600 copies each month.
ROSTERING OF PASTORS DOCUMENT One of the responsibilities of the Coordinating Committee is to perform an annual review of our Rostering of Pastors document. We completed that review in January and made a number of revisions. Most of them were minor, updating the language in the document to be consistent with how the Schools Corporation has renamed the Seminary.
CLERGY ROSTER The following pastors have been added to the Regular Pastor Roster: Rev. Kevin Czymbor (ordained June 2019) Rev. Kendal Flaten (ordained June 2019) Rev. Scott Guhl (moved from Fellowship Roster) Rev. Justin Nelson (ordained May 2019) Rev. David Niemela (ordained June 2019) Rev. Matthew Pillman (ordained June 2019)
The following pastors have been added to the Fellowship or Licensed Roster: Dr. Patrick Charles (Fellowship Roster) Pastor Peter Ford, Jr. (Licensed Pastor) Pastor Hector Hiraldo-Sosa (Licensed Pastor) Pastor Eric Johnson (Licensed Pastor)
The following pastors have been removed from the Clergy Roster: Rev. Lee Kuhns Rev. Gary Skramstad Rev. David Tilney
The following pastors have passed (in alphabetical order): Rev. John Abel (deceased April 2020) Rev. Thomas L. Baker (deceased October 2019) Rev. George Knapp (deceased October 2019) Rev. Ronald Pulscher (deceased July 2019) Rev. Kenneth Sortedahl (deceased July 2019) Pastor Kenneth Thoreson (deceased July 2020) Pastor Lyle Twite (deceased May 2020) Pastor Roger David (deceased May 2020)
17 CONGREGATIONAL ROSTER UPDATES AFLC congregations added to the Congregational Roster of the AFLC this past year: The Source, Mesa, AZ Waikiki Beach Gathering, Honolulu, HI Resurrection Lutheran Church, San Juan, PR Center Free Lutheran Church, Salem, SD
The following congregations have been removed or closed: Abiding Savior Lutheran, North Royalton, OH Community of Grace Ev. Lutheran, Elkhorn, NE Singsaas Lutheran, Hendricks, MN
PASTORAL VACANCIES At the time of this writing, the following congregations are without a full-time pastor: (*May be too small to support a full-time pastor) United Lutheran Church, Manteca, CA Cross and Crown Lutheran Church, Montebello, CA* Community Lutheran Church, Oceanside, CA Mission Lutheran Church, Swink, CO Christian Free Lutheran Church, Wheatland, IA Good Shepherd Lutheran Church, Lincoln, IL Lisbon Bethlehem Evangelical Lutheran Church, Newark, IL Redeemer Free Lutheran Church, Ontonagon, MI Bethany Free Lutheran Church, Bemidji, MN* Landstad Lutheran Church, Shevlin, MN Hegland Free Lutheran Church, Strandquist, MN Maranatha Free Lutheran Church of Ulen, Ulen, MN Good Shepherd Lutheran Church, Virginia, MN Ny Stavanger Free Lutheran Church, Buxton, ND Our Saviour’s Lutheran Church, Dickinson, ND St. Paul Lutheran Church of Dodge, Dodge, ND Grace Free Lutheran Church, Edinburg, ND Golgotha Lutheran Church, Golden Valley, ND Victory Free Lutheran Church, Park River, ND Taylor Lutheran Church, Taylor, ND St. Olaf Lutheran Church, Chamberlain, SD Pukwana Free Lutheran Church, Pukwana, SD New Hope Free Lutheran, Sisseton, SD Faith Lutheran Church, El Campo, TX Amery Free Lutheran Church, Amery, WI Cornerstone Lutheran Church, Argyle, WI Trinity Lutheran Church, Boscobel, WI Trinity Free Lutheran Church, Janesville, WI Our Redeemer’s Free Lutheran Church, Superior, WI
At the time of this writing, the following congregations are being served by an interim pastor: Holmes Evangelical Lutheran Church, Eagle Grove, IA (Jerome Nikunen) Grace Free Lutheran, Dekalb, IL (Michael Hodge) Helmar Lutheran, Newark, IL (Steve Lombardo) St. Mark’s Free Lutheran, Indianapolis, IN (Terry Englert) Maranatha Free Lutheran Church, Chassell, MI (Mike Klenner) Abiding Word Lutheran Church, Felch, MI (Erling Langness) Grace Free Lutheran Church, Pelkie, MI (Dave Hoskins) Solid Rock Free Lutheran Church, Anoka, MN (Wayne Hjermstad) 18 Alida Lutheran Church, Bagley, MN (Dale Adams) Rice Lutheran Church, Bagley, MN (Dale Adams) Chippewa Lutheran, Brandon, MN (Steve Junker) Zion Lutheran, Dexter, MN (Mark Olson) St. John’s Lutheran, Finlayson, MN (Gary Zikan) Mr. Sion Lutheran, Kasson, MN (Mark Olson) Immanuel, Springfield, MO (Christian Andrews) Our Savior’s Lutheran, Dillon, MT (Justin Hartman) Calvary Free Lutheran Church, Bismarck, ND (Kerry Stastny) North Prairie Free, Churchs Ferry, ND (Michael Rohrer) Salem Free, Freeman, SD (Harold Willisteen) Amazing Grace, Mitchell, SD (Rodney Goldammer) Triumph Lutheran, Ferndale, WA (Del Palmer) Elim Lutheran Church, Lake Stevens, WA (Herb Hoff)
ORGANIZATION At last year’s Annual Conference, Rev. Mark Johnson was elected to a five-year term on the Coordinating Committee. Mr. Lowell Watt has completed his second five-year term and is not eligible for re-election. Officers elected for the Coordinating Committee are: Chairman: Dr. Dan Mundfrom Vice-Chairman: Rev. Tom Schierkolk Secretary: Mr. Lowell Watt Treasurer: Mr. Ron Strand Rev. Tim Johnson, Dr. Lyle Westrom, and Rev. Mark Johnson also serve on the Committee.
BUDGET The proposed budget for the General Fund for the 2021 fiscal year is $815,009. We are requesting a conference subsidy in the amount of $475,000. Respectfully submitted, Dan Mundfrom, Chairman AFLC Coordinating Committee
19 AFLC CLERGY ROSTER *Placed on roster this past year or from FR
Rev. Lyle Aadahl Rev. Kendal Flaten* Rev. Jonathan Abel Rev. Michael J. Flechsig Rev. Paul Abel Rev. Leroy Flickinger Rev. Alex Amiot Rev. David Franz Rev. John C. Amundson Rev. Peter Franz Rev. Karl Anderson Rev. Richard Frederick Rev. Richard Anderson Rev. Chad Friestad Rev. J. Christian Andrews Rev. David Fruehauf Rev. Daniel M. Antal Rev. James Fugleberg Rev. Mark Antal Rev. Kevin Garner Rev. Alan Arneson Dr. James C. Gerdeen Rev. Joel S. Baker Rev. Dan Giles Rev. Louis F. Balderach Rev. Thomas Gilman Rev. Matthew Ballmann Rev. Richard Gilmore Rev. Ray Ballmann Rev. William Goodman Rev. Tim Banks Rev. Dennis D. Gray Rev. David R. Barnhart Rev. Scott Gray Rev. Walt Beaman Rev. Alvin Grothe Rev. Alan Bedard Rev. Jason Gudim Rev. Craig Benson Rev. Scott Guhl Rev. Jon Benson Rev. Richard Gunderson Rev. Mark Benz Rev. Larry Haagenson Rev. Luke Berntson Rev. James Haga Rev. Steve Berntson Rev. Marlin Harris Rev. Brett A. Boe Rev. Kenneth Hart Rev. Michael Brandt Rev. Gary A. Haug Rev. John M. Brennan Rev. Philip Haugen Rev. Ron Brubakken Rev. Everett Hind Rev. Rob Buechler Rev. David Hinrichs Rev. Steven P. Carlson Rev. Micah W. Hjermstad Rev. Timothy Carlson Rev. Wayne Hjermstad Rev. Richard Carr Rev. Brad Hoefs Rev. John R. Chandler Rev. Herbert Hoff Rev. Frank Cherney Rev. Jason Holt Rev. Tomasz Chmiel Rev. Phillip Hooper Rev. Eric R. Christenson Rev. Martin Horn Rev. Andy Coyle Rev. Jan Horne Rev. Dana Coyle Rev. Raynard Huglen Rev. Jeremy Crowell Rev. Daniel Hurner Rev. Terry Culler Rev. Jarrod Hylden Rev. Kevin Czymbor* Rev. Dean J. Iverson Rev. Brian L. Davidson Rev. Scott Jans Rev. Norman E. Dornquast Rev. Steven E. Jensen Rev. Connely Dyrud Rev. Henry Johansen Rev. Nick Dyrud Rev. Craig Johnson Rev. Rob Edwards Rev. David A. Johnson Rev. John Eidsmoe Rev. David W. Johnson Rev. Curtis Emerson Rev. Gideon R. Johnson Rev. Luke Emerson Rev. James L. Johnson Rev. Eugene W. Enderlein Rev. James R. Johnson Rev. Todd Erickson Rev. Leslie Johnson Rev. Richard L. Ewing Rev. Mark S. Johnson Rev. Joe Faldet Rev. Michael F. Johnson Rev. Arlo Feiock Rev. Rodney Johnson Rev. Dale Finstrom Rev. Roy B. Johnson Rev. Kirk Flaa Rev. Timothy L. Johnson 20 Rev. Walter Johnson Rev. Dennis Norby Rev. Wendell Johnson Rev. Bradley D. Novacek Rev. Timothy S. Jones Rev. Kris A. Nyman Rev. Ben Jore Rev. Joe Ocker Rev. Nathan Jore Rev. Aaron R. Olson Rev. Gary L. Jorgenson Rev. Andrew Olson Rev. Ted H. Kennedy Rev. Brent Olson Rev. John Kent Rev. David G. Olson Rev. John H. Kiehl Rev. Kevin J. Olson Rev. Lynn Kinneberg Rev. Mark Olson Rev. Paul M. Kinney Dr. Nathan Olson Rev. Howard Kjos Rev. Rodger Olson Rev. Todd Klemme Rev. Terry L. Olson Rev. Mike Klenner Rev. Thomas C. Olson Rev. Ray Klug Rev. Thomas W. Olson Rev. Charles L. Knapp Rev. Wayne A. Olson Rev. Jesse T. Kneeland Rev. Dennis O’Neil Rev. Paul Kneeland Rev. Adam Osier Rev. Steve Kneeland Rev. Del Palmer Rev. Ronald Knutson Rev. Ryan Patenaude Dr. Johan Koren Rev. Brian Pearson Rev. Earl Korhonen Rev. LeRoy C. Petersen Rev. Lyndon Korhonen Rev. David L. Peterson Rev. Ivars Krafts Rev. David P. Peterson Rev. Christopher Kumpula* Rev. Gerald R. Peterson Rev. Wesley Langaas Rev. Michael Peterson Rev. Jon Langness Rev. Matthew Pillman* Rev. Dale Lankford Rev. Tonnes Pollestad Rev. Richard P. Larson Rev. Brad Putnam Rev. George Lautner Rev. Lloyd Quanbeck Rev. John E. Lee Rev. Matthew Quanbeck Rev. Robert L. Lee Rev. Brent S. Raan Rev. Robert W. Lee Rev. Marc Rakow Rev. Brent A. Logeman Rev. Richard L. Ramsbacher Rev. Patrick Lohse Rev. Eric Rasmussen Dr. Steven Lombardo Rev. James Rasmussen Rev. Richard Long Rev. Thomas Reagan Rev. David Lusk Rev. Doug Reitsch Rev. Ryan J. Mairs Rev. Mark Richardson Rev. Brandon Marschner Rev. Donald Richman Rev. Shane McLoughlin Rev. Brian R. Ricke Rev. Mel Meyer Rev. James Ritter Rev. Bill Mitchell Rev. Philip Rokke Rev. Jerry Moan Rev. Joel Rolf Rev. Wade Mobley Rev. Alvin Sather Rev. Kenneth Moland Rev. Craig Scavo Rev. James Molstre Rev. Thomas Schierkolk Rev. Mark Molstre Rev. Todd Schierkolk Rev. Stephen Mundfrom Rev. Irvin Schmitke Rev. Paul Nash Rev. Greg Schram Rev. Barry L. Nelson Rev. Nick Schultz Rev. David A. Nelson Rev. Larry Severson Rev. Elden Nelson Rev. Gary Simons Rev. Jerry A. Nelson Rev. John Skeie Rev. Justin Nelson* Rev. Joshua Skogerboe Rev. Matthew W. Nelson Rev. David Skordahl Rev. Randy Nelson Rev. Timothy K. Skramstad Rev. Allan Ness Rev. Kerwin Sletto Rev. David Niemela* Rev. Richard Sliper Rev. Jerome C. Nikunen Rev. Ronald Smith 21 Rev. Stephen Snipstead Rev. Kent Sperry Rev. Gerald L. Steele Rev. Matthew Steendahl LICENSED PASTORS (+permanent) Rev. Tony Stockman Pastor Brady Arneson Rev. Edward Strom Pastor Kevin Borg Rev. Scott K. Stroud Pastor William Buck+ Rev. Gordon Strunk Pastor Peter Ford, Jr.* Rev. Jeff Swanson Pastor Curt Frankhauser+ Rev. Eric J. Swenson Pastor Glenn Frecks+ Rev. Gordon Thorpe Pastor Don Gillespie Rev. Kirk Thorson Pastor Justin Hartman Rev. Ryan Tonneson Pastor Hector Hiraldo* Rev. Thomas R. Tuura Pastor Lee Hoops+ Rev. Jonathan Unverzagt Pastor Eric Johnson* Rev. Jeremy Vance Pastor Kent Klawonn Rev. Israel Vazquez-Flores* Pastor Luke Long Rev. Don Voorhees Pastor Henry Mohagen+ Rev. Joel Walde Pastor Donald Norr+ Rev. Peter Ward Pastor Mark E. Olson Rev. Roy Warwick Pastor Mark A. Ostrem+ Rev. Gordon L. Waterman Pastor Roger Pahl Rev. Jon Wellumson Pastor Warren Swanson+ Rev. Samuel Wellumson Pastor Eric Westlake+ Rev. Craig Wentzel Pastor Clayton Wilfer Rev. Calvin Willard Rev. George R. Winston LAY PASTORS FELLOWSHIP ROSTER Pastor Don Edlund Dr. Patrick Charles* Pastor Robert Grebel Rev. Ronald B. Dahle Pastor Dean Lyste Rev. Richard Erickson Pastor Michael McCarlson Rev. Chad Forman Rev. David Jore Rev. Joel W. Kangas Rev. James Lindgren Rev. Ken Marquardt Rev. Tom Parrish Rev. Dave Ryerson Rev. Richard Taylor Rev. Donald C. Thorson Rev. Noel Vold Rev. James Westgate
FR approved pending a call Rev. Ron Wik (pending a call)
22 DIRECTOR OF DEVELOPMENT To the 58th Annual Conference held at The Association Retreat Center on August 10th through the 12th 2020. The theme for this year is “Will He Find Faith?” Luke 18:8 which has raised a very serious question for me personally and maybe for you. As I sit and write this report the Coronavirus is causing fear and panic across this nation and the world. But I am reminded that God is still on the throne and is today. The nation was worried about how we are going to get through this virus and what is needed to make that happen. The one thing that was not mentioned by the news media was prayer. The reading of the Word and prayer is what we needed during the Coronavirus and we still need that now. I hope that many returned to their faith in Christ and that some found faith for the first time during the virus. I hope that God finds faith and prayer first in all of us and that we learned from the past virus. This March marked nine years for me as the Director of Development for the AFLC. During those 9 years I have travelled through many states and cities visiting many of you and have seen how God has truly been faithful and blessed the AFLC through all its people. These same people are the ones that give financially to support the 10 ministries of the AFLC. I thank God for the 9 years that I have been able to serve you as a people and the Lord. The Development department is funded by the 3 major corporations of the AFLC, (Co-Ordinating Committee, Schools Corporation, Missions Corporation). An endowment fund has been established to fund the department. When the endowment is fully funded the 3 major corporations will no longer have to fund the Development Department. This past year I traveled 33 weeks out of 52 to 18 states and visited 283 donors out of the 700 major and potential donors on the Development Departments list. The Development Department’s goal is to gain 10 to 15 new major donors each year, while maintaining the ones we currently have. Unfortunately, each year we lose some major donors that the Lord takes home to be with Him. Experts tell us that a development person should only have between 150 to 200 donors on their case load. The national average for Return On Investment (ROI) for nonprofit development personnel is 5 to 1. This means that for every dollar that an organization spends on a development person in salary and travel expenses the development person is to bring in five dollars. The AFLC Development Department ended 2019 with a ROI of 7.6 to 1, which was calculated on actual gifts given by 555 major donors. The development department calculates its ROI based on the major donors that have given a $1000.00 or more not including tuition, room and board or books for the Seminary and Bible College. I would like to see this ROI 10 to 1. We calculated the ROI average was for the past four years and the four-year average is 15 to 1, for which we praise the Lord. 23 The Development Department has a great ministry in serving you as donors of the AFLC ministries. It is our responsibility to build relationships with existing major donors and potential new major donors. We help them learn about the opportunities that are available for them to be a blessing to the ten AFLC ministries (Free Lutheran Bible College, Free Lutheran Seminary, Association Retreat Center, Women’s Missionary Federation, General Fund of AFLC, Youth Ministries, Association Evangelism Discipleship, Parish Education, Home Missions and World Missions). We’d like each of you to be informed about each ministry and their budgets and projects so you can pray and give financially. The local pastor shares as much information as they can to their parishioners. The Development Department shares information about the ministries of the AFLC. It also shares with people about estate planning. The seven attorneys from a Charitable Estate Planning seminar that I attended taught me that the majority of Estate Planning Attorneys have been trained to approach them from the stand point to leave it to their children which is admirable but they very rarely ask if they want to leave it to their church or charitable institution. I get the privilege of sharing avenues that can help them give to the ministries of the AFLC. I can direct them to an attorney who can help them use estate instruments that will give them income for life. I don’t give legal advice but I can share instruments for them to consider and to bring up to their attorneys. I have been made aware of many donors that are including ministries of the AFLC in their estate plans. Please take a look at the AFLC web site and under ministries click on Development and then click on planned giving for some resources that we have made available for donors to take advantage of. It continues to be a tremendous privilege to serve the AFLC as Development Director. I am very grateful for all of the directors and presidents who continue to give me tremendous support. I am very blessed to meet with donors of our AFLC family who also bless, encourage and pray for me. I want to thank the Lord first for His gracious hand upon me as I travel. I want to thank President Korhonen, Assistant to the President Pastor Jorgenson and the Coordinating Committee for their continued prayers, encouragement, guidance and support this past year. I especially want to thank my wife for all of her understanding, support and prayers during this past year of traveling. In His Service Tonnes Pollestad AFLC Director of Development
24 THE AFLC FOUNDATION
To the 58th Annual Conference of the Association of Free Lutheran Congregations assembled at the Association Retreat Center, Osceola, WI on August 10-12, 2020. This year’s theme conference theme of “Will He Find Faith” is prefaced with the coming of the Son of Man. My first thoughts drift negatively toward the secularism of our country and far too often, the churches of our country. I find myself quickly answering, “No.” But then the Spirit of God convicts me not to blindly apply this to everyone else, but first to myself. Will He find faith in me? Will He find faith in my circles of influence? All of a sudden, I realize my need for daily refreshment from God’s Word as well as my need to be about the mission Jesus has called me to. As far as it depends upon me, and thankfully the empowerment of the Holy Spirit, the Son of Man will find a “Yes!” with me and my circles of influence. What will your answer be? In 2019, the Foundation Board met two times to review the Foundation funds and distribute grants to various AFLC ministries in accordance with the funds’ guidelines. We were able to distribute $15,000 to fifteen different requests ($1,000 per request) all from the Unrestricted Fund. The Foundation Board oversees and grants from the following funds: The AFLC Foundation ARC Fund The AFLC Foundation Capital Improvement Fund The AFLC Foundation Christian Education Fund The AFLC Foundation Missions Fund The AFLC Foundation Unrestricted Fund In addition to the above funds, The Enoch & Madeline Thorsgard Endowment Fund for Missions distributes 5% annually divided equally between AFLC Home and World Missions. The final fund under the Foundation Board is the AFLC Foundation Development Fund which is an endowment created with the goal of one day funding the AFLC Development Department. It is continuing to slowly grow and will hopefully, one day, meet this goal. Every one of these funds can receive gifts from individuals, churches and other entities. However, these gifts must be designated to a specific fund or the gift will be placed in the AFLC Foundation Unrestricted Fund. To designate a gift, simply write, “AFLC Foundation [name of fund] Fund.” Every gift will increase our ability to financially assist our AFLC ministries for years to come. The Foundation Board members are appointed by their respective corporations. The current board members are: Coordinating Committee: Rev. Tim Johnson & Mr. Ron Strand Missions: Dr. Lyle Mattson & Rev. Wayne Hjermstad Schools: Rev. Jim Johnson & Another to be added in June ARC: Dr. Steven Johnson & Mr. Thomas Asfeldt
Respectfully Submitted, Rev. Tim Johnson
25 DEPARTMENT OF INSTITUTIONAL CHAPLAINCY To the Fifty-Eighth Annual Conference of the Association of Free Lutheran Congregations meeting August 10-12, 2020 at the Association Retreat Center, Osceola WI.
Greetings from the AFLC Division For Institutional Chaplaincy. This year’s Conference Theme “Will He Find Faith” (Luke 18:8), Jesus asks a good question. With the current coronavirus pandemic , a world so corrupt and full of injustice, Jesus is asking when He returns for His second coming “will He find faith on the earth?” is a certain challenge for Chaplains and others who serve in a pluralistic & non-Christian arena. We can assure those whom we serve, that the love of Christ and justice will prevail. Jesus tells His disciples through the parable of the persistent woman that with faith and hope in Jesus, “they should always pray and not give up” (Luke 18:1) This past fall, the 2019 AFLC Chaplain’s Division held its 21st Annual Chaplain’s Seminar at the Association Retreat Center in Osceola, Wisconsin. Dr. Mark Peterson taught “Care Team Training.” The sessions were a hybrid of CISM and Stephen Ministry. The focus was to train lay people to assist clergy in visiting shut-ins and others in need. Approximately 30 pastors and laity attended this training. We would like to encourage other men and women in the AFLC to attend the Chaplains Annual conference. This conference is open to all, not just to those who are serving in Chaplain capacities. In November of 2019, we endorsed Dr. Patrick Charles as Chaplain for his work at Methodist Hospital, Pleasanton, Texas. Pastor Charles is the vacancy pastor for Good Shepherd Lutheran Church in that community. He is excited about bringing “hope to the hopeless, peace to the peace-less, hope to those who are bruised, help the grieving souls, and help comfort the sick and carrying out Christ love to a lost and dying world.” I would like to recognize Chaplain Kerwin Sletto for 37 years of faithful ministry as pastor and chaplain for our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. He served 22 years (1993-2015) as the Director of AFLC Division For Institutional Chaplaincy. Kerwin retired from Altru Health Care, Grand Forks, ND, on May 1, 2020. The Division For Institutional Chaplaincy will continue the work in our Lord’s Kingdom promoting the Christian faith. We are looking forward to working with the Department of Police & Fire Chaplains at the 22nd Annual Chaplains Conference, at the ARC, October 26-28, 2020.
The Department of Institutional Chaplaincy would like to thank the AFLC
26 for its continued support.
In His Service, Chaplain Marlin Harris AFLC Director of Institutional Chaplaincy
AFLC INSTITUTIONAL CHAPLAINS: The following are chaplains within our department:
Chaplain Alan Bedard, Secretary, AFLC Institutional Chaplains, Wyoming, MN Chaplain Dr. Patrick Charles, Methodist Hospital, Pleasanton TX Chaplain Mark Benz, Retired & part time VA, Denver, CO Chaplain Dean Franz, Retired, Maple Grove, MN Chaplain Marlin Harris, Director of Institutional Chaplains, Mora, MN Chaplain Dave Hinrichs, Volunteer Good Samaritan Nursing Home, Park River, ND Chaplain Jerry Nelson, President AFLC Institutional Chaplains, LaCrosse, WI Chaplain Brian Pearson, full time hospice, Ruskin, FL Chaplain Michael Peterson, full time hospice, Alexandria, MN Chaplain John Rieth, Retired & flex time Altru Hospital, Grand Forks, ND Chaplain Tim Skramstad, Retired, Eagan, MN Chaplain Kerwin Sletto, Retired, Grand Forks, ND Chaplain Ron Staudinger, Vice President, AFLC Institutional Chaplains, Tamarack, MN
27 AFLC DEPARTMENT OF POLICE/FIRE CHAPLAINS
To the 58th Annual Conference of the Association of Free Lutheran Congregations, meeting August 10-12, 2020 at Association Retreat Center in Osceola, WI.
Every day Law Enforcement Officers put on their uniforms and go out to protect and serve the community. As they serve and provide protection for the community, they will encounter many stress-filled/stress-inducing situations: domestic disputes, suicides, traffic accidents, etc.
Likewise, every day, when 911 calls come in requesting the assistance of Firemen or 1st Responders, there are men and women in our communities who drop what they are doing in order to meet the immediate needs of members of their community. It may be a structure fire. It may be an auto accident. It may be to search for a lost child. It may be to offer medical assistance and provide transportation to a medical facility for a critically ill, or injured person. Like law Enforcement Officers, these men and women respond to stress- filled/stress-inducing situations.
The role of a Police/Fire Chaplain is 2-fold. On the scene where a domestic dispute is being investigated, a death is being investigated, or someone has been critically injured the presence of a Chaplain on the scene often brings a sense of calmness to an otherwise chaotic situation. The other primary role of a Chaplain is to be a resource for the Law enforcement Officers, Firefighters, and Emergency Medical Responders in dealing with the stress that can accumulate from frequently having to work in these stress-filled/stress- inducing environments.
Personally, I consider it a privilege from the Lord to have been able to offer the ministry of compassion in the role I had for 5 years as a Chaplain with the Janesville, WI Police department, and as I have now transitioned to a role as Chaplain with the Newark, IL Fire Department.
The Department of Police/Fire Chaplaincy in the AFLC exists to provide encouragement and resources for Pastors in our Church Fellowship who are willing to make themselves available in their local communities to offer support to the men and women who serve as Law enforcement Officers, Firefighters, and Emergency Medical Responders.
For more information on Police/Fire Chaplaincy in our AFLC, please feel free to contact me. I would love to visit with you about how you can serve your community. To keep up on news about our ministry resources check out our Facebook page: AFLC Police and Fire Chaplains.
Currently I am aware of the following men in our AFLC fellowship who are serving as Police/Fire Chaplains: John Amundson, Matthew Ballman, Jon Benson, Dan Giles, Marlin Harris, Henry Mohagen, Randy Nelson, Aaron Olson, Steve Snipstead , Matt Steendahl, and Jonathan Unverzagt.
Respectfully Submitted, Rev. Jon Benson Director of AFLC Police/Fire Chaplains 28 ANNUAL MILITARY CHAPLAINS REPORT To the fifty-eighth annual conference of the Association of Free Lutheran Congregations assembled at the Association Retreat Center near Osceola, Wisconsin, August 10-12, 2020.
“Do not be afraid or discouraged because of this vast army, for the battle is not yours but God’s. (2 Chronicles 20:15b) What enemies are you battling with today? Right now the world is being confronted with an unseen enemy in the form of the COVID-19 virus. As this battle and others rage on throughout our land and lives it is important for us to hear the truth that “the battle is not ours but God’s.” I am honored and humbled to serve as the new Director of Military Chaplains for the AFLC! Our previous Director, Pastor Mark Antal, has faithfully completed his “tour of duty” in this position and on behalf of the AFLC people we say to you Mark, “well done good and faithful servant!” We thank God for your caring friendship, committed leadership and continual love for Jesus Christ and His church!
What does God call military chaplains to do? Military chaplains are today’s prophets who speak God’s words of truth, counsel and courage to the men and women our country has entrusted into their care. Military chaplains are faithful spiritual shepherds to both young recruits and seasoned leaders. They are a moral compass pointing their flock to God’s Word and to the Savior, Jesus Christ. Military chaplains are visible reminders of The Holy One and they remind their troops that many of challenges they face each day are spiritual battles that only God Himself can win for them. Currently we have one AFLC pastor actively serving as a military chaplain:
Chaplain (Colonel) John Eidsmoe continues to serve as a Chaplain with the Mississippi State Guard, and much of their recent training is preparation for massive social disruption in the event of seismic activity along the San Madrid fault line in the lower Mississippi delta area. He was awarded the Achievement Medal for presenting two continuing education seminars, one for the chaplains and one for the judge advocates (lawyers) at the State Guard Association of the United States (SGAUS) National Convention. He is also preparing a Chaplains’ Manual for the Chaplain Corps. As a Senior Counsel for the Foundation for Moral Law, in the past year Colonel Eidsmoe has presented twelve amicus briefs to the U.S. Supreme court and lower courts defending religious liberty, the sanctity of life, the traditional family, and limited constitutional government. Although in the past three years there have been fewer threats against the religious liberty of Christian chaplains than in the past, he believes we must remain vigilant and guard against such encroachments in the future, especially with issues 29 such as the freedom to pray in the Name of Jesus and preach and counsel Christian doctrine and to proclaim the Biblical truth about marriage and human sexuality. He pastors two rural Alabama churches and has shepherded them through the coronavirus crisis with drive-in worship services. He also teaches Christian Apologetics by distance learning for the Institute of Lutheran Theology and for Chafer Theological Seminary and teaches Constitutional Law, Professional Responsibility, and Criminal Procedure for the Oak Brook College of Law & Government Policy. While the number of evangelical chaplains in the military seems to be rising, Colonel Eidsmoe is deeply concerned that the number of AFLC military chaplains is declining. He hopes AFLC pastors and seminarians will recognize the opportunities and challenges of military chaplaincy, whether active duty, reserve, or guard, and he urges AFLC churches to recognize the many ways military chaplaincy can enhance and enrich their pastors. Let us continue to uphold Chaplain Eidsmoe and his wife Marlene in prayer as military service often means serving away from home and family. Let us also pray daily for God’s protection, provision and peace upon all the men and women of the AFLC who are serving in the Armed Forces today and for their families.
Finally, will you commit to praying for God’s call upon our young men and our current seminary students and pastors, for some of them to serve as military chaplains? The need is urgent, the sacrifices are real and the rewards are great! Thank you again to Pastor Mark Antal for his many years of dedicated service to the AFLC as a Pastor, Army Chaplain and as our Director of Military Chaplains! Thank you also to his wife Ruth and their children for their necessary support and sacrifices as Mark faithfully served in these varied spiritual roles within our AFLC and the United States Army! God’s richest blessings to you Mark and Ruth as you begin a new chapter in your lives! Respectfully submitted, Rev. Craig Benson Director of Military Chaplains
30 ASSOCIATION RETREAT CENTER (ARC)
Introduction: To the fifty-Eighth Annual Conference of Association Free Lutheran Congregations assembled at The Association Retreat Center in Osceola Wisconsin. This annual conference marks my third complete year as the Executive Director at the Association Retreat Center (ARC) in Osceola Wisconsin. The Lord has deeply blessed the ARC this year again as we have sought His face, prayerfully, standing on our knees knowing that it is He who guides our steps.
Focusing on Jesus: This year’s theme at the ARC is Focusing on Jesus taken from 2 Corinthians 4:18. We are focusing this year and always not on what we can see, but on what is Eternal. We believe here at the ARC that we are a mission field, that people come to our doors and we are able to engage with them for what can be a moment in time but that moment can last for a lifetime. We believe that through opening our doors we can have eternal impact on the lives that we engage with as they “Come Away and Rest Awhile”.
Celebration of 40 Years of Wonder: We celebrated our 40th Anniversary of the Wonders that the Lord has done at the ARC during this summer’s ARC Family Camp. We were blessed to have over 400 people in attendance at camp this year. We had a week full of celebration with a culminating event on Wednesday night. Pastor Brandt spoke the word of God to us and challenged us to put feet to our prayers by being Doers of our faith. The Wednesday night service was a catered banquet in the gymnasium with over 275 in attendance where we honored the directors of the ARC who had served in Faithfulness to the Lord and supported the mission and vision of the ARC. During this time we raised a capital campaign where 10% went to a tithe to the ARCA in Brazil for their work on the mission field, 50% went to capital improvements and the remaining 40% went to debt reduction. By God’s grace and the moving in people’s hearts the amount raised during this campaign was over $46,000.00. Praise be to God who is still a God of wonders. We want to truly thank those who helped make this event possible.
Reflection: The 2019 year for the ARC has been a year of focusing on Jesus. I have closed out my third complete year as the Executive Director and have stepped into the beginning of my fourth year and have continued to work on the development of the ARC. As I write this report I am reminded of my son who just a week ago had found himself stuck atop a treehouse and was too scared to come down. He had found his way up there just fine but the getting down part was all too scary. I was called to the scene and gently talked to him and told him I was right there. I reminded him my hand was close and all he had to do was focus on me. I told him I knew it was scary and he might not be able to see me fully but I was there to help him. After an hour (and very cold weather) he did head my voice and trust and find his way to my arms. This is my reflection of the ARC from the 2019-2020 year. We have been following the voice of our Savior. Even though the road may have been hard at times. While we may not have been able to see His face and the weather may 31 have been cold and we may have been frightful. GOD has been faithful. God has given us the foresight to do just what we should have when we needed to, whether that be with development projects, fiscal responsibility or mentoring and missionary opportunities. This has been a year of focusing on Him for our strength, our goals, our needs and our next moves. God has taught me to trust even when it feels like I am stranded at times atop a rooftop all the while he is just six inches from me with his hands stretched out talking to me all the while.
ARC-IT Program: We were blessed with the launch of the intern team staffed initially from the Bible College of Minneapolis. This has served as a tremendous blessing to our staff. They have learned trades, work ethic, community, deepened their walk with Christ, and been able to pay their debts, save up money and continue schooling while working here at the ARC. We have been blessed by this program and partnership. This internship has branched out to include other post-high school students who are looking for similar programs with hearts for the ARC and who are missional minded. What a blessing this has become and how the doors are opening for us to continue to be missionaries here at our own front door. We look forward to continue this partnership in the coming summer as I at the time of writing this report already have a number of applications and expect to have a full program up and running for the summer season.
Financial: Over the 2019 – 2020 year we experienced blessings of $230k in charitable giving. We were blessed to receive generous donations of the following: • New cookware for house lodging • Athletic equipment • AV and sound equipment • Monies for building expansion • New Park Benches • RV pads • Hotel Upgrades: Luggage Racks, Fridges in Each Room, New Folding Chairs, & Mattress Cover
The debt has been reduced to $1.268 Million dollars. The Executive Director along with the ARC Board has worked to acquire no additional debt over the 2019 fiscal year and has worked to continue to reduce monthly expenses and is seeking God’s face and praying for continued avenues to reduce the debt. As hearts are opened and gifts continue these works to support the capital improvements at the ARC while camps are then able to fulfil the fiscal needs of the ARC including but not limited to the debt reduction of the ARC.
Prayer: We would ask that you keep the ARC and the staff in your prayers though-out the year as we minister to those who come to the ARC to take time away with Jesus.
ARC Board: Dr. Steven Johnson – Chairman Mr. Roger Benson – Vice President 32 Mr. Kevin O’Neil – Secretary Pastor Richard Carr – Member Mr. Chad Rischel - Member
Full Time Staff: Kirk Rautio - Executive Director Valerie Anderson - ARC Programming Coordinator Mary Pollestad – Business Administrator Pastor Mike Fisk - Marketing and IT Dave Anderson - Food Service Manager Allison Groleske – ARC IT Intern
Part Time Staff: Doug Paulson - Maintenance Kevin Rader - Maintenance Gene Vukonich - Maintenance Maria Hobbs - Housekeeping Brittany Stewart - Housekeeping / Foodservice Austin Hatzenbeler - Supportive Services Annie Anderson - Food Service Mary Hobbs - Housekeeping Stan Christenson - Maintenance Allean Christenson - Canteen Mary Anderson - Canteen / Flowers Jerry Anderson - Maintenance Irene Bantz - Food Service Bob Bantz - Lawn Beautification Specialist Dennis Hougdahl - Lawn Beautification Specialist
Thanksgiving: I want to personally thank each of you for praying for the ARC. Thank you for praying for the mission of the ARC, for the people who come through our doors and for us as we serve them. Thank you for praying for the financial needs of the ARC and how God would lead you to support that through prayer.
I want to personally thank the Corporation and Board members for their support, prayers and guidance that I have felt and received over this year. My family and I covet your continued prayers for us and the ARC. I want to thank the ARC staff for their talents, hard work and service to the ARC’s mission and vision. I want to thank each and every volunteer who have taken time to give of themselves to support the ARC, it is truly a gift that the Lord gives to us through you and we are eternally grateful.
Respectfully Submitted in Jesus,
Kirk M. Rautio Executive Director Association Retreat Center
33 ASSOCIATION RETREAT CENTER, INC. BUDGET For the Year Ended November 31, 2019 and 2020 Budget
Actual Budget Budget Budget Year Ending Year Ending Over (Under) Year Ending 11/30/19 Percent 12/31/19 Percent 12/31/18 12/31/20 Percent
Revenues Retreats and camps income $ 634,861 70.4% $ 700,000 75.1% $ (65,139) $ 650,000 69.1% Canteen 13,978 1.5% 10,000 1.1% 3,978 15,000 1.6% Contributions 229,371 25.4% 180,000 19.3% 49,371 100,000 10.6% Designated Contributions 150,000 16.0% Debt forgiveness 20,000 2.2% 30,000 3.2% (10,000) 20,000 2.1% Miscellaneous 3,827 0.4% 12,000 1.3% (8,173) 5,000 0.5% Total Revenues 902,037 100.0% 932,000 100.0% (29,963) 940,000 100.0%
Expenses Advertising and Marketing 14,583 1.6% 10,000 1.1% 4,583 15,000 1.6% Retreat expenses 17,480 1.9% 25,000 2.7% (7,520) 18,000 1.9% Automobile Expense 11,512 1.3% 12,000 1.3% (488) 12,000 1.3% Canteen 9,084 1.0% 5,000 0.5% 4,084 10,000 1.1% Contract labor (8,785) -1.0% - 0.0% (8,785) (8,000) -0.9% Food 92,128 10.2% 120,000 12.9% (27,872) 125,000 13.3% Insurance 56,967 6.3% 60,000 6.4% (3,033) 60,000 6.4% Interest expense 45,629 5.1% 50,000 5.4% (4,371) 45,000 4.8% Licenses and Permits 3,555 0.4% 2,000 0.2% 1,555 4,000 0.4% Miscellaneous 4,104 0.5% 4,000 0.4% 104 5,000 0.5% Payroll 285,727 31.7% 400,000 42.9% (114,273) 350,000 37.2% Payroll health insurance 3,944 0.4% 6,000 0.6% (2,056) 4,000 0.4% Payroll taxes 19,830 2.2% 27,000 2.9% (7,170) 24,000 2.6% Pension/other 4,950 0.5% 5,000 0.5% (50) 5,000 0.5% Postage and office supplies 9,956 1.1% 1,500 0.2% 8,456 10,000 1.1% Professional fees 6,387 0.7% 6,000 0.6% 387 6,500 0.7% Repairs and maintenance 36,279 4.0% 30,000 3.2% 6,279 40,000 4.3% Supplies 17,069 1.9% 30,000 3.2% (12,931) 20,000 2.1% Taxes - Other 1,288 0.1% 1,500 0.2% (212) 1,500 0.2% Telephone 11,984 1.3% 9,000 1.0% 2,984 12,000 1.3% Travel & entertainment 1,748 0.2% 1,000 0.1% 748 3,000 0.3% Utilities 109,184 12.1% 100,000 10.7% 9,184 110,000 11.7% Total Expenses Excluding Depreciation 754,603 83.7% 905,000 97.1% (150,397) 872,000 92.8% 0.0% CHANGE IN NET ASSETS FROM OPERATIONS $ 147,434 16.3% $ 27,000 2.9% $ 120,434 $ 68,000 7.2% 34 AFLC BUSINESS MANAGERS REPORT To the 58th Annual Conference meeting August 10th – 12th at the Association Retreat Center in Osceola, Wisconsin: I have been in my position as Director of Business Management for a little over one year now. I have been greatly encouraged by how the Lord has been working this past year, and greatly encouraged by my fellow brothers and sisters in Christ on this AFLC and Free Lutheran Schools campus. The biggest blessing of this position is getting to see the Lord’s provision and work throughout all the ministries of the AFLC. In the next pages, you will find financial statements for 2019 for the following ministries: General Fund, General Fund Investments, Lutheran Ambassador, Benefits Fund, Youth Ministries, Parish Education, Evangelism, Home Missions, FLAPS, Builders Fellowship, and World Missions. The Balance Sheets show the assets, liabilities (what is due/what is owed to others), and equity for each ministry. The Income Statements show the income and the expenses (disbursements) for 2019. The Income Statements will show if a ministry ended the year with a Net Income (they received more than they spent) or a Net Loss (they spent more than they received). I want to thank my Bookkeeping Assistant, Deb Nelson, for her wonderful and hard work this past year. And a special thanks to Liz McCarlson, who also assists in the Business office, for her hard work. I’m extremely grateful for having them both, especially for helping out during my maternity leave this past Winter. We welcomed Kylie Faith to our family in December, and I was on maternity leave until early February. I’m very thankful for my work family who assisted in different ways during my leave and their patience when I returned. I also cannot forget to thank my husband Aaron, for his support and encouragement, and our girls, Grace & Kylie, who bring so much joy to our lives. As I write this report, our county is in the midst of the Covid-19 pandemic. Throughout this pandemic, I have seen a spirit of fear, uncertainty, and anxiety. But we serve a God who is greater than all these things and is Lord of all. I am so thankful that I serve a Savior who cares for me, preserves me, upholds me, and has given me salvation through Him! The verse that I think of often during this time is John 16:33 when Jesus is addressing His disciples: “I have said these things to you, that in me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation. But take heart; I have overcome the world.” Praise God that He has overcome death, sin, and sickness for us! I pray that you will remember to place your trust in the Lord, for our hope is in Him!
Respectfully Submitted, Katie Johnson 35 AFLC Financials General Fund Balance Sheet Twelve Months Ending December 31, 2019
2019 2018 ASSETS CURRENT ASSETS CASH IN CHECKING ($20,856.46) $207,390.00 CASH DESIGNATED TO SPECIAL PROJECTS 0.00 12,620.65 CASH IN SAVINGS 12,271.37 6,055.01 HYMNAL SAVINGS 57,302.05 52,474.05 TOTAL CASH 48,716.96 278,539.71
RECEIVABLES & INVENTORY ACCOUNTS RECEIVABLE - SCHOOLS 57,277.81 44,344.54 ACCOUNTS RECEIVABLE - MISSIONS 26,172.48 46,586.34 ACCOUNTS RECEIVABLE - ARC 58.90 58.90 TOTAL RECEIVABLES 83,509.19 90,989.78
HYMNAL INVENTORY 16,931.12 20,233.30 TOTAL CURRENT ASSETS 149,157.27 389,762.79
FIXED ASSETS HEADQUARTERS LAND DEVELOPMENT 698,465.61 698,465.61 ADMINISTRATION BUILDING 824,414.22 824,414.22 PRESIDENT'S HOUSE 293,814.00 293,814.00 FURNITURE AND EQUIPMENT 122,345.66 146,459.03 PRIOR DEPRECIATION TAKEN (673,473.33) (677,433.66) TOTAL FIXED ASSETS 1,265,566.16 1,285,719.20
TOTAL ASSETS 1,414,723.43 1,675,481.99
LIABILITIES & EQUITY
LIABILITIES CURRENT LIABILITIES ACCOUNTS PAYABLE - SCHOOLS 22,386.21 52,832.06 ACCOUNTS PAYABLE - MISSIONS 63,010.41 243,903.90 TOTAL CURRENT LIABILITIES 85,396.62 296,735.96
LONG TERM LIABILITIES CONTRACT FOR DEED - CHARLES PROP. 0.00 219,907.29 TOTAL LONG TERM LIABILITIES 0.00 219,907.29
TOTAL LIABILITIES 85,396.62 516,643.25
EQUITY GENERAL FUND EQUITY 1,158,838.74 1,236,696.95 NET INCOME OR (LOSS) 170,488.07 (77,858.21) TOTAL EQUITY 1,329,326.81 1,158,838.74
TOTAL LIABILITIES & EQUITY 1,414,723.43 1,675,481.99
36 General Fund Income Statement Twelve Months Ending December 31, 2019
2019 2018 GENERAL FUND BUDGETED RECEIPTS GIFTS - CONGREGATIONS 383,477.05 375,162.98 GIFTS - INDIVIDUALS 31,624.74 31,997.72 GIFTS - PRESIDENT'S ASSISTANT 2,852.55 2,434.27 GIFTS - REIMB. PRES TRAVEL/SPEAK 3,160.88 3,331.00 TOTAL GENERAL GIVING 421,115.22 412,925.97 SUBSIDY TO GF FOR EXPENSES 43,962.65 44,809.18 OVERHEAD EXPENSE 175,138.92 179,623.68 DEVELOPMENT OVERHEAD 90,311.55 94,055.52 OVERHEAD FROM OTHER FUNDS 309,413.12 318,488.38 DIRECTORY/HANDBOOK 2,220.00 2,807.50 CONFERENCE OFFERINGS 719.16 784.86 REGISTRATION - CONFERENCE 9,591.30 12,970.18 GRANTS - CHAPLAINS 0.00 2,000.00 OIL ROYALTIES 601.76 714.51 RENTAL INCOME 0.00 17,453.00 OTHER REVENUE & SUPPORT 13,132.22 36,730.05 TOTAL RECEIPTS 743,660.56 768,144.40
DISBURSEMENTS SALARY - ASST TO PRESIDENT 72,828.00 71,400.00 SALARY - PRESIDENT 81,729.84 81,729.84 SALARY - SECRETARY AFLC CONF. 1,250.00 1,250.00 SALARY - DIR. OF DEV. 95,630.88 93,755.76 SALARY - SECRETARY 48,543.20 57,109.68 SALARY - RECEPTIONIST 13,635.87 12,873.35 SALARY - BUSINESS/IT MGR 62,426.90 88,434.00 SALARY - ASSISTANT BOOKKEEPER 45,362.90 44,267.28 SALARY - IT MANAGER 35,120.78 33,855.83 401K CONTRIBUTIONS 20,774.59 22,564.06 LIFE INSURANCE 1,350.87 1,497.76 LTD INSURANCE 1,003.97 1,091.30 TAXES - PAYROLL 20,827.90 24,061.02 PAYROLL AND BENEFITS 500,485.70 533,889.88 DIRECTORY/HANDBOOK 841.50 930.00 PROMOTIONAL MATERIALS 2,598.65 3,262.06 HYMNAL COMMITTEE EXPENSES 3,302.18 7,838.48 CONFERENCE EXPENSES 12,725.99 13,629.38 PASTORS CONFERENCE 600.00 700.00 LUTHERAN AMBASSADOR SUBSIDY 8,820.00 11,652.00 TRAVEL 50.30 0.00 TRAVEL - ASST TO PRESIDENT 9,222.20 8,045.26 TRAVEL - PRESIDENT 16,120.00 12,654.88 TRAVEL - BOARDS 20,166.53 15,478.04 TRAVEL- AFLC BOARDS 5,145.63 6,886.22 TRAVEL - DIRECTOR DEVELOPMENT 30,236.31 26,937.22 CHAPLAINCY 3,000.00 4,740.88 PROGRAM AND PROMOTIONAL 112,829.29 112,754.42 ACCOUNTING 2,790.40 2,800.84 AUDIT/REVIEW 9,500.00 10,500.00 LEGAL 1,411.17 0.00 INSURANCE 13,492.30 10,005.14 INTEREST 3,265.70 10,250.82 MISCELLANEOUS 3,566.65 3,147.59 MISCELLANEOUS - RENTAL PROPERTY 0.00 6,637.98 PASTORAL SCREENING 561.00 1,108.00 37 2019 2018 POSTAGE 17.71 4,229.35 SUPPLIES - OFFICE 415.69 122.59 OFFICE EQUIP - LEASES 5,128.24 1,259.57 SHARED OFFICE SUPPLIES 1,711.79 2,568.16 OFFICE EXPENSES - DEVELOPMENT 5,264.26 647.50 TAXES - REAL ESTATE 0.00 8,278.26 TELEPHONE 7,068.13 8,716.48 NEW EQUIPMENT 3,924.49 1,657.06 COMPUTER SUPPORT EXPENSES 39,395.35 51,405.43 GENERAL & ADMINISTRATIVE 97,512.88 123,334.77 CONTRACTED SERVICES-SCHOOLS 22,078.08 20,953.08 CONTRACTED SERVICES-RENTAL PROPERTY 0.00 7,414.80 REPAIR & MAINTENANCE 7,738.68 3,620.92 REPAIRS - RENTAL PROPERTY 0.00 571.81 CUSTODIAL SERVICES 6,184.93 9,059.23 UTILITIES 19,928.75 18,474.92 UTILITIES - PRESIDENTS HOUSE 2,409.74 2,352.76 UTILITIES - RENTAL PROPERTY (61.23) 4,792.91 REPAIRS AND BUILDING MAINTENANCE 58,278.95 67,240.43 TOTAL DISBURSEMENTS 769,106.82 837,219.50 BUDGETED NET INCOME OR (LOSS) (25,446.26) (69,075.10)
GENERAL FUND NON-BUDGETED RECEIPTS SALARY REIMB. - W.M.F. 27,641.30 27,226.27 IN & OUT ARC GIFTS RECEIPTS 9,434.90 10,551.29 IN & OUT RECEIPTS 4,000.00 4,367.84 GRANTS 1,000.00 0.00 SPECIAL PROJECTS 2,868.90 58,321.98 PROMOTIONAL INCOME 284.56 460.03 MISC. REIMB. - DOD 56,531.42 51,957.80 GIFTS - PRESIDENT'S HOUSE 0.00 36,858.02 HYMNAL SALES 4,650.00 7,748.00 MISCELLANEOUS RECEIPTS 1,362.69 343.97 GIFTS FROM GEN FUND INVESTMENTS 199,809.66 48,645.50 INTEREST INCOME-OTHER 216.36 52.30 PACCT GIFTS/FUNDING 11,000.00 0.00 TOTAL RECEIPTS 318,799.79 246,533.00
DISBURSEMENTS SALARY - W.M.F. SECRETARY 27,641.30 27,226.27 IN & OUT ARC GIFTS PAID 9,434.90 10,551.29 IN & OUT EXPENSES 4,000.00 4,367.84 SPECIAL PROJECT DISBURSEMENTS 57,781.42 53,482.80 BILLABLE TO THE ARC 0.00 (54.00) LOSS ON DISPOSAL OF ASSETS 0.00 114,433.00 DEPRECIATION EXPENSE 20,153.04 45,308.91 PACCT EXPENSES 3,854.80 0.00 TOTAL DISBURSEMENTS 122,865.46 255,316.11 NON-BUDGETED NET INCOME OR (LOSS) 195,934.33 (8,783.11)
COMBINED NET INCOME 170,488.07 (77,858.21)
38 General Fund Investments Balance Sheet Twelve Months Ending December 31, 2019
2019 2018
ASSETS TOTAL CHECKING/SAVINGS $ 389,714.96 $ 533,212.45 TOTAL ASSETS 389,714.96 533,212.45
LIABILITIES & EQUITY TOTAL LIABILITIES 0.00 0.00
EQUITY GENERAL FUND INVESTMENTS EQUITY 533,212.45 207,542.32 NET INCOME OR (LOSS) (143,497.49) 325,670.13 TOTAL EQUITY 389,714.96 533,212.45 TOTAL LIABILITIES & EQUITY 389,714.96 533,212.45
General Fund Investments Income Statement Twelve Months Ending December 31, 2019
2019 2018 RECEIPTS GIFTS - CONGREGATIONS 0.00 32.30 INTEREST INCOME - SAVINGS 1,039.35 488.09 LEGACIES 55,272.82 373,795.24 TOTAL RECEIPTS 56,312.17 374,315.63
DISBURSEMENTS GIFTS TO GENERAL FUND 199,809.66 48,645.50 TOTAL DISBURSEMENTS 199,809.66 48,645.50 NET INCOME OR (LOSS) (143,497.49) 325,670.13
39 Lutheran Ambassador Balance Sheet Twelve Months Ending December 31, 2019
2019 2018 ASSETS CHECKING ACCOUNT $7,236.92 $854.05 EOM RECIEVABLES - ARC SUBSIDY 0.00 158.00 EOM RECEIVABLES - MISSIONS 0.00 1,703.00 EOM RECEIVABLES - SCHOOLS 0.00 3,142.17 TOTAL ASSETS 7,236.92 5,857.22
LIABILITIES & EQUITY LIABILITIES ACCRUED AFLAC 0.24 0.12 TOTAL LIABILITIES 0.24 0.12 EQUITY LUTHERAN AMBASSADOR EQUITY 5,857.10 0.00 NET INCOME OR (LOSS) 1,379.58 5,857.10 TOTAL EQUITY 7,236.68 5,857.10 TOTAL LIABILITIES & EQUITY 7,236.92 5,857.22
Lutheran Ambassador Income Statement Twelve Months Ending December 31, 2019
2019 2018 RECEIPTS SUBSCRIPTION FEES $52,275.00 $51,619.24 SALES REVENUE 52,275.00 51,619.24 GIFTS - LUTHERAN AMBASSADOR 175.00 822.00 SUBSIDY FROM OTHER FUNDS 57,700.00 63,204.00 SALARY REIMBURSMENT 17,444.72 17,270.04 GIFTS & TRANFERS FROM OTHER DEPTS. 75,319.72 81,296.04 TOTAL RECEIPTS 127,594.72 132,915.28
EXPENSES LUTHERAN AMBASSADOR POSTAGE 9,652.38 9,542.06 PRINTING 22,651.44 24,954.72 PRINTING & MAILING EXPENSE 32,303.82 34,496.78 SALARY - EDITOR 11,795.28 11,564.04 SALARY - SECRETARY 1,257.36 1,459.61 SALARY - ASSISTANT EDITOR 58,149.12 57,008.88 TAXES - PAYROLL 4,554.05 4,517.15 401K CONTRIBUTIONS 3,533.16 3,464.64 LIFE INSURANCE 234.00 234.00 LTD INSURANCE 152.40 149.40 PAYROLL & BENEFITS 79,675.37 78,397.72 INSURANCE 198.61 44.99 MISCELLANEOUS 129.65 100.34 POSTAGE 840.63 674.92 SUBSIDY TO G.F. FOR EXPENSES 4,535.04 5,162.16 SUPPLIES 916.28 1,041.34 TELEPHONE 494.85 492.05 TRAVEL 1,523.85 1,025.84 OVERHEAD EXPENSE 5,177.04 5,198.04 NEW EQUIPMENT 0.00 0.00 COMPUTER SUPPORT EXPENSES 420.00 424.00 GENERAL & ADMINISTRATIVE 14,235.95 14,163.68 TOTAL DISBURSMENTS 126,215.14 127,058.18 NET INCOME OR (LOSS) 1,379.58 5,857.10 40 Benefits Fund Balance Sheet Twelve Months Ending, December 31, 2019
2019 2018 ASSETS CASH CASH - BENEFITS $18,776.38 $13,290.23 CASH - HIS FUND 104,539.48 102,131.85 TOTAL CASH 123,315.86 115,422.08 RECEIVABLES ACCOUNTS RECEIVABLE 672.48 675.00 TOTAL RECEIVABLES 672.48 675.00 TOTAL ASSETS 123,988.34 116,097.08
LIABILITIES & EQUITY LIABILITIES 401K CONTRIBUTIONS PAYABLE (186.55) (165.55) ACCRUED DISABILITY-CHURCHES 0.00 (28.38) ACCRUED LIFE INSURANCE-CHURCHES 0.00 (37.08) TOTAL CURRENT LIABILITIES (186.55) (231.01) TOTAL LIABILITIES (186.55) (231.01)
EQUITY BENEFITS FUND EQUITY 116,328.09 87,904.51 NET INCOME OR (LOSS) 7,846.80 28,423.58 TOTAL EQUITY 124,174.89 116,328.09 TOTAL LIABILITIES & EQUITY 123,988.34 116,097.08
Benefits Fund Income Statement Twelve Months Ending, December 31, 2019
2019 2018 RECEIPTS INTEREST INCOME - SAVINGS $545.32 $427.87 401K ADMIN FEE 3,900.00 3,801.00 HIS FUND GIFTS 15,980.31 26,180.68 ADMIN FEE - HRA/FSA/HSA 1,475.00 1,680.00 ADMIN FEE - LIFE & LTD INSURANCE 3,303.00 3,555.00 TOTAL RECEIPTS 25,203.63 35,644.55
DISBURSMENTS LEGAL 0 818.00 MISCELLANEOUS 167.53 0.75 TRAVEL- BENEFITS BOARD 14.00 135.90 HIS FUND DISBURSEMENTS 13,900.00 2,800.00 ADMINISTRATION FEES 3,275.30 3,466.32 TOTAL DISBURSMENTS 17,356.83 7,220.97 NET INCOME OR (LOSS) 7,846.80 28,423.58
41 Youth Ministries Balance Sheet Twelve Months Ending December 31, 2019 2019 2018 ASSETS CASH IN BANK-YOUTH BOARD $61,994.39 $65,898.89 ACCOUNTS RECEIVABLE - FLY ADMINISTRATION 0.00 8,000.00 TOTAL ASSETS 61,994.39 73,898.89
LIABILITIES 0.00 0.00 EQUITY YOUTH MINISTRIES EQUITY 73,898.89 47,568.41 NET INCOME OR (LOSS) (11,904.50) 26,330.48 TOTAL EQUITY 61,994.39 73,898.89 TOTAL LIABILITIES & EQUITY 61,994.39 73,898.89
Youth Ministries Income Statement Twelve Months Ending December 31, 2019 2019 2018 RECEIPTS GIFTS - CONGREGATIONS $92,182.43 $91,138.54 GIFTS - INDIVIDUALS 12,260.71 21,365.00 GIFTS - UNDESIGNATED 30,079.20 29,299.78 TEACHING INCOME 11,725.00 12,530.00 FLY CONVENTION INCOME 25,000.00 23,000.00 SPECIAL PROJECTS 11,675.00 16,300.00 CONFERENCE OFFERINGS 206.65 784.24 LEADERSHIP CONF. REG/OFFERINGS 0.00 38,850.00 YOUTH WORKERS RETREAT 11,124.37 5,781.00 GRANTS 1,000.00 2,000.00 IN & OUT RECEIPTS 0.00 32.99 TOTAL RECEIPTS 195,253.36 241,081.55
DISBURSEMENTS PROMOTIONAL EXPENSE 529.95 603.85 INSURANCE 325.96 91.48 LEADERSHIP CONF. EXPENSES 3,267.08 30,158.82 YOUTH WORKERS RETREAT 14,293.74 8,016.07 MISC 155.31 92.98 POSTAGE & MAILINGS 182.78 234.08 PRINTING & COPYING 260.00 0.00 SUBSIDY TO G.F. FOR EXPENSE 2,907.96 2,825.64 SUPPLIES - OFFICE 3,361.75 2,478.77 TAXES - PAYROLL 2,587.79 2,161.64 TELEPHONE 1,977.95 2,016.90 TRAVEL-YOUTH DIRECTORS 4,585.64 2,537.76 TRAVEL-BOARD 3,184.70 743.71 MEALS & NETWORKING-DIRECTOR 2,196.86 1,729.00 SPECIAL PROJECTS 8,567.53 14,966.65 OVERHEAD EXPENSES 15,576.96 16,038.96 SALARY - YOUTH WORKER 82,200.00 82,736.23 SALARY - SECRETARY 19,611.24 15,719.06 SALARY - TRAINING COORDINATOR 1,970.00 0.00 SALARY - NETWORKING COORDINATOR 860.00 0.00 FLY COORDINATOR 12,814.49 14,597.30 FLY CONVENTION EXPENSE 4,802.44 700.00 CONTINUING EDUCATION 9,992.62 8,309.05 LUTH AMB SUBSIDY 3,456.00 2,448.00 401K CONTRIBUTIONS 4,748.99 4,691.27 LIFE INSURANCE 263.40 324.86 LTD INSURANCE 204.36 226.99 TECHNOLOGY UPGRADES 1,507.36 0.00 COMPUTER SUPPORT SERVICES 765.00 302.00 TOTAL DISBURSEMENTS 207,157.86 214,751.07 NET INCOME OR (LOSS) (11,904.50) 26,330.48 42 Parish Education Balance Sheet Twelve Months Ending December 31, 2019
2019 2018
ASSETS CASH IN BANK $2,713.58 $29,568.74 CREDIT CARD PROCESSING ACCT. 7,601.93 9,928.95 TOTAL CASH 10,315.51 39,497.69
RECEIVABLES ACCOUNTS RECEIVABLE 2,166.33 1,913.96 BULLETINS RECEIVABLE 2,570.23 2,191.62 TOTAL RECEIVABLES 4,736.56 4,105.58
BOOK INVENTORY 282,755.79 287,477.07 TOTAL ASSETS 297,807.86 331,080.34
