1 9 9 8 - Faith Lutheran Church



2015 Annual Report

Faith Lutheran Church

Hutchinson, Minnesota

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2015 CHURCH PERSONNEL AND OFFICERS

Church Council Officers

President Brian Lauer

Vice President Wade Eastman

Treasurer Niki Pokornowski

Secretary Linda McGraw

Pastoral Ministry

Pastors Scott Grorud, Dave Wollan

Paul Knudson (Part time)

Visitation Pastor (20 Hours/week) Paulus Pilgrim

Lay Ministry Staff

Administrative Assistant Wendy Mayland

Director of Children & Family Ministry Josiah Frusti

Director of Pastoral Care & Evangelism Marsha Schmit

Director of Youth & Family Ministry Gladys Bonnema

Finance Coordinator Diane Pedersen

Maintenance Keith Lange

Director of Music and Worship Mike Lauer

Monday Volunteer Office Assistant Alice Fransen, Gail Diehl

Tuesday Volunteer Office Assistant Sharon Romo

Wednesday Volunteer Office Assistants LoAnn Hanson, Erin Eastman, LouAnn Perschau

Thursday Volunteer Office Assistants Muriel Dobratz, Linda Nyman

Friday Volunteer Office Assistant Elaine Blade

Wedding Consultants Niki Pokornowski, Diane Pedersen

Music Ministry

Worship Leaders – Sunday Morning Marc Vaillancourt

Ronda Eckhart and Mona Hjerpe

Lara Liepold and Dick Nagy

Organists Shirley Holtz, Ronda Eckhart, Sharon Barton

ANNUAL CONGREGATIONAL MEETING AGENDA

January 31, 2016 – 12:00 noon

Call to Order

Adoption of Agenda

Opening Devotion

Secretary’s Report

Treasurer’s Report

Auditors’ Report

Pastors’, President’s and Ministry Team Reports

Order of Business:

• Imagine Capital Campaign

• Plans for Vision for Ministry Budget Plus

• Election of Church Council and Ministry Team Members

• Approve 2016 Budget

• Other

Closing Prayer

Adjournment

Please bring this report with you to the annual meeting.

Faith Lutheran Church Meeting Minutes

January 25, 2015

Type of Meeting: Faith Lutheran Church Annual Congregational Meeting

Meeting Facilitator: Kelly Pischke

I. Call to order at 12:04 p.m. by Kelly Pischke

II. Adoption of Agenda

A. Action: Motion/Second/Pass - to accept the agenda.

III. Opening Devotions by Pastor Scott based on Ephesians 3:20-21. Closed with singing “Be Thou My Vision.”

IV. Secretary's Report

A. Action: Motion/Second/Pass - to accept the 2014 meeting minutes with the call to order time

change from 11:58 p.m. to 11:58 a.m.

V. Treasurer's Report

A. Ended 2014 ahead of budget—includes $11,000 health insurance tax credit which ended in 2014.

B. Expenses below budget.

C. Offering income declining and must increase in order to continue programs and goals.

D. Action: Motion/Second/Pass - to accept the Treasurer's Report.

VI. Auditors’ Report

Julie Wendland and Kayleen Jensen reviewed the 2014 financial information and found no

discrepancies. Their report can be viewed in the church office.

VII. Pastors’ Report

A. Pastor Dave presented - (report page 6 of Annual Report).

B. Thanked the exceptional staff for their efforts.

C. Personnel Committee was busy filling changes in staff.

D. Thanked Council/Ministry Team members and volunteers for their time and efforts, and the church

members for creating a welcoming atmosphere - many new members in 2014.

VIII. President and Ministry Team Reports

A. Kelly Pischke thanked retiring Council and Ministry Team members for their participation - (Ministry

Team reports can be found on pages 16-19 of Annual Report).

IX. Order of Business

A. Legacy of Faith...Moving Forward Capital Campaign

1. Legacy of Faith...Moving Forward campaign concluded in 2014 and received a total of

$865,478 which was more than the amount pledged.

2. Capital campaign savings account balance increased by $100,000 in 2014.

3. Monthly mortgage payments were met without reducing savings.

4. Building loan was re-amortized in 2014 - loan interest reduced to 4.875% .

5. A balloon payment on the Contract for Deed for old Faith on Grove building is due March

2015. The contract can be renewed - if paid off the money would be applied to the

church's mortgage.

B. Imagine Capital Campaign

1. Pastor Scott and Pastor Dave headed the campaign, with the assistance of the Vision Team:

Mark Guggemos, Deb Marcotte and Jessica Wendland.

2. So far, 197 households have pledged $759,000.

3. No consultant fees were paid, which brings the available funds from the Imagine campaign

very close to the amount pledged in the Legacy of Faith...Moving Forward campaign.

C. Election of Church Council and Ministry Team Members

1. The Nominating Committee report with new nominees was printed in the Annual Report.

2. Pastor Scott thanked all outgoing members of the Church Council and Ministry Team

members.

3. No nominations from the floor.

4. Action: Motion/Second/Pass - to have the secretary cast a unanimous ballot for the new

Church Council and Ministry Team members.

D. Approve 2015 Budget

1. 3.02% increase over 2014 budget

a. Personnel additions to staff,

b. 27th payroll - occurs once every 11 years; without that, budget would have 1.16%

increase, and

c. Health insurance reimbursements to full-time staff were not changed for 2015.

2. Action: Motion/Second/Pass - to accept the 2015 budget.

E. Staff Goals

1. Pastor Scott - complete teaching the Small Catechism for ILT, pursue some of the ministry

project ideas raised during the Imagine theme, and develop a plan for a summer sabbatical.

2. Pastor Dave - Launch and develop a regular college-aged ministry in the Twin Cities,

develop and teach a youth ministry program for ILT, and develop a program of

encouragement and support for Faith parents and teens.

3. Pastor Paul - provide ongoing leadership to a world mission initiative working to strengthen

intentional World Mission witness through LCMC.

4. Pastor Paulus - expand Befriender ministry visitation; provide grief and faith sessions for

those experiencing loses and loved ones.

5. Marsha Schmit - work with Pastor Paulus to change and expand the Befriender program

ministry starting with a Digging Deeper class.

6. Gladys Bonnema - Gladys described a Bible study being offered for each grade level - Goal -

to develop a program to equip teens and their parents for college life.

7. Wendy Toops - offer more Faith Family Fun events and continue to increase attendance of

56er’s (middle-school group).

8. Mike Lauer - start new worship team, start new worship night at a public venue, increase

music and worship camp attendance, and work with Faith youth and worship bands.

9. Wendy Mayland - become more efficient with social media, upgrade webpage, lead a

couple classes, and attend an Augustana District conference.

F. Other - none

X. Closing Prayer - Pastor Dave

XI. Adjournment - Kelly Pischke, on behalf of absent newly elected President Brian Lauer, asked for a motion

to adjourn the meeting-- Action: Motion/Second/Pass. Meeting adjourned at 1:14 p.m.

Respectfully submitted,

Linda McGraw, Congregational Secretary

Pastoral Perspective

“We always give thanks to God for all of you and mention you in our prayers, constantly remembering before our God and Father your work of faith and labor of love and steadfastness of hope in our Lord Jesus Christ.”

I Thessalonians 1:2-3

St. Paul’s thanks for the Thessalonian church expresses our own sense of gratitude and privilege for being able to serve as your pastors at Faith Lutheran Church. The call to proclaim the good news of Jesus Christ and administer the means of grace, as we strive together to serve our Lord and His kingdom, makes this the greatest job in the whole world.

The past year saw a number of important developments in the life and ministry of Faith:

• for the first time, we used a summer-long preaching theme, “In Christ: Ephesians and the Life of Faith.” It was helpful and challenging to read through that entire epistle.

• the last text in Ephesians led into our fall theme, “Cross†Fit.” It explored key faith practices in light of St. Paul’s call to put on The Whole Armor of God. More than a preaching series, it branched out into children’s and youth ministry, Faith Seeds, Senior Potluck and the Cross†Fit small groups.

• those Cross†Fit small groups were a successful experiment in small group ministry and the use of technology. The video format allowed groups to choose their own time to meet. Many of the small groups thrived and continue to study together. Look for a similar small group series in the new year.

• Faith continues to be a leader within the Augustana District of LCMC. This past year, we secured funding from an AD grant to create a college campus worship tour called “Prodigal.” Another grant was used to host a retreat for youth workers.

• we were also involved with ILT. Pastor Dave taught a class on youth ministry and Pastor Scott completed his series on the Small Catechism.

