PRELIMINARY REPORT

2021 SOUTH DAKOTA SYNOD ASSEMBLY JUNE 4-5, 2021 Table of Contents PART I – General Information

Proposed Assembly Agenda ...... 1-2

Synod Assembly Committee and Contributors ...... 3

Synod Directory Synod staff ...... 4 Synod Council ...... 4-5 Committees: Support to Ministries, Candidacy, Consultation, Discipline Evangelical Outreach, and Multicultural ...... 5-8 Representatives on Region III & Churchwide Boards ...... 8

Part II – Bishop and Staff Reports

Report of Presiding Bishop Elizabeth Eaton ...... 9-10

Report of Bishop Constanze Hagmaier ...... 11 Anniversaries, Dedications, Roster Changes (Retirements, Necrology, Resignations, Removal, Ordinations, Transfers, Installations) ...... 12-15

Report of Associate to the Bishop – Rev. Renee Splichal Larson ...... 16 Report of Director of Evangelical Mission – Rev. Jonathan Steiner ...... 17 Report of Youth Gathering Coordinator – Kelsey Lyndoe ...... 18 Report of Director of Pine Ridge Reconciliation Center – Rev. Dan Johnson ...... 20-22 Report of Companion Synods – Nathalie Fida Lassang ...... 23-24

PART III – Regional, Synod Board & Committees

Synod Council – Carla Borchardt, Vice President ...... 25-26 Candidacy Committee – Rev. Elizabeth Pagnotta, Chair ...... 27 Support to Ministries Committee – Rev. Justin Kosec, Chair ...... 28-29 Evangelical Outreach Committee – Rev. Matt Spoden, Chair ...... 30-31 Multicultural Committee – Rev. Rebel Hurd, Chair ...... 32 Region III Archives – Paul A. Daniels ...... 33 ELCA Mission Investment Fund – LuAnn Ferguson ...... 34

PART IV – Sustained and Supported Ministries of the SD Synod

Lutheran Planned Generosity of South Dakota ...... 35 Lutherans Outdoors in South Dakota ...... 36 Lutheran Social Services of South Dakota ...... 37 Augustana University ...... 38-40 St. Dysmas ...... 41 Good Samaritan Society ...... 42 University Lutheran Center ...... 43 Luther Center ...... 44 Northern LuMin ...... 45 LuMin the Hills ...... 46 Heartland Ephphatha Ministries ...... 47 Chapel in the Hills ...... 48 South Dakota Synod Coaching Ministry ...... 49

PART V – Other Reports

Portico Benefit Services ...... 51 ELCA FCU ...... 52 LIRS ...... 53 St. Olaf ...... 54 Gustavus ...... 55 Wartburg College ...... 56

PART VI – References

2022 Proposed Mission Plan ...... 58-59 Synod Constitution Chapter 7 Synod Assembly ...... 60-64 Rules of Parliamentary Procedures ...... Separate Document* Summary of Parliamentary Procedure ...... 65 Synod Conference Map ...... 66 2021 Ballot ...... Separate Document * Report of 2020 Audit ...... Separate Document * Proposed 2022 Compensation Guidelines ...... Separate Document * Resolutions Packet ...... Separate Document *

* Separate Documents will be available for download in the Assembly Guidebook App and at sdsynod.org/assembly.

Proposed Agenda Special Messages from Partner Ministries Introduction to Neighbors in Solidarity Rev. Jonathan Steiner, Director for Evangelical Mission Neighbors in Solidarity Video #1 Announcements & Housekeeping Items

11:45 AM – 1:00 PM Break for Lunch & Conference Caucuses (Conferences needing to caucus must meet in Zoom Breakouts before breaking to lunch)

12:30 PM Resolutions & Committee Nominations Deadline

1:00 PM – 1:55 PM SECOND PLENARY SESSION Introduce Keynote Speaker Willette Capers Bishop Constanze Hagmaier Keynote Presentation – Willette Capers, Augustana University Breakout Rooms – 10-minute presentation debrief

“And who is my neighbor?” – Luke 10:29 5-minute stretch break

2021 Virtual South dakota Synod Assembly 2:00 PM – 3:00 PM THIRD PLENARY SESSION June 4-5, 2021 Credentials Report Special Guest Appearance *All Times Listed are in Central Time State of the Synod – Bishop Constanze Hagmaier Officer Elections – Vice President, Secretary, and Treasurer Thursday – June 3 Resolutions – TBA Elect Synod Council 8:00 PM – 9:00 PM – Ministry Meet & Greet Elect Churchwide Representatives Interact with South Dakota Ministry partners in an Nominating Ballot – Committees to be filled interactive and entertaining format. Hosted virtually by the South Dakota Synod. 3:00 PM – 3:15 PM - Break

3:15 PM – 4:00 PM Friday – June 4 FOURTH PLENARY SESSION Credentials Report 9:00 AM – 10:00 AM – Virtual Check-In & Optional Treasurer’s Report and Mission Plan Presentation

Programming – Erik Gilbertson, Synod Treasurer Resolutions – TBA 10:00 AM – 10:30 AM – OPENING WORSHIP AND Neighbors in Solidarity Video

INSTALLATION OF PASTOR DAN JOHNSON Compensation and Guidelines Conversation

10:40 AM – 11:45 AM 4:00 – 4:10 PM – Break FIRST PLENARY SESSION Welcome, Introductions, and Zoom Orientation – 4:10 PM – 5:00 PM Bishop Constanze Hagmaier Celebration of Rostered Ministers, Anniversaries, Credentials Report and Retirements Adoption of the Rules & Agenda Breakout Rooms – TBA in Guidebook Voting App Practice Announcements & Evening Sending Prayer – State of the ELCA Bishop Constanze Hagmaier & Assembly Chaplain Rev. Amy Reumann, Churchwide Rep. Updated: 5/7/21 May 2021 Page 1 of 66

saturday– June 5 9:00 AM – 9:45 AM – Zoom Room Opens 9:45 AM – 10:15 AM – Morning Worship Installation of Synod Council & Officers

10:15 AM – 10:30 AM – Lutherans Outdoors Presentation

PLENARY 6 10:35 – 11:35 AM Keynote Presentation #2 – Willette Capers

11:35 AM – 11:45 AM – Break

PLENARY 7 11:45 AM – 1:00 PM Credentials Report Bishop Associates Reports – Rev. Renee Splichal Larson & Rev. Jonathan Steiner Youth Gathering Update – Kelsey Lyndoe, Synod Gathering Update Approve Compensation and Guidelines Adopt Mission Plan Special Messages from Partner Ministries World Hunger – Rev. Erika Lehmann Resolutions – TBA Thank Yous and Closing of the Assembly

Synod Council Meets (virtual)

*Agenda Subject to Change

Materials and information can be found online at sdsynod.org/assembly or in the 2021 South Dakota Synod Assembly Guidebook App

Updated: 5/7/21 May 2021 Page 2 of 66

SYNOD ASSEMBLY COMMITTEES & CONTRIBUTORS

ASSEMBLY PLANNING COMMITTEE Rev. Elisa Berndt McCullen, Arlington Rev. Rebel Hurd, Sioux Falls Rev. Justin Kosec, Sioux Falls Rev. Renee Splichal Larson, Synod Staff Rev. Jonathan Steiner, Synod Staff Crystal McCormick, Synod Staff Lois Borchardt, Synod Staff Sawyer Vanden Heuvel, Synod Staff Bishop Constanze Hagmaier

ELECTION COMMITTEE Kelsey Lyndoe, Platte Mara Stillson, Sioux Falls Curt Olson, Sioux Falls Rev. Aaron Matson, Humboldt Rev. Randy Gehring, Sioux Falls Rev. Shelly Gehring, Sioux Falls

RESOLUTIONS COMMITTEE Rev. David Bacon, Flandreau Rev. Becky Senner, Bridgewater/Canova Rev. Kristen Eisele, Gayville/Meckling Rev. Kari Foss, Groton Rev. John Paulson, Wessington Springs Rev. Samuel Kost, Hot Springs Rev. Jonathan Steiner, Synod Staff

CREDENTIALS COMMITTEE Kelsey Lyndoe, Platte Mara Stillson, Sioux Falls Rev. Jon Splichal Larson, Sioux Falls

PARLIAMENTARIAN Brett Koenecke, Pierre

CHAPLAIN Rev. Christy Hallenbeck Ask, The Evangelical Lutheran Good Samaritan Society

PRODUCTION Pinnacle Productions, Sioux Falls

May 2021 Page 3 of 66

SOUTH DAKOTA SYNOD STAFF

Bishop Constanze Hagmaier 605-274-4020 [email protected] Rev. Renee Splichal Larson, Associate to the Bishop 605-274-4022 [email protected] Rev. Jonathan Steiner, Director for Evangelical Mission and 605-906-1197 [email protected] Associate to the Bishop Lois Borchardt, Business Manager 605-274-4025 [email protected] Crystal McCormick, Executive Administrator/Candidacy & 605-274-4024 [email protected] Mobility Office Coordinator Sawyer Vanden Heuvel, Director of Communications 605-274-5035 [email protected] Kelsey Lyndoe, Gathering Synod Coordinator [email protected] Companion Synods [email protected] Kathy McHenry, Lutheran Planned Generosity of SD 605-274-5030 [email protected]

Contact the Synod Office

South Dakota Synod, ELCA Phone: 605-274-4011 Augustana University Campus Fax: 605-274-4028 2001 S Summit Ave E-Mail: [email protected] Sioux Falls SD 57197-0001 Web Site: www.sdsynod.org

2020-2021 Synod Council

Name Conference Ends Hayes, Reverend Ramona Prairie Coteau 2024 Miller, Michael Prairie Coteau 2023 Seefeldt, Pam Prairie Coteau 2023 Braun, Reverend Jackie Medary 2025 Iverson, Jim Medary 2023 Parsley, Valerie Medary 2022 Haugen-Rogers, Jan Crossroads 2021 Nelson, Reverend Layne Crossroads 2022 Poppens, Dave Crossroads 2024 Rieck McFarland, Anne Crossroads 2025 Fowler, Reverend Jim Southeastern 2023 Hansen, Rhonda Southeastern 2024 Stotz, Tom Southeastern 2022 Jung, Stan Northern Plains 2023 Lund, Reverend Dave Northern Plains 2024 May 2021 Page 4 of 66 Wollman, Deacon Kristine Northern Plains 2021 Paulson, John Prairie Rivers 2022 Wall, Cynthia Prairie Rivers 2021 Zell, Terry Prairie Rivers 2024 Chapman, Malcom Bear Butte 2024 Kossow, Reverend Tera Bear Butte 2023 Lange, Bonnie Bear Butte 2022 Dick, Truman Youth 2021 White Eagle, Caylee Youth 2022 Hagmaier, Reverend Constanze Bishop 2025 Borchardt, Carla Vice President 2021 Gilbertson, Erik Treasurer 2022 Vehar, Reverend Jonathan Secretary 2021

2020-2021 Candidacy Committee

Rep. Title First Name Last Name At-Large Reverend Cassandra Lamb At-Large Heather Smith At-Large Bob Scott At-Large Reverend Chris Matson Deacon Deacon Jodi Hanson Former TEEM Reverend LeShea Avery Bear Butte Joel Black Crossroads Reverend Dr Paul Rohde Chair Reverend Elizabeth Pagnotta Northern VACANT Plains Prairie Coteau Jack Holmquest Prairie Rivers Wanda Swenson Southeastern Heidi Fowler Region 3 Deacon Krista Anderson Seminary Rep Reverend Dr Mark Granquist Synod Staff Reverend Renee Splichal Larson Synod Staff Bishop Constanze Hagmaier

Chaplain Reverend Don Salberg

May 2021 Page 5 of 66 2020-2021 Support to Ministries Committee

Conference Title First Name Last Name Bear Butte Reverend Wilbur Holz Bear Butte Deacon Laura Campbell Crossroads Reverend Justin Kosec Crossroads Kari Sorensen Medary Reverend Joshua Knudsen Medary Nancy Moose Northern Plains Reverend Brian Wasmoen Northern Plains Ray Dunn Prairie Coteau Reverend Cheryl Rondeau-Bassett Prairie Coteau Cora Jones Prairie Rivers Reverend Erika Lehmann Prairie Rivers Ione Klinger Southeastern Reverend Erik Olson Southeastern Elayne Lande Staff Bishop Constanze Hagmaier Staff Reverend Renee Splichal Larson

2020-2021 Evangelical Outreach Committee

Conference First Name Last Name Prairie Coteau Rev. Sheila Pohl Prairie Coteau Jim Chilson Medary Rev. Rick Senner Medary Lyndale Borgers Crossroads Rev. Jeff Sorenson Crossroads Mara Stillson Southeastern Rev. Jeff Otterman Southeastern VACANT Northern Rev. Plains Matthew Spoden Northern Plains Waynette Geigle Prairie Rivers Rev. Joanne Nagele Prairie Rivers Bonny Hansen Bear Butte Rev. Wilbur Holz Bear Butte Margie Neugebauer Appointed Kristyne Duffy Invited Rebel Hurd

May 2021 Page 6 of 66 2020-2021 Multi-Cultural Committee

Conference First Name Last Name Prairie Coteau Rev. Janet Miller Prairie Coteau Darlene Bressen Medary Rev. Sue Sinclair Medary Rev. Herb Wounded Head Crossroads Rev. Lynnae Sorensen Crossroads Rebel Hurd Southeastern Rev. Kwen Sanderson Southeastern Nick Oyen Northern Plains Rev. Sara Kayser Northern Plains Bobbi Anderson Prairie Rivers Rev. Nancy Eckels Prairie Rivers Robin Moran Bear Butte Rev. Pam Power Bear Butte Janet Lustig Appointed Rev. Daniel Johnson Appointed Abraham Gayetaye Appointed Rev. Henrique Fleming Invited Rev. Maria Cabello-Salomon

Consultation Committee

John Rasmussen (2025) Sisseton, SD

Larry McHenry (2026) Clark, SD

David Jorgenson (2021) Mitchell, SD

Pastor Justin Neugebauer (2021) Milbank, SD

Pastor Stephan Sandness (2023) Spearfish, SD

May 2021 Page 7 of 66 Discipline Committee

Cindy Hofland (2024) Pastor Becky Piper (2025) Veblen, SD Rapid City, SD

Pastor Elizabeth Pagnotta (2024) Mary Rice O’Donnell (2026) Brandon, SD Redfield, SD

Pastor Tim Lemme (2024) Krisma (Kris) DeWitt (2026) Sioux Falls, SD Watertown, SD

Nick Oyen (2024) Pastor Tera Kossow (2022) Beresford, SD Bison, SD

Bryan Neugebauer (2024) Rose Lauck (2022) Dimock, SD Corsica, SD

Pastor Jeremy Duprey (2025) Pastor Jeff Whillock (2022) Hill City, SD Aberdeen, SD

Representatives on ELCA Church Council from Region III

Bishop Patrica J. Lull Saint Paul Area Synod

Mr. Loren A. Solberg (3E) Bovey, MN

Representative on Luther Seminary Board

3C South Dakota Marge Hegge, Ph.D. Retired Professor of Nursing South Dakota State University

May 2021 Page 8 of 66

“For surely I know the plans I have for you, says the Lord, plans for your welfare and not for harm, to give you a future with hope” (Jeremiah 29:11).

We’ve learned over the past year how resilient we are as church and as people of God. It’s been a time of pain, loss, injustice and uncertainty. It has also been a time of learning, listening and trying new things — stepping out of our comfort zones and into a more digital world. This church persevered in so many ways.

The churchwide organization has been working alongside all expressions and ministries of the ELCA and our partners to provide resources, share stories, engage members and keep our programs alive as we’ve shifted our focus to responding to the pandemic.

For the generosity of this church through its COVID-19 Response Fund, for the remarkable ways in which we connected to one another, and for the innovative approaches so many of you took to engaging your communities in the gospel, I want to say thank you. Thank you for your ingenuity, and for knowing that God has a plan for us and it’s one filled with hope.

As we look to the future, I invite you to dream with me for a moment.

Imagine more people knowing Jesus. Imagine creating communities of love and justice online and in real life. Imagine our online communities and pews filled with new, young and diverse members. Imagine spending more of your time collaborating with others to have a bigger impact in our neighborhoods and in the world.

That is the future I want to build with you. We’ve all experienced God’s ability to see us through challenging times and through new seasons of life. This is an invitation to be part of something that God is doing with and through us. There’s never been a better moment to share the way of Jesus and introduce more people to community, justice and love.

In peace,

Elizabeth A. Eaton Presiding Bishop

May 2021 Page 9 of 66

“Porque yo sé muy bien los planes que tengo para ustedes —afirma el Señor—, planes de bienestar y no de calamidad, a fin de darles un futuro y una esperanza” (Jeremías 29:11).

En el último año hemos aprendido lo resistentes que somos como iglesia y como pueblo de Dios. Ha sido un tiempo de dolor, pérdida, injusticia e incertidumbre. También ha sido un tiempo para aprender, escuchar y probar cosas nuevas que nos hizo salir de nuestras zonas de comodidad y hacia un mundo más digital. Esta iglesia perseveró de tantas maneras.

La organización nacional ha estado trabajando junto a todas las expresiones y ministerios de la ELCA y nuestros socios para proporcionar recursos, compartir historias, involucrar a los miembros y mantener vivos nuestros programas a medida que hemos ido cambiando nuestra manera de responder a la pandemia.

