ROCKY MOUNTAIN DISTRICT LUTHERAN CHURCH MISSOURI SYNOD

Transcription

1 51 ST CONVENTION ROCKY MOUNTAIN DISTRICT LUTHERAN CHURCH MISSOURI SYNOD SECTION III CONTENTS 2 Report of the District President 4 District President Statistical Report 16 Board of Directors Chairman Report 17 Reports of the Circuit Visitors 31 Rocky Mountain District LWML 32 Report of Congregational Services 33 Financial Report 36 Debt Assistance Committee 37 Scholarship Committee 38 School Ministry Committee 39 District Constitution Committee 40 SOAR 41 Disability Ministry Task Force 42 Lutheran Church Extension Fund SECTION III PAGE

2 REPORT OF THE DISTRICT PRESIDENT Declare His Glory should be easy as we bask in the grace of God solely in the gift and merit of His Son, our Savior, Jesus Christ. We deserve nothing except eternal death and damnation. He paid the price of scorn, suffering, and death to give us life, life eternal. Again, with His promise of forgiveness, life, and salvation to Declare His Glory should be easy, responding joyfully. Still, in our fallen world, our sinful nature, we are attacked by Satan himself where he tempts and works to hurt and destroy souls. All the more reason to Declare his glory among the nations, his marvelous works among all the peoples! (Psalms 96:3 ESV) The 51st Convention of the Rocky Mountain District is just another opportunity for the congregations, who are the Rocky Mountain District, to live the Words of the Psalmist of Psalm 96:3! The prayer is to continue to praise God for the faith He has given, the grace He has bestowed, and for His Holy Word which offers His blessings to all who believe. The fact is sisters and brothers we ask the Lord in prayer for so much and He gives so much more! As we look at each congregation and the mission and ministry opportunities that are within our District it demonstrates the Theme of this convention. The Board of Directors for the Rocky Mountain District adopted a wonderful mission and ministry opportunities that are in action. Two of those fall under the Gospel Gap understanding for congregations and circuits to reach out in mission and ministry. Both just happen to be in the Albuquerque area; they are God Cares for You. A mission and ministry outreach to those in need of help in the neighborhood as well as those on the street. The ministry is touching lives by providing Bible Study, gathering for meals, and giving of needed clothing. Taking the lead in this ministry for the Gospel Gap in the circuit is Christ Lutheran with also several volunteers from Immanuel Lutheran in Albuquerque. The other is the Mission Congregation start of St. Andrews. (Please read the giving opportunity for the convention.) This was also started as a Gospel Gap mission/ministry after doing demographics of the area and much ground work. The congregation of Faith In Christ took the lead with their pastor along with other circuit pastors leading worship in the store front made worship place. Faith In Christ Lutheran Church partnered with District through the Gospel Gap and The Lutheran Church Missouri Synod to call Pastor Adam DeGroot. Pastor DeGroot and his family are anxiously waiting to begin this mission/ministry. As of this report we are working to get him and his family moved to Albuquerque and start his ministry at St. Andrews. The Board also adopted to take the opportunity to partner with the Lutheran Church Missouri Synod for International Missions in the Country of Belize. (Again, please read the giving opportunity for the convention.) In 2015, The LCMS Office of International Mission called Pastor Meissner to Latin America. We are working alongside him as he builds on the work of the Belize Mission Society (Recognized Service Organization) that has been sending mission teams to the village since This mission and ministry as well as St. Andrews truly is in the framework Declare His Glory! The Board of Directors continues to access the needs of professional church workers and how we best can serve our workers. We are looking at immediate and long terms concerns that the church worker and their families encounter. There are so many facets to the needs, concerns, and to how to help where we can with the worker and their family. We are asking other Districts what they are doing and how that works for them. What this means and how this can be done is still in the process of being researched. The goal is to have some resources for our church workers when the need (s) arise. SECTION III PAGE 2

3 REPORT OF THE DISTRICT PRESIDENT We were blessed to have Mr. Doug Ullmann as our Executive of Administration but in September 2017 he took another position in one of our congregations, Our Father in Centennial, Colorado. We are thankful for all he has done for the District. We are truly blessed that we have retained him as our account/bookkeeper (part time) so we have continued all District functions with our finances. The other duties of that position have been absorbed by our very dedicated and talented staff of Pastor Paul Albers, Congregational Services Executive and Monique Hjalmquist, assistance as Executive Secretary to the President and Congregational Services Executive. I personally am blessed to work with a team of wonderful folks who first and foremost love the Lord, are dedicated to serve Him and Declare His Glory! A very special thank you to everyone who has worked hard to bring together this our 51st convention. Once again, a huge thank you goes out to Pastor Paul Albers, Congregational Services Executive and Monique Hjalmquist, Executive Secretary to the President and Congregational Services Executive. Their time, talents, and patience is a great gift to me as well as to the District. The details, the mailings, the keeping track of all the paper work, and organizing of everything is a major task, Thank you for your endeavors in all the above. Thank you to Rock of Ages Lutheran Church, of Colorado Springs for being our host congregation for the Convention and opening worship service. Thank you to their pastor, Pastor James Maxwell for organizing the opening worship service and all the people involved in the opening service. Thank you Steve Hakes for being our organist for the convention and arranging for the special music instrumentalist. Thank you my brothers for conducting the devotions during the convention. Another huge thank you to all who are serving on the floor committees and other capacities. Last, but certainly most important is THANKS to each of you for taking and making time for this important event in the life of the church, our District, and Synod. You are awesome! The Rocky Mountain District is vast in area, diverse in culture and setting, touching the lives of people of different races and colors, from small to large parishes. The Rocky Mountain District is not an office in Aurora, Colorado; but The Rocky Mountain District is made up from every congregation. You are the District! You are the ones whose mission and ministry is important in your place and to each of us throughout the District. Whether you are in El Paso, Texas, Eastern New Mexico to Western New Mexico, to the Navajo Nation, to the reaching over to Page, Arizona moving into the entire state of Utah, going along western area of Colorado through the mountains to the eastern and southern areas of Colorado to Big Springs, Nebraska; you are the Rocky Mountain District. Wow! The Rocky Mountain District is amazing! In closing I fail to find the words to express what my heart feels as we together Declare his glory among the nations, his marvelous works among all the peoples! I am... In Christ s love and service, Rev. Allen Anderson President, Rocky Mountain District SECTION III PAGE 3

4 PRESIDENT S STATISTICAL REPORT PASTORAL CHANGES WITHIN THE DISTRICT REV. THOMAS M. BARTON, candidate status, El Paso, TX to Grace, El Paso, TX, installed by Rev. Donovan W. Heithold, November 13, REV. THOMAS M. BARTON, Grace, El Paso, TX to Grace/Trinity, Cheyenne Wells/Kit Carson, CO, installed by Rev. Gary Rahe, February 18, REV. DENNIS G. FITZPATRICK, Pastor, Emmaus, Denver, CO to St. John s, Yuma, CO, installed by Rev. Trenton Christensen, October 23, REV. ANTHONY BRIAN FLAMME, Assoc. Pastor, Hope, Aurora, CO to Immanuel, Roswell, NM, installed by Rev. Gary Piepkorn, November 19, REV. ROBERT D. HARMON, candidate status, Aurora, CO to Sr. Admin Pastor, Mt. Olive, Aurora, CO, installed by Rev. Joseph Murphy, December 20, REV. CARLTON K. HEIN, candidate status, Milliken, CO to Mt. Zion, Castle Rock, CO, installed by Rev. Dwight Hellmers, August 16, DR. CRAIG W. HENNINGFIELD, Pastor, Evang. Lutheran Church Without Walls, Lakewood, CO to Concordia, Steamboat Springs, CO, installed by Rev. Michael Paulison, November 22, DR. GEORGE NAEEM, Asst. Pastor, Shepherd of the Hills, Centennial, CO to Missionary, Biblical Orthodox Lutheran Mission (RSO), Highlands Ranch, CO, installed by Rev. Allen Anderson, May 6, REV. ROBERT OELTJEN, candidate status to Faith, Craig, CO, installed by Rev. David Fischer, November 19, REV. CRAIG ALLEN PATTERSON, Sr. Admin Pastor, Mt. Olive, Aurora, CO to Messiah, Longmont, CO, installed by Rev. Allen D. Anderson, July 12, REV. ROBERT W. PAUL, Assoc. Pastor, Immanuel, Roswell, NM to Pastor, Immanuel, Roswell, NM, installed by Rev. Andrew Dimit, June 28, REV. DANIEL E. ROHLWING, Assoc. Pastor, Gracious Savior, Edwards, CO to Grace Fellowship, Gypsum, CO, August 6, REV. JONATHAN GLENN SCHULTZ, Our Savior, Vernal, UT to Mount Calvary, Estes Park, CO, installed by Rev. Allen D. Anderson, February 12, REV. THOMAS J. THIERFELDER, Messiah, Aspen, CO to Faith, Carbondale, CO, installed by Rev. Allen D. Anderson, September 26, REV. GREGORY NOEL THOMPSON, Emeritus, Westminster, CO to Mount Zion, Denver, CO, installed by Rev. Allen D. Anderson, February 28, REV. RICHARD VON STEINMANN, Hope, Westcliffe, CO to First English, Sterling, CO, installed by Rev. Allen D. Anderson, January 08, PASTORS TRANSFERRED BY OTHER DISTRICTS REV. DALE ANDREW BECKER, Pastor, St. Paul, Farmington Hills, MI to Faith, Buena Vista, CO, installed by Rev. Douglas Brauner, February 26, EV. TYREL E. BRAMWELL, Pastor, Our Savior/First, Chester/Greenville, GA to Christ, Murray, UT, installed by Rev. David Fischer, September 13, REV. STEVEN THOMAS CHOLAK, Asst. Pastor, Messiah, Keller, TX to Immanuel, Roswell, NM, installed by Rev. Gary Piepkorn, August 07, REV. ADAM DEGROOT, Shepherd of the city, Philadelphia, PA to Faith (St. Andrew s Mission Plant) Albuquerque, NM, installed by Rev. Allen D. Anderson, April 8, REV. ANDREW FARHAT, St. Paul, Roseburg, OR to Assoc. Pastor, St. John s, Denver, CO, installed by Rev. Dr. Michael Eckelkamp, March 18, REV. JAMES FRANCIS FERNANDEZ, Assoc. Pastor, St. Paul, Ankeny, IA to Redeemer, Denver, CO, installed by Rev. Allen D. Anderson, July 26, REV. JOSHUA J. HAYES, Pastor, St. John, Crete, NE to University Lutheran Chapel, Boulder, CO, installed by Rev. Allen D. Anderson, May 08, SECTION III PAGE 4