• despite a few anxious weeks late in the year, the Faith family funded this ministry more generously than ever, plus the Imagine capital campaign made tremendous progress in paying the mortgage on the building addition.

• we continue to work with a Church Council and Ministry Teams that are full of energy and creative ideas, and remain as vibrant as ever.

A key part of the joy of serving at Faith is working with a great, dedicated staff. This year, we welcomed the newest member of it, Josiah Frusti, as the Director of Children and Family Ministries. Faith is blessed beyond measure by this great team of devoted and faithful servants. We are grateful to God for all the gifts they bring to this ministry.

None of this would be possible—or necessary—without all of you, the members of Faith who worship, study, witness, serve and support the mission that God has entrusted to us here. We truly do give thanks to God for all of you and pray His richest blessings on you, as well as this ministry we share, in the year to come. Soli Deo Gloria—to God alone be the glory!

Grace and peace,

Pastor Scott Grorud Pastor Dave Wollan

CHURCH COUNCIL PRESIDENT'S REPORT

Any year in a church as dynamic as ours will see its challenges, changes and tests of patience and faith.  I look back on 2015 at Faith Lutheran, though, as a year filled with the radiance of God’s rich blessings.  You will read about many changes, achievements and blessings in the annual reports prepared by our several devoted ministry teams and committees.   Through the tireless and faithful work of these members of our church family, we move the church forward in Gods service—and in ours!  We trust and pray that all we do is pleasing in His eyes.  I encourage everyone in our congregation to seek these people out to thank them, give them your inputs, and to consider joining them on a committee, or as part of the ministry teams!

For me, a few “happenings” particularly stand out: 

• While it was hard to say good-bye to Wendy Toops-Lauer as Christian Ed Director, we were blessed to receive Josiah Frusti to fill that role.  We are blessed to have Josiah and his wife Brooke with us at Faith. 

• While nobody loves their mortgage, we were able to commit substantial funds in the first quarter to buy down the principle on ours, and then in the fourth quarter received a significant reduction in our mortgage interest rate.  These improvements will cut years off of our repayment schedule, and allow us to accelerate our long term plan for a new sanctuary and educational wing. 

• The start of the Mugs and Muffins ministry was also a huge success!  My sincere thanks to the women in our church who founded it and nurtured the idea to the real impact it is having for many of our sisters in Christ.   It is always a challenge for a church to find activities that will resonate with many members of the congregation:  Mugs and Muffins is a clear example of God’s inspiration working through the talents and vision of persons chosen to serve.

Finally, I extend heartfelt thanks to every member of the council, and of our incredible church staff, for the support and trust they extended to me, and for the hard work that made my job a pleasure to have, and to execute.  I know that the Lord’s presence is in all these people, and I am confident that no matter what challenges and changes he might face, our new congregational president, Wade Eastman, will, by the commitment of these many fine people, find his burden light. 

Yours in Christ, Brian Lauer, Congregational President, 2015

PERSONNEL COMMITTEE

Current members of the Personnel Committee are: Wade Eastman, Brian Lauer, Kelly Pischke, Kurt Hjerpe, Linda McGraw, and Sara Wegner.

Each year, the personnel committee is responsible to review all staff benefit costs for medical and dental premiums, life insurance, retirement, etc. Costs and deductibles are reviewed and a policy is chosen to stay within budget for these items. The committee also works with the Finance Team to make budget recommendations for the next year. All staff positions are reviewed and recommendations made to council for any staff needs or changes. In addition, an annual review is conducted with each staff member to reflect on past accomplishments as well as look forward to the next year. 

In 2015, the committee began interviewing to fill the position of Director of Children and Family Ministry, previously held by Wendy Toops. We were fortunate to have a summer temp cover some of the transition, followed by Josiah Frusti joining our staff in July. During the year, we also reviewed and updated the employee handbook to standardize the language, as well as migrate from a vacation/sick policy to a PTO policy.

A big thank you goes out to our staff. Their dedication and compassion is appreciated by our entire congregation. Also, Faith Lutheran could not operate without the many volunteers and we THANK YOU for your time and commitment to support our staff and ministry.

Respectfully Submitted,

Sara Wegner, Personnel Committee

DIRECTOR OF PASTORAL CARE AND EVANGELISM

“Speak to one another with psalms, hymns and spiritual songs. Sing and make music in your heart to the Lord, always giving thanks to God the Father for everything, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ.” Ephesians 5:19-20

What a joy it is to be a part of the family of Faith, sharing psalms and songs and fellowship with one another! I thank God for YOU!

It was a privilege to be involved in the following in 2015:

• Pastoral Care: I work with and coordinate the care team of pastors as they care for the congregation members at home, in the hospital, nursing homes and care centers and walk with you through the hills and valleys of life. I also coordinated the Caring Card Ministry and worked with Pastor Paulus in the Befriender Visitation Ministry

• Evangelism: “Internal Evangelism” means helping you to find things you enjoy doing within our church while serving the needs of the congregation. Weekly exercise continues on Tuesdays, monthly Book Club and weekly worship volunteer coordination. This also includes contacting local visitors, coordinating bi-annual new member orientation and receptions, and welcoming new members while helping them to find ways to get involved at Faith

• Congregational Life Team: Helped to organize fellowship events and ways for the congregation to come together to support others with such things as the Lenten Picnic, Ice Cream Social, Mingle Box and “Fill the Boat,” which provided over 1400 pounds of food this year for the local Food Shelf

• The Institute of Lutheran Theology: ILT works to support congregations to educate the next generation of faithful Lutheran preachers and teachers. One quarter of my time was spent working as the Administrative Assistant for Development for the Institute

May the Lord bless you in 2016!

Together in Christ,

Marsha Schmit

REPORT FROM PASTOR PAUL KNUDSON

Once again in 2015 the major portion of my time has been directed to giving leadership to various aspects of the local, regional, and world wide mission of Faith Lutheran Church. Faith Lutheran offers leadership by example and by offering the Augustana District and other mission agencies financial support and leadership services.

• New Hope Mission Society is the focus of the outreach of FLC in a special way. This is exhibited in its financial support directly as a congregation and through its members. This is expressed through the mission budget, endowment fund gifts, and gifts from groups and families of the congregation. It may be well to note that over $40,000 was directed to the witness of NHMS by the congregation and its members in 2015. A major new initiative, the Shaliach Bible College in India led by Pastor K.K. Alavi, with its 35 present students would not be possible apart from the generosity expressed through FLC. My role as treasurer of the Board involves mostly communications.

• The Augustana District partnership with the Tabor Congregation in Hawassa, Ethiopia, has completed its second year. Over $70,000 has been sent in 2015, resulting in 50 evangelists receiving half of their funds from the AD. Other needs were also met in their outreach efforts, in a primary way among Muslims. Worship centers, working with 15 farmers, and transportation needs for evangelists were also provided. My role is again in communications on varied fronts to foster growth in the partnership.

• I serve on other mission boards on behalf of FLC and the AD. Friends of Madagascar Mission is one we support and is doing wonderful outreach work in partnering with the Malagasy Lutheran Church.

• Local and regional outreach efforts require less time from me, as members of the Church in the World Team and others take the lead in our work with missions such as Common Cup.

I continue to offer limited partnership with the pastoral care team taking my turn in hospital and shut-in visitation, leading worship services at long term care facilities, and other visits as requested.

My role in assisting with the financial affairs of FLC has decreased significantly, as these functions are handled well by Diane Pedersen and the pastors along with elected leaders.

I thank the congregation for this opportunity to serve with you in mission and ministry.

REPORT FROM PASTOR PAULUS PILGRIM, VISITATION PASTOR

2015 was a busy year, with some extra projects added to regular visitation. It was a very good year overall. I thank God and Faith Lutheran for the pastoral opportunities afforded me, along with my fellow staff partners.

We now have visits to make in 10 cities, with members in various facilities. Besides Hutchinson, we have elderly in Hector, Cosmos, Litchfield, Dassel, Cokato, Silver Lake, Watertown, Glencoe and Buffalo Lake. In

Hutchinson, we have members in nursing home and assisted living facilities in 6 locations - Woodstone, The Oaks, The Pines, Prairie Senior Cottages, Birchwood and Harmony River. Visitation keeps us very busy. Most members in these locations are seen on a monthly basis.

Besides visitation, FLC Seniors hold their monthly Seniors’ Potluck meetings. We meet nine months during the year, corresponding to the school year. We have delightful food, fellowship and programs.

