Redeemer Lutheran Church Waverly, IA Completed:

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1 Redeemer Lutheran Church Waverly, IA Completed: The Ministry Site Profile (MSP) is intended for use by congregations and church-related organizations that are seeking to call an ordained or lay rostered minister of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America, or a First Call candidate for rostered ministry. Congregations must complete the entire MSP. Church-related organizations may, with the concurrence of the synod bishop, complete only the required sections (Part I, III and IV). Once complete, this form is submitted electronically to your synod bishop for review and posting to the Current Openings listing on the ELCA website ( PART I: WHO WE ARE Name and Location Summary Description A pastor who enjoys inspiring spiritual life, presenting informative sermons, and encouraging Bible study would find fulfillment at Redeemer. The congregation hopes for a pastor who establishes relationships with members from youth through seniors. Members seek affirmation in discovering, developing, and sharing their gifts. Because it is financially sound, Redeemer plans to complete in 2017 an entry/kitchen project to enhance its facility for service. Waverly is a growing Iowa town in an ELCA heartland. CONGREGATION Redeemer Lutheran Church CONGREGATION/MULTIPLE POINT PARISH/ ORGANIZATION NAME CONG ID Waverly, IA, US CITY, STATE, ZIP COUNTRY Northeastern Iowa Synod (5F) Congregation - Organized 1965 SYNOD TYPE OF MINISTRY SITE YEAR ORGANIZED Small city (10,000-49,999) SIZE OF COMMUNITY Contact Information Ministry Site (preferred contact information) 2001 West Bremer Ave. Waverly, IA, US ADDRESS LINE 1 ADDRESS LINE 2 CITY, STATE, ZIP COUNTRY redeemer@redeemerwaverly.org ly.org (319) WEB SITE PHONE FAX Chairperson of Congregation or Head of the Organization Carol Young NAME 2412 First Ave. N.W. Waverly, IA, US ADDRESS LINE 1 ADDRESS LINE 2 CITY, STATE, ZIP COUNTRY (319) (319) /8/2017 4:59:21 PM Page 1 of 12

2 DAY PHONE EVENING PHONE CELL PHONE FAX Chairperson of Call or Search Committee Dr. Larry Van Daalen NAME 1513 Knoll Ridge Dr. Waverly, IA, US ADDRESS LINE 1 ADDRESS LINE 2 CITY, STATE, ZIP COUNTRY (319) (319) (319) DAY PHONE EVENING PHONE CELL PHONE FAX dreyevan@aol.com Demographics Language Spoken In the congregation/ organization In the surrounding community Race/ Ethnicity (In the Congregation) English PRIMARY LANGUAGE SECOND LANGUAGE THIRD LANGUAGE English PRIMARY LANGUAGE SECOND LANGUAGE THIRD LANGUAGE Caucasian (95%) African American (0%) Asian / Pacific Islander (0%) LARGEST SECOND THIRD FOURTH COMMENTS OR EXPLANATION African American 2%, Asian/Pacific 2%, multiracial 1% Race/ Ethnicity (Surrounding Community) Caucasian (95%) African American (0%) Hispanic (0%) LARGEST SECOND THIRD FOURTH COMMENTS OR EXPLANATION African American 1.7%, multiracial 1.4%, Hispanic 1.3%, Asian 1.2%, Native American 0.1% Gender comparison Age distribution 48% 52% 25% 15% 15% 20% 25% MALE FEMALE 19 YEARS OR YOUNGER OVER 65 Number of Paid Staff CLERGY LAY ROSTERED OTHER LAY PROFESSIONALS SECRETARIAL SUPPORT CUSTODIAL SUPPORT OTHER Congregational Information Single site 7/8/2017 4:59:21 PM Page 2 of 12