5 PRESIDENT S STATISTICAL REPORT PASTORS TRANSFERRED BY OTHER DISTRICTS REV. TOM HENKES, Emeritus, Pacific Southwest District to Shepherd of the Desert, Page, AZ, installed by Rev. Steven Spencer, Salem, OR, February 25, REV. PEDRO GUSTAVO JOFRE, Missionary RSO, Lutheran Inner city Network, Houston, TX to Trinity, Sterling, CO, installed by Rev. Allen D. Anderson, March 12, REV. DUSTIN KEITH KEAR, Assoc. Pastor, St. Paul, Harlingen, TX to Immanuel, Albuquerque, NM, installed by Rev. Allen D. Anderson, August 03, REV. CHRISTOPHER E. KELLOGG, Assoc. Pastor, Our Savior, Sedalia, MO to Trinity, Gallup, NM, installed by Rev. Bror Erickson, September 10, REV. JONATHAN MARCUS KERN, Pastor, St. James, Gonzales, LA to Immanuel, Colorado Springs, CO, installed by Rev. Douglas Brauner, November 20, REV. ALSTON S. KIRK, Emeritus, Texas District to Interim Pastor, Family of Christ, Colorado Springs, CO, installed by Rev. Douglas Brauner, March 18, REV. DAVID B. MAGRUDER, Pastor, Trinity, Riverton, WY to Peace With Christ, Ft. Collins, TX, installed by Rev. Allen D. Anderson, July 31, REV. MICHAEL JAMES REDEKER, Admissions, Concordia Seminary, St. Louis, MO to Sr. Admin Pastor, Lutheran Church of Messiah, Grand Junction, CO, installed by Rev. Jonathan G. Schultz, November 22, REV. RONALD S. RIEGER, Trinity, Scarsdale, NY to Messiah, Longmont, CO, installed by Rev. Gary Rahe, April REV. DAVID D. SCHILLING, Chaplain, LCMS Board of Mission Services, St. Louis, MO to Sr. Admin Pastor, Zion, Brighton, CO, installed by Rev. Allen D. Anderson, August 09, REV. MARK A. SCHLAMANN, non-candidate status, Jansen, NE to First, Tooele, UT, installed by Rev. Allen D. Anderson, January 10, THEOLOGICAL CANDIDATES ORDAINED AND INSTALLED REV. PAUL ALFRED ALBERS, ordained and installed December 13, 2015 by Rev. Allen D. Anderson as SMP Pastor, RMD. REV. KEVIN PAUL BELTER, ordained and installed July 02, 2017 by Rev. Allen D. Anderson as Pastor, Redeemer, Salt Lake City, UT. REV. DOYLE WAYNE BOYKIN, ordained and installed January 3, 2016 by Rev. Michael Feuer as SMP Pastor, Prince of Peace, Cedar Crest, NM. REV. JASON K. CODY, ordained and installed August 30, 2015 by Rev. Allen D. Anderson as Assoc. Pastor, Trinity Alamosa, CO. REV. CALEB CHRISTIAN COX, ordained June 04, 2017 by Rev. Timothy Ahlman, Gilbert, AZ and installed June 25, 2017 by Rev. Gary Rahe as Assoc. Pastor, Redeemer, Fort Collins, CO. REV. CRAIG M. FURRY, ordained and installed December 20, 2015 by Rev. Jay Mason as SMP Pastor, Our Savior, Albuquerque, NM. REV. AUSTIN D. KRAFT, ordained and installed January 28,2018 by Rev. Daniel Rohlwing as SMP Pastor, Grace Fellowship, Gypsum, CO. REV. FRANK EDWARD JOHNSON, JR., ordained and installed January 14, 2018 by Rev. Allen D. Anderson as SMP Pastor, Redeemer, Fort Collins, CO. REV. GREGG ALAN MCCASLIN, ordained and installed January 17, 2016 by Rev. Tom Teske as SMP Pastor, Concordia, Lakewood, CO. REV. TIMOTHY PAUL NORTON, ordained and installed August 27, 2017 by Rev. Allen D. Anderson as Pastor to Shepherd of the Valley, Navajo Mission at Large, Navajo, NM. REV. PAUL EDWIN ROCKROHR, ordained and installed June 28, 2015 by Rev. Allen D. Anderson as Pastor, St. Luke s, Golden, CO. REV. WILLIAM MARSH SHAMBURGER, ordained and installed March 11, 2018 by Rev. Gary Piepkorn as SMP Pastor, Grace, Albuquerque, NM. REV. TIMOTHY JOHN WENDELIN, ordained and installed January 17, 2016 by Rev. David Langewisch as SMP Pastor, Bethlehem, Lakewood, CO. SECTION III PAGE 5

6 PRESIDENT S STATISTICAL REPORT PASTORS TRANSFERRED TO OTHER DISTRICTS REV. NORMAN B. BARNETTE, JR., Emeritus, Calhan, CO to Florida-Georgia District, November 9, REV. DAVID A. BOEHNKE, Emeritus, Casper, WY, RMD to Wyoming District, June 19, REV. MICHAEL R. BORGSTEDE, Assoc. Pastor, Mt Olive, Aurora, CO to St. John, Tonawanda, NY, April 15, REV. TYREL E. BRAMWELL, Christ, Murray, UT to St. Mark s, Ferndale, CA, December 26, REV. DANIEL GEORGE-OTTO BURHOP, University Lutheran Chapel, Boulder, CO to Trinity, Reese, MI, October 31, REV. ADAM MICHAEL BURKE, Mt. Hope, Boulder, CO to Shepherd of the Hills, Prescott, AZ, April 23, REV. SETH M. CLEMMER, Mt. Calvary, Estes Park, CO to Assoc. Pastor, Bethany, Naperville, IL, July 5, REV. MARTIN DAVIS, Grace /Trinity, Cheyenne Wells / Kit Carson, CO to St. Paul / Trinity, Battle Creek / Anthon, IA, August 17, REV. JACOB SCOTT DICKERHOFF, candidate status, Erie, CO to Beautiful Savior, Anchorage, AK, June 19, REV. BRIAN S. EARL, candidate status, Rocky Mountain District to Lutheran Congregation Chai V Shalom - St. Louis, MO, November 1, REV. GERALD W. HARROW, SMP Pastor, Redeemer, Ft Collins, CO to Church Planter, St. Paul, The Grove, TX, January 1, REV. ROBERT A. KOCH, non-candidate status, Rocky Mountain District to Nebraska District, June 23, REV. FRANCIS KOESSEL, Emeritus, Rocky Mountain District to Wyoming District, November 9, REV. MARK T. KLUZEK, Mt. Calvary, Grants, NM to St. John s/faith, Kiron/Deloit, IA, January 14, REV. TIMOTHY LAWSON, Cross of Christ, Aurora, CO to Saving Grace, Queen Creek, AZ, August 22, REV. DR. ROBERT MACINA, candidate status, Shamrock, TX, Rocky Mountain District to Texas District, May 29, REV. BRUCE R. MATZKE, Emeritus, Brentwood, CA, Rocky Mountain District to California- Nevada-Hawaii September 26, REV. MICHAEL A. MILLER, Immanuel, Clovis, NM to Bethlehem, Lebanon, OR, August 15, REV. DOUGLAS MAUSS, candidate status, St. Louis, MO to Assoc. Pastor, St. John s, Ellisville, MO, May 12, REV. CRAIG PATTERSON, Messiah, Longmont, CO to St. Paul, Wichita Falls, TX, September 1, REV. ROBERT W. PAUL, Sr. Admin Pastor, Immanuel, Roswell, NM to Assoc. Pastor/ Headmaster, Memorial, Houston, TX, June 1, REV. ARTHUR E. PETROWSKY, Emeritus, Rocky Mountain District to California-Nevada- Hawaii District, March 1, REV. CHADWICK POTTS, Christ, Breckenridge, CO to Ministry Armed Forces, Missouri District, October 12, REV. DANIEL C. PRAEUNER, Sr. Pastor, Immanuel, Roswell, NM to Grace English/ Zion, Pine Bluffs, WY/Grover, CO, September 30, REV. EDWARD RICHMEYER, Emeritus, Rocky Mountain District to Texas District, April 13, REV. BENJAMIN A. ROBERTS, Assoc. Pastor, Summit of Peace, Thornton, CO to Sr. Pastor, St. John s, La Grange, IL, August 1, REV. KURT SCHILLING, non-candidate status, Rocky Mountain District to Emmaus Evangelical, Waupaca, WI, July 17, REV. EDWARD H. SCHMIDT, Emmanuel, Rifle, CO to First, Knoxville, TN, October 16, REV. PETER J. SPALLEK, Emeritus, Rocky Mountain District to Pacific Southwest, July 1, SECTION III PAGE 6

7 PRESIDENT S STATISTICAL REPORT PASTORS TRANSFERRED TO OTHER DISTRICTS REV. THOMAS J. THIERFELDER, Faith, Carbondale, CO to Sr. Pastor, St. John s, Ellinwood, KS, December 31, REV. GARY TIMM, Gethsemane, Northglenn, CO to Redeemer, Westfield, NJ, July 5, REV. JOHN S. TURNER, Emeritus, Rocky Mountain District to Florida- Georgia District, August 1, REV. RANDY WALQUIST, Emeritus, Rocky Mountain District to Texas District, July 1, REV. STEPHEN WEEMS. SMP Pastor, St. John s, Denver, CO to SMP Pastor, St. John, Idaho Falls, ID, May 14, EMERITUS AND CANDIDATE/NON-CANDIDATE TRANSFERRED TO THE ROCKY MOUNTAIN DISTRICT REV. EDGAR WILLIAM BODE, Emeritus, South Dakota District to Rocky Mountain District, December 19, REV. KERRY D. BUTTKE, Emeritus, English District to Rocky Mountain District, January 25, REV. KEVIN JAY CRAMM, Emeritus, Oklahoma District to Rocky Mountain District, September 11, REV. LOWELL KIINDSCHY, Emeritus, Pacific Southwest District to Rocky Mountain District, September 6, REV. MELVIN J. MERTENS, Candidate Status, Nebraska District to Rocky Mountain District, July 31, REV. VERNON E. OESTMANN, Emeritus, California-Nevada-Hawaii District to Rocky Mountain District, June 08, REV. CRAIG PATTERSON, Emeritus, California-Nevada- Hawaii District to Rocky Mountain District, February 2, REV. RONALD D. PEDERSON, Emeritus, South Wisconsin District to Rocky Mountain District, March 01, REV. TERRY S. SMALL, Emeritus, Iowa East District to Rocky Mountain District, September 2, REV. ROBERT TASLER, Emeritus, Pacific Southwest District to Rocky Mountain District, March 17, REV. JEROME TROESTER, Emeritus, Nebraska District to Rocky Mountain District, October 19, PASTORS TO CANDIDATE/NON-CANDIDATE STATUS REV. KARL E. BOHMER, Mt Calvary, Gunnison, CO to candidate status, September 1, REV. KENNETH J. DESOTO, Shepherd of the Hills, Rio Rancho, NM to candidate status, April 1, REV. DAVID DYER, Family of Christ, Colorado Springs, CO to candidate status, May 1, REV. BRIAN S. EARL, candidate status to non- candidate status, July 21, REV. DAVID S. HALL, Assoc. Pastor, Holy Cross, Colorado Springs, CO to non- candidate status, April 1,2016. REV. ROBERT A. MANN, candidate status to non- candidate status, October 1, REV. KARL F. WRIGHT, Sr. Pastor, Trinity, Alamosa, CO to candidate status, November 13, SECTION III PAGE 7