I continued giving leadership to the Operation Christmas Childhood program, the annual Samaritans’ Purse project. On the heels of that thrust came spearheading Jonathan Swenson and the Paraphrase Theatre, with his presentation of “Celebrate the Child,” (baby Jesus, of course). It was a very fitting expression of Advent and Christmas grace and joy.

Befriender leader, Marsha Schmit, and I led training sessions for 13 new Befrienders who visit FLC Seniors. Their visits are so well received. I have also had the privilege of leading some Sunday morning Digging Deeper sessions - one with Pastor Paul on Christian funerals, and one on grief during the holidays.

I receive kind support and encouragement from FLC members. Thank you, and God bless you all.

Pastor Paulus

FROM THE DIRECTOR OF YOUTH AND FAMILY MINISTRIES

Two years ago, I accepted this position. I feel like I have learned and grown in many ways, yet still feel like I have so much to learn. We have had an amazing year in confirmation, high school ministry, and developing a new college ministry, and I am so excited for the changes ahead in 2016! 

 Mission Trip - We had an amazing trip to Queens, NY this year. We ended up with a final count of 66 youth and adult leaders, working in community gardens, a kids club, and assisted living homes. It was a great trip with lots of laughter, tears and growth. Praise be to God! Right now, we're getting ready for this summer's trips to Montana and Arecibo, Puerto Rico. We’re planning to take 55 participants this summer.

Personal – While there were many things to be thankful for this year, the loss of a friend and my mother’s health battles have brought me through many stages of grief. I am trusting that God won’t allow that sorrow to be in vain. I trust he will give me opportunities to spread His love to others who will experience such sorrow. Through this loss, I have grown in maturity, had to accept myself for my emotional side and my joyful side, and have gotten to experience God’s grace in abundant ways. 

Continued Traditions - We have continued many traditions, including:  FLYouth on Wednesday nights, confirmation, confirmation hang time and Sunday school, Release Time, Faith Family Fun, free lunch, Mini mission trips, summer mission trips, New Year’s Eve Eve, the Random Acts of Kindness Crew, AP Theology, and many more that I did not list.

New Traditions – While continuing many great ministries, we also worked to introduce new opportunities for kids including: introducing a new topic of relationships and sexuality on the confirmation retreat, an 8th grade leadership retreat, Middle School Madness, the Valentine’s Dinner, a new college ministry called Prodigal, became more involved in our youth director ministry, and partnered with Pastor Paulus to bring in Jonathan Swenson!

o  Prayer Requests - I would love prayer for myself as a leader; that God would continue to show me who I am, that I would be effective and edifying in my teaching, and that I would be satisfied with his work through me. I also request prayer for the youth. You can pray that God would be working in their hearts, convicting them and leading them toward godliness.

It has been another great year of ministry, and I feel God calling me back to a place of connection with Him. Over this next year, I desire to focus on Christ and helping kids know his grace rather than the hustle and bustle of details. My desire is that I would be able to be a resource and strength for kids to grow in their understanding of Jesus and what it means to love Him and walk with Him. I am continually humbled by the support, encouragement, and understanding that this congregation has both for me and for the youth ministry here. Thank you for all you’ve done this year to help our youth!

 

In Him,

Gladys Bonnema

From the Director of Children and Family Ministry

Vacation Bible School

• I was not involved with VBS as I arrived afterwards, but it had an excellent turnout and was very successful. Thanks to everyone who assisted.

Christmas Program

• A Christmas Perspective of an Artist by the FLC 3rd-6th Grade

• Simply Christmas by the FLC 3yr-2nd Grade

56ers

• Started September 23rd

• This year we implemented a small group based Bible Study where leaders take a group of 10-12 kids

and lead them in a time of discussion based on our Bible verse of the day.

• We have between 30-40 students who regularly attend.

• Out of the 30-40 kids who attend weekly, 10-15 kids do not attend Faith Lutheran Church. It is a great

opportunity to connect with students!

• We have a new face almost every week.

• High Schoolers and Adult leaders assist. The students also love to help out in setting out snack, cleaning

up and becoming young leaders in their small groups.

Release Time

• We are learning about the Lord’s Prayer

• The kids love to pray and debate over who gets to do the closing prayer each week.

• We have about 50 kids who attend weekly.

• Held a late start release time event to pack the Operation Christmas Child Boxes. We packed about 80

boxes; there were 10 adults, and 25 students that participated. Thank you to everyone who assisted!

• We also have several kids who do not attend Faith Lutheran church who come to release time.

Sunday School

• We held our 8th Fall Extravaganza on Sunday, September 13th.

• We are using Faith Weavers curriculum from Group Publishing again this year. I have also begun to meet

with our Pre-K – 2nd grade teachers monthly to plan out our curriculum and crafts for the coming weeks.

This saves us time and money as we have been able to buy less Group Curriculum as we build our own.

We will also use SOLA curriculum during Lent.

• 2nd grade was moved from the Foundation space to join the rest of the younger grades on the third level.

Faith Family FUN!

• This has been a very successful program as we regularly have 25-40 people attend.

• These events will engage different age groups throughout the year. Some for young families, middle school, grandparents, high school, etc.

• Some of our events include pumpkin painting, Advent logs, swimming, Bingo, movies and popcorn, etc.

Josiah Frusti, Director of Children and Family Ministry

MUSIC & WORSHIP COORDINATOR

□ Worship – I had a wonderful year being a part of the group of musicians who lead worship for our services. In 2015, with Shirley Holtz still recovering from her surgery, we had the pleasure of hearing Ronda Eckhart and Sharon Barton play the organ for the majority of the Sundays. They are a talented pair of organists and we look forward to hearing more from then in the future. This year we also saw some new faces lead worship with Kevin Elton and Amy Rogotzke joining me on select Sundays throughout the year. We also want to extend our thanks to Lara and Dick, Ronda and Mona, Marc and all the other musicians who have helped lead worship for their dedicated work in the music ministry.

□ Ensembles – The Ringers of Faith and the Faith Singers both had wonderful years. Highlights would include the Prayers at the Cross during Holy Week, Coming Together in Song 10, and the Hymn Sing.

□ Compline – Compline continues to be an uplifting service for me as a worship leader. I’m so grateful to have such a talented group of musicians – typically different each month – which are so willing to see the vision for the service to its full potential. I want to give a special thanks to Marc for his dedication to the service and to the ministry; it truly would not be possible without his gifts.

□ Youth – One of the great pleasures of my role is working with our youth and the staff overseeing youth ministries. I know leading songs at confirmation can often feel like pulling teeth, but it really is moving to see our youth begin to dive into the Word and grow as a class. Nothing warms my heart – which I really need this time of year – more than when they request a song to sing. A highlight would be the Mission Trip to Queens. The time of worship at the park during the rain storm was no doubt the work of God. Recently, Gladys has brought to me the task of leading worship for worship nights at FLY which has been an exciting opportunity to try new concepts and new songs. For the younger kids, I couldn’t help but smile ear-to-ear when I heard our youngest children screaming the chorus to “Go Tell it On the Mountain,” for me it was all things a joyful noise should be. 

□ Other – I had the pleasure of writing two scripts for Reader’s Theater and even made Scott laugh (in church!!) with some Biblically themed jokes. It’s all about timing. Furthermore, my office was transformed into a Hollywood studio set this fall as Dave and I worked through the first Cross†Fit video series. It wasn’t without its share of kinks, but it was a good process to learn and we’re excited for the next series coming out in Lent! I, of course, had a wonderful time at Faith Life Camp, the various youth retreats, and the chance to travel to Denver to help with YouthWorks at their week of training.

Thank you for the continued prayer and support. I look forward to what God has in store for 2016.

Best, Mike Lauer, Director of Music and Worship

IMAGINE CAPITAL CAMPAIGN

This past year saw tremendous progress on paying the mortgage for the new building addition:

• The Imagine Capital Campaign received $756,515.00 in pledges, an amount very close to the amount pledged to the previous campaign, despite it being the fourth capital campaign in a row.

• Imagine has already received $526,000 in gifts! Some of those were not pledged and so were not included in the $756,515. Just imagine how much more than the pledged amount this campaign could end up receiving!

• The required monthly payment has been lowered several times, but we still pay the original amount each month. By now, nearly three-quarters of each month’s payment goes to principal.

• In March, Faith made an extra $300,000 principal payment and in September made another $90,000 extra payment! Some of that money came from reserve funds that were released by our lender, Thrivent Financial, because of our great payment history. Overall, the principal balance was reduced by more than $500,000 in 2015, to $2.1 million.