Quiero dar gracias por la generosidad de esta iglesia a través de su Fondo de Respuesta al COVID-19, por las extraordinarias maneras de conectarnos unos con otros, y por los métodos innovadores que muchos de ustedes utilizaron para que sus comunidades pudieran participar en el Evangelio. Gracias por su ingenio, y por saber que Dios tiene un plan para nosotros, y que es un plan lleno de esperanza.

Mientras miramos hacia el futuro, los invito a soñar conmigo por un momento.

Imaginen que más personas conocen a Jesús. Imaginen que creamos comunidades de amor y justicia a través del internet y en la vida real. Imaginen que nuestras comunidades en línea y las bancas de la iglesia están llenas de miembros nuevos, jóvenes y diversos. Imaginen que pasamos más tiempo colaborando con otros para causar un mayor impacto en nuestros vecindarios y en el mundo.

Ese es el futuro que quiero construir con ustedes. Todos hemos experimentado la capacidad de Dios para guiarnos a través de tiempos difíciles y a través de nuevas estaciones de la vida. Esta es una invitación a ser parte de algo que Dios está haciendo con nosotros y a través de nosotros. Nunca ha habido un mejor momento para compartir el camino de Jesús e introducir a más personas a la comunidad, la justicia y el amor.

En paz,

Elizabeth A. Eaton Obispa Presidente

May 2021 Page 10 of 66 REPORT OF THE SYNOD BISHOP

As we are looking towards 2022, I would like to begin with a word of thanks and deep gratitude for your generosity. While the synod’s executive committee faced a 45% decrease in mission support, I am delighted to report that we ended the fiscal year with 98% of all congregational pledges met. That is huge! I interpret this kind of commitment as confident support of the ministry that we undertake together in South Dakota and around the world with our partners in this journey. Therefore, I can come to you with the good news that at the end of the fiscal year we had received $144,000 in extraordinary gifts, which the synod council has designated to be reinvested into synod-wide ministries. These gifts accumulated in three ways: first through the PPP grant, secondly your strong commitment to generously support Siblings in Christ of the South Dakota Synod, synod ministries, and last but not least through a shift in how we undertook our daily operations. Ministry as synod Grace and peace to you in the name of the triune God! – staff in 2020 included less travel and hospitality on the At the 2019 Synod Assembly I told you that I do not have staff’s end. These extraordinary gifts will find their way all the answers, but I promise to “show up” to find back through three venues. $55.000 will become “Seeds answers with you. And that’s exactly what I did. In the Fall for the Next Season.” The money will support a new start of 2019 my associates, Pastor Renee Splichal Larson and in the Bear Butte Conference, the development of a Pastor Jonathan Steiner, and I showed up in the synod’s house church movement in our rural areas where access seven conferences to listen, learn and care. From the 200 to an ELCA congregation is a struggle, and solid support plus responses, we drafted a mission statement: of our rural congregations that are ready to move into Journeying Together in Christ. The foundation of this discovering God’s future for them to take active steps to mission statement is the Bible story about the two live into this future boldly. $25,000 will accompany in disciples and Jesus journeying from Jerusalem to various ways the work of “Partners at the Table”, which Emmaus from Luke 24. We also laid out a five-year namely are our “Neighbors in Solidarity.” The final vision. Part of the vision is to become a synod that is $20,000 is committed to our synod’s vision of becoming emphasizing learning together to better speak and live a synod that learns and grows together. Thank you for our faith in our daily life. The vision also included a bold your generosity and watch for ministry accompaniment step to move into a direction that is committed to moving coming your way through the extraordinary gifts God has being church together into the virtual realm and other provided. Thanks be to God! innovative ways to be the church in our time and age. In closing, please know that I continue to be grateful for Little did we know what would await us in 2020. But I can the trust you invest in my ability to lead the synod as your confidentially say that because we had done all this fine Bishop. I am humbled and grateful for the opportunity. I preliminary work in 2019, we were able to confidently promised you to “show up”, and I continue to stay true to show up the very moment COVID-19 caused death, fear, that commitment. This past year I have had the and confusion. We immediately gathered leaders, opportunity to show up for joyous celebrations, rostered and lay, for weekly zoom meetings to provide challenging conversations, moments of deep despair, and guidance and support. Task forces were assembled anything in between. Please, know that I can only show quickly to respond to needs in the various ministry up in your world if you show up in mine. But I am contexts across the synod. While buildings were closed, convinced that if we show up together, we can do great we uninterruptedly continued synod ministry and kept things in Christ’s name. showing up in traditional, but also non-traditional ways, to consult with congregations and leaders about their Journeying together in Christ with you, ongoing needs. Bishop Constanze Hagmaier

May 2021 Page 11 of 66 CONGREGATION ANNIVERSARIES and ROSTER CHANGES (as of 05/01/21)

Anniversaries and Dedications

150th Anniversary Dalesburg Lutheran Church, Vermillion Brandon Lutheran Church, Brandon Springdale Lutheran Church, Sioux Falls

125th Anniversary St. John’s Lutheran Church, Hot Springs

75th Anniversary Our Savior’s Lutheran Church, Sioux Falls

Installations 06/09/2019 Rev. Rhonda Wellsandt-Zell – Trinity, Mitchell 06/16/2019 Rev. Randall Questad – Baltic/East Nidaros, Baltic 06/30/2019 Rev. David Lund – Peace, Herreid/Pollock, Pollock 07/14/2019 Rev. Tom Stadem – Benton, Crooks/Willow Creek, Dell Rapids 08/17/2019 Rev. Leland Armbright II – Good Shepherd, Aberdeen 08/18/2019 Rev. Jonathan Dolan – American, De Smet 08/21/2019 Rev. Erik Thone – South Canyon, Rapid City 12/22/2019 Rev. Elisa Berndt – Trinity, Arlington 01/18/2020 Deacon Kris Wollman – Lutheran Memorial, Pierre 01/19/2020 Rev. Matthew Spoden – Resurrection, Pierre 02/02/2020 Rev. Dr. Paul Rohde – Springdale, Sioux Falls 02/02/2020 Rev. Cheryl Rondeau-Bassett – Grace, Watertown 03/01/2020 Rev. Steve Palo – Ascension, Brookings 03/02/2020 Rev. Ann Rosendale – Augustana University, Sioux Falls 10/04/2020 Rev. Dr. Aaron Matson – St. Paul, Humboldt 10/04/2020 Rev. Elizabeth Pagnotta – Brandon/Split Rock, Brandon 10/18/2020 Rev. Sonja Pilman – Graceful Hills Parish (Atonement, Rapid City/Piedmont) 11/01/2020 Rev. Jackie Braun – Sinai/Lake Campbell, Volga 11/01/2020 Rev. Mindy Ehrke – Lyman County Parish (Kennebec/Presho/Vivian) 11/07/2020 Rev. Renee Splichal Larson – SD Synod, ELCA 11/07/2020 Rev. Jonathan Steiner – SD Synod, ELCA 12/20/2020 Rev. Kari Foss – Emmanuel, Groton 01/26/2021 Rev. Christy Hallenbeck Ask – Good Samaritan Society, Sioux Falls 01/31/2021 Rev. Aimee Pakan – Brandon/Split Rock, Brandon 02/07/2021 Rev. Laura Phillips – Renner Lutheran, Renner 02/14/2021 Rev. Joel Pakan – East Side, Sioux Falls 03/21/2021 Rev. Cassandra Lamb – SDSU Lutheran Center, Brookings 03/28/2021 Rev. Amy Martinell – Gloria Dei, Sioux Falls 04/11/2021 Rev. Rick Senner – Salem, Parkston 04/18/2021 Rev. Karl Breddin – St. John, Madison 04/18/2021 Rev. Rebecca Breddin – St. John, Madison 05/16/2021 Rev. Jeffrey Otterman – Trinity, Yankton

May 2021 Page 12 of 66 05/23/2021 Rev. Kari Webb – St. James, Belle Fourche 06/04/2021 Rev. Dan Johnson – Pine Ridge Reconciliation Center 06/12/2021 Rev. Rebel Hurd – Church on the Street, Sioux Falls

Ordinations 06/09/2019 Rev. Tom Stadem 06/15/2019 Rev. Randall Questad 06/20/2019 Rev. Erik Thone 07/26/2019 Rev. Matthew Spoden 09/21/2019 Rev. Elisa Berndt 06/27/2020 Rev. Sonja Pilman 01/16/2021 Rev. Joel Pakan 01/16/2021 Rev. Aimee Pakan 01/30/2021 Rev. Rebel Hurd 05/22/2021 Rev. Kari Webb 05/30/2021 Rev. Shadoe Hanson

Necrology 06/27/2019 Rev. Kathryn (Kathy) Hibbert 07/28/2019 Rev. Loren Odland 08/26/2019 Rev. Robert (Bob) Raabe 10/09/2019 Rev. David (Dave) Larson 06/07/2020 Rev. Raymond (Ray) Engh 06/07/2020 Rev. LeRoy Nevin 07/18/2020 Rev. Emil (Moe) Greiner 07/29/2020 Rev. August (Augie) Borchardt 09/05/2020 Rev. Martin Osterloh 11/03/2020 Rev. Lance Lindgren 11/25/2020 Rev. Leon Schulz 11/26/2020 Rev. Bernard (Bernie) Heruth Jr. 12/01/2020 Rev. Richard Gilman 03/13/2021 Rev. James (Jim) Olson 03/18/2021 Rev. N. Richard (Dick) Wiekert

On Leave 10/01/2019 Deacon Susan Marone 10/07/2019 Rev. Jonathan Splichal Larson 04/20/2020 Rev. Samantha (Sami) Johnson 07/13/2020 Rev. Jonathan Hallenbeck Ask 09/01/2020 Rev. Susan (Sue) Sinclair 09/01/2020 Rev. Herb Wounded Head III 10/25/2020 Rev. Nancy Eckels 11/15/2020 Rev. Katherine Olson 12/06/2020 Deacon Laurel Vogl 12/29/2020 Rev. Mark Eliason 01/01/2021 Deacon Katherine Eisele 02/01/2021 Rev. Kari Sansgaard 03/18/2021 Rev. Dirk Hagmaier 04/05/2021 Rev. Rhonda Wellsandt-Zell

May 2021 Page 13 of 66 Retired 11/01/2019 Rev. David Zellmer 01/01/2020 Rev. David (Dave) Wildermuth 03/02/2020 Rev. Agapito (Augie) Aviles 04/01/2020 Rev. Velma Larson 07/01/2020 Rev. Steven (Steve) Martens 08/01/2020 Rev. Suzanne (Suzy) Benidt 10/01/2020 Rev. Gregory (Greg) Wilcox 06/01/2021 Rev. Dr. Lonny (Lon) Kvanli 06/01/2021 Rev. Dr. Heidi Kvanli 06/01/2021 Rev. Hans Sacrison

Removed from Roster 06/01/2019 Rev. Stephen Lauricella

Resigned from Roster 07/14/2020 Rev. James (Jim) Steen

Transferred Into South Dakota 06/25/2019 Rev. Rolfe Johnstad, 2D Grand Canyon 07/01/2019 Rev. Leland Armbright II, 9D Southeastern 10/01/2019 Rev. Renee Splichal Larson, 3A Western North Dakota 06/15/2020 Rev. Agapito (Augie) Aviles, 2C Pacifica 07/01/2020 Rev. Daniel (Dan) Johnson, 4B Central States 08/18/2020 Rev. Jonathan Splichal Larson, 3A Western North Dakota 12/15/2020 Rev. Kari Foss, 4A Nebraska 02/09/2021 Rev. Richard (Paul) Johnston, 5E Western Iowa 02/09/2021 Rev. Lilette Johnston, 5E Western Iowa 02/26/2021 Rev. Marlaine Doidge, 3F Southwestern Minnesota 03/21/2021 Rev. Karl Breddin, 3B Eastern North Dakota 03/21/2021 Rev. Rebecca Breddin, 3B Eastern North Dakota 04/28/2021 Rev. Kari Sansgaard, 1D Northwest Intermountain

Transferred Out of South Dakota 06/01/2019 Rev. Cheryl Matthews, 5L La Crosse Area 08/02/2019 Rev. Peter Strommen, 3G Minneapolis Area 09/01/2019 Rev. William (Bill) Tesch, 3D Northwestern Minnesota 09/03/2019 Rev. Elizabeth (Liz) Dieseth Pearl, 4A Nebraska 09/09/2019 Rev. Paul Hanson, 3A Western North Dakota 09/18/2019 Rev. Arlyn Rusche, 8D Lower Susquehanna 10/01/2019 Rev. Scott Hackler, 2D Grand Canyon 11/18/2019 Rev. Janice (Jan) FitzGibbon, 3H Saint Paul Area 05/10/2020 Rev. Tamara (Tammy) Craker, 1F Montana 07/19/2020 Rev. Kevin Bergeson, 2B Southwest California 08/01/2020 Rev. Daniel (Dan) Nelson, 3G Minneapolis Area 11/15/2020 Rev. Bryan Taffe, 3F Southwestern Minnesota 11/29/2020 Rev. Matthew (Max) Miller, 6B North/West Lower Michigan 12/02/2020 Deacon Cassandra (Sandy) Olson, 2E Rocky Mountain 01/15/2021 Rev. David Schoeld, 1B Northwest Washington

May 2021 Page 14 of 66 01/15/2021 Rev. Nyla Schoeld, 1B Northwest Washington 02/02/2021 Rev. Amber Marten Bergeson, 2B Southwest California 03/02/2021 Rev. Patrick Jenkins, 5C Central/South Illinois 04/01/2021 Rev. Karen Ressel, 5H Northwest Synod of Wisconsin 04/28/2021 Rev. Beverly (Bev) Struckmann, 4B Central States

May 2021 Page 15 of 66 ASSOCIATE TO THE BISHOP REPORT Dear Siblings in Christ, We have 36 people (as of the end of April 2021) in various stages of the candidacy process. All of our candidates for My title is “Associate to the Bishop ministry in the SD Synod have been supported by SD for Candidacy, Congregation, and Synod seminary scholarships, graduating from seminary Rostered Minister Accompaniment.” with little to no seminary debt. This is something to It is my understanding that celebrate! accompaniment demands practice, trust, and humility. It has been my As of the end of April 2021, there are 9 congregations joy to come alongside to listen, who have completed their MSP’s for full-time calls, Rev. Renee Splichal Larson learn, and be in ministry with you formed a call committee, and are ready to receive for the sake of the Gospel. names. Seven of the 9 are interviewing candidates. There are 6 congregations ready to receive candidates’ names Here is some of what I have seen and heard throughout for part-time calls. Five of the 6 are interviewing the past year as year I have journeyed with you in Christ: candidates. We have been working hard to sustain Conferences faithfully gathering to meet, pray, and ministry with our congregations who are in transition, worship together, and to support one another in utilizing area pastors and interims, as well as creative ministry. means, including a couple “virtual interims.” Rostered ministers truly seeking and wondering about God’s call on their lives in current calls and Eight congregations/parishes in the SD Synod served as future ones. official seminary internship sites. Seventeen of our Congregations living in the tender balance of congregations/parishes are served by a Synod emotions when a minister leaves, even as they look Authorized Minister. forward to whoever God calls to minister among them next. My gratitude goes out to all who voluntarily serve in the I have witnessed congregations go their own ways Synod to support ministry. This includes those who serve after being in parish and contractual relationships, on the Synod Council and Executive Committee, only to wonder how God may be leading them to Candidacy Committee, Seminary Debt Reduction partner with others in new and different ways. Committee, and Support to Ministry Committee. We are I have seen elected leadership, rostered ministers, also grateful for two of our leaders who developed an in- and Synod Authorized Ministers, wrestle with the person and on-line confirmation curriculum that could be kinds of unprecedented decisions having to be made used throughout the synod. I am humbled by the in a global pandemic. dedication, faith, and commitment of those who comprise There have been painful ends, and exciting the SD synod and give of their gifts and time for the sake beginnings. of the Gospel. A couple congregations have celebrated their longevity in ministry, even as they have worshipped This synod, its congregations, rostered ministers, leaders, for the last time together. seminarians, and synod staff, are always in my prayers, There have been candidates for ministry enter on my mind, and in my heart. None of us know what the candidacy and discern to leave candidacy. church and world will look and be like in one year, five We have celebrated with seminary graduates and years, or ten. Yet, we trust that God sustains God’s looked forward with them to first call and ordination church. after a long journey of formation for public ministry in the ELCA. I am grateful for the opportunity to be journeying I have sat with rostered ministers who are wondering together in Christ with you. Thank you for receiving me what they signed up for, and others who can’t believe and my gifts, and for making my family and I feel they get to wake up and do the work every day. welcome in this synod. On behalf of my husband, Jon, I have observed the SD Synod being a leader in the and our 2 boys, Gabriel and Elias, and my sister-in-law, ELCA in the ways ministers and congregations are Liz, I give you thanks. supported and connected during this time of pandemic. Thank you to Bishop Constanze, for the call to serve alongside you and the synod staff. May we all come to know Christ’s presence among us, as he sets our hearts May 2021 Page 16 of 66 on fire for ministry. DIRECTOR FOR EVANGELICAL MISSION REPORT Rev. Jonathan steiner