8 PRESIDENT S STATISTICAL REPORT PASTORS RETIREMENTS REV. NORMAN B. BARNETTE JR., Family of Faith, Falcon, CO to Emeritus, November 6, REV. JOSEPH M. BRENNAN, Risen Christ, Arvada, CO to Emeritus, October 1, REV. BARR CHITTICK JR., Trinity, Cortez, CO to Emeritus, March 3, REV. DAVID ALLEN FISCHER, Redeemer, Salt Lake City, UT to Emeritus, July 1, REV. STEVEN A. HEIN, Assoc. Pastor, Shepherd of the Springs, Colorado Springs, CO to Emeritus, November 14, REV. DWIGHT HELLMERS, St. Luke s, Golden, CO to Emeritus, July 01, REV. FRANCIS KOESSEL, Redeemer, Deming, NM to Emeritus, February 1, REV. ROBERT A. MANN, non-candidate status to Emeritus, September 9, REV. DAN W. MUECKE, Faith, Buena Vista, CO to Emeritus, September 1, REV. ARMENIO PINEROS, Assoc. Pastor, Trintiy, Sterling, CO to Emeritus, January 1, REV. ROBERT SCHAIBLEY, Shepherd of the Springs, CO to Emeritus, August 1, REV. KENT SCHNEGELBERGER, Messiah, Longmont, CO to Emeritus, July 1, REV. PETER SPALLEK, Shepherd of the Desert/Mt Zion, Page, AZ/Kanab, UT to Emeritus, July 1, REV. THOMAS W. TESKE, Concordia, Lakewood, CO to Emeritus, September 1, REV. JOHN S. TURNER, Faith, Craig, CO to Emeritus, August 01, REV. RANDY WALQUIST, Immanuel, Albuquerque, NM to Emeritus, June 01, PASTORS RESIGNATIONS/REMOVAL FROM THE LCMS CLERGY ROSTER REV. DAVID S. HALL, candidate status, January 24, DR. STEVEN HEIN, Emeritus, August 31, REV. KEVIN L. KROHN, candidate status, November 29, REV. DOUGLAS E. MAUSS, SMP Pastor, Family of Christ, Colorado Springs, CO, August 31, REV. RALPH W.E. PATRICK, candidate status, June 22, REV. JAMES REAT, Sudanese Lutheran Church, Lakewood, CO, April 1, PASTORS DEATHS REV. JOSEPH BRENNAN, Emeritus, Arvada, CO, March 17, REV. BARR CHITTICK JR. Emeritus, Cortez, CO, September 23, REV. ALAN R. COLEMAN, Christ the King, Los Lunas, NM, April 12, REV. JAMES M. ELMSHAUSER, Zion/Immanuel, Flagler/Arriba, CO, March 1, REV. HENRY FINGERLIN, Emeritus, Centennial, CO, September 27, REV. LEVINE HAGEN, Emeritus, Rio Rancho, NM, May 4, REV. BRADLEY JAY KLEIN, Immanuel, Englewood, CO, September 13, REV. ORVILLE KROHN, Emeritus, Roswell, NM, December 4, REV. VERNON OESTMANN, Emeritus, Aurora, CO, January 21, REV. NORMAN RAEDEKE, Emeritus, Estes Park, CO, July 29, DR. FRANCIS E. ROSCHKE, Emeritus, Colorado Springs, CO, May 6, REV. STEPHEN SANDERSON, Emeritus, Pagosa Springs, CO, May 22, REV. ROBERTO SIMENTAL, Emeritus, El Paso, TX, October 13, CONGREGATIONS DISBANDED, DISSOLVED OR RESIGNED MEMBERSHIP IN LCMS Emmaus Lutheran Church, Denver, CO, disbanded/dissolved, September Grace Lutheran Church, Sugar City, CO, disbanded/dissolved, December Shepherd of the Hills Lutheran Church, Rio Rancho, NM, disbanded/dissolved, April 1, SECTION III PAGE 8

9 PRESIDENT S STATISTICAL REPORT COMMISSIONED MINISTERS TRANSFERRED WITHIN THE DISTRICT REBEKAH R. AMERELLER, candidate status, Parker, CO to Trinity, Franktown, CO installed August 13, 2017 by Rev. Terry Beltz. ALLEGRA BRAASCH, candidate status, Arvada, CO to Bethlehem, Lakewood, CO installed August 16, 2015 by Rev. Drew Ross. BRADLEY BUERCK, Peace With Christ, Aurora, CO to Bethlehem, Lakewood, CO installed August 21, 2016 by Rev. Drew Ross. SHELLY DAVIS, candidate status, Salt Lake City, UT to Grace, Sandy, UT installed January 29, 2017 by Rev. Anthony Masinelli. TAMMY FRERICHS, Trinity, St. George, UT to Immanuel, Albuquerque, NM installed August 27, 2017 by Rev. Dustin Kear. ELIZABETH M. HANFT, Trinity, Greeley, CO to Immanuel, Loveland, CO installed August 16, 2015 by Rev. Glen Schlecht. AUDREY HERRMANN, Teacher, Messiah School, Longmont, CO to Dir. Of Music., Messiah, Longmont, CO installed July 7, 2013 by Rev. Kent Schnegelberger. ROSEMARY HILTON, Trinity, Pueblo, CO to Beautiful Savior, Broomfield, CO installed August 14, 2016 by Rev. Theodore Groth. LESLEY HOLLE, candidate status, Albuquerque, NM to Grace, Albuquerque, NM installed July 16, 2017 by Rev. Warren Graff. MIRIAM KLEIN, Christ, Murray, UT to Immanuel, Albuquerque, NM installed August 28, 2016 by Rev. Kenneth DeSoto. CAROLYN OTTE, candidate status, Denver, CO to St. John s, Denver, CO installed June 12, 2016 by Rev. Michael Eckelkamp. SARAH A. PHILLIPS, candidate status to Grace, Sandy, UT installed August 16, 2015 by Rev. Anthony Masinelli. TERI L. RECK, Trinity, Denver, CO to Zion, Brighton, CO installed August 16, 2015 by Rev. Christian Rasmussen. SARAH A. ROSS, candidate status, Littleton, CO to Peace Lutheran Early Learning Center, Arvada, CO installed March 05, 2017 by Rev. David Ahlman. EMILY SAUCERMAN, non-candidate status, Aurora, CO to Peace With Christ Christian School, Aurora, CO installed August 16, 2015 by Rev. Michael Hiller. SUE A. TARR, non-candidate status, Washington, UT to Trinity, St. George, UT installed September 11, 2016 by Rev. John Manweiler. KIMBERLY VON HOLDT, Peace With Christ, Aurora, CO to Bethlehem, Lakewood, CO installed August 16, 2015 by Rev. Drew Ross. COMMISSIONED MINISTERS TRANSFERRED TO THE ROCKY MOUNTAIN DISTRICT REBECCA BROCKMAN, non-candidate status, Texas District to RM District, February 23, BLAIR BUECKMAN, Emeritus, Missouri District to RM District, July 9, KADIE CLEVELAND, First, Texarkana, TX to St. John, Denver, CO installed August 9, 2015 by Rev. Andrew Mastic. DANIEL DEARDOFF JR., Deshler, Deshler, NE to Bethlehem, Lakewood, CO installed February 28, 2016 by Rev. David Langewisch. MELISSA DEGROOT, candidate status, English District to RM District, July 20, MARK DOEBELE, Valley LHS, Phoenix, AZ to CLHSA, Parker, CO installed August 13, 2015 by Dr. Bradley Stoltenow. BRADLEY ERICKSON, Cross, New Braunfels, TX to Trinity, Greeley, CO installed August 16, 2015 by Rev. Greg Hafeman. CHELSEA ERICKSON, St. James, Shawano, WI to Redeemer, Salt Lake City, UT installed August 6, 2017 by Rev. Kevin Belter. DENNIS FANGMANN, Synod Executive Staff, LCMS Office of International Mission to RM District, July 1, RUTH FURR, Holy Cross, Saginaw, MI to Peace, Arvada, CO installed October 30, 2016 by Rev. David Ahlman. SECTION III PAGE 9