• In November, Thrivent reduced the interest rate on the loan from 4.875% to 3.25%. That alone shaved nearly two years off the life of the loan. We have now advanced an original 2035 payoff date by nine years, to 2026.

Thank God and thank all of you for this generous, faithful stewardship. If Faith can continue on this pace, it is not impossible that the mortgage could be paid by the 150th anniversary of the church in 2020. What a great goal to pursue together!

FAITH LUTHERAN CHURCH ENDOWMENT FUND

The Faith Lutheran Church Endowment Fund Committee for the year 2015 continued to follow the intended purpose of the fund to enhance the outreach mission of Faith Lutheran Church.

The Fund disbursed generated income of $21,260 in 2015 as follows:

• Global Missions – K.K. Alavi’s work in India, Eastern European Missions Network, Global Heath Care Ministry and Lutheran Malaria Initiative.

• Regional Mission – Lutheran Seminary Scholarship, Faith Lutheran Church Student Scholarship, Bible Camp Scholarships, Institute for Lutheran Theology.

• Local Missions – Christian Counseling Fund, Common Cup Ministry, Church College Scholarship, Prayer Shawl Ministry, Club 218 and Youth Mission Trip scholarships.

In 2015 the Fund received a $20,000 memorial gift from the estate of a church member. Those funds were added to the principal, which in turn increases the interest funds available for disbursement.

The Fund Committee continues to be diligent in carrying out the mission of Faith Lutheran Church realizing that we have the responsibility to be good stewards with these gifts that have been entrusted to Faith Lutheran Church.

Respectfully Submitted, Julie Wendland, Treasurer

Club 218

Club 218 completed its 9th summer serving 26 children, 5 – 9 years old, from 16 families. (16 returning children and 10 coming for the first time) First priority was given to children from low income families in our community. Remaining spots were used by children from Faith Lutheran.

There were 14 high school and 8 middle school students who committed to plan and volunteer at least 8 days over the summer, with many exceeding that number. In addition, there were 11 adults who volunteered during the summer.

Club 218 met at Faith Lutheran Church Monday, Wednesday and Friday from 9:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. for 8 weeks. A typical week at Club 218 includes music, crafts, games, reading, Bible stories, free time, service projects and large group activities. Breakfast and lunch were provided to staff and children through the summer feeding program offered by Hunger Free McLeod. Donations from Faith Lutheran and individuals, allow the program to continue at no cost to the families. 

Shelly Grorud

CONFIDENTIAL EMAIL PRAYER CHAIN

“Don’t worry about anything; instead pray about everything…” Philippians 4:6

We have 36 men and women who receive prayer requests via their email. Our prayer warriors pray specifically upon receiving the confidential request.

You can submit prayer requests to me at grjohn@

If you would like to become a Faith Lutheran prayer warrior please send me your email address.

Geri Johnson

PRAYER SHAWL MINISTRY

“Every time I think of you, I give thanks to my God. I always pray for you, and I make my requests with a heart full of joy…” Philippians 1:3, 4

Our Faith Lutheran Prayer Shawl Ministry began in May, 2006. We have 15 women actively involved in our ministry. In 2015, we presented 35 shawls and our total shawls presented these past 10 years is 783. Over the years, our shawls have been given to residents of nursing homes/care centers, missionaries serving abroad, Common Cup Ministry, those who are hospitalized, those who celebrate milestone birthdays/anniversaries, those who are mourning the death of a loved one, our high school graduating seniors and others. The prayer shawl serves as a physical reminder that we remember them in prayer.

“Children are a gift from the Lord, they are a reward from Him.” Psalm 127:3

Our prayer shawl ministry includes prayer blankets for newborn babies. A prayer blanket is presented to each family of Faith when a child joins the family. This year we presented 5 blankets for a total of 137 blankets given.

We supply yarn for our shawl makers. The yarn is purchased through gifts of money from the Women’s Ministry, the Endowment Fund, Mission & Outreach and individuals. THANK YOU for your continued support. THANK YOU to all who create our beautiful shawls and blankets.

If you knit or crochet and would like to become a part of our Prayer Shawl Ministry, please contact me at 320-587-6733 or grjohn@

Geri Johnson

FAITH LUTHERAN CHURCH WOMEN (FLCW)

Our grateful thanks to the women and men who have volunteered many hours this past year helping with the rummage sale, garden tour/salad luncheon, pie for music in the park, coffee hours, funerals, meatball supper, cake walk, community meal, bloodmobile, prayer shawls, quilts, global health kits, pillow case dresses, ILT lunch, kitchen cleaning and much more. Money raised from these events have allowed us to contribute $5,000 to the general church budget, $3,620 to the Imagine Campaign, along with donations to Common Cup, Meals on Wheels, two nursing home beauty shops, Augustana District’s Women of the Word, Random Acts of Kindness and coffee maker repairs and purchase.

Thank you to Darlene Larson for many years of dedicated ministry as Funeral Coordinator. We are still looking for people to help fill this role, which has been broken down into four part time positions instead of one full time one. Please prayerfully consider if this may be a ministry you can help with.

Thank you also to Virgene Shellenbarger and Patsy Amundson who are retiring from the board.

Respectfully Submitted, Bobbi Knudson, for the board of the FLCW

NEW HOPE MISSION SOCIETY (NHMS)

Mission Statement: Our Christian Community desires to bring the love of Jesus Christ to the Muslim world.

New Hope Mission Society continues to reach out to Muslims in the following ways:

• Pastor K.K. Alavi continues his ministry in the southwestern area of India. He is contacting Muslims through the internet, mailings and direct marketplace evangelizing. Pastor K.K. and his son, Abdul, have started the Shaliach Bible School and Seminary. Last year there were 15 students and this year there are 35 students. People attending the school are learning more about the Christian faith and the best way to reach out to Muslims. Throughout the summer, via the internet, Dorothy provided the students with English and vocabulary lessons.

• The Otten English School is a school for Kindergarten – Grade 12. It is located about 40 minutes from the Bishara Center. Muslim, Hindu and Christian children attend the school. The school day begins with Christian devotions in each schoolroom. Each week ends with a voluntary Bible Study. Over 100 children choose to attend the Bible study.

• In cooperation with Dr. Christoph from Germany, we support Pastor Titus in northern Nigeria. Each day is a challenge for Pastor Titus to escape the terrorists. Each day is a blessing as he spreads the gospel to his countrymen.

• Frank Hutton develops friendships with international students in the Minneapolis/St. Paul area. Along with friendships, Frank is also bringing the Gospel to the students.

• Abdul, Pastor K.K.’s son, continues to take classes through ILT. He has a strong desire to become a qualified pastor so that he can better assist in the India ministry.

In October, Ellen Juul, Dick and Dorothy Desens attended the LCMC Convention where they had a NHMS display. The purpose was to seek a broader support base. During the LCMC Convention, Dr. Christoph flew in to meet with Pastor Randy and the entire Faith Lutheran delegation.

Dick and Dorothy Desens, along with Linda Duesterhoeft from Christ the King, have just returned from a trip to India where they were working with K.K. Alavi teaching English lessons.

Thank you for your continuing prayers and support for NHMS. Your heart for mission has made all of this possible.

The 2015 financial report for NHMS is available in the Faith Lutheran Church office.

Submitted by Dorothy Desens, President of NHMS

SENIORS TASK FORCE

We have reduced the name of this task force from “Seniors Ministry Task Force” to simply, “Seniors Task Force.” That’s only because it’s easier to say, and is what most have been calling it anyway.

Our current Task Force is: LoAnn Hanson, David Franzen, Alice Fransen, Gary Hoffman, Ron Anderson and Ginny Brodd. Our thanks once again for their faithfulness.

This year of 2015 has been an easier one. Following our busy year in 2014, getting our new Befrienders ministry off the ground, together with the Befrienders themselves, and Marsha, their leader, we were responsible for only one other event. That was the Bless The Years Sunday, last May 3rd. Since this ministry has been going for quite a few years now, it didn’t take long to plan the current edition. I hope we can continue to provide meaningful worship for each first Sunday in May in observance of Bless The Years.