LIABILITIES REFUNDS PAYABLE 0.00 1.98 ACCRUED INVENTORY 2,716.36 4,402.30 SALES TAX PAYABLE 989.48 779.84 GIFT CERTIFICATES OUTSTANDING 186.31 161.31 TOTAL LIABILITIES 3,892.15 5,345.43
EQUITY PARISH EDUCATION EQUITY 325,734.91 334,675.26 NET INCOME OR (LOSS) (31,819.20) (8,940.35) TOTAL EQUITY 293,915.71 325,734.91
TOTAL LIABILITIES & EQUITY 297,807.86 331,080.34
Parish Education Income Statement Twelve Months Ending December 31, 2019
2019 2018 RECEIPTS GIFTS - CONGREGATIONS $119,901.29 $146,289.17 GIFTS - INDIVIDUALS 19,554.50 11,730.50 GIFTS - WMF 9,684.23 9,231.24 CONFERENCE OFFERINGS 227.32 784.24 INTEREST INCOME 0.00 0.00 BOOKNOOK SALES 14,355.93 8,278.86 SALES - MINNESOTA 8,559.06 6,562.88 SALES - MINNESOTA TAX EXEMPT 21,653.34 26,501.56 FREIGHT INCOME 5,404.20 5,700.55 SALES - INTERSTATE 46,968.81 48,597.21 BULLETIN RECEIPTS 39,669.98 39,879.13 LEGACIES 0.00 0.00 IN & OUT EXPENSES 0.00 0.00 GRANTS 5,233.81 6,926.09 TOTAL RECEIPTS 291,212.47 310,481.43
EXPENSES INSURANCE 361.74 109.16 MISCELLANEOUS 4,703.17 3,947.16 POSTAGE 9,407.15 9,476.19 43 2019 2018 COST OF BULLETINS 32,759.24 32,977.93 SUBSIDY TO G.F FOR EXPENSES 12,876.96 13,403.40 SALARY PACKAGE- DIRECTOR 78,650.00 78,900.00 SALARIES - OTHER 53,553.26 53,806.92 RESOURCE 47.20 215.22 TEACHING AIDS 7,850.44 8,915.48 OTHER BOOKS 29,064.52 22,767.79 CURRICULUM PRINTING 10,825.68 11,741.51 OTHER PUBLICATIONS PRINTING 5,203.88 3,955.67 SUPPLIES - OFFICE 1,509.21 1,477.31 TAXES - PAYROLL 10,114.52 9,676.31 TELEPHONE 2,955.35 2,402.31 TRAVEL 13,366.05 11,295.07 PRINTING EXPENSE 9,991.22 11,542.75 OVERHEAD EXPENSES 25,911.96 26,814.96 LUTHERAN AMBASSADOR SUBSIDY 3,542.04 3,468.00 401K CONTRIBUTIONS 6,246.59 6,174.76 LIFE INSURANCE 497.40 497.40 LTD INSURANCE 309.96 306.96 NEW EQUIPMENT 1,766.63 1,549.52 GRANTS PAID 1,000.00 4,000.00 CHANGE IN INVENTORY 517.50 0.00 COST OF GOODS SOLD 0.00 0.00 NET CHANGE IN INVENTORY 517.50 0.00 TOTAL EXPENSES 323,031.67 319,421.78 NET INCOME OR (LOSS) (31,819.20) (8,940.35)
44 Evangelism Balance Sheet Twelve Months Ending December 31, 2019
2019 2018 ASSETS CASH IN CHECKING 26,590.24 17,410.85 TOTAL ASSETS 26,590.24 17,410.85
LIABILITIES & EQUITY LIABILITIES 0.00 0.00
EQUITY EVANGELISM EQUITY 17,410.85 13,155.40 NET INCOME OR (LOSS) 9,179.39 4,255.45 TOTAL EQUITY 26,590.24 17,410.85 TOTAL LIABILITIES & EQUITY 26,590.24 17,410.85
Evangelism Income Statement Twelve Months Ending December 31, 2019
2019 2018 RECEIPTS EVANGELISM-SUPPORT/SERVICES $130,106.03 $135,765.44 EVANGELISM GIFTS-REKINDLE THE FIRE 8,122.00 1,000.00 TOTAL GENERAL GIVING 138,228.03 136,765.44 SALES OF MATERIAL 1,197.00 889.50 TRAVEL FUND 611.76 1,180.15 SPECIAL PROJECTS 1,898.00 2,000.00 GRANTS 5,233.81 6,926.09 OTHER REVENUE & SUPPORT 8,940.57 10,995.74 TOTAL RECEIPTS 147,168.60 147,761.18
DISBURSEMENTS SALARY - SECRETARY 7,523.86 9,195.18 SALARY/EXPENSES EVANGELIST 85,252.60 87,649.99 MINISTRY REIMBURSMENT, 11.29 2,150.45 410K CONTRIBUTIONS 4,547.27 4,796.77 LIFE INSURANCE 181.56 219.99 LTD INSURANCE 204.36 219.48 TAXES - PAYROLL 575.96 702.67 PAYROLL & BENEFITS 98,296.90 104,934.53 PROMOTIONAL 1,150.95 2,470.77 PURCHASE OF BOOKS, ETC. 662.71 2,108.34 RTF 4,045.20 5,562.78 DIRECTOR - TRAVEL 5,791.68 4,129.02 COE- TRAVEL 1,139.46 62.89 SPECIAL PROJECTS 1,827.70 0.00 PROGRAM & PROMOTIONAL 14,617.70 14,333.80 INSURANCE 222.87 60.08 MISCELLEANOUS 717.51 441.45 POSTAGE 484.98 337.40 BLDG SUBSIDY TO GF 2,907.96 2,825.64 SUPPLIES-OFFICE 741.11 653.01 TELEPHONE 1,584.26 1,024.86 OVERHEAD TO GF 15,576.96 16,038.96 LUTHERAN AMBASSADOR SUBSIDY 2,838.96 2,856.00 GENERAL & ADMINISTRATIVE 25,074.61 24,237.40 TOTAL DISBURSEMENTS 137,989.21 143,505.73 NET INCOME OR (LOSS) 9,179.39 4,255.45 45 Home Missions Balance Sheet Twelve Months Ending December 31, 2019
2019 2018 ASSETS CASH IN CHECKING $10,442.34 $32,161.03 RESTRICTED CASH 160,757.14 155,606.66 CREDIT CARD CLEARING ACCOUNT 8,358.01 27,407.53 SPLIT GIFTS RECEIVABLE 21,604.78 82,460.52 HOME MISSION SAVINGS 3,950.74 TOTAL ASSETS 201,162.27 301,586.48
LIABILITIES TOTAL LIABILITIES 0.00 0.00
EQUITY HOME MISSIONS EQUITY 301,586.48 115,771.35 NET INCOME OR (LOSS) (100,424.21) 185,815.13 TOTAL EQUITY 201,162.27 301,586.48 TOTAL LIABILITIES & EQUITY 201,162.27 301,586.48
Home Missions Balance Sheet Twelve Months Ending December 31, 2019
2019 2018 RECEIPTS GIFTS - CONGREGATIONS $295,239.62 $321,159.28 GIFTS - INDIVIDUALS 69,387.94 153,075.73 CONFERENCE OFFERINGS 688.15 804.24 MISCELLANEOUS RECEIPTS 10,147.49 171,337.84 INTEREST INCOME - SAVINGS 0.59 1.64 INTEREST INCOME - INVESTMENTS 0.00 2,119.61 REPLACEMENT OF CARS 3,500.00 1,000.00 GIFTS-REIMB. DIRECTOR TRAVEL 2,800.87 2,942.47 BARNABAS TEAM 27,363.03 0.00 H.M. PASTOR SUPPORT 25.00 0.00 LEGACIES 0.00 22,520.25 HOME MISSIONS RETREAT 13,758.53 4,938.61 IN & OUT RECEIPTS 750.00 5,948.00 HOPE - ENDERLIN, ND 1,200.00 325.00 GRANTS-HOME MISSIONS 22,437.53 28,031.41 COME JOIN US 0.00 200.00 TOTAL GENERAL RECEIPTS 447,298.75 714,404.08
RESURRECTION, ST. PAUL, MN 2,500.00 0.00 CUMBERLAND, WI 747.76 10,678.75 GRANTS - CHURCH PLANTING INCOME 3,655.00 0.00 BUTTE, MT GATHERING 6,390.85 31,827.33 GATEWAY GATHERING 12,600.00 28,119.00 WAIKIKI BEACH GATHERING 15,794.37 10,192.45 TOTAL NEW WORK RECEIPTS 41,687.98 80,817.53
PARISH BUILDERS 20,581.19 29,502.17 TOTAL PARISH BUILDERS RECEIPTS 20,581.19 29,502.17
46 2019 2018 ALASKA MISSION 50,989.73 28,874.35 AK - KAKN 14,562.45 11,275.00 ALASKA - KAKN EXPANSION 102,250.00 69,387.16 AK - PROJECTS 13,986.50 875.00 AK - PILOT 8,417.50 12,656.25 AK - MISSIONARY SUPPORT 7,425.00 2,225.00 ALASKA VBS 17,662.00 9,461.03 THE NET 3,710.00 6,416.77 TOTAL ALASKA RECEIPTS 219,003.18 141,170.56 TOTAL RECEIPTS 728,571.10 965,894.34
EXPENSES ACCOUNTING 0.00 0.00 LEGAL 4,694.50 1,118.50 PROMOTIONAL MATERIALS 7,620.09 5,903.60 INSURANCE & BONDS 18,183.18 19,120.93 VEHICLE/REGISTRATION 230.00 2,699.75 INTEREST 0.00 619.80 MISCELLANEOUS 14,376.65 6,476.85 POSTAGE 1,715.49 1,516.03 SUBSIDY TO G. F. FOR EXPENSES 8,031.00 7,716.00 REPAIR-VEHICLES 9,359.63 3,399.68 SUPPLIES - OFFICE 2,928.99 2,888.28 OFFICE FURNITURE STORAGE 2,181.27 0.00 TAXES - PAYROLL 5,428.30 4,263.16 TELEPHONE 2,677.69 2,646.00 TRAVEL - OTHER 7,591.52 2,099.40 TRAVEL - DIRECTOR 22,018.57 12,207.84 TRAVEL - ASST DIRECTOR COME JOIN US 0.00 703.43 TRAVEL - DIRECTOR FLIGHTS 0.00 0.00 TRAVEL-WOMEN'S MINISTRY FLIGHTS 0.00 1,140.89 TRAVEL - DIRECTOR COMMERCAIL FLIGHTS 2,978.96 4,872.72 TRAVEL - BOARDS 11,305.83 5,755.39 TRAVEL - GOSPEL TEAMS 27,386.72 0.00 OVERHEAD EXPENSES 43,202.00 44,941.92 OVERHEAD - AFLC DEVELOPMENT 22,556.64 23,513.88 SALARY - DIRECTOR 93,465.00 151,568.35 SALARY - OFFICE STAFF 46,746.49 55,532.05 CONTINUING EDUCATION 647.00 0.00 LUTHERAN AMBASSADOR SUBSIDY 7,261.00 6,336.00 401K CONTRIBUTIONS & FEES 6,888.63 5,884.29 LIFE INSURANCE 517.00 563.25 LTD INSURANCE 314.40 378.76 NEW EQUIPMENT 0.00 3,034.31 COMPUTER SUPPORT EXPENSES 0.00 596.67 H.M. PASTOR SUPPORT 844.94 0.00 SX 300 EXPENSES 864.89 7,803.40 BELLANCA EXPENSES 0.00 (2,131.25) HOME MISSIONS RETREAT 13,246.25 13,577.19 IN & OUT EXPENSES 750.00 5,948.20 HONORARIUMS 0.00 0.00 TOTAL GENERAL EXPENSES 386,012.63 402,695.27
REDEEMING LOVE-ST. JOSEPH, MN 0.00 1,383.65 LUTH CHURCH HOPE-LOVELAND, CO 20,000.04 23,200.04 GOOD SHEPHERD - MADISON, SD 20,000.04 24,999.96 THE SOURCE - MESA, AZ 21,900.00 0.00 HOPE - ENDERLIN, ND 15,999.99 4,505.60 WAIKIKI BEACH GATHERING 10,000.00 0.00
47 2019 2018 TOTAL SUBSIDY EXPENSES 87,900.07 54,089.25 CUMBERLAND, WI 5,670.36 2,284.48 BUTTE, MT GATHERING 763.79 15,091.53 SALARY -BUTTE, MT GATHERING 0.00 49,814.87 BENEFITS - BUTTE, MT 0.00 2,320.73 GATEWAY GATHERING 54,934.40 19,440.91 SALARY - GATEWAY GATHERING 0.00 39,425.82 BENEFITS - GATEWAY GATHERING 0.00 2,228.45 GRANTS - CHURCH PLANTING 22,014.00 0.00 RESURRECTION, ST. PAUL, MN 2,500.00 0.00 WAIKIKI BEACH GATHERING 21,394.96 6,842.40 TOTAL NEW WORKS DISBURSEMENTS 107,277.51 137,449.19
PARISH BUILDERS PROMOTION 989.18 0.00 PARISH BUILDERS 10,316.71 16,084.85 TOTAL PARISH BUILDERS DISBURSMENTS 11,305.89 16,084.85
ALASKA MISSION 16,267.93 3,717.42 AK - LEGAL 1,950.00 0.00 AK - MISSIONARY SUPPORT 8,279.78 0.00 KAKN RADIO 18,325.20 5,301.38 AK - SPECIAL PROJECTS 8,741.09 0.00 KAKN EXPANSION 29,831.11 39,055.02 AK-PILOT EXPENSES 0.00 0.00 SALARY - AK ASSISTANT DIRECTOR 24,120.00 0.00 KAKN SALARIES 49,935.40 48,481.20 PILOT SALARIES 49,935.40 48,481.20 AK - EMPLOYEE BENEFITS 3,189.60 3,109.68 AK - VBS 18,720.33 13,068.65 THE NET EXPENSES 7,617.56 835.00 AK - GARAGE CONSTRUCTION 0.00 2,137.77 AK - INSURANCE (414.19) 5,573.33 TOTAL ALASKA DISBURSMENTS 236,499.21 169,760.65
TOTAL EXPENSES 828,995.31 780,079.21
NET INCOME OR (LOSS) - OPERATING (26,613.95) 257,619.56 NET INCOME OF (LOSS) - NEW WORK (65,589.53) (56,631.66) NET INCOME OR (LOSS) - PARISH BUILDERS 9,275.30 13,417.32 NET INCOME OR (LOSS) - ALASKA (17,496.03) (28,590.09) TOTAL NET INCOME OR (LOSS) (100,424.21) 185,815.13
48 FLAPS Balance Sheet Twelve Months Ending December 31, 2019
2019 2018
ASSETS CASH IN BANK $10,640.35 ($2,750.27) CREDIT CARD PROCESSING ACCOUNT 1,692.39 1,655.05 SPLIT GIFTS RECEIVABLE 1,737.40 5,134.22 AIRPLANES 250,640.00 250,640.00 ACCUM DEPRECIATION - AIRPLANES (250,640.00) (250,640.00) TOTAL ASSETS 14,070.14 4,039.00
LIABILITIES 0.00 0.00
EQUITY FLAPS EQUITY 4,039.00 14,372.92 FLAPS NET INCOME OR (LOSS) 10,031.14 (10,333.92) TOTAL EQUITY 14,070.14 4,039.00
TOTAL LIABILITIES & EQUITY 14,070.14 4,039.00
FLAPS Income Statement Twelve Months Ending December 31, 2019
2019 2018 FLAPS RECEIPTS F.L.A.P.S. INCOME $76,253.18 $184,204.26 GRANTS 1,000.00 2,000.00 TOTAL RECEIPTS 77,253.18 186,204.26
DISBURSEMENTS F.L.A.P.S. EXPENSES 34,723.84 164,213.44 CESSNA 182 EXPENSES 24,934.02 8,555.00 CHEROKEE SIX 4,826.16 8,139.60 CHEROKEE 6 - OVERHAUL 0.00 519.00 CESSNA 175 EXPENSES 1,899.90 1,976.10 AK - TRACTOR 0.00 40.00 CHEROKEE 140 838.12 13,095.04 TOTAL DISBURSEMENTS 67,222.04 196,538.18 NET INCOME OR (LOSS) 10,031.14 (10,333.92)
49 Builders Fellowship Balance Sheet Twelve Months Ending, December 31, 2019
2019 2018
ASSETS CASH IN BANK $ 124,190.20 $ 167,078.03 CREDIT CARD PROCESSING ACCOUNT 166.60 102.00 SPLIT GIFTS RECEIVABLE 0.00 1,252.47 CIF - BUILDERS FELLOWSHIP CD 71,109.15 71,109.15 SAVINGS ACCOUNT 89,262.66 89,086.34 TOTAL ASSETS 284,728.61 328,627.99
LIABILITIES & EQUITY
TOTAL LIABILITIES 0.00 0.00
EQUITY BUILDERS FELLOWSHIP FUND EQUITY 328,627.99 326,080.35 NET INCOME OR (LOSS) (43,899.38) 2,547.64 TOTAL EQUITY 284,728.61 328,627.99 TOTAL LIABILITIES & EQUITY 284,728.61 328,627.99
Builders Fellowship Income Statement Twelve Months Ending, December 31, 2019
2019 2018 RECEIPTS GIFTS - CONGREGATIONS $902.58 $918.60 GIFTS - INDIVIDUALS 100.00 0.00 INTEREST INCOME - SAVINGS 1,284.84 1,709.04 BUILDER'S FELLOWSHIP 3,816.00 3,920.00 TOTAL RECEIPTS 6,103.42 6,547.64
DISBURSEMENTS MISCELLANEOUS 2.80 0.00 GRANTS PAID TO CHURCHES 50,000.00 0.00 WORK PROJECTS 0.00 4,000.00 TOTAL DISBURSEMENTS 50,002.80 4,000.00 NET INCOME OR (LOSS) (43,899.38) 2,547.64
50 World Missions Balance Sheet Twelve Months Ending December 31, 2019
2019 2018 ASSETS CURRENT ASSETS CASH IN BANK ($10,739.12) ($125,215.61) CREDIT CARD PROCESSING ACCOUNT 28,194.21 111,045.58 SPLIT GIFTS RECEIVABLE 39,668.23 155,056.69 DESGINATED SAVINGS - SCHEDULE 51 535,373.27 631,494.21 TOTAL CURRENT ASSETS 592,496.59 772,380.87
FIXED ASSETS CAPITAL INV.-MISSION HOME 27,148.07 27,148.07 CAPITAL INV.-BRAZIL HDQR/SCHOOLS 41,235.50 41,235.50 CAPITAL INV.-CAMPO GRANDE 15,000.00 15,000.00 TOTAL FIXED ASSETS 83,383.57 83,383.57 TOTAL ASSETS 675,880.16 855,764.44
LIABILITIES 0.00 0.00 TOTAL LIABITILIES 0.00 0.00
EQUITY WORLD MISSIONS EQUITY 855,764.44 861,803.30 BUDGET NET INCOME OR (LOSS) (64,352.01) (28,143.01) NON-BUDGET NET INCOME OR (LOSS) (23,537.33) 43,554.76 PERSONAL SUPPORT NET INCOME OR (LOSS) (91,994.94) (21,450.61) TOTAL EQUITY 675,880.16 855,764.44 TOTAL LIABILITIES & EQUITY 675,880.16 855,764.44
World Missions Designated Savings - Schedule 51 Twelve Months Ending December 31, 2019
2019 2018 DESIGNATED FUNDS BRAZIL PROJECTS 2,175.80 4,529.80 MISSIONARY SUPPORT 255,970.81 364,218.09 AFRICA PROJECTS 20,000.00 20,000.00 WORLD RELIEF SAVINGS 0.00 0.00 INDIA PROJECTS 3,674.34 528.26 INDIA-RELIEF/FOOD 184.58 3,228.52 INDIA CHILDREN 15,137.05 16,596.18 RAY J LEGACY-NEW MISSIONARIES * 5,807.74 5,807.74 LEGACIES 26,987.70 29,987.70 GRANTS * 18,292.68 32,842.63 A.I. - ADJUSTED EOY (5,283.11) (5,283.11) A.I. - SPECIAL PROJECTS 870.68 870.68 JOURNEY MISSIONS 4,730.46 7,916.44 INTERNATIONAL STUDENT SCHOLARSHIPS 28,000.00 28,000.00 INTEREST EARNED SAVINGS 6,733.45 5,725.85 CASH IN SAVINGS* 126,169.99 78,510.97 MISSION VAN FUND 20,843.35 32,833.54 WIRE TRANSFER SAVINGS 5,077.75 5,180.92 DESIGNATED FUNDS TOTAL 535,737.27 631,494.21
* Denotes Funds With Board Restrictions Already In Place Note: The current balance in the World Missions Project and Outreach Accounts as of 12/31/2019 is $92,678.13
51 World Missions Budgeted Income Statement Twelve Months Ending December 31, 2019
2019 2018 RECEIPTS CONGREGATIONS GIFTS $306,887.52 $264,099.88 INDIVIDUALS GIFTS 31,649.66 54,465.98 CONFERENCE OFFERINGS 688.15 934.24 MISCELLANEOUS RECEIPTS 546.67 0.00 ADMIN REIMB WM - PA 9,875.01 8,178.33 ADMIN REIMB WM - JL 6,434.63 7,073.84 ADMIN REIMB WM - JS 4,238.20 5,941.36 ADMIN REIMB WM - JA 9,143.85 8,060.07 ADMIN REIMB WM - BR 7,208.37 8,094.93 ADMIN REIMB WM - TS 7,735.34 8,695.23 ADMIN REIMB WM - NJ 8,990.92 8,484.46 ADMIN REIMB WM - JP 27.20 4,229.82 ADMIN REIMB WM - MB 3,466.56 3,886.24 ADMIN REIMB WM - MA 9,371.48 10,258.79 ADMIN. REIMB. WM-MR 1,193.41 1,869.22 ADMIN REIMB - JOURNEY MISSIONS 1,953.42 884.53 BRAZIL OUTREACH 490.00 610.00 MIRIAM INFANT HM-CHILDREN 55,857.97 29,785.49 MEXICO OUTREACH 125.00 100.00 INDIA OUTREACH 3,920.30 5,070.00 UGANDA OUTREACH 1,018.60 250.00 STEER SUPPORT 2,410.08 2,513.71 AMBASSADOR INSTITUTE 5,195.00 16,799.32 MISCELLANEOUS - AMB INST 0.00 39.62 JOURNEY MISSIONS 21,724.38 21,469.51 MISCELLANEOUS - JM 2,945.55 26,103.52 MISCELLANEOUS - WM 0.00 3,687.49 MISSION VAN INC FROM PS 17,277.36 23,572.16 TOTAL BUDGETED RECEIPTS 520,374.63 525,157.74
DISBURSEMENTS BRAZIL OUTREACH DISBURSEMENTS FIELD EXPENSES PROMOTION 120.73 0.00 TOTAL FIELD EXPENSES 120.73 0.00
NATIONAL CHURCH ASSISTANCE TRAVEL ASSISTANCE 3,600.00 3,600.00 TOTAL CHURCH ASSISTANCE 3,600.00 3,600.00
SEMINARY & BIBLE SCHOOL VEHICLE OPERATION 1,306.80 1,306.80 FOOD 5,346.00 5,346.00 UPKEEP/MAINTENANCE 1,458.00 1,458.00 OFFICE 2,364.60 2,364.60 TELEPHONE 653.00 653.00 UTILITIES 4,158.00 4,158.00 FACULTY 21,211.20 21,211.20 TEACHER/SECRETARY 2,932.20 2,932.20 COOK 1,682.16 1,682.16 COOK/CLEANING 837.00 837.00 SATELL SUBSIDY 0.00 0.00 TOTAL SEMINARY & BIBLE SCHOOL 41,948.96 41,948.96
52 2019 2018 MIRIAM INFANT HOME CHILDREN 26,400.00 26,400.00 STAFF 18,800.00 18,800.00 TOTAL MIRIAM INFANT HOME 45,200.00 45,200.00 TOTAL BRAZIL OUTREACH DISBURSEMENTS 90,748.96 90,748.96 BRAZIL OUTREACH NET INCOME (LOSS) (34,400.99) (60,353.47)
MEXICO OUTREACH DISBURSEMENTS EVANGELISM 3,500.04 3,500.04 TOTAL MEXICO DISBURSEMENTS 3,500.04 3,500.04 MEXICO OUTREACH NET INCOME (LOSS) (3,375.04) (3,400.04)
INDIA OUTREACH DISBURSEMENTS WORKER SUBSIDY 12,199.92 11,999.92 INDIA NATIONAL CHURCH SUBSIDY 3,600.00 3,600.00 INDIA UNREACHED PEOPLE GROUPS 2,160.00 2,160.00 TOTAL INDIA DISBURSEMENTS 17,959.92 17,759.92 INDIA OUTREACH NET INCOME (LOSS) (14,039.62) (12,689.92)
UGANDA OUTREACH DISBURSEMENTS FIELD EXPENSES 0.00 0.00 UGANDA OUTREACH NET INCOME (LOSS) 1,018.60 250.00
AMBASSADOR INSTITUTE DISBURSEMENTS DEPARTMENT EXPENSES SALARIES 0.00 13,448.40 401(k) RETIERMENT 0.00 672.44 LIFE INS 0.00 43.90 DEPT HEAD INT'L TRAVEL 5,804.53 3,671.56 PROMOTION 855.93 986.88 MISCELLANEOUS 0.00 0.00 POSTAGE 0.00 0.00 ON-SITE EXPENSES 225.55 175.50 INDIA 2,400.00 2,080.00 TOTAL DEPARTMENT EXPENSES 9,286.01 21,078.68
ADMINISTRATIVE EXPENSES AFLC OVERHEAD 864.04 8,988.36 AFLC DEVELOPMENT OH 451.13 4,937.88 AI ADMIN TOTAL 1,315.17 13,926.24 TOTAL ADMINISTRATIVE EXPENSES 10,601.18 35,004.92 AMBASSADOR INSTITUTE NET INCOME (LOSS) (5,406.18) (18,165.98)
JOURNEY MISSIONS DEPARTMENT EXPENSES SALARIES 57,098.55 55,705.86 PAYROLL TAX 3,843.93 4,272.61 401(k) RETIERMENT 2,840.64 2,771.52 LIFE INS 412.20 408.60 DEPT HEAD INT'L TRAVEL 10,793.82 10,213.43 DEPT HEAD TRAVEL 3,357.13 4,162.08 CONTINUING ED 289.79 0.00 PROMOTION 1,088.58 743.16 INSURANCE 0.00 0.00 MISCELLANEOUS 190.26 343.86 POSTAGE 0.00 0.00
53 2019 2018 OFFICE SUPPLIES 474.13 988.24 TELEPHONE 1,598.03 1,468.45 ON-SITE EXPENSES 49.26 494.72 NEW EQUIPMENT 84.32 228.84 TOTAL DEPARMENT EXPENSES 82,120.64 81,801.37
ADMINISTRATIVE EXPENSES BLDG USAGE 3,115.00 3,586.32 AFLC OVERHEAD 7,776.36 6,291.84 JM - DEVELOPMENT OVERHEAD 4,060.20 3,291.96 TOTAL ADMINISTRATIVE EXPENSES 14,951.56 13,170.12 TOTAL JOURNEY MISSIONS 97,072.20 94,971.49 JOURNEY MISSIONS NET INCOME (LOSS) (70,448.85) (46,513.93)
HOME OFFICE EXPENSES ADMINISTRATION EXPENSES BUILDING USAGE 8,031.00 7,498.68 AFLC OVERHEAD 34,561.60 29,661.72 AFLC DEVELOPMENT OVERHEAD 18,045.31 15,284.04 LUTHERAN AMBASSADOR SUBSIDY 11,395.00 14,100.00 TOTAL ADMINISTRATIVE EXPENSES 72,032.91 66,544.44
DEPARTMENT EXPENSES LEGAL 355.50 12.50 PROMOTION 2,271.55 1,806.97 VEHICLE OPER/MAINT 28,217.55 25,693.06 INSURANCE/BONDS 5,905.54 6,987.02 VEHICLE REGISTRATION 393.00 227.00 MISC. / CONTINGENCY 9,269.65 5,053.28 POSTAGE 3,400.70 2,961.16 REPAIR/MAINT 36.98 0.00 SUPPLIES / OFFICE 4,390.49 3,257.92 SUPPLIES / COMPUTER 602.29 0.00 TAXES / PAYROLL 4,677.77 4,621.81 TELEPHONE 2,504.39 2,240.72 EXPENSES / DEPUTATION 8,051.25 11,692.65 DIRECTOR TRAVEL - FOREIGN 1,098.56 2,379.69 EXPENSES / DIRECTOR 2,166.46 2,062.41 EXPENSES / COMMITTEE 7,475.04 6,067.23 DIRECTOR SALARY 128,682.24 81,504.23 MINISTRY REIMBURSMENT - DIRECTOR, 0.00 12,000.00 SALARY-WM OFFICE MANAGER 59,755.37 58,877.88 PART TIME STAFF 2,042.50 2,116.70 STEER 915.00 1,536.00 CONTINUING EDUCATION 560.00 0.00 401(k) RETIERMENT & FEES 9,798.48 8,272.20 LIFE INSURANCE-NEW 571.56 497.40 LTD INSURANCE 428.24 390.46 NEW EQUIPMENT 3,836.01 0.00 COMP. SUPP. SALARY/EXPENSE 283.07 266.67 MISSION HOME OPERATION 5,001.51 4,246.02 TOTAL DEPARTMENT EXPENSES 292,690.70 244,770.98 TOTAL HOME OFFICE DISBURSEMENTS 364,723.61 311,315.42 HOME OFFICE NET INCOME (LOSS) 62,420.80 112,730.33
54 World Missions Budgeted Income Statement Summary Twelve Months Ending December 31, 2019
SUMMARY BY MINISTRY 2019 2018
BRAZIL RECEIPTS 56,347.97 30,395.49 BRAZIL DISBURSEMENTS 90,869.69 90,748.96 NET INCOME (LOSS) (34,521.72) (60,353.47)
MEXICO RECEIPTS 125.00 100.00 MEXICO DISBURSEMENTS 3,500.04 3,500.04 NET INCOME (LOSS) (3,375.04) (3,400.04)
INDIA RECEIPTS 3,920.30 5,070.00 INDIA DISBURSEMENTS 17,959.92 17,759.92 NET INCOME (LOSS) (14,039.62) (12,689.92)
AMBASSADOR INSTITUTE RECEIPTS 5,195.00 16,838.94 AMBASSADOR INSTITUTE DISBURSEMENTS 10,601.18 35,004.92 NET INCOME (LOSS) (5,406.18) (18,165.98)
JOURNEY MISSIONS RECEIPTS 26,623.35 48,457.56 JOURNEY MISSIONS DISBURSEMENTS 97,072.20 94,971.49 NET INCOME (LOSS) (70,448.85) (46,513.93)
UGANDA RECEIPTS 1,018.60 250.00 UGANDA DISBURSEMENTS 0.00 0.00 NET INCOME (LOSS) 1,018.60 250.00
ALL OTHER INCOME 427,144.41 424,045.75 HOME OFFICE EXPENSES 364,723.61 311,315.42 NET INCOME (LOSS) 62,420.80 112,730.33
TOTAL BUDGETED RECEIPTS 520,374.63 525,157.74 TOTAL BUDGETED DISBURSEMENTS 584,726.64 553,300.75 TOTAL BUDGETED NET INCOME (LOSS) (64,352.01) (28,143.01)
World Missions Non-Budgeted Income Statement Twelve Months Ending December 31, 2019
2019 2018 NON BUDGETED RECEIPTS MISCELLANEOUS RECEIPTS LEGACIES $0.00 $22,520.25 INTEREST INCOME 4,262.33 2,674.75 IN & OUT 650.00 30.00 GRANTS - WM 28,200.57 30,229.85 WORLD RELIEF 3,744.84 4,929.74 WMPL 250.00 0.00 WORLD RELIEF - WM 374.50 492.98 WYCLIFFE 11,298.00 14,592.65 LUTHERAN BIBLE TRANSLATORS 29,134.66 27,358.05 DISTANT SHORES MEDIA 5,175.00 10,763.00 TOTAL MISCELLANEOUS RECEIPTS 83,089.90 113,591.27
AMBASSADOR INSTITUTE RECEIPTS 0.00 0.00
55 2019 2018 JOURNEY MISSIONS RECEIPTS JM - ISRAEL 12,035.61 0.00 JM - BRAZIL 7,650.00 44,069.25 JM - UGANDA 0.00 16,553.54 SHORT-TERM ASSISTANTS 39,168.47 17,806.49 JM - GRANTS 0.00 0.00 TOTAL JOURNEY MISSIONS RECEIPTS 58,854.08 78,429.28
BRAZIL PROJECTS RECEIPTS SPECIAL PROJECTS - BRAZIL 41,355.11 19,080.48 STUDENT WORK FUND 425.00 200.00 STUDENT SCHOLARSHIP 5,650.00 3,874.00 ARCA 11,881.53 18,060.00 CAPITAL INVESTMENTS - BRAZIL 13,246.00 0.00 TOTAL BRAZIL PROJECTS RECEIPTS 72,557.64 41,214.48
MEXICO PROJECTS RECEIPTS SPECIAL PROJECTS - MEXICO 4,217.66 8,591.41 TOTAL MEXICO PROJECTS RECEIPTS 4,217.66 8,591.41
INDIA PROJECTS RECEIPTS SPECIAL PROJECTS - INDIA 17,900.00 2,700.00 INDIA CHILDREN 9,840.87 7,043.81 RELIEF / FOOD 1,030.00 5,337.00 BIBLES/LITERATURE 1,821.08 1,362.00 TOTAL INDIA PROJECTS RECEIPTS 30,591.95 16,442.81
AFRICA PROJECTS RECEIPTS SPECIAL PROJECTS - AFRICA 848.21 20,330.00 TOTAL AFRICA PROJECTS RECEIPTS 848.21 20,330.00
ECUADOR PROJECTS - RECEIPTS 0.00 0.00
TOTAL NON-BUDGETED RECEIPTS 250,159.44 278,599.25
NON- BUDGETED DISBURSEMENTS MISCELLANEOUS DISBURSEMENTS LEGACIES 3,000.00 1,249.09 MISCELLANEOUS 999.73 1,619.08 IN & OUT 650.00 30.00 GRANTS PAID 42,750.52 9,056.37 AFLBS SCHOLARSHIPS - MK 2,000.00 6,000.00 WORLD RELIEF 3,744.85 4,929.74 W.M. - WORLD RELIEF 2,400.00 2,400.00 WYCLIFFE 11,298.00 14,592.65 LUTHERAN BIBLE TRANSLATORS 29,134.66 27,358.55 DISTANT SHORES MEDIA 5,175.00 10,763.00 TOTAL MISCELLANEOUS DISBURSEMENTS 101,152.76 77,998.48
AMBASSADOR INSTITUTE DISBURSMENTS AI - GRANTS PAID 0.00 655.00 TOTAL AMBASSADOR INSTITUTE DISBURSMENTS 0.00 655.00
56 2019 2018 JOURNEY MISSIONS DISBURSMENTS JM - ISRAEL 12,051.61 0.00 JM - BRAZIL 5,724.00 45,724.46 JM - UGANDA 0.00 18,753.54 SHORT-TERM ASSISTANTS 42,241.95 17,911.84 TOTAL JOURNEY MISSIONS DISBURSMENTS 60,017.56 82,389.84
BRAZIL PROJECTS DISBURSEMENTS SPECIAL PROJECTS - BRAZIL 41,355.11 19,080.48 STUDENT WORK FUND 425.00 200.00 STUDENT SCHOLARSHIP 5,650.00 3,874.00 ARCA 11,881.53 18,060.00 CAPITAL INVESTMENTS 15,600.00 0.00 TOTAL BRAZIL PROJECTS DISBURSEMENTS 74,911.64 41,214.48
MEXICO PROJECTS DISBURSEMENTS SPECIAL PROJECTS-MEXICO 4,717.66 8,591.41 TOTAL MEXICO PROJECTS DISBURSEMENTS 4,717.66 8,591.41
INDIA PROJECTS DISBURSEMENTS SPECIAL PROJECTS-INDIA 15,275.00 2,700.00 INDIA CHILDREN 11,300.00 15,786.28 RELIEF / FOOD 4,073.94 3,805.00 BIBLES/LITERATURE-INDIA 1,400.00 1,574.00 TOTAL INDIA PROJECTS DISBURSEMENTS 32,048.94 23,865.28
AFRICA PROJECTS DISBURSEMENTS SPECIAL PROJECTS-AFRICA 848.21 330.00 TOTAL AFRICA PROJECTS DISBURSEMENTS 848.21 330.00
ECUADOR PROJECTS DISBURSEMENTS 0.00 0.00
TOTAL NON-BUDGETED DISBURSEMENTS 273,696.77 235,044.49 TOTAL NON-BUDGETED NET INCOME (23,537.33) 43,554.76
World Missions Personal Support Income Statement Twelve Months Ending December 31, 2019
2019 2018 PAUL ABEL TOTAL SUPPORT 88,874.97 73,605.13 TOTAL EXPENSES 90,844.61 77,245.45 NET SUPPORT (1,969.64) (3,640.32)
MATTHEW ABEL TOTAL SUPPORT 84,368.25 92,328.87 TOTAL EXPENSES 72,833.24 76,546.44 NET SUPPORT 11,535.01 15,782.43
CONNELY DYRUD TOTAL SUPPORT TOTAL EXPENSES 812.54 1,080.21 NET SUPPORT (812.54) (1,080.21)
57 2019 2018 JOHN LEE TOTAL SUPPORT 57,911.80 63,664.46 TOTAL EXPENSES 70,374.13 89,369.22 NET SUPPORT (12,462.33) (25,704.76)
BRENT RAAN TOTAL SUPPORT 64,875.17 72,854.39 TOTAL EXPENSES 65,339.35 64,560.74 NET SUPPORT (464.18) 8,293.65
TODD SCHIERKOLK TOTAL SUPPORT 69,617.99 78,257.09 TOTAL EXPENSES 85,845.98 81,402.07 NET SUPPORT (16,227.99) (3,144.98)
JONATHAN ABEL TOTAL SUPPORT 82,294.47 72,540.54 TOTAL EXPENSES 108,638.68 82,249.32 NET SUPPORT (26,344.21) (9,708.78)
NATE JORE TOTAL SUPPORT 80,918.18 76,359.97 TOTAL EXPENSES 80,696.93 107,328.77 NET SUPPORT 221.25 (30,968.80)
JONNI SLIVER TOTAL SUPPORT 38,143.84 53,472.29 TOTAL EXPENSES 39,067.49 42,369.32 NET SUPPORT (923.65) 11,102.97
JUSTO PILLMAN TOTAL SUPPORT 244.80 38,068.32 TOTAL EXPENSES 991.50 40,286.57 NET SUPPORT (746.70) (2,218.25)
MICAH BERGER TOTAL SUPPORT 31,198.89 34,976.23 TOTAL EXPENSES 62,803.20 28,084.66 NET SUPPORT (31,604.31) 6,891.57
MICHAEL ROKENBRODT TOTAL SUPPORT 10,740.58 16,823.00 TOTAL EXPENSES 22,936.23 3,678.13 NET SUPPORT (12,195.65) 13,144.87
NEW MISSIONARY
TOTAL SUPPORT 0.00 0.00 TOTAL EXPENSES 0.00 200.00 NET SUPPORT 0.00 (200.00)
TOTAL PERSONAL SUPPORT RECEIPTS 609,188.94 672,950.29 TOTAL PERSONAL SUPPORT EXPENSES 701,183.88 694,400.90 PERSONAL SUPPORT NET INCOME (LOSS) (91,994.94) (21,450.61)
58 ASSOCIATION OF FREE LUTHERAN SCHOOLS FINANCIALS
59 Free Lutheran Seminary Balance Sheet For the Twelve Months Ending Wednesday, July 31, 2019
2018 2019 ASSETS
Cash & Equivalents ($329,763.91) ($442,702.70) Accounts Receivable 60,009.58 40,531.49 Total Current Assets (269,754.33) (402,171.21)
Investments 775,731.64 755,424.91 Total Long-Term Assets 775,731.64 755,424.91 FIXED ASSETS Fixed Assets 2,331,699.94 2,341,900.21 Net Fixed Assets 2,331,699.94 2,341,900.21 Total Assets $2,837,677.25 $2,695,153.91
LIABILITIES AND EQUITY
Accrued Expenses $1,208.19 $419.95 Due To & Accruals 486.97 (4,859.82) Notes Payable 0.00 0.00 Total Current Liabilities 1,695.16 (4,439.87) Total Liabilities 1,695.16 (4,439.87)
Equity 2,814,098.71 2,837,022.04 Current Year Net Income 21,883.38 (137,428.26) Total Equity 2,835,982.09 2,699,593.78 Total Liabilities and Equity $2,837,677.25 $2,695,153.91
60 Free Lutheran Seminary All Funds For the Twelve Months Ending Wednesday, July 31, 2019
2018 2019 INCOME Revenue
Program Fees $333,696.13 $341,689.12 Maintenance & Facility Revenue 25,635.50 21,065.00 Total Revenue 359,331.63 362,754.12
Contributions General Gifts 295,971.80 278,142.25 Matching Funds 0.00 0.00 Other 30,597.66 3,453.43 Total Contributions 326,569.46 281,595.68
Non-Budgeted Income Legacy Gifts (25,564.72) (10,893.49) Special Appeal Gifts 23,500.00 10,100.00 Other 26,562.05 23,399.63 Total Non-Budgeted Income 24,497.33 22,606.14
Other Income Other 8,219.77 8,113.94 Scholarship Contributions 27,576.83 (27,651.69) Interest & Change In Investments 50,149.97 (21,557.62) Restricted Funds Released 95,912.80 57,303.49 Total Other Income 181,859.37 16,208.12 TOTAL INCOME 892,257.79 683,164.06
EXPENSES
Salaries & Wages Teachers 229,713.82 239,707.99 Maintenance 17,966.01 12,492.38 Library 20,198.96 5,110.14 Office 262,762.46 250,142.33 Honorariums 1,807.70 320.00 AFLTS/AFLBS Staff Share 5,029.08 5,029.08 Total Salaries & Wages 537,478.03 512,801.92
Benefits Insurance Premiums 25,278.44 24,730.89 Other Premiums/Fees 2,356.86 2,041.47 Employee Education 8,123.54 5,057.16 Staff Appreciation 643.19 663.01 Total Benefits 36,402.03 32,492.53
Program Expenses Food Service 497.77 1,357.12 Student Activities 9,246.62 3,052.65 Music Education 0.00 125.00 Library 3,965.61 4,199.96 Mission Conference/J-Term 375.00 0.00 Educational Materials/Supplies 24,421.43 34,577.13 Total Program Expenses 38,506.43 43,311.86
Utilities Gas, Electric, Water 23,811.74 24,168.49 61 Free Lutheran Seminary All Funds For the Twelve Months Ending Wednesday, July 31, 2019 Phones & Internet 4,201.29 5,126.61 Total Utilities 28,013.03 29,295.10
Insurance Commerical/Umbrella 8,248.12 13,302.01 Worker's Compensation 1,872.63 2,096.46 Total Insurance 10,120.75 15,398.47
Overhead AFLC 35,830.92 36,787.57 Office Expense 4,834.32 4,129.15 Travel 62,545.04 30,270.05 Computer Support 17,460.62 9,956.54 Accounting/Legal 4,875.00 6,575.00 Promotional 300.00 7,000.32 Refunds & Write-Offs 4,828.46 0.00 Total Overhead 130,674.36 94,718.63
Repairs & Maintenance Buildings 42,254.56 35,559.40 Supplies 20,085.00 27,585.00 Equipment Purchases & Repairs 0.00 264.00 Contract Services 15,076.75 15,571.06 Total Repairs & Maintenance 77,416.31 78,979.46
Interest Expense Interest on Loans 0.00 0.00 Total Interest 0.00 0.00
Scholarship Disbursements General Other 0.00 3,390.55 Total Disbursements 0.00 3,390.55
Taxes Payroll 10,428.61 4,305.39 Total Insurance 10,428.61 4,305.39
Non-Budgeted Misc. General 1,334.86 13,293.33 Total Miscellaneous 1,334.86 13,293.33
TOTAL EXPENSES 870,374.41 827,987.24 NET CHANGE 21,883.38 (144,823.18)
62 Free Lutheran Bible College Balance Sheet For the Twelve Months Ending Wednesday, July 31, 2019
2018 2019 ASSETS
Cash & Equivalents ($136,808.52) ($480,590.50) Accounts Receivable 123,344.64 144,586.42 Total Current Assets (13,463.88) (336,004.08)
Investments 1,445,440.28 2,138,306.57 Total Long-Term Assets 1,445,440.28 2,138,306.57 FIXED ASSETS Fixed Assets 6,145,593.87 6,411,013.63 Less Accumulated Depreciation 3,128,555.61 3,551,571.91 Net Fixed Assets 3,017,038.26 2,859,441.72 Total Assets $4,449,014.66 $4,661,744.21
LIABILITIES AND EQUITY
Accrued Expenses $13,498.17 $14,823.45 Due To & Accruals 57,473.70 97,085.70 Accounts Payable 4,318.01 15,758.01 Notes Payable Total Current Liabilities 75,289.88 127,667.16 Total Liabilities 75,289.88 127,667.16
Equity 3,726,992.98 4,027,606.31 Current Year Net Income 646,731.80 506,470.74 Total Equity 4,373,724.78 4,534,077.05 Total Liabilities and Equity $4,449,014.66 $4,661,744.21
63 Free Lutheran Bible College All Funds For the Twelve Months Ending Wednesday, July 31, 2019
2018 2019 INCOME Revenue
Program Fees $1,388,897.38 $1,123,041.85 Maintenance & Facility Revenue 64,879.33 76,497.39 Total Revenue 1,453,776.71 1,199,539.24
Contributions General Gifts 449,617.43 357,148.18 Ministry Team Related 172,459.51 150,726.69 Matching Funds 0.00 0.00 Other 236,877.14 82,614.25 Total Contributions 858,954.08 590,489.12
Non-Budgeted Income Legacy Gifts (35,692.73) 0.00 Special Appeal Gifts 35,821.63 28,892.83 Other 26,562.05 23,399.64 Total Non-Budgeted Income 26,690.95 52,292.47
Other Income Other 115,462.71 261,291.15 Scholarship Contributions (194,691.55) 216,564.25 Interest & Change In Investments 863,043.44 692,903.62 Restricted Funds Released 216,879.75 55,327.22 Total Other Income 1,000,694.35 1,226,086.24 TOTAL INCOME 3,340,116.09 3,068,407.07
EXPENSES
Salaries & Wages Teachers 341,082.20 338,116.94 Maintenance 181,699.98 177,297.76 Food Service 134,388.00 128,978.85 Library 20,199.20 16,715.64 Office 521,460.31 450,696.34 Athletics 16,600.02 6,075.00 Honorariums 907.71 840.00 Residence Staff 53,677.16 102,660.76 AFLTS/AFLBS Staff Share (5,029.08) (5,029.08) Total Salaries & Wages 1,264,985.50 1,216,352.21
Benefits Insurance Premiums 45,103.63 48,277.29 Other Premiums/Fees 7,143.62 14,395.93 Employee Education 21,482.62 10,207.57 Total Benefits 73,729.87 72,880.79
Program Expenses Food Service 157,351.61 155,360.10 Student Activities 80,293.00 43,734.12 Ministry Teams 293,275.89 152,580.04 Music Education 18,647.50 9,972.54 Library 10,995.16 11,626.94 Mission Conference/J-Term 12,922.50 11,958.95 Educational Materials/Supplies 3,205.83 9,897.85 64 Free Lutheran Bible College All Funds For the Twelve Months Ending Wednesday, July 31, 2019 Athletics 23,857.38 25,116.51 Total Program Expenses 600,548.87 420,247.05
Utilities Student Center 225 Gas, Electric, Water 111,063.27 120,209.38 Phones & Internet 19,091.24 16,457.01 Total Utilities 130,154.51 136,666.39
Insurance Commerical/Umbrella 35,495.11 47,475.75 Automobiles 0 0 Worker's Compensation 8,600.77 8,886.29 Total Insurance 44,095.88 56,362.04
Overhead AFLC 49,494.46 51,380.46 Office Expense 49,785.90 32,403.28 Travel 45,664.93 35,877.40 Computer Support 32,993.66 96,959.68 Accounting 11,464.25 18,679.30 Legal 5,662.93 4,498.68 Miscellaneous 928.55 2,847.07 Promotional 55,098.52 55,487.92 Refunds & Write-Offs 0.00 0.00 Total Overhead 251,093.20 298,133.79
Repairs & Maintenance Buildings 66,504.83 127,584.36 Supplies 13,836.25 11,261.80 Grounds 14,095.67 28,848.70 Equipment Purchases & Repairs 61,259.75 81,961.72 Contract Services 12,785.27 14,268.24 Total Repairs & Maintenance 168,481.77 263,924.82
Interest Expense Interest on Loans 0 0 Total Interest 0.00 0.00
Scholarship Disbursements General 0.00 0.00 Other 0.00 90,772.45 Total Disbursements 0.00 90,772.45
Taxes Payroll 72,261.92 72,687.76 Total Insurance 72,261.92 72,687.76
Non-Budgeted Misc. General 92,039.05 134,224.88 Total Miscellaneous 92,039.05 134,224.88
TOTAL EXPENSES 2,697,390.57 2,762,252.18 NET CHANGE 642,725.52 306,154.89 65 Vision Balance Sheet For the Twelve Months Ending Wednesday, July 31, 2019
2018 2019 ASSETS
Cash & Equivalents $1,809,622.36 $2,448,526.40 Accounts Receivable 0.00 0.00 Total Current Assets 1,809,622.36 2,448,526.40
FIXED ASSETS -124271.00
Total Assets $1,809,622.36 $2,324,255.40
LIABILITIES AND EQUITY Due To & Accruals 0.00 0.00 Total Current Liabilities 0.00 0.00 Total Liabilities 0.00 0.00
Equity 136,397.64 1,817,622.36 Current Year Net Income 1,673,224.72 506,633.04 Total Equity 1,809,622.36 2,324,255.40 Total Liabilities and Equity $1,809,622.36 $2,324,255.40
66 FLTSC Vision Program All Funds Statement of Activities For the Twelve Months Ending Wednesday, July 31, 2019
2018 2019 INCOME
Contributions General Gifts $1,738,268.42 $843,834.81 Total Contributions 1,738,268.42 843,834.81
TOTAL INCOME 1,738,268.42 843,834.81
EXPENSES
Overhead Office Expense 50957.41 47710.39 Travel 0 21831.09 Promotional 6,086.29 18,368.29 Total Overhead 57,043.70 87,909.77
Campus Improvements Design 8000 124271 Permits/Fees 0 0 Legal 0 750 Construction 0.00 0.00 Total Improvements 8,000.00 125,021.00 TOTAL EXPENSES 65,043.70 212,930.77 NET CHANGE 1,673,224.72 630,904.04
67 AFLC CAMP REPORTS
Lake Bronson Family Camp, Lake Bronson, MN Wilderness Bible Camp, Lake Park, MN Bethany Bible Camp, Bemidji, MN
68 LAKE BRONSON FAMILY CAMP LAKE BRONSON, MN AFLC LAKE BRONSON FAMILY CAMP 2019
Balance $2,672.09
Income Registration $ 5,140.00 Coffee & Meals $ 290.00 Offering $ 1,326.69 Canteen $ 238.00 $ 6,994.69 $ 9,666.78 Expenses Salaries $ (2,350.00) Food $ (1,922.33) Camp Rental $ (2,490.00) $ (6,762.33)
Balance on hand $ 2,904.45
Respectfully Submitted, Sonia Balmer, Treasurer
69 WILDERNESS BIBLE CAMP LAKE PARK, MN AFLC WIDERNESS BIBLE CAMP LAKE PARK, MN Balance Sheet – Year Ending 2019
Beginning Balance 12404.96
Income:
Gifts/Camp Offering 11976.01
Total Income 11976.01
Plus Beginning Balance 12404.96
Grand Total 24380.97
Disbursements: Wild Rice Electric 1232.36 Camp Speakers 1915.00 Licenses 683.00 Camp Improvements 419.08 Buffalo River Sales (mower) 5200.00 Legacy Plumbing 2517.78 Ballard Sanitation 470.34 Mosquito Joe’s 483.19
Total Disbursements 12920.75
Grand Total (Income) 24380.97
Less Total Disbursements 12920.75
Ending Balance 11460.22
Respectfully Submitted, Tom Gillen, Treasurer
For camp info. contact Matt Olson – [email protected] 70 BETHANY BIBLE CAMP BEMIDJI, MN Bethany Bible Camp is owned by 15 churches in the North Central Minnesota District of the AFLC. Bethany Bible Camp was estab- lished in 1939 and our mission statement is “To provide an atmo- sphere and facility where people are established, nurtured, and equipped to be disciples of Jesus Christ.” We are located at 51497 Tanager Drive, Bemidji MN, 56601 approximately 12 miles west of Bemidji on beautiful Grace Lake. Our District events for 2020: At the time of writing this update, our board has decided that we will not be holding our traditional Jr. and Sr. camps in June. We are looking into our options to still meet together, virtually, or in person, later this summer. Ministry may look a little different this summer, but we trust in the LORD and believe good can come out of this unprecedented time. We are challenged to connect with each of our 82 Jr. campers and 64 Sr. campers from last summer! Amazing num- bers, we thank the Lord! Still scheduled at this time (following State guidelines): July 9 – 10 • Women’s Retreat • Lisa Kangas speaking, the theme is Abiding: Living in and Ministering to the Presence of Christ from John 15:9
August 14 – 16 • Men’s Retreat • Featuring multiple speakers, fish- ing tournament and fellowship Bethany Bible Camp is also rented out for family reunions and other church groups to hold camps. Call us for availability, 218-751-6094. Respectfully Submitted, Angie Berg
71 AFLC BUDGET ANALYSIS COMMITTEE
To the Fifty-Eighth Annual Conference of the Association of Free Lutheran Congregations assembled at the Association Retreat Center, Osceola, WI. August 10-12, 2020.
The Budget Analysis Committee (BAC) met at the AFLC Headquarters on March 17-18, 2020 to review the proposed budgets and financial conditions of the various AFLC ministries. We met with representatives of World Missions, Home Missions, FLBCS, Youth, Parish Education, AED, and the Coordinating Committee. BAC members present were Mr. Mike Tietjen, Mrs. Christine Stout via Go to Meeting, and Mr. Steve Jankord.
Purpose The BAC is elected by and reports to the Annual Conference. The purpose of the BAC is to review the finances and budget proposals of each department requesting a subsidy from the Annual Conference and to report our findings to the Conference. The goals of the BAC are: 1. Consistent review of each ministry’s budget projections 2. Fairness to all ministries in the process of requesting subsidies 3. Clear and concise reporting of ministry finances to the Annual Conference 4. Promotion of stewardship and financial efficiency 5. Systematic improvement of the budgetary process Under the budgeting system the various ministries develop and present their budget subsidy requests without any external constraint. Each ministry is asked to balance anticipated giving with their perceived ministry needs. The proposed subsidy amounts are not developed by the BAC. The job of projecting consistent and accurate budgets is the responsibility of the ministries themselves with final oversight ultimately resting with you, the Annual Conference. Last year, the AFLC Conference approved the AFLC Budgeting Guideline as proposed by the Budget Analysis Committee. The BAC started sharing and discussing this at the All Boards Meeting in September 2017. The BAC published the proposed Guideline in the Conference Report of 2018 and 2019. The BAC has consistently discussed this approach and answered questions of all ministries and of the Conference since the fall of 2017 and encourages all ministries and the Conference to use that guide in preparing and approving annual budget subsidy requests. The BAC provides the Conference with an overall financial picture of each ministry so that you can provide guidance to these ministries. We remind the Conference that your approval of the subsidy requests for each ministry represent the approval of the stated budget and direction of that
72 ministry and the pledge of the larger church body to support each ministry to that level. We strongly encourage the Conference to give prayerful consideration before approving these requests. We also would encourage you to take this information back to your local congregation and promote the needs of these ministries. We are grateful to the Lord for the provision He continues to make for His people. We rejoice to see the generous gifts and faithful servants He continues to raise up to carry His work forward. We are grateful to all who met with our committee and shared their vision and insights into the on- going work. We are grateful to Katie Johnson in assisting our committee.
Corporation Department 2017 2018 2019 2020 2021 2021 Subsidy $/% Actual Actual Actual Subsidy Subsidy increase over 2019 Subsidy Subsidy Subsidy Request Request Actual Receipts Receipts Receipts
Gen Fund $422,680 $407,161 $415,102 $472,500 $475,000 $59,898 14%
Evangelism $136,035 $135,765 $130,106 $150,395 $131,200 $1,094 1% Coordinating Committee Parish Ed. $169,346 $167,251 $149,140 $184,000 $172,000 $22,860 15%
Youth $165,246 $141,803 $134,522 $147,000 $152,500 $17,978 13%
CC Total $893,307 $851,980 $828,870 $953,895 $930,700 $101,830 12%
AFLTS $276,140 $292,963 $280,679 $363,871 $280,756 $77 0%
Schools AFLBS $640,028 $522,722 $525,170 $674,394 $537,477 $12,307 2% Schools Total $916,168 $815,684 $805,849 $1,038,265 $818,233 $12,384 2%
Home $599,751 $474,235 $391,991 $521,285 $521,285 $129,294 33%
World $462,344 $394,914 $428,260 $434,000 $432,000 $3,740 1% Missions Personal Supp $650,731 $674,320 $672,131 $762,000 $762,000 $89,869 13% Missions Total $1,712,826 $1,543,469 $1,492,381 $1,717,285 $1,715,285 $222,904 15%
AFLC Totals $3,522,301 $3,211,133 $3,127,101 $3,709,445 $3,464,218 $337,117 11%
73 General Fund 1. The Coordinating Committee is requesting a subsidy increase of 14% over 2019 actual receipts.
General Fund Request Actual $550,000
$500,000
$450,000
$400,000
$350,000
$300,000
$250,000
$200,000 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017 2018 2019 2020 2021
AED 1. AED is requesting a subsidy increase of 1% over 2019 actual receipts.
Evangelism Request Actual
$170,000
$160,000
$150,000
$140,000
$130,000
$120,000
$110,000
$100,000 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017 2018 2019 2020 2021
74 Parish Education 1. Parish Education is requesting a subsidy increase of 15% over 2019 actual receipts.
Parish Education Request Actual $190,000 $180,000 $170,000 $160,000 $150,000 $140,000 $130,000 $120,000 $110,000 $100,000 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017 2019 2020 2021
Youth 1. The Youth Board is requesting a subsidy decrease of 13% over 2019 actual receipts.
Youth Ministries Request Actual $180,000
$160,000
$140,000
$120,000
$100,000
$80,000
$60,000 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015 2017 2018 2019 2020 2021
75 Schools 1. FLS is requesting a subsidy increase of 0% and FLBC an increase of 2% compared with 2019 actual receipts.
Seminary Request Actual $400,000
$350,000
$300,000
$250,000
$200,000
$150,000
$100,000 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017 2019 2020 2021
Bible College Request Actual $800,000
$700,000
$600,000
$500,000
$400,000
$300,000
$200,000 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017 2019 2020 2021
76 Home Missions 1. Home Missions is requesting a subsidy increase of 33% over 2019 actual receipts.
Home Missions Request Actual $700,000 $650,000 $600,000 $550,000 $500,000 $450,000 $400,000 $350,000 $300,000 $250,000 $200,000 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017 2019 2020 2021
77 World Missions 1. World Missions is requesting a subsidy increase of 1% over 2019 actual receipts.
World Missions Request Actual $550,000
$500,000
$450,000
$400,000
$350,000
$300,000
$250,000
$200,000 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017 2019 2020 2021
78 World Missions Personal Support 1. WM Personal Support is unique in that it does not get a share of undesignated gifts and it technically does not receive a budget subsidy request because all funds are raised by the World Missionaries. 2. We raise the question to the WM Committee and the Missions Corporation to review how this area of receipts is greatly increasing in the past 5 years and yet most ministries subsidy receipts are dropping, flat, or very minor increases in that same timeframe. 3. We appreciate the support and work of our World Missionaries – but wonder if the Missions Corporation should review this trend and consider if this is financially feasible for the AFLC to continue when the actual AFLC Congregations and subsidy support is in decline?
Personal Support Request Actual $900,000
$800,000
$700,000
$600,000
$500,000
$400,000
$300,000
$200,000 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017 2019 2020 2021
79 Closing The Conference has a tendency to approve budget subsidy requests without question. Recent history shows a growing disparity between the requests and actual receipts. Normally that has not been a significant problem - as ministries adjust year to year and since receipts generally increase year to year – the ministries get by for a couple years and then catch up.
While subsidy receipts increased from 1994 to 2017, total AFLC subsidy receipts have declined in 2018 and 2019. This trend continues through February 2020 when compared to 2019. Why is this a problem today? The Conference’s affirming of budget subsidy requests sends the message that they are supported, and the congregations will help to meet these requests even though they exceed historical trends. The approval of these requests is by no means a guarantee nor is it a limitation on what may eventually be given. The AFLC Congregations are free and living and there is no expectation or requirement that they give to any AFLC work. The Conference has the authority and responsibility to approve, deny, or change budget subsidy requests as always - but now you have the Guidelines that you approved last year to help you in making that decision. Based on the approved Guidelines, the budget subsidy requests should be based narrowly on the most recent actual subsidy receipts with a minor increase for inflation. The reason for this guidance is because budget subsidy requests do not represent the total budget or a goal. Budget subsidy requests narrowly represent only what the ministry can reasonably expect to receive based on most recent actual receipts. The boards of each ministry must also plan for the possibility they may not be met, and they are elected to oversee their ministries accordingly. The committees, ministries, boards, and Corporations have the legal fiduciary responsibility to see that they do not budget to spend more than they can reasonably expect to receive on a regular basis. The BAC does not recommend what each ministry should request from the Conference for their annual budget subsidy. We track and identify past and current actual giving and compare that to actual subsidy requests so the Conference can see the trends and see which requests are outside the Guidelines. This year any ministry requesting a 2021 subsidy request more than a 2% increase from 2019 actual receipts, is not consistent with the Conference approved Guidelines. The Conference, in following the guideline, should deny that request or approve a budget subsidy request at or below 2% above 2019 receipts. Each of the ministries receiving the right to request budget subsidy requests and a share of undesignated gifts have been asked to follow the Conference approved Guidelines. We have shared with each of them our BAC report so that the BAC continues to be fair and consistent to each of 80 the ministries under the purview of the Conference. The BAC continues to believe the Conference Approved Guideline is consistent with the BAC recommendations’ of the past, is fair and consistent to each of the ministries involved in the process, and the Conference would be most fair in only approving budget subsidy requests that are consistent with the Conference Approved Guideline.
As the BAC continues to focus on systematic improvement to the Budgetary Process, and also encourages the legal Corporations to have a more focused involvement in the total budgetary process – we share these thoughts and ask the Corporations to set priorities and to only budget expenses consistent with most recent historical actual receipts. Also, since the declines in overall subsidy receipts appears to be continuing – making adjustments/cuts now, in 2020, in line with actual receipts in 2020 would be good stewardship at this time. The Conference shows good stewardship in serving the AFLC Congregations as well by only approving budget subsidy requests consistent the Conference approved Budgeting Guideline. Respectfully submitted, The Budget Analysis Committee Phillip Peterson, Christine Stout, Cory Buck, Steve Jankord, Mike Tietjen
81 2020 AFLC ANNUAL CONFERENCE BUDGET ANALYSIS COMMITTEE ADDENDUM
AFLC Budgeting Guideline, Pages 83-86
AFLC Subsidy Receipts 1994 to 2019 (with WM Personal Support), Page 87
AFLC Subsidy Receipts 1994 to 2019 (without WM Personal Support), Page 88
82 AFLC BUDGETING GUIDELINE
After reviewing previous Budget Analysis Committee (BAC) reports to the Annual Conference, we found five themes that consistently appeared that would help the Conference effectively evaluate ministry subsidy requests. In addition, we believe it would be helpful if the 3 major Corporations and ministries that receive budget subsidies could agree on this set of guidelines from BAC historical reports to form a budgeting ‘guideline’ to which we can all be accountable. Corporations are solely responsible for setting their budgets, but we ask for your support to use these statements to guide you in your budgeting and planning process.
1. As each Corporation develops priorities, plans, and budgets; based on long-term planning; we recommend they share those overall plans when they share the budget subsidy requests to Annual Conference. The Conference can take into consideration those overall Corporate plans as they approve the annual budget subsidy requests for each ministry.
2. In consideration of the first point, annual budget subsidy requests by each ministry/Corporation should be evaluated to ensure that the needs of essential work of that ministry/Corporation continues to be met. The unintended consequence of failing to do so is that ‘new’ opportunities could take priority over the funding of traditional essential AFLC work.
3. The historical record of the BAC specifically and consistently emphasizes the need for restraint in arbitrarily increasing a subsidy for a ministry without clearly establishing the funding source for the increase. Thus, these guidelines recommend that the most prudent manner for significant increases in ministry funding is to secure a funding source outside of the Conference subsidy and to allow these funds to systematically impact subsequent budget planning. As the impact of this new funding is experienced, budgets will begin to ‘normalize’ at the desired level.
4. From the BAC report of 2004, “We noticed a disturbing trend has developed in using legacy funds as “life jackets” to deal with problems and shortfalls and not as they have been historically used for special projects. This practice has depleted nearly all reserve funds in the AFLC.” This guideline affirms that concern and recommends that the priority for legacy/estate gifts should be a source of funding for new ministry/projects, major capital needs, or as a means of funding significant portions of the annual budget over longer periods of time (e.g. quasi- endowments). Reliance on these legacy/estate gifts to cover accumulated deficits or to meet significant gaps in the annual operating budget is not a sound financial plan.
5. Cooperation, working together, thinking of the Congregation, and the whole work of the AFLC should be a key consideration in each department’s budget planning.
Approved by 2019 AFLC Annual Conference
2 Corinthians 8:13-15; 20-21 Our desire is not that others might be relieved while you are hard pressed, but that there might be equality. At the present time your plenty will supply what they need, so that in turn their plenty will supply what you need. The goal is equality, as it is written: “The one who gathered much did not have too much, and the one who gathered little did not have too little.” We want to avoid any criticism of the way we administer this liberal gift. For we are taking pains to do what is right, not only in the eyes of the Lord but also in the eyes of man.” 83
With Conference approval of the AFLC Budgeting Guideline - it will help the Conference in making informed decisions on approving budget subsidy requests. The Conference does not approve budgets – the committees, boards, and the Corporations they serve under have the legal fiduciary responsibility for overseeing the ministries and the overall finances of those ministries. But the Conference, when approving budget subsidy requests, is affirming the direction of that ministry, agreeing to support that ministry financially accordingly, and willing to share with their congregation the need to also support that ministry’s budget subsidy requests financially.
The BAC of 2019, recognizes the statement from the 1994-95 recommendation below as truly helpful to the AFLC in seeking systematic improvement to the budgetary process:
“The thoughts of this committee currently run along the lines of a more focused involvement by the legal corporations of the AFLC in the entire budgeting process.”
• These AFLC Budgeting Guideline gives the conference and the committees, boards, and corporations, the framework to make informed decisions, that will protect your AFLC core values, and allow you to take responsible and timely action that will allow the work of the AFLC to continue by the grace of God within the resources the AFLC Congregations and friends provide. This allows for one set of guidelines that is consistent for all ministries and Corporations receiving budget subsidies and a share of the undesignated gifts from the Conference. But there is also flexibility to the ministries and Corporations how they apply this from time to time and they can explain those exceptions to the Conference at the time of annual budget subsidy requests for approval from the Conference.
• From 2008 BAC report - Reminder a budget subsidy does not mean budget. It does not mean the total need of a Department. “Subsidy” refers narrowly to the amount that each department can expect to receive from normal and regular individual and congregational gifts. The subsidy amount requested by each ministry should be based primarily on the subsidy receipts which the ministry has received in the past two years – with a reasonable small increase based on inflation.
• Guideline: A general rule, principle, or piece of advice.
From BAC Power Point to All Boards – September, 2018
• A lot of key points that follow are from Jim Collins books “Built to Last” and “Good to Great” and “Good to Great and the Social Sectors – Why Business Thinking is not the answer.”
• The key to long-term ministry effectiveness is NOT to become more like a business.
• Jim Collins states: “In my work with non-profits, I find that they’re in desperate need of greater discipline --- disciplined planning, disciplined people, disciplined governance, and disciplined allocation of resources.”
The Conference too would benefit from appropriate discipline and guidelines in approving budget subsidy requests. 84 HISTORY
1995 - Over the years of the AFLC’s existence there has been a tendency for the budgets proposed to the annual conference to be unduly optimistic. To address this perpetual inclination the 1969 conference created the BAC. The resolution was in response to an 8 paragraph commentary on this topic in the President’s Report. For our general information 2 paragraphs of President John Strand’s report are included here:
“As an association, we cannot enter every opportunity as a larger fellowship might. We cannot hire every teacher that may want to teach, send out every one who may want to go to Brazil, enter every home mission field, hire all the personnel we could use at our office, not print all that could be print- ed for distribution. We must establish priorities as to what will build the Association most effectively. Surely the entire work is aimed at the saving of souls, and building God’s Kingdom. A well-balanced program for the entire Association ought to be the goal.”