10 PRESIDENT S STATISTICAL REPORT COMMISSIONED MINISTERS TRANSFERRED TO THE ROCKY MOUNTAIN DISTRICT EMILY GEISLER, Concordia, Springfield, IL to candidate status, RM District, February 23, DAWN GROTH, St. Peter s, Edina, MN to candidate status, RM District, April 9, DARCI GROTHMAN, candidate status, Michigan District to RM District, March 13, DANIEL BARRY HAMPTON, Our Shepherd, Avon, IN to Holy Cross, Colorado Springs, CO installed October 16, 2016 by Rev. Douglas Brauner. MELINDA HEINE, Emeritus, Texas District to RM District, April 4, MARILYN HEINTZ, Emeritus, Northern Illinois District to RM District, June 23, STEVEN R. HOBUS, Crean LHS, Irvine, CA to Lutheran Church of Messiah, Grand Junction, CO installed June 18, 2017 by Rev. Michael Redeker. MATTHEW HOEHNE, Christ Our Savior, Livonia, MI to Our Father, Centennial, CO installed July 30, 2016 by Rev. Scott Abel. NICHOLAS HOFFMANN, candidate status, North Wisconsin District to RM District, May 24, MARGARET KLINE, Trinity, Cedar Rapids, IA to candidate status, RM District, July 30, MARTIN KOHLWEY, Concordia University, Seward, NE to CLHSA, Parker, CO installed August 11, 2016 by Rev. Nate Peregoy. DAWN KOHN, candidate status, Michigan District to RM District, September 22, AMANDA KUHL, First, Fort Smith, AR to candidate status, RM District, November 1, TIMOTHY D. LINDEMAN, Trinity, Grand Island, NE to Redeemer, Ft Collins, CO installed January 14, 2018 by Rev. Ryan Meyer. KAREN M. MEAD, non-candidate status, California-Nevada-Hawaii District to Lutheran Church of Messiah, Grand Junction installed January 17, 2016 by Rev. William Cornelius. RACHEL M. MILLER, Clarinda, Clarinda, IA to candidate status, Rocky Mountain District, February 4, KRISTI MORLOCK, Calvary, San Lorenzo, CA to Peace With Christ, Aurora, CO installed August 16, 2015 by Rev. Michael Miller. EMILIE R. NIEMAN, non-candidate status, Michigan District to RM District, July 21, MEGAN OBERMUELLER, Concordia Academy, Roseville, MN to CLHSA, Parker, CO installed August 13, 2015 by Dr. Bradley Stoltenow. AMY N. PAUL, Wyneken Memorial, Decatur, IN to candidate status, RM District, December 22, CAROLYN PEREZ, non-candidate status, Northwest District to RM District, February 16, NATHAN RICHTER, Lutheran School Assoc., Decatur, IL to Bethlehem, Lakewood, CO installed February 28, 2016 by Rev. David Langewisch. STEPHEN ROBBINS, Lutheran Education Association, Houston, TX to CLHSA, Parker, CO installed August 11, 2016 by Rev. Nate Peregoy. CHERYL ROLF, St. Paul, Wenatchee, WA to candidate status, RM District, July 31, JOHN E. ROLF, St. Paul, Wenatchee, WA to candidate status, RM District, July 31, GEORGE SCHROLL, Immanuel, Wentzville, MO to Peace With Christ, Aurora, CO installed August 16, 2015 by Rev. Michael Miller. MICHELE SCHULTEIS, non-candidate status, Pacific Southwest District to RM District, June 15, PAMELA STEFFENS, Emeritus, Missouri District to RM District, June 8, CORINNE STEINBRENNER, Emeritus, Northern Illinois District to RM District, July 31, GLENN STEINBRENNER, Emeritus, Northern Illinois District to RM District, July 1, LISA STEINBRENNER, Trinity, Kalispell, MT to Zion, Brighton, CO installed August 16, 2016 by Rev. Christian Rasmussen. KENT W. STEPHENS, Holy Cross, Wichita, KS to Emeritus, RM District, April 30, TIMOTHY E. THOMACK, Christ Our Rock, Centralia, IL to CLHSA, Parker, CO installed August 13, 2015 by Dr. Bradley Stoltenow. MARVA TONNIGES, Emeritus, Nebraska District to RM District, June 16, SECTION III PAGE 10

11 PRESIDENT S STATISTICAL REPORT COMMISSIONED MINISTERS TRANSFERRED TO THE ROCKY MOUNTAIN DISTRICT MARVA TONNIGES, Emeritus, Nebraska District to RM District, June 16, LISA K. VANNOY, Messiah, Lincoln, NE to Trinity, Pueblo, CO installed August 27, 2017 by Rev. Randy Bolt. MARK VICARI, non- candidate status, Indiana District to RM District, July 8, RACHEL WEIHOLD, Trinity, Wausau, WI to Mt. Olive, Aurora, CO installed October 07, 2017 by Rev. Robert Harmon. JORDAN WHITE, Zion, Rapid, SD to Peace With Christ, Aurora, CO installed August 16, 2015 by Rev. Michael Miller. COMMISSIONED MINISTERS TRANSFERRED TO OTHER DISTRICTS VERA ABRESCH, Christ, Albuquerque, NM to St. John Amelith, Bay City, MI, June 30, MEREDITH ARLDT, Shepherd of the Hills, Centennial, CO to Salem, Orange, CA, June 30, CORWIN BADEN, Vail Christian School, Edwards, CO to Zion, San Francisco, CA, August 15, MARK BAUMGARTEL, Emeritus, RM District to Indiana District, May 12, CHLOE BORG, Redeemer, Salt Lake City, UT to Emmanuel, Kahului, HI, June 8, SARA BORGSTEDE, non-candidate status, RM District to Eastern District, April 15, MELISSA BRANDENBURGER, candidate status, RM District to Texas District, August 10, RACHEL BREDOW, non-candidate status, RM District to South Wisconsin, January 12, RYAN BREDOW, CLHSA, Parker, Colorado to Lutheran High School Assoc., Greendale, WI, June 1, COREY BRANDENBURGER, Christ, Murray, UT to Cross, New Braunfels, TX, July 1, MELISSA L. CATTAU, Zion, Brighton, CO to Faith, Las Vegas, NV, June 15, CHRISTINE DAVIS, non-candidate status, RM District to Iowa West District, September 1, KELLY J. EBEL, non-candidate status, RM District to Pacific Southwest District, September 1, ABBY C. EINSPAHR, candidate status, RM District to Bethany, Long Beach, CA, August1, MICHELLE D. FISCHER, Bethlehem, Lakewood, CO to Calvary, Kansas City, MO, June 30, KRISTA FREITAG, candidate status, RM District to Lutheran High School, San Antonio, TX, July 31, SARAH GLOVER, candidate status, RM District to St. John, Battle Creek, NE, December 5,2017. DAWN R. GODEMANN, Grace, Sandy, UT to St. Peter, Lodi, CA, June 30, DAVID GOSA, Trinity, Pueblo, CO to Clarinda, Clarinda, IA, August 14, KERI GOSA, non-candidate status, RM District to Clarinda, Clarinda, IA, August 15, RICHARD GRICE, Emeritus, RM District to Pacific Southwest District, April 8, ROSEMARY HILTON, Beautiful Savior, Broomfield, CO to Mountain View, Las Vegas, NV, June 30, SHERYLN HOLT, non-candidate status, RM District to South Dakota District, January 4, ANNA S. JOHNSON, non-candidate status, RM District to Missouri District, January 14, NEAL KASPAR, Emeritus, RM District to Bethany, Naperville, IL, June 30, WILLIAM J. LAESCH, Emeritus, RM District to South Wisconsin District, June 30, KARI LETTOW, Christ, Murray, UT to Cross, New Braunfels, TX, June 30, DR. JEREMY R. LOWE, Vail Christian High School, Edwards, CO to Prince of Peace, Carrollton, TX, June 30, RANDY LOWE, Emeritus, RM District to Minnesota South District, September 9, EMILY MCALLISTER, Peace With Christ, Aurora, CO to non-candidate status, Nebraska District, January 4, MIRANDA MONDARY, Christ, Murray, UT to Hope, Shawnee, KS, June 8, LORI MOSES, candidate status, RM District to Indiana District, May 9, KATHLEEN M. O DAY, Redeemer, Ft. Collins, CO to Lutheran Church Charities-Northbrook, IL, February 2, AUDREY PARTIPILO, Messiah, Longmont, CO to Trinity, Riverton, WY, June 30, AMY PAUL, candidate status, RM District to Texas District, September 1, JOSHUA REMPFER, candidate status, RM District to Emmanuel, Kahului, HI, June 30, SECTION III PAGE 11

12 PRESIDENT S STATISTICAL REPORT COMMISSIONED MINISTERS TRANSFERRED TO OTHER DISTRICTS JOSHUA REMPFER, candidate status, RM District to Emmanuel, Kahului, HI, June 30, REBEKKAH RENNEGARBE, Trinity, Pueblo, CO to Clarinda, Clarinda, Iowa, August 1, STEPHANIE ROETTJER, non-candidate status, RM District to Texas District, October 3, LISA A. ROGERS, Bethlehem, Lakewood, CO to Christ, Phoenix, AZ, June 30, MARY SCHMIDT, candidate status, RM District to Mid-South District, November 2, STEPHANIE SCHMIDT, candidate status, RM District to South Wisconsin District, May 9, CHRISTA STEC, Our Father, Centennial, CO to King of Glory, Williamsburg, VA, August 18, BETHANY STEINER, non-candidate status, RM District to Minnesota South District, November 30, RUTH STUENKEL, Emeritus, RM District to Minnesota North District, January 23, SARAH VAUGHN, Trinity, Franktown, CO to Trinity, Fremont, NE, June 30, MARK VICARI, candidate status, RM District to Wolf River High School, Cecil, WI, July 27, MARK VON SOOSTEN, Christ, Albuquerque, NM to Trinity, Centralia, WY, June 30, MOLLY-ANN WELLS, Zion, Brighton, CO to Faith Lutheran Academy, Las Vegas, NV, June 30, TYLER ZANDER, candidate status, RM District to Calvary Lutheran High School, Jefferson City, MO, May 11, JOHN ZILM, CLHSA, Parker, CO to Zion, Bethalto, IL, June 30, COMMISSIONED MINISTERS COMMISSIONED AND INSTALLED TIMOTHY BRADLEY, Concordia, Seward, NE to Shepherd of the Hills, Centennial, CO, commissioned and installed August 23, 2015 by Dr. Bradley Stoltenow. CHLOE BORG, Concordia, Irvine, CA to Redeemer, Salt Lake City, UT, commissioned and installed September 18, 2016 by Rev. David Fischer. REBECCA CHAPLIN, Concordia, Ann Arbor, MI to Bethlehem, Lakewood, CO, commissioned and installed November 1, 2015 by Rev. Drew Ross. REBECCA DEHOYOS, Concordia, Seward, NE to Grace, Sandy, UT, commissioned and installed August 16, 2015 by Rev. Anthony Masinelli. MATTHIA DURYEA, Concordia, Irvine, CA to Redeemer, Ft Collins, CO, commissioned and installed June 5, 2016 by Rev. Gerald Harrow. TALITHA ELBERT, Concordia, Seward, NE to Christ, Albuquerque, NM, commissioned and installed August 13, 2017 by Rev. Neal Groeling. DANIEL GEU, Concordia, Seward, NE to Immanuel, Loveland, CO, commissioned and installed August 20, 2017 by Rev. Glen Schlecht. ROSEMARY HILTON, Concordia, Irvine, CA to Trinity, Pueblo, CO, commissioned and installed August 2, 2015 by Rev. Randy Bolt. THOMAS HINRICHS, Concordia, Seward, NE to Christ, Albuquerque, NM, commissioned and installed August 14, 2016 by Rev. Neal Groeling. SARA IPATENCO, Concordia, Seward, NE to Bethlehem, Lakewood, CO, commissioned and installed August 21, 2016 by Rev. Drew Ross. ERICA JOFRE, Concordia Seminary, St. Louis, NE to Trinity, Sterling, CO, Deaconess, commissioned and installed March 25, 2018 by Rev. Gary Rahe. REBECCA JORDAN, Concordia, Irvine, CA to Redeemer, Salt Lake City, UT, commissioned and installed August 8, 2017 by Rev. Keith Belter. KRISTEN LIPKE, Concordia, Seward, NE to St Peter's, Monte Vista, CO, commissioned and installed June 5, 2016 by Rev. Don Stults. MIRANDA MONDARY, Concordia, Portland, OR to Christ, Murray, UT, commissioned and installed July 31, 2016 by Rev. Tyrel Bramwell. LIANNA NILSSON, Concordia, Irvine, CA to Zion, Brighton, CO, commissioned and installed August 14, 2016 by Rev. Christian Rasmussen. DONNA PATTON, Concordia, Austin, TX to Peace With Christ, Aurora, CO, commissioned and installed July 10, 2016 by Rev. Michael Hiller. SECTION III PAGE 12