When Bishop Hagmaier asked me to consider serving the First Lutheran African Ministry provided food and hygiene synod in this role, I was certain of a few things. First, there kits in their community, and continues to grow as a would be challenges that I hadn’t imagined. Second, that spiritual leader in the community. Pueblo de Dios also God would be with us through those times. Third, that the provided hygiene kits and food, as well as rent assistance Holy Spirit calls us to incredible things as followers of to prevent eviction of many families. Christ. Especially through the last year, each of those assumptions has proven correct. Pr Maria also spends much of her time working with immigrants in Sioux Falls. The various sites for LuMin at As the synod’s first West River representative, we have colleges & universities in SD adapted as well, often been exploring what a synod presence based out of utilizing technology and focusing on mental health of Rapid City looks likes. Although the pandemic stifled in students. person visits, the deployment West River has been well received as a meaningful connection. This has also In July 2020, the synod formed a Justice Table to allowed for more flexibility in scheduling, just by being confront racism in our state. Since then, the horizon has closer. I look forward to finally celebrating together this expanded to include four passion groups, where anyone new phase of synod life. in the synod can fulfill their Christian calling through Baptism to seek justice and peace. The four groups are As the Director for Evangelical Mission, there has been now Hunger & Poverty, Immigration, LGBTQIA2S+, and lots going on. Our Neighbors in Solidarity ministries have Indigenous Peoples. The Justice Table is an open forum, faced significant challenges, yet also been blessed by for any Christian to participate in this shared work that is generous partnerships across the synod. Woyatan always grounded in scripture. To get involved, please Lutheran Church has completed its building project, the contact me. Wambli Ska Okolakiciyapi. Originally planned as a retreat center, the building was repurposed due to the pandemic, We are excited for a number of new projects in the and will now house numerous programs empowering the synod. We have received a grant from the ELCA to Native community in Rapid City. An anchor church investigate a possible new start ministry in Box Elder, just agreement with Calvary Lutheran Church also provides a outside of Rapid City. We are forming plans for House model for networked ministry that is a blessing to both Church, a way of caring for families and individuals who congregations. The Pine Ridge Reconciliation Center wish to stay part of our wider church after their faced a major challenge with no cultural immersion congregation closes or leaves the ELCA. We are groups visiting in 2020, and has faced a change in preparing for a Rapid City collaborative project, sharing staffing. Yet they have also been innovative, pivoting to new ministry across many congregations. The Holy Spirit meet the needs of the community in a pandemic. We is up to new things! maintain strong ecumenical relationships for this ministry. Church on the Street is toward the end of a one year pilot All of this is made possible by your support. Our program, sharing a pastor with Our Savior’s Lutheran ministries are our ministries together. Your prayers, your Church. The end of the year will mean a new shift again, presence, your gifts, your financial contributions, and your as both ministries discern if this or a new partnership is in love for one another lift us all up. Thank you for being a the future. partner in this incredible work we do together in South Dakota. Peace and blessings to you! May 2021 Page 17 of 66 ELCA Youth Gathering 2022 - BOUNDLESS

Every three years, 30,000 high school youth and their adult leaders from across the ELCA gather for a week of faith formation known as the ELCA Youth Gathering. Through days spent in interactive learning, worship, Bible study, service and fellowship, young people grow in faith and are challenged and inspired to live their faith in their daily lives. An important part of the Gathering’s ministry are the two pre-events, the Multicultural Youth Leadership Event (MYLE), a faith formation and leadership development event primarily for youth of color, and the tAble, a gathering that brings together, blesses and empowers youth with disabilities. While originally scheduled for 2021, the Youth Gathering was postponed due to Covid-19. The Youth Gathering team is working continuously to prepare for 2022 to make this a safe and engaging event for the youth of the ELCA. Below you will find key dates for webinars and registrations. As your SD Synod Youth Gathering Coordinator I will work with you to bring you the resources you need to prepare your youth for the 2022 Youth Gathering.

Webinar Dates - you can register for these at www.https://elca.org/YouthGathering/About/Webinars

May 20, 2021 Volunteering at the Gathering June 17, 2021 Getting Ready Materials July 15, 2021 MYLE (the Multicultural Youth Leadership Event) August 19, 2021 Registration September 16, 2021 the tAble October 21, 2021 Tips & Tricks: Preparing your group and fundraising November 18, 2021 Synod Day January 20, 2022 Safety & Security February 17, 2022 Mass Gathering March 17, 2022 Interactive Learning April 21, 2022 Service Learning May 19, 2022 Tips & Tricks: at the Gathering June 16, 2022 Transportation July 7, 2022 Q&A with Gathering staff August 18, 2022 Post-Gathering: Taking it home

May 2021 Page 18 of 66 Key Dates - always fall on the 22nd of the Month

May 22 - Gathering Volunteer Corps Application opens June 22 - Getting Ready Materials available July 22 - Financial Assistance application opens & Gathering Volunteer Corps Application closes September 22 - Early Bird Registration begins November 22 - Regular Registration opens & Servant Companion Registration begins February 22 - Late Registration begins

There is a lot of information to be found on the Youth Gathering website and I encourage you to spend time checking it all out. The SD Synod will be partnering with LOSD to work with congregations on training, transportation and more.

Thank you for your continued support of our youth and the wonderful opportunities the ELCA Youth Gathering has given for both past, present and future youth.

Kelsey Lyndoe Gathering Synod Coordinator [email protected]

May 2021 Page 19 of 66 March 2021 Pine Ridge Reconciliation Center 51 East Highway 18 PO Box 862 Pine Ridge, SD 57770 605-867-5262 Cell: 605-454-6400 e-mail: [email protected] website: http://www.pineridgereconciliationcenter.org/

It has been an incredible start to my time in Pine Ridge. This is not what I thought I would be doing. And it is amazing. I recently talked about the move with my wife, and I told her I am happier than I have ever been in a job. Ministry is happening at Pine Ridge. We are looking at our mission and trying to decern what God is calling us to be in this time and place. My role is expanding and changing from what I was called to last year. I have more duties and more responsibilities.

General Update: We are working with a wide range of partners on the reservation. Our location allows us to serve many people, and other ministries are working with us to serve the people. Perhaps you have seen the pictures of the shower trailer from Lakota Hope. Other partners are helping us work together and not duplicate efforts. One will be using the Center as a base of operations to have a wide range of people come together to deal with more significant issues effectively.

Lutheran/Lakota Job Corps: The focus of the Job Corp is changing. Yes, they will still be the leading force keeping the Center and other building up and running; we have chosen to take advantage of a couple of generous donations and expand the Job Corp focus. We now have skilled workers that can handle a wide range of projects in the community and at the Center. In the last few months, we have: 1) Repaired a ramp and installed safety rails for an elder 2) Installed doors and windows for another elder 3) Installed a new floor in the Presbyterian church. 4) Installed doors for a family. 5) Updated rooms in the Center with fresh paint and new flooring 6) Updated the lower level of the Center to get ready for an expansion of the Youth Program. 7) Installed plumbing, including a new bathroom in the Presbyterian church. 8) Prepared the Presbyterian Manse for Pastor Asa Wilson and his wife. New floor, paint appliances, etc. 9) Worked with the tribe to hand out food and cleaning supplies.

We have several requests from community members for help with repairs of their homes, and we hope this will allow more people to stay in their homes. We have the trade skills to handle most projects.

We have also begun a mentoring program for young adults, and we are not only giving them job skills. We are working with them on life skills. We currently have four young adults that are working for us in various degrees. Two are “full-time,” and two just started and are only working a couple of days a week. Some of our older Job Corp members are working with young adults daily.

May 2021 Page 20 of 66 Threshold Ministries: We go through Quilts and Hygiene kits as fast as we get them in stock. Currently, we have only a couple of full-size quilts and many baby blankets. Diapers are available, and we received a large donation in November of size 4, 5, and 6 diapers. We have received some odd things and do our best to get the items into the right hands. We work with several partners that have a different focus than we do.

Food is an essential item. In October, we restarted handing out coffee along with the sandwiches. Both are well received. At the suggestion of a Job Corp member, we are now handing out hot food multiple times a week. Additionally, we are now open on Saturday for the lunch service.

Children & Youth: The perpetual stress from the COVID-19 pandemic has intensified the struggles of the youth on Pine Ridge, and the number of suicides in the community has increased. Late last year, we began attending weekly Tribal Action Plan zoom meetings with various organizations on the reservations to address this deep and complex problem. It was from these connections and conversations that we have decided to open our doors on Fridays from 2-6 pm and Saturdays 12- 3:30 pm for youth between 12-24 years old as a place to study and create resumes (with wifi, Chromebooks, and printers available for use), access to social workers and counselors from Behavioral Management Systems, participate in LLJC construction jobs to gain life skills and work experience under mentorship from current LLJC Supervisors, and an opportunity to engage in group talking circles. We have a limit of 10 people in the basement of the Center at a time (due to current Shelter-in-Place policies), so we will expand into the Presbyterian church if more youth seek to join us. Our first day was Friday, 3/19. In addition, we have been working with Ben Bevis from Encircled to develop their model of building networks of support and mentors for youth in this context. It is our hope that this will be an even more personalized and supportive space for the youth who are interested and that their circles of support will continue to be there with them throughout their journey of young adulthood. We will journey with them to begin, develop, and check in during this process. In familiar ministry, we have continued delivering snacks and activities every week on Wednesday, and we are now making up to 150 activities since more youth have expressed interest. Every other Tuesday, we deliver meals to the kids and their families, and we serve close to 300 people on those days. On Thursdays, we have attempted to do zoom check-ins with the pre-teens to do group conversations.

Cultural Immersion: Has you likely know Lindsay left the Center in February. We are hopeful that we can once again host groups this fall. However, we will wait until the tribe says that it is okay.

In the meantime, I am open to Zoom sessions with groups to talk about Pine Ridge and the Native American issues in general.

Pine Ridge Property: Lots of changes are happening around us. Last year the Kitchen of the Center was remodeled to make it more user-friendly. This year, thanks to Sheridan Lutheran's gift in Lincoln NE, we updated the upper sleeping rooms and a little work on the upper bathrooms. With the primary space for Kid’s time being the basement of the Presbyterian church, we are reconfiguring the lower level of the Center's common areas. We have brought in some technology and new furnishing. The room is much more conducive to hosting groups and meetings. We will hold our new teenage ministry in the room.

May 2021 Page 21 of 66

The new roof is on the building and looks great. We have painted the decks and ramps on the property to keep them weather-resistant for years to come. Have you seen pictures of our mural? Artist Focus Smith, and Lakota artist, spent three days at the center spray painting the front of our building. We have received nothing but compliments.

The garage at the parsonage is up and functioning. It looks nice and is well built. Thanks to the Episcopal church for helping get the garage repaired.

Pine Ridge Presbyterian Church: The work on the church continues. WE HAVE A WORKING TOILET IN THE CHURCH! Okay, maybe I am more excited about it than you are. But we have installed a working bathroom in the old church office upstairs at the church—all the work completed by Job Corp members. No outside help was required. This a big step forward.

The new floor is installed. We have mounted a new coffee bar and reconfigured the layout of the sanctuary. Some details are being worked on, and we will need to put flooring on the chancel area. But with the tables and chairs that were purchased with a grant, the place is ready to rock. We look forward to hosting support groups and other meetings in the building.

The Kid’s time area now has a working sink, and hot water is right around the corner. We will begin flooring the Kid’s time area in the coming weeks. We solved the heat issue with a new furnace and new vents put into the lower level. We closed off the venting system that was open to the outside and thus bringing in the cold air.

Worship is now meeting in the sanctuary on the 1st and 3rd Sundays of the month. We worship at Makasan on the 2nd and 4th Sundays. We are practicing proper safety precautions. Our partner Ruby provides a sack lunch following worship.

Holy Cross Episcopal Church: My parsonage is on the grounds of Holy Cross. The Episcopal Church also contributes to the salary of the Youth Position. Recently the Priest that covered Holy Cross and eight other Episcopal churches took a call in Virginia. I am leading worship at Holy Cross on the 1st and 3rd Sundays. On Easter Sunday, we had 30 people and two baptisms.

I have become the property guy for the Church, Fellowship Hall, and the parsonage. I do work with the Episcopal synod on significant issues. Recently the fellowship hall has reopened to allow funerals and wakes.

We are doing our best to adapt and continue to serve. There is a spirit here; God is up to something.

Blessings on all you do,

Pastor Dan Johnson Director, Lutheran/Lakota Shared Ministries Pine Ridge Reconciliation Center South Dakota Synod, ELCA

May 2021 Page 22 of 66 Companion Synod Report For South Dakota Synod Assembly April 2021

Dear brothers and sisters in Christ,

In October 2020 I joyfully answered the call to serve as South Dakota’s Companion Synod Coordinator. While serving it became evident to me that in spite of the challenges that came with the pandemic, the Companion Synod Ministry continued to grow. Also, as the newest member of the companion synod committee, I gained an appreciation for the work that our Synod does through this ministry. The committee members are extremely dedicated and determined to accomplish our mission of accompaniment to our sister churches in Cameroon and Nicaragua.

Although there have been no travels involved over the past year, we have continued to journey together in Christ with our siblings in Cameroon and Nicaragua with the use of technology. In November 2020, we learned about the devastating effects of two major hurricanes in Nicaragua. Our synod’s missionary to Nicaragua, Pastor Soliette, shared with us that in addition to the pandemic, the hurricanes have worsened living conditions of Nicaraguans. Most of their subsistence crops were destroyed, and this affected not only future nourishment but the immediate food supply in the country. Our Synod immediately engaged in a “Seeds of Hope for Nicaragua” campaign. We were able to raise $36,954.03, which is more than double the $14,000 we had had set out to raise. We continue to receive money from donors for this project. The money is sent to assist our siblings in Nicaragua with food and other needs that resulted from the effects of the hurricanes.

In December 2020 we learned from Bishop Victoria of ILFE that some ministries of the Lutheran Church in Nicaragua were unable to continue effectively due to lack of funds. This was because money had to be reallocated from those projects to buy food to feed families. Therefore those ministries suffered as a result. Bishop Victoria appreciated our prayers. She thanked us for our assistance and requested that we continue to support them without travelling to Nicaragua as this would not be helpful at this time. We therefore continue to support our siblings in Nicaragua through prayer, and through partnership with Helping Kids Round First, whose founder travels to Nicaragua regularly.

In January 2021, we received a request from Bishop Ngozo of the EELC. Bishop Ngozo asked for our continual support in building church roofs in Cameroon. In addition to this request, the EELC has asked for our support with COVID-19 relief. There has recently been a surge in infection rate of COVID-19 in Cameroon. While more lives are being affected and lost, there is no plan of vaccine availability anytime soon. We are therefore working together with our partners, Global Health Ministries, to bring assistance for COVID relief to the Lutheran church in Cameroon.

We also learned about the only Lutheran Orphanage in Cameroon. The Lutheran Orphanage in Yaounde needs our assistance in feeding the children it cares for. Although our committee agreed about our wishes to bring assistance to the orphanage, we are still in the process of discerning

May 2021 Page 23 of 66 how to bring our assistance. The reason being that the Orphanage is run independently from the Lutheran Church in Cameroon. Funds would therefore need to be sent directly to the Orphanage, instead of going through the central office of the EELC. We are in conversation with Churchwide regarding the orphanage and we are hopeful for a solution that will allow us to bring our assistance to the orphanage.

While the pandemic has limited our ministry by preventing travels, it has provided ample time for reflection. In February 2021, we entered into a new partnership with Rotary International. This new partnership came as a result of much reflection and discernment. We have learned from other Synods of the ELCA who have worked with the Rotary in different countries. This new partnership will allow us to broaden the assistance we bring to our siblings in Christ, specifically in Nicaragua. Moving forward, our ministry in Nicaragua will be in partnership with the Rotary and Helping Kids Round First.

In addition to a new partnership, we as a committee have reflected on our ministry, specifically on how we may be effective in our accompaniment. We are moving towards restructuring our committee to ensure longevity of the mission to which we are called.

We continue to accompany our sister synods virtually, while following travel guidelines in order to reassess as needed. Although we do not know what the future holds, we continue to put our trust in God who knows all things.

Lastly, I would like to thank you for the opportunity to serve God with you in this call. My prayer is that your faith in God would continue to grow as a result of what you experience in your own lives as well as by the stories you hear from our siblings in Cameroon and Nicaragua.

Even from Germany where I am now reunited with my husband, I continue to journey together in Christ with you,

Nathalie Fida Lassang

May 2021 Page 24 of 66 South Dakota Synod 2020-2021 Synod Council and Vice President Report

Little did we realize the journey that awaited us following the 2019 Synod Assembly. We celebrated the ministry of Bishop Emeritus David Zellmer and the election of Bishop Constanze Hagmaier. We looked forward to ongoing mission and ministry. The COVID-19 pandemic greatly affected our journey.

Jesus’ mandate to love and care for our neighbor guided the Synod Council and Executive Committee as we journeyed faithfully together over the past two years. The Executive Committee began meeting every two weeks in March 2020 via Zoom to receive updates, monitor the synod’s financial status, and provide input and guidance. We strove to be wise and faithful stewards of the funds entrusted to the synod. Initially, the projections for the financial status of the synod were concerning. The synod applied for and received funds through the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP). The PPP loan has since been forgiven.

Thank you to South Dakota Synod members and congregations for your faithfulness in mission support during the trying times of the pandemic! Even during these difficult times, you have found new ways to remain committed to ministry and caring for each other. Your generosity provided funds so that Extraordinary Gifts could be shared with South Dakota Synod congregations, leaders, mission partners, and the nation and world.