“A budget that is beyond our attaining is discouraging. One of the main reasons for the merger of the Lutheran Free Church with the ALC was the high budget the LFC was not reaching. Let us not get trapped into a similar situation. Let us rather have a program that will challenge our people but that they will not find burdensome. If more monies come in, it can be used for added opportunities. I am confident there will be more progress this way.”
The impetus of his remarks may have come from the report of the “Analysis Committee” (a small committee with a member from each of the boards of the three corporations which apparently was the unofficial predecessor to the present Budget Analysis Committee). Selected portions from that report by Sheldon Mortrud, Trygve Dahle, and Raynard Huglen follow:
“The task of the Analysis Committee is to study the budget requests of the 5 main agencies of the Association for the next fiscal year and to seek to determine what are reasonable goals which can be presented to the Annual Conference for recommendation to the congregations.”
They continued on with examples of requests far exceeding receipts and graphs illustrating there is little correlation between large requests and increases in re- ceipts from the early beginnings of the AFLC. The necessity of having a budget prepared and presented to the annual conference stems from the facts that we are living in a physical world where money is one of the tools for accomplishing the work of the kingdom. The purpose of a budget is the planning and control of finances. There needs to be order, discipline and realism in the business end of the ministry. Just as you or I cannot run our household finances knowing that our budget is significantly higher than our income, neither should a ministry. An impossibly high budget does not increase ministry. A budget that can actually be met does not decrease ministry. This is clear from the financial history of the AFLC. The Budget Analysis Committee does not set budgets, the people of the AFLC set the budgets by their giving patterns. For these same reasons, we urge the conference to use restraint in increasing budget amounts from the floor unless there is also a plan for raising of the additional funds above and beyond the normal giving pattern. 85 Resolution approved at 2008 AFLC Annual Conference:
(after receiving the recommendations of the Budget Analysis Review Committee):
16. In order to communicate clearly and consistently the needs of each ministry, the Budget Analysis Review Committee recommends that the subsidy recommendations made to the conference be established by related board. MSC to adopt.
17. In order to eliminate direct correlation between the gift receipts and how undesignated funds are distributed, the Budget Analysis Review Committee recommend that undesignated gifts be distributed equally to each of the three corporations and that no limit is placed on such amounts. MSC to adopt.
18. In order to maintain accountability to the Annual Conference, the Budget Analysis Review committee recommends that the BAC continue to: A. Track projected income for each ministry/corporation and compare with ministry requests. B. Provide objective feedback to each ministry during annual budget meetings. MSC to adopt.
Resolution approved at 2018 AFLC Annual Conference:
WHEREAS some lack of clarity exists concerning the final destination of undesignated gifts;
AND the Budget Analysis Committee desires to affirm the 2008 Conference approved resolution regarding undesignated gifts,
AND The Budget Analysis Committee desires to affirm the longstanding practice for distributing undesignated bequests/estate/planned gifts,
BE IT RESOLVED that the gifts sent to the AFLC but not designated to a specific department (including gifts stating ‘use where needed most’) be distributed in thirds, with one third going to each of the three corporations (Schools, Missions, Coordinating Committee),
AND BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the undesignated bequests/estate/ planned gifts given to the AFLC but not designated to a specific Corporation or department be left to the discretionary use of the Coordinating Commit- tee,
AND BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that donors are strongly encouraged to designate to their desired department(s) in their legal documents and or correspondence. MSC to adopt.
86 From 2004 From 2004 From 2004 2019 82.37% 32.10% 64.20% 33.14% 89.21% 221.01% 219.71% 202.43% 142.83% 201.66% 178.19% 166.31% 178.17% AFLC Increase AFLC years 25 Past Percent Increase from 1994 2019
31,617 187,491 102,680 134,522 554,799 165,092 351,077 516,169 153,260 106,593 316,894 931,983
2,002,952
$ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ AFLC Increase AFLC 25past years Dollar Increase from 1994 2.73% 1.66% 3.12% 4.24% 0.11% -6.80% -2.52% -0.40% 11.01% 43.31% -14.61% -30.79% -13.59% Changes from 2014 to 2019 Percent Increase from 2014 2019 415,102 149,140 130,106 134,522 828,870 280,679 525,170 805,849 391,991 428,260 672,131
1,492,381
3,127,101 $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ Actual Receipts Subsidy 19% 48% 55% 41% 63% 65% 64% 96% 96% 32% 71% 60% 116% 2014 Percent Increase from 2004 2014 373,932 145,181 152,367 132,322 803,802 301,166 503,826 804,992 566,347 495,609 469,004
1,530,960
3,139,754
$ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ Actual Receipts Subsidy 38% 60% 76% 69% 21% 60% -21% 74% 111% 108% 2004 Percent Increase from 1994 2004 97,918 98,489 61,226
313,328 570,961 184,437 305,933 490,370 288,959 252,863 355,237 897,059
1,958,390
$ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ Actual Receipts Subsidy - - - 1994 46,460
227,611 274,071 115,587 174,093 289,680 238,731 321,667 560,398
1,124,149
$ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ Actual Receipts Subsidy FromBAC the Report 1994 to Annual Conference: CC Corp. Corp. Schools Corp. Missions AFLC Total The thoughts of the committee currently run along the lines of a more focused involvement focused more a lines of the run along currently committee the of thoughts The of organization The process. budgeting entire in the AFLC the of Corporations legal by the process. in1994 thought this beginning to table alludes the G.F. Ed. Parish Evangelism Youth Total Corp. AFLTS AFLBS Corp. Total Home World WM Pers. Support Corp. Total
87 From 2004 From 2004 From 2019 82.37% 32.10% 64.20% 33.14% 46.37% 221.01% 219.71% 202.43% 142.83% 201.66% 178.19% 118.38% AFLC Increase AFLC Past 25 years Percent Increase 1994from -
2019 31,617
187,491 102,680 134,522 554,799 165,092 351,077 516,169 153,260 106,593 259,853
1,330,821
$ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ AFLC Increase AFLC past 25 years Dollar Increase 1994from 2.73% 1.66% 3.12% 4.24% 0.11% -6.80% -8.08% 11.01% -14.61% -30.79% -13.59% -22.76% Changes 2014 from to 2019 Percent Increase from 2014 -
2019 415,102 149,140 130,106 134,522 828,870 280,679 525,170 805,849 391,991 428,260 820,251
2,454,970
$ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ Actual Receipts Subsidy 19% 48% 55% 41% 63% 65% 64% 96% 96% 96% 67% 116% 2014 Percent Increase 2004 from -
2014 373,932 145,181 152,367 132,322 803,802 301,166 503,826 804,992 566,347 495,609
1,061,956
2,670,750 $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ Actual Receipts Subsidy -3% 38% 60% 76% 69% 21% -21% 43% 111% 108% 2004 Percent Increase 1994 from
- 2004 97,918 98,489 61,226
313,328 570,961 184,437 305,933 490,370 288,959 252,863 541,822
1,603,153
$ Without World Missions Personal Support $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ Actual Receipts Subsidy
- - - 1994 46,460
227,611 274,071 115,587 174,093 289,680 238,731 321,667 560,398
1,124,149
$ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ Actual Actual Receipts Subsidy From the 1994 BAC Report to Annual Conference: CC Corp. Schools Corp. Missions Corp. AFLC Total Thefollowing WM deletes spreadsheet Personal as Support that area not get aundesignated does of share gifts and own funds. theytheir raise This have the 3 Corporations totalshows similar thenof in and each CC past totals the shows greatest G.F. theincrease 5 years. in subsidy receipts. involvement focused more a lines the of along run currently committee the of thoughts The of organization The process. budgeting entire in the AFLC the of Corporations legal by the in 1994 beginning to this process. alludes table the thought G.F. Ed. Parish Evangelism Youth Total Corp. AFLTS AFLBS Total Corp. Home World Support Pers. WM Total Corp.
88 CHAIRMAN EVANGELISM & DISCIPLESHIP COMMITTEE To the 58th Annual Conference of the Association of Free Lutheran Congregations gathered at The Association Retreat Center (ARC) in Osceola, WI.
I praise God for the Lord’s continued guidance for the AED Board. We have been blessed with Pastor Jim Rasmussens leadership over many years of service to our AFLC Congregations. A year ago Jim asked our board to consider the process of looking in to a replacement of the Director of the AED board as Jim was wanting to step down from his position. Our sincere thanks for Jim for his love and gifts of service.
We begin a new chapter on the AED Board with the nomination and acceptance of Pastor Randy Nelson as our new AED Director. We look ahead with great enthusiasm as the board listens to and ministers to our AFLC Congregations. Randy brings to our board a great sense of energy, enthusiasm, wisdom, compassion and love. Randy has been impacted by other Pastors in the past and he desires to reach into the congregations to share that information. Randy desires to build relationships with our AFLC Pastors, congregations and congregational leaders to help grow and revitalize each other. Randy will continue as a board member of the AFLC P.A.A.C.T Ministry which compliments his position as the AED Director.
Randy began his new position on March 1, 2020. He started the new position running hard and fast to accomplish the goals that he and our board have been reformulating. Randy began by making a Facebook page for the AED Board and put us on Instagram and Twitter. Our Facebook page is growing, the Instagram & Twitter accounts are slow to grow due to how those sites work. We are in the process of also updating our website, Randy will be working with experienced individuals to make the website more user friendly, more visitor friendly and more intuitive.
We are also working on better definitions of terms used by the AED Board. One example is a Soul Mate, and what it means to the AED. A Soul Mate is an individual who desires to give financially to the AED and it’s ministry on a regular basis. These Soul Mates are very important to the future of the AED.
As we look to our financial situation, we are truly grateful to God for His blessings of support over the past years and into the first quarter of 2020. The AED Ministry ended with a positive Net Income of $4,255.45 in 2018. For 2019, the AED ended the year with a positive Net Income of $9,179.39. A big thank you to each of you, who has given so generously.
When the AED Board met with the BAC on March 18, 2020, the BAC shared their great concern for the shortfall that the AED Ministry was experiencing and would possibly be experiencing going forward into 2020. Their projections for 2020 for all AFLC Ministries could potentially experience a shortfall of up to 25% due to 89 the Covid19 Crisis. But, we as a a board remain optimistic that God will call out individuals during this year to provide for this ministry. At the end of the 2019 and into the first quarter of 2020, the AED Ministry has received several substantial gifts.
Over the last several years there has been a concerning discrepancy on the differing numbers presented to the Annual Conference between the AED Financial numbers and what the BAC receives for financial numbers from the financial office. We as a board have been concerned (for several years now) why the differing numbers. Please refer to the following charts for reference.
After consulting with the BAC, we now understand what we need to do with the numbers in our Budget Report to match what is actually occurring with our financials. We are not changing any of the amounts. We are only placing the numbers in their proper places for the BAC to be able to review our reports properly. Please refer to the charts below:
In the past we lumped all of the receipt totals into (Evangelism support/services) line A1. $156,403.00
What should have been in line A1 was only the support given to the AED through AFLC subsidy request. Line B1 $130,106.03
The remainder of line A1 is donations/or offerings/or funds given directly to the AED Board and should have been designated in the additional lines i.e.: A2: Rekindle the fire $8,122.00, A4 Sale of Material $1,197.00, A5 Travel Fund $611.76, A6 Special Projects $1,898.00, A7 Grants $5,233.81
When we put the numbers in their proper places for the BAC to review our budget, it then shows what is actually occurring and shows that we are Line B37 $9,179.39 Net Income.
A B C D RECEIPTS Budget 2019 YTD 2019 YTD Last Year 2018 YTD Budget Variance 1 Evangelism - Support/Services $156,403.00 $130,106.03 $135,765.44 ($26,296.97) 2 Evangelism Gifts - Rekindle the Fire 0 $8,122.00 $1,000.00 $8,122.00 3 Total General Giving $156,403.00 $138,228.03 $136,765.44 ($18,174.97) 4 Sales of Material 0 $1,197.00 $889.50 $1,197.00 5 Travel Fund $0.00 $611.76 $1,180.15 $611.76 6 Special Projects $0.00 $1,898.00 $2,000.00 $1,898.00 7 Grants $0.00 $5,233.81 $6,926.09 $5,233.81 8 Other Revenue & Support $0.00 $8,940.57 $10,995.74 $8,940.57 9 Total Receipts $156,403.00 $147,168.60 $147,761.18 ($9,234.40)
90 A B C D 11 Disbursements Budget 2019 YTD 2019 YTD Last Year 2018 YTD Budget Variance 12 Salary - Secretary $10,500.00 $7,523.86 $9,195.18 ($2,976.14) 13 Salary/Expenses Evangelist $90,000.00 $85,252.60 $87,649.99 ($4,747.40) 14 Ministry Reimbursement $0.00 $11.29 $2,150.45 $11.29 15 401K Contributions $5,500.00 $4,547.27 $4,796.77 ($952.73) 16 Life Insurance $260.00 $181.56 $219.99 ($78.44) 17 LTD Insurance $235.00 $204.36 $219.48 ($30.64) 18 Taxes - Payroll $800.00 $575.96 $702.67 ($224.04) 19 Payroll & Benefits $107,295.00 $98,296.90 $104,934.53 ($8,998.10) 20 Promotional $900.00 $1,150.95 $2,470.77 $250.95 21 Purchase of Books, Etc. $3,000.00 $662.71 $2,108.34 ($2,337.29) 22 RTF $6,000.00 $4,045.20 $5,562.78 ($1,954.80) 23 Director - Travel $8,000.00 $5,791.68 $4,129.02 ($2,208.32) 24 COE - Travel $2,000.00 $1,139.46 $62.89 ($860.54) 25 Special Projects $2,000.00 $1,827.70 $0.00 ($172.30) 26 Program & Promotional $21,900.00 $14,617.70 $14,333.80 ($7,282.30) 27 Insurance $500.00 $222.87 $60.08 ($277.13) 28 Miscellaneous $500.00 $717.51 $441.45 $217.51 29 Postage $700.00 $484.98 $337.40 ($215.02) 30 bldg Subsidy to FG $2,904.00 $2,907.96 $2,825.64 $3.96 31 Suplies - Office $1,000.00 $741.11 $653.01 ($258.89) 32 Telephone $1,800.00 $1,584.26 $1,024.86 ($215.74) 33 Overhead to FG $16,695.00 $15,576.96 $16,038.96 ($1,118.04) 34 Lutheran Ambassador Subsidy $3,109.00 $2,838.96 $2,856.00 ($270.04) 35 General & Administrative $27,208.00 $25,074.61 $24,237.40 ($2,133.39) 36 Total Disbursements $156,403.00 $137,989.21 $143,505.73 ($18,413.79) 37 Net Income or (Loss) $0.00 $9,179.39 $4,255.45 $9,179.39 I would like to take this opportunity to thank Pastor Rich Ramsbaucher for his years of service to the AED Board. In December of 2019, Pastor Rich asked to step down from his position on the board due to health reasons. We praise God for Pastor Rich’s service and that God would heal his physical body and that Rich would feel God’s over whelming love and support for him.
The vacancy on the AED Board has recently been filled. We would like to introduce our newly appointed AED board member, Pastor Jim Ritter. We are excited to have him join the board in April 2020.
We would also like to thank Chris Rasmussen and Liz McCarlson for their secretarial support over the last year and their support as Randy transitions into his new position. They have given Randy much welcomed guidance at the AFLC Headquarters. Thank you also goes out to Chanel Pederson for her great support to the AED Board and Randy with needed AFLC Congregational Information. Thank you also, to Katie Johnson for a wonderful job of providing much needed financial information to our AED Board.
In His Service, Mr. Kevin Hoops, AED Chairman; Mr. Michael Lynnes, Vice Chairman; Mr. Micah Johnson, Secretary; Pastor Matt Quanbeck, Pastor Jim Ritter 91 DIRECTOR OF EVANGELISM & DISCIPLESHIP To the 58th Annual Conference of the Association of Free Lutheran Congregations gathered at the Association Retreat Center in Osceola, WI August 10th through the 12th, 2020. “will not God give justice to His elect, who cry to Him day and night? Will He delay long over them? I tell you, He will give justice to them speedily. Nevertheless, when the Son of Man comes, will He find faith on earth?” Luke 18:7-8 I am thankful for the selection of this theme verse for this year’s Annual Conference as I see very practical application to our situation these days. A text and parable that was given by Jesus to encourage believers to “always pray” and to “not lose heart.” Even when it seems like nothing is happening. Even when it feels like justice is delayed. Even when we feel like the Israelites of Isaiah 40 and say in our hearts, “my way has been hidden from the Lord?” There is no doubt that these have been difficult days, but this text assures us that God is near, that He knows our struggles, and in His time, He will bring justice to our cause, and evidence to our faith and trust in Him. As the new Evangelism and Discipleship Director for the AFLC, it is my desire that our congregations, pastors, and sister ministries would know that we are in this together, and that it is our goal to encourage and strengthen them in their ministries of proclaiming the Good News of Jesus Christ and in equipping the Saints in the work of service, especially in these days when our faith is being tested. Specifically, we are seeking to do this in 3 ways. First, by seeking to build closer relationships with our pastors in the field. As an AFLC pastor of 25 years, I will admit that there were times when I wished that there was a closer connection to our national church body. It is therefore my intent to work to build stronger relationships and partnerships with the pastors serving our congregations around the country. I had intended to begin this by attending our district pastor’s meetings, but due to travel restrictions that has not been possible so far. Until that eases up then I have been calling our AFLC pastors directly to hear what they are facing, to pray with them for wisdom and guidance, and to join with them in looking at ways to equip their congregations to share Christ and to grow in their faith in Him, especially during this crisis. Second, we are seeking to build closer relationships with our congregations, beginning with those that are without pastors, but also seeking to get to know the lay leaders of our AFLC congregations and offering our assistance in helping them fulfill the Great Commission of making and maturing disciples that they might grow up in Christ and ultimately lead and disciple others. This we are also seeking to do through direct phone, email and mail contacts as well as a greater online and social media presence. When the opportunity to travel returns, we will also look to attend regional and national AFLC events as well as accept invitations to visit individual congregations and build those relationships face to face.
92 Third, we are seeking to build closer relationships with our men’s and women’s ministry organizations throughout the AFLC. The strength and heritage of our AFLC is firmly rooted in encouraging and equipping lay men and women to live out their faith in their homes, jobs, community and churches. It is therefore our desire to partner with the various men’s and women’s ministries within our AFLC to do just that. In many ways our culture today has created the false perceptions that our faith should be private and that the teachings of the Bible are antiquated and irrelevant, especially when it comes to gender, marriage, family and sexuality. It will be our growing commitment to reach out to the WMF, and the local men’s and women’s ministry organizations of our AFLC to encourage their important work and to partner with them in developing strategies in equipping their members to grow in their faith that they might more confidently reflect and share Jesus in their lives and community. These specific areas have been on my heart for some time and I was blessed to hear when I shared them with the Evangelism and Discipleship Board during the interview process, that God had been speaking much the same to them. It was also encouraging to hear how they also shared my desire to look for ways to work more in concert with our sister AFLC ministries to avoid overlap and to better serve the AFLC. I have also been blessed to find that as I have discussed this with our sister departments, every leader has expressed that same desire, and we are already looking at ways that we can do just that in the year to come. And so with this clear and shared focus, we look forward to working together to build up our AFLC, as well as sharing these areas of focus on a more personal level as I and our Board have opportunities to visit with individuals, pastors and congregations, along with hearing your thoughts and suggestions as to how this might be accomplished. Finally, while these are clear and specific goals, I am well aware that this battle that we are in is not with flesh and blood, but a spiritual battle that is dependent upon Almighty God. With that knowledge in mind, I am so thankful for the Prayer Warriors who have committed to pray for this ongoing work, and I look forward to getting to know them better through regular prayer updates, and sharing time with them at the foot of the cross. If there are those who would be willing to join us in praying for this Kingdom work, there is a tab on our website (www.aflc.org/evangelism) called Prayer Warriors and you can sign up there. There is also a space there where prayer requests can be received if you would like us lift up a prayer request on your behalf. I am also thankful for the Soul Mates who have pledged monthly support for this ministry. In these difficult times when financial support can drop off it is a real blessing to know that there are those who are committed to giving financially so that this work can continue. We have found that during this time of crisis there is an even greater need for us to be in contact with our churches and pastors, supporting and encouraging them as they are facing an unprecedented season of both demand and opportunity. If you aren’t already, might you consider becoming a Soul Mate and join with us through a monthly financial gift to ensure that resources and support for Evangelism and Discipleship will continue to be available to our AFLC congregations and individuals? If the Lord would lead you to do so, there is a tab at the top of our website (www.aflc.org/evangelism) called Soul 93 Mates and you can sign up there, or you can make a one-time contribution by clicking on the Donate tab on the same page. In closing, I would like to take a moment to thank Pastor Jim Rasmussen for his many years of service to this ministry. If it weren’t for him there might not have been a Commission on Evangelism in our AFLC. We thank you for all that you have done to bring us to this point, and I for one am thankful for the solid foundation you have laid that we will now continue to build upon. I also want to thank our Evangelism and Discipleship Board for all of their support and encouragement. While these first few months have not been the easiest, I can say that I have been Blessed to go through this with these men who clearly love Jesus and are committed to serving Him, even as it takes them out of their comfort zones. I look forward to continue working with them in the years to come as we look with confident expectation in what the Lord has in store for us. This past year, Rev. Rich Ramsbacher was forced to step down from our Board for health reasons, and we want to thank him for his past service to this Board and we pray for God’s healing and strength for him in the days to come. Filling his unexpired term, we are glad to welcome Rev. Jim Ritter and we look forward to his contributions and experience. I would also like to thank Chris Rasmussen and Liz McCarlson for their invaluable assistance in helping me to get my bearings in this new role, they are both quite talented and they have done a great job of making me look better than I am. Above all, I want to thank our Living Savior, Jesus Christ for the great privilege of not only being called to be His son, but also for shaping, equipping, and instilling in me a hunger for this great calling, and I pray for His continued guidance, direction and strength as I seek to fulfill the duties of this office. Respectfully Submitted, Rev. Randy Nelson Director, AFLC Evangelism and Discipleship
94 THE BENEFITS BOARD To the 58th Annual Conference of the Association or Free Lutheran Congregations assembled (Lord willing) at the Association Retreat Center on August 10th-12th, 2020.
The Covid19 has affected all of us in many ways including what we may have been saving. The prior few years had shown growth to which we became accustomed. As with many crisis over the years the rebounds occur in different lengths of time. The best advice is to hold the course and talk to your financial advisor if you are concerned. This has been a wakeup call to ensure that our daily needs are prioritized. The Benefit Board continues to encourage participation by Congregations and Pastors in the AFLC 401K Retirement Plan. The plan allows for immediate participation and nondiscretionary contributions. One of the benefits of this plan is tax free withdrawals during retirements if you can claim distributions as housing. The number of Pastors and Employees with balances are 224. Those in the 401K Plan should log in to the AFLC website for benefit information and to designate beneficiaries. During this last year Help In Service (HIS) was able to assist Pastors and their families in financial needs in 2 situations. The Benefit Board Members with terms are: Rev. Kenneth Moland, North Carolina 2020 Rev. Brad Putnam, Cloquet, MN 2021 Mr. Tony Onnen, Cokato, MN 2022 Mr. Phillip Peterson, Beresford, SD 2023 Mr. James Rolf, Moorhead, MN 2024 Mr. Tom Johnston, Victoria, (Agent)
Respectfully submitted, Tony Onnen for the Benefit Board
95 THE AFLC SCHOOLS BOARD OF TRUSTEES Greetings to the 58th Annual Conference gathered this August 10-12, 2020 at the Association Retreat Center near Osceola, Wisconsin from the Free Lutheran Bible College and Seminary Board of Trustees.
Romans 10:17 says, “Consequently, faith comes from hearing the message, and the message is heard through the word of Christ.” With the theme of the 2020 Annual Conference being “Will He Find Faith?”, it goes without saying how vitally important the preaching and the teaching of God’s Word in all its fullness is. At FLBCS (Free Lutheran Bible College and Seminary) our mission is “to establish students in the eternal and inerrant Word of God for a life of faith in Jesus Christ and faithful service in His Kingdom.” We in the AFLC have been privileged to see the Power of God’s Word change the lives and hearts of people at our schools for over 50 years now. May we continue to be faithful to this mission for each coming year that the Lord tarries! We desire to “Preserve the Core” by understanding our history and core values, those being… -Our strong stand on the Bible—God’s Faithful Word is our foundation. -The Congregation is the right form of the Kingdom of God on earth. -FLBCS are here to serve the AFLC Congregations’ needs by training servant Pastors, and other Christian workers to serve in the Congregation. -For faculty to perform effectively to what they have been called to do— they need to be equipped and focused and prepared to teach according to our Mission and Institutional Objectives. Stated simply we want to keep “The Main Thing….the Main Thing.” We hope to continue doing this by communicating these core values clearly and consistently both internally and externally. One of the benefits of the accreditation process is that it has helped us strengthen these core values. May we be found faithful and unwavering in the midst of uncertain times.
Name Change—Last year at Annual Conference the name change was announced, Free Lutheran Bible College and Seminary (FLBCS). During this past year you may have noticed the new branding with the new logo. The simplicity and focus on God’s Word and the Cross is evident. FLBC may not roll off the tongue as well as AFLBS, but staying true to our core and continuing to let God’s Word drive our courses and curriculum will remain essential.
Student Life Center—As you read this the hope is that this construction will be in full swing. At next year’s Annual Conference we hope to be meeting and making use of this new facility on campus. The prayer is that by next fall it will be completed and be in full use. Thank you for your gifts and prayers in this regard. Also pray that we will be good stewards of the resources we have been given. A special thank you to Mr. Phil Johnson 96 and the building committee members (Ivar Berge, Wanda Jacobson, Jim Rolf, Dave Haugen, Steve Jankord, and Paul Hensrud) for all of their work to help make this a reality. May we be faithful in the use of the new building to God’s glory.
Challenges—Covid-19 has provided a challenge that has been met head on by our school administration, faculty and us as a board. God is faithful and we are thankful for the response of our students and staff. Today another challenge is teaching the Word to a new generation. Our core values do not sway with the trends or fads of the day, nor do they shift and change to the political correctness of the time. Please pray that our Schools will remain faithful to teach the whole counsel of God, Law and Gospel. Along with this comes the challenge to fill our dorms with students and to have men in our seminary classrooms. Please pray for students to answer the call of coming to our two-year Bible College knowing that they can “Start here. Go anywhere. Grounded in God’s Word.” Also, please pray for men to answer the call of the Lord upon their hearts to come and train to be a servant pastor. One of the greatest joys we have as a Board of Trustees is to interview these men throughout their time of seminary training. May we be found faithful in praying these prayers and establishing students in the eternal and inerrant Word of God for a life of faith in Jesus Christ and faithful service in His Kingdom.
Accountability is good. Putting spin on things is not. We would encourage you to ask the straightforward questions of us as a board. If we answer with “just trust us”, that is not sufficient. We should give answers especially when people have concerns. There is usually legitimacy in concerns when God’s people are praying. So let me say something very plainly, “We are not going the way of Golden Valley Lutheran (old Minneapolis LBI).” Please pray that we as a Board of Trustees would stay true to God’s mission for our schools (FLBCS). Please pray that we would seek God’s wisdom in all the decisions and policies that are made in the oversight of our Free Lutheran Bible College and Seminary. Who’s in control? With the theme being “Will He Find Faith?”, I thought it fitting to ask this question. The answer is not the Board of Trustees; it is not the Budget Analysis Committee or Coordinating Committee; and it is not the President of the AFLC. Who is over the congregation? The Word of God and The Spirit of God. Yes, God is in control. What a comfort that brings! May we all be found faithful! Lastly, a special thanks to Rev. Lloyd Quanbeck for his 10 years of service on the Board of Trustees. His leadership and wisdom has been used of God in a very wonderful way.
Members of the Board are…. Chairman—Rev. Todd Erickson (Roseau, MN) Vice-Chairman—Mr. Donald Balmer (Thief River Falls, MN) 97 Secretary—Rev. Alan Arneson (Fosston, MN) Rev. Lloyd Quanbeck (Moorhead, MN) Mr. Dean Nelson (Vergas, MN) Mr. Gary Erickson (Dalton, MN) Mr. Philip Johnson (Esko, MN)
Respectively submitted, Rev. Todd Erickson.
98 PRESIDENT OF THE FREE LUTHERAN SCHOOLS
I tell you, he will give justice to them speedily. Nevertheless, when the Son of Man comes, will he find faith on earth?”” -Luke 18:8 (ESV)
Writing an Annual Conference Report always inspires a bit of trepidation. Those who write do so in March for a conference taking place in June where decisions are made that affect ministry a year in advance. Plus, we tend to not read our reports verbatim. This year, though, the uncertainty has hit new levels. We don’t know when Annual Conference will be held, or what our world will be like when we meet. We are forced to go to Christ and His Word to ask “what can we know for sure?”
This year’s theme verse is easily misinterpreted as defeatist: “Woe is us. It’s so bad that by the time Jesus comes back we will be the only Christians left.” But that’s not the point at all.
In context, Luke 18:8 becomes a call to hope. If a self-seeking judge will give in to a persistent widow, how much more will the all-loving Creator God answer generously to those who pray? We don’t know what lies ahead, but we know that God Himself is there. He has created us in His image, redeemed us through the blood of His Son, and called us to Himself through the gospel. We are not victims, but God’s chosen, vocational means by which He reaches precious, eternal human souls with salvation. This is our finest hour.
We don’t know what lies ahead, but we trust in the One who walks with us. This is faith. In difficult times we are left to wonder if Jesus, when He returns, will find faith on the earth. Some of that, by the grace and provision of God, is up to us. Will we shrink when shaken, or stand on the unshakable foundation of God, His work, and His word?
We have had a great year on the campus of the Free Lutheran Bible College and Seminary. We establish students in the eternal and inerrant Word of God, for a life of faith in Jesus Christ and faithful service in His kingdom. About 100 students from all over the country and many points around the globe learn in the two-year postsecondary Bible College program, and 22 students studied in the Seminary. Graduates of the Seminary joined approximately three dozen new pastors who have come out of our pastoral training program in the past five years.
Many of you have benefited from this training yourselves. Most of you benefit from those who have gone on to lead in your congregations. And almost all of us have been impressed with the way our pastors have led our congregations in the tenuous months around the COVID-19 crisis.
This year brought a lot of positive change on campus. Pastor Adam Osier is now completing his first year of serving as FLBC Dean. He has done a great job, and he and his family are a welcome addition to campus life. Construction began on the Student Life Center last fall, and will resume in the next several 99 days. You can find the latest updates on our web site at www.flbc.edu. And we are almost done rebranding as “Free Lutheran Bible College and Seminary,” a helpful decision made at last year’s Schools Corporation meeting.
Our student body, faculty, staff, and administration are all focused on our mission and honed for effectiveness and efficiency. While we are in a season of difficult decisions, difficult decisions are part of our everyday practice. In many ways, difficult decisions by our Corporation, the Board of Trustees, and our staff have put us in a position to thrive, not just survive, our recent trials.
Some of these decisions were anticipated, and others were not. By the time you read this, Eric Christenson will have begun his job as Facilities Director. He joins our team as Wayne Floan enters retirement after many years of faithful service. We love Wayne and Karen, and will miss them dearly. The Board of Trustees made the difficult decision in March to discontinue the position of Vice President of Academic Affairs as a stand-alone position. Unfortunately, that means Dr. Mark Olson’s time on campus has ended. Dr. Olson did more than anyone to bring us to accreditation, but the decision was made that in this season the role could be accomplished as a function of the remaining faculty and administration. Dr. Olson is a friend and cherished co-worker who will be missed. Perhaps more than anything, his love for the city we call home, and its diverse population, was an inspiration to us all.
In this time of uncertainty we remain focused on our mission. None of us know what comes next, but at FLBC we prepare students with a foundation for whatever comes next. At FLS we prepare students to serve as servant pastors in free and living Lutheran congregations. There is no shortcut to pastoral training. We push them hard and teach them to serve well.
In both programs, we rely on excellent academic instruction complemented by in-person, on-campus interaction where students apply in-person what they learn in the classroom. Right now people all around us are starved for human interaction, and while we are thankful for the conveniences of technology, more than ever we recognize the need to do ministry face to face and in person. We invest as much in the discipleship learning community portion of our Bible College program as we do the academic side, and students and families in the Seminary receive outside-of-class instruction and support that helps prepare them for a life of congregational ministry.
Having nurtured the root of good ministry these past years, we come to a time of refining, where the fruit of that nurtured root will be tested. Our future is secure in Christ, and we have plans for continued ministry that account for a year of financial downturn and possible additional medical interruption. At this point, you should anticipate no difference in service to our students, and no negative consequences to our employees for the 2020-2021 school year. We are exercising wisdom in stewarding the resources God has given to us, and setting our sites on the next months and years of economic and public health recovery. We see opportunity through the hardship.
100 Our commitment to you stands firm. Our focus remains on the forgiveness of sins purchased by the life, death, and resurrection of our Lord Jesus Christ. We will make the most of every dollar given to the Bible College and Seminary. We will make the most of time you invest in our ministries. We will not waste your time with low-value communication or exaggerated pleas. We stand in service to the local congregation, and alongside other valuable ministries both inside and outside of the AFLC.
Please know this: We will steward the mission, facilities, and people whom God has given us to carry out this ministry, along with the students whom we serve. We will respect the congregations and people of the AFLC. We will invest sacrificially in the lives of our students. We will do hard things when necessary. We won’t take shortcuts or make decisions for the sake of appearance.
I am thankful to God for our dedicated faculty and staff. They are listed near this report, as are the Board of Trustees. They serve sacrificially and govern well. They are a supportive lot.
Our outgoing board member, Pastor Lloyd Quanbeck, has been a loyal friend for years. He has always been willing to correct me, and is able to do so in a way that also makes his support clear. He is a wise man and a good leader. We thank Lloyd for his ten years of service on the Board of Trustees, including two years as chair, and several as a regular adjunct faculty member.
I am thankful for the great team I enjoy working with every day. They each oversee a specific area of our ministry: Dr. Mark Olson, VP of Academic Affairs Mr. Larry Myhrer, VP of Operations Pastor Adam Osier, FLBC Dean Dr. James Molstre, FLS Dean (and Chief Academic Officer going forward)
Mr. Josh Johnson also reports to me, and has filled a full-time position in part-time hours, overseeing recruiting, admissions, and communications while he studies full-time in seminary. He is an accomplished manager with wisdom beyond his years.
And Mrs. Sherry Mork, who is a trusted advisor as she serves as my Executive Assistant. Sherry is both accomplished and experienced at her work in donor relations, modeling integrity in all that she does. I couldn’t do what I do without her.
Finally, I thank God for an understanding family. My wife of 20 years, Michele (Deubner) is God’s gift to me, and our children Hannah and Ben (both currently 10) are joyful partners in ministry. They benefit more than they know from meeting amazing people as a regular part of their lives. Their view of God’s Big Kingdom has benefited from our time together on campus.
None of this would be possible without you who give, pray, and support 101 the ministry of the Bible College and the Seminary. God is working through you, and the mission of FLBCS is working. Thanks be to God, and thanks to you.
Next year on campus in Plymouth, MN, Pastor Wade Mobley President, Free Lutheran Bible College and Seminary
We highly appreciate each one of our teachers, staff members, and board members that lovingly and sacrificially served during the 2019/2020 academic year in the ministry of the AFLC Schools. Together these employees and board members enhance the student experience through support, dedication, and commitment to the mission of the schools.
Board of Trustees: Full and Part-Time Staff: Rev. Alan Arneson Andrew Abel Mr. Don Balmer Diana Alverson Rev. Todd Erickson Aaron Arneson Mr. Dean Nelson Brad Bierle Mr. Gary Erickson Sarah Bierle Rev. Lloyd Quanbeck Eric Christenson Mr. Philip Johnson Marian Christopherson Caitlin Curtice Chester Dyrud Full and Part-Time Faculty: Jean Erickson Mr. Andrew Abel Scott Erickson Dr. Brad Bierle Wayne Floan Dr. Oliver Blosser Michelle Franz Rev. Brett Boe Ruth Gunderson Mrs. Marian Christopherson Cody Halverson Mr. Andrew Hanson Caleb Holt Dr. Phil Haugen Emily Johnson Rev. Jason Holt Josh Johnson Rev. Phillip Hooper Marilee Johnson Rev. Robert Lee Dalton Jordahl Rev. Jerry Moan Alisha Kneeland Mrs. Rebecca Moan Eli Kuphal Rev. Wade Mobley Emily Kregel Dr. James Molstre Rebecca Moan Rev. Stephen Mundfrom Rachel Molstre Rev. Brent Olson Sherry Mork Dr. Mark Olson Larry Myhrer Dr. Nathan Olson Heather Olson Rev. Adam Osier Michael Onstad Rev. Lloyd Quanbeck Rachel Papillon Olivia Pavlish Matt Petschl Rachel Ryerson Katie Strand Haley Thramer Patrick VandenBos
102 DEAN OF THE SEMINARY To the 58th Annual Conference of the Association of Free Lutheran Congregations assembled at the ARC, August 10-12, 2020. The conference theme, “Will He find Faith?”, is taken from the text in Luke 18:8, “I tell you, he will give justice to them speedily. Nevertheless, when the Son of Man comes, will he find faith on the earth?” The context for this verse is the parable of the persistent widow. The parable culminates with this statement by Jesus: “And will not God give justice to his elect, who cry to him day and night?” The answer to the question Jesus poses is a resounding yes! As we consider the past 58 years of AFLC history, we also acknowledge that God is faithful and has promised He will be faithful. This year, the Free Lutheran Seminary (FLS) instructed 22 students. Ten were graduated in May; five are currently on internship; three will be Seniors in the fall; four will be Middlers; and we look forward to God’s provision for our incoming Junior class. It has been a privilege to be the Seminary Dean and to invest in the lives of these 22 men. God has been doing a great work in our seminary. I am especially pleased that, between this year and next year, we will have 14 men prepared to go into parish ministry in the AFLC. These men will have gone through a rigorous four- year program emphasizing exegetical theology (the study of God’s Word), as it relates to the pastoral ministry in the local congregation. This four- year residential program is not easy, it isn’t expedient, but it is, in my opinion, the best way to prepare pastors for the rigors of congregational ministry. Among the many responsibilities of the Seminary Dean are program development and review, classroom instruction, soul care, and connecting with future seminarians. Program review is a continual process. With the help of faculty, former and current students, I have continued to evaluate the effectiveness of the seminary program. Asking questions such as, what was helpful? Were there redundancies in the coursework? What could be improved? Students and course instructors have been able to give invaluable feedback which has made the program more effective. The goal is that by the power and direction of God, our students are prepared to be parish pastors. Our emphasis is on the in-depth study of God’s Word, Old and New Testaments. Our desire is also that our students have a personal relationship with Jesus Christ, and that their hearts are controlled by the Spirit. The best Pastor is the one who loves his congregation and is concerned about the condition of their soul. The AFLC Dean is considered a faculty position, and I teach about six credits each semester. This past school year I had the privilege of teaching hermeneutics, expository preaching, pastoral theology, discipleship, ministerial acts, and preaching/public speaking in the Bible College. It 103 has been a joy to interact with the students in the Seminary and the Bible College. I have seen in our students a hunger to learn and to grow as future pastors in the AFLC. I have especially enjoyed times of mentorship and fellowship with our seminary students. This is one of the decided strengths of having a residential program. The students are able to interact one on one with their professors, who have had extensive experience in the congregation as a pastor. This interaction includes discussion during class time, informal discussions during coffee breaks, and lunch with the dean. It is during these times that we are able to get to know the men, mentor them, and, by God’s grace, prepare them. The residential program also allows for relationships to grow between the men and their families. Relationships are being built that will last a lifetime. Proverbs 27:17, “As iron sharpens iron, so one man sharpens another.” God is the one who calls men into the ministry. Would you pray with us for more men? I would love to meet with anyone who is interested and feels the call of God to prepare for ministry. If you know of anyone who may be struggling with God’s call on their life, have them give me a call. We continue to praise God for the generosity of Mike Anenson and Emmaus Lutheran Church, providing the Israel experience for all of the seminarians. This year, five of our six seniors traveled to Israel, with Mike Anenson as their guide free of charge. The men have experienced a once in a lifetime trip to walk where Jesus walked. It has been exciting to listen to the men tell us their Israel stories. They will never be the same. Thank you Mike Anenson, and thank you Emmaus Lutheran Church. Our full-time faculty includes Pastor Jerry Moan, Pastor Steve Mundfrom, and Pastor Brent Olson. Pastor Robert Lee, Pastor Wade Mobley, and Dr. Mark Olson teach part-time. It has been a pleasure serving with these men. They are Godly, dedicated, and determined that our seminarians appreciate the nature of the calling to which they have been called. These men teach the inerrant Word of God and apply it to the pastoral calling in each of their classes. They are able to do so because they themselves have been parish pastors. I am also thankful for our adjunct professors this past year: Dr. Phil Haugen, Dr. Blosser, and Dr. Nathan Olson, Marian Christopherson and our gifted Music director and teacher, Andrew Hanson. In addition to their regular teaching schedule on campus, Pastor Jerry Moan, Pastor Steve Mundfrom, and Pastor Brent Olson are pursuing doctoral degrees. Jerry Moan and Steve Mundfrom: Doctor of Ministry degrees; and Brent Olson: a Ph.D. I am also thankful for Pastor Wade Mobley and Dr. Mark Olson. Pastor Mobley has a passion for God’s word and for precious souls. He is a strong leader, an encouragement, and a good friend and confidant to me. We are blessed to have Pastor Mobley as president during these difficult times. I 104 am also thankful for Dr. Mark Olson. His work in accreditation has been invaluable. He has been a great encouragement to me and will be missed.
Marilee Johnson has been a great blessing to me. She has a heart for ministry, which she shows in a variety of ways, including hosting the many events we have at the Seminary, taking seminary wives for coffee, and lending a sympathetic ear.
Thankful for you! I am so thankful for you the people of our AFLC. It is through your generous gifts that we are able to provide scholarships that greatly help our men afford the costs of tuition and housing. Thank you to the Women’s Missionary Federation and their commitment to pray and financially support our seminary. Thank you to the generous churches willing to take an intern and to the supervising pastors. You are doing an essential part of seminary training. This year we needed five churches for our five interns. God supplied once again by raising up pastors and churches willing to share with the seminary in the training of men for ministry. I also want to thank the Board of Trustees for the many hours of faithful service and dedication to the schools. They have provided leadership, wisdom, and Godly counsel this past year; we are blessed to have such servants of God.
Please pray for our recent graduates: Ganzorig Enkhjargal, Kevin Hall, David Handsaker, Micah Klemme, Andrew Kneeland, Brian Lunn, Bryce McMinn, Seth Moan, Erin Tormanen, and Brian Westerbur.
Pray for our Interns: Joe Dombrowski, Lance Morrison, Michael Onstad, Kyle Smith, and Patrick Vandenbos.
Pray for our Seniors: Scott Erickson, Joshua Johnson, and Sam Willard. Pray for our Middlers: Joe Frech, Joe Larson, Jeremy Nikunen, James Pierson, and Alex Woodworth.
And pray for our incoming class, that God would prepare them to study for this important work of ministry. Respectfully submitted, Dr. James Molstre Seminary Dean
105 DEAN OF THE BIBLE COLLEGE To the 58th annual conference of the Association of Free Lutheran Congregations assembled at the Association Retreat Center in Osceola, WI, August 10-12: 7 And will not God give justice to his elect, who cry to him day and night? Will he delay long over them? 8 I tell you, he will give justice to them speedily. Nevertheless, when the Son of Man comes, will he find faith on earth?” (Luke 18:7-8, ESV) Will he find faith? Our theme question at the end of verse 8 is found in the context of the persistent and aggressive prayers of the faithful when they are up against tremendous opposition. We must not miss both the law and gospel in passage. The law is the question. Will those upon the earth have the faith to call to him in their need? The gospel is found in the object of that faith, the ever-attentive Father who speedily, mercifully, and powerfully addresses the cries of all those who call upon him. When we proclaim the Father’s care, specifically through the love he has shown us in Christ, we are acting as God’s instruments to ensure that faith will indeed be found upon the earth. As Paul says in Romans 10:17, faith comes through hearing the Word of Christ. That remains the heart of the mission of the Free Lutheran Bible College— to proclaim God’s Word to continuing generations of students, who in turn will be trained to do the same. My first year as dean has certainly been an eventful and unusual one. Many changes have marked this time—a new name, staff changes, a new building project begun, a new pandemic, and thus a new method of delivering content to students. But one thing has not changed, and that is the faithfulness of God to our campus, as well as to me personally. We started the year with an enrollment of 100 students, 39 second-year students and 61 first-year students. This was an encouraging increase over last year, and a trend that, by God’s grace and notwithstanding the current pandemic’s effects, will continue. In part, this is thanks to the many contacts being made by our admissions and recruiting team, yet more importantly to God’s work of drawing students to devote two years to a focused study of his Word. That many students continue to desire this is proof that indeed, the faith is still preserved among us by the working of the Holy Spirit. In discouraging, difficult, and uncertain times, we cannot forget this, and we must thank God for it. Students come to hear a Word that produces life. Accordingly, they are trained in a robust curriculum of exegetical, systematic, historical, and practical courses by our faithful full-time and adjunct faculty. Since my time in seminary (not all that long ago), the faculty and adjunct faculty has changed significantly, but their commitment to the inspired, inerrant, and infallible Word of God has not changed. Their faithfulness to draw from the text of Scripture the unfiltered law and Christ-only gospel is central to our program. They are careful to show that while we bring nothing to the salvation table, Christ has more than all we need for salvation and our motivation for our service in him. I have seen in our faculty a 106 desire and effort to bring that Word to the students in new and fresh ways, while remaining faithful to the text. They have eschewed complacency, and maintained humble and teachable hearts, willing to learn and grow themselves. In the face of this unique year, their spirit of servant leadership shined especially brightly, and I thank God for them. The students also come to let God’s Word equip them for life. Our stated mission is to establish students in the eternal, inerrant, inspired, and infallible Word of God for a life of faith and service in his kingdom. Our goal is to send workers into the harvest (Matthew 9:38). We want them to be prepared for that harvest work. This year, the vast majority (~90%) of our students were involved in some sort of ministry while on campus. Sometimes this was through school-sponsored ministries. Our gospel teams consist of worship teams and various other singing groups, puppet and drama ministries, nursing home ministries, sports ministry and summer team VBS and camp ministries. Others are involved in ministries similar to these within their local congregations and within the greater Minneapolis community. But not only this, our students are shown from God’s Word how vocational ministry encompasses their whole life. In their relationships, jobs, and community involvement, they are to be faithful witnesses to the goodness and faithfulness of the Savior who rescued them from their sin and granted them eternal life. It’s been encouraging to speak with students about the callings that God has given them for their lives. This year I’ve spoken with young men feeling the call to go into full-time pastoral ministry, as well as many others feeling led to overseas missions or other opportunities to serve their churches. I’ve also spoken with the students about how God can use them in their ordinary vocational callings. To see God equipping servants for his kingdom has been the pinnacle of my first year. In contrast to that pinnacle, the end of this year, from an earthly point of view, was a very disappointing one. Having to suspend in-person classes on March 16th and transition to online-only instruction stole from our students the critical residential component of our program. More than ever, I am convinced that while many schools and colleges are transitioning to online programs, that model is inimical to the FLBC program. This isn’t because we couldn’t accomplish adequate online instruction. I’m convinced we could do that just fine, and the Word can and does work through those means. But the community discipleship component is vital to accomplish our mission of training leaders for service in God’s kingdom, specifically within the local congregation. Congregational ministry, for which we train them, isn’t intended to be carried out in an online vacuum. Congregations are for congregating. They are for coming together to be served by God’s gifts, and for serving alongside and encouraging one another in ministry. While FLBC isn’t a congregation, a point on which I feel quite strongly, it is an opportunity for disciples of Christ to learn to live in community with other believers. It’s part of what makes us unique. It shows us what it means to learn from the Word together. It shows us what it looks like to work alongside one another. It teaches us to minister to the hurting in a way that extends beyond the limits of online interaction. It teaches us the importance and nuance of face-to-face communication. It allows us to see how to biblically respond when we’ve been wronged, or what to do when we’ve wronged another. It teaches the art of collaboration in ministry. It’s the “lab” or “clinical” portion of our program. It’s the living out together 107 what we’ve learned together in class. For these reasons, FLBC has had and must continue to have an intentional community discipleship component. And, as anecdotally seen through this pandemic, it’s exactly why most of our students choose FLBC. Our student-life staff shines at facilitating this, and they only continue, by God’s working in and through them, to improve. In closing, I would ask you to persistently remember FLBC in your prayers. As Luke 18:1-8 shows us, we have a God who is not only willing to listen to our prayers but desires them. He wants us to be aggressive and persistent in our requests to him, and he promises swiftly to answer. Specifically, I ask that you join us in our prayer for God to plant a strong desire for his Word in the hearts of young people today. Societally, we have just emerged from a season in which young people have been stripped of many of the world’s distractions and faced with questions concerning eternity. Pray that God would use FLBC to minister to those asking these questions though the life-giving power of his Word, and that our congregations would be effective in promoting this option. Pray for us as we continue to review our program that God would lead us to sharpen our delivery of the truth of his Word to our students. Pray, as for all the ministries of our AFLC, that in these uncertain times. God would meet all of our needs with his power that is able to provide exceedingly abundantly more than we could ever ask or think (Eph. 3:20). In so doing, we leave all answers in the capable hands of our loving father, in whom we can trust, and through whom we carry on. Respectfully Submitted, Rev. Adam Osier Dean of the Free Lutheran Bible College.
108 VICE PRESIDENT OF OPERATIONS AFLC SCHOOLS To the Fifty-eighth Annual Conference of the Association of Free Lutheran Congregations gathered in Osceola, WI. Jeremiah 29:11: states “For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the LORD, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” We are so grateful to the congregations, individuals, parents, and students who generously contribute to the Free Lutheran Bible College & Seminary (FLBCS). We could not exist without all the prayers and support we receive every day. The proposed FLS budget for the 2020-2021 fiscal years is $570,813. This includes a tuition increase of $500 per year. The proposed FLBC budget for the same period is $2,769,060. This includes a $150 increase in tuition, a $125 increase in room charges, and a $125 increase in meal plan charges per year. Based on these projected budgets, the Board of Trustees request the Annual Conference to approve a subsidy for the 2021 calendar year of $280,756 for the Seminary and $537,477 for the Bible College. As of December 31, 2019, the FLBCS has approximately $1.37 million in scholarship and endowment Funds that are used to provide financial assistance to Seminary and Bible College students. During the ’19-’20 school year, $124,008 was disbursed for FLS Scholarships and $106,800 was disbursed for FLBC Scholarships. As always, we would like to extend a big thank you to the WMF. Through their generous financial support, we continue to buy new furniture for the men’s and women’s dorms. Their gifts have allowed us to purchase new desks, chairs, dressers, bookcases, and bunk beds for our students to enjoy. As we look towards 2021, the AFLC Schools are committed to continue using our financial resources to train servant leaders, increase enrollment at both Schools, and pursue academic excellence. Additional information about the FLBCS financials is available in the 2020 Annual Report and also by request. More information on the Student Life Center Capital Campaign and our endowments are available online and at our Conference booth. Respectfully Submitted, Larry S. Myhrer Vice President of Operations FLBCS
109 WORLD MISSIONS COMMITTEE CHAIRMAN To the 58th Annual Conference of the Association of Free Lutheran Congregations, assembled at the Association Retreat Center, Osceola, Wisconsin, August 10-12, 2020.
As this report is written our world is dealing with the coronavirus and the pandemic resulting from it. Many are gripped by fear and much uncertainty exists. The virus has exposed the weakness and limitations of the human race. It makes all the more clear the great need of missions. Hope is found in Christ alone. He alone offers the peace people so desperately need. “Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you” (John 14:27). People all over the world need to hear the good news of Jesus that brings peace with God and peace to the soul, no matter what is going on in the world. To a world that is fearfully dealing with uncertainty we bring good news that is certain and true and life-giving. We believe the best way to do missions is by planting and building up free and living Lutheran congregations. This is what we strive to do all around the world. More than ever, in this fearful world, people of every ethnic group, language and culture need to be part of a congregation where the good news of Jesus is proclaimed and the love of Christ is shared. We give thanks for our missionaries around the world who are involved in planting and building up congregations. Their ministry is supported through the personal support part of our department. Individuals and congregations are encouraged to pray for individual missionaries and give to their financial support as God has enabled them. The missionaries are encouraged to maintain contact with those supporters and let them know of prayer needs and items of praise. We believe personal support is a means of strengthening connection between individuals and congregations and the missionaries. As new missionaries have gone out it has been encouraging to see them develop new contacts and new supporters and expand the overall base of support for the work of the AFLC. In some parts of the world it is difficult, and sometimes impossible, to send resident missionaries. We are still called, however, to serve Christians and congregations in those areas. One way we can do that is by sending pastors and teachers to teach short-term courses in those countries. Most countries of the world do not have anywhere close to the opportunity for biblical training that we have in the United States. Congregations are often pastored by men who have a sincere heart for the Lord and a desire to serve Him and His church, but they have not had many educational opportunities. They often serve congregations that have very limited financial resources and cannot afford to pay their pastor much. Please pray for these national pastors around the world.
We are in the process of furthering developing our program of sending teachers to teach short-term classes in other parts of the world. We are 110 responding to requests we have received from other countries who long for pastoral training in God’s Word. Sending teachers to other countries to teach these classes is not a budgeted item. We ask teachers to raise their own support. We are developing a fund that people and congregations can give to in order to help ones who are going to teach.
We are requesting a budget subsidy for 2021 of $432,000.00 for World Missions and $762,000.00 for Personal Support. Steve Deysher’s term on the committee is expiring. He was appointed to serve the final part of Lyle Mattson’s term. Steve is eligible for reelection. Rev. David Nelson’s term on the Missions corporation is expiring this year. He must be re-elected to the corporation if he is going to continue serving on the World Missions committee. We give thanks to the Lord for our World Missions Director Earl Korhonen and his wife Joan and their great service to our work of world missions. We are very thankful for Wanda Jacobson, our office manager, who serves our department in a wonderful variety of ways. We deeply appreciate Jon Nelson and his wife Heidi and the special service they give to our Journey Missions department, leading short-term mission trips and serving missionary assistants and serving World Missions in a number of other ways as well. Thanks for being a great team to work with. We give thanks to all those who pray for the work of AFLC World Missions and give of their time and resources to support the work in all kinds of different ways. Thank you for your service. While we may live in uncertain days, we give thanks we can be confident God is at work, all over the world, building up His Church and spreading the good news of Jesus. Respectfully submitted, Rev. Craig Johnson World Missions Committee chairman
111 THE WORLD MISSIONS DIRECTOR To the Fifty-Eighth Annual Conference of the Association of Free Lutheran Congregations, meeting August 10-12, 2020 at the Association Retreat Center. Do you remember the childhood joy of discovering an echo? Perhaps it was shouting through a culvert under a driveway or into a canyon on a family vacation. Cartoonists have cleverly turned echoes into entertainment by illustrating shouts with unexpected answers. But an echo that doesn’t match the original sound is fraudulent. When “Hello!” is echoed back with “Who is it?” there is an imposter involved. The call and response of a genuine echo can illustrate what Jesus is teaching in our conference theme verse, Luke 18:8, “Will He find faith?” Here, Jesus’ question about finding faith is in the context of the Second Coming. This verse follows the parable of the unrighteous judge which punctuates the vital link between faith and prayer. People with faith in Jesus pray. When people of faith don’t care about prayer, it begs us to question if the faith is genuine. Are we people of prayer, or has an imposter infiltrated our hearts? In the ongoing Covid-19 global pandemic, we are in a desperate need. And as people of faith in Jesus, we must be fervent in prayer for the physical need but our love for the Savior ought to also draw us to our knees in prayer for the spiritual needs or our world. We have a great promise in our text: Jesus will return! But we also have a great warning, “Will He find faith?” May we be found faithful in prayer through this current crisis and until Jesus returns! The World Mission Committee has spent time at each of their quarterly meetings discussing the one, three, and five-year goals that have been encouraged by the Budget Analysis Committee. Our goals and our purpose of planting free and living Lutheran congregations on our mission fields are helping us set our priorities. We take our first AFLC Fundamental Principle seriously: “According to the Word of God, the congregation is the right form of the kingdom of God on earth.” Our mission work ought to reflect the priority of the congregation—both to establish congregations and then to encourage them to carry on the work of the Kingdom of God. I ask you to join us in prayer for wisdom as we seek to fulfill our calling with the resources entrusted to us by the congregations. As we reflect on our AFLC world missions in 2019, we look toeach country and survey the active faith of our mission work. Brazil In Brazil, our oldest mission field, there are 18 congregations and two preaching points. AFLC World Missions has three called missionary families and one single woman serving in Brazil. Paul & Becky Abel have their home adjacent to the ARCA Bible Camp in Batias. They have been in the United States on furlough since August 2019 and plan to return to Brazil after the AFLC Annual Conference in June. Jonathan & Tamba Abel continue to devote their time to serving the congregation in Maringá, and Jonathan teaches two days per week at the seminary an hour away in Campo Mourão. Because of the pandemic and restrictions of large gatherings, Jonathan has adjusted to preaching and 112 teaching through online media. Jonni Sliver was home in the United States for a short furlough December- February as a requirement to renew her two-year visa for working in Brazil. She returned to Brazil shortly before the travel restrictions were implemented in Brazil for the Covid-19 pandemic. Pray for her work at the Miriam Children’s home at the Campo Mourão Bible school and seminary campus. During 2019 Jonni was once again key to making the Short Term Assistant program a success as she had extra responsibilities as an advisor for the young ladies who desired to help at the children’s home. John & Hannah Lee are living in Batias at Paul & Becky’s home while they are on furlough. They continue their language training and are looking forward to a short furlough later in 2020. Upon their return to Brazil, they plan to move to the SETELL Bible School and seminary campus, where John is scheduled to take on some teaching responsibilities.
India In India, the AFLC-India national workers are living out their faith through the ministry of the local congregations. The 56 congregations, 38 pastors, and 11 Bible women have ministries that include the Horeb Children’s home, AFLC-I Tutorial Centers, Gospel meetings, theological training school, and the food and relief ministry. AFLC-I Tutorial Centers. In June, 2019 the St. Paul’s School (Supported by AFLC Canada) in Chirala was forced to close because of increased government regulations. The new requirements caused many private schools to close because they failed to meet strict guidelines for playground requirements and additional teacher certifications. Also, the school could not compete with the financial incentive offered by the government of a month’s wages for the parents of each student who would enroll in the government school. After a season of intensified prayer, the AFLC-I leadership decided to sponsor tutorial centers in the AFLC-I congregations. There are now 30 Tutorial centers in the congregations ministering to 10- 40 children in their before and after school programs. We are grateful to the Lord’s provision for this new ministry. Previously, the St. Paul’s school had an attendance of 180 students, but now the tutorial centers are reaching hundreds of children with the same resources. Horeb Children’s Home. It was a joy to meet many of the 24 children at the Horeb Children’s home this past year. The children come from impoverished homes where in many cases, one or both parents have died. We continue to need new and replacement sponsors at $40 per month. Joan Korhonen is the new Horeb Home US coordinator, and she would love to share more details about how you can be involved in this ministry. Theological Training. Ambassador Institute continues to have a vital ministry of outreach and training for the congregations in India. There has also been a new theological center opened at the AFLC-I compound in Chirala. As I mentioned above, the government of India is increasing its control over non-profit organizations in India- often implementing regulations with little or no warning. Pastor Luther, the AFLC-I president, is preparing for the likely increase of regulations upon religious workers and pastors in India. The government may soon require credentials for 113 the pastors, so Pastor Luther and the leadership have been aggressively training the pastors and laypeople to provide theological training degrees. The theological training classes meet two weeks out of each month. Another goal for the theological training is to prepare the men and women to take the Gospel to the unreached villages. Please pray for this important ongoing work in AFLC-India. Food and Relief Fund. Our World Mission Committee continues to see the importance of providing $200.00 per month to the congregations in India for their food and relief projects. This fund continues to be of great value both in meeting the physical needs of the people, and also as an effective way to communicate the Gospel. We are grateful for this fund and for the accountability Pastor Luther and Emmanuel provide to these resources. It is expected that there will be a growing need for this ministry as the country of India deals with the effects of the pandemic. Mexico Our work in Mexico is primarily in three cities: Jerez, León, and Celaya. Todd and Barb Schierkolk are now in their 20th year in Jerez. They continue to build up the congregation through children’s ministry and discipleship opportunities. They were encouraged this past year by having three families continue after their Vacation Bible School week. Our partners in ministry in Leon and Celaya serve under the name Central Mexican Lutheran Church (CMLC). The president of CMLC is Pastor Milton Flores. He and his extended family minister to the two congregations and two outreach points in nearby cities. The work has become increasingly difficult due to drug trafficking and the resulting violence. Please pray for ongoing wisdom for the congregations in Mexico. Uganda The AFLC work in Uganda continues through three called missionary families and one single man. The majority of the ministry is through leadership training for the classes of our Ambassador Institute (AI) oral training materials. Nate and Rhoda Jore are ministering in the countryside about 45 minutes north of Jinja. Nate directs the Uganda Ambassador Institute and has been advising and training leaders for a congregation in the village of Nabukosi. There have been several baptisms and participants in the Lord’s supper this past year. Micah & Famke Berger both struggle with health issues and are seeking to leave Uganda as soon as Famke and their daughter receive their Unites States Visas. Brent and Emily Raan devote their time to Ambassador Institute and have been evaluating areas to plant a church. Following their 2020 furlough, they will decide where to locate in Uganda. Michael Rokenbrodt also trains leaders in Ambassador Institute. As an effort to become a church planter, he has enrolled in our Free Lutheran Seminary for the fall semester of 2020. He plans to continue his mission work in Uganda every-other semester from his seminary studies.
114 Our future work in Uganda will be facing higher demands from the government on non-profit organizations. All non-profits must show some benefit to the Ugandan people. It appears that the simplest way to prove this is for our Ambassador Institute to be involved in some humanitarian work alongside their ministry. The World Mission Committee has approved a special project for providing micro-loans for agricultural projects. We pray that this will meet the humanitarian benefit that the government is requiring at each renewal of our missionary work permits. Switzerland Since 2018, our work in Switzerland has been a working agreement between AFLC World Missions, the Brazil AFLC (AILLB), and the El Shaddai congregation of Geneva, Switzerland. Augusto Fuiri continues to serve the congregation in Geneva. They are praying that the Lord would supply them with a full-time AFLC pastor from either the US or Brazil. Paraguay Matthew & Ednay Abel are close to completing their Guaraní language training in Luque, Paraguay. They plan to take a short furlough to visit supporters in the US before moving to a village where there is an opportunity to plant a congregation. Mongolia The World Mission committee continues to fulfill the requests for closer fellowship with Mongolian Lutheran Church. Some AFLC pastors and AFLTS seminary faculty have agreed to teach short-term courses at the Bible School in Mongolia. We are planning to investigate the feasibility of an English language camp. And we have helped sponsor a student from Mongolia to study at our Free Lutheran Seminary. Ambassador Institute The ministry of Ambassador Institute continues in India and Uganda by training pastors and laypeople in God’s Word. Ambassador Institute in India is focusing on working within the AFLC-I congregations as discipleship and evangelism tools.
In Uganda, the work of Ambassador Institute (AI) is under Nate Jore. He devotes one-third of his ministry time to training the Ambassador Institute leadership team. As government regulations increase, it is becoming increasingly important to make the AI zones financially independent and self-sustaining. For this reason, they have established micro-loans for agricultural projects in different zones. Receipts from these small businesses will fund AI expenses and training. Journey Missions The Journey Missions department has continued to provide short-term assistants, student mission trips, and intergenerational mission trips to our AFLC World Mission fields. Please pray for this ministry, and Jon Nelson, the department head, as they navigate the upcoming year in the midst of the travel restrictions that have been put in place because of COVID-19. Journey Missions hosted two trips in 2019: Nogales Ministry Trip – Jan 21-28, 2019 Israel Ministry Trip – November 4 – 15, 2019 115 2019 Short Term Assistants: Katrina Nielsen, Brazil Emily Olson, Mexico Derek Perry, Uganda Ruth Peterson, Paraguay & Brazil Kendra Schapp, Uganda Kirstie Schierkolk, Concordia’s Around the World Program Seth Skogerboe, Ecuador & Condordia’s Around the World Program
Statistics Missionaries Called Paul and Becky Abel Brazil Jonathan and Tamba Abel Brazil John and Hannah Lee Brazil Jonni Sliver Brazil
Matthew and Ednay Abel Paraguay
Micah and Famke Berger Uganda Nate and Rhoda Jore Uganda Brent and Emily Raan Uganda Michael Rokenbrodt Uganda
Todd and Barb Schierkolk Mexico
On Loan Steve and Glenda Kvale Wycliffe, USA Andrew and Alexis Olson Lutheran Bible Translators, Tanzania Joshua and Ruth Wagner Lutheran Bible Translators, Sierra Leone Short-Term Assistants Emily Olson, Celaya, Mexico working with Pastor Milton Flores.