Each year we Seniors provide for the radio worship broadcasts on Bless The Years Sunday, and All Saints Sunday. Our offerings come from the free will offerings at our Seniors Potluck meetings throughout the year. This year we added another quality program to the Potluck meetings - packing Operation Christmas Child boxes. I hope you saw the pictures of our proud Seniors, holding a packed box, in the newsletter and on Facebook. A major production for us was to secure Jonathan Swenson and his Paraphrase Theatre for both our Potluck meeting, and for the December 9th Advent worship service. We did truly “Celebrate The Child,” the living Lord Jesus Christ, through his skilled portrayals of people surrounding our Savior’s birth. Pastor Swenson also served the youth with his portrayals of significant characters surrounding our Savior, Jesus.

Pastor Paulus Pilgrim

FAITH LUTHERAN QUILTERS

This is a busy group that has been hard at work in 2015. They have made and distributed 99 quilts along with many rugs, baby blankets, pillow case dresses, sewing kits, scarves, stocking caps and booties, afghans, newborn kits, bed pads and wheelchair covers.

This group meets once a month to work together but many of these ladies also work at home on their own time. They would like to extend a thank you to all of you who have donated supplies, the Hutchinson Hospital for their donations of old sheets and blankets and Dorothy Desens for her many trips to the cities and other locations to deliver these finished products. Donations have gone to Lutheran World Relief, Green Lake Bible Camp, Slumberlands Bed Donation Program, Orphan Grain Train, Common Cup, People Serving People, Global Human Ministries, Homeless Shelters, the VA and the DAV.

As they are preparing to start 2016, they are again looking for donations of supplies. Primarily they are looking for sheets and scraps of material. If you have anything you wish to get rid of please drop it off in the office with a note that it is for Diane Ferguson and the quilters.

 

2015 FUNERAL LUNCHEONS

A total of 13 funeral luncheons were served in 2015. Thank you to the callers, the kitchen supervisors and to all of the workers who helped to serve in any way. The congregation is divided into 10 groups, each with its own caller. You are encouraged to say yes, whenever possible, when you are called to work at a funeral luncheon. Volunteering is a great way to become better acquainted with other members of our Faith family. If you would like to help with this ministry by being an on-call worker, a kitchen supervisor, or a funeral liaison, please contact the church office. To God be the glory as we serve in His name.

THRIVENT UPDATE

Thank you to all Thrivent members who have picked Faith Lutheran to receive their Choice Dollars in 2015.  The church had received $7,253 as of November 30th. If you still have Choice Dollars to designate, March 31st is the deadline to do that for 2015.  Simply call Thrivent at 1-800-847-4836 or go to thriventchoice to decide where you want your dollars spent. 

“Action Teams” were a new program in 2015. Each Thrivent member could pick two activities to help with $250 seed money for each event.  Faith Lutheran benefited multiple times.  Some of the Action Teams done were Smart StepFamily class, Senior Valentine Dinner, Dad's Belgium Waffles, Easter Breakfast, Rummage Sale, Teacher Appreciation Event, Community Meals, Garden Tour, Drive-In-Diner, Faith by the Fire, Meatball Supper, Mugs and Muffins, Cross†Fit small groups, Family Fun Nights, the Operation Christmas Child boxes and the Paraphrase Theater. A benefit of $4,750 went to our church in some way.

If you are doing an event for the church, you might be able to help with the expenses by applying for an Action Team.  If you're not a Thrivent member, maybe someone else that is helping with the event could apply for the Action card.  Let's utilize as many dollars as possible.  If the dollars aren't used by Thrivent members, Thrivent decides what organizations will benefit.  If you have questions about Thrivent Choice Dollars or the Action Teams, please give me a call at 320-587-4761.

Your help is making a difference.  Thank you for helping Faith Lutheran,

Patsy Amundson, Volunteer Thrivent Congregational Advocate

MINISTRY TEAMS

Ministry Teams were created in an effort to broaden the base of leadership at Faith Lutheran, create clearer lines of authority and delegation for various duties within the church, and to make the decision-making process more transparent and efficient. Six Ministry Teams exist to oversee broad areas of Faith’s ministry. These teams

create, receive, evaluate and implement ministry programs directly and/or oversee work done by various

sub-groups in the church. Reports from each of the six groups appear below.

CHURCH IN THE WORLD TEAM

This team seeks to focus on the mission of FLC beyond ourselves as we witness in word and deed within this community, regionally, nationally, and to the ends of the earth. The Great Commission as noted in Matthew 28 and Acts 1 govern our actions.

This year we gave special attention to seeing how we can support and encourage young adults in deepening their faith and going out in witness. We were able to hear from and support a number of our own, inviting the Church Council to direct modest financial support to them. Katie and Laura Weikle, Guy and Leia Johnson, Stephen and Jennifer Freund received encouragement in this way, even as their reports inspired us all. We also sought to encourage our young staff, led by Pastor Dave, in their own outreach to college students centered on campuses in Fargo/Moorhead, St. Cloud, St. Peter/Mankato, and the Twin Cites. We want to advocate for FLC seeking to increase its attention to this generation in our witness.

We wrestled with the balance between our witness locally and internationally. We came together in focusing the attention of the congregation on our mission endeavors on many fronts. This included preparing prayer petitions for the pastors for our weekly prayers of the church at worship.

Once again this congregation gave attention to providing funds for hunger concerns. Madagascar faced a severe famine, and we directed funds early in the year through our trusted mission partner, Friends of Madagascar Mission. The Council trusted that this would later be covered by our November hunger appeal. Over $$6.500 was given by members and disbursed to Common Cup (30%), Lutheran World Relief (20%), Friends of Madagascar Mission (25%), and Samaritan’s Purse (25%).

We also directed our attention to modest funding of a Common Cup initiative in providing laundry funds for the needy, initiating the paper drive, and assisting with a sewing initiative in India that was largely funded through Friday morning women’s Bible Study groups.

Members: Jan Kreie (chairperson), Dick Desens, Diane Enstad, Ken Holler, Ellen Juul, Greg Pearce, Randy Redman, and Roberta Yukel.

CONGREGATIONAL LIFE TEAM

The Congregational Life Team seeks to integrate church members into its life and mission.

Do not neglect to do good and to share what you have, for such sacrifices are pleasing to God. Hebrews 13:16

Members include: Sue Alrick, Brad Burch, Laurie Gelschus, Michelle Leyde, Michelle Malchow, Janet Meier, and Marsha Schmit (staff advisor).

Highlights from 2015 include:

• Provided a picnic-style fellowship meal during Lent

• Coordinated the intergenerational Mingle Box Event

• Coordinated the treat schedule for outdoor worship services

• Provided an ice cream social after one of the outdoor worship services at Library Square

• Called new members to welcome them to Faith

• Served pizza and treats during New Member Orientation

• Provided food for the Sunday School Extravaganza

• Coordinated and served a community outreach meal

• Collected food shelf donations (Fill the boat!) and delivered 1420 pounds in time for Thanksgiving

• Coordinated the Christmas Giving Tree for McLeod County children

• Prepared and served the Lut’ran Supper prior to an Advent Service

Looking forward to 2016! We welcome any ideas or suggestions to promote fellowship and member involvement in our Faith Family

Respectfully submitted, Sue Alrick

DISCIPLESHIP MINISTRY TEAM

Members of the Discipleship Ministry Team are: Julie Renkes, Shawn Anderson, Jon Wehler, Tessa Ewert, Pat May, Steve Kilian and Lou Ann Perschau. Staff Advisors: Pastor Dave Wollan and Wendy Mayland.

The Discipleship Team works to strengthen the discipleship of the church by:

• Providing learning opportunities for adults to grow in faith and ministry.

• Leading stewardship education to encourage all members to manage their time, ability and possessions faithfully.

• Providing hands-on opportunities for service in the church and community.

• Relating to independent church organizations such as women’s or men’s groups (Seniors Ministry Taskforce, FLCW Board, Stewardship team, Men’s and Women’s Bible studies).

During 2015 the Discipleship Team focused on the following activities:

• Began Mugs and Muffins for Women and Breakfast and Bibles for Men. These two groups met separately on a monthly basis for fellowship and ministry.

• Completed a welcome brochure and a map of our facilities. The brochure includes contact information and worship schedules. The map provides location information for each level of our facility. The maps and brochures were placed in blue pew pads, on walls and the kiosk.

• In January we served soup and sandwiches for approximately 50 people during the Community Outreach meal.

• Served treats and coffee at Library Square worship in August.

• This fall we had 10 volunteers who helped to deliver approximately 35 care packages to nursing home residents and shut-ins.

• We had a great time preparing and holding the Annual Chili/Soup Cook-off. Approximately 75 people attended the event and Diane Enstad’s soup and Julie Renkes’s chili were judged to be the best.