13 PRESIDENT S STATISTICAL REPORT COMMISSIONED MINISTERS COMMISSIONED AND INSTALLED REBEKKAH RENNEGARBE, Concordia, Irvine, CA to Trinity, Pueblo, CO, commissioned and installed August 2, 2015 by Rev. Randy Bolt. STEPHANIE SCHMIDT, Concordia, Irvine, CA to Faith, Carbondale, CO, commissioned and installed September 26, 2015 by Rev. Allen Anderson. NATHAN STEVENS, Concordia, Irvine, CA to Beautiful Savior, Broomfield, CO, commissioned and installed August 14, 2016 by Rev. Theodore Groth. BENJAMIN CURTIS, Concordia, Austin, TX to Trinity, Franktown, CO, commissioned and installed July 2, 2017 by Rev. Terry Beltz. KAREN WEBBER, Concordia, Seward, NE to Grace, Sandy, UT, commissioned and installed August 16, 2015 by Rev. Anthony Masinelli. TAYLOR WHEELER, Concordia, St. Paul, MN to Trinity, Pueblo, CO, commissioned and installed July 16, 2017 by Rev. Randy Bolt. RENEE WILLIAMS, Concordia, Seward, NE to Christ, Denver, CO, commissioned and installed October 20, 2015 by Rev. Roger Wohletz. COMMISSIONED MINISTERS TO CANDIDATE STATUS TIMOTHY AHO, Immanuel, Loveland, CO to candidate status, July 1, REBEKAH AMERELLER, St. John s, Denver, CO to candidate status, June 1, GINA BOSSOW, Lutheran Church of Messiah, Grand Junction, CO to candidate status, July 1, WENDY DILLON, Immanuel, Albuquerque, NM to candidate status, August 1, MELISSA C. FISCHER, Messiah, Longmont, CO to candidate status, June 30, SARAH GLOVER, Gethsemane, Northglenn, CO to candidate status, August 1, REBECCA HUESKE, Zion, Brighton, CO to candidate status, June 1, LORI LOSSER, Christ, Murray, UT to candidate status, June 2, GRETA MCCLENDON, Trinity, Greeley, CO to candidate status, July 1, JANINE RUSCETTA, St. John s, Denver, CO to candidate status, June 8, MARY SCHMIDT, Emmanuel, Rifle, CO to Emeritus, October 20, STEPHANIE SCHMIDT, Faith, Carbondale, CO to candidate status, May 3, AARON SCHRADER, Concordia Prepatory School, Riverton, UT to candidate status, August 15, AUDREY TODD, Bethlehem, Lakewood, CO to candidate status, June 30, STEPHANIE WARNER, Peace, Arvada, CO to candidate status, April 13, ANGELA J. WENZLICK, Messiah, Longmont, CO to candidate status, July 1, TYLER ZANDER, Bethlehem, Lakewood, CO to candidate status, December 15, COMMISSIONED MINISTERS TO NON-CANDIDATE STATUS ALEX ALBERS, Peace With Christ, Aurora, CO to non-candidate status, July 2, SARAH M. ANDREWS, candidate status to non-candidate status, July 1, KATELIN AUSTIN, Trinity, St. George, UT to non-candidate status, June 1, NICOLE M. BARTON, candidate status to non-candidate status, January 25, RUSSELL BROCKMEIER, non-candidate status to non-candidate status, February 28, KIMBERLY EMAN, candidate status, Westminster, CO to non-candidate status, September 1,2015. MATTHEW HARWELL, Redeemer, Ft Collins, CO to non-candidate status, November 6, STACI HEINS, non-candidate status, Longmont, CO to non-candidate status, April 4, STACI HEINS, Messiah, Longmont, CO to non-candidate status, April 2, ANNA S. JOHNSON, candidate status, Aurora, CO to non-candidate status, September 30, EMILY MCALLISTER, Peace With Christ, Aurora, CO to non-candidate status, January 1, ELISABETH A. RILEY, St. John s, Denver, CO to non-candidate status, December 31, STEPHANIE ROETTJER, Mt. Calvary, Estes Park, CO to non-candidate status, July 1, EMILY SAUCERMAN, Peace With Christ, Aurora, CO to non-candidate status, July 1, BETHANY STEINER, Christ, Murray, UT to non-candidate status, November 15, SUE A. TARR, candidate status to non-candidate status, January 1, MICHAEL C. WERNER, candidate status to non-candidate status, July 1, SECTION III PAGE 13

14 PRESIDENT S STATISTICAL REPORT REINSTATED TO COMMISSIONED MINISTER ROSTER ENID MILLER, reinstated to candidate status to Lutheran Church of Messiah, Grand Junction, CO installed October 22, 2016 by Rev. Melvin Mertens. CINDY ROCKWELL, reinstated to candidate status to Lutheran Church of Messiah, Grand Junction, CO installed October 22, 2016 by Rev. Melvin Mertens. RETIREMENT WILLIAM BUSACKER, Immanuel, Loveland, CO to Emeritus, August 1, CONNIE CORDOVA, Beautiful Savior, Broomfield, CO to Emeritus, June 6, CHRISTINE EGGERT, candidate status to Emeritus, January 23, CATHERINE E. FISCHER, candidate status to Emeritus, January 29, KRISTEEN FJELDSTED, Grace, Sandy, UT to Emeritus, July 1, DONNA FORKE, Christ, Murray, UT to Emeritus, June 1, KAREN FREIDENBERGER, Trinity, Ft. Morgan, CO to Emeritus, June 1, CYNTHIA GRAGES, Peace With Christ, Aurora, CO to Emeritus, July 1, GAIL HEIN, Immanuel, Loveland, CO to Emeritus, June 1, KATHERINE HEITSCHMIDT, Zion, Brighton, CO to Emeritus, August 16, ROSELLA HEMMEN, Immanuel, Loveland, CO to Emeritus, June 4, DONITA HUGHES, Grace, Sandy, UT to Emeritus, June 30, FRED JESGARZ, Trinity, St. George, UT to Emeritus, June 28,2015. NEAL KASPAR, Lutheran Church of Messiah, Grand Junction, CO to Emeritus, September 1, SHARON KEMBEL, candidate status to Emeritus, January 5, LINDA LEITNER, Grace, Albuquerque, NM to Emeritus, August 2, RANDY LOWE, Vail Christian High School, Edwards, CO to Emeritus, July 1, KATHLEEN MCFALL, Zion, Brighton, CO to Emeritus, July 31, KEITH MOODIE, Christ, Murray, UT to Emeritus, July 1, JEANETTE REYNOLDS, Redeemer, Denver, CO to Emeritus, June 1, JUDY SHELLEY, Beautiful Savior, Broomfield, CO to Emeritus, November 16, CHESTER SHOAF, Bethlehem, Lakewood, CO to Emeritus, August 1, MARK VON DER LAGE, candidate status to Emeritus, January 26, SANDRA WETZSTEIN, Shepherd of the Hills, Centennial, CO to Emeritus, June 1, RESIGNED/REMOVED FROM COMMISSIONED MINISTER ROSTER GLENN BREITLING, Emeritus, Sioux Falls, SD, February 28, REBECCA BROCKMAN, candidate status, Evergreen, CO, March 5, CHRISTAL CHAPMAN, Gethsemane, Northglenn, CO, November 4, ERIN DAHLKE, non-candidate status, March 1, REBECCA DEHOYOS, Grace, Sandy, UT, May 19, ROBIN FIELDS, Mt. Olive, Aurora, CO, May 8, KATIE GARMATZ, Immanuel, Albuquerque, NM, June 7, SARAH JONES, CLHSA, Parker, CO, October 05, KIMBERLY MCDONALD, candidate status, April 1, DARIA MANN, St. John s, Denver, CO, February 16, TAMMY SCHOENHALS, Mt. Olive, Aurora, CO, October 30, JOY SHORT, Trinity, Denver, CO, May 19, TAMARA STECKER, candidate status, Pueblo, CO, April 1,2015. JESSE WISROTH, non-candidate status, Anchorage, AK, January 14, JOANNA WHITTINGTON, Immanuel, Albuquerque, NM, August 1, SECTION III PAGE 14

15 PRESIDENT S STATISTICAL REPORT DEATHS RICHARD AUFDEMBERGE, Emeritus, Highlands Ranch, CO, November 7, MARVIN DUMLER, Emeritus, Loveland, CO, October 5, LOUIS EBERHARD, Emeritus, Greeley, CO, July 11, DR. ERICH HELGE, Emeritus, Albuquerque, NM, February 18, HENRY HERMANN, Emeritus, Grand Junction, CO, December 30, TERRY W. MILLER, St. Paul, Ogden, UT, September 21, TRACY NELSON, St John s, Denver, CO, October 24, SYLVIA PFANKU, Emeritus, Chippewa Falls, WI, September 14, MR. JAMES ROBINSON, Emeritus, Arvada, CO, September 10, DOROTHY WUGGAZER, Emeritus, Grand Junction, CO, July 16, SECTION III PAGE 15