National Leaders Iran Goes - President of AILLB Brazil D. Luther Sastry - President of AFLC-I India Milton Flores - President of CMLC Mexico
Thanks I am grateful to every supporter and congregation in our AFLC. I’m especially appreciative of those who responded to the personal support need of our missionaries at the end of 2019. Please continue to pray for our missionaries as they must take time to appeal for funds as they are on the mission field. The challenges of directing the AFLC World Missions office have been shared by the World Missions Committee. Glen Espe and Lyle Mattson have both stepped down from serving faithfully for many years on the committee. The 2019 World Mission committee: 116 Pastor Craig Johnson, chairman, Mr. Steve Deysher, Mr. Scott Erickson, Mr. Paul Handsaker, Mr. Ken Sletten, Pastor Dave Nelson, and Pastor Kent Sperry. Thank you, men, for your love for the Lord and your desire to see His Kingdom spread throughout the world by establishing free and living Lutheran congregations. Thanks to my wife, Joan, whose love for missions, desire to see people grow in their faith, and fervent prayer is a constant joy to me. Thanks to Jon Nelson as he oversees the work of Journey Missions. Thanks to our office staff: Wanda Jacobson, World Missions Office Manager; Liz McCarlson, part-time assistant; and Carol Knapp, our volunteer Social Media Director. Thanks to our congregations, who so generously support the work of AFLC World Missions. Without you, our congregations and individuals, we could not carry out the work on the field or in the office. Thank you for your sacrificial giving and prayer support. I pray that the uncertain times we live in will draw us all into deeper times of prayer for one another and our world.
Respectfully Submitted, Rev. Earl Korhonen, Director AFLC World Missions
117 THE HOME MISSIONS CHAIRMAN To the 58th Annual Conference meeting of the Association of Free Lutheran Congregation August 10th – 12th at the Association Retreat Center. For many years, 2 Chronicles 7:13-14 has been a key verse to call us to pray and seek God’s face and turn from our wicked ways. “When I shut up the heavens so that there is no rain, or command the locust to devour the land, or send pestilence among my people, 14 if my people who are called by my name humble themselves, and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven and will forgive their sin and heal their land.” We and the whole world is being humbled. It is the greatest opportunity for revival that I’ve ever seen! As I write, we’re not able to gather for public worship, but we can shine the light of Christ. We can invite those who would never enter a church building to participate digitally. We have the greatest opportunity to point to Jesus. This is when we put into practice our free and living faith. Our roots come out of revival in Norway. The Spirit stirred greatly in the (small groups) conventicles that were outlawed by the state church. The Spirit continues to be at work – it is essential that we allow Him to work in and through us in this new ‘normalcy’. Our Director, Pr. James L. Johnson, has continued to look at ways in which our association can organize to grow – ‘helping churches start churches.’ Haley Thramer, Administrative Assistant, does a wonderful job overseeing the day-to-day tasks in the office. It has been a privilege to serve with the members of the committee. Here is the committee with their terms: Rev. Jerry Peterson, 2020 Rev. Dale Finstrom, 2021 Mr. Ron Jorgenson, 2022 Mr. Tom Caouette, 2023 Mr. Glenn Mork, 2023 Rev. Mark Richardson, 2024 Mr. David Strand, 2024 As shown, I have served one 5-year clergy term and am eligible for re- election. We recommend for approval by the conference the Budget Analysis Committee’s figure of $391,000. The actual total expenditure amount which the committee is anticipating for 2021 is $816,686. Respectfully submitted, Pastor Jerry Peterson Chairman, Home Missions Committee
118 THE HOME MISSIONS DIRECTOR To the Annual Conference of the Association of Free Lutheran Congregations, set to meet at the Association Retreat Center, Osceola, WI, August 10-12: Ever since I joined the ministry of the AFLC mission and work as a student 40 years ago, I have admired the Free Lutheran vision for ministry. When I came to the Bible school as a student from another church body, I was impressed with the Association’s heart for the gospel message and salvation. Small churches and country parishes and city congregations had similar DNA: they wanted to see people come to Jesus, to read the Bible, to be a witness, and to support missions. I traveled on five summer teams and saw the heart of the people, visiting more than 150 of our churches, and staying in homes of the members overnight. The youth conventions were the most exciting events. We met in Washington, Wisconsin, British Columbia and finally Colorado. Generation after generation of new believers helped make new disciples. Students became counselors, new converts went to Bible school, college students helped with soul-winning, and new leaders were welcomed onto the team. The convention itself grew from 150 to 2,000 attendees. These young adult believers inspired me. I came to AFLBS after high school, worked for the school later on, answered the call to go to seminary, and served churches in rural Minnesota and metro Southern California. Now I have accepted the call to serve the AFLC as director of church planting. I have been serving about 25 starts, plants and new congregations on behalf of the committee for the last 24 months. The planter-pastors who serve these churches inspire me. The committee has established its primary mission: “to help churches plant new churches.” The seven members of the committee have made it their goal to help start 30 new churches by the year 2030. The current Coronavirus has slowed us down, but it has not stopped the vision. Jesus shall reign over all the earth. Because we believe church planting is the most effective way to reach the lost in the world, then we need to focus on building congregations, one at a time. And this work continues – perhaps it spreads even more rapidly in the context of crisis than in calm. But it is my honor to serve you, the AFLC family. We will work together to help churches start new congregations, with renewed zeal, and a devotion to learn how. I leave you with these nine points of learning so far. 1. WE HAVE A PROBLEM: Our church family is decreasing. Since 1962, our church family has been a vibrant witness for Christ. Our spiritual forefathers started more than 200 congregations under the ministry of The Lutheran Free Church between 1897 and 1961. Our forefathers, pastors and teachers trained at a beloved school, Augsburg Seminary, in Minneapolis. The LFC, after 65 years, grew to 334 congregations. Total 119 membership bulged to 90,000. It looked like all was well. But by 1962, it was over. When our foundational movement merged into a mainline synod, Georg Sverdrup’s dream faded to black. Re-organizing in Fargo and setting up national offices in Minneapolis, the AFLC began with 40 churches, a new Lutheran seminary, a Bible school in 1967, two mission committees who aimed at building our church fellowship, and a swiftly built Parish Education office. During the next 50 years, the AFLC grew by leaps and bounds. Forty churches grew to 110 churches by 1980, and by the year 2000 expanded to 241. The numbers of AFLC congregations rose to 257 in 2005, 267 in 2010, and at its height, the AFLC climbed to 283 churches and 50,000 members in 2015. But now the tide has turned. Our AFLC is in decline – along with other church bodies and movements. Across denominational lines, more than 6,000 churches close annually in America, according to recent trustworthy research. During the past five years, our beloved church family has decreased by 10 percent: from 283 congregations and 50,000 people to 253 congregations and 42,000 people. We are aging fast and losing ground. 2. THE CURE: ADAPTING UNTIL WE CAN ENGAGE THE NEXT GENERATION The Lord has promised us two things: a) He will build his church, b) We can start churches simply. It’s time to move forward with an eye to careful financial planning. The Home Missions leadership team believes starting new congregations is the most effective way to reach the most people for Christ. We are ripe for a wave of new churches. Hundreds of young adults are voicing a fresh revival of support for starting new AFLC congregations. Over the last 20 years, our church family has planted 25 churches that grew and remained. Our goal is to help start churches at double that rate: three new churches each year for the next 10 years. That kind of ambitious mission growth can come at a big expense. Or not. It’s time to learn how to plant in a more cost-effective way. As we do, we hope to invite new generations to join us in this Matthew 28 endeavor. During the past 55 years, our AFLC Bible School has trained 3,000 young adults to become strong spiritual leaders. Many of those graduates are strong leaders. A percentage are in full-time ministry. Some are missionaries, pastors, ministry staff leaders, or effective volunteers. But many of our AFLBS alums and other Millennial generation believers have not yet fully engaged with our mission. Until we engage them, we will have to adapt. 3. SENSE AND SENSIBILITY: We are learning it’s crucial to live within our means. “Teach us, O Lord, this difficult lesson,” wrote one early church father, Augustine of Hippo, “to manage conscientiously the goods we possess 120 and not covetously desire more than you give us.” In the transition year between a long-time director of 23 years, and the next director, the Home Mission ministry suffered a net operating loss of $100,424. We cannot let that happen again this year. In previous years, our gifted director was able to raise up individual donors who brought in support for home missions amounting to an average of $165,000. Those kinds of gifts did not come in at that level during 2019. Church giving remained consistent at $295,239 this year. But support from individual donors came in at $69,387 – $80,000 less than the previous year, and $95,613 less than the recent average. The Home Missions Committee is preparing a budget that attempts to reduce expenses accordingly. Starting churches sensibly in the near future will mean starting them simply. We will focus on our mission to help churches plant new churches. As one supporter told me recently: “Church planting means reaching out to those outside the church family and building relationships through the gospel.” It’s as simple as that. Devoted teachers and leaders can serve as volunteers. Bi-vocational planters may become the norm. Other volunteers can help us reach out to neighborhoods, showing us how to meet the needs of the poor, make a difference in the schools, focus on unreached minorities and migrant newcomers in that area. Humble believers in the AFLC are the right people to do that. We have always learned to get along with a little. We will focus on gospel renewal and make more disciples. During our budget-planning process, the Home Missions team at first planned on requesting an amount for 2021 identical to the amount approved by the conference for 2020. But our receipts in 2019 were significantly smaller than any of the last nine years. It appears we need to spend time establishing a strong support team. The trust, time and attention needed to forge these kinds of partnerships is a priority. Therefore, we have submitted a request for $391,000 – an amount appropriate in light of God’s supply for us in 2019. We are optimistic that receipts will come in at a higher level in 2021. If support does not come in above that requested level, we will need more cuts. In the past, the Home Missions ministry has dispersed nearly $200,000 annually to new churches. Because we have adapted our vision from giving direct subsidies to a mission of “helping churches plant new churches,” we have reduced subsidies significantly already. Subsidies for five churches in 2021 are set at $94,320. Those subsidies will be gradually eliminated by 2024. During 2021, our budget is set for offering $100,000 as congregational matching grants. We are planning to offer applicant partner churches up to six matching grants of $12,000 as well as two grants available for $30,000 or $20,000. But we need God to supply those grants. 4. LEARNING TO WORK TOGETHER: Intentional efforts to build a family network. We want to work together, smarter and simpler. 121 The two mission committees are splitting a $12,000 grant for Emmaus Lutheran Church to sponsor a Chinese Church plant. The AFLC Evangelism director is considering ways we can work with his committee too. Individual believers are coming to the plate. A seminary group meets before class every week to discuss church planting too. A church planting book club has begun on-line. A new publication, The Church Planter, is aimed at cultivating increased awareness of the work of the Lord in starting new churches. Some have claimed that the AFLC has been locked in a “silo” mentality – “instead of cooperating together,” says a friend, “we have become competitive and protective.” We are working to change that. The Chinese AFLC Church plant is a big step for us. We are also planning “Mission Weekends” with the World Missions team up for four times a year. We want to work with other Free Lutheran ministries to plan “AFLC Weekends” in local districts too. We believe it’s God’s will to plan cooperative events and promote our common work of soul-winning and congregation building. 5. COMMITMENT TO FOCUS: Devoting ourselves to helping plant new congregations. We plan to devote our efforts to serving our 253 AFLC congregations. We are asking the Lord to “add to the number those who are being saved,” as it says in Acts 2:41. In my earliest memories of fellowship with AFLC ministries as a college student, the most inspirational factors about the Association for me were our church family’s call to soul-winning and congregation building. People cared about salvation and talked about new congregations. We are similarly committed to salvation and new starts. When I came to assurance of salvation as a teenager, I was sitting in a growing Home Mission church in western Washington. The new church leaders at Elim of Lake Stevens became life-long friends. They helped start a new AFLC church in the neighboring city of Arlington. We watched Atonement move ahead only slowly. Now it gathers more people per week (400) than the mother church. Linda and I both experienced church planting summers on Barnabas Teams. We both prayed we one day could have a chance to help lead a new plant. God allowed us to train as members of Emmaus in Bloomington, which planted a new church in Rogers-St. Michael, MN, serving side by side with my college friends. Then, after spending ten years serving at our AFLC Bible school, Linda and I were called to help get a new Free Lutheran church off the ground in Southern California. Church planting is contagious. As a servant to the Home Mission Committee, I have a front-lines chance to see the work of 25 new starts. We are inspired by the believers of Abiding Savior in Sioux Falls, SD. They inspired us by planting three new congregations: one in Sioux Falls (Living Word), one in Rapid City (Shiloh), the other in San Antonio (Trinity). They are a template for us. We are a not a synod. We’re a congregation- driven movement. We don’t take over. “We help local churches plant new churches.” 122 Our commitment is to help, resource, direct, support, send work teams, provide children’s outreach teams, raise funds for, advise, and tell the story about new churches in the AFLC. 6. NEW CHURCHES GROWING: The list of congregations below may help you see what God is doing. CHURCH STARTS (AFLC-CONNECTED GATHERINGS) 1. Resurrection Free Lutheran, Ramsey, MN 2. Hope Free Lutheran, Killdeer, ND 3. Trinity Lutheran, San Antonio, TX 4. New Hope Free Lutheran, Sisseton, SD 5. Hilltop Christian Fellowship, Naknek, AK 6. Chinese Lutheran Fellowship, St. Paul, MN
AFLC PLANTS (AFLC SUPPORT, LEGAL CONSTITUTIONS) 7. The Source, Mesa, AZ 8. Waikiki Beach Gathering, Honolulu, HI 9. Good Shepherd Lutheran, Madison, SD 10. Hope AFLC Church, Enderlin, ND 11. Lutheran Church of Hope, Loveland, CO 12. East Kootenay Parish Plants, AFLC-Canada: Four AFLC-Canada plants near Cranbrook, BC* 13. Foothill AFLC-Canada, Black Diamond, AB*
NEW CHURCHES (SOON TO GRADUATE UP) 14. New Hope Free Lutheran, Jamestown, ND 15. Shiloh Church, Rapid City, SD 16. Living Faith Lutheran, Boyertown, PA 17. Christ Community Church, Hagerstown, MD 18. Immanuel Lutheran, Springfield, MO 19. Calvary Free Lutheran, Mesa, AZ 20. Stronghold Lutheran, Trenton, MI 21. Abiding Word Free Lutheran, Felch, MI
REVITALIZATION MISSIONS (CHURCHES REBIRTHING) 22. Community Lutheran, Oceanside, CA 23. Cross and Crown Lutheran, Montebello, CA 24. Tabor Free Lutheran, Webster, SD 25. Good Shepherd Lutheran, Lincoln, IL 26. Trinity Free Lutheran, Janesville, IL 27. Hosanna Free Lutheran, Cumberland, WI * Mission work overseen by our sister church, AFLC-Canada.
FUTURE POSSIBILITIES WITH PRAYER GROUPS AFLC Home Missions policy is to begin new possibilities with concerted prayer groups covering the new community first. a. Farmington, MN (Prayer support in Minneapolis, St. Paul). b. Buffalo, MN (Prayer support in Plymouth and Beltrami). c. Rochester, MN (Under discussion in Zumbrota, MN) d. Western Washington (Under discussion in Pacific Northwest district). 123 e. Butte, MN (Prayer support and discussion in Kalispell, MT)
We are committed to raising interest, identifying planters, training volunteers, and learning a sensible template that will work for us so we can multiply. 7. FOUR CATEGORIES: As a part of the learning process, we list our new plants in four categories. a. Village missions (starting churches in towns where there are no churches, such as Alaska). b. Rural planting (starting fellowships where there are few gospel-centered churches). c. Metro church planting (starting new churches where new generations are moving). d. Revitalization work (re-launching churches with facilities but few people). 8. ALASKA: We are also learning how best to serve the last frontier and the new frontiers. Our Alaska mission field is relatively new to us. In 2008, we inherited the mission from Lutheran Mission Society (LMS). Thirteen years ago, LMS called an AFLC pastor. He has served the Alaska Mission well. Under Jeff Swanson’s guidance, the church start has grown. The village of Naknek swells to over 5,000 in the summer. Our radio ministry and Net Coffee House helps us reach people from over 30 countries and 50 states. We are also working to plant preaching points in 10 small villages. The Home Missions Committee has sent two pastor couples to assist in the work: Bob and Margaret Lee, Jeremy and Lacey Crowell. The committee also founded a flight-providing ministry, FLAPS, to assist our work. LMS also is asking us to take over the responsibility for its missionary pastor, the one who will replace Jeff Swanson. Jeff and Jane will move to Kansas to a farmhouse they inherited near their childhood homes. Long-time advocates for reaching the unreached people with the Gospel, they hope to continue to serve in both evangelistic work down here as well as serve in deputation work for the mission up there. The ministry draws in dozens of AFLC volunteers and supporters who care about village mission work. In the last 10 years, we have raised $1.5 million to support the ministry of Alaska. Home Missions invested approximately $750,000 from its own budget during that time. It’s a time for re-evaluation. At the request of the resolutions from the Annual Conference the past two years, the Home Missions Committee was asked to correct an imbalance between the efforts we have made in Alaska and the new works we as a family plan to begin in the rest of the country. Our common mission in Alaska is not yet fully sponsored. We have three missionary pastors there. In the past four years our shortfalls in Alaska have been trending downward from $102,000 in 2015 to $52,553 124 in 2017 and almost half of that in 2018, and last year, $17,496 to subsidize the work. The Home Missions Committee aims to help the Alaska Mission become fully sponsored in the next three years. But in light of a downturn in receipts in 2019, and continued tight funding during the first half of this year, we are looking at making more reductions in Alaska. The decisions will be hard ones. 9. LOOKING TO GROW: The biggest lesson we learned during the 2020 Corona Crisis. In closing, we come together to serve you, our precious congregations. Our administrative assistant, Haley Thramer, does a great job running the office, and our Home Missions Committee sends you greetings. Those men include Pastor Jerry Peterson, our chair, and Pastor Mark Richardson, our secretary. The committee is a pleasure to work with, and also includes: Glenn Mork (Buffalo, MN), Tom Caouette (Nisswa, MN), David Strand (Kindred, ND), Ron Jorgenson (Lidgerwood, ND), and long-time member Pastor Dale Finstrom, who lives in Mesa, Arizona, and Fertile, MN. We have come to this peace as a committee: there is nothing more important than the Gospel of Jesus Christ. We’re not ashamed of the gospel, Paul wrote, “for it is the power of God for salvation to all who believe, to the Jew first, and also to the Greek. For in it God’s righteousness is revealed from faith to faith, just as it is written: the righteous will live by faith” (Romans 1:16-17). While the world worships musicians, and athletes and the stock market, we will worship Jesus. The world will find its hope in the economy, we will find our hope in the Immanuel. God is not going away anytime soon. You can shut down the stadiums. You can close the civic centers. You can close up the non-essential businesses and send the kids home from school. You can close down the universities, and shutter the museums and the shopping malls. But the Gospel does not stop. “Jesus shall reign where’er the sun, doth His successive journeys run. His kingdom stretch from shore to shore, ‘til moons shall wax and wane no more.” So as we see the kingdoms totter, the world stand still, while the virus spreads and we see the Earth panic, and as we note our beloved church family in decline, from 283 to 253, we will not close our doors and run away and stay home. We will go about the business of Matthew 28. We will help churches plant new local churches. We will make disciples of Jesus Christ, and stand up to serve as long as we can still breathe. We preach the gospel and sing of salvation – will you join us in that mission? Respectfully submitted, Jim Johnson, AFLC Home Missions Director
125 FREE LUTHERAN ASSOCIATION OF PILOT SUPPORTERS, INC. To The 58th Annual Conference of the Association of Free Lutheran Congregations gathered at the Association Retreat Center at Osceola, Wisconsin August 10 – 12, 2020.
Luke 18:8 “Will He Find Faith” is the theme for the conference this year. FLAPS is happy to report that we are finding “faith” when we fly pastors and lay people to remote villages in southwest Alaska. In some villages, the VBS team brings the only Christian message the children will hear for the year. It is encouraging to find people who stay close to the Lord, even though they don’t get the benefit of a permanent on-site pastor. 2019 was a year that saw some changes with the airplanes that FLAPS uses to spread the Gospel. The Cessna 182 that was given to FLAPS in 2007 has always been based in Minneapolis. It was used to fly pastors and others from AFLC headquarters to various services and meetings within 500 miles. Seeing declining use in the Minneapolis area, the FLAPS Board voted last summer to move it up to Naknek, Alaska. The need is great in Alaska, and the 1959 Cessna 175, that has served as the backbone of the FLAPS flying from the start of the Alaska mission, was in need of some expensive upgrades. An offer to purchase the Cessna 175 was accepted by the FLAPS board last fall. There will continue to be three airplanes that FLAPS operate in Naknek but, unless a new need arises, FLAPS will no longer be keeping a plane in Minneapolis. Before the 182 was flown up to Alaska, a generous grant was used to place new radios in it to bring it up to modern requirements. In mid-September, the 182 was flown to Alaska by three volunteers. They stayed an extra week in Naknek working to install the heavy duty landing gear needed for service in Alaska on the 182, and also helped FLAPS Pastor Pilot Jeremy Cowell with other important projects at the airport. FLAPS now has a total of three aircraft, all serving in Alaska. A small four-seat Piper Cherokee 140, the newer, larger, four-seat Cessna 182, and the six-seat Piper Cherokee Six. All three have recently overhauled engines and updated radios. As far as future needs for these planes, the Cherokee Six may get a needed paint job in the next year, and the Cherokee 140, a required transponder upgrade (ADSB sending unit). The funds for these items should be covered by the sale of the Cessna 175. The Lord continues to bless us with help and funds for each need we encounter. Pastor Jeremy Crowell is in his 10th year serving in Alaska as pilot, pastor, and aircraft mechanic. He and his family live in Naknek, the hub for all AFLC Mission work in Alaska. We are also blessed to have several Christian professional pilots who volunteer with Jeremy at times when extra help is needed. There are flights to be made every week year round for church services 126 and midweek Bible studies in the villages of South Naknek and Ekwok. In the summer, flying tasks pick up exponentially as the AFLC VBS team is flown out to a different village each week. There are plans to conduct Vacation Bible School for five days in each of eight separate villages this summer. Older youth from the remote villages are also flown to Tanalian Bible Camp in Port Alsworth where they spend a week learning about Jesus and fellowshipping with other youth and counselors. Jeremy reports of many changed lives among these youths. It is a joy to see God expanding his kingdom in the remote villages of southwest Alaska. Please pray for continued safety for the flights and receptiveness to the Gospel message that is shared. In closing, I would like to thank the FLAPS Board of Managers, the Home Missions Committee, and Pastor Jim Johnson for their guidance and support in this work that the Lord has given us. Thank you to the many others who faithfully support this ministry through your prayers and gifts. May God be honored in all that we do. “…but, they who wait for the Lord shall mount up with wings like eagles; they shall run and not be weary; they shall walk and not faint.” Isaiah 40:31 In Christ, Dr. Kevin Lee FLAPS Director
127 PRESIDENT WOMENS MISSIONARY FEDERATION To the 58th Annual Conference of the AFLC, meeting in Osceola Wisconsin on Monday, August 10th, 2020 at the Association Retreat Center. “But thanks be to God who gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ.” I Corinthians. 15:57.
Our WMF theme is VICTORY IN JESUS. I John 5:4-5 “For everyone who has been born of God overcomes the world. And this is the victory that has overcome the world – our faith.”
The Bible Study for 2020 is entitled: Don’t Follow Your Feelings. Countless hours are devoted to making sure we present a Biblically sound and accurate Bible study. Thanks to Linda Korhonen our writer and to our editors Pastor Les and Dawn Johnson and Dee Berkas. We are trusting that this timely study will be a cherished tool for ministry with all who are questioning.
The WMF has a page in The Lutheran Ambassador. This is an opportunity to read about the various ministries the WMF supports. The WMF website is updated often. Devotionals are available as well as a note from me. We have links there to our projects. Our Helping Hand publication - formerly published four times a year was cut to two. The first issue will focus on World Missions and Christian Education. The 2nd will be Home Missions, and WMF General Fund as well as our WMF Day review. I can’t thank you enough for being willing to write for me when called upon. We ask the local and district presidents to pass them on to their groups either by email or paper copies. We have a Facebook page with around 400 friends and just last year launched Instagram – thanks to JoyAnn Dahl and Tami Demo. We pray these publications are helpful on a practical level; but most of all, pray that they always point you to our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.
We work diligently to update the Resource Manual. Do you know where your church’s copy is? Information in the WMF Resource Manual is not copyrighted so copies can be made as needed. We also hope you have seen our Promotional DVD. If not, you can view this at www.aflc.org/women.
During our time together in Pennsylvania we were able to ratify the Article V Officers Section of our constitution … “Officers shall be elected for a term of three years. All officers may be eligible for re-election, but no officers shall hold the same office for more than two successive terms. The President and Communications Secretary shall be elected one year; the First Vice-President and Recording Secretary the following year; the Second Vice-President and the Treasurer the third year. Newly elected officers shall officially assume their duties at the All Boards September meeting following their election.” However, I got a lovely email from our president that informed me the next All Boards will be in October… So needless to say; we are postponing the implementation of the proposal 128 (see Article III Section 3). It is our hope that we can strike the All Boards wording as a friendly amendment this year. And thank you to those of you who are keeping the WMF doing its work “decently and in order.” I Cor. 14:40 Special thanks to Dawn Johnson for her years of experience. This is her fourth president!! Can we get an Amen?
My heart is full as I picture the women across the AFLC in their WMF meetings. 57 years of women meeting to pray, give and “go ye into all the world.” With gifts given to the various ministries we bless the workers in the harvest fields. This year your contributions will be disbursed for these areas.
Christian Education: Parish Ed, Free Lutheran Bible College (FLBC), Free Lutheran Seminary (FLS) Parish Ed; Support received will be used as the Parish Education Board deems necessary. Pray for Marian Christopherson and the Parish Ed Board. FLBC: Dorm room refurbishing. Pray for this project as well as Adam Osier and the FLBC school board. FLTS: Supporting each full-time seminarian and intern with $100 each semester for books, a Lutheran Ambassador subscription, and needed upkeep and projects for chapel maintenance. Pray for our seminary and Dean Dr. James Molstre and the FLTS school board. At this point we also want to remind you that we have a resource for you to use for parents of new babies. Our Cradle Roll packets contain biblically- sound brochures with encouragement to raise a child in the Word of God. Packets can be ordered through WMF Executive Secretary, Dawn Johnson. Contact her at [email protected].
World Missions Contributions will be distributed toward missionaries’ monthly support at the discretion of the members of the World Missions Board. Pray for our missionaries and Pastor Earl Korhonen and the World Missions Board.
Home Missions A total of $4,000 toward the Pastors and Wives Retreat in Mesa, AZ. The remainder to be given to be used at the discretion of the ministry as deemed necessary. Pray for our home mission churches and parish builders. Also keep Jim Johnson and the Home Missions Board in your prayers.
General Fund The general operating fund also needs your offerings of support in order for the National Board to continue the work of the WMF. Operating expenses include: printing Bible studies, newsletters (Helping Hand), resource manual updates, welcome packets, salary of executive secretary, stipends for the president and treasurer, convention expenses, GoToMeeting expenses, office equipment and supplies as well as WOC (women’s outreach coordinator) travel. At this time our board members are meeting 129 this need and there is some money still available from a grant designated towards this. Every effort is made to keep these expenses as reasonable as possible. This year we are grateful for a promotional grant that will help us to “get the Word out!” When we met with Marian Christopherson in September, she expressed her desire that it would be impossible for folks in the ALFC not to know about Parish Ed. We want it to be equally impossible for ladies not to know about WMF… Women’s Ministry is alive and well across the AFLC. Thanks be to God! Pray for your WMF board. Contact me at [email protected] or give me a call on my cell (406)249-1605 or (406)892-2667 at home in Montana. The offices of 2nd vice president and treasurer are up for election today. Deb has served for two terms and is not eligible for re-election and Tami has chosen not to run for a second term. Both Tami and Deb have been a blessing in their years of serving. We are grateful for all those who have been willing to run for the board. If you are contacted about running for a WMF board whether local, district, or National, please prayerfully consider whether God is calling you. We all have busy schedules but it is amazing to see how God provides for us when we are willing to be available for tasks in His Kingdom’s Work. Thank you to the ARC staff and volunteers, and our Minneapolis District churches for all your work in hosting this year’s conference! We appreciate your hard work in planning and coordinating this WMF day event! Thank you to my teammates – Deb, Karen, Anne, Tami, Deanna, and Dawn. I am grateful for some storms we weathered together. Growing in the valley so we can glow together here on this mountaintop. Ladies -2020!! – Thank you to those who had a vision in the 60’s for what could be accomplished as a group. We have a treasured legacy and will take that baton and run the race. We begin a new decade and to be honest the theme this year has weighed heavily on me. Where faithfulness was so easy to shout from the mountaintops; victory is another story. I did see the movie “Overcomer.” I know there are many of you running on fumes. Those trials…lost loved ones, health concerns, finances, our country – world unrest. If we were following our feelings we would be living in fear. Circumstances change constantly but together we trust the God who is unchanging! John 16:33 – “These things I have spoken unto you, that in me ye might have peace. In the world ye shall have tribulation: but be of good cheer, I have overcome the world.” Thank you for your prayers! I’m praying for you, too! And remember your victory is in Jesus.
Respectfully submitted, Lavonne West
130 CHAIRMAN, BOARD OF PUBLICATIONS AND PARISH EDUCATION To the Annual Conference of the Association of Free Lutheran Congregations gathered together in Osceola, Wisconsin at the Association Retreat Center, August 10-12, 2020.
Luke 18:8 “…when the Son of Man comes, will he find faith on earth?” The fact is that when the Son of Man comes, He will find faith. We know that this is the case because our Savior after Peter’s confession in Matthew 16:16 that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of the living God, said in verse 18 that the “gates of hell shall not prevail against” the church. I have marveled at these words from Luke 18:8 because they follow the parable of the persistent widow which is told for the very purpose of encouraging people to pray and not lose heart (18:1). The question then asked in verse 8 is not to bring discouragement and despair but so that we might turn our eyes to the gracious Savior who gladly hears us when we call out to Him. When we look at the world, we find all sorts of evil and wickedness but when we look to our Savior, we find the author and perfecter of our faith (Hebrews 12:1-3). I have also been glad that this question turns our eyes not to any work but to the gift of faith delivered to us by the means of grace which God has provided for us, His Word and Sacraments. An examination of the world for certain types of works can certainly be an exhausting and daunting task with little encouragement but the Lord has given us great access and a clear location where we can find His promises to us. We have them in the Bible. Thanks be to God! This then is the joy and privilege of the Board of Publications and Parish Education, to produce and distribute materials for the building up of the body of Christ. So in trying and uncertain times the question is not should we continue to proclaim God’s Word but we ask how can we best communicate the Gospel in a world in which public gatherings are limited or cancelled, “social-distancing” is repeatedly encouraged, and normality is upended. In these chaotic days I have appreciated the thoughtfulness and responsiveness of our director, Marian Christopherson, as she has diligently worked to keep the department running and the processes of preparing and producing faithful material continuing as much as possible. I have wondered how any of the things that we are working to do could have been done in the past. During these days, we have relied more heavily on our electronic means of communications than ever before and have been astounded how much can still be accomplished. For the last few years, we have been working hard to make available more 131 of our past resources available in digital forms and the pandemic which we have experienced has certainly shown us the need for accelerating the process where we are able. We continue to look for creative and innovative ways to deliver into the hands of our congregations Sunday School curriculum, Bible studies, and other helpful distinctly Lutheran materials.
The Board of Publication and Parish Education is a vital part of AFLC and as such needs your support. We urgently request that you support this ministry so that it continues and would not be hindered in any way. First, we would ask you to support us by praying for the ministry and especially Marian Christopherson. Marian’s faithful and diligent work allows for many projects to get done that would in other situation require more staff than we can have in our current ministry. Along with praying for Marian please pray for the other workers in the office, Diane Brubakken, Scott Olson, and all the volunteers that are working on various projects. Secondly, we would ask that you as congregations make use of the materials which we produce through Ambassador Publications. During much of the month of March I was checking out various ministries and publications opening their materials for free use. We have done some of that as well and pray that might have been a help to you during some of these difficult days. But just because it is free doesn’t mean it is good of helpful. We need discernment when we are under such a deluge of information. When you call us or open the online bookstore you will find materials that have been considered before being promoted and pondered before being published. We want you to be turning to Ambassador Publications when considering a new Bible study or devotional reading. Thirdly, we would remind the Annual Conference that the Board of Publications and Parish Education has two sources of income to supply its financial needs. We receive some funds from the sale of materials, but we also need the financial support of our congregations and individual members. We are working hard to produce materials that our congregations need and want at the best price possible. This means that as we try to be competitive in our pricing, we are not making large profits especially when we take note that most of our materials are put together by people who are volunteering their time and efforts. We are asking that the people who are receiving this information would take this to their congregations and consider regularly giving to Ambassador Publications. Also, that individuals would pray about making a regular gift to this department. Unless we have continued support, we will not be able to continue to staff our office as we have, and this will drastically diminish the speed and output of materials from Ambassador Publications. However, there are a couple of projects that I would like to specifically mention. The first is the book of Dr. Monseth’s writings which is soon to be printed. This book has been in development for a time and we thank the Monseth family for their help and suggestions as we worked on getting 132 together various writings which were published throughout Dr. Monseth’s life. We add this volume to our Heritage Series and thank God for the heritage passed on through this book. The second project that I wanted to mention is the one that the board has spent considerable time on during this past year. We have been working on revising our Sunday School Curriculum on the Ten Commandments and I believe that these lessons are excellent. I am honestly very eager for these lessons to get into the hands of our congregations and our prayer is that by the Fall we will be printing the 1st quarters lessons and that they can be used then. As I conclude my report, I would like to thank Marian Christopherson, Diane Brubakken, and Scott Olson for all their work in the office. I would like to thank all the volunteers who write, edit, format, create artwork, put together lesson activities, and all the various aspects of our materials. We are thankful to the continued cooperation with the Schools in the Book Nook in Heritage Hall. We are thankful to the WMF and their continued support as well as all the congregations and individuals who have generously and sacrificially given to this work in the past year. We are presenting a budget for 2021 in the amount of $331,000 with a budget subsidy request of $172,000. Currently serving on the Board of Publications and Parish Education are: Rev. Dennis Norby, Chair; Mrs. Solveig Hjermstad, Vice-Chair; Mrs. Maren Sletten, Secretary, Mrs. Suzanne Tietjen, and Rev. Ryan Patenaude. One lay member will need to be elected at this conference to a five-year term on the Board of Publications. Mrs. Solveig Hjermstad has finished her term and has determined to not put her name up for reelection. Solveig with thank you for your time and effort put into the department and pray God would bless you in every way. May God’s precious Word continue to be proclaimed and cherished in our homes and congregations. Respectfully submitted, Rev. Dennis Norby Chair, Board of Publications and Parish Education
133 THE DIRECTOR OF PUBLICATIONS AND PARISH EDUCATION To the Annual Conference of the Association of Free Lutheran Congregations convening at the Association Retreat Center, Osceola, Wisconsin, August 10-12, 2020: As we gather under our conference theme, “Will He Find Faith?” (Luke 18:8), note the bookends in Luke 18 are parables of perseverance in prayer and faith. Today we persevere by faith because the object of our faith— Jesus Christ— is trustworthy, sure, and powerful. Prayer is an expression of that faith. We, the elect of God, call out to Him in our need because we have confidence that He hears and that He is able to provide what is needed. Augustine eloquently expresses the interrelationship of faith and prayer: “When faith fails, prayer dies. In order to pray, then, we must have faith; and that our faith fail not, we must pray. Faith pours forth prayer; and the pouring forth of the heart in prayer gives steadfastness to faith.” Amid days of uncertainty and fear in the world around us, we have a certain hope that compels us to prayerfully persevere through whatever circumstances confront us and to entrust ourselves and our ministries to His care. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Developing Christ-centered Bible curriculum for all ages to serve our AFLC congregations continues to be a strong focus of the ministry of Parish Education. The Ambassador Sunday School Series for Preschool through Level 6 has been carefully and intentionally designed to help students build a foundation for Christian faith and life as they move progressively through the Scriptures and Luther’s Small Catechism. Ultimately, our desire is that our curriculum will be used by God as a tool for our congregations to promote true and living faith that grows and thrives in the hearts of those who hear and study His Word. Ambassador curriculum emphasizes Scripture memory, recognizing the significance of God’s Word being written on the minds and heartsof children from a very young age. This curriculum helps students learn these verses in the classroom but also encourages students to work on them at home. Lessons add challenge memory verses for those students who aspire to learn more. In addition, Ambassador curriculum champions the concept of family devotions in the lower levels (e.g. Preschool curriculum has daily Scripture readings on a Parent Page) and challenges the middle and upper grades to have personal daily devotions (e.g. Levels 5 and 6 provide daily devotional cards that students are encouraged to keep in their Bibles throughout the week as a guide to daily devotions and Scripture memorization). We recognize the value of establishing this habit while children are young so that it becomes a normal practice throughout their teenage years. Hopefully, this practice will also then carry over into adult life when many have families of their own, and they begin establishing the same habit for a new generation. Ambassador curriculum is also designed to be versatile for combinations of different age groups. Educators recognize the reality that every student is different and the dynamics of every classroom is different. But if one starts with a solid foundation, methods can easily be adapted for the particular needs of a particular group. Please share with your congregations the value and benefits of 134 using AFLC Ambassador curriculum to teach the truths of Scripture. We are planning for the publication of new Level 2 curriculum on the Ten Commandments in 2020. Reviewing and editing student Bible lessons for this curriculum has been the focus of regular online board meetings during the past year. Many volunteers have also contributed in various ways. Ruth Gunderson, who does the graphic design work for our curriculum, has begun work on the layout of lessons for Quarter 1. We hope to have student lesson samples available to distribute at the annual conference. Many of our resources, including Bible lessons for children as well as youth and adult Bible studies, are available in a downloadable form, and we are continuing to grow these options. We released a Kindle e-book edition of our AFLC devotional, Threads of Grace, and intend to keep adding to the existing list of other e-publications. We are continually exploring better ways to use technology to produce appropriate resources to serve our congregations but often lack the tools and time to accomplish them. Our downloadable confirmation curriculum, Foundations of the Faith: This Is Most Certainly True, continues to see strong use. We launched an updated version in 2019 with a few corrections and additions. This will likely be done on an annual basis, and we continue to welcome feedback from its users. Our Jonah and Acts curriculum for youth (though easily adapted for adults) also continues to be widely used by congregations. After various delays over the past two years, we are looking forward to the completion of Volume V in the AFLC Heritage Series, One Thing I Seek: Selected Writings of Francis W. Monseth. We believe this collection of devotional, historical, and theological writings will be a great blessing to former Bible school and seminary students of Dr. Monseth, as well as to our extended AFLC family. Two other volumes in the Heritage Series are in line for publication in the years ahead: 1) a history of the AFLC by Pastor Robert Lee; and 2) a collection of devotional writings by Georg Sverdrup, founder of the Lutheran Free Church (to be published in cooperation with the Georg Sverdrup Society, which exists to promote the study of the New Testament concept of “free and living congregations”). The Heritage Series was not the only delay we experienced during the past year. After a disastrous incident damaged the main campus internet server at the end of 2018, it took several months to recover data, update computers, and deal with other related lingering issues. Challenges such as these are unpredictable and perhaps inevitable, but they cause undesirable delays in our regular work and in publication progress. It is not uncommon to have at least one or two significant unpredictable challenges every year that, from our limited perspective, hinder our goals, but we must trust that the LORD is able to accomplish what He desires in His time and rest in His faithfulness. In response to the need for greater teacher training and out of a desire to better inform our congregations of what we have available to serve them, we decided to experiment with offering online webinars relating to Christian education in 2019. Webinars can be attended from anywhere you have a computer and access to the internet. Our goal through the online 135 webinars is: • to facilitate increase in biblical literacy at a congregational level, thereby helping people to grow in faith. • to challenge congregations to pursue higher standards of excellence in their educational ministries, to the glory of God. • to provide encouragement and support to educators in our congregations. Our webinars in 2019 focused on 1) introducing the Ambassador Sunday School Series—demonstrating the purpose and plan behind the curriculum, and providing an overview of each grade level; and 2) familiarizing people with the new confirmation curriculum—explaining the educational approach, guiding students through a sample lesson, and showing them how to use it in a classroom. The feedback we received from these webinars was very positive. We appreciate those who have submitted ideas for future webinars and hope to utilize this tool more in 2020. If you haven’t filled out a survey for topic ideas, you can do so on our website or send us your requests through email. We have accepted the AFLC Schools’ invitation to continue another year managing the Ambassador Book Nook, so we are now in our second school year of this cooperative effort, which has proved beneficial to both parties. Note that Ambassador Book Nook gift cards are now available for purchase. We invite individuals and congregations to consider giving these gift cards to seminary and Bible college students to help them afford their textbooks. Faculty members, pastors, teachers, and friends also benefit from new resources and would likely welcome a gift card to the Book Nook. (Regular gift certificates can also still be purchased through our online bookstore.) We attempt to communicate regularly with individuals and congregations through e-news updates, facebook, email, our website, and online bookstore. But one of our greatest challenges is connecting with the specific individuals in our congregations who are serving in educational roles. These individuals are constantly changing. Please encourage members of your congregations, and especially teachers, to help us stay connected with them so that we can learn better how to serve them well. We are thankful for opportunities throughout the year to lead Christian education workshops and to share about the ministry of Ambassador Publications in local congregations, at conventions, and at WMF rallies. Thank you to individuals and congregations who commit to supporting the ministry of Parish Education through prayers and gifts. In addition to your gifts, we are thankful for the benevolence of two grants received in 2019: • $4,233.81 non-designated grant from the Myrtle, Thelma, Gladys Johnson Fund • $1,000 Foundation Grant for webinar equipment and expenses We have lots of ideas and lots of projects we would like to do and are even trying to do to serve our congregations. But we are also aware of our limitations of staff and funds. There is much more we would like to accomplish, but we are a small staff with a small budget. We are doing as much as we can with the time that we have with the staff that we have with 136 the money that we have. Please pray for wisdom for us to accomplish the most important things, to be good stewards of what God does provide, and to trust God to bless and multiply our labors for His honor and glory. Thank you to numerous volunteers who assist regularly with projects and curriculum development. Thanks to our office staff for their dedication to serving our congregations well. Our full-time Administrative Assistant Diane Brubakken is skilled and efficient in multiple ways and accomplishes an incredible variety and volume of tasks. Our part-time Office Assistant, Cynthia Lohse, left her position last summer to pursue another opportunity. We are thankful for her years of dedicated service. We welcome Scott Olson as our new part-time Customer Account Specialist. Scott has quickly adapted to his new role and is doing exceptional work. Thank you to members of the Board of Publications for their diligent and prayerful service, guiding the ministry of AFLC Parish Education: Maren Sletten, Solveig Hjermstad, Suzanne Tietgen, Rev. Dennis Norby, and newest member, Rev. Ryan Patenaude. Respectfully submitted, Mrs. Marian J. Christopherson Director of Publications and Parish Education
137 YOUTH BOARD CHAIRMAN To the Fifty-eighth Annual Conference of the Association of Free Lutheran Congregations, assembled at the Association Retreat Center near Osceola, Wisconsin, on August 10-12, 2020.
AFLC Youth Ministries exists to encourage local congregations to WIN teens to Christ, to BUILD teen believers in God’s truth and love, to EQUIP teen workers to live and share their faith, and to MULTIPLY maturing disciples in Jesus Christ. To accomplish these purposes, the AFLC Youth Board oversees three main events. The FLY Convention, FLY Beyond, and our Youth Worker Weekends are long-standing events offered through our department. The FLY Convention meets every other year. We look forward to seeing what the Lord has in store for us as we meet under the theme “Restored” in July 2021. FLY Beyond is an under-utilized treasure in our AFLC. We invite you to explore the possibility of joining us at the ARC in Wisconsin on July 19- 23, 2020 for this event. The students who attend FLY Beyond come away with increased Biblical knowledge, growing confidence in their faith, and growing leadership skills. We are looking forward to the great teaching that will be offered during this event. At the writing of this report, we are navigating what a global pandemic means for this event in July. AFLC Youth Ministries would also love to see more people attend our Youth Worker Weekends. This past January, we were dealing with an Upper Midwest blizzard, as opposed to a virus, that prevented many people from attending. We are thankful for those who were able to attend, and for Bo Boshers, who was our trainer for the event. We encourage you to makes plans to attend this event this coming January. AFLC Youth Ministries also offers training and mentoring for those involved in formal youth ministry. Our Apprenticeship Program offers training and education in the setting of the local congregation. New and prospective youth leaders would learn by regularly meeting with veteran youth leaders and by working in the church setting. We are coming to the close of our first year of working with FLTS to provide an adapted Apprenticeship Program for seminary interns. We are excited to see what is in store as this effort moves forward. We are also excited to offer a mentoring opportunity for existing youth leaders. We are working with an organization called LEAD222 to offer youth ministry coaching to interested youth leaders and volunteers. As our relationship with LEAD 222 continues to grow, more and more AFLC youth leaders are being trained as coaches, and these coaches have been training other AFLC leaders. LEAD222 seeks to promote healthy lives, families, and ministries for all its participants. If you would like more 138 information on what youth ministry coaching is about, you can contact the Youth Ministries department. Beyond the youth ministry coaching, LEAD222 offers missions trips to urban and needy areas in our country. AFLC youth missions is exploring ways to partner with LEAD222 for a biennial AFLC Youth Ministries opportunity to serve the physically and spiritually needy in one of our country’s urban areas. We are thankful for our youth ministry staff. Liz McCarlson serves as an administrative assistant, Chris Rasmussen serves as Administrative Coordinator, Daniel Keinanen serves as the FLY Convention Coordinator, Jordan Langness serves as Training Coordinator, Pastor Daniel Hurner was recently hired as our Networking Coordinator, and Pastor Jason Holt is our director. We are excited to celebrate with Pastor Jason as he has finished his Doctor of Ministry Degree. We praise the Lord for each of our staff members and for the gifts they bring to our area of ministry. The AFLC Youth board consists of Pastor Eric Rasmussen, Dr. Nathan Olson, and Mrs. Sharon Rykhus, Mrs. Michele Smith, and Mr. Adam McCarlson. Dr. Nathan Olson has served one partial term and is eligible for reelection. AFLC Youth Ministries, like many other ministries of our AFLC, has struggled in recent years to fully fund our budget. The AFLC Youth Board feels like we have accomplished many of our long-term goals in the past couple of years, but the current Coronavirus pandemic and general trends of decreased charitable giving threaten to undermine the groundwork that has been laid in several areas. At the writing of this report, we are attempting to make contingency plans to further shrink our already very tight budget. We ask your prayerful consideration to help our department reach its reasonable goals. We are trusting God for how He will supply our needs and are ever thankful for how He has supplied for those needs in the past. For 2021, we submit a budget subsidy request of $152,500.
139 FREE LUTHERAN YOUTH (FLY) PRESIDENT To the 58th Annual Conference meeting August 10th – 12th at the Association Retreat Center (ARC), Osceola, WI. The purpose of the Free Lutheran Youth (FLY) Convention is to provide congregations with a tool for winning the lost, building the believer, and encouraging student disciplemaking in the local congregation. It is with this purpose in mind that the current FLY Committee is hard at work preparing for FLY 2021. Following the 2019 FLY Convention, which had opportunity to proclaim the truth of the great I Am to over one thousand students, we look forward to the Lord continuing to work in the lives of the next generation through His Word at FLY 2021. The current FLY Committee is made up of the following six members and three advisors:
President: Rev. Gideon Johnson First Vice President: Mr. Aaron Arneson Second Vice President: Mrs. Cassie Moan Secretary: Mrs. Julia Pillman Devotional Life Secretary: Mr. Bryce Timmerman Treasurer (appointed by the FLY Committee): Mrs. Emily Goff
FLY Convention Coordinator: Mr. Daniel Keinanen Youth Ministries Administrative Coordinator: Mrs. Chris Rasmussen Youth Board Liaison: Mrs. Sharon Rykhus
The 2021 FLY Convention is being planned for July 5-10, 2021 at the YMCA of the Rockies in Estes Park, CO. Our theme for the Convention is RESTORED and our theme verses are Revelation 21:5-7, in which the Lord begins by saying, “Behold, I am making all things new.” Even prior to a world-wide pandemic, the current FLY committee felt that this was a theme that would especially resonate with our youth. It seems that much timelier now, for it reminds us of the great hope we have when we lay hold of Jesus; the hope that is both present every day and reaches into eternity. More exciting information and details about FLY 2021 including speakers, promotional material, registration rates, etc. is forthcoming. Social media is one of the areas the 2019 FLY committee and now the 2021 committee has focused on utilizing more effectively. With this in mind, one of the best ways of staying in touch with FLY is through social media. Our website (flyconvention.org) is also one of the best resources to stay up to speed with the happenings of the convention. Not only that, but you will also find on our website useful resources from the 2019 convention. As we look forward to the 2021 FLY Convention, I would ask for you to 140 pray for the FLY Committee. Pray that as we work through all the fine details the Lord would grant us time and wisdom, sensitivity to His leading, and devotion to the great commission of Christ. Pray for the speakers who will be sharing God’s Word with our youth; that the Lord would first speak to them, while they prepare to speak to our students. Pray for the Lord’s blessing upon staff that will be assembled in the coming months and thank the Lord for their willingness to be of service to God and His kingdom in this way. Pray for the students who are already planning to come and pray for those who will be considering coming in the next months. Pray that they would be won for Christ, would be built up in Christ, and would go forth shining the light of Christ in their various spheres of influence. Thank you to all who have helped make this ministry of our Association flourish over the years. I believe I can be confident in saying that most everyone in our Association has been impacted by this ministry in one way or another. What a privilege it is to be of service to the Kingdom in this way. We pray that the Lord would continue to work mightily through us so that when He returns, He would not only find faith on earth, but would find a whole host of faithful ones both old and young.
Respectfully submitted, Rev. Gideon Johnson 2021 FLY Committee President
141 THE DIRECTOR OF YOUTH MINISTRIES To the Fifty-eighth Annual Conference of the Association of Free Lutheran Congregations, assembled at the Association Retreat Center near Osceola, Wisconsin, on August 10-12, 2020.
Luke 18:8 records our Savior King’s question, “When the Son of Man comes, will he find faith on earth?” The beginning of the same verse indicates that the Lord God Almighty is one that certainly brings justice. When questions come to the believer…if the Lord sees us, if He knows what we are going through, and if He cares…the answer is a resounding affirmation that Jesus does! No matter what we encounter on this earth, Jesus is actively working through it all. He is not sidelined by COVID-19. He is not missing out on the suffering unfolding across the globe. The Savior King that went to the tree for you and me knows suffering. The empty cross and the empty tomb declare His victory. This reality is unchanged by a pandemic. Jesus is Lord! Luke 18:1 begins this section of Scripture and uncovers the point of the persistent widow. “And he told them a parable to the effect that they ought always to pray and not lose heart.” The year 2020 will be remembered as a season that believers in Christ were called to prayer, endurance, and encouragement. This calling links to Jesus’ question – will He find faith? Will we place our confidence in Christ over our crisis? Will we put our trust in the King over the conditions? Jesus is worthy our full devotion, because His life, His grace, and His justice comes speedily. The Lord is faithful. AFLC Youth Ministries exists to win teenagers to Jesus, to build them up in God’s Word and God’s love, to equip them to live out their faith and to share their faith with others so that others may know the Lord, with the goal of multiplying maturing teen disciples of Jesus Christ. This mission links an answer to the question in Luke 18:8. By God’s Word and God’s Spirit, the Son of Man will find faith when He returns, because the faith has been passed on to each generation.
WINNING – FAITH THAT IS PERSONAL Our national youth gathering, FLY Convention®, has as its first priority to be a winning event to serve the local congregations of the AFLC. The 2021 FLY President Gideon Johnson will report on the preparations for next summer’s event. Please pray that each teen that attends may have faith in Jesus! In addition to our biennial convention, we continue to make the most of each opportunity to join congregational and district events that present the Gospel of Jesus with an invitation for teens to respond by the grace of God. As we reported in previous years, we stand ready as a youth department to participate in and to pray for your evangelistic efforts with adolescents.
142 BUILDING – FAITH THAT IS GROWING Knowing Jesus is the start and growing in the Lord is the next layer for spiritual life. AFLC Youth Ministries is available to assist your congregation’s efforts to see teens grow in Christ.
For over a decade, we have partnered with the Association Retreat Center (ARC) on their annual winter retreat: SIDExSIDE. This early February gathering for high school students provides an important setting for sharing Jesus. Five advanced youth ministry students spent months praying, planning, recruiting, and leading the effort of SIDExSIDE. We are grateful for this environment building up teens to follow the Lord.
EQUIPPING – FAITH THAT IS LIVING FLY Beyond is our national youth equipping conference. The next one will be held July 19-23, 2020 at the ARC. Please note the special start on a Sunday afternoon and ending on Thursday, in order to keep the week from impacting two weekends and to assist the ARC in their planning. Our goal of training teens is accomplished through the efforts of veteran pastors, youth leaders, and guest presenters. FLY Beyond prioritizes placing attendees in teams of six to eight. These teams meet regularly through the week to establish community through discussion of the truths presented and in prayer for personal application. Gathering around the timely theme of “Mysterious Hope” from Colossians 1:27-29, we are confident in Christ that this week will effectively equip today’s teenager in a living faith. Our department’s focus includes both equipping teens and the adults that work with them. Youth Workers Weekends (YWW) is our annual gathering for volunteer and vocational youth leaders. We were grateful to be joined last January by Bo Boshers, the national president of LEAD222. During a major Midwest storm, we still saw 39 leaders gather for the weekend. Another 24 registrants from across the country were unable to make it. Our planning team is active in its prayer and preparations for January 15- 17, 2021. Is your volunteer or vocational youth leader aware of this great opportunity? In addition, we remain very thankful for the partnership with AFLC Schools in training. During the current academic year of 2019-2020, I was asked to teach four classes at FLBC (Introduction to Youth Ministry, Introduction to Family Ministry, Youth Ministry Methods of Jesus, and Growing a Healthy Youth Ministry). This involvement continues to bear fruit in the lives of graduates in roles as parents, youth leaders, congregational members, and pastors. The Western North Dakota & Eastern Montana district has asked me to offer a training weekend for the volunteer and vocational youth leaders as well as other interested adults in their district. The dates will be October 9-10, 2020. More information will be released as the summer unfolds, but this event demonstrates one way in which the national youth department is ready to collaborate with your district for equipping. 143 MULTIPLYING – FAITH THAT IS SERVING Our Apprenticeship Program offers a 12-month congregational setting for a growing youth worker to observe and serve mentored by a veteran leader. An updated informational packet is available on our website, which outlines the responsibilities for the apprentice, for the congregation. Potential apprentices are encouraged to apply with their local congregation. For 2019-2020, the three apprentices were Ignacio Dávalos (Abiding Savior Free Lutheran, Sioux Falls SD), Jordan Frandle (Living Word Lutheran, Eagan MN), and Tyler Richardson (First Lutheran, Ellendale MN). At the time of this report, the 2020-2021 application process is open for the new season to begin in August. Through a partnership with the Free Lutheran Seminary, we are pleased to offer a modified Apprenticeship Program to seminary interns during their congregational 12-month internship. Instead of the weekly components of the full Apprenticeship Program, interns receive two monthly sessions as they learn and serve in the local congregation. Please pray for this expanding area of ministry to multiply a new generation of leaders. As we continue to be aware of our need to engage teens and youth leaders, we have been pleased to work alongside of Christ-centered ministries like the following: • Cadre Ministries (www.cadreministries.com) for Christ-centered ministry models. • Campus Alliance (www.everyschool.com) for local prayer support and school outreach. • Center for Parent/Youth Understanding (www.cpyu.org) for parent and leader tools. • Dare 2 Share (www.dare2share.org) for Gospel-advancing training with teenagers. • LEAD222 (www.lead222.org) for youth leader coaching and multiplication. • NNYM (www.youthworkers.net) for national youth leader networking. • See You At The Pole (www.syatp.com) for the national day of student prayer in Sept. Each one above has sharpened us for our national efforts to serve teenagers in knowing Jesus. We seek to remain attentive to the tools that assist the local congregational ministry to win, build, equip, and multiply teen disciples. With the impact of COVID-19, we have seen a significant increase in questions on digital communication. The following tools are a sample of ones that demonstrate specific benefits to pursuing healthy youth ministry:
Direct Connections Two common apps are GroupMe and WhatsApp. Both are motivated 144 toward quick connections. • GroupMe – www.groupme.com • WhatsApp – www.whatsapp.com
Consistent Contacting Two major options are Band and Remind. Both offer updates, calendars, and more features. • Band – www.band.us • Remind – www.remind.com
Video Conferencing Many could be listed here. AFLC Youth Ministries has used GoToMeeting for almost a decade, but it is more designed for business. Your YM may be interested in Zoom and Google Hangouts. • Google Hangouts – hangouts.google.com / FREE accessibility and familiar to many teens • Zoom – www.zoom.us / FREE 40-minute sessions for up to 100 participants At the time of this report, the AFLC Youth Board has authorized securing a branded app during 2020. With gratitude to the AFLC Foundation for a grant, this app will be offered as a FREE download to all students, parents, youth leaders, and pastors. I look forward to reporting on its functionality in next year’s report to the AFLC family.
THANK YOU It has been since 2016 that I have been able to attend Annual Conference in person. My continuing education program required attendance during 2017-2019. By God’s strength and grace, I was able to complete my studies in the Doctor of Ministry program at Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary this spring and will receive the degree in May. I want to express my sincere gratitude to the AFLC Youth Board for their encouragement and provision in attaining this degree. As of early April, the plans for Annual Conference are “on hold,” which is completely reasonable. If the Lord wills, it will be wonderful to see so many of you in person this June. If it does not turn out that way, I look forward to the next time to connect in person whether it comes at Annual Conference, in a congregational visit, or through a personal contact. Thank you to the AFLC Youth Board for your leadership and for your burden for teens to know Jesus. Thanks to each AFLC Youth Ministries’ employee: Chris Rasmussen (Administrative Coordinator), Daniel Keinanen (FLY Convention Coordinator), Jordan Langness (Training Coordinator), and Liz McCarlson (Admin Assistant).
Since the last report, we were able to secure Eric Christenson as Networking Coordinator. He served effectively from August 2019 until respectfully submitting his resignation this spring. Eric begins in June 145 as the Facilities Director for Free Lutheran Bible College and Seminary. Thank you, Eric! Dan Hurner has accepted the Networking Coordinator position and he began his part-time role in April. Dan, we look forward to serving alongside of you. Thank you to the 2019 FLY Committee and to the 2021 FLY Committee. Thank you to each of the planning teams for FLY Beyond, Youth Workers Weekends, SIDExSIDE at the ARC, and the Apprenticeship Program. These volunteer teams actively serve of our AFLC family within these important initiatives for passing on the faith. Thank you to my family – Jennifer, Micah, Magdalena, Phoebe, Susanna, Caleb and Grace. You have each encouraged me greatly in this last year. I pray for God’s rich encouragement in the faith for each of you. Thank you to my AFLC family. You are serious about God’s Word, led by God’s Spirit, and living as God’s people. I am confident in the Lord that He is answering His own question about finding faith on earth through the ministry of the AFLC. Thank you, Jesus! The first part of Luke 18:8 reminds us of the reality of His second coming. “When the Son of Man comes…” How amazing that day will be! Amen. Come, Lord Jesus! Respectfully Submitted, Rev. Jason Holt Director of Youth Ministries
146 REPORT OF THE COLLOQUY COMMITTEE
On January 20, 2020, the AFLC colloquy committee met at AFLC headquarters to interview seminary interns to discern their fitness for pastoral ministry and ordination in the AFLC.
Although Pastor Mike Brandt was elected by the conference to serve on this committee, prior work commitments prohibited him from joining us in Plymouth for the interviews. Since only five members are necessary to serve on this committee, we proceeded without Pastor Brandt. The following members were present: Pastors Kirk Flaa, Tom Olson, Ryan Tonneson, Jon Langness, and Jarrod Hylden.
We interviewed the following nine candidates: Kevin Hall, David Handsaker, Micah Klemme, Andrew Kneeland, Brian Lunn, Bryce McMinn, Seth Moan, Erin Tormanen, and Brian Westerbur.
With praise and thanksgiving to the Lord of the harvest, who sends out workers into his fields, the colloquy committee unanimously recommends all nine candidates for ordination in the AFLC.
Respectfully submitted, Rev. Jarrod Hylden (chairman)
147 2020 AFLC JOURNAL
of the 58th
ANNUAL CONFERENCE
148 MONDAY, AUGUST 10, 2020 The ordination and opening service of the 2020 AFLC Annual Confer- ence was led by Rev. Todd Klemme, Bagley, MN. Special Music was provided by Mrs. Tammy Vukonich and Mrs. Viviann Christenson. Rev. Jerry Moan, Corcoran, MN, preached on Luke 18:1-8. AFLC President Rev. Lyndon Korhonen opened the 58th AFLC Annual Conference. A time of remembrance for departed pastors was led by Assistant to the President Rev. Gary Jorgenson, Minneapolis, MN. Those remembered at the service were: Rev. John Abel Rev. Thomas L. Baker Rev. George Knapp Rev. Ronald Pulscher Rev. Kenneth Sortedahl Pastor Kenneth Thoreson Pastor Lyle Twite Pastor Roger David The AFLC Colloquy Committee report was presented by Rev. Jarrod Hylden, Beresford, MN. MSC to accept. Two men were ordained into ministry: Matthew David Abel Micah Robert Klemme Rev. Lyndon Korhonen appointed the necessary committees.
TUESDAY, AUGUST 11, 8:45AM – SESSION 1 Rev. Seth Moan, Williston, ND, led the conference in singing Turn Your Eyes Upon Jesus. He gave a devotion on 2 Corinthians 4:16-18. REPORT OF THE CREDENTIALS COMMITTEE Lay 179 Visiting Lay 2 Pastor 101 Visiting Pastor 0 Total 282
MSC to accept the Credentials Report The Chair proposed that discussion of resolutions be limited to three 149 minutes per speaker. Speakers must identify if they are for or against the resolution before they speak and speakers will be recognized in alternat- ing order. If there ceases to be alternative views on the resolution the chair will recognize all who wish to speak. This is for the purpose that no one dominates the discussion time and that there be greater opportunity for more to speak to the resolution if they so wish.
MSC to approve. MSC to adopt the Conference Agenda MSC to accept the 2019 Conference Report
REPORT OF THE NOMINATING COMMITTEE (*denotes incumbent) Missions Corporation (vote for 20) Rev. John Amundson, New Leipzig, ND Mr. Darryl Askvig, Kalispell, MT* Rev. Ray Ballmann, Kopperl, TX Mrs. Vonne Coyle, Nicollet, MN* Mr. Matthew Green, Greenbush, MN Dr. Peter Dyrud, Plymouth, MN* Rev. Luke Emerson, Saint Francis, KS Mr. Gene Finstrom, Buxton, ND* Mrs. Karen Hart, Fairbury, NE Rev. Micah Hjermstad, West Fargo, ND* Mrs. Mary Jo Jackson, Versailles, MO Mr. Michael Jackson, Versailles, MO Mr. Ron Jorgenson, Lidgerwood, ND** Rev. John Kiehl, Metropolis, IL Mr. Vince Larson, Buffalo, ND* Mr. Brian Lee, Ray, ND Dr. Lyle Mattson, Greenbush, MN* Rev. Ken Moland, Graham, NC* Rev. David Nelson, Badger, MN* Mrs. Phyllis Nikunen, Clarion, IA* Rev. Kris Nyman, Hagerstown, MD* Rev. Joe Ocker, Frost, MN* Pastor Mark Olson, Winsted, MN* Mr. Mark Riley, Bethel Park, PA Rev. Nick Schultz, Kirkland, WA Mrs. Wanita Sletten, Duluth, MN* Miss Jessica Smith, Chamberlain, SD Rev. Ronald Smith, Brookings, SD Mr. James Thompson, Janesville, WI Mrs. Joan Thompson, Janesville, WI Mrs. Marilyn Wagner, Minto, ND 150 Rev. Todd Klemme, Bagley, MN Rev. Jerome Nikunen, Clarion, IA MSC Nominations cease. Balloting followed. Schools Corporation (vote for 10) Mr. Myron Anker, Shakopee, MN Rev. Alan Arneson, Fosston, MN* Mr. Scott Bauer, Stover, MO Rev. Brett Boe, Shakopee, MN* Mr. Cory Buck, Sioux Falls, SD* Mr. Loiell Dyrud, Thief River Falls, MN* Mr. Gary Erickson, Dalton, MN* Mr. Joel Erickson, Oslo, MN Rev. Kirk Flaa, Sioux Falls, SD* Mr. Matthew Greven, Newark, IL Mr. David Haugen, Pelican Rapids, MN* Mrs. Susan Hughes, Bethel Park, PA Rev. James R. Johnson, Fergus Falls, MN* Rev. Rodney Johnson, Stanley, ND Rev. Andrew Kneeland, St. Louis, MO Rev. Brian Lunn, Upsala, MN Pastor Michael McCarlson, Webster, SD* Rev. Matthew Nelson, Radcliffe, IA Mr. Brent Peterson, Valley City, ND* Rev. Ryan Tonneson, Moorhead, MN Rev. Sam Wellumson, East Grand Forks, MN MSC Nominations cease. Balloting followed. ARC Corporation (vote for 10) Mr. Roger Benson, Brooklyn Center, MN* Mrs. Mary Ann Christenson, Laurel, NE Mr. Stanley Christenson, Osceola, WI* Mr. Michael Coyle, Nicollet, MN* Mr. Ernie Hilbert, Wheatland, IA* Mr. Donny Jones, Willmar, MN Mrs. Nancy Langness, Ishpeming, MI* Mr. Denis Parsley, Pipestone, MN* Mrs. Robyn Pelehos, Cannon Falls, MN Mr. Roger Quanbeck, Hallock, MN* Mr. Brian Rice, Williston, ND MSC Nominations cease. Balloting followed. The report of the President was presented by Rev. Lyndon Korhonen, Plymouth, MN. MSC to receive. 151 The report of the Co-ordinating Committee Chairman was presented by Dr. Dan Mundfrom, Loveland, CO. MSC to receive. The report of the Director of Development was presented by Rev. Tonnes Pollestad, Andover, MN. MSC to receive. The report of the AFLC Foundation Chairman was presented by Rev. Tim Johnson, Pipestone, MN. MSC to receive. The report of the Director of Institutional Chaplaincy was presented by Rev. Marlin Harris, Mora, MN. MSC to receive. The report of the Director of Police & Fire Chaplaincy was presented by Rev. Jon Benson, Newark, IL. MSC to receive. The report of the Director of Military Chaplaincy was presented by Rev. Craig Benson, Morris, IL. MSC to receive. The report of the Director of the ARC was presented by Mr. Kirk Rautio, Osceola, WI. MSC to receive. The AFLC Financial Report was presented by Mrs. Katie Johnson, Min- neapolis, MN. MSC to receive. MSC to receive the Lake Bronson Bible Camp report. The report of the AFLC Wilderness Bible Camp was presented by Mrs. Amy Dalager, Argyle, MN. MSC to receive.