3 AVE WEEKLY WORSHIP ATTENDANCE AVE ATTENDANCE IN CHRISTIAN EDUCATION PARISH TYPE Distance members live from church facilities: 10% 30% 30% 30% 1/2 MILE OR LESS 1/2-1 MILE 1-3 MILES MORE THAN 3 MILES Community Type Bedroom community College or University Farming Inner City Mining/logging Ranching Industrial Resort Retirement Budget of the Congregation/ Organization 2016 $452,000 $0 TOTAL BUDGET FOR THE LAST FISCAL YEAR LAST FISCAL YEAR $66,709 $1,366,870 MISSION SUPPORT TO THE ELCA/ SYNOD FOR THE LAST FISCAL YEAR TOTAL DEBT OF THE CONGREGATION/ ORGANIZATION AT THE END OF THE LAST FISCAL YEAR TOTAL SAVINGS, RESERVES, ENDOWMENT AT THE END OF THE LAST FISCAL YEAR PART II: OUR VISION FOR MISSION Trends in the Community Context of the Congregation or Organization Characteristics: Write a description of your community in terms of socio-economic status, demographics, primary areas of employment and lifestyle. The Demographic ZIP Code report for your primary ZIP codes may be helpful. Waverly is a town of just over 10,000 people. Its high school graduation rate is 95.3 percent and nearly 38 percent of its residents hold a bachelor s degree or higher. Wartburg College is in the center of the town and partners with the city in many quality of life areas. One is the Waverly Sports and Wellness Center, which opened in 2007 with 200,000 square feet of WOW for residents and students. This town has enjoyed great success in competitive sports at high school and college levels. Additional activities include youth programming, two golf courses, bike trails, area parks, and nearby camping. Of course, the Cedar River running through the town adds beauty and an appeal for fishing and boating. Waverly is close to Waterloo with a population of 68,400 and Cedar Falls, 39,300. Within minutes drive are an airport, additional restaurants, Division I sports, and a list of entertainment. Other popular activities include the music, theatre, and speaker programs at Wartburg College and the Wartburg Community Symphony. Summer sees music in the park, which includes talent from high schools and individuals within and surrounding the community. Many created organizations excel at organizing events such as Heritage Days, Night Out (sponsored by the Police Department), Octoberfest, and Art in the Park. This is a community that serves its residents. The median household income is $61,506, and the median value of a home is $160,000. A strong faith community offers at least 16 Christian churches. This faith community does not expect a great quality of life; it strives for it. Trends: List three changes or trends within the congregation or organization which have occurred in the last three to five years. Baptized membership is up 10.2 percent the last 10 years, perhaps reflecting dated membership lists. Redeemer has a strong core membership committed to the life of the church; however, worship attendance has declined from an average of 329 per week (2006) to 212 (2016). This lack of attendance may relate to the resignation, retirement, and 7/8/2017 4:59:21 PM Page 3 of 12