16 CHAIRMAN S REPORT BOARD OF DIRECTORS Grace, mercy, and peace to you from God the Father, and our risen Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. The purpose of this Chairman s report is to share with you the activities and accomplishments of the Board of Directors during the last triennium. During our first organizational meeting, we struggled with the state of the Rocky Mountain District of The Lutheran Church Missouri Synod and generated a list of the greatest issues facing the District. From that session we developed our priorities for the triennium and set related goals and objectives. Our areas of emphasis for the past triennium have been to promote unity within the District; to build relationships by increasing the amount and frequency of Director visitations with the Circuits in the District and to promote more participation within the Circuits; improve communications between the Board and individual congregations partially through the regular dissemination of information through the MyDistrict ; develop resources, education materials and action plans to promote better worker health potentially by building on programs utilized within other Districts in the Synod; and to increase clarity in the guidelines for application and funding priorities for Gospel Gap Paradigm initiatives. Since I last reported to you in 2015, the Board approved fourteen applications for funds under the Gospel Gap Paradigm. The total amount of these grants was almost $150,000. Some of the more significant grants have been in support of the St. Andrews Albuquerque church plant and its missionary, Rev. Adam DeGroot; Mission Denver Northwest; God Cares About You Mission Albuquerque; and Resurrection in the City Denver. Additionally, there were grants to support the proclamation of the Gospel in Moab Utah, and other youth and worker support programs. We give thanks for the many other Gospel Gap initiatives currently being carried out by Circuits without the assistance of any District funding. With respect to international missions, the Board has elected to partner with The Lutheran Church Missouri Synod and the Belize Mission Society, a RSO of the LCMS, to prayerfully and financially support the missionary work of Rev. Duane Meissner and others in their service to the people of Belize through Gospel witness and acts of mercy. You will hear much more about this during the convention. The Board of Directors would like to thank and recognize Dr. Harry F. Krueckeberg for his many years of service as District Archivist and Historian to the Rocky Mountain District. The District is indebted to him for his dedication and especially to his authorship of Historical Developments in the Rocky Mountain District Lutheran Church Missouri Synod prepared in commemoration of its 50 th District Convention in All but one of the Board members elected at the 2015 District Convention were able to fulfill their three-year term. The Board was not able to appoint a layperson to fill that vacancy from the Southern Area. I would like to personally thank all of the Board of Directors for their dedication and faithful service during the last triennium. I extend my gratitude to Rev. Christian Rasmussen, Assistant Secretary; Rev. Paul Albers, Executive for Congregational Services; Mr. Doug Ullmann, former Treasurer and Executive Administrator; Monique Hjalmquist, Administrative Assistant; Mr. Kevin Grein, LCEF Vice President, and Laura Raben, former LCEF Communications Coordinator for their service to the District and to the Board of Directors. In His Service, J. A. Tuell Chairman of the Board of Directors Rocky Mountain District of The Lutheran Church Missouri Synod. SECTION III PAGE 16

17 CIRCUIT VISITOR REPORTS CIRCUIT 1 PECOS Since 2015, the Pecos circuit has undergone much change. Immanuel Lutheran Church in Clovis is still going through the call process. After having discussions with St. John s in Lariat, TX about a possible dual parish scenario, it was decided that both congregations would remain independent from each other at this time and that it was best for Clovis to continue its call process on its own. After Pr. David Symm (St. John, Lariat) facilitated their vacancy for about 1 1/2 years Clovis is currently being served by Rev. Scott Blazek in a part-time vacancy capacity at six month intervals. Immanuel Lutheran Church in Roswell has celebrated the retirement of Pastor Dan Praeuner, installed Pastor Rob Paul as Senior Pastor and Headmaster, called and installed pastor Steve Cholak as Associate Pastor and teacher, said goodbye to Pastor Paul, installed Pastor Cholak as Associate Pastor and Headmaster and then called and installed Pastor Brian Flamme as Senior Pastor. It s been a busy three years for Immanuel in Roswell, and now things are settling in nicely. The churches in Ruidoso, Carlsbad, Artesia, Hobbs, Lovington, and Portales continued to be served and serve their communities with few noticeable changes. Recent and upcoming changes in the Pecos circuit involve the CV and the dual parishes of Carlsbad and Artesia. Pastor Dimit served as the CV after being voted in at the Circuit Forum of January After serving faithfully for two and a half years, Pastor Dimit asked to be released from this responsibility in order to better fill some of his other vocations. Pastor Rust was appointed to fill the remaining six months of Pastor Dimit s term and then elected to serve as the CV during this next triennium at the Circuit Forum of January Pastor Dimit has announced his retirement currently set for January The dual parishes of Carlsbad and Artesia have begun the assessment stage of the call process in anticipation of his retirement. The Pecos Circuit thanks Pastor Dimit for his service. Pecos Circuit Forum Official Business: Pastor Jason Rust elect to serve as Circuit Visitor Approval of the circuit pastors recommendation for unity in utilizing first communion separate from confirmation in the Pecos Circuit. Approval of sending an overture to the 2018 District Convention to Reaffirm Young Earth Creationism (all copies signed and sent) We give thanks to God for continuing and sustaining the work or His church in eastern New Mexico. We pray for continued Kingdom impact and faithful proclamation of the Gospel in and amongst His churches in the LCMS of eastern New Mexico. Respectfully Submitted by Rev. Jason S. Rust Pecos Circuit Visitor Shepherd of the Hills Ruidoso, NM SECTION III PAGE 17

18 CIRCUIT VISITOR REPORTS CIRCUIT 2 DENVER NORTHWEST Over the past three years the Denver Northwest circuit has been meeting regularly each month at different churches within the circuit. During this time, we have worshiped together, had lunch, Fellowship, Bible Study and time to share our concerns, blessings, joys and problems. We conclude each meeting with prayers for the work that is being done in each of the congregations and throughout the circuit and district. As a circuit, we have tried to be there for each other, not just with our prayers but also with any form of help that we can give to each other, with the realization that we each have our own unique ministry that we have been called to do with the congregation we have been called to serve. Salt of the Earth ministry has been working in the past three years as a mission of the Denver Northwest Circuit and other areas as a special mission to the unchurched, building missional communities through the leadership of Rev. Larry McGurer. Their support has been from the mission outreach of Peace Lutheran and other members of the Circuit. In the past year, Bethlehem Lutheran has begun the Living Well Shower Trailer Ministry as part of the Thursday Night Supper reaching out to the homeless and other people in the Denver metro area to help them receive the common dignities that all people need. Each of the Churches in the Denver Northwest District have been involved in various mission outreach endeavors throughout the circuit and around the world. At this time, we have three congregations in the circuit that are in the process of calling a new pastor to their congregation and one congregation that is not able to call a pastor at this time. During the past three years we have welcomed two new pastors in our circuit and have had three pastor retire from their ministry. Each of our congregations have had to deal with the economic and social problems of their ministry striving to proclaim the truth of God s Word in ways that will reach out to the unique people in their area. Rev. Pete Scheele Denver Northwest Circuit Visitor Shepherd of the Rockies - Bailey, CO CIRCUIT 3 DENVER SOUTHWEST No report provided Rev. Greg Zillinger Denver Southwest Circuit Visitor Shepherd of the Hills - Centennial, CO SECTION III PAGE 18

19 CIRCUIT VISITOR REPORTS CIRCUIT 4 LONG S PEAK The Longs Peak circuit consists of nine congregations in the northern front range of Colorado. Faith, Johnstown (Pr. Brandon Ross) Gloria Christi, Greeley (Pr. Steve Weiss) Immanuel, Loveland (Prs. Glen Schlecht and Al Schroeder) Mt. Calvary, Estes Park (Pr. Jonathan Schultz) Mt. Olive, Loveland (Pr. Mark Nierman) Peace With Christ Lutheran, Fort Collins (Pr. David Magruder) Redeemer Lutheran, Fort Collins and Greeley (Prs. Tim Runtsch, Scott Coerber, Ryan Meyer, Caleb Cox, Frank Johnson St. John s Lutheran, Fort Collins (Pr. Shawn Nettleton) Trinity, Greeley (Pr. Greg Hafeman) The Longs Peak Circuit regularly meets for winkel on the third Tuesday of the month from 9am to noon. We gather for worship, an exegetical study and Lutheran Confessions study or another topical study. During the past triennium we welcomed several pastors to our circuit. Rev. David Magruder was installed as Pastor Peace With Christ in January Rev. Jonathan Schultz was installed as Pastor of Mt. Calvary in February Rev. Caleb Cox was ordained and installed at Redeemer as the director of Respond Ministries in June Rev. Frank Johnson was ordained and installed at Redeemer through the SMP program as associate director of Relate Ministries in January of Two congregations in our circuit are in the process of calling a pastor. Immanuel, Loveland is calling an assistant pastor to replace Rev. Al Schroeder is who retiring in June of Redeemer is also calling an assistant pastor to their Greeley site. The close proximity of our congregations allows many opportunities for congregational members to participate in theological discussions and special events hosted by congregations in the circuit. In October of 2017, the Longs Peak Circuit joined together for a 500 th Anniversary Reformation service which was held at St. John s is Fort Collins. Offerings from the service funded the Lutheran Heritage Foundation Book of Concord for Cambodia project. In Christ, Mark Nierman Long s Peak Circuit Visitor Mount Olive- Loveland, CO SECTION III PAGE 19