Additional highlights of Synod Council and Executive Committee activities and actions on your behalf include: • Appointed bishop installation worship and event planning committees • Celebrated the installation of Bishop Hagmaier • Welcomed Pastor Renee Splichal Larson and Pastor Jonathan Steiner and their families • Approved a deployed synod staff office in Rapid City • Visited the Woyatan congregation and Indian Center during the 2019 Synod Council retreat • Authorized disbursement of Listen! God is Calling appeal funds • Approved distribution of endowment funds • Joined with siblings of several faith traditions at the 2020 in person, and 2021 virtual Interfaith Day at the Capitol in Pierre • Heard reports from staff and mission partners • Approved synod memorial gift and sexual misconduct policies • Approved and disbursed funds for partnership with Red River Resources and congregation technology grants • Issued a letter of call to Pastor Dan Johnson to serve at the Pine Ridge Reconciliation Center • Approved the Lutherans Outdoors Keep the Campfires Burning appeal • Supported the National Native American Boarding School Healing Coalition • Made difficult but prudent decisions to cancel the 2020 Synod Assembly and hold a virtual 2021 Synod Assembly • Visited congregations in 2020 and called congregation leaders in 2021 to express appreciation for ongoing mission support and engaged in conversation about ministry • Authorized disbursement of ELCA COVID and Lutheran Disaster Response grant funds to Neighbors in Solidarity ministries (thank you to Pastor Jonathan Steiner for applying for these grants) • Approved funds for Intercultural Development Inventory (IDI) for members of the Candidacy Committee and candidates for ministry

May 2021 Page 25 of 66 • Celebrated the November 2020 Synod Day • Allocated 2023 Churchwide Assembly voting members to conferences

Thank you to Synod Council members who ended their terms in 2020: Pastor Chris Strohm, Tim Olson, Joyce Vasgaard, Pastor Ryan Gage, and Dennis Thompson; and in 2021: Pastor Jackie Braun, Jan Haugen-Rogers, Deacon Kris Wollman, Cynthia Wall, and Truman Dick. Your commitment to the mission and ministry of the synod and thoughtful engagement in the work of the Synod Council is appreciated as is your willingness to meet via Zoom. Special words of gratitude to members of the Executive Committee for their willingness to meet frequently and their wise leadership in 2020: Bishop Hagmaier, Erik Gilbertson, Pastor Jonathan Vehar, Dennis Thompson, Jan Haugen-Rogers, Tom Stotz, and Pastor Ryan Gage; and in 2021: Bishop Hagmaier, Erik Gilbertson, Pastor Jonathan Vehar, Jan Haugen-Rogers, Tom Stotz, Malcom Chapman, and Pastor Tera Kossow.

Please join me in thanking Erik Gilbertson for his 11 years of faithful service as the synod treasurer. Erik spent countless hours monitoring and analyzing the synod’s finances. His wise guidance is appreciated, especially over the past 15 months.

I am grateful for the leadership and dedication of the synod staff throughout the past two years: Bishop Constanze Hagmaier, Pastor Renee Splichal Larson, Pastor Jonathan Steiner, Crystal McCormick, Sawyer Vanden Heuvel, Lois Borchardt, and Kathy McHenry. They have been committed to furthering the mission and ministry of the South Dakota Synod and sought innovative ways to remain connected to rostered leaders, congregations, and lay members. They ‘showed up’ in numerous ways and daily lived out the mission to journey faithfully with others.

It has been an honor and privilege to serve as the South Dakota Synod Vice President over the past eight years. Thank you for being joyful in hope, patient in affliction, and faithful in prayer. I look forward to continuing the faithful journey with you.

Carla Borchardt

May 2021 Page 26 of 66 South Dakota Candidacy Committee

Synod Assembly Report 2021

The South Dakota Candidacy Committee has the great joy and responsibility of journeying with people who are discerning a call to rostered ministry through the South Dakota Synod. We get to hear call stories, walk alongside the gifts and challenges of ministry, nurture, mentor, and encourage. We get to do this work on behalf of the whole ELCA, as our candidates that complete the process are ordained to serve the whole Church.

It has been my joy to complete 10 years on the Candidacy Committee by serving as the Chair of this committee. We are made up of lay members and rostered leaders from every conference, in partnership with the leadership of Rev. Renee Splichal Larson, Associate to the Bishop. Many thanks to these dedicated people who care deeply about the future of the Church!

We meet four times a year for interviews and time of learning. This year, along with everyone else, we have had the opportunity to be creative in how we meet! I am so grateful for the flexibility and grace we have given each other as we have spent many hours online together! As wonderful as these times have been, I know we are looking forward to spending time with candidates face to face!

We currently have 25 candidates for Rostered Ministry in the South Dakota Synod, all learning from a variety of seminaries. Thanks to the wonderful generosity in the SD synod and partners in ministry, we also get to award scholarships to seminary students, significantly reducing the debt that they have at the end of their graduate education.

As congregations, you are an important partner with those discerning a call to rostered ministry! We encourage you to pray for these students in their discernment and candidacy process. We also encourage you to lift up those in your congregation that possess leadership qualities, that might be sensing a call to ministry and give opportunities and support to potential rostered leaders.

If you have questions about the candidacy process, please reach out to Pastor Renee or explore more online at https://sdsynod.org/interested-candidacy/.

Rev. Elizabeth Pagnotta Chair of the SD Candidacy Committee

May 2021 Page 27 of 66 Support to Ministries: A Report to the 2021 Assembly of the South Dakota Synod respectfully submitted by Justin Kosec, chair

If you want to see where the individual congregation and the regional work of a synod flow together, you’ll find that work in the Support to Ministries Committee (STM). In this team, composed of rostered leaders and laypeople from each conference, we discuss congregation concerns, the detailed care of the synod staff for local ministry contexts, congregations in transition, rostered leaders in transition, and the role of ministers from their formation to their ordination and beyond.

In the last year, STM has increased the frequency with which we meet. This has enabled us to more quickly adapt to the significant challenges of life in a pandemic; and to stay current with the changes in local congregations. Deans meet weekly with the bishop; and the full STM team has shifted from quarterly meetings to bimonthly meetings.

Additionally, as STM reviewed its purpose and its duties, we decided to shift oversight of Lutheran Campus Ministry from STM to the Evangelical Outreach Committee. Additionally, STM secured independent fiscal agency for Lutheran Campus Ministry (with Our Savior’s Lutheran Church in Sioux Falls). This means accounting, donations, and stewardship for Lutheran Campus Ministries in South Dakota will be handled according to best practices.

In each STM meeting, we cover the full range of congregation and pastoral transitions. We discuss rostered leaders who have entered the mobility process. We share progress on ministry site studies and how congregations have progressed through their interview processes. The scope of this work is broad and personal, but we continually reaffirm our mutual commitment to absolute confidentiality in these conversations.

Additionally, STM has assisted synod staff in times of pastoral vacancy, transition, or special concern. The bishop and synod staff often invite STM members to accompany them on visits to congregations so those congregations can receive the best support possible.

STM also considers how we welcome and support our rostered leaders. So we continually revise the Pastor Welcome Booklet and find ways to show appreciation for our rostered leaders.

To support both ministers and congregations, STM has reviewed a number of policies and procedures that the synod can share with every congregation. These include updated sexual harassment policies and anti-discrimination policies so congregations do not have to reinvent these. We also helped implement an exit interview process so synod staff can gather additional feedback from rostered leaders during times of transition.

May 2021 Page 28 of 66 Additionally, STM conducts an annual review of recommended compensation guidelines for ministry leaders. Following excellent work from a task force from Prairie Coteau, STM anticipates making some changes to future task forces to provide guidelines that best represent our whole synod and prove even more useful for congregations and ministers alike.

Lastly, under the leadership of Bishop Hagmaier, STM continues to evaluate the relationships between the synod, local congregations, and those pursuing alternative paths toward ordination, like Synodically Authorized Ministers (SAMs). We hope to provide the most suitable path for every candidate who pursues ordination. And we hope to provide for every congregation that seeks to call a pastor.

Please pray for Bp. Hagmaier, Associate to the Bishop Rev. Splichal-Larson, Associate to the Bishop Rev. Steiner, your synod staff, and the members of STM.

Respectfully,

Rev. Justin Kosec

Chair, Support to Ministries Committee

May 2021 Page 29 of 66 Evangelical Outreach Committee Report for 2021

Due to the impact of COVID-19 the Evangelical Outreach Committee had not met collectively until February 27th, 2021. Our Neighbors in Solidarity ministries and their communities had multiple financial challenges because of the pandemic. There is reason to give thanks this past year because the ELCA’s COVID relief fund shared $30,000 that went almost entirely towards our neighbors in solidarity. We also received $30,000 from Lutheran Disaster Response for those ministries as well, so all together neighbors in solidarity received $60,000 from outside state organizations. Distribution of those funds were given as $1,500 amounts to each ministry site, which was used for each site’s specific needs. Generally speaking, this money was used for pandemic relief (such as operating expenses and salaries), food, hygiene kits, and debt relief. Woyatan Lutheran has been dreaming about how to use the retreat center during the pandemic. It appears that using the space as a community center for native people is the track that they are on. They also are continuing to build relationships with other churches, the Rapid City government, and police force. These relationships are exciting and will hopefully continue to lead to good things in the future. Pine Ridge is still doing ministry during the pandemic. They are doing about 80 food deliveries a week. The Job Corp they established is still ongoing, and have had 2 people “graduate” and are working, so there has been success. The reservation’s needs are constantly changing, and for folks that want to help, the best way to do that is call the ministry directors directly for that information. The heating fund that they have established is doing pretty good because of the overall mild winter, but gifts are always appreciated towards that fund. Pueblo Dios has especially struggled with ethnic specific food needs, and rental assistance. The pandemic has impacted their people’s employment significantly, along with continued challenges around reaching citizenship in the United States. First African Ministries has also had struggles with people needing food and keeping the building open. They have shifted to online ministries such as online Bible studies. Church on the Street has also had struggles with people needing food. There is excitement around 8 other homeless ministries beginning around the country, and Church on the Street is being used as a base model. There was a pilot program that experimented with having two called leaders at Church on the Street; Rev. Shelly Gehring was doing part time work at Church on the Street. There have been positive results from this pilot program, but questions regarding sustainability makes calling two leaders to Church on the Street a challenge. Lutheran Campus Ministry has rebranded as LUMIN. LUMIN is how these ministries have been labeled on a national level, which is why there is a name switch. Each site is doing creative ways to engage the students during the pandemic, including digital ministry.

May 2021 Page 30 of 66 There are some changes with Neighbors in Solidarity going forward. West Side Lutheran in Sioux Falls and Spirit of Faith in Woonsocket are at the end of their grant cycles with the ELCA and will be removed from Neighbors in Solidarity to make room for other ministries. First Lutheran Church in Newell has voted to close, and will be removed from Neighbors in Solidarity. They are celebrating their work, and mourning their closing. With the reorganization at the churchwide level of the ELCA, we are waiting on how they are recognizing ministry sites. Currently, 4 of our 5 major Neighbors in Solidarity are classified as Synodically Authorized Worshipping Communities. The questions about how to classify these ministry sites, if it makes sense for these ministries to become congregations or not, and what does support and language to describe and assist these ministries look like, will be further discussed when churchwide has finished reorganizing. The Synod Assembly theme this year will focus on Neighbors in Solidarity and their stories. Sy. Dysmas and our Companion Synod will be included in the storytelling aspect of Neighbors in Solidarity, but the Evangelical Outreach Committee will not, and has not, been in charge of financial oversight of these ministries. Additionally, there will be a call for each church to add two neighbors in solidarity as line items in their budget. Our hope is that this will cultivate relationships between our churches and neighbors in solidarity. Looking towards the future, there is a ministry site inspection being scheduled in Box Elder, SD, near Rapid City. Box Elder has a growing population due to a new wing of bombers at the Box Elder military base. We are excited for this potential ministry startup. We have been blessed with the opportunity to grow new ministries, and considering how some synods have not had a new mission start in 50 years, we should celebrate how the Holy Spirit has been working in our state. Respectfully submitted, Rev. Matt Spoden

May 2021 Page 31 of 66 Multicultural Committee Synod Assembly Report 2021

I struggled writing this report for you this year. The racial trauma in our homes, our communities, our cities, our state, and our nation is increasingly high. The pain is real. Pervasive racism is actively occurring. And, thankfully, the Gospel of Jesus Christ is a reconciling Gospel. In all honesty, as a heavily white committee, I wasn’t sure our words were relevant enough. Or current enough. Or even enough. But I know God’s words are!

During our last Multicultural Committee (MCC) meeting, we discussed how we might pursue justice in our Multicultural Ministries here in SD. As a committee called to strategize how to be a more multicultural church, advocate, teach, establish new ministries, encourage, and gather resources, we recognize this is ongoing work for all of us. Together, we come to you, as a hurting people of God, and say, Let us “Act justly, and love mercy, and walk humbly with our God.” (Micah 6:8). This is what we are called to do. This is whom we are called to be. We must speak truth to systems of oppression and do the work of educating ourselves, acknowledge privilege, and making reparations.

As a committee, we met a couple of times to dig into this work. We desire deeply to plan a synod-wide growth experience in these areas. We believe it is Holy work to become a more culturally diverse, anti-racist, and just synod. In short, due to the challenges of a pandemic, we have plenty of work left to do. However, this does not negate our conviction to the call. The call we must do together - the work of learning, growing, and becoming allies with those who live marginalized. We boldly encourage you personally to keep doing the work too. You can start here by reading this powerful commentary by Courtney Ariel at https://sojo.net/articles/our- white-friends-desiring-be-allies?fbclid=IwAR0ojSXqMDIUEQY7CNApE- 52SB0SUbtHtxxYnwxxgSEBdXBYI-hw-hkh4_o.

Learn more about the SD Synod’s Multicultural Ministries at https://sdsynod.org/multicultural- ministries/. God’s Blessings on you. As a Synod, we ask you to invite God’s Holy Spirit to guide us in this vital work.

Respectfully submitted, Rev. Rebel Hurd Multicultural Committee Chairperson

May 2021 Page 32 of 66 ELCA Region 3 Archives Report to 2021 Synod Assemblies

Introduction 2021 marks the 33rd year of the ELCA Region 3 Archives. Paul Daniels continues in the archivist position half-time for the 9 synods of ELCA Region 3 and half-time for Luther Seminary. This shared position works well with Luther providing office and storage space as well as access to a much-needed volunteer pool. We also receive IT support from the seminary. Luther profits from hosting the largest of the 9 ELCA regional collections as the materials are available for use by the entire seminary community.

As with so much else this past year, however, everything else was different because of the pandemic. As the statistics below indicate, many more of the Region 3 Archives services to synod offices and congregations were provided virtually. Thankfully, an increasing number of the program’s offerings were already available online. This turned out to be a huge help in the delivery of services.

Additionally, records collection and delivery trips were not done in person, but relied on the USPS and UPS for safe transport of valuable records of all kinds to and from the ELCA Region 3 Archives.

Use of the ELCA Region 3 Archives The Archives website, www.luthersem.edu/archives, continues to work well as our “front door” for promoting archival services to congregations and individuals. Luther Seminary provides IT support for the site and its regular updates. Researchers use the site for information on the collections as well as articles like “Ask the Archivist”, focusing on particular archival topics pertinent to their church settings. Reference uses for the year were:

+Assisted a total of 823 reference patrons in the past year with a range of research interests. The majority (65%) are congregational committees working on records scanning projects, anniversary celebration planning, church history writing and general records care questions. Other significant user groups include synod leadership, church wide offices and individual researchers. +Worked on a regular basis with all 9 synod offices, collecting valuable office records and assisting with retention plans for each office. Unlike years past, though, I dramatically reduced my on-site visits to each of the 9 synod offices. In most cases, email, phone calls, and Zoom meetings took the place of on-site meetings with synod offices staff and with congregational archives committees. These virtual visits were coordinated with 21 Zoom congregational visits throughout the 3 states of ELCA Region 3.

Collection Growth +Collected 226 linear feet of additional synod office records from the 9 offices. These include legal, financial, personnel and program files. Much of this material is stored off-site in space leased from the Iron Mountain Co. +Gathered 152 congregational pieces adding to a collection now totaling 6,678 files. +Received 520 biographical pieces on clergy and lay leaders – total is now 7,702 files. +Assisted 11 closing congregations in Region 3 with records care (scanning) and critical records collection.

Outreach and Education +Distributed 275 copies of “Memory Work: A Guide for Congregational Archives and History” to congregations and individuals. The guide is also accessed frequently via the Region 3 Archives website. +Managed off-site secure storage program via Iron Mountain Co. for permanent care of sensitive files, including candidacy, camping staff, and synod financial records. +Promoted and managed the congregational records scanning program through Mid-America Business Systems.

Professional Development +Daniels is an active member of many professional archival organizations, including the Society of American Archivists, the Midwest Archives Conference, the Twin Cities Archives Roundtable and the Lutheran Historical Conference. Daniels renewed and maintained his professional certification in the Academy of Certified Archivists. Respectfully submitted, Paul A. Daniels, ELCA Region 3 Archivist and Luther Seminary Archivist, 4.1.21

May 2021 Page 33 of 66

Partnering in faith

The Mission Investment Fund, a financial services ministry of the ELCA, provides a strong, stable, faith-based way for individuals, congregations and ministries to achieve their financial goals.

MIF provides a range of investments for individuals, congregations and ministries. We put those investments to work to fund building and renovation loans for congregations and ministries.

The result? Impact investments, with a transformative impact on our communities: Expanded worship spaces … new space for education and youth ministry … much-needed day care centers for working families … industrial-grade kitchens and fellowship halls for community meals.