The report of Bethany Bible Camp was presented by Rev. Alan Arneson, Fosston, MN. 152 MSC to receive. The report of the Budget Analysis Committee was presented by Mr. Steve Jankord, Fort Mill, SC.
MSC to receive. The report of the Chairman of AED was presented by Mr. Kevin Hoops, Byron, NE. MSC to receive. The report of the Director of AED was presented by Rev. Randy Nelson, Brooklyn Park, MN. MSC to receive. MSC to receive the report of the Benefits Board. Rev. Todd Erickson, Roseau, MN, presented on behalf of AFLC Schools. MSC to receive the report from the President of AFLC Schools. MSC to receive the report from the Board of Trustees Chairman and Vi- sion. MSC to receive the report from the Dean of the Seminary. MSC to receive the report from the Dean of FLBC. Recess for a short break.
REPORT OF THE NOMINATING COMMITTEE (*Denotes Incumbent)
Board of Trustees (Pastor, 5 year) Rev. Jason Gudim, Golden Valley, MN Rev. Jon Wellumson, Williston, ND Rev. Kirk Flaa, Sioux Falls, SD MSC close nominations
World Missions Committee (Lay, 5 year) Mr. Steve Deysher, Fleetwood, PA* Mr. Hans Tanner, Fargo, ND MSC close nominations
153 Home Missions Committee (Pastor, 5 year) Rev. Andy Coyle, Summerset, SD Rev. Gerald Peterson, Durant, OK* MSC close nominations
FLAPS (Lay, 5 year) Mr. Jordan Rumohr, Monticello, MN Mr. Lavon Bohling, Inman, KS* MSC close nominations
Bay Broadcasting (Lay, 3 year) Mr. Benjamin Dahl, Coeur d’Alene, ID MSC close nominations
ARC Board (Lay, 5 year) Mr. Chad Rieschl, Brooklyn Park, MN* Mr. Kermit Berge, Larimore, ND MSC close nominations
ELECTION RESULTS Missions Corporation Rev. Micah Hjermstad, West Fargo, ND* - 173 Mr. Ron Jorgenson, Lidgerwood, ND** - 166 Rev. Joe Ocker, Frost, MN* - 161 Dr. Lyle Mattson, Greenbush, MN* - 150 Rev. David Nelson, Badger, MN* - 149 Dr. Peter Dyrud, Plymouth, MN* - 147 Mr. Gene Finstrom, Buxton, ND* - 136 Rev. Kris Nyman, Hagerstown, MD* - 120 Rev. Todd Klemme, Bagley, MN - 118 Mrs. Wanita Sletten, Duluth, MN* - 117 Mrs. Vonne Coyle, Nicollet, MN* - 113 Rev. Ken Moland, Graham, NC* - 111 Pastor Mark Olson, Winsted, MN* - 110 Mr. Darryl Askvig, Kalispell, MT* - 104 Rev. Ray Ballmann, Kopperl, TX - 97 Mrs. Phyllis Nikunen, Clarion, IA* - 87 Rev. Nick Schultz, Kirkland, WA - 84 Rev. Luke Emerson, Saint Francis, KS - 83 Rev. Jerome Nikunen, Clarion, IA - 79 Rev. John Amundson, New Leipzig, ND - 78 Mr. Vince Larson, Buffalo, ND* - 75 Mr. Brian Lee, Ray, ND - 75 154 Mr. Matthew Green, Greenbush, MN - 72 Mr. James Thompson, Janesville, WI - 70 Rev. Ronald Smith, Brookings, SD - 69 Mrs. Karen Hart, Fairbury, NE - 67 Mr. Mark Riley, Bethel Park, PA - 66 Miss Jessica Smith, Chamberlain, SD - 66 Mrs. Joan Thompson, Janesville, WI - 59 Mrs. Marilyn Wagner, Minto, ND - 57 Mr. Michael Jackson, Versailles, MO - 53 Mrs. Mary Jo Jackson, Versailles, MO - 47 Rev. John Kiehl, Metropolis, IL - 45 Mr. Ralph Peterson, Portland, ND - 13 Schools Corporation Rev. Alan Arneson, Fosston, MN* - 175 Mr. Gary Erickson, Dalton, MN* - 151 Mr. Cory Buck, Sioux Falls, SD* - 149 Rev. Brett Boe, Shakopee, MN* - 141 Mr. Loiell Dyrud, Thief River Falls, MN* - 124 Rev. James R. Johnson, Fergus Falls, MN* - 119 Mr. Brent Peterson, Valley City, ND* - 118 Pastor Michael McCarlson, Webster, SD* - 109 Rev. Kirk Flaa, Sioux Falls, SD* - 104 Mr. David Haugen, Pelican Rapids, MN* - 100 Rev. Andrew Kneeland, St. Louis, MO - 86 Rev. Ryan Tonneson, Moorhead, MN - 81 Mr. Joel Erickson, Oslo, MN - 70 Rev. Rodney Johnson, Stanley, ND - 68 Rev. Brian Lunn, Upsala, MN - 67 Mrs. Susan Hughes, Bethel Park, PA - 63 Mr. Matthew Greven, Newark, IL - 62 Rev. Sam Wellumson, East Grand Forks, MN - 57 Rev. Matthew Nelson, Radcliffe, IA - 52 Mr. Myron Anker, Shakopee, MN - 30 Mr. Scott Bauer, Stover, MO - 30 ARC Corporation Mr. Denis Parsley, Pipestone, MN* - 182 Mr. Roger Benson, Brooklyn Center, MN* - 178 Mrs. Nancy Langness, Ishpeming, MI* - 178 Mr. Roger Quanbeck, Hallock, MN* - 165 Mr. Stanley Christenson, Osceola, WI* - 163 Mr. Michael Coyle, Nicollet, MN* - 152 Mr. Ernie Hilbert, Wheatland, IA* - 146 Mr. Brian Rice, Williston, ND - 139 Mrs. Mary Ann Christenson, Laurel, NE - 126 Mrs. Robyn Pelehos, Cannon Falls, MN - 121 Mr. Donny Jones, Willmar, MN - 113
155 The report of the World Missions Committee Chairman was presented by Mr. Scott Erickson, Plymouth, MN, on behalf of Rev. Craig Johnson, Astoria, OR. MSC to receive.
The report of the World Missions Director was presented by Rev. Earl Korhonen, Plymouth, MN. MSC to receive. A video was played about the work of AFLC Home Missions. MSC to receive the report of the Chairman of the Home Missions Com- mittee Chairman. MSC to receive the report of the Home Missions Director. The report of the FLAPS Executive Director was presented by Dr. Kevin Lee, Beulah, ND. MSC to receive. The report of the WMF President was presented by Mrs. Anne Presteng, Grafton, ND, on behalf of Mrs. LaVonne West, Columbia Falls, MT. MSC to receive. The report of the Youth Board Chairman was presented by Mr. Adam McCarlson, Sioux Falls, SD, on behalf of Rev. Eric Rassmussen, Fergus Falls, MN. MSC to receive. The report of the Free Lutheran Youth President was presented by Rev. Gideon Johnson, Kenyon, MN. MSC to receive. The report of the Youth Ministry Director was presented by Rev. Jason Holt, St. Michael, MN. MSC to receive. The prayer time was led by Rev. Randy Nelson, Brooklyn Park, MN.
156 TUESDAY, AUGUST 11, 4PM – SESSION 2 Mr. Andrew Hanson led the conference in two songs. Rev. Micah Kl- emme, Melvin, IL, led the Conference in devotions from 1 Corinthians 15:56-58.
REPORT OF THE CREDENTIALS COMMITTEE Lay 192 Visiting Lay 3 Pastor 111 Visiting Pastor 0 Total 306 MSC to accept the Credentials Report Mrs. Marian Christopherson, McVille, ND, presented on the work of Ambassador Publications. MSC to receive the report of the Chairman of Publications and Parish Ed. MSC to receive the report of the Director of Publications and Parish Ed. A nominating ballot was received for AFLC Vice-President. A nominating ballot was received for AFLC Secretary.
RESOLUTIONS FOR COMMITTEE #1 - Administration Committee Members: Roger VanSomeren, Amery, WI (Chairman); Jean Sheldon, Williston, ND; Sam Willard, Plymouth, MN; Ron Brubakken, Argyle WI; Steve Fischer, Argyle, WI
THANK YOUS We thank the following people: Special thanks to Karen Floan for years of service as the secretary of the AFLC President. Thank God for guiding Chanel Pederson to fill that position and for the excellent way she has begun serving there. Thank you to Lowell Watt for serving two 5-year terms on the Coordinat- ing committee. This is the limit, and he is not eligible for re-election. Praise God for his provision. Our Development Department reported that 2019 ended with ROI of 7.6 to 1, which is above the national average.
Thank you to Chaplain Kerwin Sletto, who just retired in May, for his 37 years of faithful service as a Pastor and Chaplain.
157 Thank you to Mark Antal for his many years of service as a Pastor, Army Chaplain and our Director of Military Chaplains. Thank God for 40 years of ministry here at the ARC, where we are all so blessed to be.
Thank you to the BAC and those who have built our guidelines that en- able us to be good stewards of what God has given us. Thank you all for all you have done in service. Mrs. Nancy Staudinger, Tamarack, MN, asked what was meant by bullet point #4. Rev. Brubakken explained that the Development Department has taken in more money than it has spent at a ratio of 7.6 to 1. AFLC President Lyndon Korhonen summarized what Rev. Pollestad reported earlier regarding that ratio.
RESOLUTIONS 1. WHEREAS our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ calls all his followers to live in harmony and be of one mind, namely the mind of Christ; and that the benefits of harmony both glorify God and allow us to work together efficiently, BE IT RESOLVED that all AFLC congregations and members will pray for the unity of the church and commit themselves to building and keep- ing harmony with one another by focusing on our common blessings in Jesus Christ as declared in God’s Holy Word. MS to adopt. Resolution Carried. 2. WHEREAS God calls his people to care for the orphan and widow, visit the sick and those in prison, and our neighbor in his need; and all are called to grow in service to their neighbor, BE IT RESOLVED that congregations commit to encouraging their members to attend events like the Annual Chaplain’s Seminar which train lay people and Pastors to visit shut-ins and those in need, or similar types of events as available in their region. MS to adopt. Rev. Shane McGlaughlin, Minot, ND, shared that we continue to do this, trusting God who wins the victory.
Resolution Carried. 3. WHEREAS subsidy receipts have decreased in the last two years for 158 all departments, and budget subsidy requests are exceeding previous year receipts by margins beyond BAC guidelines, BE IT RESOLVED that the conference follow BAC guidelines in ap- proving or denying budget subsidy requests.
MS to adopt. Rev. David Johnson, Boyertown, PA, pointed out that the resolution ap- pears to be binding, which would dictate the rest of the subsidy votes. Dr. Lyle Westrom, Crookston, MN, stated that any resolution at this con- ference cannot be binding. A friendly amendment was made to strike the word “follow,” and replace it with “consider.” New Resolution: BE IT RESOLVED that the conference consider BAC guidelines in ap- proving or denying budget subsidy requests. Resolution Carried. 4. WHEREAS the Pastor and Congregational Care Team (PACCT), which supports pastors, their spouses, and congregations through couples committed to providing soul care to pastors and congregations, is a rela- tively new ministry, BE IT RESOLVED that all AFLC congregations are encouraged to promote and raise awareness of this ministry that it may be used for the spiritual health of pastors and members. MS to adopt. Rev. Tim Johnson, Pipestone, MN, encouraged people to take advantage of this ministry. Rev. Jerry Nelson, Lacrosse, WI, spoke in favor of the resolution and explained how pastors and congregations can contact the Care Team. Rev. Ron Brubakken, Argyle, WI, spoke in favor of the resolution. He shared how the team has helped him and his wife through difficult medi- cal circumstances. Resolution Carried.
Rev. Micah Hjermstad, Fargo, ND, stated that there needs to be a reso- lution to approve the subsidy request for the Coordinating Committee. 159 Committee #1 was instructed to meet and draft the resolution and report back to the Conference.
PRAYER REQUESTS We pray for the following:
Pray that God would call twenty men to full time ministry and to be pre- pared for ordination through our seminary. Pray that God would call twenty men to serve as lay preachers of God’s Word. Pray that God would begin preparing the man he has in mind to serve as AFLC President after Lyndon Korhonen. Thank God for the grants that were filled through the AFLC Foundation, and pray that the Foundation Development Fund would reach the goal of filling an endowment fund for the Development Department. Pray for our military chaplain, Colonel John Eidsmoe, serving in the State Guard in Mississippi, and for his wife Marlene. Pray that God would preserve him and empower him to be a faithful voice of God’s Word in the State Guard. Pray that God will continue to provide for the needs of the ARC, for their staff, and for those He will draw here to hear the Gospel of Jesus Christ. Pray that God would provide for all our needs and would give us wisdom and discernment to use what He provides and to recognize new opportu- nities for the Gospel of Jesus Christ in the middle of trials. Rev. Micah Hjermstad, Fargo, ND, prayed for these requests.
ELECTION RESULTS AFLC Vice President Rev. Terry Olson – 179 Rev. Tim Johnson – 3 Rev. James R. Johnson – 3 Rev. Irvin Schmitke – 2 Rev. Gary Jorgenson – 2 Rev. Alan Arneson – 1 Rev. Craig Benson – 1 Rev. Tonnes Pollestad – 1 Rev. Brett Boe – 1 Rev. Cal Willard – 1 Rev. Lloyd Quanbeck – 1 Rev. Andy Coyle – 1 Rev. Rick Long – 1 160 Rev. Paul Nash – 1 Jeremy Olson – 1 Rev. Terry Olson, Grafton, ND, was elected AFLC Vice-President. AFLC Secretary Rev. Micah Hjermstad – 195 Rev. Brian Davidson – 2 Rev. Chad Friestad – 1 Rev. Jason Gudim – 1 Rev. Jerry Moan – 1 Rev. Mark Olson – 1 Rev. Joel Rolf – 1 Rev. Todd Erickson – 1 2 ballots were spoiled Rev. Micah Hjermstad, Fargo, ND, was elected AFLC Secretary.
Report of the Nominating Committee AFLC Coordinating Committee (Lay, 5 year) Mr. Ivar Berge, Fargo, ND Mr. David Olson, Sioux Falls, SD MSC Nominations Cease. Balloting followed.
2021 Committee #1 – Administration Rev. Karl Anderson, McIntosh, MN Rev. Ryan Tonneson, Moorhead, MN Mr. Bruce Stoudt, Boyertown, PA Mr. Stephen Quanbeck, Brooklyn Park, MN Mr. David Efteland, Bloomington, MN MSC to cast a unanimous ballot.
ELECTION RESULTS AFLC Coordinating Committee (Lay, 5 year) Mr. Ivar Berge, Fargo, ND - 172 Mr. David Olson, Sioux Falls, SD - 31
RESOLUTIONS FOR COMMITTEE #5 – Evangelism and Benefits Committee Members: Stanley Strong, Blackduck, MN (Chairman); Pr. David Johnson, Boyertown, PA (Secretary); Bruce Sellent, Almena, WI; Pr. Craig Wentzel, Edmore, ND
THANK YOUS On behalf of the AFLC Evangelism and Discipleship (AED) Ministry 161 and Benefits Board, we give thanks to God for the following: Pastor Randy Nelson, and his wife Brenda, as he begins his new ministry with AED; Pastor Jim Rasmussen, and his wife Jane, as he completes many years of faithful service to AED; the Coordinating Committee; Lyndon Korhonen, Tonnes Pollestad, Chris Rasmussen, Liz McCarlson, Katie Johnson, and Chanel Pederson; and all who have assisted the AED this past ministry year; Pastor Rich Ramsbacher for his years of service to the AED Board; Current serving members of the AFLC Evangelism and Discipleship Ministry and the Benefits Board; Help in Service (HIS) Fund that has assisted pastors and their families in financial needs in two situations; All who support the AFLC Evangelism and Discipleship Ministry and the Benefits Board through prayer and financial support, especially the Soul Mates who have pledged monthly support for the AED. Mr. Stan Strong, Blackduck, MN, expressed thanksgiving for the time that Rev. Randy Nelson spent with the committee to discuss the AED department.
RESOLUTIONS 1. WHEREAS in Matthew 28, Jesus commands that we, “Make disciples of all nations...”; AND WHEREAS many churches have no intentional process for personal training designed to disciple and assimilate believ- ers; AND WHEREAS when disciples make disciples, healthy congregations are a result; BE IT RESOLVED that we encourage every congregation in the AFLC to consider implementing discipleship training for their laity in order that they would “go and make disciples” (Matt. 28:19); BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that we encourage every congregation in the AFLC to utilize the faithful resources of the AFLC Evangelism and Discipleship Ministry. MS to adopt. Rev. Steve Berntson, Jamestown, ND, asked whether the resources refer- enced include the Ralph Rittenhouse material that was used at the Home Missions Retreat.
162 Rev. Nelson said that it is included. Resolution Carried. 2. WHEREAS, the Bible teaches that God is “well-pleased through the foolishness of the message preached to save those who believe” (1 Corinthians 1:21); and Ephesian 4:12-13 challenges God’s leadership to “equip the saints for the work of service, to the building up of the body of Christ”; AND WHEREAS the fundamental Principles also urge congregations to gladly accept “The mutual assistance which congregations can give one another in the work for the advancement of the Kingdom of God,” BE IT RESOLVED that the Annual Conference encourages congrega- tions to pray, plan, prepare and then invite Lutheran evangelists, pastors, and gospel-centered teachers (Eph. 4:11) for special evangelistic and discipleship services aimed at reaching lost souls for salvation through Christ Jesus while encouraging and training the saved in their spiritual walk with Christ. MS to adopt. Rev. Tom Tuura, Stover, MO, expressed thanksgiving that this resolution speaks to the desire of the AFLC to continue to proclaim the Word of God. He commented that he is thankful for the work that the Conference is doing this week. Rev. David Johnson, Boyertown, PA, clarified that the intent of this reso- lution is to bring back evangelistic meetings on a more regular basis. Resolution Carried. 3. WHEREAS the Holy Scriptures exhorts “So then, as we have oppor- tunity, let us do good to everyone, and especially those who are of the household of faith” (Gal. 6:10), AND WHEREAS the Pastoral and Congregational Care Team (PACCT) has been established to support pastors, their wives, and congregations for encouragement; AND WHEREAS during this time of pandemic crisis, we have seen an increase in both pastoral and congregational stress leading to conflict, illness, and psychological/emotional overwhelm; AND WHEREAS a fund has been created where our people can finan- cially participate in the team’s ministry, BE IT RESOLVED that we encourage every congregation in the AFLC 163 to prayerfully consider utilizing PACCT “prevention, intervention, and recovery” resources and possibly contribute to the PACCT fund. MS to adopt. Resolution Carried.
4. WHEREAS the Holy Scriptures teach: “Let the elders who rule well be considered worthy of double-honor, especially those who labor in preaching and teaching. For the Scripture says, ‘You shall not muzzle an ox when it treads out the grain’ and, ‘The laborer deserves his wages” (1 Tim. 5:17, 18); AND WHEREAS the Benefits Board provides the AFLC 401K Retire- ment Plan as a means of fulfilling these biblical principles, BE IT RESOLVED the congregations and pastors of the AFLC are en- couraged to participate in the AFLC 401K Retirement plan. MS to adopt. Resolution Carried. 5. WHEREAS the theme of the 2020 Annual Conference is “Will He Find Faith” (Luke 18:8), and the purpose of evangelism and discipleship is that we nurture and support faith in Christ and His kingdom in carrying out the Great Commission; AND WHEREAS, the AFLC Evangelism and Discipleship Ministry is unique in that it is 100% funded through gifts and contributions from congregations and individual donors; AND WHEREAS, The AED is pursuing the much needed development of in-house produced Evangelism and Discipleship materials; BE IT RESOLVED, that each congregation and every individual prayer- fully consider supporting the AFLC Evangelism and Discipleship Minis- try through prayer and finances, AND BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that after prayerful consideration, we approve the subsidy request for 2021 of $131,200. MS to adopt. Mr. Steve Jankord, Fort Mill, SC, spoke in favor of the motion. He pointed out that this falls within the recommended amount of subsidy request from the BAC.
Rev. Randy Nelson, Brooklyn Park, MN, thanked Steve Jankord for his work with the department. He also mentioned a few special projects that 164 need some extra funding. Resolution Carried.
PRAYER REQUESTS The AFLC Evangelism and Discipleship Committee and the Benefits Board has requested that we pray for the following: Pr. Randy Nelson and the ongoing work of the AED and the Benefits Board, that God’s wisdom and blessing would guide and sustain them. The ongoing ministry of the PACCT as they support pastors, their wives, and congregations. That the ministry of the AED expressed in our theme, “Will He Find Faith,” be found in each AFLC congregation as members faithfully share the Gospel of Jesus Christ boldly with the lost around them. That more congregations of the AFLC would be intentional and obedi- ent in making disciples by mentoring, prayer, personal witnessing, and studying the Bible together. Rev. David Johnson prayed for the above requests. The Conference recessed for the day.
At the Mission Festival Service on Tuesday night, Rev. Brent Raan, AFLC Missionary to Uganda, shared the message. Eight congregations were recognized as graduating from Home Missions.
WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 12, 8:30AM – SESSION 3 Rev. Erin Tormanen, Stanley, ND, led the Conference in devotions on Colossians 4. REPORT OF THE CREDENTIALS COMMITTEE Lay 193 Visiting Lay 3 Pastor 112 Visiting Pastor 0 Total 308 MSC to accept the Credentials Report
Col. John Eidsmoe and Rev. Jeff Duncan shared about the ministry of Lutherans for Life. 165 Report of the Nominating Committee AED – AFLC Evangelism and Discipleship Board (Pastor, 5 year) Rev. Patrick Lohse, Morris, IL Rev. Matthew Quanbeck, Laurel, NE Rev. Ron Smith, Brookings, SD
MSC to close nominations. Balloting Followed.
Benefits Board (Pastor, 5 year) Rev. Ken Moland, Graham, NC MSC to close nominations and cast a unanimous ballot.
2021 Committee #5 – Evangelism/Benefits Rev. Dr. Steve Lombardo, Yorkville, IL Rev. Jim Rasmussen, Maple Grove, MN Mr. Jeremy Nelson, Shakopee, MN Mr. Flint McLoughlin, Minot, ND Mr. Scott Carmichael, Saint Francis, KS MSC to close nominations and cast a unanimous ballot.
2021 NOMINATING COMMITTEE Central Tri-State Ms. Molly Barsness, Kenyon, MN Rev. Matthew W. Nelson, Radcliffe, IA
Eastern Rev. David Johnson, Boyertown, PA Mrs. Joan Culler, Hagerstown, MD
Eastern North Dakota Mr. Jeremy Zeltinger, Valley City, ND Mr. Gene Finstrom, Buxton, ND
Illinois Mr. James Thompson, Janesville, WI
Lake Superior Rev. David Handsaker, Cloquet, MN
Minneapolis Rev. Brett Boe, Shakopee, MN Mr. Jim Berge, Maple Grove, MN
Nebraska Kansas Colorado Rev. Ken Hart, Fairbury, NE 166 North Central Minnesota Mrs. Angie Berg, Bemidji, MN Rev. Joel Kangas, Beltrami, MN
Northern Michigan Rev. Dave Ryerson, Ishpeming, MI
Northwestern Minnesota Mr. Emory Flaten, Newfolden, MN
Pacific Northwest Rev. Cal Willard, Everett, WA
South Central Mrs. Judy Rehmer, Cole Camp, MO
South Dakota Mr. Iver Heier, Prairie City, SD Rev. Kirk Thorson, Sioux Falls, SD
West Central Minnesota Rev. Rick Larson, Ortonville, MN Rev. Brian Lunn, Upsala, MN
Southwestern Mrs. Alicia Langness, Thousand Oaks, CA
Western North Dakota – Eastern Montana Mrs. Karen Pederson, Tioga, ND Mr. Seth Larson, Beulah, ND A question was asked about the workload of the Nominating Committee. Rev. Ken Hart and Rev. Cal Willard explained what the job looks like throughout the year. MSC to close nominations and cast a unanimous ballot for those districts with only one nomination. The Head Teller prepared a ballot for the dis- tricts requiring an election.
RESOLUTIONS FOR COMMITTEE #2 - Schools Committee Members: Bill Fish, Everett, WA (Chairman); Joel Erickson, East Grand Forks, MN; Paul Welsch, Amery, WI; Flint McLoughlin, Minot, ND (Secretary)
THANK YOUS We would like to express our appreciation and gratitude to the following: The building committee members for all their hard work in moving the 167 Student Life Center project forward, Reverend Lloyd Quanbeck for his ten years of service on the Board of Trustees, Wayne Floan for his faithful service as the Facilities Director,
Dr. Mark Olson for his invaluable work on the accreditation program, Marilee Johnson for her many years of service as administrative assistant to the Dean of the Seminary.
RESOLUTIONS 1. WHEREAS the aim of the AFLC is to encourage the work of free and living Lutheran congregations, and the Free Lutheran Bible College and Seminary was established to train men and women for congregational ministry and leadership in and through these free and living Lutheran congregations, AND WHEREAS the outcome of this training has the potential to strengthen, improve, and amplify the ministry of AFLC congregations, thus equipping current and future generations to reach souls for Christ in fulfillment of the Great Commission, AND WHEREAS God has provided facilities, resources, and person- nel to provide his training with the dual stewardship goals of efficiency and excellence, with capacity for 35% larger enrollment at FLBC, and congregations will be well served by more men and women trained for Christian work in and through the congregation, BE IT RESOLVED that we encourage the AFLC conference, AFLC con- gregations, Schools Corporation members, and Schools administration/ faculty/staff to pray for and work positively toward filling the current FLBCS campus with 150 students in three (3) years (by the fall of 2023). BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that we encourage the AFLC Annual Conference, AFLC congregations, Schools Corporation members, and Schools administration/faculty/staff to pray for and work positively work toward an average enrollment of eight (8) students over the next five (5) years at the Free Lutheran Seminary (40 total students by the fall of 2025). MS to adopt. Rev. Korhonen fixed a few typos in the resolution.
Rev. Don Richman, Bloomington, MN, stated that we are in a state of crisis. Our number of congregations and our number of pastors are in decline. He called the Conference to pray for these two concerns. Rev. 168 James Molstre led the Conference in prayer for our Seminary. Rev. Terry Olson led the Conference in prayer for our congregations. Rev. Lyndon Korhonen, Plymouth, MN, expressed concern that the wording regarding our need to increase Seminary enrollment. He won- dered whether it meant that we are supposed to start recruiting seminary students, when that has been a concern in the past. Rev. Steve Berntson, Jamestown, ND, asked why it sounds like we are asking for classes of eight students every year, when earlier it had been mentioned that we want to pray for 20 students in one class. Rev. John Kiehl, Metropolis, IL, commented that we can be praying for both numbers. Rev. David Johnson, Boyertown, PA, said that he doesn’t think the word- ing is inappropriate. It is our job, he said, to encourage young men in their call. Resolution carried. 2. WHEREAS the Board of Trustees requests a subsidy of $280,756 for the seminary and $537,477 for the Bible College for the 2021 calender year, BE IT RESOLVED that this subsidy request be approved. MS to adopt. Mr. Steve Jankord, Fort Mill, SC, pointed out that this subsidy request falls within the BAC guidelines which were approved at a previous con- ference. Rev. Alan Arneson asked for a friendly amendment to change the word- ing from “Bible School” to “Bible College.” Resolution Carried. Rev. Don Richman, Bloomington, MN, asked for an update on the Schools Building Project. He was encouraged to attend one of the school’s electives this afternoon.
PRAYER REQUESTS We ask that congregations and individuals be in prayer for: The Student Life Center- praise for God’s provision to allow for con- struction to begin, and prayer for His provision to bring the project to completion.
169 For our schools to remain faithful to teach the whole counsel of God, Law and Gospel, For students to enroll in our two-year Bible college, For men to answer the call of the Lord upon their hearts to come and train to be a servant pastor, For FLBCS as they reopen for the new school year following the CO- VID-19 shutdown. Rev. Alan Arneson, Fosston, MN, asked for prayer for Wayne Floan and his health. Rev. Lloyd Quanbeck, Moorhead, MN, asked for prayer for God to con- tinue to provide financially for the School’s building project. Mrs. Becky Abel, Curitiba, Brazil, asked for prayer for the administra- tion, faculty, and staff. Rev. Wade Mobley, Plymouth, MN, asked for prayer for them as they search for a replacement for Andrew Abel. We are grateful for his years of service. Rev. Lloyd Quanbeck, Moorhead, MN, led the Conference in prayer. A ballot was distributed for the districts which required a vote for the 2021 Nominating Committee.
ELECTION RESULTS AED (Pastor, 5 year) Rev. Matthew Quanbeck – 126 Rev. Ron Smith – 23 Rev. Patrick Lohse - 7
Report of the Nominating Committee 2021 Committee #2 – Schools Rev. Kevin Czymbor, Armour, SD Rev. Kirk Flaa, Sioux Falls, SD Mrs. Diana Richardson, Faith, SD Miss Alison Mundfrom, Crystal, MN Mrs. Ruth Rautio, Osceola, WI
MSC to close nominations and cast a unanimous ballot.
170 Resolutions for Committee #3 – Missions Committee Members: Pastor Tom W. Olson, Ederlin, ND (Chairman); Mr. Joe Frech, Minneapolis, MN; Mr. Shane Clark, Canal Winchester, OH; Pastor Shane McLoughlin, Minot, ND (Secretary)
THANK YOUS On behalf of World Missions we thank the following people: The past and current Committee members; AFLC World Missions Direc- tor Earl and Joan Korhonen; Wanda Jacobson, our office manager; Jon Nelson and his wife Heidi, with Journey Missions; Short Term Assis- tants; Ambassador Institute; as well as those who have supported the work of AFLC World Missions. We thank God for the number of countries the AFLC has ministered in and are excited for the opportunities in Switzerland, Paraguay, and Mon- golia. On behalf of Home Missions we thank the following people: Past and current Committee members, Pastor Jim Johnson, Haley Th- ramer, and the 2020 Barnabas team. We give thanks for the six Churches Starts planted in the last year; Work in Alaska – Jeff and Jane Swanson and their family; FLAPS – for Jeremy, Lacey, and Malachi Crowell and Bob and Margaret Lee for their 10 years of faithful service in Alaska, Loren Tungseth, And the new publication, The Church Planter The Impact of The WMF and their support and impact around the world The cooperation of the Missions Boards and Emmaus in the work of the Chinese Church Plant Rev. Adam Osier expressed concern that we be clear about the fact that any implication that summer team members “ran away or stayed home” is false. The summer team ministry had to be cancelled due to COVID, and we need to be careful that the tone doesn’t come across that we think the other FLBC students “ran away.” That wording was struck. Rev. Cal Willard requested that we add Lacey Crowell and Malachi to the list of people to thank. Rev. Paul Nash requested that we add Loren Tungseth to the list of people to thank.
RESOLUTIONS 1. WHEREAS the World Missions is requesting a subsidy for 2021 of $432,000 for World Missions and $762,000 for Personal Support, total- ing $1,194,000.
171 BE IT RESOLVED that we approve these subsidy requests. MS to adopt. Mr. Steve Jankord, Fort Mill, SC, expressed that this subsidy request falls within the BAC guidelines as approved by the Annual Conference. He also asked the question of whether it’s sustainable to continue to greatly increase the Personal Support, compared to other ministries. Resolution Carried. 2. WHEREAS previous Conferences have resolved to see the Alaska Mission become self-sustaining and WHEREAS the Home Missions Department has subsidized the Alaska Mission to the amount of $17,496 in 2019 BE IT RESOLVED that the Home Missions continue to strive for Alaska to become self-sustaining. MS to adopt. Mr. Steve Jankord, Fort Mill, SC, explained that the BAC has not been aware of this subsidy. Rev. Shane McLaughin, Minot, ND, explained that Committee #3 no- ticed in last year’s Conference notes that this had been brought up and the committee’s desire was simply to affirm that work. Rev. Tim Johnson, Pipestone, MN, said that it might be more clear to make a friendly amendment to strike “AFLC” in the resolution as the one who subsidizes Alaska, and replace it with Home Missions. Rev. Todd Klemme, Bagley, MN, asked if there is a deadline for Alaska to be self-sufficient. A Home Missions replied that there is no deadline. Mr. Stan Strong, Blackduck, MN, said he is a little confused that we wonder whether they will strive. Of course they will. Mr. Tom Caouette, Brainerd, MN, asked whether we need this resolution. He said that this subsidy is already included in the main Home Missions subsidy request. He is also uncomfortable with the wording “self-sustain- ing.” Rev. Steve Berntson, Jamestown, ND, agreed with Tom Caouette that this resolution is not very helpful.
Resolution Defeated.
172 Recess for coffee break 3. WHEREAS the Home Missions is focusing on New Church Starts and revitalizing Congregations; BE IT RESOLVED that AFLC Congregations pray, support and work towards the planting of New Churches. MS to adopt. Rev. David Johnson, Boyertown, PA, spoke in favor of the resolution and that there is benefit to the mothering church also. Mr. Stan Strong, Blackduck, MN, asked that we add the word “pray” to the Be it resolved section. Resolution Carried. 4. WHEREAS Home Missions is requesting $391,000 subsidy: BE IT RESOLVED that we approve these subsidy requests. MS to adopt. Mr. Steve Jankord, Fort Mill, SC, explained that there had been some confusion about the actual subsidy that was being requested, but that this number is the number they are requesting and this falls within the BAC recommended guidelines. Rev. Joe Ocker, Frost, MN, pointed out that there has been a drastic decrease in giving for Home Missions and that the congregations need to seek how to continue to support the work of Home Missions. Resolution Carried.
PRAYER REQUESTS World Missions: We pray for our missionaries and their protection Called in Brazil - Paul and Becky Abel, Jonathan and Tamba Abel; John and Hannah Lee; Jonni Sliver Brazil. Paraguay - Matthew and Ednay Abel; Uganda - Micah and Famke Berger; Nate and Rhoda Jore; Brent and Em- ily Raan; Michael Rokenbrodt;
Mexico - Todd and Barb Schierkolk On Loan - Steve and Glenda Kvale Wycliffe, USA; Andrew and Alexis 173 Olson Lutheran Bible Translators, Tanzania; Joshua and Ruth Wagner Lutheran Bible Translators, Sierra Leone Short-Term Assistants - Emily Olson, Celaya, Mexico working with Pas- tor Milton Flores; Casey McLaughlin; Jared Kjos
National Leaders - Iran Goes - President of AILLB Brazil; D. Luther Sastry - President of AFLC-I India; Milton Flores - President of CMLC Mexico Pray that the LORD would open the governments and cultures to receive missionaries to share the Gospel of Christ. Home Missions: Pastors and lay leaders - Paula and Kris Nyman, Judy and James Lind- gren, Kay and Rich Ramsbacher, Susan and Christian Andrews, Brady Arneson, Megan and Eric Johnson, Debbie and Dan Giles, Vicki and David Johnson, Kim and Greg Schram, Mary and Steve Berntson, Jane and Jeff Swanson, Margaret and Bob Lee, Lacey and Jeremy Crowell, Penny and Joel Walde, Monica and Andy Coyle, Natalie and Matthew Ballmann, Barb and Mark Gustafson, Stephen and Stephanie Quanbeck, Beth and Tom Olson. New Church Growth (as seen on pg. 123 of Conference booklet) That God would supply for the Matching Grants for new Church starts That Christians would shine the Light of Christ in these dark times dispelling the fear & proclaiming the peace of Christ and ask for wisdom while they share the Gospel. That God would raise up qualified trained missionaries to meet the cur- rent needs. Rev. Rich Carr, Tioga, ND, asked that we pray for the missionaries cur- rently in the United States. Mrs. Becky Abel, asked for prayer for Pastor Augusto Fieri from Swit- zerland who had planned to be at the conference, but was unable to at- tend because of COVID. Mr. Jon Nelson, Plymouth, MN, asked for prayer for two more STA’s: the Jared Kjos family and Casey McLaughlin. Rev. Earl Korhonen, World Missions Director, prayed for AFLC World Missions. Rev. Jim Johnson, Home Missions Director, prayed for AFLC Home 174 Missions.
ELECTION RESULTS 2021 NOMINATING COMMITTEE
Central Tri-State Ms. Molly Barsness, Kenyon, MN - 148 Rev. Matthew W. Nelson, Radcliffe, IA - 60
Eastern Rev. David Johnson, Boyertown, PA - 100 Mrs. Joan Culler, Hagerstown, MD - 109
Eastern North Dakota Mr. Jeremy Zeltinger, Valley City, ND - 147 Mr. Gene Finstrom, Buxton, ND - 61
Illinois Mr. James Thompson, Janesville, WI - elected by unanimous ballot
Lake Superior Rev. David Handsaker, Cloquet, MN – elected by unanimous ballot
Minneapolis Rev. Brett Boe, Shakopee, MN - 91 Mr. Jim Berge, Maple Grove, MN - 123
Nebraska Kansas Colorado Rev. Ken Hart, Fairbury, NE – elected by unanimous ballot
North Central Minnesota Mrs. Angie Berg, Bemidji, MN - 168 Rev. Joel Kangas, Beltrami, MN - 38
Northern Michigan Rev. Dave Ryerson, Ishpeming, MI – elected by unanimous ballot
Northwestern Minnesota Mr. Emory Flaten, Newfolden, MN – elected by unanimous ballot
Pacific Northwest Rev. Cal Willard, Everett, WA – elected by unanimous ballot
South Central Mrs. Judy Rehmer, Cole Camp, MO – elected by unanimous ballot
South Dakota Mr. Iver Heier, Prairie City, SD - 120 175 Rev. Kirk Thorson, Sioux Falls, SD - 88
West Central Minnesota Rev. Rick Larson, Ortonville, MN - 117 Rev. Brian Lunn, Upsala, MN - 94
Southwestern Mrs. Alicia Langness, Thousand Oaks, CA – elected by unanimous ballot
Western North Dakota – Eastern Montana Mrs. Karen Pederson, Tioga, ND - 121 Mr. Seth Larson, Beulah, ND - 87
REPORT OF THE NOMINATING COMMITTEE 2021 Committee #3 – Missions Rev. John Amundson, New Leipzig, ND Mr. Bill Fish, Everett, WA Mrs. Angie Lombardo, Yorkville, IL Rev. Todd Klemme, Bagley, MN Mrs. Beverly Enderlein, Plymouth, MN MSC to close nominations and cast a unanimous ballot.
Resolutions for Committee #4 - Publications, Parish Ed., and Youth Committee Members: Brett Boe, Shakopee, MN (Chairman); Amy Dal- ager, Newfolden, MN; Albert Engevik, Ortonville, MN; Rebecca Moan, Corcoran, MN (Secretary) Publications and Parish Education
We thank the Lord for the following: Office staff: Marian Christopherson, Diane Brubakken, Cynthia Lohse, and Scott Olson Board members: Solveig Hjermstad, Dennis Norby, Ryan Patenaude, Maren Sletten, and Suzanne Tietjen All who are working on curriculum and other projects Another upcoming addition to the AFLC Heritage Series: One Thing I Seek: Selected Writings of Francis W. Monseth Individuals and congregations who support the ministry of Parish Educa- tion through prayers and gifts
Resolutions: 1. WHEREAS Ambassador Publications develops Christ-centered Bible curriculum including digital resources, e-books, downloadable material, 176 and webinars that reflect our Free Lutheran heritage, BE IT RESOLVED that we encourage congregations in the use of these resources. MS to adopt.
Mrs. Michele Smith, Brookings, SD, spoke in favor of the resolution. She recommended that our congregations make use of the Acts curricu- lum for their youth and even their adults. Rev. Dennis Norby, Valley City, ND, spoke in favor of the resolution. He promoted the Parish Ed elective in the afternoon. Rev. Alex Amiot, Thief River Falls, MN, spoke in favor of the resolution. He suggested that congregations make use of the new confirmation cur- riculum, which is very user-friendly. Resolution carried. 2. WHEREAS Publications and Parish Education have requested a sub- sidy of $172,000, BE IT RESOLVED that we approve this subsidy request. MS to adopt. Mr. Steve Jankord, Fort Mill, SC, pointed out that this subsidy number does not fall within the recommended BAC guidelines, based on the previous year’s receipts. He spoke against the resolution. Rev. Jason Holt, St. Michael, MN, spoke in favor of the resolution. He said that there is tension between the work that the conference directs the department to do and the inability to do that work with a low subsidy number. Mr. Steve Jankord, Fort Mill, SC, emphasized that the departments have to be realistic about what they can plan for, in fairness to all ministries. Rev. David Johnson, Boyertown, PA, spoke in favor of the resolution. He said that the congregations are responsible to financially support the work, as it is approved by the Conference. Rev. Richard Gunderson, Eugene, OR, asked for Steve Jankord to give the hard number of what the subsidy request would be in order to fall inside the BAC Guidelines.
Rev. Jon Benson, stated that the subsidy to fall inside the BAC recom- mendation is $152,123. 177 Rev. Dennis Norby, Valley City, ND, said that if this proposed subsidy is not approved, they will have to make hard staffing decisions, which will limit their ability to produce the work that we ask them to. Rev. Rich Carr, Tioga, ND, spoke against the resolution. We love the work of Parish Ed., but if we can’t afford it, we have to be honest about it. Rev. Dan Antal, Grand Forks, ND, spoke in favor of the resolution. He noted that the 15% increase is minimal, considering the small size of the Parish Ed budget. He also said that this subsidy request is similar to receipts from earlier years. What place is there to consider that longer history? Mrs. Leanna Lunn, Upsala, MN, asked for clarification: is there any way to know what the number would be in order to retain staff. Rev. Ryan Patenaude, Kindred, ND, clarified that the Parish Ed numbers are as bare bones as they can be. Rev. Jon Benson, made a motion to amend the resolution to having a sub- sidy request of $152,123. Seconded. Prayer time was led by Rev. Randy Nelson, Brooklyn Park, MN.
WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 12, 4PM – SESSION 4 Mr. Andrew Hanson led the conference in singing three songs. Rev. Brian Lunn led the conference in devotions on Psalm 4. REPORT OF THE CREDENTIALS COMMITTEE Lay 197 Visiting Lay 3 Pastor 113 Visiting Pastor 0 Total 313 MSC to accept the Credentials Report Discussion continued on the amended resolution of Committee #4’s Resolution #2. Rev. Jon Benson spoke against his own amendment. He said he did some research during the break and that the history of giving demonstrates that 2019 was an anomole, and that we can expect more giving moving forward, based on the history of giving. Mr. Steve Jankord, Fort Mill, SC, highlighted the credentials of the BAC. 178 He also emphasized the value of getting out ahead of the projected down- turn, especially in light of indications that 2020 will be a down year also. Rev. David Johnson, Boyertown, PA, spoke against the amendment. He stressed the need to trust the Parish Ed. Committee with this $20,000 difference.
Rev. Tim Johnson, Pipestone, MN, spoke against the amendment. He said that having higher numbers helps challenge our congregations to continue to give more. Mrs. Linda Fugleberg, Moorhead, MN, spoke against the amendment. She said that her local WMF uses the numbers printed in the Lutheran Ambassador to determine where they should send money, and if they keep showing that the numbers are met, they don’t give to those depart- ments like they otherwise would. Rev. Jason Gudim, Minneapolis, MN, spoke against the amendment. Rev. Scott Stroud, Salinas, CA, spoke against the amendment. He stated that the AFLC is not a synod and we can’t dictate to the congregations what they should spend. He suggested that the AFLC make available suggested donation numbers per member. Amendment Defeated. Resolution Carried.
Prayer Requests: Financial needs of AFLC Publications and Parish Education On-going projects of AFLC Publications and Parish Education Wisdom for accomplishing the most important things, being good stew- ards of what God provides, and trusting God to bless and multiply their labors Rev. Brett Boe, Shakopee, MN, led the Conference in prayer for Parish Ed & Publications. Youth We thank the Lord for the following: Youth ministry staff: Eric Christenson, Jason Holt, Dan Hurner, Daniel Keinanen, Jordan Langness, Liz McCarlson, and Chris Rasmussen
Board members: Adam McCarlson, Nathan Olson, Eric Rasmussen, Sharon Rykhus, and Michele Smith 179 FLY Committee and Advisors: Aaron Arneson, Gideon Johnson, Cassie Moan, Julia Pillman, Bryce Timmerman, Emily Goff, Daniel Keinanen, Chris Rasmussen, and Sharon Rykhus Students who attended FLY Beyond in person and digitally
Jason Holt’s completion of the Doctor of Ministry program Rev. Jason Holt, St. Michael, MN, clarified that Eric Christenson was employed by the youth department when the year started, but that is no longer the case.
Resolutions: 1. WHEREAS AFLC Youth Ministries exists to win, build, equip, and multiply disciples, BE IT RESOLVED that we encourage prayerful support of and participa- tion at AFLC youth ministry events. BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that congregations are encouraged to make use of the recommended tools available from AFLC Youth Minis- tries to engage teens and youth leaders. MS to adopt. Resolution Carried. 2. WHEREAS AFLC Youth Ministries has requested a subsidy of $152,500, BE IT RESOLVED that we approve this subsidy request. MS to adopt. Rev. Jason Holt, St. MIchael, MN, shared some context to this number. This requested number reflects a 2% increase based on the 3-year aver- age of receipts. However, giving is down significantly this year, and so he made a motion for an amendment that we approve a subsidy number of $137,160. Seconded. Mr. Steve Jankord, Fort Mill, SC, spoke in favor of the amendment. He apologized if the BAC has come across as wanting to dictate to the Con- ference what they should do. That is not their intent. Mrs. Michele Smith, Brookings, SD, spoke against the amendment. She said that a FLY Convention year is a more expensive year, and the FLY Convention is being held in 2021.
180 Dr. Wade Mobley, Plymouth, MN, spoke in favor of the amendment. He also clarified that the decision to approve a subsidy significantly above the previous year’s receipts goes against what the Conference has directed the corporations to do. We need to learn how to be consistent in how we report, what we approve, and how we practice stewardship.
Dr. Kevin Olson, New Hope, MN, spoke against the amendment. Mrs. Leanna Lunn, Upsala, MN, spoke in favor of the amendment. She stated that faith is important in this discussion, and also that we need to communicate the need better to our congregations and people. She men- tioned the value of the work that Parish Ed and Youth have on the future of the AFLC. Rev. John Kiehl, Metropolis, IL, spoke in favor of the amendment. He asked whether all our people and congregations were tithing. He said that this wouldn’t be a problem if everyone tithed. Rev. Tom Schierkolk, Eben Junction, MI, spoke against the amendment. The BAC has encouraged us to be faithful stewards. However, it is im- portant for our congregations to be made aware of what the departments believe they need in order to do their job well, and that communicates to our people what the need is, and challenges them to meet that need. Amendment Defeated. Resolution Carried.
Prayer Requests: Encouragement for youth leaders and congregational members involved in the lives of youth Financial needs of AFLC Youth Ministries FLY Convention: committee, speakers, staff, and students Mrs. Michele Smith asked the conference to pray for the families of our youth. She mentioned the depression that many youth struggle with, and how important it is for our families to ministrer in the home. Rev. Shane McLaughlin, Minot, ND, expressed thankfulness for the sac- rificial spirit of our Youth leaders. Rev. Alan Arneson, Fosston, MN, expressed praise for FLY Beyond and the wonderful week they had in early July 2020 at the ARC.
Rev. Brett Boe, Shakopee, MN, prayed for our Youth Department.
181 REPORT OF THE NOMINATING COMMITTEE Board of Publications and Parish Education (Lay, 5 year) Mrs. Leanna Lunn, Upsala, MN Mrs. Robyn Pelehos, Cannon Falls, MN
MSC to close nominations. Balloting followed.
Youth Board (Pastor, 5 year) Rev. Dr. Nathan Olson, Savage, MN Rev. David Ryerson, Ishpeming, MI MSC to close nominations. Balloting followed.
2021 Committee #4 – Parish Ed/Youth Rev. John Brennan, Oklahoma City, OK Mrs. Michelle Brennan, Oklahoma City, OK Mrs. Rebecca Moan, Corcoran, MN Mrs. Bonnie Handsaker, Radcliffe, IA Mrs. Faith Nelson, Prinsburg, MN MSC to close nominations and cast a unanimous ballot.
ADDITIONAL RESOLUTIONS FOR COMMITTEE #1 – Adminis- tration Committee Members: Roger VanSomeren, Amery, WI (Chairman); Jean Sheldon, Williston, ND; Sam Willard, Plymouth, MN; Ron Brubakken, Argyle, WI; Steve Fischer, Argyle, WI 5. WHEREAS the Coordinating Committee has requested a budget sub- sidy of $475,000 for the 2021 General Fund, AND WHEREAS Committee 1 has considered the BAC guidelines that recommend only a 2% increase over 2019 receipts and the 2021 budget subsidy request is a 14% increase over 2019 receipts, AND WHEREAS the 2021 request is only a .5% increase over the 2020 budget subsidy request approved last year, and is consistent with the historic budget of the General Fund, BE IT RESOLVED that the conference approve the requested budget subsidy. MS to adopt Mr. Steve Jankord, Fort Mill, SC, explained that the trend that the BAC is seeing is that 2019 is indicative of a larger downward trend in receipts. He spoke against the resolution.
182 Rev. Tom Schierkolk, Eben Junction, MI, explained that the jump in the Coordinating Committee budget was due to the hiring of a full time as- sistant to the president. This number is simply reflective of the need that the Coordinating Committee has. Rev. Jim Johnson, Fergus Falls, MN, spoke against the resolution. He emphasized that the conference has given contradictory statements. He also mentioned that the other departments abided by the BAC’s recom- mendations, and it isn’t very fair to them to simply refuse to address this. Rev. Shane McLaughlin, Minot, ND, asked where the contradiction is. He didn’t see it in the report. Mr. Steve Jankord, Fort Mill, SC, clarified that the subsidy requests come from the ministries and not the BAC. Resolution Carried.
REPORT OF THE NOMINATING COMMITTEE Colloquy Committee (5 Pastors, 1 year) Rev. Elden Nelson, Prinsburg, MN Rev. Jon Wellumson, Williston, ND Rev. Luke Berntson, Northome, MN Rev. Tom W. Olson, Enderlin, ND Rev. Kevin Olson, Crystal, MN MSC to close nominations and cast a unanimous ballot
Budget Analysis Committee (Lay, 3 year, 2 positions) Mr. Doug Hertlein, Canal Winchester, OH, made a motion to have one election, taking the top two vote-getters to fill the two vacant positions. Seconded. Carried. Nominees: Mr. Kirk Rautio, Osceola, WI Mr. Darin Dykstra, Sioux Falls, SD MSC to close nominations and cast a unanimous ballot. Mr. Dave Fugleberg, Lakeville, MN, presented the report of the Schools Corporation Annual Meeting. MSC to receive.
Rev. Rich Carr, Tioga, ND, presented the report of the ARC Corporation Annual Meeting.
183 MSC to receive. Rev. Mark Richardson, Faith, SD, presented the report of the Missions Corporation Annual Meeting. MSC to receive.
GENERAL RESOLUTIONS We give thanks to the Association Retreat Center, their staff, and their volunteers for their hospitality and excellent service hosting the Annual Conference this year. Thank you.
ELECTION RESULTS Board of Publications and Parish Ed (Lay, 5 year) Mrs. Leeanna Lunn – 105 Mrs. Robyn Pelehos – 45 Youth Board (Pastor, 5 year) Rev. Nathan Olson – 114 Rev. David Ryerson – 39 MSC to adjourn.
184 FUTURE AFLC ANNUAL CONFERENCE DATES
2021 Host: AFLC Schools, Plymouth, MN Theme: Isaiah 40:3 - “Prepare the Way Of the Lord” Date: June
2022 Host: (tba) Theme: Hebrews 11:6 - “God Rewards the Faithful” Date: (tba)
185 REPORT OF THE MISSIONS CORPORATION ANNUAL MEETING AND REPORT OF THE BAY BROADCASTING CORPORATION MEETING
Report of the Missions Corporation Annual Meeting Wednesday, August 12 Association Retreat Center | Osceola, WI I. Chairman, Rev. Jerry Peterson, called the meeting to order at 1:28 pm and led in devotions, from the parable of the sower. II. Roll Call: There were 51 Corporation members present (quorum was reached), with 27 proxy ballots, for a total voting membership of 78. III. Reading of Minutes: M/S/C to wave the reading of the minutes from June 14, 2018, accepted as presented in email and print. IV. BUSINESS: A. ELECTIONS: Corporation members (20 individuals nominated by conference) (1 to complete the term of Rev. John Abel term expires in 2023)
M/S/C to accept the twenty to be voted in to the corporation. (Joe Ocker) M/S/C to elect Brandon Marschner and Vince Larson to elect them in addition to the twenty. 1. Rev. Micah Hjermstad 2. Mr. Ron Jorgenson 3. Rev. Joe Ocker 4. Dr. Lyle Mattson 5. Rev. David Nelson 6. Dr. Peter Dyrud 7. Mr. Gene Finstrom 8. Rev. Kris Nyman 9. Rev. Todd Klemme 10. Mrs. Wanita Sletten 11. Mrs. Vonne Coyle 12. Rev. Ken Moland 13. Pastor Mark Olson 186 14. Mr. Daryl Askvig 15. Rev. Ray Ballmann 16. Mrs. Phyllis Nikunen 17. Rev. Nick Schultz 18. Rev. Luke Emerson 19. Rev. Jerome Nikunen 20. Rev. John Amundson 21. Rev. Vince Larson 22. Brandon Marschner
The other elections were held:
2. World Missions – Layman (5-year term) Mr. Stephen Deysher, Fleetwood, PA 3. Home Missions – Pastor (5-year term) Rev. Andy Coyle, Summerset, SD 4. Bay Broadcasting Board – Layman (3-year term) Benjamin Dahl, Coeur d’Alene, ID 5. FLAPS Board – Layman (5-year term) Mr. Lavon Bohling, Inman, KS
Article 5, Sec. 2 M/S/C that the Mission Corporation elect officers (President, Vice-President, Secretary) for one-year terms, at the annual meeting of the Corporation, who are not members of the World or Home Missions Committees. (To be implemented at Mission Corporation An- nual Meeting, 2020). President Rev. Gerald Peterson, Durant, OK
Vice-President Rev. Michael Brandt
187 Secretary Linda Fugleberg
OLD BUSINESS
Article 4, Sec. 2: The original Article: Article VI, Sec. 2, Members of the Board. The Board of Directors shall consist of all members of the Home Missions Committee and all members of the World Missions Committee. PROPOSAL - M/S/discussed, for the Mission Corporation to create by vote, a separate Board of Directors consisting of 7 members of the Mis- sion Corporation who are not also serving on the World or Home Mis- sions Committees. M/S/C to discuss the question. M/S/C was carried to end the discussion. The proposal was voted down.
Article 3, Sec. 1, Qualification. This was withdrawn from the committee.
Article 3, Sec. 2, Manner of Election. The original Article: Each member shall be elected for a five-year term except current members, who shall remain members until their terms ex- pire and their successors are duly elected and qualified. Terms shall end on the date of the annual meeting in the year in which the terms expire. Twenty (20) members shall be elected each year, plus those to be elected to fill unexpired terms. The nominating committee of the Annual Con- ference of the AFLC shall nominate two candidates for each vacancy in the corporation. The Annual Conference shall then submit one name for each vacancy to the corporation for election.
PROPOSED and Postponed til 2020: Each member shall be elected for a five year term. No person shall be a member of the Corporation for more 188 than two successive full terms. Board members are allowed to complete their board member tenure as Corporation members. Terms shall end on the date of the annual meeting in the year in which the terms expire. Ten (10) members shall be elected each year, plus those to be elected to fill unexpired terms. The nominating committee of the Annual Conference of the AFLC shall nominate two candidates for each vacancy in the cor- poration. The Annual Conference shall then submit one name fore each vacancy to the corporation for election.
M/S/C to amend under the proposed postponed til 2020 section. To change it to from committee from boards: Committee members are allowed to complete their Committee member tenure as Corporation members. Terms shall end at the conclusion of the annual meeting in the year in which the terms expire. Twenty (20) mem- bers shall be elected each year, plus those to be elected to fill unexpired terms. M/S/C on to vote on the proposal of Article 3, Section 2. Motion was carried. M/S/C to table and rework the resolution of the Alaska Mission and bring it to the corporation next year. M/S/C to continue the work on the first motion Article 4, Sec. 2 by the committee and bring it back to the corporation next year at conference. David Handsaker was elected to be on the committee. M/S/C to adjourn the meeting.
Respectfully submitted by Mark Richardson
189 MINUTES OF THE 2020 SCHOOLS CORPORATION ANNUAL MEETING Association Free Lutheran Bible School and Theological Seminary Minneapolis, Minnesota
The 2020 Annual Meeting of the Schools Corporation was held on Tuesday, August 11, 2020 at the Association Retreat Center, Osceola, WI. Twenty-seven Corporation members were present.
Rev. Alan Arneson Rev. Jason Gudim Dr. Daniel Mundfrom Rev. Daniel Antal Mrs. Bonnie Handsaker Mr. Dean Nelson Mr. Don Balmer Rev. Martin Horn Mrs. Karen Pederson Mr. Arne Berge Miss Wanda Jacobson Rev. Lloyd Quanbeck Mrs. Gwen Berge Mr. Steve Jankord Rev. Matthew Quanbeck Rev. Brett Boe Rev. Gideon Johnson Rev. Kirk Thorson Rev. Todd Erickson Rev. James Johnson Rev. Peter Ward Mr. David Fugleberg Mr. Phil Johnson Rev. Jon Wellumson Mr. Tom Fugleberg Mrs. Robin Johnson Rev. George Winston
Several Faculty members, staff, and visitors were also present. Rev. Kirk Thorson, President of the Corporation called the meeting to or- der at 1:32 PM. He shared devotions from 2 Corinthians 4:16-18 about the eternal things that are unseen. Verification of quorum noted by the Secretary.
REPORTS: Secretary’s Report: MMSC (Jankord/Nelson) to dispense with the reading of the minutes of the 2019 meeting and approve the written minutes as distributed. Several brief reports were given.
AFLC Schools Board of Trustees Chairman – Rev. Todd Erickson The BoT has changed their meeting schedule to quarterly, with other calls as necessary. One of these meetings is dedicated to interviewing seminary students. Rev Erickson called our attention to the ‘accountabil- ity’ section of his written report.
Free Lutheran Bible College Dean – Rev. Adam Osier Rev. Osier remarked that this had been a very unusual first year due to Covid, but that he is encouraged by how the BoT, Faculty and staff work 190 as a team. Enrollment is increasing from last year. Rev. Osier thanked the corporation for their prayers for the schools, and asked that we spe- cifically pray that we don’t make decisions based on fear, but rather live confidently.
Free Lutheran Theological Seminary Dean – Dr. James Molstre Dr. Molstre read from Psalm 25 and remarked how meaningful this has been in the past months. He remarked that there are no shortcuts to intensive seminary training in preparation for ministry. He discussed the number of men in each year of seminary and the importance of the in- ternship experience. The current plan is to begin the school year more or less normally, but with adjustments as needed due to the ongoing Covid situation.
AFLC Schools President – Rev. Wade Mobley Rev. Mobley read from Heb 10:35-39, and discussed the importance of not shrinking back, but continuing in the essential ministry of deliver- ing the Word of God. He noted that the year may not have been the way we had scripted it, but that the schools ad the Corporation are in a good position. Rev. Mobley has been teaching more and recently completed work on his doctorate. He discussed the decision to eliminate the position of VP of Academic Affairs as a standalone position as part of the ongoing building of the schools. He also remarked that we are in excellent finan- cial condition, and that the new Student Life Center is rapidly coming together. Finally, he talked about the importance of equipping pastors to be lifelong learners.
VP of Operations – Mr. Larry Myhrer Mr. Myhrer read from Jeremiah 29:11, and provided a financial snapshot. Although there was great concern about finances at the beginning of the Covid outbreak related to bills, refunds, etc. God has a plan for a hope and a future. Some mineral rights were sold and some estates came in that together brought about $1.8M. This will allow for endowments for faculty positions as well as savings that will help with cash flow needed for the building project. Mr. Myhrer compared giving during the past several months with the comparable period for the past several years, and giving is on pace with prior years despite Covid. We are in good finan- cial shape – God is good!
Building Committee Chair – Mr. Phil Johnson Mr. Johnson remarked that the start of building was delayed somewhat by the permit processes, but that it is well underway. Much of the build- ing is enclosed, and should be completely enclosed in a month. Target for completion is December. The pandemic has caused no delays until re- cently, with a potential week’s delay for the gym floor slab. The contrac- tor is beginning site cleanup to make the construction area footprint as small as possible before the start of classes. He encouraged Corporation members to stop by the school and see the progress on the building.
191 The reports were followed by a time for Questions and Answers. There were some questions and discussion on enrollment, and about Seminary training and the use of lay pastors. Questions were asked and addressed regarding preparations and contin- gency planning for potential Covid cases on campus. Rev. Mobley men- tioned plans that are in place, and that a relationship has been established with a nearby clinic for rapid testing. Questions were asked and addressed about the potential for protests af- fecting the schools. Rev. Mobley mentioned new relationships that have been formed with local police and fire departments. Some common sense adjustments will be made to discourage students from certain areas, but overall Plymouth is very safe. More discussion about pandemic related orders and how the schools will respond. Rev. Todd Erickson commented that the process and commu- nication between faculty and the BoT went well during the initial Covid shutdown. The schools provided refunds immediately after students were dismissed at that time, and this was much appreciated by students and their families. MMSC (Winston/G Johnson) to receive the reports as provided.
OLD BUSINESS: 1. Follow up on progress with the recommendations related to the oversight of Development Department Rev. Todd Erickson explained the history of the recommendations and actions taken regarding the AFLC Development Department. The Co- ordinating Committee, Missions Corporation, and Schools Corporation each provide a third of the funding for the department, but the position reports only to the Coordinating Committee. In addition, a portion of all giving has been going to an endowment to fund the department. Mr. Jankord stated that this is in effect paying twice for the same thing. An advisory committee was to have been established as part of the origi- nal plan ten years ago, but that was not done. Both the Schools and the Missions corporations have asked for information and to have a voice in oversight. A letter was sent by the BoT to each member of the Coor- dinating Committee expressing this concern and stating that the monthy payment to support this position would be withheld unless this arrange- ment is changed so that the corporation has a voice in the governance of this department. Some of the information requested has recently been provided by the Director of Development, but the oversight Committee has not been established. The Missions Corporation has reviewed and has informed the Coordinating Committee of a similar position from them.
192 The Corporation was not asked for any further motions, only for their support. The discussion in this meeting was only intended as a review to inform corporation members. The BoT will proceed with handling this ongoing situation as discussed at this and the previous annual meeting.
2. Discussion on live-streaming meetings and distance voting There was discussion at some previous meetings regarding the possi- bility of live streaming Corporation meetings and allowing for remote attendance and voting by members. No decision was taken at that time. Rev. Kirk Thorson had volunteered to do some research, and found that there were many unanswered questions about the legality of such vot- ing in some jurisdictions. There was some discussion of the matter. Rev. Martin Horn noted that the Corporation has never lacked a quorum, and that an option for remote attendance would encourage people to avoid coming to the meetings. There was general agreement in the room that there is no significant driver at this time to pursue this further. Motion made by Rev. Gudim, second by Rev. Winston to table discussion on remote meetings until a time when it looks like it is a necessity due to extenuating circumstances There was some discussion about changing the wording of the motion, but the idea was withdrawn. The question was called. Motion carried.