20 CIRCUIT VISITOR REPORTS CIRCUIT 5 SANDIA NORTH Sandia North is a dual Circuit with Sandia South. The two Circuits meet together. Winkels are held monthly and include fellowship, Bible study, a study of the Confessions, worship with Holy Communion and often an additional Topic. The additional topics vary. We have recently had a presentation on Transgenderism using the book When Harry Became Sally as a reference. We have also had presentations/discussions on other topics from Chaplaincy to Suicide to Alzheimer's. In October 2017, our combined Circuit celebrated the 500 th Anniversary of the Reformation at Christ Lutheran Church in Albuquerque. On March 11, 2018 the Circuits gathered for the installation of Pastor Marsh Shamburger as a SMP Pastor at Grace Lutheran Church to serve the campus ministry at the University of New Mexico. Grace Lutheran Church is the sponsoring congregation. Rev. Eli Lietzau of Faith In Christ L.C. spoke at the March for Life rally in Santa Fe in January. Several Sandia North Circuit Pastors also participated in this rally. On April 8, 2018 we will gather for the installation of Missionary Pastor Adam DeGroot at Faith In Christ Lutheran Church. Rev. DeGroot is being installed as missionary to Saint Andrew Lutheran Church. St. Andrew L.C. is a church plant in the south-west quadrant of Albuquerque and is sponsored by Faith in Christ Lutheran Church. This mission is formally supported by the Sandia North and South Circuits. God Cares about You Ministry is sponsored by Christ Lutheran. Pastor Mark Kluzek served until called to churches in Iowa. Now lay people and Pastors serve food, clothing, and the Gospel to the poor people of the area. This mission continues to grow and is also formally supported by the Sandia North and South Circuits. Christ Lutheran Church also offers Stephen Ministry which continues to flourish, training more care-givers and touching the lives of hurting people with their presence. The impact of their dedication and work is a blessing. Further, Christ Lutheran was honored to serve as the host congregation for the 2016 LWML Convention that was held in Albuquerque last June. Like many local congregations, Christ L.C. had a number of volunteers who worked many long hours to welcome visitors from around the nation and the world. The RMD Southern Region LCMS Pastors' Conference, Santa Fe is happening in our Sandia Circuits April 18-20, 2018 hosted by the Sandia North Circuit. The guest speaker is Rev. Erik Heermann, Ph.D., Associate Prof. of Historical Theology at Concordia Seminary, St. Louis. Dr. Herrmann is also Director of the Center for Reformation Research. The topic for this Spring Conference is: The Cross is our Theology - Remembering, Celebrating and Applying Luther's Heidelberg Disputation 500 Years Later. The Sandia North Circuit is comprised of 11 congregations located primarily in the northern New Mexico geographical area. These congregations are: Christ L.C. (Rev. Neal Groeling), Faith In Christ L.C. (Rev. Eli Lietzau), Grace L.C. (Rev. Warren Graff), Prince Of Peace L.C. (Rev. Mike Feuer), Good Shepherd L.C. (Rev. Phil Spomer), Immanuel L.C. Santa Fe, NM, (Rev. Doug Escue), Redeemer L.C., Los Alamos, NM (Rev. Brian Kachelmeier), Immanuel L.C. Las Vegas, NM (Vacancy Pastor - Rev. Don Neidigk, Emeritus), Immanuel L.C. Springer, NM (Vacancy Pastor - Rev. Phil Quarles), Sangre de Cristo L.C. Taos, NM (Rev. Phil Quarles), Christ Our Savior L.C. Angel Fire, NM (Rev. Phil Quarles). Immanuel L.C. Las Vegas, NM (Vacancy Pastor - Rev. Don Neidigk, Emeritus) and Immanuel L.C. Springer, NM (Vacancy Pastor - Rev. Phil Quarles) were previously a dual parish. Upon the death of Pastor Ernie Hengst, pulpit supply continued. Both churches are small congregations. The status of this vacancy is as follows. SECTION III PAGE 20

21 CIRCUIT VISITOR REPORTS CIRCUIT 5 SANDIA NORTH Immanuel Springer, NM had 11 faithful souls in attendance for our Easter 2018 service. Regular attendance is generally 7-8 persons. They are served twice monthly for Divine Service and the Lord s Supper. Attendance at Immanuel, Las Vegas, is slowly climbing, with average attendance closing in on 25. Pastor Neidigk continues to celebrate Holy Communion services twice a month. The in-between Sundays offer a Bible Study led by laymen, with attendance there to be 12 plus. One of our new members is a wonderful pianist whose love for the Lord is well shown in her playing. The financial situation is good with enough income for paying the bills and supporting charitable opportunities in our community, and regular offerings to Cordero de Dios in Denver. The Spiritual life at Immanuel is the best thing about our congregation. Pastor Phil Quarles Sandia North Circuit Visitor Christ Our Savior/ Sangre de Cristo, Angel Fire/ Taos, NM CIRCUIT 6 SANGRE DE CRISTO No report provided Rev. Lyle Stuehrenberg Sangre de Cristo Circuit Visitor St. John - Canon City, CO CIRCUIT 7 NORTHEAST No report provided. CIRCUIT 8 UTAH Holy Trinity in Logan continues to serve the Utah State University with about fifteen students attending. The baptized membership is around 100 souls. The elementary Sunday School class has grown from one to fifteen; the high school class has four students. The facility is being upgraded to ADA compliant, including an elevator. This last year there has been three baptisms and six confirmations. VBS has been well attended by non-members. The congregation has twelve acres of land south of Logan for future growth possibly a Preschool. A few new families have become members since our last convention. Pastor Joshua Heimbuck guides the congregation with zeal and heart. St. Paul s in Ogden, under the shepherding of Pastor Mark Christ, enjoy their Preschool kids and continue to welcome the parents to worship. The congregation has been very gracious to host the Circuit Reformation services, providing delicious food. The campus has seen some upgrades as well. SECTION III PAGE 21

22 CIRCUIT VISITOR REPORTS CIRCUIT 8 UTAH Cross of Christ still gathers the faithful in the wilderness of Bountiful, Utah to hear God s Word and receive His gifts. While several have been called home and some have moved, there are souls who have come to know Christ and be baptized. The congregation has also had long lost members return to the fold. Pastor Krause continues to build up the saints as they mature in Christ. St. John s in Salt Lake City, did a major remodel of their church and Preschool - new floors and windows, handicapped access, restored organ and stained glass, and Parsonage converted to Baby House. They have added two satellite Preschools - state licensed and Lutheran Schools accredited. There are two hundred children and fifty on staff. The After School program and summer programs are full. Pastor Hank Malone has his hands full though the congregation is small. African Ministries has expanded and EIT student is being monitored and supported. Refugee ministries are teaching English with the Bible as textbook. Redeemer Lutheran in Salt Lake is shifting gears a little after bidding Rev. David Fischer farewell and God-bless at his retirement party after about forty years of service there. Their new Shepherd, Kevin Belter, is enjoying his first call as well as being a new dad. The congregation continues to serve the area with their Word and Sacrament ministry, School, and satellite Preschool from St. John s. Christ Lutheran in Murray, are being served by Rev. Jerome Troester as they prepare to call a pastor. They have brought a School into the facility and are taking care of debt repayment and repairs. They are currently discussing how they can reach out to the community in the future. Grace in Sandy, under their newish Shepherd, Pastor Anthony Masinelli, has become way busy with reaching out to community and world, supporting all kinds of opportunities to do mission work, mercy work, and Bible Study. from Sandy to Haiti. They continue to evangelize the community with their School. Word and Sacrament are serious things to these saints. Holy Trinity in Riverton has truly been blessed these last three years. Pastor Al Borcher and the congregation have seen 35 baptisms 7 from the Daycare Program, and 25 confirmations, bringing membership to 266 from 155. A generous donation meant another half acre of property. Three new classrooms were added at no additional cost. A $10,000 grant from the State furnished the rooms. They serve kindergarten to grade four with fifty students. In 2016 the congregation was given a Partnership Award by LCEF for working with Capital Funding Services, Laborers for Christ, and mortgage services with LCEF. They maintain more than 35% of their membership as investors in LCEF. SMP vicar Robert Bennett has begun studies to enter the Holy Ministry as well. St. Mark s in Provo had to sell their property due to structural damage and shrinking numbers. They are worshipping in a rented building until they decide where exactly to branch out. Pastor Butch Carlson leads them in the pursuit of new ministry. Good Shepherd in Richfield is being served by Pastor Carlson, as they hang in against the threat of small numbers in the pews. The circuit congregations have created a fund for aiding times like SECTION III PAGE 22

23 CIRCUIT VISITOR REPORTS CIRCUIT 8 UTAH these and Good Shepherd is a thankful recipient. Trinity in Cedar City calls the city to Word and Sacrament ministry, served by Pastor Bob Sharp. Known for their potlucks and special meals, they welcome all who come through the door. Zion Lutheran in Kanab, after struggling for years to draw new members, is considering the sale of their property and finding creative ways to travel together for worship in St. George. They are quite sure that they are the Potluck Paradise in Utah, not Cedar city! Pastor Arthur Drehman has been serving them, a Worker Priest from Our Savior s (English District) in St. George. Trinity in St. George continues to provide solid Lutheran education to the community, though growth is tough both at School and Congregation. A plague of funerals and members moving in the last years has left the congregation at pretty much a stalemate in numbers. A kitchen remodel and constant upgrades and repairs keep the trustees humming. With services at the Veteran s Home and a golf league which plays every month, there s plenty to do for the many new adults becoming members through baptism and confirmation. The congregation often hosts concerts for the community. Pastor Manweiler loves his dumb sheep deeply, and they don t know any better, so they love him, too. CIRCUIT 9 WESTERN Rev. John Manweiler Utah Circuit Visitor Trinity - St. George, UT The Western Circuit consists of 12 congregations in Western Colorado and Northeast Utah: Faith Lutheran in Carbondale (Vacant), Faith Lutheran in Craig (Rev. Robert Oeltjen), Redeemer Lutheran in Delta (Rev. Kurt van Fossan), Gracious Savior Lutheran in Edwards (Rev. Jason Haynes), Lutheran Church of Messiah in Grand Junction (Rev. Michael Redeker), Mt. Calvary Lutheran in Gunnison (Rev. Robert Stevens), Grace Fellowship Lutheran in Gypsum (Rev. Austin Kraft), Hope Evangelical Lutheran in Montrose (Rev. Darryl Hannenberg), Immanuel Lutheran in Paonia (Rev. Duane Daeke), Emmanuel Lutheran in Rifle (Vacant), Concordia Lutheran in Steamboat Springs (Rev. Craig Henningfield), and Our Savior Lutheran in Vernal Utah (Vacant). During the past triennium there have been a number of Pastoral changes. Installed as Pastors have been Rev. Craig Henningfield at Concordia Lutheran in Steamboat Springs, Rev. Robert Oeltjen at Faith Lutheran in Craig, and Rev. Michael Redeker at Lutheran Church of Messiah in Grand Junction. Rev. Dan Rohlwing serving Grace Fellowship Lutheran in Gypsum retired and Rev. Austin Kraft was ordained and installed at Grace as Pastor in January Austin is completing course requirements for the SMP program. Those accepting calls elsewhere in God s Church was Jonathan Schultz from Our Savior in Vernal Utah to Estes Park, Colorado, Rev. Tom Thierfelder from Faith Lutheran in Carbondale to Kansas, and Rev. Ed Schmidt from Emmanuel Lutheran in Rifle to Tennessee. Faith Lutheran Church in Carbondale is currently in the calling process attempting to receive a Seminary candidate. Emmanuel Lutheran in Rifle and Our Savior Lutheran in Vernal, Utah are each currently in the process of calling a Pastor from the field. SECTION III PAGE 23