As we look forward to 2016, we hope to continue to come up with new ideas for growing the faith and ministry of Faith Lutheran and to provide hands-on experiences for all members. A focus will be on organizing and participating in opportunities to have adults interacting in enjoyable activities.

Thank you to all the members of the Discipleship Ministry Team for sharing their time and talents this past year and helping us build a stronger discipleship for the Faith Family.

Respectfully Submitted, Lou Ann Perschau

MANAGEMENT TEAM

2015 Team Members: Brian Lauer, Wade Eastman, Niki Pokornowski, Linda McGraw, Jim Christensen, Ross Jurek, Scott Grorud, and Diane Pedersen.

The Management Ministry Team oversees the finances and property of the church by:

1. Supervising the budget process of the church and the allocation of all funds.

2. Securing adequate insurance to protect the church and its properties.

3. Keeping record of all money and property donated to the church and investing or dispersing of funds as directed by the Church Council or congregational meeting.

4. Providing monthly financial reports to the Church Council.

5. Overseeing the maintenance and improvement of the church properties.

6. Recommending, supervising and supporting the church custodian(s).

For further Management Team information, please see the Church Council President’s Report on p. 6.

This team had a great year with a lot of hard work and many successes. Thank you, members of Faith Lutheran, for your ongoing support of all that takes place in our church.

Respectfully Submitted by Diane Pedersen

Faith Lutheran Finance Coordinator and Management Ministry Team Member

SPIRITUAL FORMATION TEAM

2015 members: Mandy Baldry, Gladys Bonnema (staff advisor), Jodi DeMeyer, Josiah Frusti (staff advisor), Shelly Grorud, Eric Haffley, Jonathan Kamrath, Alan Liepold, Janelle Reid, and Christine Ruppert. The Spiritual Formation ministry team has a wide variety of Children’s and Youth Ministry activities and programs that it works with every year. The team supports Christian parents in nurturing the faith of children and youth in the church by various means throughout the church. During 2015 we worked together in the following areas:

 

Faith Family Fun-

A monthly event organized by our team to bring families together

Events included: a winter and summer pool day, America’s Fitness, paint factory, bowling, pumpkin carving, advent wreaths, and sponsoring a parent’s night out

Extravaganza –

The Fall Extravaganza was Sun. Sept. 13, 2015, and once again a huge success

Activities included: large inflatables, an “armor of God” themed game, pizza, popcorn, balloon animals, face painting, just to name a few

Red Carpet Sunday -

Red Carpet Sunday was May 15, 2015

Activities Included: a backstage tour of the church, fun facts, and frozen yogurt

Community Outreach Meal –

The Spiritual Formation team served the Community Outreach Meal on August, 2, 2015. We served lasagna and salad

Youth Worker Retreat Meal-

Organized and served a meal to Augustana District youth directors for a retreat hosted by our church.

Release Time –

The Spiritual Formation Team assisted the Release Time program with their Operation Christmas Child packing party.

New Staff –

While it was a great pleasure to have Wendy Toops, we are happy to encourage her in her new role as an incredible volunteer at Faith, we welcomed Josiah Frusti as our new children’s ministry director.

Partnerships- Our team works to enhance the children and youth ministries in the following areas:

Sunday School- We help call and solidify teachers as well as create a thank you gift for them

Christmas Program- Helped organize and lead our two Christmas programs

Club 218- Helped out when High School youth were unavailable during the mission trip

Sprouts- We rotate helping to lead 20-25 kids on Sunday mornings throughout the year

Confirmation- We supported 22 kids in 2015 who confirmed their faith on Reformation Sunday October 25th

Youth Night- Helped lead and participated in weekly youth night (snow tubing, mini mission trips, senior recognition brunch, MEA retreat, Random Acts of Kindness Crew, AP Theology etc. )

Mission Trip- Supported the mission trip to Queens, NY by helping with fundraisers and praying for this group

            

WORSHIP TEAM

As a group we provide an active, enriching worship life for Faith Lutheran by giving special attention to important liturgical days and other notable days in the church year.

• Lenten Services: Promoted services to the congregation through posters placed at both entrances to the church.

o On Palm Sunday we supplied Palm Branches.

o On Maundy Thursday we staged “the Last Supper” in the gathering space before and after the services.

o On Good Friday the Faith Singers presented “Prayers at the Cross”

o On Easter, members of the Bell Choir rang bells at the beginning of services and Emma Wollan played a drum roll on a floor tom.

o Presented an original Reader’s theater written by staff Mike Lauer.

• April – facilitated a Dad’s Belgian Waffle breakfast to raise funds for the music ministry.

• May – Planned Outdoor Services with Jeff Krueger

o In May, we organized a Hymn Sing, where several hymns were presented with their appropriate Bible texts.

• June – Participated in the Water Carnival’s Boat Parade with Corey Rude.

• Supplied Treats for Summer Worship

• September – Organized a Volunteer Appreciation Sunday on the 27th.

• October – We facilitated the 2nd Annual Faith by the Fire.

• November – Community meal. Chicken curry wild rice casserole.

• December – Caroling to Shut-ins with meal provided afterwards.

o Presented a reader’s theater for an Advent service.

A warm thanks to this team for all of their hard work and diligent attention to detail. They have created many special events for Faith Lutheran to enhance our worship experience.

Submitted by Mike Lauer, Director of Music and Worship

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AUGUSTANA DISTRICT ANNUAL REPORT

2015

THANK YOU for your partnership in the Augustana District. We are blessed to be one of the 12 Districts of LCMC. 2015 has been a significant year of ministry and mission!

The Augustana District is a non-geographic district. We consist of 58 congregations from 10 states that span from Washington to Georgia and from Oregon to Texas. Most of our congregations hail from Minnesota. There are 73 pastors on the Augustana clergy roster.

The key words that best describe our purpose are these: Theology. Church. Mission. We seek to serve LCMC congregations by tending to theology. Lutheran theology is our gift to share with others and our responsibility to interpret for our context. Alongside this, we also support and encourage churches. This can mean any number of things. Some examples include sharing resources and staff, aiding in the call process or conflict resolution and partnering with congregations for creative programs. Our theology and our work together as churches is all about proclamation – that is, proclaiming the good news to all people from “Jerusalem to the ends of the earth.” This is called the Great Commission and it is carried out locally (“Jerusalem”) and globally (“the ends of the earth”).

To assist in carrying out Augustana’s mission, we have four Boards: Board of Theology and Ministry, Board of Christian Education, Board of Congregational Missions and Board of World Mission. We also have a women’s organization called WOW (Women of the Word). Our District Council is the group that oversees and coordinates our various ministries.

Our website () or our Facebook page (augustanadistrict) will give up-to-date information and resources. If you know of other congregations or pastors interested in the Augustana District, please contact Pastor Randy Freund rfreund@), Service Coordinator or Wendy Mayland, Administrative Assistant (wendym@).

Once again, thank you for your partnership in this ministry!

In Christ,

Pastor Randy Freund, Service Coordinator

A SPECIAL NOTE OF THANKS

Thank you to Faith Lutheran Church! You are a significant part of the success and growth of the Augustana District. Pastor Scott and Pastor Paul head up two of our boards and Pastor Dave has had a key role in our confirmation retreats. I would be lost without the support and help of Wendy Mayland, Diane Pedersen and Karen Eckstrom! Thank you!!

SAVE THE DATE!

ANNUAL CONVENTION

April 23, 2016, Living Word Lutheran Church, Marshall, MN

NOMINATING COMMITTEE REPORT

The Church Council consists of four congregational officers and ten additional members. All Council members also serve on one of the six ministry teams. The officers all serve on the Management ministry team. Two of the remaining council members serve on each of the others. The ministry teams include two to six other members. The President and Vice-President serve one-year terms that are not renewable. The Treasurer and Secretary serve one-year terms that can be renewed once. All other terms are two years, renewable once (except for unfilled terms).

Please note: All names in BOLD are nominated for election at the Annual Meeting on Jan. 31, 2016. All other names are continuing their terms.