4 transition of long term pastors beginning in Certainly the change in ministerial positions in the past ten years including lead minister, associate minister, and youth directors has been difficult. The congregation is coming to terms with its own negative reaction to these changes and taking ownership to recreate the more positive environment that was traditionally enjoyed. This hopeful attitude for the church is reflected in regular giving by the members. Redeemer saw $515,591 in regular giving in 2008 spiking to $540,156 (2012) with most recent figures at $452,812 (2016). Steady income for the church is important to the members and remains constant. The financial health of the church can also be found in its cash reserve that stands in excess of $1.36 million (2016). The church is moving forward with stability in youth ministry through a full-time youth director. New members and established members become involved in the youth programming, especially confirmation. A palpable recognition that the needs of our youth must be served is being met with enthusiasm. Context: List three ways that the community in which you are located has been challenged by change and transition in the last three to five years. In 2008, this area and the city experienced flooding that affected many homes and businesses. Citizens gathered in great numbers to help those in need. The city government aggressively pursued flood mitigation, which saved the value of many of those homes. Flood mitigation installed an inflatable dam and enhanced the dry runs, collaterally beautifying them. By the time the project was complete in 2016, they withstood the most recent rising waters with great efficiency. This city draws interest and has increased its population by 100 people per year. Businesses that attract employees include the insurance industry, healthcare (hospital and clinics), manufacturing (food, production machining, kitchen utensils), and education (Division III ELCA college and K-12 school district). The city also added broadband within the city utilities to serve continued growth. Demographically, the city is closely divided in percentage among the age groups. This manifests in increasing enrollment in schools, constant housing development, and an excellent market for upscale retirement housing. Programs: Describe your congregation's or organization's current programs for mission and ministry. Redeemer has traditional programs of Sunday school, confirmation, youth activities, worship, and mission. Redeemer has a SAFE policy for the protection of children. The Sunday school program is currently involved in reorganizing and is a need area. Redeemer is very strong in caring and supporting its members. The congregation is creating new programs and service opportunities for the membership and the community large and small. Along with 15 percent of regular giving going to support the ELCA and synod, Redeemer members offer themselves for Habitat for Humanity projects. Redeemer is helping to fund an ELCA English teacher in Hungry and is forming a Ride Program for those having difficulty with transportation. This is a sample of the programs listed on page 17 of the 2016 Annual Report. For many decades, Redeemer has made its facilities available to the synod and community organizations. Goals: What are the primary goals of your ministry site (please refer to any Strategic Plan that has been adopted). Redeemer s mission statement is to deepen the spiritual life of each member of God s family while serving our community for Christ. Guided by this mission, the congregation focuses on four areas of ministry. Each area has specific objectives, strategies, and measurements of progress Worship (to connect with God and each other) with objectives of increasing spirituality, raising worship attendance, and increasing membership. Education (to provide opportunities for Christian growth) with objectives of offering comprehensive Bible education and encouraging mentoring opportunities. Fellowship (to become associated with others) with objectives of building congregational relationships, enhancing community spirit, and meeting spiritual needs. Service (serving God through time, talent, and treasure) with objectives of involving members in serving others, reaching inactive members and unchurched people, and ministering to others. These areas, which remain on Redeemer s website, were identified in 2006, after a variety of large- and small-group meetings. The result was a document that contained goals, objectives, strategies, and measures. A youth and family ministry task force created its vision, and a facility assessment task force developed recommendations. Committees made progress toward the goals. Energy: What is your congregation or organization really excited about right now? Congregation members are eager to call a pastor. 7/8/2017 4:59:21 PM Page 4 of 12

5 A prominent Redeemer member died in 2014 and blessed the congregation with an $860,000 bequest. The congregation voted to place 60 percent of the gift in Redeemer s trust fund, designate 25 percent into an Opportunity Fund managed by Redeemer s council, and gift 15 percent through Redeemer s mission and outreach committee. This committee has used the gift to fund roll up your sleeves projects that allow members to share their time and talents. Examples are projects with Global Health Ministries, sponsorship of a teacher/missionary in Hungary through the Northeastern Iowa Synod s partnership, and construction of a new Habitat for Humanity House. Ride/Share, a transportation assistance project, is in progress. To enhance its mission, the congregation voted to update its kitchen and north entrance. It added a preschool/community playground in 2016 and in 2017 is installing a basketball court. The congregation is excited to know it will have a member beginning seminary in September Partnership: How does this congregation or organization see itself as a member and active participant in the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America and the synod? Redeemer demonstrates its partnership each year by contributing 15 percent of its envelope offering to the Northeastern Iowa Synod and ELCA. This is a congregation tradition. Redeemer offers use of its facilities to the synod, its next-door neighbor. Each year, the congregation sends voting members to synod assemblies, and members have served on synod boards and committees. Redeemer sponsors Anne Skivington, who teaches English at a secondary Lutheran school in Aszod, Hungary. The Evangelical Lutheran Church in Hungary is one of the synod s companion synods. Redeemer also participates in ecumenical projects, such as Saints Café, a weekly free community meal. 7/8/2017 4:59:21 PM Page 5 of 12