During the year-long pandemic, MIF provided assistance to investors who needed immediate access to their funds and to borrowers who needed flexibility with their loan payments. We collaborated with our ministry partner, the ELCA Federal Credit Union, to offer expedited loans for congregations, ministries and individuals, as well as Paycheck Protection Program loans for congregations and ministries to keep employees on the payroll and continue operations.

Our capabilities and capacity have never been stronger. At year-end 2020, MIF had 883 loans outstanding, totaling $596.4 million. Investment obligations totaled $543.1 million. With total assets of $773.8 million and net assets of $218.2 million at year-end 2020, MIF maintains a capital ratio of 28.20 percent—positioning MIF in the top tier of well-capitalized church extension funds.

Our steadfast support continues for the members, congregations and ministries of the ELCA and the many ways you care for a world in need. We are honored and humbled to walk alongside you as a trusted partner.

For more information about MIF capabilities, please visit our website, mif.elca.org.

MIF at work in the South Dakota Synod (as of December 31, 2020):  8 Mission Investment Fund loans, with a balance of $4,334,225  $9,310,208 in Mission Investment Fund investment obligations

MIF representative LuAnn Ferguson, Regional Manager, Tel: 651-900-3575; email: [email protected]

Mission Investment Fund | 8765 West Higgins Road | Chicago, Illinois 60631 | Tel: 877-886-3522 | Web: mif.elca.org May 2021 Page 34 of 66 Who we are Lutheran Planned Generosity of South Dakota (LPGSD) is sponsored by the South Dakota Synod, the ELCA Foundation and our Lutheran ministry partners as a gift, offering charitable planning and endowment services to individuals and congregations across the state. We believe in generosity inspired by the desire to make a difference. The information and tools we share are intended to help you create a legacy, not just an estate plan, celebrating and honoring your family and your faith. Tax- wise strategies increase the impact of your gifts by directing more to ministry and less to income, capital gains and estate taxes. Our Ministry Partners: How your generosity makes a difference South Dakota Synod of the ELCA Despite limited travel and in-person meetings, more than $3 million in ELCA Foundation planned and current gifts were made with the assistance of LPGSD in 2020. Augustana University Gifts of stock, real estate, grain, required minimum distributions from retirement accounts, and estate settlements all benefitted congregations Luther Seminary and ministries across South Dakota and around the world. We have seen Lutheran Social Services of multiple examples of how God used one gift to challenge and inspire an South Dakota entire congregation to dream.

Lutherans Outdoors in Your generosity directed toward seminary debt reduction has allowed the South Dakota South Dakota Synod to make direct loan payments on behalf of rostered leaders across the state. Over the past twenty years, more than $1 million Bethel Lutheran Home and have been awarded! Here are just a few samples of the words of Foundation in Madison appreciation shared: Bethesda Home of Aberdeen Because of the Synod's commitment to see first call pastors succeed, I encourage Heartland Ephphatha Deaf Ministry others to consider making South Dakota their first home as a rostered leader. I can't give enough of a "Thank you!" for all who created this wonderful ministry, South Dakota Campus Ministries and for all who work to keep this going. Prison Congregations of America The debt reduction program of the South Dakota Synod represents something much greater than the reduction of my loan payments by 14 years. St. Dysmas of South Dakota It represents the support and care of a community, the generosity of individuals, and the opportunity to freely serve for years to come. Thank you for your work. It makes a huge difference not to worry about our finances every month and save for the future. Just recently I was given the happy news that our final payment was made and my seminary debt was cleared. I am so grateful to all the generous donors who sponsored grants for myself and other in the program. The SD Synod is leading the way in fostering a new generation of pastors with this program. Thank you for everything you have done for me and my family. God Kathy J. McHenry bless you in your continued good work to serve our church and our church Executive Director leaders. 2001 South Summit Avenue How we can help Sioux Falls, SD 57197 If you want your life and your legacy to make a difference, we have ideas. 605.274.5030 If you’ve been told a financial decision will have huge tax implications, we [email protected] have solutions. www.lpgsd.org If you don’t know where to start with your estate plan, we’ll walk you through the process. If you want to create, revive or better understand your congregation’s endowment fund, ask for our help. your life can If your group is interested in an educational presentation, temple talk or worship message, call us.

make a difference Are you ready to make a difference? May 2021 Page 35 of 66

LUTHERANS OUTDOORS 2020 REPORT IN SOUTH DAKOTA PAUL HANSON 2020 SPECIAL EVENTS EXECUTIVE 10,000 + Summer DIRECTOR Couch Series Views If I asked you to think of the sounds you would hear during a busy week of Bible camp , what would you answer? Perhaps laughter. Or voices singing. Or horses neighing. 95 + Virtual What about the smells at camp? One might mention delicious food and fresh rain. Road Runners

And what would you see? Beautiful plains at Klein Ranch. Beautiful hills at Outlaw Ranch. And, beautiful lakeshore at NeSoDak. Bake Sale When campers gather at the sites in June, it will have been twenty- 2,500 Lefse Rounds two months since these sounds, smells, and sights have been & 400 Goodie Trays experienced. Twenty-two long months.

The Lutherans Outdoors' Board of Directors made the difficult 63 Drive Through decision to cancel all programs during 2020 and reaching into 2021. Chef Night Meals The GOOD NEWS is camp will happen this summer! With new health protocols and limited campers each week, camp will happen! The life-giving experience of God’s love will be the focus as 25 + Horse the faith of hundreds of youth and adults will be strengthened. Adoptions YOU are the key reason campers will experience a campfire at the camps.

Canceling programs stopped all program revenue streams. Thus, 140 Tickets Sold many people, perhaps yourself, supported Lutherans Outdoors with many gifts, keeping the ministry able to pay the continuing operating expenses, including staff and utilities.

This support continues into 2021 with the “Keep the Campfires Burning” Appeal. This Appeal is necessary to continue allowing the REVENUE EXPENSE ministry to recover from the pandemic-related revenue shortages. Outlaw Ranch Outlaw Ranch The Appeal covers both standard development efforts that are $136,305 $265,335 needed each year and recovery of lost program income. You will NeSoDak NeSoDak hear more about this during the Lutherans Outdoors Annual $98,259 $220,595 Meeting presentation, which coincides with the SD Synod Assembly. Joy Ranch Joy Ranch $104,935 $528,806 Thank you for your participation in our Appeal and for being raving Klein Ranch Klein Ranch fans of the ministry of Lutherans Outdoors. $28,268 $20,617 I hope that I will see you at camp soon. Admin. Office Admin. Office $1,034,383 $608,347 Be Good! Total: $1,402,150 Total: $1,643,700

May 2021 LOSD.ORG Page 36 of 66 CONNECT WITH US: 800-888-1464 2021 Report to the SD Synod of the ELCA Life Stories Take Shape at LSS

LSS helps to transform the lives of people of all ages, faiths, races and economic status with professional, confidential and affordable services. With vital services offered statewide, LSS touched the lives of those we serve 38,099 times last year. LSS is where life stories take shape. We strive to care for, support and strengthen those in need, bringing clarity, stability and support to people of all ages, families of all kinds and communities of all sizes. “I honestly don’t know what we would be doing without LSS. The extra bit of normalcy is what matters most right now (COVID-19 pandemic). If my daughter didn’t have routine, I think she would be more scared or confused about what is happening.” – first responder parents of children at LSS Childcare & Education Services

LSS has assisted with 4,184 ADOPTIONS SINCE 1920. We are ready for a second century of service.

The COVID-19 pandemic created many challenges. LSS has reacted quickly, safely and compassionately to offer many of our services using telehealth technology. It is a good alternative for individuals and families experiencing overwhelming stress and anxiety associated with separation and isolation.

Clients receiving outpatient counseling experienced a 23% reduction in symptoms from the first session to the fourth session.

LSS continues to improve its capacity to deliver trauma-informed care. 91% of youth in Psychiatric Residential Treatment and 83% of youth in Foster Care showed a reduction in trauma symptoms upon discharge.

85% of clients who received financial counseling reported reduced How Your Gift is Used stress after their session. 88% of clients participating in a debt manage- ment plan successfully completed their payments.

100% of the residents of the New Alternatives Intensive Independent Living Services improved their independent living skills and improved their overall wellness and health.

Youth who participate in the Arise Shelter Care are successful. 90% of youth are discharged to safe and stable housing.

For 100 years, LSS has not just been about looking at one person and trying to help them with their situation, but coming from a bigger, more holistic picture. It’s not just one person’s life today, it’s about what do we do to make things better into the future, for other people.

Betty OldenkampMay 2021 Page 37 of 66 President and CEO OFFICE OF THE PRESIDENT

April 22, 2021

Greetings from Augustana University in Sioux Falls.

I pray this finds you and your families well and looking forward to the joys of summer. May it be a time of rest and renewal following what most of us would describe as the most challenging year of our lifetime.

Augustana University began its 160th academic year last fall under the Viking Flex Plan, which incorporated both face-to-face learning as well as an integrated virtual learning component. The plan was designed and implemented for the health and safety of all of our students, staff and faculty, as well as to create the best possible academic and student life experience on campus.

With a steadfast commitment from everyone, we managed the complexities of the fall semester, made some adjustments for our January term, and are soon to complete the spring semester with 90 percent of our courses being delivered in-person. There surely never has been a year that required us to daily model our five shared core values of Christian, liberal arts, excellence, community and service more than this year.

Augustana is a member of the Network of ELCA Colleges and Universities (NECU) — a group of institutions which share a common belief that “we are called and empowered to serve the neighbor so that all may flourish.” The world needs our graduates, now more than ever.

The Rev. Dr. Paul Rohde preached his last sermon as campus pastor on January 15, 2020, and officially retired from Augustana University on January 31. Following his retirement announcement, I appointed a discernment committee to engage Rev. Ann Rosendale ‘04, who joined Augustana as campus pastor in 2012, and campus-wide constituencies to help determine how Pastor Ann's role and responsibilities might change as she continues to serve and share her gifts with Augustana. Following a very thoughtful and deliberate discernment process, Pastor Ann accepted the offer to serve as our Administrative Campus Pastor. We celebrated her installation on March 2, 2020. Throughout the spring 2020 semester, we were blessed to have Rev. Dr. Andrea DeGroot-Nesdahl, former bishop of the SD Synod, ELCA, serve as part-time campus pastor. Rev. Dr. Mitch Kinsinger, Associate Vice President for Academic Affairs, has been providing some assistance since the start of the fall semester. We are currently interviewing for a half-time interim campus pastor.

Christian faith continues to ground all that we do at AU, with worship as the centerpiece of community life we integrate faith with learning and service. Thanks to the generosity of alumni and friends, the restoration of the tracker pipe organ in the Chapel of Reconciliation was completed this summer. Recent technology upgrades, including two large screens at the front of the chapel, have enhanced the worship experience. Live-streaming daily worship serves as a way to connect with our campus community, as well as alumni and friends near and far. Daily devotionals, written by students, faculty, staff and alumni, are being shared via email with all who subscribe and social media is being utilized as another creative and effective platform for ministry. Led by our student chapel staff, and in consultation with various stakeholders on campus, the Campus Ministry Welcome Statement was recently updated.

May 2021 Page 38 of 66 Students at Augustana enter the university to learn, and leave to serve. Campus Ministry helps students listen to a variety of voices as they discern the needs of the world and their own callings to serve. In the spring of 2020, just before “COVID-19” became part of our vernacular, students traveled to the U.S.-Mexico border to listen and learn from immigrant stories. Proud Augustana alumna Kari Lenander ‘08 serves as executive director of Border Servant Corps and hosted the stay.

Last fall, members of the campus community participated in “With Malice Toward None,” an initiative inspired by the national citizens’ organization Braver Angels, to encourage listening, learning and civil discourse. Augustana, in partnership with Our Savior’s Lutheran Church (Sioux Falls), also welcomed Pastor Lenny Duncan, author of Dear Church, to campus to think with the campus community about how our Christian faith compels us to work to dismantle white supremacy and work toward racial justice. We are grateful for all of the conversations both the initiative and Pastor Duncan’s visit have stirred among us.

Augustana continues to nurture students for serving in church vocations. Year after year we send graduates to seminaries, and into service-year experiences such as Lutheran Volunteer Corps and ELCA Young Adults in Global Mission.

The following are additional key Augustana highlights since our last report:

• In May of 2019, the Augustana softball team won the 2019 Division II Softball National Championship, the second in program history.

• In December of 2019, Augustana University received a unanimous vote of approval from its Board of Trustees to proceed with Viking Bold: The Journey to 2030. Through this comprehensive strategic plan, Augustana strives to enhance its position as a top-ranked regional university in service to our students and to elevate the university’s national profile in service to our alumni, the city of Sioux Falls, and the Upper Great Plains region. The four pillars of the plan are Academics, Enrollment & Strategic Scholarships, Athletics, and Physical Campus & IT, combined with enduring commitments for developing servant leaders.

• In January 2020, the university launched Viking Bold — Augustana’s largest, most comprehensive campaign — to support our bold strategic goals.The seven-year, $175 million campaign, is securing the financial support necessary to achieve the goals outlined in Phase 1 and Phase 2 of the strategic plan.

• Significant achievements to date in our Viking Bold: The Journey to 2030 strategic plan and Viking Bold campaign include: o Established the Center for Interdisciplinary Programs and launched two new programs — medical humanities & society and environmental studies o Established the Sharon Lust School of Education, with Dr. Laurie Daily as the inaugural dean o Established the School of Music, with Dr. Peter Folliard as the inaugural dean o Approved the curriculum for the Doctorate of Physical Therapy program, led by Dr. Matthew Volansky o Launched the Masters of Business Administration (MBA) program, with inaugural director Dr. Anissa Goehring o Established the Midco Media Campus & Midco Production Center and approved the multimedia entrepreneurship major o Announced the Beacom Research Fellows Program, a program of the Augustana Research Institute

May 2021 Page 39 of 66 o Implemented the Canvas learning management system, which was instrumental in delivering the Viking Flex Plan o Launched the Diversity Advocate Certification Program — with 118 graduates to date o Established Augustana Impact Scholarships to provide fully expendable annual scholarship support to students with high financial need o Created athletic administration internships and other programming with an emphasis on female students and students of color o Announced the addition of men's swimming & diving and women’s diving, beginning in the 2021-2022 academic year, and the NCAA emerging sport of women's acrobatics and tumbling, at a date to be determined.

• The Augustana University Class of 2020 Outcomes Report confirmed that 97 percent of 2020 graduates — who completed degrees in August, December and May of the 2019-2020 Academic Year — found employment in their major or chosen field. • Augustana University and the Center for Western Studies hosted the 24th Boe Forum on Public Affairs, featuring keynote speakers Drs. Robert Green and Jamie Metzl, virtually on March 15, 2021. • Augustana football alumnus Kirby Hora ’18 was named a recipient of the 2020 Today's Top 10 Award, presented annually by the NCAA. The award recognizes former student-athletes for their successes on the field, in the classroom and in the community. Hora is the first Augustana student-athlete to receive the NCAA's top honor. • Elizabeth Kiffmeyer ‘22 was named a 2021 Goldwater Scholar, the only student from a South Dakota university to be awarded the scholarship this year

The university continues to be nationally recognized for academic excellence, graduate outcomes and affordability by U.S. News & World Report, Forbes, the Princeton Review, and more. Augustana currently serves more than 1,900 students from 41 states and 24 countries. With more than 100 majors, minors and pre-professional programs for undergraduates — along with graduate degree and continuing education programs — Augustana is committed to enriching lives and fostering development by combining a foundation in the liberal arts with professional skill and advanced study.

On behalf of the Augustana community, thank you for your prayers and support. We deeply value the university’s partnership and our close professional relationships with the South Dakota Synod of the ELCA and its leaders. Thank you for your important work and ministry. May God bless you, your families, and your communities.

Sincerely,

Stephanie Herseth Sandlin President

May 2021 Page 40 of 66 Annual Report to Congregations

St. Dysmas of South Dakota April 2021

St. Dysmas of South Dakota is a Lutheran congregation that worships in two locations. Pastor David Bentz serves as pastor at the Mike Durfee State Prison in Springfield, SD and Pastor Wayne Gallipo serves as pastor at the South Dakota State Penitentiary in Sioux Falls.

St. Dysmas is a powerful ministry that is not only proclaiming the good news of Jesus Christ inside the walls of the prison, it is also a very important part of the lives of the men who worship with us, perhaps more than members of congregations outside the walls of the prison. I have had several men come to me and tell me that the worshiping community at St. Dysmas is what keeps them going and gives them hope as they contend with the challenges of life as an inmate. For some, they have heard the good news for the first time in their life in our worship services. For many their lives have been changed as they experience God’s love and promises freely given to them.

This past year has been challenging for us, as it has for all congregations, due to the COVID 19 pandemic. In mid-March of 2020 the Department of Corrections banned all visitors and volunteers from going into the prisons. Since we could not go inside to lead worship, Pastor Bentz and I produced video worship services that were shown on the prison’s inside video systems. A very limited number of volunteers were allowed back inside in July of 2020 so we were able to resume our worship services in person, although with social distancing restrictions that reduced the number of men allowed into the chapels. We were also told that there could be no congregational singing, no praise band and no choir. Worship services are done using PowerPoint presentations that include worship songs for the men to silently or very quietly sing along with.

The men miss visitors in worship very much and look forward to the day when you will be allowed back in again. Several congregations have called the office asking when they will be allowed back in and we just do not know yet. As soon as we get the word that we can have visitors again we will let you know.