Congregational Officers:

President: Wade Eastman Vice-president: Niki Pokornowski

Secretary: Linda McGraw Treasurer: Ron Anderson

Ministry Team Members:

Church in the World

Church Council Representative: Ken Holler (one year remaining)

Church Council Representative: Bill Petersen (two-year term)

Members continuing their terms: Diane Enstad, Dick Desens, Berta Yukel (one year remaining)

Members to be elected: Tiffany Waller, Emma Wollan, Katie Brecht (two-year terms)

Congregational Life

Church Council Representative: Michelle Malchow (one-year remaining)

Church Council Representative: Joy May (two-year term)

Members continuing their terms: Michelle Leyde, Laurie Gelschus (one year remaining)

Members to be elected: Sue Alrick, Jolene Mielke (two-year terms)

Discipleship

Church Council Representative: Jon Wehler (one-year remaining)

Church Council Representative: Cheryl Buboltz (two-year term)

Members continuing their terms: Tessa Ewert, Shawn Anderson, Lou Ann Perschau (one year remaining)

Members to be elected: Pat May, Dick Lennes, Sandy Lennes (two-year terms)

Management

Church Council Representatives: Wade Eastman (President), Niki Pokornowski (Vice-President),

Linda McGraw (Secretary), Ron Anderson (Treasurer)

Members continuing their terms: Ross Jurek (one year remaining)

Member to be elected: Dave Westlund (two-year term)

Spiritual Formation

Church Council Representative: Christine Ruppert (one year remaining)

Church Council Representative: Jon Kamrath (two-year term)

Members continuing their terms: Janelle Reid, Shelly Grorud, Alan Liepold (one year remaining)

Members to be elected: Jodi DeMeyer, Angie Elton, Kevin Elton (two-year terms)

Worship

Church Council Representative: Dan Brinkman (one year remaining)

Church Council Representative: Amanda Schueler (two-year term)

Members continuing their terms: Mary Ann Kennedy, Jake McDonald, Connie Kurtzweg (one year remaining)

Members to be elected: John Muske, Shelly Kirchoff, Carl Horton (two-year terms)

Nominating Committee

Kelly Pischke, Kent Jacobsen and Shari Dorival (one year remaining)

Jan Kreie, Brian Lauer, Barb Anderson (two-year terms)

NEW MEMBERS RECEIVED

Mike & Lisa Adamek Doug Ankrum & Lori Tauer Robert Baune & Amy Berry

and Hannah Kimberlee Buda and Morgan Berry

Kevin & Angie Elton Mat & Brenda Flann Josiah & Brooke Frusti

Mary Griep and Ava Carl Horton

Leslie Householder Cheryl Juarez Josh & Megan Karg

and Siera, Micaela and Mark and Hannah & Kellen

& Olivia Nelson John & Amanda Langins Dick & Sandy Lennes

Taylor & Valerie and Nora & Lucy Casey & Alyssa Nornes

and Hadley Markus & Destany Okeson Josh & Kelli Pearce

Mackenthun and Aliyah, Kyleigh & Kinsley and Manny & Braden

Justin Peterman & Evelyn Ramiez Ken & Dorothy Reinke

Tiffany Waller and Kenny & Annie Reinke Tom & Amy Rogotzke

Oliva & Jack Horton and Larkin & Kallin Justin & Danielle Sankey

Pat Scharn Amanda Schueler and Rachel & Spencer

Matt & Tera Telecky Ashley Ulrich Jeremy & Leah Watzke

and Taylor & Griffin and Brody & Jaxon and Olivia & Avery

RECEIVED THROUGH THE SACRAMENT OF HOLY BAPTISM

Hannah Adamek Jaxon Adams Oliver Beckman

Mason Berwald Scarlette Burkstrand Aiden Eastman

Grayson Ewert Simley Fasching Emery Frykman

Mystery Guerra Grant Hoff Kylie Jackson

Hadley Mackenthun Olivia Mason Aria Niemczyk

Braden Pearce Briar Riehle Treasure Salazar

Unique Salazar Ellary Stenzel Quinn Swenson

Evan Thrall

CONFIRMED AT FAITH ON OCT. 25, 2015

Kamryn Brecht

In memory of Mitchell Breitbarth

Peyton Christie

Dominick Curtiss

Jackson Fabel

Tucker Gifferson

Lane Glaser

Mystery Guerra

Makenna Hammer

Lucas Hoof

Isabel Huck

Caleb Inselmann

Sidney Lux

Damar Magee

Presley Martinson

Jacob Ogren

Maxwell Petersen

Tyler Rath

Riese Renville

Cade Ruppert

Tyler Scheevel

Lucas Schoettmer

Austin Vacek

Kalley Wigen

MARRIAGES DEATHS/BURIALS

Lynn Wegner and Kristopher Neumann Charles Christensen

Elizabeth Brodd and Kevin Raasch Gordon Curtiss

Alyson Teubert and Tyler Durbin Heather Eckstrom

Abbie Neubarth and Kurt Weispfenning Dorothy Getz

Wendy Toops and Michael Lauer Larry Griep

Talia Stifter and Damion Bartley Jeffrey Lux

Mackenzie Kern and Jonas Hallquist Bruce Miekle

Brittney Hammer and Zachary Swenson Ardelle Paulson

Nikkita Settergren and Johnathan Schmidt David Perschau

Sylvia Peterson

Joan Voss

Financial Reports

2015

* Full Financial Reports are available in church office. If you would like one mailed, please call the church office at (320)587-2093.

| |FAITH LUTHERAN CHURCH GENERAL FUND | |

| |BALANCE SHEET | |

| |31-Dec-15 | |

| | | | |

| |ASSETS | | |

|General Fund | | | |

| |Cash in Bank – General Operations |76,593 | |

| |Petty Cash |100 | |

| |Total General Assets | | 76,693 |

|Restricted Funds | | | |

| |Building Maintenance Fund |22,139 | |

| |Capital Appeal Funds |358,081 | |

| |Christian Counseling Fund |1,819 | |

| |Faith Lutheran Church Endowment Fund |569,436 | |

| |Faith Lutheran Church Women |5,930 | |

| |St. Morten’s Cemetery Fund |1,983 | |

| |Iverson/Mallinson Scholarship Fund |425 | |

| |Memorial Fund |9,505 | |

| |Special Fund Account |58,160 | |

| |Tapper Memorial Fund |362 | |

| |Total Restricted Funds | | 1,027,839 |

|Plant Fund | | | |

| |Land - Main St |421,270 | |

| |Church Sanctuary and New Addition |5,593,220 | |

| |Notes Receivable - Faith on Grove Contract for Deed |0 | |

| |Furniture, Fixtures and Equipment |274,727 | |

| |Total Plant Fund | | 6,289,217 |

| | | | |

| |Total Assets | |$7,393,749 |

| | | | |

| |LIABILITIES & EQUITIES | | |

| | | | |

|Loans Payable | | | |

| |Past Operating Debt |$0 | |

| |Legacy of Faith Mortgage Loan |$2,145,769 | |

| |Total Loans | |$2,145,769 |

| | | | |

| | | | |

|Net Equities | | | |

| |General Fund (Operational Deficit) |76,693 | |

| |Restricted Funds |1,027,839 | |

| |Plant Fund |4,143,448 | |

| |Total Net Equities | |$5,247,980 |

| | | | |

| |Total Liabilities & Total Equities | |$7,393,749 |

| | | | |

| |

| |FAITH LUTHERAN CHURCH GENERAL FUND | | |

| |TREASURER'S REPORT | | |

| |31-Dec-15 | | |

| | | | |

| |Cash in Bank January 1, 2015- General Fund | |53,810 |

| | | | |

|Receipts - Miscellaneous Revenue | | |

| | |0 | |

| | | | |

|Receipts - Offerings/Interest | | |

| |4000 · General Offerings (and special) |466,726 | |

| |4001 · Simply Giving General Fund |152,521 | |

| |4003 · Loose Offerings |16,285 | |

| |4006 · Year-End Offerings |16,000 | |

| |4008 · Lent & Holy Week |10,099 | |

| |4009 · Easter |14,541 | |

| |4010 · Christmas & Advent |23,765 | |

| |4011 · Interest & Dividends |32 | |

| |4012 · Building Rental Fund |1,770 | |

| |4055 · 40 Weeks |0 | |

| |4015 · Other Receipts |19,555 | |

| |4223 - Missions Donations |1,550 | |

| |4241 - Dessie Congregation Leadership |0 | |

| |4016 · Mission Sunday |1,528 | |

| |4204 · Thanksgiving/World Hunger |4,983 | |

| |4203 - Faith's Good Samaritan Ministry |0 | |

| | |  | |

| |Total Receipts - Offering/Interest |729,354 | |

| | | | |

|Receipts - Ministry Revenue | | |

| |Ministry Revenue |54,328 | |

| | |  | |

| |Total Ministry Revenue |54,328 | |

| | | | |

| |Total Receipts | |837,492 |

| | | | |

|Total 2015 Expenditures | | |

| |Ministry Expense |757,847 | |

| |Change in Receivables |3,052 | |

| |Less total 2015 Expenditures | |760,899 |

| | | | |

| | | | |

| |Cash in Bank - December 31, 2015- General Fund | |76,593 |

| | | | |

|The books and records of the Faith Lutheran Church General Fund have been submitted by Diane Pedersen, Finance Coordinator and Nicole |