6 Ministry Site Characteristics A LOT LIKE US AS A COMMUNITY A LITTLE A LITTLE LIKE US LIKE US A LOT LIKE US We tend to be formal and programmatic. We tend to be informal and spontaneous. We have clearly defined goals and plans for our future. We have no stated goals or plans. We are racially and economically diverse. We are demographically homogeneous. We welcome ideas that are provoking and challenging. OUR LEADERSHIP STYLE We prefer ideas that are tried and true. We rely on our leaders for direction. We rely on group decision-making. We have learned how to use conflict constructively. Our facilities are often used by community groups. We tend to perceive conflict as something destructive. OUR PROGRAMMING Our facilities are only used for our activities. We train people to minister outside our walls. We train people to minister inside our walls. We focus on ideas and beliefs. We focus on skills and action. We are obviously Lutheran in identify and practice. OUR THEOLOGICAL PERSPECTIVE We are less obvious about our Lutheran heritage. We participate in synod and ELCA activities. We are not very active in the synod and ELCA. We focus on Biblical studies and doctrine. We focus on contemporary issues and topics. 7/8/2017 4:59:21 PM Page 6 of 12

7 Purpose, Giftedness and Mission Purpose Giftedness Mission How does this congregation or organization understand its reason for being in the light of God's call to mission and service? Who are you? Why are you here? SPIRITUALITY Redeemer believes that God s Son, Jesus Christ, transforms lives through His death on the cross and His new life. Members trust that God s Spirit is active in the world. Redeemer seeks to deepen the spirituality of its members to understand God s family and its role within. WORSHIP Worship is crucial to that understanding. Worship is not considered static but a pursuit worth reexamining and adjusting as the congregation continues to realize the word of God. Members do not wholly depend on pastoral responsibilities for worship, but worship is pastor centric. Music is a strong avenue that members use to show Christ s love. EDUCATION Education grows the church community and its worship and service activities. Education begins with Sunday school and never ends. Lay leaders of the church create and engage in groups and programs that worship and educate simultaneously. What are your gifts and resources for fulfilling this purpose? What are the congregation s or organization's top three assets and how are they being used? Are there obstacles that must be overcome to be able to use these gifts and accomplish the mission? SERVICE Redeemer lives out the gift of ministry. Members volunteer to provide meals, build houses, engage in mission outreach, and participate in global health, to name a few. When a goal is achieved, another goal is set. MUSIC Members of the congregation share their gifts. Redeemer s talented people enjoy using music to enhance worship as vocalists, instrumentalists, and worship leaders. FACILITIES Redeemer s gift of facilities includes a worshipful sanctuary. It and the rest of Redeemer s accessible facilities are available to congregation and community groups needing a place to meet. The congregation is dedicated to sharing its facilities. MEMBERS The congregation has experienced irregularity in its pastoral leadership and in some support staff positions. During these times, members strengths have provided stability and produced growth in some areas. FINANCIAL SECURITY Deliberate efficiency has created financial security a big reason why the congregation feels stable. The congregation just passed a motion to renovate its kitchen and update its north entry and reception area. In light of the way you have described your ministry context in this Ministry Site Profile, what are the top three mission priorities which, if accomplished, hold the most promise for the continued development of this ministry? EDUCATION A primary mission is to instruct youth and create for them a strong Christian foundation. The congregation fosters an inquisitive mind toward the word of God and teachings of Jesus. FELLOWSHIP Youth instruction goes hand in hand with providing Christian community that is steeped in fellowship. SERVICE The congregation continues to create ways for members to share their faith, strength, and energy with others through service. SPIRITUALITY These lead back to the core of the congregation s existence to worship God, increase spirituality, and share with others inside and outside the congregation. References Synodical Bishop Steven Ullestad Northeastern Iowa Synod ullestads@neiasynod.org NAME SYNOD (319) (319) DAY PHONE EVENING PHONE CELL FAX 7/8/2017 4:59:21 PM Page 7 of 12