I want to thank all of you for your support of this vital ministry. We appreciate your prayers and financial support. St. Dysmas is a congregation like yours. We do not receive financial support from the synod or the ELCA. Our members do contribute but most make 25 to 40 cents an hour so we depend upon your generous support as individuals and congregations. Know that this ministry is absolutely changing lives. Thank you again for your support.

In Christ, Pastor Wayne Gallipo

May 2021 Page 41 of 66 The Evangelical Lutheran Good Samaritan Society

The Good Samaritan Society is one of the nation’s largest non-profit providers of senior care and services, offering home-based services, skilled nursing and rehabilitation care, assisted living and independent senior housing in 24 states. In 2022, the Society will celebrate 100 years of mission- centered service to seniors and individuals with disabilities. We are honored to provide compassionate services and care to those in our communities who need us.

COVID-19

The senior care industry hasn’t faced a situation as challenging as the COVID-19 pandemic. Through the challenges, we were inspired by the courage and resiliency of our employees, residents and clients. The safety and well-being of our residents remained our top priority. Employees rigorously followed infection prevention protocols, and when family was unable to visit loved ones in person, employees coordinated virtual visits, socially distanced activities, and cared for residents as if they were their own family.

The COVID-19 vaccine has paved the way for safe in-person visits, a massive drop in COVID-19 cases among resident, clients and employees, hugs and hope. We’re grateful to employees, local health care partners and federal pharmacy partners for facilitating this monumental vaccination effort.

To remember and recognize the work of our health care heroes, resiliency of those we serve, and support of our communities, we created a year in review video to share our COVID-19 journey. Watch it here.

Integrated Care Delivery System

In 2019, the Good Samaritan Society and Sanford Health merged to create an integrated care delivery system that provides health care services through the lifespan. After just over two years as a combined organization, we are already seeing how our partnership is helping communities thrive.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, our partnership helped keep Society residents, clients and employees safe. Early on, when supplies and personal protective equipment (PPE) were scarce, Sanford Health’s supply chain team was able to secure the PPE needed to prevent transmission of COVID-19. When COVID-19 testing was difficult to access, the Sanford Health Lab sent testing kits to Society locations across the nation. We also partnered with Sanford Health to deliver life- saving antibody treatments to high-risk residents who were ill with COVID-19.

The benefits of our partnership extend beyond the pandemic. In April, Good Samaritan Society – Sioux Falls Village opened an onsite dialysis den. Residents can now receive dialysis treatment in the comfort of their own home. The dialysis den is the first of its kind in South Dakota, and the first in a Society location. It would not be possible without the partnership of Sanford Health dialysis staff who administer dialysis at the Sioux Falls Village, and were integral in the planning process.

May 2021 Page 42 of 66

The University Lutheran Center is located just of the edge of the campus of South Dakota State University in Brookings. It is a place of extravagant welcome where faith is nurtured in a community of college students. The ULC has the unique opportunity to be church among young adults during the very formatve college experience. Congregatons share these students with us for a brief tme and afer their college years our goal is to send them back into congregatons equipped to be leaders in congregatons. Rev. Casandra Lamb began as our campus pastor on January 1, 2021. Our new ofce manager, Sam McMullen, was hired in February. This team along with four paid student leaders have led the ministry at ULC for the spring semester. Together we have worshipped at 11am on Sunday mornings, received the sacrament of Holy Communion, and shared catered meals each week afer worship. During Lent we met on zoom for a Bible study that centered around themes for the season and a tactle object. In April we volunteered at the Brookings Backpack Program and Habitat for Humanity. We have ofcially reactvated ourselves as a student organizaton on campus. We ended the semester by celebratng with three graduates from 2020 (who didn’t get the opportunity to celebrate last spring), two graduates from 2021, and one soon-to-be graduate that will not be on campus in the fall. Given all the circumstances of the semester we had a wonderful tme together in community at ULC. We are eagerly preparing for the start of the 2021-2022 academic year and are antcipatng what our ministry will look like as we adapt to a new year, new students, and new opportunites. Most importantly, we cannot contnue to do this ministry without your support. So, thank you for your support of ULC and the formatve work that happens here! Please be in contact if there is an opportunity for ULC to share our ministry with you or your congregaton in the months ahead. Beyond that please make sure to connect college students with their local campus ministry, so that they can contnue to be nurtured by being in a faith community with other college students.

Pastor Cassandra Lamb

1404 8th St Brookings, SD 57006 605.692.4880 [email protected]

May 2021 Page 43 of 66 SD Synod Assembly Preliminary Report- April, 2021 Luther Center University of South Dakota

Greetings from the Luther Center campus ministry at the University of South Dakota. It has become my practice to read through my previous reports to the Synod Assembly when preparing to write the latest one. Accordingly, I went looking through my (digital) files, and after several minutes of searching, thought, “Right. Last year was 2020.” And what a year it was. As so many of you did, Pastor Ben and I have spent the last 13 months changing plans, innovating, pivoting, and praying, praying, praying. The pandemic changed almost everything about what campus ministry looked like for us, but one thing that did not change was the Spirit’s abiding presence with us, our students and the community.

With the Luther Center Board’s direction, we kept the building closed for most of the last year. Thankfully, college students were already well-versed in most things virtual, so we connected through Facetime and Snapchat, as well as in small, outdoor gatherings. Our (almost) daily Snapchat devotionals have continued, as has the weekly “Centering” email. We’re grateful to our Ministry Associate, USD student Kylie Doering, for her flexibility and commitment, and for our new Office Manager, Elayne Lande, and her organization, energy and efficiency.

Likewise, we’re thankful for the leaders of the other LuMin Campus Ministries in South Dakota. The last several months have brought more consistent connection with them, and we are enjoying the collaboration and looking forward to continuing to partner with them in serving students across the state and beyond. Our ministry partners also include the Luther Center Board, which has met regularly through Zoom, and has faithfully made decisions about how best to serve students throughout the pandemic. We’re thankful for their input and leadership, as well as for their partnership in discerning where the Spirit is calling the ministry. USD has announced they expect a “normal start” in the fall of 2021, and we are hopeful that a return to in-person activities will be safe and life-giving, for all involved!

Finally, we are grateful for you, the many members of the South Dakota Synod. Thank you for your financial support, prayers and encouragement, and for sharing your students with us. It’s been a weird year, no doubt, and we continue to trust that God can- and God does- work with weird. Thanks for being with us on the journey – through the weird, the wonderful, and all the rest.

Peace,

Pastors Kristen and Ben

May 2021 Page 44 of 66 Greetings from Lutheran Campus Ministry at Northern State University. Throughout the year of social distance and COVID precautions, your campus ministry at NSU was able to maintain and sustain our mission of fellowship fun and faith development on campus.

In fellowship and fun we were able to safely table and interact with students in the student center mall. There we gathered insight from campus life through asking survey questions, offering “s’more” conversations, stepping outside our comfort zones in playing games and challenges. Although time spent at the table is always brief, we connected with students who sought out our table week after week wondering what we were up to.

Faith development dove a bit deeper this year with semester themes of discipleship in the fall and the Sola of the Reformation this spring. Much of our time was spent discussing different perspectives and exploring the details. We learned that through the process of trying to understand other perspectives we actually gain better understanding of what we think and believe.

Engaging our faith and understanding of the world, this spring(via zoom) we completed a study of the book Love Big, Revolutionary Relationships to Heal the World by Rozella Haydee White. Centered on Jesus greatest commandment, we reflected honestly on our awareness, love, and respect not only for God, our neighbors, but also ourselves.

Understanding campus is a small part of a larger community each semester we hosted service projects giving back. In the fall we lead the university departments in our annual food drive supporting the food pantry at Good Shepherd Lutheran Church. In the spring students gathered to assemble appreciation packages for first responders.

With our overall focus this year being on engagement on our campus and beyond. We took opportunity to consider our ministry accessibility and recognition. It was decided that now is the time to adapt and unify our name to fit the university, synod conference, and national network we represent. Therefore, the 2021-22 school year Collegians in Christ’s Service (CICS) will be known as Northern LuMin.

Northern LuMin is beyond grateful for your prayers, guidance, and support.

Sincerely Ann Fortin Lutheran Campus Ministry Director

May 2021 Page 45 of 66 Campus Ministry in Rapid City and Spearfish, like many other things this past year, has looked a bit different! Instead of meeting in person for meals, worship & Bible study, we’ve been meeting with students online for meals. They sign up for groceries, and we deliver them to each household, then we get together online (and small in-person groups for those who don’t have kitchen access) and we teach everyone how to cook the meal. Our “Social Distance Dinners” have allowed people to gather safely, and still be fed - body & soul. This style of meeting has also allowed students who are away from campus (on co-ops & internships) to join in fellowship with the community on a regular basis. In addition, smaller groups, like the SDSMT Yarn Engineers, have been able to meet in person, masked and distanced.

Last summer, our Giving Gardens at The Luther House and The Living Room yielded harvests to feed both students and community members. The gardens also taught students skills beyond their studies, and offered a relaxing hobby. This spring, students are again learning new skills, as we are growing our veggies from seed. The seedlings are already sprouting and looking promising!

Thank you to all of the SD Synod congregations who provide financial support to campus ministry! Even in the midst of a pandemic, we are making connections and building community and faith, and we couldn’t do that without your support! Please keep us in your prayers as we prepare for the next academic year, and let any high school graduates know to look for us on the campus where they will be studying. We’d love to plant seeds, grow community, and feed them - body & soul! Peace, Rachel Nelson Director, LuMin:TheHills Spearfish and Rapid City South Dakota 605-646-3241 [email protected] https://www.luminthehills.org/

May 2021 Page 46 of 66 Heartland Ephphatha Ministry is the ELCA ministry for the deaf and hard of hearing in South Dakota. We are based at Peace Lutheran Church in Sioux Falls, SD.

We provide interpreted worship in American Sign Language at the 9:00 service weekly. We also provide service opportunities and fellowship for our community.

Every other year we join other ministries around the country for a conference. This year’s gathering was canceled because of the pandemic.

We also had to change interpreted worship to accommodate our members. We stream our worship on the Heartland Ephphatha Facebook page.

Many of our members stayed connected by serving on the ELDA board and volunteering for service projects. We also hope to continue ASL classes soon.

If you have any questions about our ministry please contact Jason or Sarah Andera [email protected]

God’s Peace

May 2021 Page 47 of 66

2021 Annual Report to the SD Synod, ELCA Chapel in the Hills 3788 Chapel Lane Rapid City, SD 57702 (605) 342-8281 www.chapel-in-the-hills.org [email protected] The Chapel in the Hills is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit corporation formed to maintain and operate the Chapel in the Hills. We are considered a Special Partnership Ministry of the South Dakota Synod, ELCA. The Chapel and grounds are open to visitors from May 1st to September 30th and during special services and events the remainder of the year. The Chapel in the Hills offers a quiet retreat from the hustle and bustle of vacation and offers a place for tourists and local residents alike to slow down, relax, and enjoy Christ’s presence in a peaceful setting. The Chapel fills a unique niche in the Synod’s evangelism through its ministry to visitors, while sharing our Lutheran heritage and traditions. Visitation remains high, with close to 30,000 visitors annually, coming from every U.S. state and numerous countries. Evening worship services are held throughout the summer, continuing the tradition that began when the Chapel was the home of the Lutheran Vespers radio program. The Chapel continues to host numerous weddings, vow renewals, and other special services and events throughout the year. In addition, we continue to seek ways to extend our mission to the local community and beyond. We are now in our sixth year of hosting ELCA clergy from all over the Synod and country to serve as guest pastors. This program has been very popular with all involved, as our guest pastors share their ministry with our visitors and carry back awareness of the Chapel and our ministry to their own congregations and friends. Volunteerism remains the solid backbone of our ministry at the Chapel in the Hills. We have a very dedicated group of volunteers that staff our gift shop and serve as hosts for our visitors. Without their help, along with youth and other church groups assisting with maintenance projects and special events, we would not be able to continue our ministry. If you should ever feel a call to serve as a volunteer in the gift shop, on a maintenance project, or as a visiting pastor, please don’t hesitate to contact us. Adequate funding is always a concern—and goal—of the Chapel in the Hills board of directors. We have weathered the COVID-19 pandemic in good condition to this point, and we look for continued improvement in 2021. The Chapel was blessed with a generous gift from the estate of Mr. Richard Torgerson, grandson of the original benefactor of the Chapel, Arndt Dahl. Mr. Torgerson’s gift, along with other recent donations, has enabled us to realize our goal of establishing an endowment to provide a secure, permanent source of funding to assist with the maintenance and operation of the Chapel. If you or someone you know feels a call to make a gift to add to our endowment fund, please contact us. Watch for further information on giving opportunities to the Chapel in the months ahead. As we enter our next fifty years of service to residents of the Black Hills and beyond, we ask for your continued prayers and support of this unique ministry in South Dakota. We encourage your congregations to take advantage of all that the Chapel can provide. Come visit us when you are in the Black Hills. We extend an invitation to hold a special worship service, congregational picnic, or other special event at the Chapel. Get together a group of your family and friends and attend an evening worship during the summer. Discover the peace you will find, and then share the news of this special place with others! In Christ’s Love, Brian & Joyce Kringen, Managing Directors

May 2021 Page 48 of 66 SD Synod Coaching Coordinator Team Report – 4/19/21

The SD Synod Coaching Coordinator team of “coaching champions” is comprised of Jamie Duprey, Jackie Bruan, and Rhonda Wellsandt Zell. We have been working together for two years. We meet quarterly, at minimum, to discuss ideas and opportunities to create and cultivate partnerships and pathways for coaching in our synod.

Current State of NC Coaching o The SD Synod coaching cohort has twenty-four (24) Level 1 trained ELCA certified coaches. Of those, sixteen (16) remain active and meet quarterly for information sharing, coaching practice, and support.

o We have several coaches trained in ELCA Coaching Level 2 specialty coaching: one (1) trained in Discipleship coaching, four (4) in Stewardship, and three in (3) Mission Development/Redevelopment.

o Currently we have one coach going through Level 2 Care for Creation certification.

o We have one coach who is now ICF certified at the associate level of certification (ACC) and pursuing the professional certification (PCC) with an emphasis on grief coaching, one who is close to ACC certification, and one actively pursuing the associate level of certification.

Coaching Support and Training o The SD Synod coaching team is in consistent correspondence with Jill Beverlin, Jason O’Neill, and other coordinators across ELCA churchwide.

o Active Status is defined as: - Connecting 3-6 times a year with synodical coaches for support and training - Coaching at least two (2) clients for ten or more hours (total) annually - Following the ICF Core Competencies and Ethical Guidelines - Submit annually a recorded coaching session for review - Four (4) hours minimum per year of continuing education/coach specific training; ELCA Coaching is partnering with Dr. Don Eisenhauer at Coaching at End of Life to provide free continuing ed opportunities

o ELCA Launch Training – enables participants to be certified as Level 1 ELCA coaches. This certification is unique to our denomination and has no standing elsewhere (in the realm of coaching). It is separate from the International Coaching Federation (ICF) credentials. Coach Launch participants are now required to complete an application form with the signature of the bishop. This helps the participant understand and honor that coaching is a “calling” with the intent of supporting advancement of the mission of the synod and larger church.

May 2021 Page 49 of 66 Coaching in the SD Synod o Bishop and associates Renee Splichal Larson and Jonathan Steiner have all been through ELCA Level 1 Coach Launch.

o The synod staff has been most supportive in helping create venues where coaching can be utilized and help advance the mission of the synod.

o Current venues where coaching is offered include: first-call, ELCA World Hunger, ELCA Growing Younger, Coaching Around Stress and Crises.

o Pastor Jonathan Steiner is in conversation with coaching coordinator regarding ways to continue to support leaders through coaching, and to continue broadening partnerships and pathways for coaching in our synod. We are excited to explore what coach training for coaching church councils might look like in the future. Pastor Paul Johnston has connected with our coaching ministry, and we will continue to wonder what it might look like to support both Systems Theory work opportunities for churches and leaders, as well as coaching opportunities.

o We would like to be part of an evaluative process for each of these ministry areas so we can improve and build upon what is learned. We’d like to know: - What has gone well? - Where can we work toward improvement? - What’s next? o In particular, what is the long-term vision for each of these areas? What is the commitment of the synod? How will we work together going forward?

The Challenge o We value the partnership we have with the bishop and her staff. We look forward to continuing our work together to support and empower servant-leaders for Christ in and through the SD Synod – and beyond – as we help those who coach and are coached maximize their God-given gifts and potential.

o The challenge remains to continue to promote and advocate for coaching. Coaching is often perceived to be for those who “need help” or are somehow not performing up to expectations. Clients who undergo the most transformation are, in fact, high performing individuals who want to fully develop their potential and grow more fully into the person God has created them to be.

o We look forward to finding new and creative ways to help rostered and lay leaders discover the power of coaching and how it can help them live more fully into God’s dream for their lives and congregations.

May 2021 Page 50 of 66 Supporting Those Who Serve Now More Than Ever

Portico Benefit Services is a holistic benefits ministry serving those who serve — from rostered ministers and their families to staff at social ministry organizations. We strive to help our members grow their overall well-being.

We could not have predicted this pandemic. But the virtual benefits we’ve introduced before and after its arrival, the benefit adjustments we’ve made since, our successful navigation of volatile financial markets, and the consistency of our customer service have made a powerful difference.