NEW BUSINESS: 1.AFLC Foundation – Rev. Jim Johnson reminded the corpora- tion of the purpose and structure of the Foundation Board. Each Cor- poration has two seats on the Foundation Board, but Rev. Johnson is currently the only member from the Schools Corp because Rev. Scavo is no longer a member of the Corporation. Rev. Thorson called for nomi- nations from the floor for a lay representative to complete this one year unexpired term. Mr. Dean Nelson was nominated. MMSC (G Johnson/J Gudim) to cast a unanimous ballot to elect Mr. Nelson. 2.Articles of Indemnification – Articles of Indemnification were provided to all members previously via email, and again at the meet- ing, as prepared by Mr. John Talley, as called for in last year’s corpora- tion meeting. Rev. Thorson gave a brief description of the intent of the articles, which are intended to be incorporated into the Bylaws. There was some discussion of the intent and meaning of some of the document. Motion made and seconded (P Johnson/Boe) to adopt the articles as written. After brief discussion, the question was called, and the motion carried on voice vote. ELECTIONS: CORPORATION: Names of the ten nominees to the corporation received from the Confer- ence were read. 193 Rev. Alan Arneson, Fosston MN Mr. Gary Erickson, Dalton, MN Mr. Cory Buck, Sioux Falls, SD Rev. Brett Boe, Shakopee MN Mr. Loiell Dyrud, Thief River Falls MN Rev. James R. Johnson, Fergus Falls, MN Mr. Brent Peterson, Valley City, ND Pastor Michael McCarlson, Webster, SD Rev. Kirk Flaa, Sioux Falls, SD Mr. David Haugen, Pelican Rapids, MN
MMSC (Rev. Jason Gudim/Mrs. Bonnie Handsaker) to elect the ten nominees by unanimous ballot BOARD OF TRUSTEES: Five Year Clergy Term: Nominees from the Conference were Rev. Jason Gudim, Rev. Kirk Flaa, and Rev. Jon Wellumson. Ballots were distributed, and Rev. Jason Gu- dim was elected. CORPORATION EXECUTIVE BOARD: President: Nominations were opened for President of the corporation. Rev. Kirk Thorson was nominated. MMSC (Arneson/Boe) to close nominations and cast unanimous ballot. Rev. Thorson was elected. Vice President: Nominations were opened for Vice President of the corporation. Rev. Brett Boe was nominated. MMSC (G. Johnson/Horn) to close nomina- tions and cast a unanimous ballot. Rev. Brett Boe was elected. Secretary: Nominations were opened for Secretary of the corporation. Mr. David Fugleberg was nominated. MMSC (Gudim/Boe) to close nominations and cast unanimous ballot. David Fugleberg was re-elected. Treasurer: Nominations were opened for Treasurer of the corporation. Mr. Cory Buck was nominated. MMSC (Jacobson/G. Berge) to close nominations and cast unanimous ballot. Cory Buck was elected.
194 No further new business was noted. MMSC Winston/Wellumson) to adjourn. President Thorson closed the meting in prayer, and the meeting was adjourned at 3:39 PM. Respectfully submitted,
David Fugleberg Secretary, Schools Corporation
195 REPORT OF THE ARC 2020 ANNUAL CORPORATION MEETING Corporation Attendees (we achieve a quorum!): • Rev. Jerry Nelson • Rev. Ron Brubakken • Rev. Rich Carr • Dr. Steve Johnson • Ivar Berge • Rev. Aaron Olson • Flint McLaughlin • Calvin Willard • Hannah Langness • Tami Demo • Chad Rieschl • Albert Engevik • Rev. Elden Nelson • Ernie Hilbert • Rev. Jesse Kneeland • Rev. Shane McLoughlin • Doug Hertlein Dr. Steve Johnson open the meeting with prayer (1:22 p.m.) Director Kirk Rautio went over the financials – PNL Net income is down 133% compared to this time last year • Retreats have continued to cancel meaning current funds will only allow operation through the end of December • Assuming no more retreats from this day forward, Kirk said poten- tial options to keep the Camp open include: • Layoffs – Hourly to ¼ time, Dave, Kirk and Val to ½ time • If needed to make it to March, 100% layoffs would be necessary for the entire staff along with shutting down/reducing as much of items requiring utilities (gas and electricity) • **Approximately $30-35,000 need per month to operate • Ideas to make the need known: o Create bulletin inserts with ARC needs and circulate to “district” corporation members and have them send to and follow-up district church- es – Rev. Calvin Willard may have ideas on how best to present a one page message (Picture, needs, links/addresses on how to give/support) – Rev. Calvin Willard has issued a challenge to have something ready to go by the end of August o Kirk has secured another $20,000 as a matching base for the 2020 Kingdom Gift year-end giving campaign. (Will start during Nov. 2020) o Encourage corporation members in each district to speak at vari- ous churches throughout their region and present their ARC stories along with the current needs of the ARC o Instead of sending Kirk to churches, would a “Zoom” (virtual) 196 meeting happen? Idea was the “50 Corp Sunday” – this would be a virtual meeting/ARC update with all of the Corporation members along with as many churches, congregations, people as possible – make sure we “Keep It Simple!” o Everyone has agreed we need to do everything in our power to as- sure Kirk and his family see no salary reduction
Voting on Nominations: ARC Corporation: • Mr. Denis Parsley • Mr. Roger Benson (current Board member) • Mrs. Nancy Langness • Mr. Roger Quanbeck • Mr. Stanley Christenson • Mr. Michael Coyle • Mr. Ernie Hilbert • Mr. Brian Rice • Mrs. Mary Ann Christenson • Mrs. Robyn Pelehos MSC (Rev. Carr, Rev. McLoughlin) ARC Board: • Chad Rieschl MSC (H.Langness, Rev. Kneeland) Brief update on neighbor (Audrey) who once again is encroaching on ARC property by attempting to build a building on ARC property. With guidance from Doug Hertlein, one more attempt to will attempted to compel Audrey to remove her new shed (started being built during Family Camp 2020 (week of August 3, 2020) and fence currently on ARC property. If a person to person agreement can not be attained, we will pursue litigation. (Poten- tial cost could be $25,000) Motion: Reply to the Navigators and ask for payment of $12,000 which is 50% of the minimum required payment as outlined in the contract. MSC (Rev.Kneeland, I.Berge) Meeting adjourned at 2:58 p.m. – Rev. Elden Nelson closed in prayer. - notes as received for the ARC Corporation by Mr. Kirk Rautio
197 NATIONAL WMF OFFICERS
President Term ends 2021 Lavonne West Columbia, Falls MT [email protected] 406-892-2667 (H) 406 249-1605 (C) 1st Vice President Term ends 2022 Anne Presteng Grafton ND [email protected] 701-352-0911 (H) 701-520-3138 (C) 2nd Vice President Term ends 2020 Ms. Liz McCarlson New Hope, MN [email protected] 605-881-1597 (C) Communication Secretary Term ends 2021 Deanna Larson Ortonville MN 56278 [email protected] 320-487-0144 (H) 402-613-7196 (C) Recording Secretary Term ends 2022 Karen Floan Plymouth MN [email protected] 612-227-1358 (C) Treasurer Term ends 2020 Margie Lee Beulah ND [email protected] 701-870-2259 (C)
National WMF Support Personnel Executive Secretary Dawn Johnson Wilson, WI [email protected] 715-772-4454 (H) 715-505-4454 (C)
198 199 200 201 2020 AFLC CONFERENCE REGISTRATIONS PASTOR REGISTRATIONS WITH CITY & CHURCH
ALABAMA Eidsmoe, John Pike Road Skrefsrud
ALASKA Crowell, Jeremy Naknek Hilltop Christian Fellowship
CALIFORNIA Friestad, Chad Camarillo Good Shepherd Lutheran Stroud, Scott Salinas St. Ansgar’s Lutheran
ILLINOIS Benson, Craig Morris Grace Lutheran Benson, Jon Newark Newark Lutheran Jensen, Steven Milford St. John Evangelical Lutheran Kiehl, John Metropolis Faith Lutheran Klemme, Micah Melvin St. Peter’s Lutheran
IOWA Handsaker, Paul Radcliffe Salem Lutheran Nelson, Matthew Radcliffe St. Paul’s & Salem Lutheran Nikunen, Jerome Clarion Holmes Evangelical Lutheran
MARYLAND Nyman, Kris Hagerstown Christ Community
MICHIGAN Schierkolk, Thomas Eben Junction Calvary Free Lutheran
MINNESOTA Amiot, Alex Thief River Falls Our Saviour’s Anderson, Karl McIntosh McIntosh Free Lutheran Parish Arneson, Alan Fosston Calvary Free Lutheran Boe, Brett Shakopee King of Glory Lutheran Christenson, Eric Plymouth Amery Free Lutheran Davidson, Brian Ashby Kvam Free Lutheran Dyrud, Nick Bloomington Emmaus Lutheran Erickson, Todd Roseau Rose & Spruce Free Lutheran Finstrom, Dale Fertile Resurrection Free Lutheran Flechsig, Michael Blackduck Faith Lutheran Franz, Peter Maple Grove Grace Free Lutheran Fugleberg, James Moorhead St. Paul’s Free Lutheran Gudim, Jason Golden Valley Faith Free Lutheran Gunderson, Ruth Brooklyn Park Vision of Glory Handsaker, David Cloquet St. Paul’s Lutheran Harris, Marlin Mora True Vine Hjermstad, Wayne Elk River Solid Rock Free Lutheran Holt, Jason Saint Michael Living Hope Hoops, Lee Saint Michael Grace Free Lutheran Horn, Martin Crystal Hope Free Lutheran Johnson, Gideon Kenyon Emmanuel & Hauge Lutheran Johnson, James Fergus Falls Calvary Free Lutheran Johnson, James Rogers Living Hope Johnson, Mark Dalton Dalton FL Parish Johnson, Timothy Pipestone Christ the King Free Lutheran Jore, David Mentor Maple Bay Free Lutheran 202 Jorgenson, Gary Ramsey Solid Rock Free Lutheran Klemme, Todd Bagley Grace Free Lutheran Korhonen, Earl Plymouth Grace Free Lutheran Korhonen, Lyndon Plymouth Grace Free Lutheran Larson, Richard Ortonville Abiding Faith Free Lutheran Lee, Robert Crystal Grace Free Lutheran Lunn, Brian Upsala Word of Life Lutheran Moan, Jerry Corcoran Solid Rock Free Lutheran Mobley, Wade Plymouth Solid Rock Free Lutheran Molstre, James Maple Grove Hope Lutheran Mundfrom, Steve Crystal Faith Free Lutheran Nash, Paul Fergus Falls Solid Rock Free Lutheran Nelson, Elden Prinsburg Good Shepherd Free Lutheran Niemela, David Greenbush United Free Lutheran Nelson, Randy Brooklyn Park Grace Free Lutheran Ocker, Joe Frost Dell Lutheran Olson, Kevin Crystal Emmaus Lutheran Olson, Thomas Farmington Minnesota Valley Free Lutheran Osier, Adam Maple Grove Grace Free Lutheran Palmer, Del Shakopee Faith Free Lutheran Pillman, Matthew Pipestone Christ the King Free Lutheran Pollestad, Tonnes Andover Solid Rock Free Lutheran Quanbeck, Lloyd Moorhead Maranatha Free Luthrean Rolf, Joel Starbuck Minnewaska Lutheran Richman, Don Bloomington Emmaus Lutheran Schmitke, Irvin Roseau Free Lutheran Church of Roseau Sliper, Richard Ellendale First Lutheran Staudinger, Ron Tamarack Tamarack Free Lutheran Ward, Peter Pelican Rapids St. Paul’s Free Lutheran Westlake, Eric Zumbrota Our Saviour’s Lutheran
MISSOURI Andrews, J. Christian Springfield Immanuel Lutheran Tuura, Thomas Stover Christ Lutheran
MONTANA Marschner, Brandon Culbertson Bethel Community & Faith Free
NEBRASKA Hart, Kenneth Fairbury Faith Lutheran Hoops, Kevin Byron Abiding Word Lutheran Langness, Jon Deshler Abiding Word Lutheran Quanbeck, Matthew Laurel United Lutheran
NORTH CAROLINA NORTH DAKOTA Antal, Dan Grand Forks Trinity Free Lutheran Berntson, Steve Jamestown New Hope Free Lutheran Carr, Richard Tioga Zion Lutheran Hjermstad, Micah West Fargo St. Paul’s Free Lutheran Kinneberg, Lynn McVille Bethany Free Lutheran McLoughlin, Shane Minot Bethel Free Lutheran Moan, Seth Williston Emmanuel Free Lutheran Norby, Dennis Valley City Grace & Zion Free Lutheran Olson, Terry Grafton Bethel Free Lutheran Olson, Thomas Enderlin Hope AFLC Church of Enderlin Patenaude, Ryan Kindred West Prairie Reagan, Thomas Wahpeton Bethany Free Lutheran Tormanen, Erin Stanley Our Savior’s Free Lutheran 203 Wellumson, Jon Williston Emmanuel & Beaver Creek Wentzel, Craig Edmore Living Word & Zoar
OHIO Hertlein, Doug Carroll Peace Free Lutheran Winston, George Newark St. John’s Lutheran
OKLAHOMA Peterson, Jerry Durant Faith Lutheran Church
OREGON Gunderson, Richard Eugene Spencer Creek Lutheran Steendahl, Matt Brookings Trinity Lutheran
PENNSYLVANIA Johnson, David A. Boyertown Living Faith Lutheran
SOUTH DAKOTA Brandt, Michael Sioux Falls, SD Abiding Savior Free Lutheran Coyle, Andy Summerset Shiloh Free Lutheran Hylden, Jarrod Beresford Skrefsrud Lutheran Lindgren, James Madison Good Shepherd & Center Mohagen, Henry Reva Slim Buttes Free Lutheran Olson, Aaron Arlington Calvary Free Lutheran Richardson, Mark Faith Bethel & Emmanuel Smith, Ron Brookings Grace Lutheran Thorson, Kirk Sioux Falls Living Word Free Lutheran
TENNESSEE Cherney, Frank Humboldt Ebenezer Free Lutheran
TEXAS Ballmann, Matthew San Antonio Trinity San Antonio
WASHINGTON Schultz, Nicholas Kirkland Our Redeemer Lutheran Willard, Cal Everett Calvary Lutheran
WISCONSIN Brubakken, Ron Osceola Cornerstone Lutheran Carlson, Tim Barronett, WI Timberland Ringebu Johnson, Leslie Wilson Christ the King Lutheran Nelson, Jerry La Crosse Christ is Lord Free Lutheran Unverzagt Sparta Christ is Lord Free Lutheran Wik, Ron Sparta
BRAZIL Abel, Paul AFLC Brazil
PARAGUAY Abel, Matthew AFLC Paraguay
UGANDA Raan, Brent AFLC Uganda
REGISTERED VISITING PASTORS Jeff Duncan Nevada, IA Lutherans for Life
204 LAY REGISTRATIONS WITH CITY & STATE ALABAMA ALASKA Crowell, Lacey Naknek Hilltop Christian Fellowship
CALIFORNIA Friestad, Christie Camarillo Good Shepherd Lutheran
ILLINOIS Benson, Deb Morris Grace Lutheran Benson, Jeanette Newark Newark Lutheran Jensen, Brandi Milford St. John Evangelical Lutheran Kiehl, Rhonda Metropolis Faith Lutheran Ogg, Bill Melvin St. Peter’s Lutheran
IOWA Handsaker, Bonnie Radcliffe Hilbert, Ernest Wheatland Christian Free Lutheran Hilbert, Kathryn Wheatland Christian Free Lutheran Nikunen, Phyllis Clarion Holmes Evangelical Lutheran VonMuenster, Betsy New Liberty Christian Free Lutheran Von Muenster, Dave New Liberty Christian Free Lutheran KANSAS Bohling, Fern Inman Abiding Word Lutheran Bohling, Lavon Inman Abiding Word Lutheran
KENTUCKY Mundfrom, Dan Richmond Lutheran Church of Hope Mundfrom, Elaine Richmond Lutheran Church of Hope
MINNESOTA Abel, Ruby Wayzata St. Paul’s Free Lutheran Akerman, Darlene Dalton Kvam Free Lutheran Akerman, Richard Dalton Kvam Free Lutheran Anderson, Bruce Madelia Hosanna Anderson, Lorene Madelia Hosanna Arneson, Lisa Fosston Calvary Free Lutheran Balmer, Don Thief River Falls Our Saviour’s Lutheran Balmer, Sonia Thief River Falls Our Saviour’s Lutheran Berge, Gwen Maple Grove Grace Free Lutheran Boe, Theresa Shakopee King of Glory Borg, Dave Maple Grove Grace Free Lutheran Borg, Sharon Maple Grove Grace Free Lutheran Brubakken, Diane New Hope Grace Free Lutheran Caouette, Tom Nisswa Good Shepherd Dalager, Amy Argyle Westaker Free Lutheran Dutton, Ken Maple Grove Dyrud, Peter Maple Grove Grace Free Lutheran Efteland, Brenda Eagan Emmaus Lutheran Efteland, David Saint Paul Emmaus Lutheran Erickson, Joel Oslo Christ the King Free Lutheran Erickson, Joyce Roseau Rose & Spruce Free Lutheran Erickson, Scott Plymouth Oiland Erickson, Tina Plymouth Oiland Farell, Mike Zumbrota Our Saviour’s Lutheran 205 Finstrom, Cris Fertile Resurrection Free Lutheran Floan, Karen Plymouth Grace Free Lutheran Fugleberg, David Lakeville Minnesota Valley Free Lutheran Fugleberg, Julie Roseau Rose Free Lutheran Fugleberg, Linda Moorhead St. Paul’s Free Lutheran Fugleberg, Tom Roseau Rose Free Lutheran Greven, Madison Brooklyn Park Grace Free Lutheran Hanson, Andrew Plymouth Grace Free Lutheran Hjermstad, Solveig Elk River Solid Rock Free Lutheran Hoops, Carol Saint Michael Grace Free Lutheran Jacobson, Wanda Brooklyn Park Solid Rock Free Lutheran Johnson, Aaron Plymouth Grace Free Lutheran Johnson, Brenda Upsala Word of Life Lutheran Johnson, Erin Kenyon Emmanuel & Hauge Lutheran Johnson, Josh Crystal Solid Rock Free Lutheran Johnson, Katie Plymouth Grace Free Lutheran Johnson, Linda Otsego Living Hope Johnson, Marsha Fergus Falls Calvary Free Lutheran Johnson, Phil Esko St. Paul’s Lutheran Johnson, Robin Esko St. Paul’s Lutheran Johnson, Steven Upsala Word of Life Lutheran Johnson, Suzanne Burtrum Word of Life Free Lutheran Jore, Elizabeth Roseville Grace Free Lutheran Jore, Judith Mentor Maple Bay Free Jorgenson, Jeanne Ramsey Solid Rock Free Lutheran Keranen, John Menahga Bethany Free Lutheran Keranen, Sharon Menahga Bethany Free Lutheran Klemme, Miriam Bagley Grace Free Lutheran Korhonen, Joan Plymouth Grace Free Lutheran Korhonen, Linda Plymouth Grace Free Lutheran Kvale, Steven Balaton Christ the King Lutheran Larson, Deanna Ortonville Abiding Faith Free Lutheran Lundebrek, Ken Spicer Green Lake Lutheran Lundebrek, Lavonne Spicer Green Lake Lutheran Lunn, Leeanna Upsala Word of Life Lutheran Markwell, Carol Tofte Calvary Free Lutheran Markwell, John Tofte Calvary Free Lutheran McCarlson, Elizabeth New Hope Faith Free Lutheran Moan, Rebecca Corcoran Solid Rock Free Lutheran Mobley, Michele Plymouth Solid Rock Free Lutheran Mork, Glenn Buffalo Good Shepherd Free Lutheran Mork, Sherry Buffalo Good Shepherd Free Lutheran Morrison, Lance Bloomington Mundfrom, Joanne Crystal Faith Free Lutheran Nash, Laurie Fergus Falls Solid Rock Free Lutheran Nelson, Brenda Brooklyn Park Grace Free Lutheran Nelson, Dean Vergas Calvary Free Lutheran Nelson, Jonathan Golden Valley Hope Lutheran Nelson, Linda Vergas Calvary Free Lutheran Niemela, Jennifer Greenbush United Free Lutheran Olson, Rebekah Farmington Minnesota Valley Free Lutheran Olson, Sharon Farmington Minnesota Valley Free Lutheran Onstad, Michael Plymouth Palmer, Karen Shakopee Faith Free Lutheran Pederson, Chanel Plymouth Abiding Savior Free Lutheran Pillman, Julia Pipestone Christ the King Lutheran Pollestad, Mary Andover Solid Rock Free Lutheran Quanbeck, Andrew Moorhead Maranatha Free Lutheran Quanbeck, Jean Moorhead Maranatha Free Lutheran Quanbeck, Stephen New Hope Solid Rock Free Lutheran 206 Richardson, Tyler Ellendale First Lutheran Rumohr, Jordan Monticello Living Hope Church Scheel, Rodney Fergus Falls Calvary Free Lutheran Schmitke, Alyce Roseau Free Lutheran Church of Roseau Sletten, Kenneth Duluth St. John’s Free Lutheran Sletten, Wanita Duluth St. John’s Free Lutheran Sliper, Rea Ellendale First Lutheran Staudinger, Nancy Tamarack Tamarack Free Lutheran Strong, Lynette Blackduck Faith Lutheran Strong, Stanley Blackduck Faith Lutheran Thramer, Haley Plymouth Living Word Tungseth, Loren Fergus Falls Calvary Free Lutheran Ward, Mary Pelican Rapids St. Paul’s Free Lutheran Westrom, Lyle Crookston Resurrection Free Lutheran Sam Willard Plymouth
MISSOURI Majors, Mark Macomb Immanuel Lutheran Majors, Mary Macomb Immanuel Lutheran
MONTANA Mundfrom, Ashley Culbertson Bethel Community & Faith Timmerman, Bryce Kalispel Stillwater Free Lutheran
NEBRASKA Christensen, Mary Ann Laurel United Lutheran Hart, Seth Fairbury Faith Lutheran Kettelhut, Marilyn Deshler Abiding Word Lutheran Kettelhut, Willis Deshler Abiding Word Lutheran
NORTH DAKOTA Berge, Arne Binford Bethany Lutheran Berge, Ivar Fargo St. Paul’s Free Lutheran Christopherson, Marian McVille New Luther Valley Lutheran Finstrom, Gene Buxton Ny Stavanger Finstrom, Rose Buxton Ny Stavanger Gustafson, Barbara Dickinson Calvary Free Lutheran Gustafson, Mark Dickinson Calvary Free Lutheran Jorgenson, Angie Lidgerwood Bethany Free Lutheran Jorgenson, Ron Lidgerwood Bethany Free Lutheran Larson, Rebecca Beulah Prince of Peace Lutheran Larson, Seth Beulah Prince of Peace Lutheran Lee, Jenna Ray Emmanuel Free Lutheran Lee, Kevin Beulah Prince of Peace Lutheran Lee, Margie Beulah Prince of Peace Lutheran McLoughlin, Flint Minot Bethel Free Lutheran McLoughlin, Paula Minot Bethel Free Lutheran Moan, Cassie Williston Emmanuel Free Lutheran Norby, Samantha Valley City Grace & Zion Free Lutheran Olson, Beth Enderlin Hope AFLC Church of Enderlin Pederson, Karen Tioga Zion Lutheran Presteng, Anne Grafton Bethel Free Lutheran Reagan, Sandy Wahpeton Bethany Free Lutheran Sheldon, Jean Williston Emmanuel Lutheran Strand, Barb Wahpeton Bethany Free Lutheran Strand, David Kindred West Prairie Free Lutheran Strand, Debbie Kindred West Prairie Free Lutheran Strand, Ron Wahpeton Bethany Free Lutheran Undem, Jim Jamestown New Hope Free Lutheran Watt, Lowell Fargo St. Paul’s Free Lutheran 207 Wellumson, Lynn Williston Emmanuel Free Lutheran Zeltinger, Jeremy Valley City Grace Free Lutheran
OHIO Clark, Denise Carroll Peace Free Lutheran Clark, Shane Carroll Peace Free Lutheran Hertlein, Lori Carroll Peace Free Lutheran Rice, Beth Canal Winchester Peace Free Lutheran Rice, Jan Canal Winchester Peace Free Lutheran Winston, Leslie Newark St. John’s Lutheran
OREGON Gunderson, Clara
PENNSYLVANIA Deysher, Karen Fleetwood Living Faith Lutheran Deysher, Steven Fleetwood Living Faith Lutheran Johnson, Vicki Boyertown Living Faith Lutheran Stoudt, Bruce Bechtelsville Living Faith Lutheran Stoudt, Debbie Bechtelsville Living Faith Lutheran
SOUTH CAROLINA Jankord, Steve Fort Mill Abiding Savior Free Lutheran
SOUTH DAKOTA Burmeister, Debra Mount Vernon Amazing Grace Free Lutheran Burmeister, Donald Mount Vernon Amazing Grace Free Lutheran Burmeister, Dustin Mount Vernon Amazing Grace Free Lutheran Coyle, Monica Summerset Shiloh Free Lutheran Engevik, Albert Eden Abiding Faith Free Lutheran Heier, Beverly Prairie City Slim Buttes Free Lutheran Heier, Iver Prairie City Slim Buttes Free Lutheran Lau, Sandy Delmont St. Peter Lutheran Lau, Steve J. Delmont St. Peter Lutheran Lindgren, Judy Madison Good Shepherd & Center McCarlson, Adam Sioux Falls Abiding Savior Free Lutheran McCarlson, Emily Sioux Falls Abiding Savior Free Lutheran McCarlson, Juli Webster Tabor Church Picek, Donna Corsica St. Peter Lutheran Picek, William Corsica St. Peter Lutheran Richardson, Diana Faith Bethel & Emmanuel Smith, Michele Brookings Grace Lutheran Thorson, Jenn Sioux Falls Living Word Free Lutheran
TENNESSEE Busse, Carl Humboldt Ebenezer Free Lutheran Busse, Ruth Humboldt Ebenezer Free Lutheran Cherney, Pamela Humboldt Ebenezer Free Lutheran
TEXAS Ballmann, Natalie San Antonio Trinity San Antonio
WASHINGTON Fish, William Everett Calvary Lutheran Willard, Lori Everett Calvary Lutheran
WISCONSIN Brubakken, Barbara Osceola Cornerstone Lutheran Carlson, Rose Barronett Timberland Ringebu 208 Christenson, Andrea Amery Amery Free Lutheran Fisher, Gwenn Argyle Cornerstone Lutheran Fisher, Steve Argyle Cornerstone Lutheran Hill, Martha Amery Amery Free Lutheran Johnson, Dawn Wilson Christ the King Lutheran Nelson, Kristi La Crosse Christ is Lord Free Lutheran Rautio, Kirk Osceola Solid Rock Free Lutheran Rautio, Ruth Osceola Solid Rock Free Lutheran Rokenbrodt, Michael Chippewa Falls Zion Free Lutheran Sellent, Bruce Almena Amery Free Lutheran Thompson, James Milton Trinity Free Lutheran Timm, Bonnie Wilson Christ the King Van Someren, Roger Amery Amery Free Lutheran Vukonich, Gene Amery Amery Free Lutheran Vukonich, Tammy Amery Amery Free Lutheran Welsch, Betsy Amery Amery Free Lutheran Welsch, Paul Amery Amery Free Lutheran Wick, Marlene Sparta
BRAZIL Abel, Rebecca AFLC Brazil
PARAGUAY Abel, Ednay AFLC Paraguay
LAY VISITOR REGISTRATION Anderson, Terry Eugene, OR Spencer Creek Lutheran Anderson, Paul Minneapolis, MN Christian Investors Financial Culver, Gregory Stanton, ND Our Savior’s Lutheran Culver, Rosemary Stanton, ND Our Savior’s Lutheran Myhrer, Larry Albertville, MN FLBCS Staff Pillman, Josie
209 VITAE Ordinations from May 2020 - August 2020
210 Matthew Abel Ordained August 10th, 2020 at AFLC Annual Conference Osceola, WI
Matthew David Abel was born in September of 1989 in Curitiba, Brazil, where his parents Paul and Rebecca were missionaries. Matthew received baptism as an infant and was instructed in the Word of God throughout his childhood. As an MK and the youngest of four he had good examples teaching him about God’s law and the gospel. Matthew cherishes the upbringing he had and the innumerable opportunities he was given to repent and trust in Jesus. Matthew has had a personal faith relationship with God for as long as he can remember and has responded to God’s gracious call.
When Matthew moved from the mission field to a Lutheran boarding school in Fergus Falls MN to finish High School, he already sensed God calling Him to missions. This sense of calling would mature and develop throughout the following years. Upon completing both years at the FLC, he went to Northwestern where he earned his bachelors degree in InterCultural Studies and Missions. Upon Graduating in 2012 Matthew deployed to the mission field serving in a short-term capacity in Southern Brazil, in the Brazilian Amazon as well as in Central America. In 2015 Matthew accepted a call from the AFLC World Missions to full time career mission work.
The Lord has worked many miracles in Matthew’s life, one in particular was his marriage to Ednay. Matthew and Ednay have been blessed with two children (Zoey and Ian) and a likeminded vision for serving God in rural Paraguay. Matthew is focusing his gift of evangelism toward church- planting among the unreached.
Matthew went to the Free Lutheran Seminary for a time as well as Lutheran Brethren Seminary finally earning a MATS from Faith Lutheran Seminary and an MDiv from Faith International University in the spring of 2019. Most of his graduate studies were completed via distance education while serving on the mission field full-time.
By the grace of God and the power of His Spirit, Matthew Abel looks forward to a lifetime service to kingdom work in South America making disciples for Christ.
211 Kevin Warren Hall Ordained June 14th, 2020 at Bethel Free Lutheran, Grafton, ND
Kevin Hall was born November 11th, 1983 to Warren and Marilyn Hall of Hoople, North Dakota. He was baptized on December 4th of the same year in First Lutheran Church of Hoople, and grew up worshiping there.
Kevin attended North Dakota State University and graduated in 2005 with a B.S. in Agricultural Economics. After graduation he returned to the family farm where he farmed with his father and 6 second cousins. On July 11th, 2009 Kevin married Amy Indridason, and the two now have 3 children, Liam (9), Maggie (7) and Jonah (3).
In 2011, Kevin and Amy made the very hard decision to leave the congregation that Kevin had grown up in and soon after joined Bethel Free Lutheran in Grafton, North Dakota. This move was part of and a key driver of a time of strong spiritual growth for Kevin.
During this time, Kevin spent many hours driving equipment and listening to the Bible. He has many fond memories of listening to specific books of the Bible in specific fields. The Word worked powerfully in his life and Kevin’s desire to study the Bible in further depth continued. Eventually this led Kevin and Amy to consider a call to seminary.
The process of discerning the call and deciding to leave farming was a hard one, but Jesus gave Kevin and his family ample grace and provision at every step.
Kevin is thrilled to have accepted the call as pastor of Westaker Free Lutheran Church in Newfolden, MN.
212 David Lee Handsaker Ordained July 26th, 2020 at St. Paul’s Lutheran, Cloquet, MN
David Handsaker was born on March 21, 1983 to Paul and Bonnie Handsaker. He grew up on the family farm outside of Radcliffe, IA and attended Salem Lutheran Church which was just ¾ of a mile down the road. David was baptized as an infant and has walked with the Lord ever since.
After high school, David attended the University of North Dakota and majored in aviation management. He got his first “real” job as a flight instructor in Nashua, NH at Daniel Webster College. After about a year he got hired at Trans States Airlines and moved to St. Louis, MO for training and then was based there as a first officer. Furloughed 19 months later, David went home to work on the family farm and to figured out what was next.
After settling into life on the farm, he fell in love with opportunities there. Opportunities to be involved in ministry and to have a stable home and social life, better opportunities than the airline pilot life.
David met his wife Lydia (Franz) in 2011 after her older brother Pr. David Franz accepted the call to serve at Salem Lutheran Church. They were married in 2012 and now have 3 beautiful girls: Julia 6, Audrey 4, and Moriah 2.
While working on the farm, David and Lydia were the youth group leaders, along with a few other church responsibilities. God worked on David’s heart through leading these ministries to convince him of the need for men to answer the call to ministry. It was also during this time that God made it clear that farming was not where David was going to spend the rest of his days. David credits his calling to ministry to God and to the faithful prayer of so many within the AFLC who have prayed for God to raise up men for the ministry.
David enjoyed seminary as an amazing time of hard academic work and great relationships being built. He is so thankful for the men and the families that they got to share time with on campus.
David was assigned to Spencer Creek Lutheran Church in Eugene, OR under Pr. Dick Gunderson for internship. During internship David learned a reliance on prayer and witnessed firsthand the effects an encouraging spirit can have on a congregation. David has accepted a call to serve St. Paul’s Evangelical Lutheran Church in Cloquet, MN.
213 Micah Robert Klemme Ordained August 10th, 2020 at AFLC Annual Conference Osceola, WI
The LORD is good to those who wait for him, to the soul who seeks him. It is good that one should wait quietly for the salvation of the LORD. It is good for a man that he bear the yoke in his youth. (Lamentations 3:25-27)
Micah Robert Klemme was born on July 26th, 1992 to Pastor Todd and Miriam Klemme and was baptized on August 30th of the same year. He was confirmed at Minnewaska Lutheran Church in the Spring of 2008. Micah was blessed to have a loving family that raised him in the truth and instruction of God’s Word.
After confirmation, Micah realized how pervasive sin and failure was in his own life. He increasingly became stuck in anxious, self-centered thoughts. He was in a dark place for over a year, feeling distant from both God and neighbor. All this caused Micah to reevaluate what he believed about life. Either nothing mattered or everything mattered. Thank God a pastor explained Lamentations, a book declaring God’s mercy in times of suffering. The Word hit Micah hard, confirming him as a sinner deserving eternal death, but for the sake of the crucified and risen Lord Jesus Christ, he was announced forgiven. Convinced that all Scripture points to the saving work of Christ, a new desire to preach the Word of God awakened in Micah that day.
After graduating high school in 2011, Micah attended Free Lutheran Bible College to learn more about Scripture. He sought a program that would complement the Bible School and found a faithful Lutheran pre- seminary program at Concordia University Wisconsin, where he graduated in 2016 with an undergraduate degree in philosophy. Afterwards, he entered seminary, learning that one will never stop being a student of the Scriptures. Over these years of education, Micah is thankful for family, friends, teachers, and mentors who pointed him to Christ throughout those formative years. He is grateful for the opportunity to carry on the pastoral ministry as his father and grandfather did before him.
Micah has accepted a call as pastor of St. Peter Free Lutheran Church in Melvin, Illinois, where he looks forward to serving the congregation in Word and Sacrament ministry. He is excited to proclaim the ultimate good news of Jesus Christ. Micah now presents himself for ordination. 214 Andrew Ray Kneeland Ordained July 12th, 2020 at Atonement Free Lutheran, Arlington, WA
Andrew is the son of Paul & Ruth Kneeland, born on October 22, 1992 in Temecula, California but raised in several different places. God has been working in his heart since he was baptized, but it wasn’t until Bible College that He gave Andrew the calling to attend seminary to become a parish pastor. It was also during these years spent studying the Bible when God taught him again the depth of his sin and the immeasurably valuable gift of forgiveness provided by Jesus. After graduating from the Free Lutheran Bible College in 2013 Andrew moved to Arlington, Washington and joined Atonement Free Lutheran Church. He married Esther Long in 2014 and worked for several years as a Pastoral Assistant to Pastor Rick Long. Andrew and Esther have two children with one more expected this summer. Titus is four years old and Leah is nearly two. In 2016 Andrew graduated from Thomas Edison State University with a B.A. in history and moved to Plymouth to begin seminary in the fall of 2016.
He interned at St. Ansgar’s Lutheran Church in Salinas, California under the supervision of Pastor Scott Stroud. Following graduation he will enroll in Concordia Seminary in St. Louis, MO to pursue a Ph.D in Historical Theology. During his studies Andrew will be serving Gloria Dei Lutheran Church.
215 Lucas Craig Long Ordained July 12th, 2020 at Atonement Free Lutheran, Arlington, WA
Lucas Craig Long was born on August 15, 1978 to Richard and Barbara Long in Mankato, Minnesota. He was brought to the Lord in baptism and raised in the Christian faith by his parents. Luke was educated at home through grade school and high school. Though he often thought he would not be a pastor, during his high school years he felt God calling him to the ministry. Upon completion of his high school education, Luke pursued training in emergency medicine through the International ALERT (Air Land Emergency Resource Teams) Academy in Watersmeet, Michigan, completing Basic Training and the Crisis Response training with Unit 13 and gaining certifications as a medical first responder, HAM radio operator, search and rescue team member, high-angle rescuer and under-water search and recovery diver with the National Academy of Police Diving, Miami, Florida. He then joined the ALERT outreach team and travelled coast to coast ministering in churches, serving families in poverty and leading father-son camps prior to being deployed to Honduras for a month of rescue work following Hurricane Mitch. During his season on the ministry team, God brought him through a time of brokenness and deep personal revival. It was through this that God ignited a passion to help other young people discover and grow in a living relationship with Jesus. Upon returning home from Honduras, Luke began volunteering with the youth group that had just been started at his church, Atonement Free Lutheran Church. In 1999, he began as a part-time youth worker and administrative assistant at Atonement. As Atonement and the youth ministry grew, Luke’s role grew under the mentorship of his father until it was full-time and also included music ministry, young adult ministry, computers/network/website, etc. In order to continue his education, he also enrolled in a small, two-year Bible School program under the auspices at that time of the Association of Free Lutheran Bible School (AFLBS), called Ambassadors In Ministry (AIM). He married Summer (Brown) on May 27th, 2006 and they now have four boys, Asher (10), August (7), London (4), and Legend (2). In July of 2007, Luke accepted a call to serve as associate pastor working specifically with worship and youth and young adult ministry. He was licensed as a lay pastor with the AFLC and began attending the annual Summer Institute of Theology and doing the accredited class work each Fall. Being grand-fathered into a 12-year program to ordination, Luke completed these years of training, including Greek courses from BibleMesh.com. He is immensely grateful for the loving support and ongoing encouragement of his wife, his parents, and the whole Atonement family which has enabled this incredible opportunity of learning in the context of serving a local congregation where he has ministered now for 21 years. Compelled by the love of His Savior, He is excited to continue in this call however God leads in the days ahead. 216 Brian Lunn Ordained August 2nd, 2020 at Word of Life Free Lutheran, Upsala, MN
Brian James Lunn was born on October 23rd, 1992 in Ames, Iowa, the son of Kevin and Debra Lunn of Randall, Iowa. He was baptized on March 14th, 1993. His parents faithfully taught him God’s Word and raised him to fear and love God.
He attended Roland-Story Community Schools from kindergarten until his graduation in 2011. After a year as an intern at a Bible camp, he continued his education and graduated from AFLBS in 2014, Oak Hills Christian College (Bemidji, Minnesota) in 2016, and the Free Lutheran Seminary in 2020.
Brian married the former Leeanna Zahn of Stratford, Iowa on June 14, 2014 at Stavanger Free Lutheran Church in Garden City, Iowa. They have been blessed with four children: Erik (2015), Caedmon (2016), Lin- nea (2017), and Haakon (2019).
Brian first felt called into the ministry at age eleven. He was attend- ing church with his grandparents, and went to a congregational meeting after church at which the question of calling a new pastor was discussed. He asked his grandmother, “Why is it so hard to find a new pastor?” “Well,” she said, “not that many people want to be pastors anymore.” He thought, “Then I want to be a pastor,” and the idea stuck.
Brian has been a part of several congregations over the years. He was baptized at St. Petri Lutheran in Story City, Iowa (ELCA), raised and confirmed at Elim Lutheran in Randall, Iowa (former ELCA, now LCMC). He joined Stavanger in Garden City, Iowa (AFLC) at age 17, attended First Evangelical Free Church of Boone, Iowa for a year, then joined Grace Free Lutheran of Bagley, Minnesota with his wife in 2014. While in the Bagley area he also did regular pulpit supply for Alida and Rice Free Lutheran of rural Bagley. During Bible school and seminary he attended Plymouth Apostolic Lutheran Church (ALCA), and served his internship at Living Word Lutheran, Eagan, Minnesota.
Brian has accepted a call to serve Word of Life Free Lutheran Church of Upsala, Minnesota, and on the basis of that call presents himself for ordination.
217 Bryce Charles McMinn Ordained June 28th, 2020 at Ruthfred Lutheran, Bethel Park, PA
Born August 31, 1978 in Lancaster, Pennsylvania to James & Stephanie McMinn, Bryce was baptized into the family of Faith in October of that year at St. Stephen’s Lutheran Church in Lancaster. Along with his parents, family members, and the congregation at St. Stephen’s, Bryce’s grandparents, Charles & Laura Flory played a formative role in his spiritual growth.
Bryce graduated from the University of Pittsburgh in 2001 with a bachelor’s degree in Business Administration. He moved to Bethel Park, Pennsylvania, to be closer to his wife and former University of Pittsburgh classmate, Erin, whom he married in 2004. The McMinns were blessed to find and join Ruthfred Lutheran Church in Bethel Park shortly before they were married. The Lord blessed them richly through the faithful preaching and teaching of His Word at Ruthfred by lay leaders and Pastors John Dennis, Brent Olson, James Molstre, and Steven Carlson.
In 2008 Bryce graduated from Geneva College with a master’s degree in Organizational Leadership. The McMinns moved to Harrisburg, Pennsylvania in 2012 where Bryce served as Executive Director of Morning Star Pregnancy Services, a Christian ministry and pregnancy center. While in Harrisburg the McMinns joined Calvary Lutheran Church (LCMS) in Mechanicsburg. Close ties to the family of Faith at Ruthfred remained.
Bryce and Erin are blessed with five children: Noah (13), Elliot (10), Caleb (8), Lillian (7), and Joshua (5), all of whom were baptized at Ruthfred. The McMinns moved to Plymouth, MN in 2016, answering the Lord’s call for Bryce to attend seminary. While in seminary the family attended Grace Free Lutheran Church in Maple Grove, MN. From 2018 to 2019 the McMinns attended Living Word Lutheran Church in Eagan, MN, where Bryce served as Parish Assistant under Pastor Nathan Olson. For the past year the McMinns were blessed to live in Roseau, MN, where Bryce interned under Pastor Todd Erickson at Rose and Spruce Free Lutheran congregations. In March of 2020 the McMinns accepted a call for Bryce to serve as Associate Pastor with Pastor Steven Carlson at their beloved home congregation, Ruthfred Lutheran Church.
The Lord led the McMinns, as a family, to Harrisburg and ministry at Morning Star. As a family the McMinns discerned God’s call for Bryce to attend seminary. As a family they discerned God’s call for Bryce to serve at Ruthfred. As a family the McMinns present Bryce for ordination.
218 Seth Adam Moan Ordained May 31st, 2020 at Solid Rock Free Lutheran, Anoka, MN
Seth Adam Moan was born on January 18th, 1994, in Minot, ND, to Jerry and Rebecca Moan. He was united with Christ and began his walk of faith through baptism which took place at Bethel Free Lutheran Church of Minot, ND, on January 30th of the same year. Seth grew up with his four brothers in Corcoran, MN, and was blessed to attend Solid Rock Free Lutheran Church in Anoka, MN.
Seth’s K-12 education took place at home where he and his brothers were given Christian instruction and were taught to value the Word of God. From a young age, he developed a love for sports and music which provided opportunities for him to build meaningful friendships and to get more involved in his home congregation. During the last two years of high school, Seth began taking college classes through the University of Northwestern – St. Paul.
After graduating from high school in 2013, Seth attended the Free Lutheran Bible College where God began to shape his perspective on his calling in life. Seth began to seriously consider how he could best be used by God to impact human souls for eternity. Through various conversations, traveling on the Ambassadors summer team, and studying the Word, God led him to begin preparing for pastoral ministry.
Following his time at FLBC, Seth attended Crown College where he completed his B.A. in Biblical & Theological Studies. It was there that God brought his wife Cassie (Maier) into his life. They were married in the summer of 2017, and have been blessed with the birth of their daughter Kate who was born in December, 2019.
Throughout Seth’s time in seminary and on internship at Christ the King Free Lutheran Church in Pipestone, MN, God has continued to prove Himself faithful. During this time of preparation, Seth has been equipped for ministry and is thankful for the reminder that in his weaknesses, God shows Himself to be strong.
Seth and Cassie are thrilled for the opportunity to serve the Lord together as Seth has accepted a call to serve as Associate Pastor at Emmanuel Free Lutheran Church in Williston, ND. Seth now presents himself for ordination. 219 Erin Neil Tormanen Ordained August 30th, 2020 at Our Savior’s Free Lutheran, Stanely, ND
Erin Neil Tormanen was born to Richard and Anne in Robbinsdale MN. He was baptized as an infant, attended and was confirmed in an Apostolic Lutheran church. Most of Erin’s growing up years were spent on a farm in Dassel MN where he lived with his parents, 4 brothers, and 2 sisters.
Erin graduated from the Dassel-Cokato High School and went directly into the Navy where he studied Aviation Electronics. When his active duty was complete he continued his service in the Naval Reserves. In 1997 he received an Elementary Education degree from St Cloud State University.
On March 9th, 1991 Erin married Jennifer (Jen) Niska and God has blessed them with 5 fantastic children: Their first baby, Jordan lived for 3 days before he passed away. They also have 4 daughters; Markita, Victoria, Whitney and Natalie. The Lord has continued to bless their family; they have a wonderful son-in-law JoHann Freeberg and a beautiful granddaughter Kjaere.
Erin and Jen encountered some major life challenges which revealed to them their great need of help and strength that only God could provide. They prayerfully sought to find Bible-teaching church and the Lord led them to the AFLC and the Good Shepherd Free Lutheran church in Cokato MN. There they received biblical teaching through Law and Gospel sermon’s which brought immense growth in their faith and a hunger for knowing and living out God’s Word.
God’s call on Erin’s life to go to seminary was most unexpected! He had plans to study to become a Biblical counselor but the Lord’s plan was much different and through a variety of ways, God made His call clear that going to seminary was where Erin needed to be. Caring for the souls of people is a passion for him.
Erin spent his internship year in Stanley ND under Pastor Rodney Johnson at Our Savior’s Free Lutheran in Stanley and First English Free Lutheran in rural Lostwood ND. He has accepted a pastoral call to Our Savior’s Free Lutheran in Stanley and both he and Jen are so excited about what God has for them in ministry.
220 Brian Westerbur Ordained July 25th, 2020 at Bethel Free Lutheran, Grafton, ND
Brian John Westerbur was born November 16, 1989 in Pipestone, Minne- sota, to John and Laurie Westerbur. He grew up in Ihlen, Minnesota, a town of sixty people. He was baptized as an infant at Christ the King Lutheran Church in Pipestone, and confirmed in his faith there. He enjoyed being involved with their youth praise band and youth group. Brian did all his pri- mary schooling in Pipestone, where he was involved in track and field, band (euphonium), choir, and boy scouting, achieving Eagle Scout merit in 2007.
He attended Gustavus Adolphus College, studying History and Classical Studies, where he met his wife, Allison (Buchnis), an English major. They helped organize Bible studies and lead student worship services on campus. They were married in October 2013.
Following their marriage, Brian became a youth director in Wisconsin. Brian and Allie both partook in multiple domestic and international mission trips, and grew in love for church ministry. Through some months of prayer with his wife, and through the affirmation of some previous pastors and his supervising pastor in Appleton, Brian discerned the call to seminary prepara- tion. This discerned call to prepare led them to Free Lutheran Seminary in Plymouth, Minnesota.
During seminary, Brian grew in his understanding of what it means to be saved by grace alone; and that God works in power through His Word. Over Brian’s second year in seminary, his father was diagnosed with brain cancer and passed away within one year. Throughout his father’s cancer, Brian med- itated on James 1:17: “Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of lights, with whom there is no variation or shadow due to change.” God’s true gift of unchanging love is the motivation for Brian to minister to others who are suffering or experiencing loss.
The Westerburs were assigned internship at Ruthfred Lutheran Church in Bethel Park, Pennsylvania. Brian’s time at Ruthfred solidified his call to pastoral ministry, as he grew deeper in love with sharing the Gospel with a congregation.
On March 1, 2020, Brian enthusiastically accepted the call to serve and shepherd Bethel Free Lutheran Church. He and Allie are grateful to be in such a loving community and church family.