8 Inside Congregation or organization Al Charlson Retired, previously trust officer at State Bank of Waverly NAME ORGANIZATION AND TITLE (319) (319) DAY PHONE EVENING PHONE CELL FAX Outside Congregation or organization Nancy Bonordan Former member now living in Central Iowa NAME ORGANIZATION AND TITLE DAY PHONE EVENING PHONE CELL FAX Member of the ELCA Clergy roster Darrel Gerrietts Retired, previously assistant to bishop, Northeastern Iowa Synod NAME ORGANIZATION AND TITLE (319) DAY PHONE EVENING PHONE CELL FAX Anyone else who knows your setting well Christina (Tina) Vaughan Program manager, Holden Village NAME SYNOD (319) DAY PHONE EVENING PHONE CELL FAX PART III: LEADERSHIP NEEDS The Leader we Seek Roster Type: Minister of Word and Sacrament Minister of Word and Service In Candidacy/First Call Solo Pastor Master's Degree (seminary or graduate school) Full time call POSITION TYPE: MINIMUM DEGREE REQUIRED: FULL TIME/PART TIME: Language Proficiencies English/Fluent PRIMARY LANGUAGE (PROFICIENCY) SECOND LANGUAGE (PROFICIENCY) THIRD LANGUAGE (PROFICIENCY) Experience: 0-3 years 4-9 years years years 21 + years 7/8/2017 4:59:21 PM Page 8 of 12

9 Top Five Ministry Tasks The five most critical tasks required in this position. Administration Building a Sense of Community Campus / Young Adult Ministry Chaplaincy Children's Ministry Christian Education Communications/ Media Community Organizing Conflict Management Counseling/ Social Work Early Childhood Administration Ecumenical Work Evangelism/ Mission Financial Management Global Service Innovation / Creativity Interim Ministry Interpret Theology Inter-personal Climate Ministry in Crisis Ministry in Daily Life Ministry with Seniors Multicultural Ministry Music / Worship / Arts Outdoor/ Camping Ministry Parish Nurse / Health Participant in the Larger Church Pastoral Care and Visitation Preaching / Worship Public Policy / Advocacy Recruit and Equip Leaders Self Care / Family Life Small Group Ministry Social Ministry Spiritual Formation / Direction Stewardship Strategic Mission Planning Teaching Volunteer Coordination Youth and Family Ministry Gifts for Ministry The five gifts essential in this position, and the five that are very helpful in this position. Top Priority Help people develop their spiritual life. Help people understand and act upon issues of social justice. Provide care and nurture. Be active in visitation of members and non-members. Be effective in working with children. Build a sense of community among the people with whom he/she works. Help others develop their leadership abilities and skills for ministry. Be an effective administrator. Be an effective communicator. Be an effective teacher. Encourage support of the Church's wider mission. Work regularly in the development of stewardship growth. Be active in ecumenical relationships. Be effective in working with youth. Organize people for community action. Very Helpful 7/8/2017 4:59:21 PM Page 9 of 12

10 Be skilled in planning and leading programs. Have a strong commitment and loyalty to the Lutheran Church. Understand and interpret the mission of the Church from a global perspective. Deal effectively with conflict. Bring joy and good humor to relationships. Be able to share leadership and work in a team. Be creative and innovative about his or her tasks. Be able to use technology and media. Appreciate cultural diversity in language and customs. Have talents in the areas of music, arts and writing. Mutual Expectations Please list the five primary areas of activity or focus that you wish your newly-called rostered leader to give special attention to during the first year of his or her ministry at this congregation or organization: A. Become acquainted with members. Redeemer is especially aware that its youth have experienced many changes in pastoral staff and in youth leadership. The congregation feels that youth are ready and deserve to feel that the leaders with whom they establish relationships will be there for them in the future. Indeed, all members want to experience that feeling. As Redeemer members face health issues and family changes, they yearn for a pastoral relationship that understands their situation. B. Get to know Redeemer. It is important to know the constitution, by-laws, SAFE policy, committee structure, Bible study groups, youth groups, history, and tradition. This takes time, insight, and reflection. C. Establish a working relationship with staff members, together with a time and procedure for weekly updates with each staff person. D. Learn the community. Spend time with leaders at the Northeastern Iowa Synod, St. Paul's Lutheran Church and School (the other ELCA congregation in Waverly), Wartburg College and its campus ministry, Bremwood and its chaplain, Bartels Retirement Communities and its chaplain, Waverly-Shell Rock Schools, Chamber of Commerce, etc. These contacts can suggest ways that Redeemer can intersect with the community. E. Share your strengths. The Spirit will help you become aware of how your talent and skills can further Redeemer s ministry. Please list the five ways that this congregation / organization will support and encourage the rostered leader during the first year in order to help her or him accomplish these responsibilities: A. The congregation will pray for you and your ministry among us. B. Congregation members and groups will extend invitations to you to join them and/or accompany them. Members will welcome you. C. Open communication will be encouraged. D. Congregation members seem eager to receive a new pastor. They will strive to be receptive to new ideas. E. The congregation wants to worship with open hearts, eager for the Holy Spirit to work among us. Compensation 7/8/2017 4:59:21 PM Page 10 of 12