During this pandemic, ELCA benefits are helping to lower stress levels, create safer access to health care, and increase financial flexibility — all to strengthen The Rev. Jeff Thiemann the resilience of those who serve and, by extension, the resilience of this church. President & CEO Building Resilience in 2020

26% 559 49 More Calls to Took a Penalty-Free Sought Student Our Financial Distribution Loan Help Planners Thanks to quick modification Through no-cost counseling During last year’s of our retirement plan rules via our partner, LSS of market volatility and our for 2020. Minnesota Financial introduction of target Counseling. date funds.

3,230 98% 10% Medical Visits Satisfaction With Of Members Via Text New Mental Streamed a Course Through 98point6, our Health Option On topics like resilience, new virtual 24/7 primary Our self-directed online mindfulness, and beating health care service – with program, Learn to Live. burnout via Being, our $0 copay. new wellness video platform.

90% 22 3 .1% Very Satisfied Target Date Funds Annuity Payment With our Customer Care Introduced Increase service — delivered by To help members maintain Received, in these Portico employees an age-appropriate asset mix difficult times, by ELCA working remotely. over time — and better annuitants during 2021. weather volatility.

May 2021 Page 51 of 66 Data as of Dec. 31, 2020; sources available upon request. Availability of and eligibility for benefits will vary. 60-302 (2/2021)

Celebrating our fifth anniversary as a financial ministry of the ELCA

The ELCA Federal Credit Union was founded in 2016 to provide a fuller suite of financial products and services to the members, congregations and ministries of the ELCA. The Credit Union offers a rich variety of products—from savings and checking accounts and CDs … to loans, lines of credit and credit cards. The Credit Union is the first of the ELCA’s financial ministries to offer loans to individuals. Because we exist solely to serve our members, we can offer better rates and lower fees than many traditional banks, and we have demonstrated success in providing significant savings to our borrowers. Our strong online presence allows members to access their funds anytime, anywhere—as consumers expect today.

In the early days of the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020, as congregations and ministries closed their doors, the Credit Union responded swiftly to growing needs for financial assistance. We took the step to become certified by the Small Business Administration to provide loans through the Paycheck Protection Program, a federal program of the CARES Act. These PPP loans— continuing compensation for pastors and staff and covering other operating expenses during the pandemic—have proved to be a lifeline for congregations and ministries experiencing diminished revenue during this unprecedented time. Cooperating with our financial partner, the Mission Investment Fund of the ELCA, we have already provided more than 350 PPP loans totaling almost $14 million to congregations and ministries across the church. We continue working together to help PPP loan recipients file applications for loan forgiveness.

In 2021, we ushered in the third cohort of participants in the ELCA’s Resourceful Servants program, designed to improve financial wellness and assist rostered leaders in building emergency savings funds. In this matching program, ELCA rostered leaders make ongoing deposits to their Credit Union emergency savings accounts, and our partner MIF matches those funds up to an established amount. Together, we already have served more than 400 rostered ministers who, collectively, have made emergency savings deposits of more than $1 million.

Membership is open to every ELCA member, synod, congregation and ministry—and their employees.

elcafcu.org May 2021 Page 52 of 66 Greetings siblings in Christ of the South Dakota Synod,

It has been a difficult year for all of us. Despite restrictive policy changes and the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic, however, LIRS has remained committed to our biblical mandate to welcome the stranger.

In the last year:  2,782 refugees were welcomed through LIRS affiliates in 23 states.  440 unaccompanied migrant children were served through our foster care services and placed in loving homes during and after legal proceedings.  9,500 asylum seekers received Safe Release and Post Release services at our Southern border.

Even in these darkest of days, thousands of people from across the country partnered with LIRS to express their support for migrants and refugees through our annual programs and advocacy efforts. The compassion of our neighbors gives us hope, and we are proud to report that in the last year:  16,000 holiday cards and 500 gifts were sent to migrant children and families in detention through our annual Hope for the Holidays program.  More than 600 ELCA clergy and lay leaders signed a letter drafted by the ELCA and LIRS urging Congress to work collaboratively to advance comprehensive immigration legislation.  LIRS’ work was featured on national platforms like NPR, the Washington Post, Center for American Progress, Religion News Service, The Christian Century, and Sojourners.

We are especially grateful for the congregations and communities in the South Dakota Synod who have continued their generous and prayerful support. We could not do this work without you.

Now, that work is expanding. In the coming year, the U.S. expects to welcome 125,000 refugees to our shores. LIRS is actively looking to congregations and faith leaders to partner with us in ways big and small, including donations, volunteer work, and participation in our annual programming. Emmaus: Congregational Discernment Network launches this spring for congregations to discern how they can best walk alongside refugees and migrants in their community, and Stand Up Speak Up, coming in Pentecost, is a new interfaith prayer vigil focused on advocacy. We encourage you to stay up to date on opportunities for individual and congregational engagement at the LIRS Action Center, found at www.lirsconnect.org/get_involved

With your support, we will continue to live our mission: witnessing to God’s love for all people, standing with and advocating for migrants and refugees, and transforming communities through ministries of service and justice. Thank you for accompanying LIRS and our migrant and refugee siblings through 2021 and beyond. God bless you.

In peace,

Dr. Kristin Witte Director for Outreach

May 2021 Page 53 of 66 Report to the ELCA Synod Assemblies 2021

In a year that was like no other, St. Olaf College has sustained its mission of challenging students to excel in the liberal arts, examine faith and values, and explore meaningful vocation in an inclusive, globally engaged community nourished by Lutheran tradition. After pivoting to a fully-online program halfway through the Spring 2020 semester, we successfully re-opened the campus in Fall 2020 with a combination of in-person, hybrid, and remote learning. Following guidance from the CDC and the State of Minnesota, we implemented community standards for prevention, health reporting, testing, contact tracing, isolation, and quarantining, which enabled us to remain open throughout the fall as well as during the current spring term.

St. Olaf also has sustained its commitment to meeting the full demonstrated financial need of all admitted students. At present, our 2,909 undergraduates hail from all 50 states and 83 countries, with 21% self- identifying as Lutheran and another 8% as members of denominations in full communion with the ELCA. 24% of the entering class are domestic students of color, 7% are international students, and 20% are first-generation college students. Among our Class of 2020 graduates, 94% participated in an internship, mentored research experience, practicum, or other vocation-related opportunity, and 73% studied off- campus. Pandemic notwithstanding, 95% of our Class of 2020 alumni were employed, working in full-time service projects, or attending graduate school within six months of graduation, consistent with prior years.

Throughout the pandemic, St. Olaf has continued to provide live weekday chapel and Sunday worship (stolaf.edu/multimedia/streams/archive/chapel), shifting from in-person to virtual services during periods of remote learning. The College Ministry team includes two rostered ELCA pastors, an Associate Chaplain for Jewish Life, and an Associate Chaplain for Muslim Life, engaging with students of all backgrounds – including St. Olaf’s ELCA Student Congregation – about faith and life. The college’s weekly Sing For Joy radio program (stolaf.edu/singforjoy/), featuring sacred choral music for the church year, continues to be broadcast on150 U.S., U.K., and African stations, and expanded its online audience as COVID kept so many church doors closed.

St. Olaf’s new Lutheran Center for Faith, Values, and Community (stolaf.edu/lutherancenter/), now in its second year, advances understanding of global Lutheranism in the 21st century, fosters interfaith engagement, and nourishes vocational discernment at every stage of life. Its robust programming features nationally known speakers, symposia, student internships, book reads, workshops, and seminars; many events bring alumni and friends of the college together with current students, faculty, and staff. The Center’s director, Dr. Deanna Thompson ’89, is a nationally recognized expert in Lutheran theology and the church in the digital age, and has emerged as a thought leader on church life in this time of pandemic; her blog posts on topics ranging from virtual communion to racial justice have reached thousands of national and international readers. We invite you to sign up on the Center’s website for periodic updates on its activities and upcoming programs, and to visit the college’s streaming site (stolaf.edu/multimedia/) for live and archived events.

The Lutheran Center now serves as the administrative home of the St. Olaf Conference on Worship, Theology, and the Arts. The Summer 2020 CWTA conference “Scatter the Imagination of Our Hearts” was rescheduled for July 25-28, 2022, keynoted by theologian Willie James Jennings (Yale University Divinity School) and Professor of Homiletics and Liturgics Eunjoo Mary Kim (Iliff School of Theology). A virtual mini-conference introducing selected CWTA themes and speakers will be offered on July 20, 2021 (stolaf.edu/cwta/). The Lutheran Center is also home to the new initiative “Nourishing Vocation: Re-Imagining Congregational Callings in Unimaginable Times,” supported by a $1 million grant from Lilly Endowment, Inc. A search is underway for the director of this exciting new program, which will convene regional and national learning communities of congregational leaders to help congregations gain clarity about their values and missions, explore and better understand the communities that they serve, and draw upon their theological traditions as they adapt ministries to meet changing needs.

We join our prayers with yours as we all consider our callings during and beyond this “unimaginable time.”

David R. Anderson ’74, President

May 2021 Page 54 of 66

• ANNUAL REPORT FROM GUSTAVUS CHURCH RELATIONS — DECEMBER 2020 •

Greetings to you from your partners in ministry at Gustavus Adolphus College! The definition of community at Gustavus has always included the wider ELCA community. The network of institutions and relationships which holds our Lutheran congregations, synods, camps, colleges, seminaries, and social agencies together plays a vital role in nourishing and advancing our collective and important contribution to the world. We all make a greater impact because of this diverse network to which we belong.

The past year has presented challenges that relentlessly moved across our country (and world) while at the same time significantly stretching our respective communities in unprecedented ways. Yet, like no other time have we shared in such an experience as church and college. Common to each of us has been a season of serious grappling with issues ranging from a global pandemic and community health concerns to rising social unrest and concern for equity and unaddressed racial justice to a very contentious election cycle and concern for unity and the wellbeing of our nation.

Through the Gustavus Association of Congregations the Office of Church Relations at Gustavus is connected to over 500 congregations from across the country. These relationships are an important source of Christian faith inspiration and ministry encouragement for the college. This has especially been true during these tumultuous times. As we have looked to you our ministry partners, you are a source of inspiration for how you have creatively adapted to faithfully continue your ministry in your context. Thank you. You are a source of encouragement to us ​ ​ for the humble and genuine ways you have courageously engaged racial justice concerns in your community. Thank ​ you. The Christian love you share to all people and the healing presence of love you seek to embody in a divided ​ community is an inspiring witness and source of hope to us. Thank you. ​ As you gather for congregation annual meetings and synod assemblies, we hope you are inspired by the reminder of the many others who walk alongside you in mission. We sincerely hope we can be a source of Christian faith inspiration, encouragement, and hope for you as well. The Office of Church Relations at Gustavus exists because as a college we live from our Christian faith and desire to be in service to the wider community within which we are rooted. We seek to be a place you might consider as a ministry partner and resource for your congregation’s educational goals and growth.

MARK YOUR 2021 CALENDARS AND JOIN US FOR THESE SPECIAL EVENTS: • Annual Gustavus Association of Congregations Business Meeting Luncheon — APRIL 24, 2021 ​ The Annual Business Meeting of the Gustavus Adolphus College Association of Congregations will gather virtually and feature updates from the Gustavus President and Chair of the Board of Trustees as well as inspiration from Gustavus students. For more information: gustavus.edu/businessmeeting • The Gustavus Academy for Faith, Science, and Ethics — JUNE 19-25, 2021, an exciting resource for high ​ ​ ​ ​ school youth interested in exploring creative alliances between faith and science. The theme for the 2021 Academy is “Who am I? Media, Technology, and Me.” For more information and to nominate a high school student: ​ ​ gustavus.edu/chaplain/academy • Annual Nobel Conference®— OCTOBER 5-6, 2021 “Big Data REvolution.” ​ ​ ​ • Christmas in Christ Chapel— DECEMBER 2-5, 2021 ​ ​ ​

For more information about these events and the many resources we offer congregations, please contact the Office of Church Relations or visit us on-line at: www.gustavus.edu/churchrelations. Thank you for your partnership and ​ ​ ​ prayers!

Rev. Grady St. Dennis College Chaplain/Director of Church Relations

May 2021 Page 55 of 66

2020 Annual Report to the Synods Wartburg College is dedicated to challenging and nurturing students for lives of leadership and service as a spirited expression of their faith and learning.

Just as Wartburg College has overcome trials and tribulations in its 169-year history, so it met head-on the unprecedented challenges of the COVID-19 global pandemic in 2020. Thanks to the resiliency, adaptability, and extraordinary efforts of our faculty and staff, Wartburg responded by adjusting student services, instruction methods, and academic calendars in an environment of mitigated normalcy.

New Vision Statement In February, the Board of Regents approved a new vision statement as part of an ongoing collaborative planning effort involving Regents, faculty, and staff: “Wartburg College is called to be the leading institution in education of the whole person. Together, we create an inclusive community combining diverse curricular and co-curricular experiences to prepare students to be resilient leaders of positive change through service in a complex world.”

Enrollment Despite COVID-19, Fall 2020 enrollment was 1,564 students (the highest since 2014) from 38 U.S. states and a record 61 countries. This number included 117 international students and 199 U.S. students of color including a record 72 Hispanic students. The top five majors are business administration, biology, psychology, music therapy, and elementary education. First-to-second year retention was the highest since 1997 at 83 percent and 87.6 percent overall. More than 25 Christian denominations and seven world religions are represented.

Academic and Co-Curricular Programs • Wartburg received approval from the Higher Learning Commission to offer an online Master of Arts in Leadership starting in Summer 2021. The program leverages the popular leadership minor for undergraduates and builds on the College’s new online graduate leadership certificate. • Three faculty members were named to existing endowed positions: Dr. Abbylynn Helgevold, assistant professor of religion – Board of Regents Distinguished Professor in Ethics; Pamela Ohrt, associate professor of journalism and communication – R.J. McElroy Chair in Communication; and Dr. Nana Quaicoe, assistant professor of economics – James A. Leach Chair in Banking and Monetary Economics. • A $1.2 million gift from David McCartney and James Petersen of Iowa City has created the Grant Price Endowed Archivist position, named for the pioneering Iowa broadcast journalist and former chair of Wartburg’s communication arts department. This marks Wartburg’s 21st endowed faculty or staff position and 8th in the past decade. • Because the pandemic interrupted so many activities in 2020 – and to ensure students receive the full benefit of a Wartburg education – Wartburg will offer a fifth year tuition free for students enrolled full time during the 2020-21 school year. • Construction began on the Meyer Strength & Conditioning Annex to the Wartburg-Waverly Sports & Wellness Center. The current strength and conditioning space will be renovated to create the Wuertz Health & Human Performance Center, which will feature two exercise science laboratories and offices for Department of Health & Human Performance faculty. Mike Murphy ’89 of Ankeny, Board of Regents member and father to three Wartburg student-athletes, made a $1 million gift commitment to the $3.7 million project, slated to open May 2021. • Jack ’82 and Sarah ’82 Salzwedel of Madison, Wis., made a $750,000 challenge gift to spur completion of the last phase of the Outdoor Athletics Facilities project that created new spectator seating at the soccer, baseball, and softball facilities and enhanced the lacrosse/multipurpose field, Max Cross Country Course, and parking areas.

May 2021 Page 56 of 66

Spiritual Life and Campus Ministry • Felecia Boone ’93, diversity, equity, and inclusion consultant for Hennepin County, Minn., was the 2020 Graven Award recipient. The annual award for Christian vocation highlights the powerful and positive effect of a strong sense of Christian vocation as it interfaces with service to community, the church, and the world. Boone is vice president of the Minneapolis Area Synod of the ELCA and is a member of the ELCA Multicultural Leadership Event 2021 core team. • Pastoral Intern Rebecca Baird ’18 completed her clinical pastoral education (CPE) at the University of Colorado Hospital. She continues to work part-time (20-25 hours/week) while taking classes online through Wartburg Theological Seminary’s Collaborative Learning Program. • Wartburg assumed oversight from Wartburg Theological Seminary of the Kern Foundation grant that funds the B.A.-M.Div. Accelerated Ministry Program, now in its third year. Dean of Spiritual Life Rev. Dr. Brian Beckstrom is serving as director. o The program welcomed a cohort of six in Fall 2020 bringing the total number to 15. o O. Jay and Pat Tomson of Mason City have made a lead challenge gift of $200,000 for student scholarships each year since the program was initiated in 2018. o Samantha Pfab ’20 joined the SLCM team in October as program associate to support current students and recruit future cohorts. o Rev. Dr. Kristin Wendland ’00, assistant professor of religion, serves as program academic advisor. o Beckstrom teaches seminar courses on spiritual practices for Christian ministry, discernment, and pastoral identity. • SLCM partnered with several offices across campus, particularly Student Life, to provide care for community members who were sick, respond to increased needs for counseling due to a rise in anxiety, and advance campus-wide diversity, equity, and inclusion efforts. Staff also created online and socially distanced options for campus ministry programming, worship, and other spiritual resources. • Kris Steege, office coordinator in the humanities, joined the SLCM staff in a part-time capacity following the retirement of office assistant Kathy Traetow.