|Pokornowski, Treasurer. |

|Faith Lutheran Church Budget vs. Actual |

| |

| | | | | | | | | |

| | | | |2015 | |Jan-Dec 2015 Actual| |2016 Proposed Budget |

| | | | |Budget | | | | |

| | | | | | | | |

| | | |Offering Revenue |706,694 | |727,584 | |724,694 |

| | | |Ministry Revenue |55,525 | |54,328 | |51,505 |

| | | |Total Revenue |762,219 | |781,912 | |776,199 |

| | | | | | | | |

| | | |Ministry for Missions/Benevolence |70,650 | |72,011 | |72,750 |

| | | |Ministry for Discipleship |45,325 | |39,117 | |45,825 |

| | | |Ministry for Outreach |20,050 | |18,218 | |19,300 |

| | | |Ministry for Care |3,350 | |3,249 | |3,850 |

| | | |Ministry for Worship |8,450 | |10,353 | |10,090 |

| | | |Ministry for Admin. - property |108,250 | |116,738 | |113,166 |

| | | |Ministry for Admin. - personnel |506,044 | |498,161 | |511,118 |

| | | |Contingency Expense |100.00 | |0.00 | |100.00 |

| | | |Debt Serviced |0.00 | |0.00 | |0.00 |

| | | |Total Expense |762,219 | |757,847 | |776,199 |

| | | | | | |24,065 | |0 |

2015 Financial Update

• Total revenue received in 2015 was $781,912, which is an increase of $41,956 or 5.67% from the previous year. It should be noted that in 2014 we received a Federal Health Care Tax Credit of $11,435. Taking that into account, offering and ministry revenue are actually up $53,390 or 6.83%. Due to changes in staff and a 27th payroll which only happens every 11 years, personnel costs were $38,690 or 8.42% higher in 2015 than they were in 2014. We were able to meet all of our ministry commitments and end the year with a net income of $24,065 and a cash balance of $76,593.

• Financial gifts to missions equaled 10.64% of prior year offering revenue.

• Our beginning cash balance in 2015 was $53,810. Due to the fact that we started the year off with a good cash balance, we were able to fund our extra January payroll and make it into September before we needed to rely on internal borrowing for cash flow purposes.

• Ministry revenue is income received outside of regular offerings. It includes such items as Thrivent Choice dollars, radio sponsorships, fees for programs, and reimbursements for staff time from the Institute of Lutheran Theology and Augustana District.

• Our Capital Appeals savings account ended the year with a balance of $254,755 which is $69,332 less than our balance on December 31, 2014. This is due to making a $300,000 extra principal payment in April of 2015. During 2015, we paid $509,172 in principal and $111,753 in interest on our mortgage loan. That is almost 4 ½ times more principal than interest. Currently, we have decreased the life of our loan from 25 years to 17 years. If we were able to continue making extra principal payments like that in the next three years, we would be able to pay off our current mortgage in the year 2020. That would be paying a 25 year loan in 10 years. What an awesome thought! It is only through continued generosity and commitment from our members that allows us to make extra principal payments and re-amortize our mortgage loan, thus reducing the number of years it will take us to pay off the loan. Thank you for your continued support.

The 2015 Budget Proposal

• In order to meet our budget commitments and maintain a healthy cash balance in 2016, offerings of $776,199 and Ministry Revenue of $51,505 will be needed. This is an increase of 1.80% from revenues received in 2015.

• Mission giving is calculated to reach a tithe (10%) of offering revenue.

|Faith Lutheran Church Endowment Fund | |

|Profit & Loss 2015 | |

| | |

|Jan - Dec 15 |

|Income | |

|Endowmnet Fund Reinvestment |

|4,330.00 |

|New Donations |

|26,781.15 |

|Appreciation of Funds |

|-19,039.20 |

|Interest | |

|Checking |

|3.20 |

|Savings |

|26.85 |

|Federal MM |

|0.07 |

|Intermediate |

|1,788.84 |

|Balanced Index |

|1,982.13 |

|Life Strategy |

|2,340.40 |

|Star Fund |

|5,263.68 |

|Wellesely |

|4,162.29 |

|Wellington |

|6,312.27 |

|Interest - Other |

|0.00 |

|Total Interest |

|21,879.73 |

|Total Income |

|33,951.68 |

|Expense | |

|Endowment Fund Expense |

|4,330.00 |

|Global Missions | |

|Rev K.K. Alavi |

|3,250.00 |

|EEMN |

|360.00 |

|Global HEalth Care |

|360.00 |

|Lutheran Malaria Initiative |

|360.00 |

|Total Global Missions |

|4,330.00 |

|Regional Missions | |

|Institute for Lutheran Theology 1,080.00 |

|Abdul |

|1,080.00 |

|Faith Lutheran College Scholars 1,800.00 |

|Green Lake Bible Camp 2,000.00 |

|Total Regional Missions |

|5,960.00 |

|Local Missions | |

|Common Cup |

|2,170.00 |

|FL Christian Counseling Fund 540.00|

|Faith Life Camp |

|540.00 |

|Club 218 |

|540.00 |

|Prayer Shawl Ministry |

|250.00 |

|Total Local Missions |

|4,040.00 |

|FLC for Special Mission Needs | |

|Youth Mission Trip 1,730.00|

|Rev K.K. Alavi Support |Jan - Dec 15 |

| |870.00 |

|Total FLC for Special Mission Needs |2,600.00 |

|Total Expense |21,260.00 |

|Net Income |12,691.68 |

|2:30 PM Faith Lutheran Church Endowment Fund |

|01/01/16 Balance Sheet Prev Year Comparison |

|Accrual Basis | |

|As of December 31, 2015 | |

|ASSETS | | | | |

|Current Assets Checking/Savings | | | | |

| |December 31, 2015 | |December 31, 2014 | |

|Citizens Bank & Trust Checking |22,306.86 | |452.51 | |

|Citizens Bank & Trust Savings Vanguard |35,034.20 | |24,831.55 | |

|Vanguard Balanced Index Fund |94,637.03 | |96,126.87 | |

|Vanguard Federal Money Market |435.10 | |435.10 | |

|Vanguard Intermediate Term Trea |81,067.86 | |81,859.82 | |

|Vanguard Life Strategy Growth |72,994.36 | |75,449.33 | |

|Vanguard Star Fund |93,581.08 | |98,925.13 | |

|Vanguard Wellesley Income Fund |73,495.98 | |76,638.73 | |

|Vanguard Wellington Fund |95,883.77 | |102,025.52 | |

|Total Vanguard |512,095.18 | |531,460.50 | |

|Total Checking/Savings |569,436.24 | |556,744.56 | |

|Total Current Assets |569,436.24 | |556,744.56 | |

|TOTAL ASSETS |569,436.24 | |556,744.56 | |

|LIABILITIES & EQUITY |  | |  | |

|Equity | | | | |

|Original Contributions |341,416.62 |341,416.62 | |

|Cumulative 20% Income Reinvest |69,371.93 |69,371.93 | |

|Balance Equity |62,614.83 |62,614.83 | |

|Unrestricted Net Assets |83,341.18 |57,590.93 | |

|Net Income |12,691.68 |25,750.25 | |

|Total Equity 569,436.24 | |

|556,744.56 | |

|TOTAL LIABILITIES & EQUITY 569,436.24 | |

|556,744.56 | |

| | | | | |

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our mission is:

Building FAITH

“Equip the saints for the work of ministry, for building up the Body of Christ”

Ephesians 4:12.

To live out that mission, God calls us to:

Follow Jesus

Announce the Gospel

Invite all people

Teach Christian truth

Help all who are in need

our mission is:

Building FAITH

“Equip the saints for the work of ministry,

for building up the Body of Christ”

Ephesians 4:12

To live out that mission, God calls us to:

Follow Jesus

Announce the Gospel

Invite all people

Teach Christian truth

Help all who are in need

A District of Lutheran Congregations in Mission for Christ (LCMC)

Augustana District * 335 Main Street South * Hutchinson, MN 55350



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