11 No PARSONAGE SOCIAL SECURITY TAX OFFSET Synod Guidelines MAXIMUM AMOUNT AVAILABLE FOR DEFINED COMPENSATION Benefits 4 weeks PENSION MEDICAL VACATION WEEKS No SABBATICAL POLICY PARENTAL LEAVE POLICY ARE BACKGROUND CHECKS REQUIRED Professional Expenses AUTO / TRAVEL REIMBURSEMENT No FIRST CALL THEOLOGICAL EDUCATION PROFESSIONAL EXPENSES ACCOUNT CONTINUING EDUCATION Comments: Please offer any comment or explanation regarding the compensation package, especially as it compares to synodical recommendations or guidelines. Redeemer is committed to following Synod guidelines as much as possible. Housing allowance is provided. Professional expense account is negotiable. First Call Theological Education is probably not relevant to Redeemer's call. Other Supporting Resources Are you able to supply the following items, if requested? Mission and Vision statement of the congregation or organization Printed history of the congregation or organization Strategic Plan: Goals and Objectives Budget Annual Report Position description: Duties and Responsibilities Communications Piece (publicity, newsletter, etc.) 7/8/2017 4:59:21 PM Page 11 of 12

12 PART IV: COMMENTARY You are encouraged to offer information or commentary that will help the reader appreciate the vision, opportunities, challenges and nature of your ministry site. Use this opportunity to creatively promote and commend your ministry possibilities. Please refer to "Seven Reflections on Ministry and Context" for information about Redeemer's finances, history, partnerships, conflict, and physical facilities. PART V: COMPLETION OF PROFILE Discernment Process and Adoption Please describe the process used to gather information, formulate responses, and officially adopt this Ministry Site Profile. (Approximately 100 words maximum). The five appointed members of the team were announced at Redeemer s Annual Meeting January Their names and contact information were printed weekly, and congregation member comments were solicited. The team began with discernment and prayer, then researched, wrote, and collaborated at 12 team sessions. A printed survey mailed to each household (300) requested input about Redeemer s ministry site characteristics and top ministry tasks with space for comments. All congregation members were invited to small group sessions to identify priority ministry gifts; 12 small groups participated. The profile and summary were approved by the executive committee and council and made available to congregation members who wished to review them. The Summary for Congregational Endorsement received the congregation's ratification. Enter the date on which this Ministry Site Profile was adopted by vote of the Congregation Council or organization's board: CALL PROCESS ADMINISTRATOR The name of the person on the synod staff that the bishop has designated as the Call Process Administrator for this call process. Rev. Stephen Brackett NAME Assistant to the Bishop TITLE (319) bracketts@neiasynod.org 5/16/2017 OFFICE PHONE Reference's Recommendation Christina (Tina) Vaughan NAME chr.vaughan@gmail.com DAY PHONE EVENING PHONE (319) CELL FAX 7/8/2017 4:59:21 PM Page 12 of 12