Recognition • Shelby Davis, co-founder of the Davis United World College Scholars Program, received an honorary Doctor of Humane Letters degree from Wartburg in February. Wartburg first partnered with the program in 2007 and since then has enrolled 218 students with Davis-UWC scholarships from 28 countries. • New Board of Regents members include Felecia Boone ’93, diversity, equity, and inclusion consultant for Hennepin County, Minn.; Jim Buchheim ’85, community and social impact officer, American Family Insurance, Madison, Wis.; and Greg Schmitz ’83, president of CVT Group, New Hartford. Bishop Steve Ullestad ’75 stepped off the Board in May upon his retirement. • Devout Lutherans and longtime Wartburg supporters Ed and Rennie Scharlau, both 1961 graduates, received the Wartburg Medal in recognition of sustained service to the College. Ed is a founding board member of Water to Thrive, a faith-based nonprofit dedicated to bringing clean, safe water to rural Africa. Formerly of Austin, Texas, the Scharlaus now reside in Waverly. • Dr. Caryn Riswold, professor of religion and the Mike and Marge McCoy Family Distinguished Chair in Lutheran Heritage and Mission, was elected to a second four-year term on the National Network Board of the Lilly Fellows Program. • President Darrel Colson continues to serve on the board of directors of the Network of ELCA Colleges and Universities (NECU) and on the Council of Independent College’s NetVUE Advisory Board.

Wartburg continues to deliver on a vibrant mission that transforms the entire college community as together we learn, serve, and demonstrate care for each other. Thank you for your prayerful support of our efforts to strengthen Lutheran higher education.

Darrel D. Colson, President May 2021 Page 57 of 66 Proposed 2022 Mission Plan 02/01/2022 - 01/31/2023

Adopted Revised Proposed INCOME 2021 2021 2022 MISSION SUPPORT FROM 1,733,093 1,799,011 1,852,981 CONGREGATIONS

Program Ministry Income Pine Ridge Ministry Income 45,000 45,000 45,000 Other Income Streams SD Synod Mission Support 29,927 28,866 28,866 DEM Support Staff 10,000 10,000 10,000 Interest Income 8,000 10,000 10,000 SDS Transportation LLC Income 5,000 5,000 5,000 SDS Transportation/Plane Income - - - Misc Income 1,000 1,000 1,000

TOTAL INCOME 1,832,020 1,898,877 1,952,847

EXPENSES Adopted Revised Proposed CHURCHWIDE MISSION 2021 2021 2022 Mission Support to ELCA 779,892 809,555 833,842 % of Mission Support 45.0% 45.0% 45.0%

Region III 7,626 7,260 7,260

SHARED MINISTRIES South Dakota Sustained Ministries Campus Ministry 122,177 126,672 130,412 Campus Ministry Capital 1,030 1,030 1,030 Lutheran Planned Giving 58,300 58,300 58,300 Heartland Ephphatha 5,994 6,215 6,398 Youth Ministry 3,605 3,605 3,605 South Dakota Supported Ministries SD Ministries Support 13,467 12,990 12,990 Luther Seminary 69,287 71,836 73,957 Lutheran Social Services 69,287 71,836 73,957 Lutherans Outdoors 34,555 35,826 36,884 Church Colleges 5,994 6,215 6,398 Chapel in the Hills 1 1 1 Good Samaritan Society 1 1 1 Total Shared Ministries 383,698 394,527 403,933

May 2021 Page 58 of 66 Proposed 2022 Mission Plan 02/01/2022 - 01/31/2023

SOUTH DAKOTA SYNOD MINISTRIES Staff Leadership Bishop 90,605 93,323 96,123 Associate Director of Evangelical Mission 6,528 6,006 6,186 Associate Mobility/Candidacy 74,394 76,626 78,925 Bishop/Associate Benefits 78,897 82,367 84,838 SDS Travel 20,000 20,000 21,000 Bishop/Assistants Travel & Cont Ed 16,299 16,300 16,300 Program Ministries Native American Ministry 77,748 93,169 95,730 Synod Youth Gathering Coordinator 6,959 6,959 6,959 Companion Synod Coordinator 12,065 12,065 12,397 Support Staff and Office Support Staff Salaries/Benefits 152,501 155,123 159,736 Resource Center Supplies 300 300 300 Synod Office Expenses 65,559 66,385 66,885 Augustana University 20,949 20,887 20,887 Synod Leadership Synod Council 5,500 1,500 3,000 Support to Ministries Committee 2,100 1,100 2,100 Candidacy Committee 3,750 1,250 2,250 Electronic Communications 1,750 4,000 4,500 Multicultural Ministry Committee 1,550 1,550 1,550 Companion Synods Ministry Committee 200 100 200 Evangelical Outreach Committee 1,350 1,350 1,500 Mission Strategy Table 1,850 1,850 2,000 Outreach Ministries Multicultural Center/Woyatan 16,000 18,600 19,000 Mission Congregation Start-up 3,950 3,950 4,000

Contingency - 2,775 1,446

Subtotal SD Synod Ministries 660,804 687,535 707,812

Total Expense 1,832,020 1,898,877 1,952,847 Net Total 0 0 0

May 2021 Page 59 of 66

CONSTITUTION, BYLAWS AND CONTINUING RESOLUTIONS

September 2019

May 2021 Page 60 of 66

Chapter 7. SYNOD ASSEMBLY

+S7.01. This synod shall have a Synod Assembly, which shall be its highest legislative authority. The powers of the Synod Assembly are limited only by the provisions in the Articles of Incorporation, this constitution and bylaws, the assembly’s own resolutions, and the constitutions and bylaws of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America.

+S7.11. A regular meeting of the Synod Assembly shall be held at least triennially.

S7.11.01. The time and place of the South Dakota Synod Assembly shall be determined by the Synod Council. The time and place the next regular assembly normally shall be announced 12 months prior to the assembly.

S7.12. Special meetings of the Synod Assembly may be called by the bishop with the consent of the Synod Council, and shall be called by the bishop at the request of one-fifth of the voting members of the Synod Assembly.

a. The notice of each special meeting shall define the purpose for which it is to be held. The scope of actions to be taken at such a special meeting shall be limited to the subject matter(s) described in the notice. b. If the special meeting of the Synod Assembly is required for the purpose of electing a successor bishop because of death, resignation, or inability to serve, the special meeting shall be called by the Synod Council after consultation with the presiding bishop of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America.

S7.13. Notice of the time and place of all meetings of the Synod Assembly shall be given by the secretary of this synod.

S7.13.01. Notice of the date, time and place of the meeting of the Synod Assembly shall be published in official publications established by this Synod or mailed to the rostered ministers of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America, and of this synod and congregations, not less than 90 days before the meeting of the Assembly.

South Dakota Synod Constitution, Bylaws and Continuing Resolutions (September 2019) Page 2

May 2021 Page 61 of 66

S7.14. One-half of members of the Synod Assembly shall constitute a quorum.

+S7.21. The membership of the Synod Assembly, of which at least 60 percent of the voting membership shall be composed of lay persons, shall be constituted as follows:

a. All ministers of Word and Sacrament under call on the roster of this synod in attendance at the Synod Assembly shall be voting members.

b. All ministers of Word and Service, under call, on the roster of this synod shall be voting members in the Synod Assembly.

c. A minimum of one lay member elected by each congregation with fewer than 175 baptized members and a minimum of two lay members elected by each congregation with 175 or more baptized members related to this synod, typically one of whom shall be a man and one of whom shall be a woman, shall be voting members. The Synod Council shall establish a formula to provide additional lay representation from congregations on the basis of the number of baptized members in the congregation. The Synod Council shall seek to ensure that at least 45 percent of the lay members of the assembly shall be women and at least 45 percent shall be men.

d. Voting membership shall include the officers of this synod.

S7.21.A07 Any congregation of this synod which elects a 16-21 year old as a voting member shall be granted one additional voting member. Any congregation of this synod which elects a person of color and/or a person whose primary language is other than English as a voting member shall also be granted one additional voting member. The number of lay voting members per congregation is determined by the following scale:

* Baptized ** Lay + 16-21 Year Old + Person of Color Maximum Total Member Voting Member and/or Lay Increments Members Non-English Origin Voting Members 0– 500 2 1 1 4 501 – 1000 3 1 1 5 1001 – 1500 4 1 1 6 1501 – 2000 5 1 1 7 2001 – 2500 6 1 1 8 2501 – 3000 7 1 1 9 3001 – 3500 8 1 1 10 3501 – 4000 9 1 1 11 4001 – 4500 10 1 1 12 4501 – 5000 11 1 1 13 *Figures used are the published baptized membership totals from the most recent South Dakota Synod Handbook. **Goal of a balance of female/male voting members.

S7.21.B17 Rostered ministers of Word and Sacrament from a church body with which a relationship of full communion has been declared and established by a Churchwide Assembly of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America shall be granted the privilege of both voice and vote in the Synod Assembly during the period of called or contracted service in a congregation of this synod, in accord with ELCA churchwide bylaw 8.72.12.

South Dakota Synod Constitution, Bylaws and Continuing Resolutions (September 2019) Page 3

May 2021 Page 62 of 66

S7.21.C17 Rostered ministers of Word and Sacrament serving as interim pastors, under contract to a congregation of this synod, shall be granted the privilege of both voice and vote in the Synod Assembly during the period of contracted service in a congregation of this synod.

S7.21.D17 Synodically Authorized Ministers (SAMs) certified by the South Dakota Synod, under contract to a congregation of this synod, shall be granted the privilege of both voice and vote, as an additional lay member, in the Synod Assembly during the period of contracted service in a congregation of this synod.

+7.21.01. Voting members shall begin serving with the opening of a regular Synod Assembly and shall continue serving until voting members are seated at the next regular Synod Assembly.

†S7.21.02. If a special Synod Assembly is called and voting members at the previous assembly are unable to serve as voting members, where permitted by state law, the congregation through the Congregation Council may elect new members who shall continue to serve until the next Synod Assembly.

S7.22. This synod may establish processes that permit retired rostered ministers, or those designated as disabled, or on leave from call, on the roster of the synod to serve as voting members of the Synod Assembly, consistent with +7.21.c. If the synod does not establish processes to permit the rostered ministers specified above to serve as voting members, they shall have voice but not vote in the meetings of the Synod Assembly.

+S7.23 The presiding bishop of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America and such other official representatives of the churchwide organization this church as may be designated by the presiding bishop, shall also have voice but not vote in the meetings of the Synod Assembly. Like privileges shall be accorded to those additional persons whom the Synod Council shall from time to time designate.

S7.24. Ministers under call on the rosters of this synod shall remain as members of the Synod Assembly so long as they remain under call and so long as their names appear on the rosters of this synod. Lay members of the Synod Assembly representing congregations shall continue as such until replaced by the election of new members or until they have been disqualified by termination of membership. Normally, congregations will hold elections prior to each regular meeting of the Synod Assembly.

+S7.25. Except as otherwise provided in this constitution or in the Constitution, Bylaws, and Continuing Resolutions of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America, each voting member of the Synod Assembly shall be a voting member of a congregation of this synod.

S7.26. This synod may establish processes through the Synod Council that permit representatives of congregations under development and authorized worshiping communities of this synod, which have been authorized under ELCA bylaw 10.02.03., to serve as voting members of the Synod Assembly, consistent with +S7.21.

S7.27. This synod may establish processes through the Synod Council to grant a minister of Word and Sacrament from a church body with which a relationship of full communion has been declared and established by the Churchwide Assembly of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America the privilege of both voice and vote in the Synod Assembly during the period of that minister’s service in a congregation of this church.

S7.28. Duly elected voting members of the Synod Council who are not otherwise voting members of the Synod Assembly under +S7.21. shall be granted the privilege of both voice and vote as members of the Synod Assembly.

South Dakota Synod Constitution, Bylaws and Continuing Resolutions (September 2019) Page 4

May 2021 Page 63 of 66 +S7.31. Proxy and absentee voting shall not be permitted in the transaction of any business of this the Synod Assembly.

S7.32. The Synod Rules of Parliamentary Procedure shall govern the procedure of the Synod Assembly.

S7.33. "Ex-officio" as used herein means membership with full rights of voice and vote unless otherwise expressly limited.

S7.40. Committees of the Synod Assembly

S7.40.10. Credentials Committee S7.40.11. Prior to the Synod Assembly, the Synod Bishop shall appoint three persons to act as a Credentials Committee. This committee shall report when requested on the number of voting members, visitors, advisors, and others in attendance.

S7.40.20. Election Committee S7.40.21. Prior to the Synod Assembly, the Synod Bishop shall appoint three ministers of Word and Sacrament and three laypersons to an Election Committee to supervise elections and announce the results to the Synod Assembly.

S7.40.30. Resolutions Committee S7.40.31. Each conference shall elect one representative to a Resolutions Committee. The Synod Bishop shall appoint two representatives at large, and shall designate the convener of the committee. In the case of a vacancy, the Synod Bishop will appoint a replacement.

S7.40.32. The committee shall elect its own leadership.

S7.40.33. The committee shall receive all resolutions, prepare them, and make recommendations on them in accordance with the Synod Rules of Parliamentary Procedure for transmission to the Synod Assembly.

S7.40.34. The committee shall draft such resolutions as it is instructed to draft by the Synod Assembly, and may draft others it deems necessary.

S7.50. Conference Caucus S7.50.10. The members of the Synod Assembly from each conference shall constitute the conference caucus.

S7.50.11. The caucus may draft resolutions for submission to the Resolutions Committee.

S7.50.12. The caucus may discuss resolutions, and transact such other business as the voting members determine.

S7.50.13. The caucus shall meet at the call of the Bishop, the President of the Conference or the request of 15 percent of the voting members of the conference.

S7.50.14. The officers of the conference shall serve as the leadership of the caucus.

South Dakota Synod Constitution, Bylaws and Continuing Resolutions (September 2019) Page 5

May 2021 Page 64 of 66 PARLIAMENTARY PROCEDURES SUMMARY Interrupt 2nd Can It Be Vote Can It Be TO ACCOMPLISH THIS: YOU SAY THIS: Debatable Speaker Needed Amended Required Reconsidered

I. RESOLUTIONS INTRODUCED BY THE RESOLUTIONS COMMITTEE: RC = Resolutions Committee; VM = Voting Member of the Assembly

Recommended "Do Pass" RC: " I move adoption." No No Yes Yes Majority Yes "Do Pass as Amended" RC: " I move adoption as amended." No No Yes Yes Majority Yes "No Recommendation" VM: "I move adoption of #____." No Yes Yes Yes Majority Yes "Commit to Committee" RC: "I move we refer #____ to ____." No No Yes Yes Majority Yes "Do Not Pass" VM: "I move adoption of # ____. No Yes Yes Yes Majority Yes To Amend a Resolution/Motion: VM: "I move to amend the motion No Yes Yes Yes Majority Yes by (deleting) (adding)."

II. PROCEDURAL MOTIONS INTRODUCED BY VOTING MEMBERS FROM THE FLOOR:

To Adjourn the Meeting: "I move that we adjourn." No Yes No No Majority No 59 To Recess the Meeting: "I move that we recess (for)(until) ____." No Yes No Yes Majority No To Return to the Agenda: "I call for the orders of the day." Yes No No No None No To Protest a Breach of Rules: "I rise to make a point of order." No No No No Chair rules No To Object to Ruling of the Chair: "I appeal the decision of the Chair." Yes Yes Chair only No Majority Yes

To Verify a Voice Vote: "I call for a division of the assembly." Yes 50 No No None No To Vote on Separating the Parts "I call for the division of the question." No Yes No No Majority Yes of the Motion: To Close Nominations: "I move that nominations be closed." No Yes No No 2/3 Majority No To Suspend Rules Temporarily: " I move that we suspend the rules No Yes No No 2/3 Majority No and ____ so that _____." To Suspend Consideration of "I move to lay # ____ on the table." No Yes No No Majority No a Motion Temporarily:

To End Debate and Amendments: "I move the previous question." No Yes No No 2/3 Majority No To Refer a Resolution: "I move that we refer # ___ to ___." No Yes Yes Yes Majority Yes To Consider a Tabled Motion: "I move we take # ___ from the table." No Yes No No Majority No To Reconsider a Previous Action: "I move we reconsider (action)." Yes Yes Yes No Majority No To Request Information: "Point of information." Yes No No No None No 84 72 May 2021 Page 65 of 66

SOUTH DAKOTA SYNOD CONGREGATIONS BY CONFERENCE

CONFERENCE I – PRAIRIE COTEAU COMMUNITY CONGREGATION NAME Page 66 of Bradley St John's Lutheran Bristol Bergen Lutheran Bristol Bethesda Lutheran Britton First Lutheran Butler Butler Lutheran Claire City First Lutheran Claremont Augustana Lutheran Clark St Paul Lutheran Crocker Crocker Lutheran Florence Goodhue Lutheran Florence New Helgen Lutheran Kidder Pleasant Valley Lutheran Lake City Lake City Lutheran Langford Evangelical Lutheran Langford Falnes Lutheran Langford Highlanda Lutheran Milbank American Evangelical Lutheran New Effington Faith Lutheran New Effington Walla Lutheran Peever Peever Lutheran Pierpont Bethlehem Lutheran Pierpont Skudesnes Lutheran Revillo Trinity Lutheran Revillo Zoar Lutheran Rosholt Bethania-Trondhjem Lutheran Rosholt St Joseph Lutheran Roslyn Fron Lutheran Roslyn Roslyn Lutheran Sisseton Grace Lutheran Strandburg Tabor Lutheran Summit Hope Lutheran Veblen Our Savior Lutheran Watertown Grace Lutheran Watertown Lutheran Church of Our Redeemer Waubay Our Savior's Lutheran

May 2021 Webster American Lutheran Webster St John's Lutheran White Rock Augustana Lutheran 89 74 Wilmot Wilmot Lutheran 47 48