221 AFLC CONGREGATIONAL STATISTICS FOR 2019
222 8 12 14 12 13 15 12 24 12 12 12 12 12 12 26 10 # COMS 7 7 9 9 7 48 12 35 74 25 40 51 50 15 15 52 # MIDW 52 53 52 51 47 50 52 52 60 50 50 52 52 51 50 116 # WOR 1 2 0 2 0 4 1 1 6 1 1 0 2 3 1 3 MA - FUN 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 1 0 0 0 MA - MAR 3 1 1 2 0 4 2 8 0 2 0 1 4 0 14 MA - CONF 2 0 0 2 1 0 2 5 2 2 0 2 2 2 15 BAP MA - 4 0 2 3 9 2 8 2 1 6 2 6 6 12 16 18 SS - SS - TEACH 0 0 5 5 6 18 10 25 10 42 10 40 30 30 22 15 SS - SS - ADULT 0 3 8 2 18 12 18 25 25 10 15 35 42 18 17 110 SS - K12 16 90 25 35 35 28 97 35 67 23 50 85 65 65 113 123 300 ATT Member Member 35 66 88 61 56 48 25 70 80 80 140 133 118 200 100 105 390 CONF Member Member 45 66 68 61 75 25 80 110 200 170 147 200 130 139 115 460 105 BAB Member Member 2017 2019 2019 2019 2019 2019 2017 2019 2015 2019 2019 2019 2017 2019 2017 2019 2019 Stat Year Stat Church Name & Location & Name Church Boscobel, WI - Trinity Lutheran Church Boscobel, - Trinity WI Dexter, MN- ZionDexter, Lutheran Church Cannon Falls, MN- OurLutheran ChurchEv. Saviour's Frost, MN Lutheran - Church Dell Eagle Grove, IA - Holmes Ev Lutheran ChurchEv - Holmes IA Grove, Eagle Kasson, MN- Mt. Sion Lutheran Church Jewell, IA - St. Paul's IA Lutheran Church Jewell, Garden City, IA - Stavanger Free Lutheran Church Free - Stavanger IA City, Garden Fairbank, IA - Lord Of The Harvest Lutheran Church Harvest The - Lord Of Fairbank, IA Ellendale,- First MNChurch Lutheran Kenyon, MN - Emmanuel Lutheran Church MN- Emmanuel Kenyon, Onalaska, WI - Christ Lord Is Lutheran Church WI Onalaska, Mankato, MN - Word Of Life Free Lutheran Church Free Life Mankato, MN- Word Of Kenyon, MN - Hauge Lutheran Church MN- Hauge Kenyon, Radcliffe, IA - Salem Lutheran Church - Salem IA Radcliffe, Zumbrota, MN - Our Saviour's Lutheran Church Saint James, MN- Hosanna Lutheran Church Free Saint James, 223 26 26 13 17 54 30 14 14 15 43 12 # COMS 5 2 3 41 61 15 48 46 77 64 150 # MIDW 57 52 52 52 52 54 52 52 54 104 125 # WOR 2 1 1 5 5 2 1 2 2 12 FUN MA - 1 4 0 2 0 0 0 0 0 0 3 MA - MAR 1 2 0 0 0 1 0 0 1 0 MA - CONF 2 2 1 0 4 1 2 0 0 0 12 BAP MA - 5 2 2 2 6 2 2 2 12 30 10 SS - SS - TEACH 8 8 8 25 25 20 12 10 28 71 32 SS - SS - ADULT 4 0 0 3 0 6 20 14 12 15 29 SS - K12 26 24 64 69 52 54 44 25 45 66 126 106 367 ATT Member - Member 31 56 65 85 54 79 870 114 110 106 110 114 912 CONF Member Member 31 61 94 90 55 79 121 120 118 124 161 1224 1071 BAB Member - Member YR 2019 2017 2017 2019 2015 2015 2019 2019 2019 2017 2017 2019 2019 STAT Reading, PA - Alsace Lutheran Church Reading, PA - Alsace Canfield, OH - Paradise OH Canfield, Lutheran Church Evangelical PA Township, - St. John'sLovi of Cranberry Church Name & Location & Name Church Trenton, MI - Stronghold Lutheran Church Hagerstown, MD - Christ Community Church MD- Christ Community Hagerstown, Lutheran MD- St.Free Paul'sHagerstown, Evangelical Landisburg, PA - Mt. Zion Lutheran Church Lutheran Church Free Memorial PA - Tressler Loysville, Millerstown, Lutheran Church PA - St. Matthew - St. OH John'sLutheran Church Newark, Boyertown, PA - Living Faith Lutheran Church PA - Living Boyertown, Bethel Park, PA - Ruthfred Lutheran Church Canal Winchester, OH - Peace Free Lutheran Church 224 6 7 6 6 12 12 12 12 12 16 12 13 11 13 14 12 12 44 13 12 12 12 150 # COMS 7 0 0 0 0 6 4 4 7 6 50 14 52 11 18 10 36 45 37 13 89 48 18 # MIDW 47 52 52 50 51 45 48 52 52 50 53 48 48 60 52 50 49 52 47 51 50 49 150 # WOR 2 6 4 1 0 2 2 1 2 0 0 7 3 1 2 3 0 1 1 1 0 3 0 FUN MA - 0 1 2 2 1 3 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 4 0 0 0 1 0 0 0 0 MA - MAR 2 9 4 3 2 9 0 0 5 0 0 4 0 0 2 7 4 2 1 0 0 0 1 MA - CONF 1 2 6 6 0 5 0 0 2 1 0 0 2 5 3 1 2 1 0 0 2 10 10 BAP MA - 0 8 6 6 0 1 5 0 0 4 0 4 0 0 0 5 19 10 10 12 12 14 SS - SS - TEACH 0 0 4 0 0 0 0 8 0 0 0 0 70 30 12 11 12 46 15 50 46 10 SS - SS - ADULT 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 75 25 17 60 15 36 59 35 40 68 38 15 16 SS - SS - K12 9 9 28 55 15 60 12 25 55 15 15 10 38 15 24 16 80 44 159 140 113 161 112 ATT 70-80 Member - Member 73 65 46 45 41 81 41 75 42 31 75 65 36 50 21 60 46 413 101 437 112 162 167 CONF Member - Member 78 78 62 45 41 47 48 39 38 33 60 29 78 66 493 111 566 102 115 116 209 273 229 115 741 BAP Member - Member YR 2019 2017 2019 2019 2017 2017 2019 2019 2017 2019 2017 2019 2019 2019 2017 2019 2019 2019 2017 2019 2019 2019 2015 2019 2015 STAT Valley City, ND - Zion ND Tsp Lutheran Church City, Green Valley Valley City, ND Free - Grace Lutheran Church Starkweather, ND - Trinity Bergen Lutheran Church Bergen - Trinity ND Starkweather, Portland, Lutheran Church Free - Valley ND Park River, ND - Victory Free Lutheran Church Free - Victory Park ND River, Northwood, - LutheranEbenezer Church ND Minnewaukan, ND - Trinity Free Lutheran Church Free - Trinity ND Minnewaukan, McVille, ND - New Luther Valley Lutheran Church Luther Valley McVille, - New ND Leonard, ND - West Prairie Lutheran Church Free - West Leonard, ND Manvel, ND - Middle Grove Lutheran Church - Middle ND Manvel, Grove Larimore, ND - Living Faith Lutheran Church Free - Living ND Larimore, Hampden, ND - Zoar ND Lutheran ChurchHampden, Jamestown, ND - New Hope Lutheran Church Free - New ND Jamestown, Grafton, ND - Bethel Free Lutheran Church - Bethel Free ND Grafton, Lutheran Church Free Forks,- Trinity ND Grand Fargo, ND - St.Fargo, ND Paul's Lutheran ChurchFree Enderlin, Church Enderlin of - Hope ND AFLC Egeland, ND - Lakeview Lutheran Church Egeland, - Lakeview ND Edinburg, ND - Grace Free Lutheran Church Free Edinburg, - Grace ND Edmore, ND - Living Word Lutheran Church - Living ND Edmore, Devils Lake, ND - Christ Lutheran ND Church Free Lake, Devils Churchs Ferry, ND - North ND Churchs Prairie Lutheran Ferry, Free Buxton, ND - Ny Stavanger Free Lutheran Church Free Stavanger Buxton, - Ny ND Binford, ND - Bethany Lutheran Church Binford, - Bethany ND Church Name & Location & Name Church Abercrombie, ND - Bethany Free Lutheran Church Free - Bethany ND Abercrombie, 225 52 12 13 14 20 12 13 14 14 25 29 13 24 16 14 14 54 12 12 16 36 16 30 # COMS 0 0 9 9 4 9 6 9 3 8 11 52 25 91 10 17 55 39 40 12 48 10 36 131 # MIDW 52 52 52 52 60 25 52 52 52 52 52 53 52 51 52 54 50 52 62 64 52 58 99 51 51 # WOR 0 2 0 1 6 3 6 3 9 5 4 0 1 4 0 0 0 1 5 0 4 2 3 15 15 FUN MA - 0 0 0 0 1 2 1 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 2 5 0 0 2 0 10 MA - MAR 0 1 4 8 2 0 6 1 7 1 1 4 0 0 6 3 0 1 1 0 0 0 1 1 14 MA - CONF CONF 1 3 0 2 9 0 3 1 3 2 3 3 1 0 5 0 0 3 7 2 4 1 3 0 13 BAP MA - 7 6 9 8 0 4 8 7 3 9 5 6 4 3 3 4 3 6 6 4 2 4 13 18 SS - TEACH 0 6 7 3 2 9 0 0 15 13 42 18 61 12 16 23 11 25 14 17 12 35 18 21 SS - ADULT 0 7 4 9 7 4 0 1 7 8 9 17 23 50 35 34 35 12 24 40 12 80 16 29 K12 SS - 17 63 60 25 34 37 90 76 44 34 37 15 15 39 40 60 75 25 60 350 107 171 108 100 233 ATT MEM - 0 50 52 55 38 56 31 50 28 42 99 90 88 250 372 466 257 193 161 151 140 643 147 150 CONF MEM - 1 80 52 62 38 70 47 50 28 51 88 311 300 527 594 336 218 210 162 144 816 151 172 202 125 BAP MEM - YR 2019 2019 2011 2009 2017 2017 2019 2019 2019 2017 2019 2017 2011 2019 2019 2011 2019 2019 2011 2017 2015 2013 2015 2019 2019 STAT STAT Whitestown, IN - St. Mark's Lutheran Church Lutheran Mark's - St. IN Whitestown, Wheatland, IA - Christian Free Lutheran Church Lutheran Free - Christian IA Wheatland, Sheridan, IL - Fox River Lutheran Church IL Lutheran River - Fox Sheridan, Ottawa, IL - Freedom Lutheran Church Ottawa, Lutheran IL - Freedom Newark, IL - Newark Lutheran Church ILLutheran Newark, - Newark Newark, IL - Lisbon Bethlehem Ev Lutheran Church Ev Lutheran IL Bethlehem Newark, - Lisbon Newark, IL - Helmar Lutheran Church IL Lutheran Newark, - Helmar Morris, IL - Grace Evangelical Lutheran Church Lutheran IL Evangelical Morris, - Grace Morris, IL - Bethlehem Lutheran Church Lutheran ILMorris, - Bethlehem Montgomery, IL - St. Olaf Lutheran Church IL Olaf Montgomery, - St. Lutheran Mineral Point, WI - Faith Lutheran of Mineral Point of Mineral Lutheran Point, WI - Faith Mineral Milford, IL - St. John's Lutheran Of Schwer IL Lutheran Milford, John's - St. Metropolis, IL - St. Stephen's Lutheran Church Lutheran IL Stephen's - St. Metropolis, Metropolis, IL - Faith Lutheran Church Lutheran IL - Faith Metropolis, Melvin, IL - St. Peter's Lutheran Church Lutheran IL Peter's - St. Melvin, Church Name & Location Lincoln, IL - Good Shepherd Lutheran Church Leland, IL - St. Petrie Lutheran Church Lutheran IL Petrie Leland, - St. Janesville, WI - Trinity Free Lutheran Church Lutheran Free WI - Trinity Janesville, Indianapolis, IN - St. Mark's Free Lutheran Church Lutheran Free Mark's - St. IN Indianapolis, Gifford, IL - St. Paul's Evangelical Lutheran Church Lutheran IL Evangelical Gifford, Paul's - St. Dekalb, IL - Grace Free Lutheran Church Lutheran IL Free - Grace Dekalb, Brodhead, WI - Bethany Lutheran Church Lutheran WI - Bethany Brodhead, Bensenville, IL - Grace Lutheran Church IL Lutheran - Grace Bensenville, Ashkum, IL - Zion Lutheran Church IL Lutheran - Zion Ashkum, Argyle, WI -Cornerstone Lutheran Church Lutheran WI -Cornerstone Argyle, 226 12 12 13 12 12 13 52 12 # COMS 0 7 2 46 30 51 24 45 # MIDW 54 51 52 52 52 52 52 52 # WOR 7 6 1 0 2 2 4 FUN MA - 1 0 1 0 2 0 1 MA - MAR 2 0 2 0 0 0 2 MA - CONF 3 1 1 1 2 0 2 BAP MA - 8 3 5 2 2 0 2 3 SS - TEACH 6 0 0 0 25 12 12 12 SS - SS - ADULT 5 0 2 7 21 13 10 14 SS - SS - K12 46 70 35 31 14 24 25 110 ATT MEM - 79 80 68 51 24 30 169 135 CONF MEM - 95 95 93 60 44 55 185 165 BAP MEM - YR 2019 2019 2005 2017 2017 2017 2019 2019 STAT Cloquet, MN- St. Paul'sLutheran Church Church Name & Location & Name Church Duluth, Lutheran Church MN- Augustana Duluth, MN- St. John's Lutheran ChurchFree Finlayson, MN- St. John'sLutheran Church Lutheran ChurchFree Mason,- Our Savior's WI Superior, WI - Our Redeemer's Free Lutheran ChurchFree Superior, - Our Redeemer's WI Tamarack, MN - Tamarack Lutheran MN- Tamarack, Tamarack Church Virginia, MN- Good Shepherd Lutheran Church 227 12 14 52 13 14 12 13 12 12 63 25 54 27 12 13 12 54 25 # COMS 6 0 8 6 45 50 78 27 34 47 60 12 10 20 45 50 100 210 # MIDW 51 52 54 50 52 52 52 52 52 52 52 53 52 52 54 50 108 102 # WOR 0 1 1 2 1 3 4 1 0 2 5 0 3 2 1 1 1 11 MA - FUN 0 2 0 3 1 1 0 0 3 0 0 1 0 2 1 3 1 0 MA - MAR 1 4 0 6 3 0 0 0 4 0 3 0 1 0 2 2 0 0 MA - CONF 2 2 1 3 5 2 3 0 0 5 3 4 3 2 2 3 1 10 MA - BAP 7 2 3 6 4 5 3 5 6 3 5 2 25 33 12 11 14 30 SS - TEACH 0 55 20 14 20 12 35 12 30 30 30 75 30 10 12 18 102 30-40 SS - SS - ADULT 9 8 5 5 8 5 40 15 16 74 38 17 70 13 70 61 30 25 SS - SS - K12 95 80 55 26 89 60 56 50 45 83 50 26 270 151 225 220 170 110 MEM - ATT 75 46 98 57 70 70 88 59 113 108 555 345 100 219 254 102 MEM - CONF 80 58 82 79 76 99 85 77 152 121 987 400 114 123 313 220 287 MEM - BAP 2019 2019 2015 2017 2019 2017 2019 2019 2019 2019 2019 2019 2019 2017 2015 2019 2019 2019 STAT YR Anoka, MN- Solid Lutheran ChurchAnoka, Free Rock Amery, WI - Amery Free Lutheran Church Free - Amery WI Amery, Barronett, WI - Timberland Ringebu Lutheran Church Free - Barronett,Timberland WI Bloomington, MN - Emmaus Lutheran Church Bloomington, MN - Emmaus Church Name & Location & Name Church Cokato, MN- Good Shepherd Lutheran Church Free Colfax, WI - Faith Lutheran WI Church Running of Colfax, Valley Eagan, MN - Living Word Lutheran Church MN- Living Eagan, Lutheran MN Church- Minnesota Free Valley Lakeville, Maple Grove, MN - Grace Free Lutheran Church Free MN- Grace MapleGrove, Minneapolis, MN- Faith Lutheran Church Free Mora, Vine MN- True Lutheran Church Minneapolis, MN- Hope Lutheran Church Plymouth, MN - Vision Of Glory Lutheran Church Plymouth, MN- Vision Glory Of Rogers, MN - Living Hope Church MN- Living Rogers, Shakopee, MN- Faith Lutheran Church Shakopee, MN - King Of Glory Lutheran Church Glory Shakopee, MN- Of King Stacy, MNLutheran - Church Sunnyside Free Stacy, Wilson, WI - Christ Wilson,the WI Lutheran King Church 228 14 15 17 25 14 51 # COMS 8 1 10 10 11 22 # MIDW 52 53 52 52 52 51 # WOR 0 3 6 0 8 0 FUN MA - 0 0 1 0 2 0 MA - MAR 0 0 3 8 3 0 MA - CONF 1 4 2 0 5 0 BAP MA - 3 5 4 8 0 10 SS - TEACH 0 15 12 45 27 25 SS - SS - ADULT 8 8 0 10 35 33 SS - SS - K12 33 50 98 35 78 11 ATT MEM - 77 57 13 198 232 269 CONF MEM - 78 13 129 280 294 363 BAP MEM - YR 2019 2017 2019 2019 2017 2019 STAT Deshler, NE - Abiding Word Lutheran Church Word Abiding NELutheran Deshler, - Fairbury, NE - Faith Lutheran Church Lutheran Faith NE - Fairbury, Church United Lutheran NE - Laurel, Hope Of Church Lutheran - CO Loveland, Church Peace- Francis, KS Lutheran Saint Church Lutheran Mission - CO Swink, Church Name & Location & Name Church 229 6 8 12 12 12 13 12 12 14 20 12 12 13 13 13 # COMS 8 0 4 4 42 45 45 27 52 52 34 70 22 76 45 # MIDW 47 52 52 48 49 52 52 51 52 48 49 49 52 51 52 # WOR 2 0 1 1 1 3 0 3 3 0 3 5 2 9 0 FUN MA - 0 0 1 0 0 0 0 5 2 0 1 1 0 0 0 MA - MAR 0 2 0 0 0 0 3 6 7 0 0 4 0 1 0 MA - CONF 0 0 2 1 1 1 2 2 3 0 0 2 0 0 2 BAP MA - 5 2 5 0 2 3 8 3 0 3 4 3 17 11 SS - TEACH 6 0 0 9 0 0 0 10 16 22 25 30 20 16 SS - SS - ADULT 7 6 0 1 6 6 0 16 46 32 32 12 11 10 SS - SS - K12 23 28 60 20 40 45 75 90 80 20 30 90 20 60 35 ATT MEM - 60 58 88 44 96 83 80 12 61 55 62 251 172 204 120 CONF MEM - 66 68 45 21 87 75 83 597 342 127 110 215 100 241 130 BAP MEM - YR 2019 2015 2019 2019 2019 2017 2017 2019 2017 2019 2019 2019 2013 2019 2013 STAT Winger, MN - Dovre Free Lutheran Church Free MN- Dovre Winger, Shevlin, MN- Lutheran Landstad Church Northome, MN- Northome, Hope Lutheran Church Mizpah, MN- Lutheran Bethesda Church Mentor, MN - Maple Bay Free Lutheran Church Free Mentor, MN- MapleBay McIntosh, Lutheran Church MN- Trinity McIntosh, MN - Mt. Carmel Free Lutheran McIntosh, Church Free MN- Mt. Carmel Fosston, MN - Calvary Free Lutheran Church Free Fosston, MN- Calvary Blackduck, MN- FaithBlackduck, Lutheran Church Bemidji, MN - Bethany Free Lutheran Church Free MN- Bethany Bemidji, Lutheran Church Free MN- Trinity Bemidji, Beltrami, MN- Resurrection Lutheran Church Free Beltrami, Bagley, MN - Rice Lutheran Church MN- Rice Bagley, Bagley, MN - Grace Free Lutheran Church Free MN- Grace Bagley, Bagley, MN - Alida Lutheran Church MN- Alida Bagley, Church Name & Location & Name Church 230 12 12 12 13 24 14 13 12 50 # COMS 0 0 48 49 33 38 50 12 17 # MIDW 51 51 51 60 45 54 52 54 53 # WOR 0 0 2 0 0 2 4 1 2 FUN MA - 0 1 0 2 0 1 0 1 0 MA - MAR 0 0 2 0 0 1 0 0 0 MA - CONF 0 0 2 3 0 2 2 1 7 BAP MA - 0 0 8 2 0 7 4 2 1 SS - TEACH 0 0 8 0 0 0 0 12 10 SS - SS - ADULT 0 0 3 0 5 7 7 5 36 SS - SS - K12 6 21 21 18 26 57 35 18 105 ATT MEM - 9 20 20 25 75 54 50 24 285 CONF MEM - 9 29 30 36 79 60 50 34 347 BAP MEM - YR 2017 2015 2019 2017 2015 2017 2015 2017 STAT Chassell, MI Lutheran ChurchChassell, - Maranatha Free Church Name & Location & Name Church Eben Junction, MI - Calvary Free Lutheran Eben Church Free Junction, MI - Calvary Escanaba, MI - Escanaba Free Lutheran Church Hawks, MI - St.Peter LutheranChurch Hawks, Ishpeming, MI - Hope Free Evangelical Lutheran Church MI - Hope Evangelical Ishpeming, Free Ontonagon, MI - Redeemer Free Lutheran Church Free Ontonagon, MI - Redeemer Felch, MI - Abiding Word Lutheran Church Pelkie, MI - Grace Free Lutheran Church Free Pelkie, MI - Grace Shingleton, MI - Christ Lutheran Church 231 15 14 12 12 12 14 12 13 12 19 12 12 12 13 # COMS 0 0 4 4 1 45 27 27 50 20 10 46 30 60 # MIDW 52 49 50 50 53 51 52 50 46 84 47 51 52 50 # WOR 1 2 2 2 0 0 5 0 1 3 2 1 5 FUN MA - 0 0 0 0 0 0 2 0 0 1 0 1 0 0 MA - MAR 5 0 2 0 0 2 7 0 1 1 2 2 0 2 MA - CONF 4 1 1 6 4 0 5 3 0 7 0 1 0 2 BAP MA - 4 5 2 8 2 6 7 0 2 1 2 3 10 11 SS - TEACH 0 0 0 4 8 1 0 0 25 10 14 10 15 20 SS - SS - ADULT 6 3 0 4 1 5 5 48 12 22 16 22 80 40 SS - SS - K12 87 20 40 39 20 68 55 27 13 25 30 100 125 121 ATT MEM - 50 27 72 80 35 37 56 75 218 300 103 179 243 CONF MEM - 58 36 76 40 37 65 85 240 345 115 130 234 302 BAP MEM - YR 2019 2013 2019 2019 2017 2017 2019 2019 2017 2019 2019 2019 2017 2019 2019 STAT Church Name & Location & Name Church Badger, MN - Badger Creek Lutheran Church Creek MN- Badger Badger, Argyle, MN - Our Lutheran ChurchSavior's Argyle, Argyle, MN - Alma Lutheran Church MN- Alma Argyle, Badger, MN- OilandBadger, Lutheran Church Greenbush, MN- United Lutheran Church Free East Grand Forks, MN - Christ The King Free Lutheran Forks, MN Free - King Grand ChristEast The Goodridge, MNChurch- Reiner Lutheran Free Roseau, Lutheran Church MN- Free Roseau of Newfolden, MN - Westaker Free Lutheran Church Free MN- Westaker Newfolden, Roseau, Lutheran Church MN- Free Rose Salol, MN- Norland Lutheran Church Free Salol, MN- Spruce Lutheran Church Free Strandquist, Lutheran Church MNFree - Hegland Church Falls, MN- Abundant River Life Thief Thief River Falls, MN- OurLutheran Church Saviour's River Thief 232 27 13 12 12 13 12 37 11 12 13 12 100 # COMS 9 10 32 10 55 50 55 65 17 46 48 116 # MIDW 52 55 52 52 52 53 47 52 51 79 52 104 # WOR 1 3 0 3 2 5 1 3 2 3 6 2 FUN MA - 0 0 0 2 0 1 2 0 0 1 2 0 MA - MAR 0 9 0 1 0 3 0 1 0 0 2 13 MA - CONF 8 5 0 1 0 4 1 1 0 0 8 4 BAP MA - 5 8 1 6 4 3 2 1 8 10 12 10 SS - TEACH 8 8 8 4 24 10 20 20 12 15 75 40 SS - SS - ADULT 4 6 4 0 16 27 18 10 30 19 75 86 SS - SS - K12 98 25 72 83 92 91 25 31 24 54 375 139 ATT MEM - 49 22 90 22 50 150 131 138 158 105 123 108 CONF MEM - 25 22 50 104 177 114 143 144 154 110 158 124 BAP MEM - YR 2017 2017 2019 2019 2019 2017 2017 2019 2019 2019 2019 2019 STAT Lake Stevens, WA - Elim Lutheran Church - Elim WA Stevens, Lake Church Lutheran Life of Lord - WA Vernon, Mount Arlington, WA - Atonement Free Lutheran Church Free - Atonement Arlington, WA Church Name & Location & Name Church Kalispell, MT - Stillwater Free Lutheran ChurchFree - Stillwater Kalispell, MT Astoria, OR - Bethany Lutheran Church - OR Bethany Astoria, Lutheran Church Brookings,- OR Trinity Dillon,Lutheran - ChurchOur Savior's MT Lutheran Church - Eugene, OR Spencer Creek Lutheran Church - Calvary WA Everett, Lutheran Church - Triumph Ferndale, WA - Faith Lutheran ChurchKalispell, MT Free Lutheran Church - Our Redeemer Kirkland, WA 233 52 25 26 25 14 52 27 25 54 26 14 28 12 13 # COMS 0 4 9 1 3 9 3 1 50 13 70 13 30 44 # MIDW 52 52 52 52 56 58 51 52 54 53 53 52 52 48 # WOR 0 2 4 2 0 0 4 1 0 2 0 2 0 0 FUN MA - 0 1 0 0 0 0 1 1 0 0 0 1 0 0 MA - MAR 0 0 2 0 2 0 4 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 MA - CONF 0 2 1 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 0 4 2 0 BAP MA - 2 3 3 6 2 0 4 4 3 3 2 2 0 SS - TEACH 0 4 4 6 0 13 25 14 17 10 13 14 20 SS - SS - ADULT 1 6 6 8 0 6 5 3 5 3 2 0 10 SS - SS - K12 10 50 45 25 23 15 30 20 20 29 26 93 11 10 ATT MEM - 0 13 75 23 26 57 25 26 15 17 23 15 125 161 CONF MEM - 0 13 85 35 30 69 34 26 30 20 29 18 146 216 BAP MEM - YR 2019 2019 2019 2017 2017 2019 2019 2019 2017 2013 2019 2017 2017 2019 2019 2019 STAT Bastrop, - TX CrossRoadsChristian Fellowship Lutheran Fellowship - TX Free Church Brownsville, San Juan, PR - Resurrection Lutheran Durant, - Faith OK Lutheran Church Church Name & Location & Name Church El Campo, TX - TX FaithEl Campo, Lutheran Church Humboldt, TN - Ebenezer Free Lutheran Church- Free Ebenezer Humboldt, TN Kopperl, Truth Lutheran Church - TX Word Of Marksville, LA - St. Paul'sLutheran Church LA Marksville, - First OK Lutheran Church City, Oklahoma Pleasanton, TX - Good Shepherd Lutheran Church Lutheran Shepherd Good - TX Pleasanton, Saint Louis, MO - Gloria Dei Lutheran Church Lutheran Dei Saint Louis, - Gloria MO Silverhill, AL - Zion Lutheran ChurchSilverhill, AL Springfield, MO - Immanuel Lutheran Church Springfield, MO- Immanuel Stover, MO- Christ Lutheran Church Lutheran Church Life Of - TX Crown Tomball, Welasco, TX - TX Faith Lutheran ChurchWelasco, 234 9 16 15 13 13 14 11 12 16 12 12 12 12 51 16 14 14 37 13 15 12 13 17 12 12 13 # COMS 6 6 7 9 4 9 6 3 11 10 36 10 15 11 30 20 10 40 15 28 20 12 31 24 72 18 # MIDW 48 49 51 49 54 50 46 50 48 50 52 50 51 51 53 50 50 52 43 52 48 46 49 47 50 156 # WOR 2 3 2 8 7 0 2 0 3 0 1 0 0 0 8 0 2 0 1 3 2 1 2 0 9 12 FUN MA - 1 0 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 0 0 0 4 0 3 4 1 0 1 0 0 2 0 1 MA - MAR 2 1 0 6 2 0 0 0 0 1 0 4 1 0 8 0 1 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 3 25 MA - CONF 5 4 1 6 2 0 1 0 2 0 0 2 1 0 5 0 1 2 0 2 2 0 6 0 1 14 BAP MA - 9 6 6 1 3 3 4 6 0 6 3 4 3 4 1 4 4 4 3 1 4 15 14 20 77 22 SS - TEACH 0 0 6 0 0 0 0 7 6 3 6 0 6 51 13 10 11 12 12 20 75 10 35 11 273 SS - SS - ADULT 0 7 0 8 4 3 0 2 7 0 3 39 19 13 42 54 11 10 12 71 16 12 72 14 22 277 SS - SS - K12 54 81 89 21 28 38 19 40 19 32 37 25 28 55 24 25 26 68 10 44 112 104 167 672 175 16.3 ATT MEM - 0 70 70 46 38 38 71 32 55 42 70 43 23 39 36 60 182 132 306 182 273 109 753 106 107 120 CONF MEM - 79 54 38 45 85 37 69 50 70 91 50 26 53 40 61 216 109 162 392 219 336 139 916 161 148 150 BAP MEM - YR 2019 2017 2019 2019 2019 2017 2017 2019 2019 2011 2013 2017 2019 2017 2017 2017 2019 2013 2019 2019 2019 2019 2017 2017 2019 2017 2019 2019 STAT Arlington, SD - Calvary Free Lutheran Church Free Arlington, SD- Calvary Church Name & Location & Name Church Beresford, SD - Skrefsrud Lutheran Church SD- Skrefsrud Beresford, Armour, SD- St. PeterArmour, Lutheran Church Black Hawk, SD- Shiloh Lutheran Church Hawk, Free Black Lutheran Church Bruce, SD- Grace Canton, SD - Redeemer Free Lutheran Church Free Canton, SD- Redeemer Centerville, SD - Immanuel Free Lutheran ChurchLutheran Free - Immanuel SD Centerville, Delmont, SD- HopeDelmont, Lutheran Church Chamberlain, SD - St. Olaf Lutheran Church SD- St.Chamberlain, Olaf Eagle Butte, SD - Emmanuel Free Lutheran Church Free Butte, SD- Eagle Emmanuel Faith, SD- Bethel Lutheran Church Freeman, SD - Salem Free Lutheran Church Free SD- Salem Freeman, Madison, SD - Good Shepherd Free Lutheran Church Lutheran Free Shepherd Good - SD Madison, Mitchell, Free SD Grace Lutheran- Amazing Pipestone, MNLutheran - King Church Christ The Ortley, SD - Ortley Free Lutheran Church Free SD- Ortley Ortley, Reva, SD - Slim ButtesLutheran Church SD- Slim Reva, Pukwana, SD- Pukwana Free Lutheran Church Salem, SDLutheran - Church CenterFree Salem, Sioux Falls, Lutheran SD Church- Abiding Savior Free Sioux Falls, SD - Living Word Free Lutheran ChurchSioux Word Free Falls, SD- Living Sisseton, SD - Buffalo Lake Lutheran Church Lake Sisseton, SD- Buffalo Wallace, SD - Calvary Lutheran Church SD- Calvary Wallace, Sisseton, SD - New Hope Lutheran Sisseton, Free SD- New Waubay, SD- Egeland Lutheran Church Waubay, Viborg, Lutheran Church SD- Bethany Volin, Lutheran Church SD- Trondhjem Tripp, SD - First American Lutheran Church Tripp, SD- First American Webster, SD- Lutheran Church Tabor Webster, 235 14 73 84 52 10 19 12 24 14 122 # COMS 6 0 20 51 52 53 12 46 12 30 # MIDW 52 52 52 52 74 52 54 53 101 124 # WOR 4 6 5 1 0 2 0 2 5 1 FUN MA - 2 3 0 0 0 1 1 1 2 0 MA - MAR 0 0 3 0 0 0 0 0 4 0 MA - CONF 1 3 2 1 0 0 1 0 8 0 BAP MA - 6 2 4 1 0 3 1 5 7 0 SS - TEACH 8 0 8 0 25 18 30 40 25 15 SS - SS - ADULT 3 0 0 4 0 0 20 15 34 24 SS - SS - K12 70 95 43 30 10 20 77 116 124 117 ATT MEM - 4 98 40 35 15 262 124 108 CONF MEM - 4 65 42 15 102 592 133 143 223 BAP MEM - YR 2019 2015 2017 2019 2019 2019 2019 2019 2015 2019 2017 STAT Church Name & Location & Name Church Camarillo, CA - Good Shepherd CA Lutheran ChurchCamarillo, El Cajon, CA - Reformation Lutheran Church - ElReformation Cajon, CA Mesa, AZ - Calvary Free Lutheran Church Free - Calvary AZ Mesa, Fountain Hills, AZ - Joy Christian Community Church Fountain Christian Community - Joy Hills, AZ Honolulu, Gathering Beach - HI Waikiki - United Lutheran Church CA Manteca, Mesa, AZ - The Source Church- The AZ Mesa, Lutheran Church Evangelical - Triumph AZ Nogales, Oceanside, CA - Community Lutheran Church - Community CA Oceanside, Patterson, - OurLutheran Saviour's Church CA Lutheran Church - St. Ansgar's Salinas, CA 236 7 21 12 14 12 12 13 13 12 13 14 10 13 12 13 13 14 # COMS 5 0 6 2 5 0 7 2 44 10 39 47 44 50 10 45 40 # MIDW 50 72 50 52 52 51 52 49 50 52 52 50 50 52 52 52 53 # WOR 2 0 8 2 5 1 1 5 6 1 4 1 5 0 4 5 3 FUN MA - 0 0 0 0 3 1 0 0 3 0 0 0 0 3 0 0 0 MA - MAR 0 0 0 1 6 4 0 5 0 2 2 3 2 0 2 0 0 MA - CONF 4 2 0 0 3 2 0 2 6 1 3 1 1 2 5 0 0 BAP MA - 7 5 2 1 4 3 5 6 2 3 5 4 5 3 12 14 13 SS - TEACH 6 0 0 5 8 0 22 35 15 10 34 15 20 12 10 12 SS - SS - ADULT 2 5 2 2 8 2 25 13 15 50 72 35 28 18 45 15 15 SS - SS - K12 45 79 18 35 60 89 40 35 56 65 40 60 56 123 144 18.4 22.7 ATT MEM - 79 96 44 69 64 75 44 95 67 122 134 264 188 454 235 244 250 CONF MEM - 93 52 70 90 49 95 110 100 163 376 236 586 308 105 332 336 105 BAP MEM - YR 2019 2019 2019 2019 2019 2019 2019 2019 2019 2017 2017 2019 2019 2019 2017 2017 2017 STAT Church Name & Location & Name Church Brainerd, MN- Good Shepherd Lutheran Church Free Brandon, Lutheran MNChurch- Chippewa Clinton, Lutheran Church MN- Elim Lutheran Church Free Dalton, MN- Kvam Dalton, MN - Zion/Sarpsborg Lutheran Church Lutheran Church Free Falls, Fergus MN- Calvary Glenwood, MN - Glenwood, Scandia Lutheran Church Glyndon, MN - Maranatha Free Lutheran MNChurch- Maranatha Free Glyndon, Ortonville, MN- Abiding Faith Lutheran Church Free Sebeka, MN- Bethany Free Lutheran Blue Grass Spicer, MN - Green Lake Lutheran Church Lake Spicer, MN- Green Starbuck, MN - Minnewaska Lutheran Church Starbuck, MN- Minnewaska Upsala, MN - Word Of Life Free Lutheran Church Free Life Upsala, MN- Word Of Sunburg, MN - Sunburg Free Lutheran Church Lutheran Free Sunburg - MN Sunburg, Underwood, MN- Tordenskjold Lutheran Church Free Ulen, Lutheran MNChurch- Maranatha Free Ulen of Wadena, MN- Zion Free Lutheran Church 237 13 12 13 12 28 24 13 13 14 14 15 12 12 12 14 # COMS 7 8 1 45 40 12 34 28 28 38 48 12 45 35 # MIDW 51 52 52 45 52 52 57 46 39 39 52 52 52 52 54 # WOR 1 7 3 1 8 3 6 0 6 1 2 7 2 1 4 FUN MA - 1 2 0 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 2 1 MA - MAR 4 3 5 0 0 1 3 0 0 0 1 0 0 1 5 MA - CONF 0 4 0 3 1 2 6 0 3 7 1 0 8 13 BAP MA - 4 8 8 0 4 2 9 3 0 2 6 3 3 11 SS - TEACH 0 0 0 8 4 8 20 12 10 15 15 15 14 15 SS - SS - ADULT 0 5 0 2 30 14 40 15 16 15 15 20 10 57 SS - SS - K12 20 83 15 49 25 55 21 45 30 65 65 32 31 150 165 ATT MEM - 52 25 90 29 47 61 12 39 210 275 214 114 114 418 321 CONF MEM - 68 27 30 54 61 27 41 250 336 254 117 103 153 524 490 BAP MEM - YR 2017 2019 2019 2019 2019 2019 2019 2019 2019 2019 2019 2019 2019 2009 2017 2017 2007 STAT Tioga, ND - Zion ND Tioga, Lutheran Church Williston, ND - Emmanuel Free Lutheran Church Free Williston, - Emmanuel ND Taylor, ND - Taylor Lutheran Church - Taylor ND Taylor, Lutheran Church Creek - Beaver ND Tioga, Stanley, ND - Our Savior's Free Lutheran ChurchFree - Our ND Savior's Stanley, Stanley, ND - First English Lutheran Of Lostwood - First ND English Lutheran Of Stanley, New Leipzig, ND - Immanuel Lutheran Church - Immanuel ND Leipzig, New Mott, ND - Trinity Lutheran Church Mott, - Trinity ND Minot, Lutheran Church - Bethel Free ND Harvey, ND - Trinity Bethany Lutheran Church Bethany - Trinity ND Harvey, Golden Valley, ND - Golgotha Lutheran Church - Golgotha ND Golden Valley, Dodge, ND - St.Dodge, ND Paul Lutheran Church Dodge of Dickinson, - Our ND Lutheran Saviour's Church Culbertson, MT - Bethel Community Church Culbertson, - Bethel Community MT Brockton, - Faith Lutheran Church MT Free Beulah, - Prince Peace Lutheran Church ND Of Lutheran Church Free - Calvary ND Bismarck, Church Name & Location & Name Church 238 2019 AFLC Statistical Summary
Member Member Districts BAP CONF Central Tri-State District - 17 2196 1795 Eastern District - 13 3349 2706 Eastern North Dakota District - 25 3812 2285 Illinois District - 25 4835 3609 Lake Superior District - 8 792 636 Minneapolis District - 18 3353 2359 Nebraska Kansas Colorado District - 6 1157 846 North Central Minnesota District - 15 2307 1446 Northern Michigan District - 9 674 562 Northwestern Minnesota District - 15 1763 1475 Pacific Northwest District - 12 1325 1146 South Central District - 16 751 601 South Dakota District - 29 3796 3003 Southwestern District - 12 1319 686 W North Dakota Eastern Montana District - 17 2535 2021 West Central Minnesota District - 17 3206 2524
Church Total: 37,170 27,700
239 AFLC CONGREGATIONAL GIFTS FOR 2019 (does not include individual gifts or gifts for summer teams)
240 807.5 3804.9 2508.18 4778.68 1,140.57 5,100.00 3,956.45 4,101.00 3,000.00 18,875.40 24,772.16 15,291.99 19,688.57 $2,480.00 110,305.40 Grand Total 25 80 207 200 YTH 20.89 745.03 360.75 1,000.00 6,284.33 1,800.00 1,845.66 473 WM 83.25 266.4 513.31 778.68 6,455.91 9,375.05 1,819.56 3,800.00 4,605.16 1,436.45 3,000.00 2,916.50 35,523.27 VIS 88 7.7 PE 700 27.5 22.98 819.51 394.34 5,060.03 3,000.00 95 200 720 HM 83.25 69.56 266.4 435.31 564.50 2,480.91 1,193.06 1,000.00 8,614.62 15,722.61 GF 394.5 278.4 745.36 2,592.69 1,198.34 1,200.00 2,200.00 1,709.81 6,000.00 1,845.66 18,164.76 FLAPS 2,768.49 2,768.49 488 27.5 EVG 22.98 819.51 247.88 419.34 5,150.21 3,000.00 $125.00 58 FLS 48.46 185.6 321.24 868.94 1,728.45 8,517.75 3,000.00 2,307.06 600 200 30.38 90.66 108.5 FLBC 447.57 620.00 3,233.39 1,482.17 3,167.00 2,307.08 $827.20 13,113.95 Saint James, MN- Hosanna Lutheran Free Saint James, Zumbrota, MN - Our Saviour's Lutheran Radcliffe, IA - Salem Lutheran Church - Salem IA Radcliffe, Onalaska, WI - Christ Lord Is Lutheran Church WI Onalaska, Kenyon, MN - Hauge Lutheran Church MN- Hauge Kenyon, Lutheran Free Life Mankato, MN- Word Of Kasson, MN- Mt. Sion Lutheran Church Lutheran Church MN- Emmanuel Kenyon, Dexter, MN- ZionDexter, Lutheran Church Lutheran Ev - Holmes IA Grove, Eagle Ellendale,- First MNChurch Lutheran Church Name & Location & Name Church Central Tri State Tri Central Lutheran Boscobel, - Trinity WI Cannon Falls, MN - Our Lutheran Saviour's Ev. Lutheran Harvest The - Lord Of Fairbank, IA Frost, MN Lutheran- Church Dell - St. Paul's IA Lutheran Church Jewell, Garden City, IA - Stavanger Free Lutheran Free - Stavanger IA City, Garden 241 900 400 1,220.00 1,500.00 1,190.00 1,054.00 3,839.34 6,521.50 9,390.00 17,348.00 84,173.00 127,535.84 Grand Total 45 20 400 300 YTH 176.4 1,279.78 7,171.18 4,950.00 180 750 527 66.6 WM 149.85 6,666.00 2,559.56 1,087.37 2,389.00 47,221.38 32,846.00 VIS 22 PE 736 330 49.5 194.04 5,907.54 4,576.00 527 999 HM 66.6 439.85 1,220.00 1,608.00 5,775.00 1,087.37 11,722.82 GF 750 69.6 156.6 3,574.00 3,044.00 4,500.00 2,607.52 14,701.72 FLAPS 22 700 330 49.5 EVG 194.04 2,750.00 4,045.54 696 46.4 FLS 104.4 409.23 1,309.00 14,663.00 17,228.03 720 86.8 195.3 FLBC 765.53 1,302.00 2,355.00 14,113.00 19,537.63 Hagerstown, MD - St. Paul's Evangelical Free Lutheran MDChurch- St.Free Paul'sHagerstown, Evangelical Landisburg, PA - Mt. Zion Lutheran Church Cranberry Township, PA - St. John's of Lovi Evangelical PA Township, - St. John'sLovi of Cranberry Church MD- Christ Community Hagerstown, Loysville, PA - Tressler Memorial Free Lutheran Church Free Memorial PA - Tressler Loysville, Millerstown, Lutheran Church PA - St. Matthew Canal Winchester, OH - Peace Free Lutheran Church Newark, OH - St. OH John'sLutheran Church Newark, Lutheran Church Reading, PA - Alsace Trenton, MI - Stronghold Lutheran Church Boyertown, PA - Living Faith Lutheran Church PA - Living Boyertown, Canfield, OH - Paradise OH Canfield, Lutheran Church Bethel Park, PA - Ruthfred Lutheran Church Church Name & Location & Name Church Eastern Eastern 242 250 500 3,270.84 4,810.00 3,840.00 8,350.00 6,000.00 8,756.00 2,905.00 1,050.00 4,453.60 1,607.00 9,750.00 3,270.00 2,418.70 10,350.00 33,270.19 32,743.00 54,521.00 11,900.96 29,101.00 233,117.29 Grand Total 50 250 563 510 YTH 163.54 964.89 297.15 1,750.00 1,000.00 1,922.30 3,635.95 1,022.50 1,075.00 1,320.05 14,524.38 290 356 500 850 WM 216.5 544.59 626.64 5,950.00 1,140.00 1,000.00 1,303.18 9,596.69 1,237.86 5,420.85 1,896.63 6,221.68 4,395.78 17,089.51 58,635.91 700 VIS 1,200.00 2,000.00 17,500.00 21,400.00 55 PE 250 454 179.9 808.8 940.93 426.87 1,000.00 3,859.59 1,536.67 1,193.75 1,852.08 12,557.60 387 356 250 500 HM 166.5 544.59 761.64 1,100.00 1,000.00 1,150.00 2,396.18 3,216.33 7,989.51 1,607.87 5,751.85 1,136.63 1,000.00 4,395.78 33,709.88 GF 174 572 575 130 509.12 569.13 207.84 1,500.00 1,000.00 1,000.00 4,824.49 3,034.07 4,861.30 1,493.49 2,418.70 1,000.00 1,364.28 4,593.69 29,827.11 268 370 765 FLAPS 1,403.00 55 223 250 320 210 EVG 179.9 253.8 160.93 326.87 873.75 1,200.00 1,000.00 1,536.67 1,752.08 8,342.00 600 116 725 FLS 888.42 379.42 698.56 5,146.10 2,289.39 6,714.93 1,237.87 1,074.00 1,000.00 3,062.52 1,290.00 25,222.20 201 217 500 790 FLBC 634.94 709.77 889.72 5,662.10 1,289.63 7,562.78 1,000.00 1,059.25 5,729.02 1,250.00 27,495.21 Park River, ND - Victory Free Lutheran Church Free - Victory Park ND River, Valley City, ND Free - Grace Lutheran Church Buxton, ND - Ny Stavanger Free Lutheran Church Free Stavanger Buxton, - Ny ND Fargo, ND - St.Fargo, ND Paul's Lutheran ChurchFree Larimore, ND - Living Faith Lutheran Church Free - Living ND Larimore, Prairie Lutheran Church Free - West Leonard, ND Lutheran Church - Middle ND Manvel, Grove Lutheran Church Luther Valley McVille, - New ND Portland, Lutheran Church Free - Valley ND Lutheran Church Bergen - Trinity ND Starkweather, Valley City, ND - Zion ND Tsp Lutheran Church City, Green Valley Churchs Ferry, ND - North ND Churchs Prairie Lutheran Ferry, Free - Christ Lutheran ND Church Free Lake, Devils Edinburg, ND - Grace Free Lutheran Church Free Edinburg, - Grace ND Word Lutheran Church - Living ND Edmore, Lutheran Church Egeland, - Lakeview ND Enderlin, Church Enderlin of - Hope ND AFLC Lutheran Church Free - Trinity ND Minnewaukan, Grafton, ND - Bethel Free Lutheran Church - Bethel Free ND Grafton, Northwood, - Lutheran Ebenezer Church ND Hampden, ND - Zoar ND Lutheran ChurchHampden, Hope Lutheran Church Free - New ND Jamestown, Binford, ND - Bethany Lutheran Church Binford, - Bethany ND Abercrombie, ND - Bethany Free Lutheran Church Free - Bethany ND Abercrombie, Grand Forks, ND - Trinity Free Lutheran Church Free Forks,- Trinity ND Grand Eastern North Dakota North Eastern Church Name & Location & Name Church 243 252 555 425 350 450 7,238.00 5,060.00 5,660.56 7,212.00 1,800.00 3,350.00 7,350.00 1,200.00 3,220.00 15,907.20 33,778.00 18,507.57 10,165.00 95,535.40 218,015.73 Grand Total 10 50 50 4.5 696 250 300 YTH 206.5 610.38 1,241.15 2,016.00 3,659.60 9,094.13 50 555 240 135 100 220 WM 832.5 717.49 3,850.00 8,332.56 7,666.44 1,787.00 3,700.00 11,653.30 20,523.07 60,362.36 600 300 VIS 32,620.00 32,920.00 PE 275 507 300 100 4.95 671.42 418.65 1,226.17 9,604.82 13,108.00 10 50 252 120 300 100 HM 2,482.49 2,032.56 3,696.44 2,932.50 2,503.00 5,833.77 12,698.30 33,011.10 40 50 GF 870 600 15.65 859.48 2,124.11 1,800.00 1,608.31 2,710.00 1,000.00 5,711.18 1,200.00 3,000.00 21,588.73 FLAPS 50 50 275 100 200 4.95 EVG 671.42 467.51 1,875.00 1,187.17 3,256.57 6,262.62 10 580 568 700 100 FLS 269.88 5,660.56 1,416.08 1,660.44 1,901.55 7,450.32 20,316.80 50 217 280 120 950 FLBC 169.53 2,649.04 2,322.30 1,197.00 2,262.05 1,784.00 6,876.07 18,877.00 Whitestown, IN - St. Mark's Lutheran Church Lutheran Mark's - St. IN Whitestown, Ottawa, IL - Freedom Lutheran Church Ottawa, Lutheran IL - Freedom Church IL Lutheran River - Fox Sheridan, Newark, IL - Lisbon Bethlehem Ev Lutheran Church Ev Lutheran IL Bethlehem Newark, - Lisbon Church ILLutheran Newark, - Newark Morris, IL - Bethlehem Lutheran Church Lutheran ILMorris, - Bethlehem Church Lutheran IL Evangelical Morris, - Grace Church IL Lutheran Newark, - Helmar Montgomery, IL - St. Olaf Lutheran Church IL Olaf Montgomery, - St. Lutheran Mineral Point, WI - Faith Lutheran of Mineral Point of Mineral Lutheran Point, WI - Faith Mineral Metropolis, IL - St. Stephen's Lutheran Church Lutheran IL Stephen's - St. Metropolis, Of Schwer IL Lutheran Milford, John's - St. Wheatland, IA - Christian Free Lutheran Church Lutheran Free - Christian IA Wheatland, Leland, IL - St. Petrie Lutheran Church Lutheran IL Petrie Leland, - St. Lincoln, IL - Good Shepherd Lutheran Church Church Lutheran IL Peter's - St. Melvin, Church Lutheran IL - Faith Metropolis, Indianapolis, IN - St. Mark's Free Lutheran Church Lutheran Free Mark's - St. IN Indianapolis, Church Lutheran Free WI - Trinity Janesville, Gifford, IL - St. Paul's Evangelical Lutheran Church Lutheran IL Evangelical Paul's Gifford, - St. Dekalb, IL - Grace Free Lutheran Church Lutheran IL Free - Grace Dekalb, Brodhead, WI - Bethany Lutheran Church Lutheran WI - Bethany Brodhead, Bensenville, IL - Grace Lutheran Church IL Lutheran - Grace Bensenville, Ashkum, IL - Zion Lutheran Church IL Lutheran - Zion Ashkum, Illinois Argyle, WI -Cornerstone Lutheran Church Lutheran WI -Cornerstone Argyle, Church Name & Location & Name Church 244 678 670.68 3,912.32 1,750.00 1,610.15 4,354.00 42,439.80 29,069.50 Grand Total 300 YTH 80.52 29,450.02 29,069.50 750 WM 268.11 305.84 1,906.16 9,578.22 3,999.96 2,053.00 459 VIS 8,659.00 8,200.00 PE 100 88.57 521.9 333.33 100 HM 268.11 364.84 1,000.00 5,732.91 3,999.96 GF 442 280.07 1,906.16 6,395.06 3,666.83 FLAPS EVG 88.57 1,088.57 1,000.00 339 FLS 186.8 4,525.76 3,999.96 339 349.4 FLBC 5,557.86 4,869.46 Superior, WI - Our Redeemer's Free Lutheran Free Superior, - Our Redeemer's WI Lutheran MN- Tamarack, Tamarack Church Church Name & Location & Name Church Mason, WI - Our Savior's Free Lutheran ChurchFree Mason,- Our Savior's WI Lake Superior Lake Cloquet, MN- St. Paul'sLutheran Church Duluth, Lutheran Church MN- Augustana Duluth, MN- St. John's Lutheran ChurchFree Finlayson, MN- St. John'sLutheran Church 245 550 144 361.1 1,950.00 7,260.00 2,000.00 5,065.00 16,333.74 16,191.61 61,867.00 21,537.17 19,593.00 18,580.00 56,503.33 14,893.12 13,417.34 256,246.41 Grand Total 210 100 YTH 817.15 394.99 2,076.26 1,217.94 1,125.00 1,200.00 3,665.00 1,738.54 12,544.88 650 333 144 100 WM 7,124.78 6,147.94 3,293.30 2,150.00 7,500.00 3,925.10 8,308.50 5,606.77 38,013.28 10,562.17 22,227.93 116,086.77 755 VIS 4,172.94 1,217.94 2,200.00 75 PE 211 110 898.9 434.51 7,695.22 1,597.92 1,217.94 1,237.56 1,912.39 75 100 333 100 HM 233.3 2,396.30 1,517.94 6,246.28 1,425.00 1,190.00 3,754.10 5,789.33 1,315.35 1,214.57 25,690.17 GF 600 348 350 450 434.8 361.1 1,310.39 1,218.09 4,014.76 7,000.00 5,578.00 2,843.63 6,290.10 1,374.58 32,173.45 FLAPS 2,450.00 2,450.00 40 211 110 EVG 898.9 434.51 1,217.94 2,737.56 6,498.39 12,148.30 600 232 175 FLS 223.2 798.38 916.39 1,217.94 2,810.00 1,245.00 1,895.80 4,153.40 4,762.66 19,029.77 100 434 243.4 FLBC 1,029.71 1,217.94 4,927.56 1,415.00 3,546.42 7,893.25 1,714.29 1,833.34 24,354.91 Church Name & Location & Name Church Amery, WI - Amery Free Lutheran Church Free - Amery WI Amery, MN- Solid Lutheran ChurchAnoka, Free Rock Ringebu Lutheran Free - Barronett,Timberland WI Lutheran Church Bloomington, MN - Emmaus Cokato, MN- Good Shepherd Lutheran Church Free - Faith Lutheran WI Church Running of Colfax, Valley Minneapolis Word Lutheran Church MN- Living Eagan, MN - Minnesota Lutheran Free Valley Lakeville, Lutheran Church Free MN- Grace MapleGrove, Minneapolis, MN- Faith Lutheran Church Free Minneapolis, MN- Hope Lutheran Church Mora, Vine MN- True Lutheran Church Lutheran Church Plymouth, MN- Vision Glory Of Hope Church MN- Living Rogers, Shakopee, MN- Faith Lutheran Church Lutheran Church Glory Shakopee, MN- Of King Stacy, MNLutheran - Church Sunnyside Free Stacy, - Christ Wilson,the WI Lutheran King Church 246 8,455.00 3,402.39 9,657.87 1,500.00 23,018.49 62,103.80 16,070.05 Grand Total YTH 295.27 911.06 586.39 1,000.00 2,792.72 WM 979.34 2,455.00 5,231.21 1,083.51 1,913.16 1,500.00 13,162.22 VIS PE 295.27 645.02 1,000.00 1,002.17 2,942.46 HM 979.35 525.34 1,000.00 5,633.80 2,442.65 10,581.14 GF 288.94 1,000.00 3,170.45 3,818.51 6,006.07 14,283.97 FLAPS 2,796.01 1,714.00 1,082.01 60 EVG 645.02 1,002.17 1,707.19 FLS 295.26 1,000.00 2,113.64 1,360.40 4,769.30 FLBC 268.96 900.94 1,000.00 3,953.99 2,944.90 9,068.79 Saint Francis, KS - Peace Lutheran Church Loveland, CO - Hope CO Lutheran ChurchLoveland, Of Laurel, NE - UnitedLaurel, Lutheran Church Deshler, NE Deshler, - Abiding Word Lutheran Church Nebraska/Kansas/Colorado Fairbury, NE - FaithFairbury, Lutheran Church Church Name & Location & Name Church - CO MissionSwink, Lutheran Church 247 400 250.00 3,000.00 2,384.00 2,000.00 4,759.44 8,149.20 3,143.65 8,417.34 4,500.00 6,683.50 1,784.00 55,516.13 10,045.00 Grand Total 20 60 150 120 300 265 12.5 YTH 558.4 236.25 1,722.15 682 625 365 66.6 WM 1500 499.5 41.63 1,960.80 1,604.40 4,479.37 2,199.00 14,023.30 200 VIS 1,758.50 1,558.50 66 22 PE 165 330 165 13.75 259.86 1,021.61 515 600 750 430 HM 66.6 499.5 41.63 786.64 1,998.24 2,754.40 2,344.00 10,786.01 GF 522 500 750 69.6 208.8 43.49 822.09 1,200.00 1,159.00 3,023.65 1,044.00 1,975.00 11,317.63 FLAPS 66 22 165 330 300 EVG 13.75 259.86 1,156.61 29 348 750 696 565 46.4 FLS 593.5 139.2 548.05 2,712.00 6,427.15 20 651 750 86.8 593.5 260.4 54.25 FLBC 1,025.22 7,303.17 2,802.00 1,060.00 Winger, MN - Dovre Free Lutheran Church Free MN- Dovre Winger, Bagley, MN - Grace Free Lutheran Church Free MN- Grace Bagley, Shevlin, MN- Lutheran Landstad Church Bagley, MN - Alida Lutheran Church MN- Alida Bagley, Bagley, MN - Rice Lutheran Church MN- Rice Bagley, MN- Resurrection Lutheran Church Free Beltrami, Lutheran Church Free MN- Bethany Bemidji, Lutheran Church Free MN- Trinity Bemidji, MN- FaithBlackduck, Lutheran Church North Central Minnesota Central North MN- Northome, Hope Lutheran Church Church Name & Location & Name Church Fosston, MN - Calvary Free Lutheran Church Free Fosston, MN- Calvary Lutheran McIntosh, Church Free MN- Mt. Carmel Erskine, MN- Saron Lutheran (Closed) McIntosh, Lutheran Church MN- Trinity Mentor, MN - Maple Bay Free Lutheran Church Free Mentor, MN- MapleBay Mizpah, MN- Lutheran Bethesda Church 248 2,000.00 1,800.00 8,002.00 1,470.00 1,250.00 2,440.00 1,005.00 30,946.00 20,796.29 69,709.29 Grand Total 100 122 73.5 YTH 376.1 319.04 990.64 300 333 755 WM 244.77 406.26 6,015.45 1,732.42 13,906.00 23,692.90 250 VIS 3,000.00 3,250.00 PE 110 80.86 134.2 413.73 1,000.00 1,738.79 300 333 HM 244.77 406.26 1,252.42 1,000.00 3,615.45 7,151.90 GF 600 348 255.72 424.56 1,308.77 3,615.45 10,509.00 17,061.50 FLAPS 110 EVG 80.86 134.2 413.73 1,581.00 2,319.79 300 232 FLS 872.55 170.52 283.04 3,615.45 5,473.56 300 434 950 319 250 FLBC 529.48 3,615.45 1,632.28 8,030.21 Shingleton, MI - Christ Lutheran Church Pelkie, MI - Grace Free Lutheran Church Free Pelkie, MI - Grace Ontonagon, MI - Redeemer Free Lutheran Church Free Ontonagon, MI - Redeemer Escanaba, MI - Escanaba Free Lutheran Church Felch, MI - Abiding Word Lutheran Church MI - St.Peter LutheranChurch Hawks, Lutheran MI - Hope Evangelical Ishpeming, Free Chassell, MI Lutheran ChurchChassell, - Maranatha Free Eben Junction, MI - Calvary Free Lutheran Eben Church Free Junction, MI - Calvary Northern Michigan Northern Church Name & Location & Name Church 249 968 150 250 1,580.00 2,357.00 6,159.98 1,600.00 2,744.15 3,225.00 5,576.00 6,000.00 27,951.00 80,672.37 22,111.24 Grand Total 65 20 119 42.5 6.25 YTH 3,309.86 3,057.11 85 100 WM 634.6 621.53 1,487.00 1,714.15 1,870.81 3,426.00 3,000.00 3,057.11 19,259.75 35,255.95 VIS 5,668.58 2,000.00 3,668.58 60 22 PE 555 346.75 606.88 3,539.00 8,186.74 3,057.11 80 686 HM 66.6 70.81 141.53 4,202.05 3,157.11 GF 475 69.6 416.5 621.74 2,147.89 1,120.00 4,850.73 FLAPS 22 45 119 6.88 EVG 46.75 239.63 60 435 150 150 750 250 46.4 14.5 FLS 1,145.75 2,203.59 1,000.00 3,057.11 9,262.35 65 435 750 86.8 27.13 FLBC 609.44 2,666.00 2,000.00 3,057.11 9,696.48 Thief River Falls, MN- OurLutheran Church Saviour's River Thief Badger, MN- OilandBadger, Lutheran Church Argyle, MN - Alma Lutheran Church MN- Alma Argyle, MN - Our Lutheran ChurchSavior's Argyle, Lutheran Church Creek MN- Badger Badger, East Grand Forks, MN - Christ The King Free Lutheran Forks, MN Free - King Grand ChristEast The Thief River Falls, MN - Abundant Life Church Falls, MN- Abundant River Life Thief Salol, MN- Spruce Lutheran Church Free Strandquist, Lutheran Church MNFree - Hegland Newfolden, MN - Westaker Free Lutheran Church Free MN- Westaker Newfolden, Salol, MN- Norland Lutheran Church Free Greenbush, MN- United Lutheran Church Free Church Name & Location & Name Church Goodridge, MNChurch- Reiner Lutheran Free Roseau, Lutheran Church MN- Free Roseau of Roseau, Lutheran Church MN- Free Rose Northwestern MN Northwestern 250 4,211.73 6,537.62 1,200.00 4,045.00 9,225.25 2,200.00 6,081.03 8,511.73 48,329.50 327,476.05 130,721.96 106,412.23 Grand Total 60 113 200 975 YTH 98.89 182.56 6,862.23 3,603.33 1,629.45 975 WM 199.8 1,289.72 2,687.15 1,200.00 3,037.89 2,899.01 4,045.00 43,406.26 42,937.25 15,531.15 118,208.23 275 100 VIS 1,425.25 76,800.25 75,000.00 66 PE 975 100 124.3 108.77 200.79 7,372.61 3,603.33 2,194.42 975 HM 199.8 539.71 607.89 2,329.26 2,206.36 5,069.06 56,471.96 44,544.88 GF 975 200 208.8 344.03 635.35 1,268.12 2,806.36 17,247.60 10,809.94 FLAPS 3,603.33 3,603.33 66 975 200 600 EVG 124.3 108.77 200.79 5,878.19 3,603.33 975 100 FLS 229.4 139.2 262.16 423.51 1,300.74 14,239.95 10,809.94 975 100 260.4 FLBC 490.42 792.25 3,850.47 7,206.63 1,429.12 5,687.41 20,791.70 Dillon, MT - Our Savior's Lutheran Church Lutheran MTDillon, Savior's Our - Spencer Lutheran Creek - OR Eugene, Brookings, OR - Trinity Lutheran Church Lutheran Trinity - Brookings, OR Church Name & LocationChurch Name Pacific Northwest Free Lutheran Atonement - WA Arlington, Church Lutheran Bethany - OR Astoria, Everett, WA - Calvary Lutheran Church Lutheran Calvary - Everett, WA Church Lutheran Triumph Ferndale, - WA Church Kalispell, MT Free Lutheran Faith - Free Lutheran Kalispell, MT Stillwater - Lutheran Redeemer Our - WA Kirkland, Church Lutheran Elim - WA Stevens, Lake Lutheran Lord Life of - Vernon, WA Mount 251 400 699 6,698.33 8,598.00 4,265.00 5,100.00 2,479.00 1,000.00 1,240.00 2,258.00 5,747.30 2,763.33 41,247.96 Grand Total 40 180 375 YTH 249.55 963.87 1,808.42 590 622 WM 133.2 273.42 4,898.33 1,248.72 2,400.00 1,855.05 1,175.68 13,196.40 VIS 44 PE 450 412.56 202.91 183.53 1,293.00 450 300 HM 133.2 300.42 186.73 1,248.72 1,175.65 3,794.72 GF 400 360 339.2 311.96 1,304.88 2,400.00 1,857.00 1,046.48 8,019.52 FLAPS 44 180 EVG 412.56 251.91 102.49 990.96 180 870 92.8 FLS 363.63 168.14 4,111.00 5,785.57 109 154 412 173.6 304.2 FLBC 2,725.56 1,240.00 1,241.01 6,359.37 Tomball, TX - Crown Of Life Lutheran Church Life Of - TX Crown Tomball, - TX Faith Lutheran ChurchWelasco, Springfield, MO - Immanuel Lutheran Church Springfield, MO- Immanuel Stover, MO- Christ Lutheran Church Silverhill, AL - Zion Lutheran ChurchSilverhill, AL Saint Louis, MO - Gloria Dei Lutheran Church Lutheran Dei Saint Louis, - Gloria MO Pleasanton, TX - Good Shepherd Lutheran Church Lutheran Shepherd Good - TX Pleasanton, Marksville, LA - St. Paul'sLutheran Church LA Marksville, - First OK Lutheran Church City, Oklahoma Kopperl, Truth Lutheran Church - TX Word Of Humboldt, TN - Ebenezer Free Lutheran Church- Free Ebenezer Humboldt, TN El Campo, TX - TX FaithEl Campo, Lutheran Church Bastrop, - TX CrossRoadsChristian Fellowship Lutheran Fellowship - TX Free Brownsville, San Juan, PR - Resurrection Lutheran Durant, - Faith OK Lutheran Church South Central Church Name & Location & Name Church 252 250 845 500 190.3 3,017.30 7,982.00 3,011.00 5,475.00 6,783.00 1,826.73 1,000.00 3,544.20 6,852.38 3,531.82 6,200.42 3,798.92 9,851.58 1,410.00 11,000.00 15,104.29 23,409.00 14,760.00 29,231.34 12,790.10 14,904.00 17,857.11 143,162.55 348,288.04 Grand Total 25 290 115 12.5 4.76 YTH 174.5 81.08 127.05 603.79 260.13 307.05 176.59 492.58 2,240.00 3,541.05 22,535.41 30,986.49 600 595 940 600 WM 965.7 83.25 41.63 15.84 423.08 477.81 588.05 269.98 149.95 5,351.10 1,197.30 6,825.34 4,539.21 1,658.86 3,213.54 1,640.29 1,780.00 12,311.80 14,971.00 59,238.73 500 528 VIS 5,000.00 6,028.00 PE 145 27.5 5.23 89.18 13.75 416.5 191.99 139.76 664.17 391.51 337.78 194.25 541.84 2,400.00 2,553.00 1,519.00 5,586.30 15,216.76 595 500 235 HM 83.25 581.1 965.7 41.63 15.84 423.08 269.98 480.71 588.05 292.69 149.95 8,088.00 1,197.30 2,172.00 2,010.59 1,022.48 1,640.29 5,724.00 3,774.95 30,851.59 87 GF 595 43.49 16.56 152.2 442.11 282.16 542.52 614.54 7,761.86 2,417.30 2,107.13 5,587.40 5,029.00 1,000.00 3,009.20 2,101.17 1,068.46 6,200.42 2,348.00 1,714.17 6,000.00 12,790.10 61,909.79 FLAPS 2,000.00 2,000.00 319 350 290 550 27.5 5.23 EVG 89.18 41.81 13.75 116.5 191.99 609.76 664.17 412.78 194.25 541.84 7,511.80 6,089.00 3,095.00 21,113.56 58 29 100 FLS 188.1 672.8 11.04 144.8 404.84 345.01 294.76 712.37 409.69 2,115.00 1,425.00 1,400.79 1,142.77 3,804.81 45,070.84 58,329.62 595 200 476.7 551.4 108.5 115.8 766.4 54.25 165.1 FLBC 757.35 557.07 292.69 1,258.60 2,208.00 1,545.00 2,620.40 1,332.60 2,137.80 1,300.00 45,570.84 62,613.50 Salem, SDLutheran - Church CenterFree Salem, Sioux Falls, Lutheran SD- Abiding Savior Free Pukwana, SD- Pukwana Free Lutheran Church ButtesLutheran Church SD- Slim Reva, Centerville, SD - Immanuel Free Lutheran Free - Immanuel SD Centerville, Lutheran Church SD- St.Chamberlain, Olaf Madison, SD - Good Shepherd Free Lutheran Lutheran Free Shepherd Good - SD Madison, Mitchell, Free SD Grace Lutheran- Amazing Sioux Falls, SD - Living Word Free Lutheran Sioux Word Free Falls, SD- Living Ortley, SD - Ortley Free Lutheran Church Free SD- Ortley Ortley, Lutheran Church Lake Sisseton, SD- Buffalo Hope Lutheran Sisseton, Free SD- New Lutheran Church Tripp, SD- First American Viborg, Lutheran Church SD- Bethany Pipestone, MNLutheran - King Christ The Volin, Lutheran Church SD- Trondhjem Wallace, SD - Calvary Lutheran Church SD- Calvary Wallace, SD- Egeland Lutheran Church Waubay, Canton, SD - Redeemer Free Lutheran Church Free Canton, SD- Redeemer SD- HopeDelmont, Lutheran Church Eagle Butte, SD - Emmanuel Free Lutheran Free Butte, Eagle SD - Emmanuel Faith, SD- Bethel Lutheran Church Freeman, SD - Salem Free Lutheran Church Free SD- Salem Freeman, Beresford, SD - Skrefsrud Lutheran Church SD- Skrefsrud Beresford, SD- Shiloh Lutheran Church Hawk, Free Black Bruce, SD - Grace Lutheran Church Bruce, SD- Grace Webster, SD- Lutheran Church Tabor Webster, Armour, SD- St. PeterArmour, Lutheran Church Arlington, SD - Calvary Free Lutheran Church Free Arlington, SD- Calvary South Dakota Church Name & Location & Name Church 253 200 3,148.66 5,100.00 4,250.00 3,800.00 3,376.85 6,250.00 11,600.00 23,741.22 61,446.73 Grand Total 580 300 YTH 69.01 162.5 1,111.51 421 WM 266.4 682.97 1,599.00 2,900.00 1,228.21 2,541.19 9,638.77 VIS 1,400.00 2,000.00 3,400.00 88 PE 330 75.89 178.75 1,039.60 1,712.24 999 900 200 HM 744.8 816.4 1,228.21 1,541.19 23,320.22 29,749.82 GF 278.4 240.12 565.37 1,044.00 5,100.00 7,227.89 FLAPS 88 330 EVG 75.89 215.9 178.75 888.54 377 FLS 385.6 160.07 3,696.00 4,618.67 347.2 FLBC 299.45 705.25 465.39 1,302.00 3,119.29 Patterson, - OurLutheran Saviour's Church CA Lutheran Church - St. Ansgar's Salinas, CA El Cajon, CA - Reformation Lutheran Church - ElReformation Cajon, CA Church Fountain Christian Community - Joy Hills, AZ Honolulu, Gathering Beach - HI Waikiki - United Lutheran Church CA Manteca, Lutheran Church Free - Calvary AZ Mesa, Source Church- The AZ Mesa, Montebello, Crown Cross & Lutheran Church Evangelical - Triumph AZ Nogales, Lutheran Church - Community CA Oceanside, Camarillo, CA - Good Shepherd CA Lutheran ChurchCamarillo, Church Name & Location & Name Church Southwestern 254 8,946.35 6,170.00 6,243.08 2,206.28 2,719.30 6,538.20 1,948.27 5,304.00 1,450.00 1,341.00 2,780.00 16,331.15 13,499.19 43,551.38 45,780.40 318,293.60 153,485.00 Grand Total 55 80 225 YTH 145.2 256.03 1,175.17 1,798.99 2,159.20 5,205.00 11,099.59 600 WM 256.23 464.32 3,770.00 4,178.35 6,200.00 4,393.24 1,200.00 1,790.00 2,883.52 1,450.00 1,241.00 10,787.51 13,407.15 50,338.00 102,959.32 600 VIS 2,087.00 2,687.00 PE 60.5 281.64 159.72 1,978.86 1,302.77 1,599.20 9,410.00 14,792.69 60 400 HM 852.59 183.15 166.96 483.52 5,990.57 1,345.39 10,876.93 41,582.11 21,223.00 40 GF 675 800 890.95 505.29 2,400.00 2,719.30 5,261.40 6,260.44 1,272.72 5,338.20 4,797.57 10,131.15 60,315.02 19,223.00 FLAPS 225 60.5 EVG 281.64 159.72 1,978.86 1,013.82 2,599.20 8,009.00 14,327.74 225 400 FLS 127.6 593.99 336.86 4,173.62 1,172.57 4,797.57 23,641.21 11,814.00 225 500 238.7 FLBC 158.27 630.17 1,611.16 8,495.53 1,223.51 5,543.58 46,888.92 28,263.00 Wadena, MN- Zion Free Lutheran Church Underwood, MN- Tordenskjold Lutheran Church Free Lutheran Church Free Life Upsala, MN- Word Of Sunburg, MN - Sunburg Free Lutheran Church Lutheran Free Sunburg - MN Sunburg, Ulen, Lutheran MNChurch- Maranatha Free Ulen of Sebeka, MN- Bethany Free Lutheran Blue Grass Spicer, MN - Green Lake Lutheran Church Lake Spicer, MN- Green Lutheran Church Starbuck, MN- Minnewaska Glyndon, MN - Maranatha Free Lutheran MNChurch- Maranatha Free Glyndon, Ortonville, MN- Abiding Faith Lutheran Church Free Dalton, MN - Zion/Sarpsborg Lutheran Church Lutheran Church Free Falls, Fergus MN- Calvary MN - Glenwood, Scandia Lutheran Church West Central Minnesota Central West Brainerd, MN- Good Shepherd Lutheran Church Free Lutheran Church Free Dalton, MN- Kvam Clinton, Lutheran Church MN- Elim Church Name & Location & Name Church Brandon, Lutheran MNChurch- Chippewa 255 1,340.00 4,200.00 1,250.00 8,333.32 7,822.50 5,610.00 34,220.81 17,385.94 10,545.01 10,075.02 92,675.00 20,158.54 31,276.26 244,892.40 Grand Total 500 425 528 YTH 302.3 518.75 2,835.32 4,166.66 2,206.10 1,453.81 12,935.94 65 670 500 734 WM 833.33 3,161.00 1,700.00 1,897.44 1,635.30 1,895.08 9,746.30 6,041.20 42,539.46 13,660.81 600 VIS 26,704.00 26,104.00 PE 500 467 570.62 332.52 2,373.60 1,599.19 16,628.66 10,785.73 670 650 500 HM 833.33 4,971.22 1,727.44 1,415.30 1,895.08 4,348.00 7,346.30 4,841.20 29,197.87 GF 500 500 2,515.46 1,805.26 1,478.90 1,051.86 7,677.21 5,059.30 40,681.53 20,093.54 FLAPS 1,000.00 1,000.00 EVG 332.52 570.62 9,713.78 2,361.70 1,823.02 3,026.73 1,599.19 986 250 FLS 701.27 2,364.85 1,203.51 1,250.00 3,372.85 20,290.64 10,162.16 250 250 FLBC 2,137.85 2,251.37 1,311.87 1,844.50 1,250.00 7,309.52 45,200.52 12,974.94 15,620.47 Beulah, - Prince Peace Lutheran Church ND Of Bismarck, ND - Calvary Free Lutheran Church Free - Calvary ND Bismarck, Brockton, - Faith Lutheran Church MT Free Church Culbertson, - Bethel Community MT Lutheran Church Mott, - Trinity ND Western North Dakota/Eastern Montana Dakota/Eastern North Western Dickinson, - Our ND Lutheran Saviour's Church - St.Dodge, ND Paul Lutheran Church Dodge of Lutheran Church - Golgotha ND Golden Valley, Lutheran Church Bethany - Trinity ND Harvey, Minot, Lutheran Church - Bethel Free ND Lutheran Church - Immanuel ND Leipzig, New Lostwood - First ND English Lutheran Of Stanley, Lutheran ChurchFree - Our ND Savior's Stanley, Lutheran Church - Taylor ND Taylor, Lutheran Church Creek - Beaver ND Tioga, - Zion ND Tioga, Lutheran Church Williston, ND - Emmanuel Free Lutheran Church Free Williston, - Emmanuel ND Church Name & Location & Name Church 256 AFLC OFFICERS AND COMMITTEES
257 OFFICERS OF THE AFLC
PRESIDENT Rev. Lyndon Korhonen Plymouth, MN (C) (763) 233-1473 [email protected] VICE PRESIDEN Rev. Terry Olson Grafton, ND (C) (701) 520-4872 [email protected] SECRETARY Rev. Micah Hjermstad West Fargo, ND (C) (701) 388-8218 [email protected] ASSISTANT TO THE PRESIDENT Rev. Gary Jorgenson Ramsey, MN (C) (218) 839-5858 [email protected] ...... DIRECTOR OF DEVELOPMENT Rev. Tonnes Pollestad Andover, MN (C) (763) 370-0032 [email protected] ...... THE LUTHERAN AMBASSADOR EDITOR Rev. Robert L. Lee Plymouth, MN (H) (763) 535-6645 [email protected] THE LUTHERAN AMBASSADOR MANAGING EDITOR Miss Ruth Nina Gunderson Plymouth, MN (W) (763) 545-5631 [email protected]
258 CO-ORDINATING COMMITTEE
Rev. Timothy Johnson Term: 2021 Pipestone, MN | [email protected] (W) (507) 825-5958 (C) (507) 215-1478
CHAIR Dr. Daniel Mundfrom Term: 2021 Greeley, CO | [email protected] (W) (859) 622-1931 (C) (970) 302-7997
Mr. Ron Strand Term: 2022 Wahpeton, ND | [email protected] (C) (218) 790-5536
Dr. Lyle Westrom Term: 2022 Crookston, MN | [email protected] (W) (218) 281-8110 (C) (218) 280-0086
VICE CHAIR Rev. Thomas Schierkolk Term: 2023 Eben Junction, MI | [email protected] (W) (906) 439-5833 (H) (906) 439-5574
SEC Rev. Mark Johnson Term: 2024 Dalton, MN | [email protected] (W) (218) 589-8909 (C) (218) 770-0271
Mr. Ivar Berge Term: 2025 Fargo, ND | [email protected] (W) (701) 280-9156 (C) (701) 388-0712
259 AFLC SCHOOLS
PRESIDENT - Rev. Wade Mobley AFLC Schools (W) (763) 412-2026 (C) (605) 201-1801 [email protected]
FLS DEAN - Rev. James Molstre AFLC Schools (W) (763) 412-2026 (C) (815) 409-5944 [email protected]
FLBC DEAN - Rev. Adam Osier AFLC Schools (W) 763-412-2024 [email protected]
VP OF OPERATIONS - Mr. Larry Myhrer AFLC Schools (C) (651) 295-2758 (H) (763) 515-3781 [email protected]
......
FLBC 3134 East Medicine Lake Blvd Plymouth, MN 55441 763-544-9501
FLS 3120 East Medicine Lake Blvd Plymouth, MN 55441 763-412-2026
260 BOARD OF TRUSTEES
SEC Rev. Alan Arneson Term: 2021 Amery, WI | [email protected] (W) (218) 435-1590 (C) (218) 431-0147 (H) (218) 435-6779
Mr. Gary Erickson Term: 2021 Dalton, MN | [email protected] (H) (218) 589-7450
Mr. Philip Johnson Term: 2022 Esko, MN | [email protected] (C) (218) 590-3400 (H) (218) 878-1159
CHAIR Rev. Todd Erickson Term: 2023 Roseau, MN | [email protected] (W) (218) 463-1243 (C) (612) 916-1904
Mr. Dean Nelson Term: 2023 Vergas, MN | [email protected] (C) (612) 749-6401 (H) (218) 342-2114
Mr. Donald Balmer Term: 2024 Thief River Falls, MN | [email protected] (C) (218) 277-9169 (H) (218) 681-3383
Rev. Jason Gudim Term: 2025 Golden Valley, MN | [email protected] (W) (612) 824-5527 (C) (952) 201-8689
261 WORLD MISSIONS COMMITTEE
VCHAR Mr. Scott Erickson Term: 2021 Plymouth, MN | [email protected] (H) (218) 782-3851 (C) (108-242-4786
Rev. David Nelson Term: 2022 Marshall, MN | [email protected] (C) (218) 469-3356 (H) (218) 528-3247
Mr. Paul Handsaker Term: 2023 Radcliffe, IA | [email protected] (H) (515) 899-243
CHAIR Rev. Craig Johnson Term: 2023 Astoria, OR | [email protected] (W) (503) 325-2925 (C) (503) 440-3131 (H) (503) 338-4471
Rev. Kent Sperry Term: 2024 Beulah, ND| [email protected] (W) (701) 873-5650 (C) (815) 501-9629
Mr. Kenneth Sletten Term: 2024 Duluth, MN | [email protected] (W) (218) 722-1972 Ext. 2732 (H) (218) 525-7455
Mr. Stephen Deysher Term: 2025 Fleetwood, PA | (C) (610) 790-9200
JOURNEY MISSIONS Mr. Jonathan Nelson (W) (763) 545-5631 (C) (406) 212-2058 [email protected]
WORLD MISSIONS DIRECTOR Rev. Earl Korhonen (W) (763) 545-5631 [email protected]
262 HOME MISSIONS COMMITTEE
Rev. Dale Finstrom Term: 2021 Fertile, MN | [email protected] (C) (701) 371-5281 (H) (218) 945-3015
VICE CHAIR Mr. Ron Jorgenson Term: 2022 Lidgerwood, ND | [email protected] (C) (701) 870-4995 (H)
Mr. Tom Caouette Term: 2023 Nisswa, MN | [email protected] (C) (218) 232-5889 (H) (763) 496-1632
CHAIR Mr. Glenn Mork Term: 2023 Buffalo, MN | [email protected] (C) (612) 310-2395 (H)
Mr. David Strand Term: 2024 Kindred, ND | [email protected] (H) (701) 645-2307 (C) (701) 261-1158
Rev. Mark Richardson Term: 2024 Faith, SD | [email protected] (W) (605) 967-2381 (C) (605) 515-0548
Rev. Andy Coyle Term: 2025 Summerset, SD | [email protected] (C) (605) 200-2758
HOME MISSIONS DIRECTOR Rev. James L. Johnson Otsego, MN | [email protected] (W) 763-545-5631 (C) (805) 807-8336
263 BAY BROADCASTING COMPANY BOARD OF DIRECTORS Mr. Paul Christenson Term: 2021 Fergus Falls, MN | [email protected] (H) (218) 736-6805 Rev. Joe Ocker Term: 2022 Frost, MN | [email protected] (W) (507) 878-3391 (C) (507) 525-2128 (H) (507) 878-3337
Mr. Benjamin Dahl Term: 2023 Coeur d’Alene, ID | [email protected] (C) (218) 684-1160
264 FREE LUTHERAN ASSOCIATION OF PILOTS BOARD (FLAPS)
Mr. Joel Forness Term: 2021 Wahpeton, ND | [email protected] (C) (701) 553-8599 Rev. Thomas Tuura Term: 2021 Stover, MO | [email protected] (W) (573) 377-2819 (C) (507) 381-2822 (H) (573) 377-2599 Rev. Mark Antal Term: 2022 Apple Valley, MN | [email protected] (C) (701) 331-1173 (H) (701) 284-6886
SECRETARY Mr. David Mattson Term: 2022 Centerville, SD | [email protected] (W) (218) 782-2310 (C) (605) 214-0118 Shane Voxland Term: 2023 McIntosh, MN | [email protected] (H) (218) 563-2151 (C) (218) 431-0327 Pastor Henry Mohagen Term: 2024 Reva, SD | [email protected] (W) (605) 866-4606 (C) (605) 210-2026 (H) (6050 866-4685
Mr. Lavon Bohling Term: 2025 Inman, KS | [email protected] (C) (620) 755-2792
FLAPS DIRECTOR Dr. Kevin Lee Beulah, ND | [email protected] (C) (701) 870-2311 (H) (701) 873-2311
265 ASSOCIATION RETREAT CENTER BOARD
Dr. Steven Johnson Term: 2021 Upsala, MN | [email protected] (W) (320) 573-2071 (C) (320) 492-8520 (H) (320) 573-2073
Rev. Richard Carr Term: 2022 Tioga, ND | [email protected] (W) (701) 664-2187 (C) (701) 641-1736 (H) (701) 664-3992
Mr. Kevin O'Neil Term: 2023 Beresford, SD | [email protected] (C) (763) 226-6046
Mr. Roger Benson Term: 2024 Brooklyn Center, MN | [email protected] (C) (612) 221-5316
SECRETARY Mr. Chad Rieschl Term: 2025 Brooklyn Park, MN | [email protected] (C) (612) 802-1809 (H) (612) 889-8779
ARC DIRECTOR Mr. Kirk Rautio Osceola, WI | [email protected] (W) (715) 294-2877 (C) (763) 498-2956
266 BOARD OF PUBLICATIONS & PARISH EDUCATION
CHAIR Rev. Dennis Norby Term: 2021 Valley City, ND | [email protected] (W) (701) 845-2753 (C) (815) 883-1673 (H) (701) 490-3467
SECRETARY Mrs. Maren Sletten Term: 2022 Argusville, ND | [email protected] (C) (701) 205-7365 (H) (701) 484-9361
Mrs. Suzanne Tietjen Term: 2023 Wetmore, MI | [email protected] (C) (309) 369-6969 (H) (906) 573-3333
VICE CHAIR Rev. Ryan Patenaude Term: 2024 Kindred, ND | [email protected] (C) (701) 429-7101
Mrs. Leeanna Lunn Term: 2025 Upsala, MN | [email protected] (C) (515) 310-0347 (H) (515) 733-9610
DIRECTOR Mrs. Marian Christopherson Plymouth, MN | [email protected] (W) (763) 412-2010 (C) (763) 331-2691
267 YOUTH BOARD
SECRETARY Mrs. Sharon Rykhus Term: 2021 Sioux Falls, SD | [email protected] (C) (605) 351-0512
CHAIR Rev. Eric Rasmussen Term: 2022 Fergus Falls, MN | [email protected] (W) (218) 736-4282 (C) (218) 770-4161
VICE CHAIR Mr. Adam McCarlson Term: 2023 Sioux Falls, SD | [email protected] (W) (605) 371-3800 (C) (605) 265-0507
Mrs. Michele Smith Term: 2024 Brookings, SD | [email protected] (C) (605) 690-7429
Dr. Nathan Olson Term: 2025 Savage, MN | [email protected] (W) (651) 456-0249 (C) (952) 412-0740
DIRECTOR Rev. Jason Holt St. Michael, MN | [email protected] (W) (763) 545-5631 (C) (651) 324-9712
268 BENEFITS BOARD
Rev. Brad Putnam Term: 2021 Cloquet, MN | [email protected] (W) (218) 628-1306 (C) (218) 591-7631
CHAIR Mr. Tony Onnen Term: 2022 Cokato, MN | [email protected] (W) (320) 286-2772 ext 16 (C) (320) 224-2052 (H) (320) 224-2052 Mr. James Rolf Term: 2023 Moorhead, MN | [email protected] (H) (218) 512-0398
SECRETARY Mr. Phillip Peterson Term: 2024 Beresford, SD | [email protected] (C) (605) 321-0768 (H) (605) 763-2515
VICE CHAIR Rev. Kenneth Moland Term: 2025 Graham, NC | [email protected] (C) (425) 273-6366
AGENT Mr. Thomas Johnston Victoria, MN | [email protected] (C) (952) 221-1479
269 AFLC EVANGELISM & DISCIPLESHIP BOARD
Rev. Jim Ritter Term: 2021 Shakopee, MN | [email protected] (C) (952) 426-5806 (W) (952) 496-3126
Mr. Micah Johnson Term: 2022 Maple Grove, MN | [email protected] (C) (763) 333-5159
CHAIR Mr. Kevin Hoops Term: 2023 Byron, NE | [email protected] (C) (402) 200-0164 (H) (785) 237-8607
Mr. Michael Lynnes Term: 2024 Leonard, ND | [email protected] (C) (701) 371-8326 (H) (701) 645-2374
Rev. Matthew Quanbeck Term: 2025 Laurel, NE | [email protected] (W) (402) 256-8110 (C) (763) 202-3018
DIRECTOR Rev. Randy Nelson Brooklyn Park, MN | [email protected] (W) (763) 412-2021
270 AFLC FOUNDATION (3 year term)
COORDINATING COMMITTEE Rev. Timothy Johnson Term: 2023 Pipestone, MN | [email protected] (W) (507) 825-5958 (C) (507) 215-1478 [email protected] Mr. Ron Strand Term: 2022 Wahpeton, ND | [email protected] (C) (218) 790-5536 (H) (701) 553-8523
SCHOOLS Mr. Dean Nelson Term: 2021 Vargas, MN | [email protected] (C) (612) 749-6401 (H) (218) 342-2114
Rev. James R. Johnson Term: 2022 Fergus Falls, MN | [email protected] (W) (218) 736-4282 (C) (218) 770-0693
MISSIONS Rev. Wayne Hjermstad Term: 2022 Elk River, MN | [email protected] (C) 218-358-0088 Dr. Lyle Mattson Term: 2021 Greenbush, MN | [email protected] (W) (C) (H) (218) 782-2310
ARC Dr. Steven Johnson Term: 2021 Upsala, MN | [email protected] (W) (320) 573-2071 (C) (320) 492-8520
Mr. Thomas Asfeldt Term: 2023 Sioux Falls, SD | [email protected] (H) (605) 929-9208
271 BUDGET ANALYSIS COMMITTEE
Mr. Cory Buck Term: 2021 Sioux Falls, SD | [email protected] (W) (C) (612) 619-1406 (H) (612) 619-1406
Christine Stout Term: 2022 Presto, PA | [email protected] (C) (412) 278-4361 (H) (412) 278-4361
Mr. Michael Tietjen Term: 2022 Wetmore, MI | [email protected] (H) (906) 573-3333
Mr. Darin Dykstra Term: 2023 Sioux Falls, SD | [email protected] (C)
Mr. Kirk Rautio Term: 2023 Osceola, WI | [email protected] (C) (763) 498-2956 (W) (715) 294-2877
272 NOMINATING & RESOLUTION COMMITTEES
2020 NOMINATING COMMITTEE *appointed Central Tri State Rev. Matthew Nelson Radcliffe, IA Eastern Mr. Joan Culler Hagerstown, MD Eastern ND Mr. Jeremy Zeltinger Valley City, ND Illinois Mr. James Thompson Edgerton, WI Lake Superior Rev. David Handsaker Cloquet, MN Minneapolis Mr. Jim Berge Maple Grove, MN NE/KS/CO Rev. Kenneth Hart Fairbury, NE NO Central MN Mrs. Angie Berg Bemidji, MN Northern MI Rev. Dave Ryerson Ishpeming, MI NW MN Mr. Emory Flaten Newfolden, MN Pacific NW Rev. Calvin Willard Everett, WA South Central Mrs. Judy Rehmer Cole Camp, MO South Dakota Mr. Iver Heier Prairie City, SD Southwestern Mrs. Alicia Langness Thousand Oaks, CA WestCentral MN Rev. Rick Larson Ortonville, MN Western ND E MT Mrs. Karen Pederson Tioga, ND
COMMITTEE #1 - ADMINISTRATIONS Rev. Karl Anderson McIntosh, MN Rev. Ryan Tonneson Moorhead, MN Mr. Bruce Stoudt Bechtelsville, PA Mr. Stephen Quanbeck Brooklyn Park, MN Mr. David Efteland Bloomington, MN
COMMITTEE #2 - SCHOOLS Rev. Kevin Czymbor Armour, SD Rev. Kirk Flaa Sioux Falls, SD Mrs. Diana Richardson Faith, SD Miss Alison Mundfrom Mesa, AZ Mrs. Ruth Rautio Osceola, WI
COMMITTEE #3 - MISSIONS Rev. John Amundson New Leipzig, ND Mr. Bill Fish Everett, WA Mrs. Angie Lombardo Yorkville, IL Rev. Todd Klemme Bagley, MN Mrs. Beverly Enderlein Plymouth, MN
COMMITTEE #4 - PUBLICATIONS PARISH ED & YOUTH Rev. John Brennan Oklahoma City, OK Mrs. Michelle Brennan Oklahoma City, OK Mrs. Rebecca Moan Corcoran, MN Mrs. Bonnie Handsaker Radcliffe, IA Mrs. Faith Nelson Prinsburg, MN
COMMITTEE #5 - EVANGELISM & BENEFITS Rev Dr. Steve Lombardo Yorkville, IL Rev. Jim Rasmussen Maple Grove, MN Mr. Jeremy Nelson Shakopee, MN Mr. Flint McLoughlin Minot, ND Mr. Scott Carmichael Saint Francis, KS
273 COLLOQUY COMMITTEE FOR 2020-2021
Rev. Elden Nelson Prinsburg, MN | [email protected] (C) (763) 226-4704
Rev. Jon Wellumson Williston, ND | [email protected] (W) (701) 572-0138 (C) (701) 770-7938
Rev. Luke Berntson Northome, MN | [email protected] (W) (218) 596-8580 (C) (701) 331-1595
Rev. Thomas Olson Enderlin, ND | [email protected] (W) (701) 983-4626 (C) (763) 213-4851
Rev. Kevin Olson Crystal, MN | [email protected] (W) (952) 884-4751 (C) (952) 412-1366
274 AFLC MISSIONS CORPORATION *H Home Missions committee; *W World Missions Committee; *F Flaps Board; *B Bay Broadcast TERM EXPIRES IN 2021 Mr. Don Berge, Fargo, ND Mr. Carl Busse, Humboldt, TN *B Mr. Paul Christenson, Fergus Falls, MN Mr. Robert Alan Christian, Newark, IL *H Rev. Andy Coyle, Summerset, SD *B Mr. Benjamin S. Dahl, Coeur d’Alene, ID *W Mr. Stephen Deysher, Fleetwood, PA *W Mr. Scott Erickson, Plymouth, MN Mr. Glenn Espe, TRF, MN *H Rev. Dale Finstrom, Glyndon, MN Rev. James Fugleberg, Moorhead, MN Mrs. Lois Grothe, Astoria, OR Rev. Gary Haug, Brooklyn Park, MN Rev. Wayne Hjermstad, Elk River, MN Rev. Lynn Kinneberg, McVille, ND *H Mr. Glenn Mork, Buffalo, MN Rev. Gerald R. Peterson, Durant, OK Mr. Eldwyn VanBruggen, Valley City, ND *F Mr. Shane Voxland, McIntosh, MN Mr. Jeremy Zeltinger, Valley City, ND TERM EXPIRES IN 2022 Pastor Brady A. Arneson, Honolulu, HI *F Mr. Lavon Bohling, Inman, KS *H Mr. Tom Caouette, Nisswa, MN *F Mr. Joel Forness, Wahpeton, ND Mr. Kenneth L. Graham, Camarillo, CA Mr. Michael Grahn, Roseau, MN Rev. Richard Gunderson, Grass Valley, OR Mrs. Barbara Gustafson, Apache Junction, AZ Rev. David Handsaker, Cloquet, MN Mr. Kevin Hoops, Byron, NE *W Rev. Craig Johnson, Astoria, OR Rev. Jon Langness, Deshler, NE Rev. Richard P. Larson, Ortonville, MN *F Mr. David Mattson, Centerville, SD *F Pastor Henry Mohagen, Reva, SD Mr. Marlow Nash, Colfax, ND Mr. Tim Rolf, McIntosh, MN Mr. Greg Schmitke, Moorhead, MN Rev. Tony Stockman, Burnsville, MN Mr. Richard A. West, Mankato, MN TERM EXPIRES 2023 *F Rev. Mark Antal, Apple Valley, MN Rev. Brian L. Davidson, Ashby, MN Rev. Connely Dyrud, Maple Grove, MN Rev. Eugene W. Enderlein, Plymouth, MN Mr. Dean Feistner, Madison, SD Mrs. Christie R. Friestad, Camarillo, CA Mr. Tom Fugleberg, Badger, MN Rev. Jarrod Hylden, Beresford, SD Rev. Leslie Johnson, Wilson, WI Mr. Vince Larson, Fargo, ND 275 Rev. George Lautner, Larimore, ND Rev. Brandon Marschner, Culbertson, MT Rev. Jerry A. Nelson, La Crosse, WI Rev. Thomas C. Olson, Farmington, MN Mr. Rodney Scheel, Fergus Falls, MN Mrs. Cheryl Skordahl, Rogers, MN *W Rev. Kent Sperry, Beulah, ND *H Mr. David Strand, Kindred, ND Mrs. Kristin Tanner, Sioux Falls, SD *F Rev. Thomas R. Tuura, Stover, MO TERM EXPIRES 2024 Rev. Matthew Ballmann, San Xntonio, TX Rev. Michael Brandt, Sioux Falls, SD Pastor William Buck, Sioux Falls, SD Mrs. Gloria Flaa, Sioux Falls, SD Mrs. Linda Fugleberg, Moorhoead, MN *W Mr. Paul Handsaker, Radcliffe, IA Rev. David A. Johnson, Boyertown, PA Rev. Richard Long, Arlington, WA Rev. Paul Nash, Fergus Falls, MN Rev. Mark Olson, Kasson, MN Mr. Andrew Quanbeck, Moorhead, MN *H Rev. Mark Richardson, Faith, SD Rev. Greg Schram, Loveland, CO *W Mr. Kenneth L. Sletten, Duluth, MN Rev. Scott K. Stroud, Monroe, WA Mr. Hans Tanner, Fargo, ND Rev. Craig Wentzel, Edmore, ND Dr. Lyle Westrom, Crookston, MN Mr. Jordan Rumohr, Monticello, MN Mr. William Sheldon, Ray, ND
TERM EXPIRES 2025 Rev. John C. Amundson, New Leipzig, ND Mr. Darryl Askvig, Kalispell, MT Rev. Ray Ballmann, Kopperl, TX Mrs. Vonne Coyle, Mankato, MN Dr. Peter Dyrud, Plymouth, MN Rev. Luke Emerson, Saint Francis, KS Mr. Gene Finstrom, Buxton, ND Rev. Micah Hjermstad, West Fargo, ND *H Mr. Ron Jorgenson, Lidgerwood, ND Rev. Todd Klemme, Bagley, MN Dr. Lyle Mattson, Greenbush, MN Rev. Kenneth Moland, Graham, NC *W Rev. David Nelson, Marshall, MN Rev. Jerome Nikunen, Clarion, IA Mrs. Phyllis Nikunen, Clarion, IA Rev. Kris Nyman, Williamsport, MD *B Rev. Joe Ocker, Frost, MN Pastor Mark E. Olson, Winsted, MN Rev. Nicholas Schultz, Kirkland, WA Mrs. Wanita Sletten, Duluth, MN
276 AFLC SCHOOLS CORPORATION (*T designates member Board of Trustees)
TERM EXPIRES 2021 Mr. John Amdahl, Sioux Falls, SD Mr. Nathan Dalager, Argyle, MN Mr. Lyle Forde, Arlington, WA Mr. David Fugleberg, Lakeville, MN Mr. Tom Fugleberg, Badger, MN (deceased) Mrs. Karen Pederson, Tioga, ND Rev. Stephen Snipstead, Kalispell, MT Mr. Doug Swanson, Swanville, MN Mr. John Talley, Newark, IL Rev. George R. Winston, Heath, OH TERM EXPIRES 2022 Rev. Daniel Antal, Grand Forks, ND Rev. Martin Horn, Crystal, MN Miss Wanda Jacobson, Brooklyn Park, MN *T Mr. Philip Johnson, Esko, MN Mr. Erling Langness, Ishpeming, MI Dr. Daniel Mundfrom, Greeley, CO Mr. Samuel Nash, Fergus Falls, MN *T Mr. Dean S. Nelson, Vergas, MN Rev. Eric Rasmussen, Fergus Falls, MN Mr. James Rolf, Moorhead, MN TERM EXPIRES 2023 *T Mr. Donald Balmer, Thief River Falls, MN Mr. Arne Berge, Binford, ND Pastor William Buck, Sioux Falls, SD *T Rev. Todd Erickson, Roseau, MN *T Rev. Jason Gudim, Golden Valley, MN Mr. Steve Jankord, Fort Mill, SC Rev. Paul Kneeland, Prescott, AZ Dr. Nathan Olson, Savage, MN Rev. Lloyd Quanbeck, Moorhead, MN Rev. Calvin Willard, Everett, WA TERM EXPIRES 2024 Mrs. Gwen Berge, Maple Grove, MN Mrs. Bonnie Handsaker, Radcliffe, IA Rev. Gideon Russell Johnson, Kenyon, MN Mrs. Robin R. Johnson, Esko, MN Mr. Elika Korhonen, Fargo, ND Mrs. Susan Parsley, Pipestone, MN Rev. Matthew Quanbeck, Laurel, NE Rev. Kirk Thorson, Sioux Falls, SD Rev. Peter Ward, Pelican Rapids, MN Rev. Jon Wellumson, Williston, ND TERM EXPIRES 2025 *T Rev. Alan Arneson, Amery, WI Rev. Brett Boe, Shakopee, MN Mr. Cory Buck, Sioux Falls, SD Mr. Loiell Dyrud, Thief River Falls, MN *T Mr. Gary Erickson, Dalton, MN Rev. Kirk Flaa, Sioux Falls, SD Mr. David Haugen, Pelican Repids, MN Rev. James R. Johnson, Fergus Falls, MN Pastor Michael McCarlson, Webster, SD Mr. Brent Peterson, Valley City, ND
277 ARC CORPORATION (*A designates member ARC Board)
TERM EXPIRES 2021 Mr. Shawn Adrian, Binford, ND Mr. Ivar Berge, Fargo, ND Mr. Kermit Berge, Larimore, ND Mr. Kevin Hooper, Ishpeming, MI Mrs. Hannah Langness, Deshler, NE Mr. John Rieschl, Minneapolis, MN Mr. Bruce Rokala, Kimball, MN Mr. Roger Seldal, DeKalb, IL Rev. Jeremy Vance, Coon Rapids, MN Mr. Daniel R. Wilhelm, Kalispell, MT TERM EXPIRES 2022 Mr. Andrew P. Benson, Beloit, WI Rev. Ron Brubakken, Grand Forks, ND Mr. Albert Engevik, Eden, SD Mr. Harold Erickson, Wadena, MN Mr. Donald Jones, Kandiyohi, MN Rev. Jesse T. Kneeland, Saint Michael, MN Mr. Steven C. Lehmann, Milford, IL Rev. Aaron R. Olson, Arlington, SD *A Mr. Kevin O’Neil, Beresford, SD Rev. Calvin Willard, Everett, WA TERM EXPIRES 2023 Rev. Karl Anderson, McIntosh, MN Mr. Caleb Benson, Columbia City, IN Mrs. Tami Demo, Saint Michael, MN Mr. Douglas Hertlein, Carroll, OH *A Dr. Steven Johnson, Upsala, MN Mr. Tim Jordan, Plymouth, MN Rev. Shane McLoughlin, Minot, ND *A Mr. Chad Rieschl, Brooklyn Park, MN Mr. Bruce Sellent, Almena, WI Mr. Roger VanSomeren, Amery, WI TERM EXPIRES 2024 Mr. Thomas Asfeldt, Sioux Falls, SD Mr. Dan C. Ballmann, Hico, TX Rev. Richard Carr, Tioga, ND Rev. Leroy Flickinger, Thief River Falls, MN Mr. Flint McLoughlin, Minot, ND Mrs. Penny Nash, Fargo, ND Rev. Elden Nelson, Prinsburg, MN Mrs. Naomi Paige, Dayton, MN Ms. Lori Thompson, Kenyon, MN Mr. Curtis Twedt, Oxbow, ND TERM EXPIRES 2025 *A Mr. Roger Belson, Brooklyn Center, MN Mrs. Mary Christenson, Fergus Falls, MN Mr. Stanley Christenson, Balsam Lake, WI Mr. Michael Coyle, Mankato, MN Mr. Ernest Hilbert, Wheatland, IA Mrs. Nancy Langness, Ishpeming, MI Mr. Denis Parsley, Pipestone, MN Mrs. Robyn Pelehos, Welch, MN Mr. Roger Quanbeck, Hallock, MN Mr. Brian Rice, White Earth, ND
278 AFLC MISSIONARIES
Abel, Rev. Jonathan Schierkolk, Rev. Todd BRAZIL MEXICO
Abel, Matthew Sliver, Jonni BRAZIL BRAZIL Abel, Rev. Paul Wagner, Joshua BRAZIL Sierra Leone/AFRICA Berger, Micah UGANDA- AFRICA Jore, Rev. Benjamin (On Loan to Distant Shores Media) Jore, Rev. Nathan UGANDA - AFRICA Kvale, Steve (On Loan to Wycliffe) Lee, Rev. John BRAZIL Olson, Rev. Andrew (On Loan LBT) Raan, Rev. Brent UGANDA - AFRICA Rokenbrodt, Michael UGANDA
279 AFLC CLERGY
Rev. Lyle Aadahl Rev. Craig Benson Hayfield, MN Morris, IL Rev. Jonathan Abel Rev. Jon Benson Maringa, BR Newark, IL Rev. Paul Abel Rev. Mark Benz Campo Largo, BR Colorado Springs, CO Rev. Alex Amiot Rev. Luke Berntson Thief River Falls, MN Northome, MN Rev. John C.Amundson Rev. Steve C.Berntson New Leipzig, ND Jamestown, ND Rev. Karl Anderson Rev. Brett A.Boe McIntosh, MN Shakopee, MN Rev. Richard Anderson Pastor Kevin Borg Elk River, MN Valley City, ND Rev. J. Christian Andrews Rev. Michael Brandt Springfield, MO Sioux Falls, SD Rev. Daniel Antal Rev. John M.Brennan Grand Forks, ND Melvin, IL Rev. Mark Antal Rev. Ron Brubakken Park River, ND Argyle, WI Rev. Alan Arneson Pastor William Buck Fosston, MN Sioux Falls, SD Pastor Brady A.Arneson Rev. Rob Buechler Honolulu, HI Starkweather, ND Rev. Joel S.Baker Rev. Steven P.Carlson Minneapolis, MN Pittsburgh, PA Rev. Thomas L.Baker Rev. Timothy Carlson Amarillo, TX Cumberland, WI Rev. Louis F.Balderach Rev. Richard Carr Hondo, TX Tioga, ND Rev. Matthew Ballmann Rev. John R.Chandler San Antonio, TX Amarillo, TX Rev. Ray Ballmann Rev. Frank Cherney Kopperl, TX Humboldt, TN Rev. Tim Banks Rev. Tomasz Chmiel Cannon Falls, MN L'viv, UKR
Rev. David R.Barnhart Rev. Eric R.Christenson Melbourne, FL Amery, WI Rev. Walt Beaman Rev. Andy Coyle East Grand Forks, MN Summerset, SD Rev. Alan Bedard Rev. Dana Coyle Wyoming, MN Ottawa, IL Rev. Jeremy Crowell 280 Naknek, AK Rev. Leroy Flickinger Rev. Terry Culler Thief River Falls, MN Hagerstown, MD Rev. Chad Forman Rev. Kevin Czymbor Monroe, MI Armour, SD Pastor Curt Frankhauser Rev. Ronald B.Dahle Fargo, ND Bismarck, ND Rev. David Franz Pastor Roger David Baxter, MN Minier, IL Rev. Peter Franz Rev. Brian L.Davidson Maple Grove, MN Dickinson, ND Pastor Glenn Frecks Rev. Norman E.Dornquast Holdrege, NE Mountain Home, AR Rev. Richard Frederick Rev. Connely Dyrud Conway, AR Maple Grove, MN Rev. Chad N.Friestad Rev. Nick Dyrud Camarillo, CA Minneapolis, MN Rev. David Fruehauf Rev. Rob Edwards Maple Grove, MN Dassel, MN Rev. James Fugleberg Rev. John Eidsmoe Moorhead, MN Pike Road, AL Rev. Kevin Garner Rev. Curtis Emerson Marseilles, IL Wadena, MN Dr. James C.Gerdeen Rev. Luke Emerson Columbia, MO St. Francis, KS Rev. Dan Giles Rev. Eugene W. Enderlein Mesa, AZ Plymouth, MN Pastor Don Gillespie Rev. Richard Erickson Ashkum, IL Brooklyn Park, MN Rev. Thomas Gilman Rev. Todd Erickson Canton, SD Roseau, MN Rev. Richard Gilmore Rev. Richard L.Ewing Onalaska, WI Ottawa, IL Rev. William Goodman Rev. Joe Faldet Bemidji, MN Saint James, MN Rev. Dennis D.Gray Rev. Arlo Feiock Newfolden, MN Bemidji, MN Rev. Scott Gray Rev. Dale Finstrom Marion, IA Fertile, MN Rev. Alvin Grothe Rev. Kirk Flaa Astoria, OR Sioux Falls, SD Rev. Jason Gudim Rev. Kendal A.Flaten Golden Valley, MN Ortley, SD Rev. Scott L.Guhl Rev. Michael J.Flechsig Gifford, IL Blackduck, MN
281 Rev. Richard Gunderson Rev. Jarrod Hylden Eugene, OR Beresford, SD Rev. Larry Haagenson Rev. Dean J.Iverson Loveland, CO Williston, ND Rev. James Haga Rev. Scott Jans Shoreview, MN Fairbank, IA Rev. Marlin Harris Rev. Steven Eric Jensen Mora, MN Milford, IL Rev. Kenneth Hart Rev. Henry Johansen Fairbury, NE Carlton, MN Pastor Justin Hartman Rev. Craig Johnson Dillon, MT Astoria, OR Rev. Gary A.Haug Rev. David A.Johnson Brooklyn Park, MN Boyertown, PA Rev. Philip Haugen Rev. David W.Johnson Crystal, MN Burnsville, MN Rev. Steven J.Heilmann Pastor Eric Johnson Gallatin, TN Gilbert, AZ Rev. Everett Hind Rev. Gideon Russell Johnson Inman, KS Kenyon, MN Rev. David Hinrichs Rev. James L.Johnson Park River, ND Otsego, MN Rev. Micah W.Hjermstad Rev. James R.Johnson West Fargo, ND Fergus Falls, MN Rev. Wayne Hjermstad Rev. Leslie Johnson Elk River, MN Wilson, WI Rev. Brad Hoefs Rev. Mark S.Johnson Elkhorn, NE Dalton, MN Rev. Herbert Hoff Rev. Michael F.G.Johnson Olympia, WA Canal Winchester, OH Rev. Jason Holt Rev. Rodney Johnson Saint Michael, MN Stanley, ND Rev. Phillip Hooper Rev. Roy B.Johnson Duluth, MN Bigfork, MN Pastor Lee Hoops Rev. Timothy L.Johnson Saint Michael, MN Pipestone, MN Rev. Martin Horn Rev. Walter Johnson Crystal, MN Shakopee, MN Rev. Jan Horne Rev. Wendell Johnson Robins, IA Cambridge, MN Rev. Raynard Huglen Rev. Timothy S.Jones Newfolden, MN Chula Vista, CA Rev. Daniel Hurner Rev. Ben Jore Dalton, MN Mendota Heights, MN
282 Rev. David Jore Rev. Lyndon Korhonen Mentor, MN Plymouth, MN Rev. Nathan Jore Rev. Ivars Krafts Jinja, UGANDA/AFRICA Minneapolis, MN Rev. Gary L.Jorgenson Rev. Lee Kuhns Ramsey, MN El Campo, TX Rev. Joel W.Kangas Rev. Christopher Kumpula Erskine, MN Saint Clair, MN Rev. Ted Kennedy Rev. Wesley Langaas Nogales, AZ Karlstad, MN Rev. John Kent Rev. Jonathan Langness Lakeside, CA Deshler, NE Rev. John H.Kiehl Rev. Dale Lankford Metropolis, IL Mount Vernon, WA Rev. Lynn Kinneberg Rev. Richard P.Larson McVille, ND Ortonville, MN Rev. Paul M.Kinney Rev. George Lautner Silverhill, AL Larimore, ND Rev. Howard Kjos Rev. John E.Lee Roslyn, SD Plymouth, MN Pastor Kent Klawonn Rev. Robert L.Lee Viborg, SD Crystal, MN Rev. Todd Klemme Rev. Robert W.Lee Bagley, MN Naknek, AK Rev. Mike Klenner Rev. James Lindgren Calumet, MI Madison, SD Rev. Ray Klug Rev. Brent A.Logeman Blackduck, MN Charleston, MO Rev. Charles L.Knapp Rev. Patrick Lohse Mason, WI Morris, IL Rev. George Knapp Dr. Steven Lombardo Willmar, MN Yorkville, IL Rev. Jesse T.Kneeland Pastor Luke Long Saint Michael, MN Arlington, WA Rev. Paul Kneeland Rev. Richard Long Dayton, MN Arlington, WA Rev. Steve Kneeland Rev. David Lusk Duluth, MN Newville, PA Rev. Ronald Knutson Rev. Ryan J.Mairs Kerkhoven, MN Waseca, MN Dr. Johan Koren Rev. Ken Marquardt Bridge of Allan, FK9 4AY Forest Lake, MN Rev. Earl Korhonen Rev. Brandon Marschner Plymouth, MN Culbertson, MT
283 Rev. Shane McLoughlin Pastor Donald Norr Minot, ND Brainerd, MN Rev. Mel Meyer Rev. Bradley D.Novacek South Bend, IN Kasson, MN Rev. Bill Mitchell Rev. Kris A.Nyman Hendersonville, NC Hagerstown, MD Rev. Jerry Moan Rev. Joe Ocker Corcoran, MN Frost, MN Rev. Wade Mobley Rev. Aaron R.Olson Plymouth, MN Arlington, SD Pastor Henry Mohagen Rev. Andrew Olson Reva, SD Crystal, MN Rev. Kenneth Moland Rev. Brent Olson Graham, NC Robbinsdale, MN Rev. James Molstre Rev. David G.Olson Maple Grove, MN Sioux Falls, SD Rev. Mark Molstre Rev. Kevin J.Olson Northwood, ND Crystal, MN Rev. Stephen Mundfrom Rev. Mark Olson Crystal, MN Minneapolis, MN Rev. Paul Nash Pastor Mark E.Olson Brooklyn Park, MN Winsted, MN Rev. Barry L.Nelson Dr. Nathan Olson Tripp, SD Savage, MN Rev. David A.Nelson Rev. Rodger Olson Badger, MN Tioga, ND Rev. Elden Nelson Rev. Terry L.Olson Prinsburg, MN Grafton, ND Rev. Jerry A.Nelson Rev. Thomas C.Olson La Crosse, WI Farmington, MN Rev. Justin E.Nelson Rev. Thomas W.Olson Sioux Falls, SD Golden Valley, ND Rev. Matthew W.Nelson Rev. Wayne A.Olson Radcliffe, IA Edinburg, ND Rev. Randy Nelson Rev. Dennis O'Neil Brooklyn Park, MN Oconto, WI Rev. Allan Ness Rev. Adam Osier Oregon, WI Maple Grove, MN Rev. David C.Niemela Pastor Mark A.Ostrem Greenbush, MN Wakonda, SD, Rev. Jerome C.Nikunen Pastor Roger Pahl Richfield, MN Pine Island, MN Rev. Dennis Norby Rev. Del Palmer Valley City, ND Shakopee, MN,
284 Rev. Tom Parrish Rev. Brian R.Ricke Mendota Heights, MN Saint Michael, MN Rev. Ryan Patenaude Rev. James Ritter Kindred, ND Shakopee, MN Rev. Brian Pearson Rev. Philip Rokke Ruskin, FL Newfolden, MN Rev. LeRoy C.Petersen Dr. Joel Rolf Moscow Mills, MO Andover, MN Rev. David L.Peterson Rev. Dave Ryerson Sturgeon Lake, MN Ishpeming, MI Rev. David P.Peterson Rev. Alvin Sather Chesapeake, VA Greenbush, MN Rev. Jerry R.Peterson Rev. Craig Scavo Durant, OK Kalispell, MT Rev. Michael Peterson Rev. Thomas Schierkolk Alexandria, MN Eben Junction, MI Rev. Matthew J.Pillman Rev. Todd Schierkolk Pipestone, MN Jerez Zacatecas MEXICO Rev. Tonnes Pollestad Rev. Irvin Schmitke Andover, MN Thief River Falls, MN Rev. Brad Putnam Rev. Greg Schram Cloquet, MN Loveland, CO Rev. Lloyd Quanbeck Rev. Nick Schultz Moorhead, MN Kirkland, WA Rev. Matthew Quanbeck Rev. Larry Severson Laurel, NE Roseau, MN Rev. Brent S.Raan Rev. Gary Simons Jinja, UGANDA/AFRICA West Fargo, ND Rev. Marc Rakow Rev. John Skeie Glencoe, MN Cottage Grove, MN Rev. Richard L.Ramsbacher Rev. Joshua Skogerboe Strafford, MO Montgomery, IL Rev. Eric Rasmussen Rev. David Skordahl Fergus Falls, MN Rogers, MN Rev. Jim Rasmussen Rev. Timothy K.Skramstad Maple Grove, MN Eagan, MN Rev. Thomas Reagan Rev. Kerwin Sletto Wahpeton, ND Grand Forks, ND Rev. Doug Reitsch Rev. Richard Sliper Shelton, WA Ellendale, MN Rev. Mark Richardson Rev. Ronald Smith Faith, SD Brookings, SD Rev. Donald Richman Rev. Stephen Snipstead Bloomington, MN Kalispell, MT
285 Rev. Kent Sperry Rev. Joel Walde Beulah, ND Dillon, MT Rev. Gerald L.Steele Rev. Peter Ward Morris, IL Pelican Rapids, MN Rev. Matthew Steendahl Rev. Roy Warwick Brookings, OR Arlington, WA Rev. Tony Stockman Rev. Gordon L.Waterman Burnsville, MN Tomball, TX Rev. Edward Strom Rev. Jon Wellumson Kaukauna, WI Williston, ND Rev. Scott K.Stroud Rev. Samuel Wellumson Salinas, CA East Grand Forks, MN Rev. Gordon Strunk Rev. Craig Wentzel Sewickley, PA Edmore, ND Rev. Jeff Swanson Pastor Eric Westlake Naknek, AK Zumbrota, MN Pastor Warren Swanson Rev. Ron Wik Argyle, MN Colfax, WI Rev. Eric J.Swenson Pastor Clayton Wilfer Garden City, IA Fountain Hills, AZ Rev. Richard Taylor Rev. Calvin Willard Eagle Grove, IA Everett, WA Pastor Kenneth Thoreson Rev. George R.Winston Washington Island, WI Newark, OH, 43055-7012 Rev. Gordon Thorpe Eau Claire, WI Rev. Donald C.Thorson Chippewa Falls, WI Rev. Kirk Thorson Sioux Falls, SD Rev. Ryan Tonneson Moorhead, MN Rev. Thomas R.Tuura Stover, MO Pastor Lyle Twite Cloquet, MN Rev. Jonathan Unverzagt Sparta, WI Rev. Jeremy Vance Coon Rapids, MN Rev. Noel Vold Stephenson, VA Rev. Don Voorhees Twin Falls, ID
286 LAY PASTORS SERVING
Pastor Don Edlund Crookston, MN Pastor Robert Grebel Waubay, SD Pastor Dean Lyste Northwood, ND Pastor Michael McCarlson Webster, SD
CANADIAN CLERGY
Pastor John Attwood Pastor Martin Christensen Pastor Conrad N.Dyrland Pastor Dennis Elhard Rev. Kelly Henning Rev. Manfred Kurschner Rev. Robert H.Lewis Rev. Douglas Lutz Pastor Arlin J.Olson Rev. Alvin A.Pinno Pastor Marvin L.Seaborg Rev. Jason Siemens Rev. Brian Smith
287 AFLC CONGREGATIONS BY DISTRICTS (does not include inactive) CENTRAL TRI-STATE Boscobel WI Trinity Lutheran Church Cannon Falls MN Our Saviour’s Ev. Lutheran Church Dexter MN Zion Lutheran Church Eagle Grove IA Holmes Ev Lutheran Church Ellendale MN First Lutheran Church Fairbank IA Lord Of The Harvest Lutheran Church Frost MN Dell Lutheran Church Garden City IA Stavanger Free Lutheran Church Jewell IA St. Paul’s Lutheran Church Kasson MN Mt. Sion Lutheran Church Kenyon MN Emmanuel Lutheran Church Kenyon MN Hauge Lutheran Church Mankato MN Word Of Life Free Lutheran Church Onalaska WI Christ Is Lord Lutheran Church Radcliffe IA Salem Lutheran Church Saint James MN Hosanna Free Lutheran Church Zumbrota MN Our Saviour’s Lutheran Church EASTERN Bethel Park PA Ruthfred Lutheran Church Boyertown PA Living Faith Lutheran Church Canal Winchester OH Peace Free Lutheran Church Canfield OH Paradise Lutheran Church Cranberry Township PA St. John’s of Lovi Evangelical Lutheran Church Hagerstown MD Christ Community Church Hagerstown MD St. Paul’s Evangelical Free Lutheran Church Landisburg PA Mt. Zion Lutheran Church Loysville PA Tressler Memorial Free Lutheran Church Millerstown PA St. Matthew Lutheran Church Newark OH St. John’s Lutheran Church Reading PA Alsace Lutheran Church Trenton MI Stronghold Lutheran Church EASTERN NORTH DAKOTA Abercrombie ND Bethany Free Lutheran Church Binford ND Bethany Lutheran Church Buxton ND Ny Stavanger Free Lutheran Church Churchs Ferry ND North Prairie Free Lutheran Church Devils Lake ND Christ Free Lutheran Church Edinburg ND Grace Free Lutheran Church Edmore ND Living Word Lutheran Church Egeland ND Lakeview Lutheran Church Enderlin ND Hope AFLC Church of Enderlin Fargo ND St. Paul’s Free Lutheran Church Grafton ND Bethel Free Lutheran Church Grand Forks ND Trinity Free Lutheran Church Hampden ND Zoar Lutheran Church Jamestown ND New Hope Free Lutheran Church Larimore ND Living Faith Free Lutheran Church Leonard ND West Prairie Free Lutheran Church Manvel ND Middle Grove Lutheran Church McVille ND New Luther Valley Lutheran Church Minnewaukan ND Trinity Free Lutheran Church Northwood ND Ebenezer Lutheran Church Park River ND Victory Free Lutheran Church Portland ND Valley Free Lutheran Church Starkweather ND Trinity Bergen Lutheran Church Valley City ND Grace Free Lutheran Church Valley City ND Zion Lutheran Church Green Tsp
288 ILLINOIS Argyle WI Cornerstone Lutheran Church Ashkum IL Zion Lutheran Church Bensenville IL Grace Lutheran Church Brodhead WI Bethany Lutheran Church Dekalb IL Grace Free Lutheran Church Gifford IL St. Paul’s Evangelical Lutheran Church Indianapolis IN St. Mark’s Free Lutheran Church Janesville WI Trinity Free Lutheran Church Leland IL St. Petrie Lutheran Church Lincoln IL Good Shepherd Lutheran Church Melvin IL St. Peter’s Lutheran Church Metropolis IL Faith Lutheran Church Metropolis IL St. Stephen’s Lutheran Church Milford IL St. John’s Lutheran Of Schwer Mineral Point WI Faith Lutheran of Mineral Point Montgomery IL St. Olaf Lutheran Church Morris IL Bethlehem Lutheran Church Morris IL Grace Evangelical Lutheran Church Newark IL Helmar Lutheran Church Newark IL Lisbon Bethlehem Ev Lutheran Church Newark IL Newark Lutheran Church Ottawa IL Freedom Lutheran Church Sheridan IL Fox River Lutheran Church Wheatland IA Christian Free Lutheran Church Whitestown IN St. Mark’s Lutheran Church LAKE SUPERIOR Cloquet MN St. Paul’s Lutheran Church Duluth MN Augustana Lutheran Church Duluth MN St. John’s Free Lutheran Church Finlayson MN St. John’s Lutheran Church Mason WI Our Savior’s Free Lutheran Church Superior WI Our Redeemer’s Free Lutheran Church Tamarack MN Tamarack Lutheran Church Virginia MN Good Shepherd Lutheran Church MINNEAPOLIS Amery WI Amery Free Lutheran Church Anoka MN Solid Rock Free Lutheran Church Barronett WI Timberland Ringebu Free Lutheran Church Bloomington MN Emmaus Lutheran Church Cokato MN Good Shepherd Free Lutheran Church Colfax WI Faith Lutheran Church of Running Valley Eagan MN Living Word Lutheran Church Lakeville MN Minnesota Valley Free Lutheran Church Maple Grove MN Grace Free Lutheran Church Minneapolis MN Faith Free Lutheran Church Minneapolis MN Hope Lutheran Church Mora MN True Vine Lutheran Church Plymouth MN Vision Of Glory Lutheran Church Rogers MN Living Hope Church Shakopee MN Faith Lutheran Church Shakopee MN King Of Glory Lutheran Church Stacy MN Sunnyside Free Lutheran Church Wilson WI Christ the King Lutheran Church
289 NEBRASKA KANSAS COLORADO Deshler NE Abiding Word Lutheran Church Fairbury NE Faith Lutheran Church Laurel NE United Lutheran Church Loveland CO Lutheran Church Of Hope Saint Francis KS Peace Lutheran Church Swink CO Mission Lutheran Church NORTH CENTRAL MINNESOTA Bagley MN Alida Lutheran Church Bagley MN Grace Free Lutheran Church Bagley MN Rice Lutheran Church Beltrami MN Resurrection Free Lutheran Church Bemidji MN Bethany Free Lutheran Church Bemidji MN Trinity Free Lutheran Church Blackduck MN Faith Lutheran Church Fosston MN Calvary Free Lutheran Church McIntosh MN Mt. Carmel Free Lutheran Church McIntosh MN Trinity Lutheran Church Mentor MN Maple Bay Free Lutheran Church Mizpah MN Bethesda Lutheran Church Northome MN Hope Lutheran Church Shevlin MN Landstad Lutheran Church Winger MN Dovre Free Lutheran Church NORTHERN MICHIGAN Chassell MI Maranatha Free Lutheran Church Eben Junction MI Calvary Free Lutheran Church Escanaba MI Escanaba Free Lutheran Church Felch MI Abiding Word Lutheran Church Hawks MI St. Peter Lutheran Church Ishpeming MI Hope Free Evangelical Lutheran Church Ontonagon MI Redeemer Free Lutheran Church Pelkie MI Grace Free Lutheran Church Shingleton MI Christ Lutheran Church NORTHWESTERN MINNESOTA Argyle MN Alma Lutheran Church Argyle MN Our Savior’s Lutheran Church Badger MN Badger Creek Lutheran Church Badger MN Oiland Lutheran Church East Grand Forks MN Christ The King Free Lutheran Church Goodridge MN Reiner Lutheran Free Church Greenbush MN United Free Lutheran Church Newfolden MN Westaker Free Lutheran Church Roseau MN Free Lutheran Church of Roseau Roseau MN Rose Free Lutheran Church Salol MN Norland Free Lutheran Church Salol MN Spruce Free Lutheran Church Strandquist MN Hegland Free Lutheran Church Thief River Falls MN Abundant Life Church Thief River Falls MN Our Saviour’s Lutheran Church
290 PACIFIC NORTHWEST Arlington WA Atonement Free Lutheran Church Astoria OR Bethany Lutheran Church Brookings OR Trinity Lutheran Church Dillon MT Our Savior’s Lutheran Church Eugene OR Spencer Creek Lutheran Church Everett WA Calvary Lutheran Church Ferndale WA Triumph Lutheran Church Kalispell MT Faith Free Lutheran Church Kalispell MT Stillwater Free Lutheran Church Kirkland WA Our Redeemer Lutheran Church Lake Stevens WA Elim Lutheran Church Mount Vernon WA Lord of Life Lutheran Church SOUTH CENTRAL Bastrop TX CrossRoads Christian Fellowship Brownsville TX Free Lutheran Fellowship Church Durant OK Faith Lutheran Church El Campo TX Faith Lutheran Church Humboldt TN Ebenezer Free Lutheran Church Kopperl TX Word Of Truth Lutheran Church Marksville LA St. Paul’s Lutheran Church Oklahoma City OK First Lutheran Church Pleasanton TX Good Shepherd Lutheran Church San Juan PR Resurrection Lutheran Church Saint Louis MO Gloria Dei Lutheran Church Silverhill AL Zion Lutheran Church Springfield MO Immanuel Lutheran Church Stover MO Christ Lutheran Church Tomball TX Crown Of Life Lutheran Church Weslaco TX Faith Lutheran Church SOUTH DAKOTA Arlington SD Calvary Free Lutheran Church Armour SD St. Peter Lutheran Church Beresford SD Skrefsrud Lutheran Church Black Hawk SD Shiloh Free Lutheran Church Bruce SD Grace Lutheran Church Canton SD Redeemer Free Lutheran Church Centerville SD Immanuel Free Lutheran Church Chamberlain SD St. Olaf Lutheran Church Delmont SD Hope Lutheran Church Eagle Butte SD Emmanuel Free Lutheran Church Faith SD Bethel Lutheran Church Freeman SD Salem Free Lutheran Church Madison SD Good Shepherd Free Lutheran Church Mitchell SD Amazing Grace Free Lutheran Ortley SD Ortley Free Lutheran Church Pipestone MN Christ The King Lutheran Church Pukwana SD Pukwana Free Lutheran Church Reva SD Slim Buttes Lutheran Church Salem SD Center Free Lutheran Church Sioux Falls SD Abiding Savior Free Lutheran Church Sioux Falls SD Living Word Free Lutheran Church Sisseton SD Buffalo Lake Lutheran Church Sisseton SD New Hope Free Lutheran Tripp SD First American Lutheran Church Viborg SD Bethany Lutheran Church Volin SD Trondhjem Lutheran Church Wallace SD Calvary Lutheran Church Waubay SD Egeland Lutheran Church Webster SD Tabor Lutheran Church
291 SOUTHWESTERN Camarillo CA Good Shepherd Lutheran Church El Cajon CA Reformation Lutheran Church Fountain Hills AZ Joy Christian Community Church Honolulu HI Waikiki Beach Gathering Manteca CA United Lutheran Church Mesa AZ Calvary Free Lutheran Church Mesa AZ The Source Montebello CA Cross and Crown Lutheran Church Nogales AZ Triumph Evangelical Lutheran Church Oceanside CA Community Lutheran Church Patterson CA Our Saviour’s Lutheran Church Salinas CA St. Ansgar’s Lutheran Church WEST NO/DAKOTA EAST MONTANA Beulah ND Prince Of Peace Lutheran Church Bismarck ND Calvary Free Lutheran Church Brockton MT Faith Free Lutheran Church Culbertson MT Bethel Community Church Dickinson ND Our Saviour’s Lutheran Church Dodge ND St. Paul Lutheran Church of Dodge Golden Valley ND Golgotha Lutheran Church Harvey ND Trinity Bethany Lutheran Church Minot ND Bethel Free Lutheran Church Mott ND Trinity Lutheran Church New Leipzig ND Immanuel Lutheran Church Stanley ND First English Lutheran Of Lostwood Stanley ND Our Savior’s Free Lutheran Church Taylor ND Taylor Lutheran Church Tioga ND Beaver Creek Lutheran Church Tioga ND Zion Lutheran Church Williston ND Emmanuel Free Lutheran Church WEST CENTRAL MINNESOTA (formerly SW Central MN) Brainerd MN Good Shepherd Free Lutheran Church Brandon MN Chippewa Lutheran Church Clinton MN Elim Lutheran Church Dalton MN Kvam Free Lutheran Church Dalton MN Zion/Sarpsborg Lutheran Church Fergus Falls MN Calvary Free Lutheran Church Glenwood MN Scandia Lutheran Church Glyndon MN Maranatha Free Lutheran Church Ortonville MN Abiding Faith Free Lutheran Church Sebeka MN Bethany Free Lutheran Blue Grass Spicer MN Green Lake Lutheran Church Starbuck MN Minnewaska Lutheran Church Sunburg MN Sunburg Free Lutheran Church Ulen MN Maranatha Free Lutheran Church of Ulen Underwood MN Tordenskjold Free Lutheran Church Upsala MN Word Of Life Free Lutheran Church Wadena MN Zion Free Lutheran Church CANADA Black Diamond AB Foothills Bible Fellowship Chaplin SK Chaplin Lutheran Church Cranbrook BC Mount Zion Elbow SK Bethel Lutheran Church Elkford BC Immanuel Enderby BC Emmanuel Lutheran Church Fernie BC Trinity Lutheran Frontier SK Bethel Lutheran Church Hawarden SK Bethlehem Lutheran Church Invermere BC St. Peter’s Lutheran of Invermere Kimberly BC Holy Cross Lake Alma SK Faith Free Lutheran Church Mortlach SK Bethany Lutheran Church Vernon BC Living Word Lutheran Church 292 CONFERENCE ELECTION PROCEDURES THE ECCLESIASTICAL BALLOT: For the election of AFLC Officers
1. The first ballot is the nominating ballot. Each voting member at the conference may place in nomination the person of his choosing. 2. Only persons whose names appear on the first ballot are eligible for consideration on further ballots. 3. Any person receiving 75 percent or more of total votes cast on the first ballot is automatically elected. On subsequent ballots, only a simple majority of the total votes cast is required for election. 4. Incumbents who have served three or more terms must receive 75 percent of the total votes cast to be elected. Such an incumbent may continue in the balloting until two names remain. At this point the incumbent’s name would be dropped unless elected by 75 percent of the votes cast, and a new nominating ballot would be cast. 5. All persons receiving 10 percent or less of the total votes cast on the second ballot shall be dropped from consideration on the next ballot, except in those cases where only one nominee receives more than 10 percent of the votes cast; in such cases only the nominee receiving the fewest votes shall be dropped from further consideration. The person receiving the least number of votes on the third and subsequent ballots shall be dropped from further consideration. 6. For all other elections, nominations shall be presented by the Nominations Committee and may also be offered from the floor. A simple majority of votes cast is required for election. On the second and subsequent ballots, the person receiving the least number of votes shall be dropped from further consideration.
The conference election procedures were approved by the 1990 Annual Conference and clarified by the Coordinating Committee in May, 2001, adding to #4 the words “and a new nominating ballot would be cast.”
293 AFLC RESOLUTIONS FOR LIFE AND MARRIAGE SANCTITY OF LIFE RESOLUTIONS Adopted by the 1986 Annual Conference: WHEREAS, the 1977 Annual Conference of the Association of Free Lutheran Congregations resolved to oppose therapeutic abortions as a means of birth control and to encourage each congregation and individual to protest in writing to their respective legislative officials; and WHEREAS, the 1978 Annual Conference resolved to continue to oppose the sin of abortion; and WHEREAS, the 1980 Annual Conference reaffirmed the “conservative stand taken by the AFLC based on the Word of God and His Laws concerning the moral issues of our day;” and WHEREAS, the destruction of millions of lives by means of abortion which began with the 1973 Supreme Court decision still continues; therefore BE IT RESOLVED, that the Annual Conference of the Association of Free Lutheran Congregations affirms that, a. the unborn children are persons in the sight of God from the time of conception (Job 10:9-10; Psalm 51:5; 139:13-17; Jeremiah 1:5; Luke 1:41-44); b. the unborn children stand under the protection of God’s command against murder (Genesis 9:6; Exodus 20:13; Numbers 35:33; Acts 7:19; I John 3:15); and BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that we encourage a clear witness on behalf of the sanctity of unborn life, including the support of responsible pro-life groups in our communities, such as “Lutherans for Life,” and BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that we encourage prayerful support for the development of alternatives to abortion programs, providing compassionate help for those in need; BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that we boldly proclaim Law and Gospel, which alone can change the sinful hearts of men and women and turn them from sin to salvation. Adopted by the 1995 Annual Conference: RESOLVED, that the 1995 Annual Conference of the Association of Free Lutheran Congregations reaffirms our biblical convictions that unborn children are persons in the sight of God from the time of conception and stand under the protection of God’s law against murder; and BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the employment of every peaceful and legal avenue to enact laws restoring protection to unborn children be encouraged, while relying on the spiritual resources available to God’s people for fighting the spiritual battle for the sanctity of human life; and BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the conference also expresses its opposition to the violent actions of some abortion opponents, convinced that the violence of abortion will not be overcome by further violence, and that Christians must not take the law into their own hands in opposing evil.
294 Adopted by the 2000 Annual Conference: BE IT RESOLVED, that we affirm the sanctity of human life from conception to natural death; BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that we denounce abortion, including partial birth abortion, infanticide, and euthanasia all as sin and that we pray that these practices would come to an end in our country by losing their personal support as well as any legal sanction; BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that we encourage our congregations to support pro-life organizations like Lutherans For Life and local crisis pregnancy centers with our prayers and giving; and BE IT FINALLY RESOLVED, that we extend a heart and voice of compassion and forgiveness in Christ to those who are experiencing crisis pregnancies or who have been involved in abortion.
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MARRIAGE AND FAMILY RESOLUTIONS Adopted by the 2000 Annual Conference: WHEREAS, the attack against Biblical Christianity is so intense in society today, including a direct assault against the Bible’s teaching on marriage and the family, BE IT RESOLVED, that we as the Association of Free Lutheran Congregations reaffirm our uncompromising stand on God’s Word that marriage is instituted by God to be between one man and one woman. WHEREAS, we live in a culture in which homosexuality is being more aggressively promoted and more broadly accepted, BE IT RESOLVED, that we the Association of Free Lutheran Congregations reaffirm our love in Christ for every person including those involved in the homosexual lifestyle while rejecting their lifestyle itself as sin, BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that we encourage our congregations to pray for and support with their gifts those individuals and organizations seeking to reach and rescue those in a homosexual lifestyle by Biblical means and message.
295 Fundamental Principles Guiding Principles of the Lutheran Free Church and Association of Free Lutheran Congregations since 1897.
1. According to the Word of God, the congregation is the right form of the Kingdom of God on earth.
2. The congregation consists of believers who, by using the means of grace and the spiritual gifts as directed by the Word of God, seek salvation and eternal blessedness for themselves and for their fellow men.
3. According to the New Testament, the congregation needs an external organization with membership roll, election of officers, stated times and places for its gatherings, and other similar provisions.
4. Members of the organized congregation are not, in every instance, believers, and such members often derive false hope from their external connection with the congregation. It is therefore the sacred obligation of the congregation to purify itself by the quickening preaching of the Word of God, by earnest admonition and exhortation, and by expelling the openly sinful and perverse.
5. The congregation directs its own affairs, subject to the authority of the Word and Spirit of God, and acknowledges no other ecclesiastical authority or government above itself.
6. A free congregation esteems and cherishes all the spiritual gifts which the Lord gives for its edification, and seeks to stimulate and encourage their use.
7. A free congregation gladly accepts the mutual assistance which congregations can give one another in the work for the advancement of the Kingdom of God.
8. Such assistance consists partly in the mutual sharings of spiritual gifts among the congregations through conferences, exchange visits, lay activities, etc., whereby congregations are mutually edified, and partly in the voluntary and Spirit-prompted cooperation of congregations for the accomplishing of such tasks as exceed the ability of the individual congregation.
9. Among such tasks may be mentioned specifically the training of pastors,
19 296 distribution of Bibles and other Christian literature, home missions, foreign missions, Jewish missions, deaconess homes, children’s homes and other work of mercy.
10. Free congregations have no right to demand that other congregations shall submit to their opinion, will, judgment, or decision: therefore, domination by a majority of congregations over a minority is to be rejected.
11. Agencies found desirable for conducting the joint activities of congregations, such as conferences, committees, officers, etc., cannot in a Lutheran Free Church impose any obligations or restrictions, exert any compulsions, or lay any burden upon the individual congregation, but have the right only to make recommendations to, and requests of, congregations and individuals.
12. Every free congregation, as well as every individual believer, is constrained by the Spirit of God and by the privileges of Christian love to do good and to work for the salvation of souls and the quickening of the spiritual life, as far as its abilities and power permit. Such free spiritual activity is limited neither by parish nor by synodical boundaries.
20 297 Rules for Work As adopted at the AFLC Annual Conference in 1967.
1. The name of this association shall be “The Association of Free Lutheran Congregations.”
2. Its aim shall be to work toward making Lutheran congregations free and living, so that, according to their calling and ability, they may work in spiritual freedom and autonomy for the cause of the Kingdom of God at home and abroad through such agencies and institutions as the congregations themselves may designate.
3. It endeavors to realize this aim in particular by training men and women for Christian work in and for the congregations, by conducting larger and smaller conferences, by distributing suitable literature, by sending out evangelists, and by any other means which from time to time will be found necessary or advisable.
4. The AFLC consists of congregations which, in their constitutions, unreservedly subscribe to the ancient ecumenical symbols, Luther’s Small Catechism, the Unaltered Augsburg Confession, Fundamental Principles and Rules for Work of the AFLC, and report the same to the secretary of the Coordinating Committee.
5. The AFLC shall hold an Annual Conference which usually opens the evening of the second Wednesday in June and which shall elect the necessary committees and officers and determine what church activities in particular it shall recommend to the congregations.
6. The right to vote in the Annual Conference of the AFLC shall be held by all ordained pastors and lay pastors in regular standing in the AFLC and by all voting members of congregations affiliated with the AFLC. Individual Lutherans who are not members of a Lutheran congregation, but who are interested in supporting the work of the AFLC, may be granted speaking and voting privileges by the Coordinating Committee after said committee has received and approved their credentials. Voting members of other Lutheran congregations may be granted the right to vote in the Annual Conference providing they have at least two (2) weeks previously signed and sent to the secretary of the Annual Conference the special blank provided for that purpose, signifying that they approve the Fundamental Principles and Rules for Work of the AFLC and will work for the aim set forth in paragraph 2 of the Rules for Work.
21 298 7. The officers of the AFLC shall be a president, a vice-president, and a secretary, who shall be chosen from the membership of the AFLC and elected by the Annual Conference. Voting shall be by ballot. a. The president shall be elected for a term of three years and shall devote all of his time to the service of the AFLC. He shall preside at the Annual Conference and shall report to it on the work of the AFLC in general, on church dedications, installations, celebrations, etc. He shall be an advisory member of all boards and committees. He shall assist congregations and pastors by giving counsel and guidance when this is desired, and he shall also, as ordainer, assist the congregations in ordaining men with the proper and adequate training who have been duly called as pastors. His salary shall be determined by the Coordinating Committee and shall be paid out of the AFLC General Fund. b. The vice-president shall be elected for a term of one year and performs the duties of the president in the latter’s absence. c. The secretary shall be elected for a term of one year. He shall keep the minutes of the Annual Conference and is the custodian of the archives. d. The term of office of the officers of the AFLC shall begin October 1 and shall expire September 30. e. The executive officers after having served three (3) consecutive terms can be elected for additional terms only by a three-fourths majority vote.
8. The Annual Conference shall nominate members of the Coordinating Committee. This committee shall consist of seven members: three (3) pastors and four (4) laymen chosen from the membership of the AFLC. The number of those whose terms expire shall determine the number to be nominated by the Annual Conference each year. No member can serve more than two (2) consecutive terms.
9. Duties of the Coordinating Committee. a. The Coordinating Committee shall seek to make known the Fundamental Principles and Rules for Work of the AFLC and further the discussions of the same throughout the congregations, so that the task of the AFLC, in an ever increasing degree, may be more clearly understood and more generally put into practice.
22 299 b. It shall seek to have the congregations as fully and as generally represented at the Annual Conference of the AFLC as possible. c. When desired, it shall assist congregations and pastors by giving counsel and guidance. d. It shall compile parochial statistics and report thereon to the Annual Conference. It shall maintain the clergy and congregational rosters of the AFLC. e. It shall have charge of the AFLC General Fund, from which shall be paid the salaries of the president, secretary, transportation secretary, traveling expenses, and expenses incurred in connection with the Annual Conference. f. It shall elect the editor of the church organ. g. Any duty not assigned to any other committee shall be the responsibility of the Coordinating Committee.
10. The Annual Conference shall nominate members for the following boards and corporations of the AFLC: Coordinating Committee, Board of Trustees and Corporation of the Free Lutheran Theological Seminary, Board and Corporation of Missions, Board of Publications and Parish Education, Youth Board, Stewardship Board, and Benefits Board. The editor of the church organ shall be nominated by the Annual Conference. a. No board member can serve for more than two (2) consecutive terms.
11. Reports shall be given by the following at the Annual Conference of the AFLC: The President, the Coordinating Committee, Board of Missions, Schools, Benefits Board, Board of Publications and Parish Education, Youth Board, Free Lutheran Youth (FLY), special committees elected by the Annual Conference, and by such institutions and activities within the church as may be given permission to report to the Annual Conference.
12. The president and secretary shall constitute the Annual Conference Committee, whose duties shall be: To fix time and place of the Annual Conference in the event that the Annual Conference did not do so at least two years in advance, arrange the program for the Conference, prepare the calendar for the business sessions, and to make any other arrangements that are necessary for the conduct of the Conference. The Conference Committee shall announce the Annual Conference at least two (2) months previous to the date of the meeting. It shall publish an Annual Report of the AFLC.
300 23 13. The manuscript for the Annual Report shall be kept on file by the secretary at least two (2) years after the publication of the report. The president and secretary shall determine how much of the manuscript of the Annual Report shall be kept on permanent file.
14. The secretary shall send notices to all concerned as to resolutions passed by the Annual Conference, election of committees, etc., by September 1.
15. These Rules for Work may be amended in the following manner: A motion to make an amendment shall be presented in writing to the Annual Conference and shall be voted upon at the following Annual Conference. For the adoption of the motion, a two-thirds majority of the ballots cast is required. All amendments must be in agreement with the Fundamental Principles, especially 5 and 10.
16. The Rules for Work of the AFLC shall take precedence over all other orders and decisions in effect.
A Statement on the Historical Situation
“… We speak out of the world view which we have and in the light of the Scriptures as we have read them. We are subject to error and human failing, and our work must be exposed to the test of time… “We have tried to speak in Christian love … we have not wanted to charge others with sinning against their consciences in taking a course unlike ours. We have said, ‘This is what we believe we must do and for these reasons, in the sight of God.’ “We have not cut ourselves off from the Lutheran faith or the Lutheran family. We are ready to work together with our fellow Lutherans when we can do so without compromising the principles mentioned in this statement … We realize that we have no claim to the right of this fellowship from those from whom we outwardly separate now, but for our part will stand ready to act in common witness wherever we can. “… Let us now confess our sins, let us do what we can to heal the wounds, let us be willing to forgive; where we must differ from others, let it be done in love. And if we can go on to think positively about the work we would like to do together in God’s Kingdom, we have the chance of doing something which can have real value in the world and which would carry God’s blessing.”
Presented at the special conference at Thief River Falls, Minnesota, October 1962
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