24 CIRCUIT VISITOR REPORTS The Pastors of the Western Circuit meet monthly for winkles, and are very supportive and encouraging to each other. Although geographically we are spread over many miles, we are closely knit together by the Good News of Christ Crucified and Resurrected. We are richly blessed daily by our Lord. Rev. Melvin Mertens Western Circuit Visitor Emeritus CIRCUIT 10 RIO GRANDE Trinity has been blessed with a couple more retired pastors, Rev. Kevin Cramm from the Oklahoma district and Rev. Terry Small from Iowa. Rev. Cramm has been adding to the spreading of the Word of God by teaching an evening Bible Study, and Sunday morning High School Bible study. He has also been assisting with vacancies in the Circuit. He is also going to teach a class on the Old Testament in South Sudan in March and April Mission offerings continue to increase as the Lord has continued to bless those who give to the Lord s work. We continue hiring college students to run a youth program over the summer. Even though the number of you has declined, the congregation wants to continue with this program. Trinity s youth enjoy getting together with other youth of the Circuit as Vicar Perry from Faith Las Cruces plans outings for the youth of the circuit. The Lord has blessed this congregation and we look forward to His directing us in the future. Faith Lutheran, in August of 2016, ended the bilingual service that it had been trying for several years, and restored an all-english worship. Since then, there has been a 76% increase in attendance for the Sunday worship. In May of 2016, An all-spanish Bible study began in September of 2016 and an all-spanish worship service was begun in May of 2017 and is now held two Sundays per month with an average of 15 worshippers. The youth ministry (including circuit-wide activities) began in March of 2017 and a college outreach began the fall semester of this present school year. A men's Bible study is held every Wednesday morning at 7:00 am at a Local coffee shop. Blessings! CIRCUIT 11 EASTERN HIGH PLAINS Rev. Bill Heithold Rio Grande Circuit Visitor Trinity - Alamogordo, NM No Report Received Eastern High Plains Circuit Visitor SECTION III PAGE 24

25 CIRCUIT VISITOR REPORTS CIRCUIT 12 FOUR CORNERS The four corners circuit has had four congregations with vacancies since However, all but one of them is now filled. Trinity Lutheran Cortez Colorado Pastor Barr Chittick retired last spring a few months before he passed. They are currently the only congregation in the circuit without a pastor. Pastor Gary Thur is serving this congregation in their vacancy. This is our only remaining vacancy. Trinity Lutheran Gallup New Mexico, Pastor Chris Kellogg accepted the call to Gallup and was installed this last summer. We are glad to have him there. Shepherd of the Desert Lutheran Church Navajo New Mexico, long time missionary Pastor Tim Norton was installed as Pastor at Shepherd of the Desert last spring to great fanfare. Shepherd of the Desert Lutheran Church Page Arizona: Pastor Tom Henkes has accepted the call to Shepherd of the Desert and was installed there in March. Grace Lutheran Church in Moab Utah is being served by John Widmer who is in the SMP program and will be ordained in June. This has been the focus of our Circuit s Gospel Gap Ministry. Our Savior Lutheran Church in Pagosa Springs Colorado. Pastor Andrew Packer has been serving this congregation for many years. Their school is going well and attracting many new members to the congregation which is looking at both calling an associate pastor and expanding their worship facilities. St. Paul s Lutheran Church in Durango Colorado. Pastor Ben Delin has been serving this congregation for many years now. He is very active in the community and this is also attracting new members to his congregation which is growing. Zion Lutheran Church Farmington New Mexico. Pastor Bror Erickson has been serving Zion for four years now and is also serving as CV for the Four Corners Circuit. Farmington has seen a large decline in population and was declared the fastest shrinking city in We have seen many members move and we are continuing to see this. However, the Lord is Good, and we have been even more blessed to see an uptick in New Members also. Our pastors meet regularly for our winkels at Zion in Farmington. This can be a great hardship to many who have to travel quite some distance to meet often over rather treacherous roads in the winter, and this can at times have an impact on our attendance and ability to follow a schedule. Yet we enjoy comradery and fellowship among those who make it and play it a little loose with the program. Our circuit s pool playing skills have sky rocketed. Currently this circuit is divided between regions. The majority of our congregations are in the Western Region. We have three in the southern region. However, this circuit has historically been aligned with circuits in the southern region for the purposes of Synodical Convention duties, and the brothers find it more convenient to attend the southern region Spring conferences. We hope that this convention will rectify this issue and vote to have the four corners circuit brought completely into the southern region. Your Brother in Christ Pastor Bror Erickson, CV Four Corners Circuit SECTION III PAGE 25

26 CIRCUIT VISITOR REPORTS CIRCUIT 13 PIKE S PEAK Like most circuits in the Rocky Mountain district, the Pikes Peak circuit faces challenges of reaching out into our communities with the saving message of Jesus Christ. There seems to be a perception by outsiders that the city of Colorado Springs is predominantly Christian and that there is a great deal of cooperation among churches as they share Christ. However, the Pikes Peak region deals with the same issues that others face in this increasingly secular culture. Some of our congregations have experienced growth and others are declining. Some of our congregations have had internal struggles in the past year, but have found the healing that comes through the power of the cross. God has provided faithful pastors to serve congregations that became vacant. Three congregations, Immanuel in Colorado Springs, Shepherd of the Springs in Colorado Springs and Faith in Buena Vista, had pastors retire, two of these congregations are now served new shepherds. As we said goodbye to Rev Dr Dennis Lucero (Immanuel), Rev Dr Steve Hein (Shepherd of the Springs), Rev Robert Shaibley (Shepherd of the Springs), and Rev Dan Muecke (Faith), we have also welcomed Pastor Dale (Andy) Becker at Faith in Buena Vista, CO and Pastor Jonathan Kern at Immanuel in Colorado Springs, CO. We thank God for these additions to our circuit. At the time of this report there are two calling congregations and a third that is vacant. Interim pastor, Rev. Al Kirk, was installed at Family of Christ in Monument, CO as the congregation continues the calling process for a senior pastor. Shepherd of the Springs in Colorado Springs is also in the process of calling a pastor. Family of Faith in Falcon, CO has a new vacancy pastor after retired pastor, Rev Norm Barnette, moved to Florida. They are now served by retired pastor, Rev Clare Skov. Holy Cross in Colorado Springs continues to be served by Pastors Doug Brauner, Sr Pastor, and Pastor Jeffrey Meinz, Director of Worship Ministries. The congregation said goodbye Pastor Dave Hall and hello to DCE Dan Hampton, Director of Growth Ministries. First Lutheran in Salida, CO is still faithfully served by Pastor William Cate. Redeemer Lutheran in Colorado Springs, CO is still faithfully served by Pastor Donald Widger. Resurrection Lutheran in Colorado Springs, CO is still faithfully served by Pastor Joel Dieterichs. Rock of Ages Lutheran in Colorado Springs, CO is still faithfully served by Pastor James Maxwell who will also assume the position of Circuit Visitor in the next triennium. Rock of Ages has also become a training congregation for future pastors through vicarage placement. The congregation is also hosted this year s Spring Tri-Circuit conference. Rev. Doug Brauner Pikes Peak Circuit Visitor Holy Cross - Colorado Spring, CO SECTION III PAGE 26

27 CIRCUIT VISITOR REPORTS CIRCUIT 14 DENVER SOUTHEAST In the past three years the twelve congregations of the Denver South East Circuit have been blessed by the preaching of the Gospel and the administration of the sacraments according to Christ our Lord s institution for the forgiveness of sins. As a circuit, we rejoice in our common confession as we preach and teach God s Word according to the doctrine contained in the Book of Concord, Our twelve congregations are located in the cities of Denver (2), Aurora (4), Centennial (1), Parker (1), Franktown (1), Castle Rock (2), and Elizabeth (1). Pastoral Changes in the Circuit: During this triennium, Rev Tim Lawson left Cross of Christ (now part of Acts Lutheran Church) when he accepted a call to Saving Grace Lutheran church in Queen Creek, AZ. Rev. Carlton Hein accepted a call into the circuit at Mount Zion, Castle Rock. Rev Brian Flamme left Hope, Aurora when he accepted a call to be senior administrative pastor of Immanuel in Roswell, NM. Rev Mike Hiller retired in May 2018 as senior administrative pastor of Peace with Christ, after serving there for 33 years! PWC will be served during their call process by Rev Mike Paulison, their associate pastor and mission developer. Our Circuit considered planting a preaching station in the new development in SE Aurora. However, we are not convinced of the need for another location given the nearby proximity of our established congregations in Aurora and Parker, and the mobility of the population. In other words, we believe that today most people don t mind driving minutes to a congregation. The Circuit hosted a Forum at Grace, Parker in January The Rev. Scott Able, Senior Pastor at Our Father, Centennial was our speaker on the topic: Does God Exist? Defending the Faith in a Faithless World. We continue to foster cooperation in reaching the lost and friendships between congregations while we seek new opportunities to proclaim the Gospel and live as salt and light for our circuit region and beyond. Congregational Reports Submitted Peace with Christ, Aurora Report: Since the last convention Peace With Christ has added a new worship leader. Isaac Ristow began his ministry in August of In May of 2018 Pastor Michael Hiller retired after thirty-six years of ministry at PWC. Rev. Michael Paulison will serve as the interim pastor until a new pastor is found. The school and the early learning center continue to minister to numerous young people and their families. Numerous mission trips have been taken to Mexico, Houston, and other sites as the needs presented themselves. Hope, Aurora Report: The saints of Hope Lutheran Church continue to rejoice in the Lord's Word and mercy, celebrating 65 years of hearing the promise of the forgiveness of sins in north Aurora. Here are a few highlights from the past few years. On July 6, 2014, Pastor Brian Flamme was ordained and installed a pastor of Hope. His three+ years of services to the congregation were a blessing and ended in October 2017 when he accepted the call to Immanuel Lutheran Church in Roswell, NM. For the past two years, Hope has made some building repairs and upgrades, including installing an elevation and remodeling the office. Hope hosted a number of conferences in the past years, including the first annual Hope Live conference this past Easter season. For the school year Hope leased the school building to the Vega Academy, a charter school focused on college preparation. God's mercy continues to be, for us, new every morning. Acts, Aurora Report: Acts was formed in 2016 as a merger between Cross of Christ, Aurora (now disbanded) and The Experience. Pastor Mike Paulison is assisting the congregation as they consider their next steps. They currently meet in members homes. Rev. Joseph Murphy Denver Southeast Circuit Visitor Grace - Parker, CO SECTION III PAGE 27

28 CIRCUIT VISITOR REPORTS CIRCUIT 15 DENVER NORTHEAST How can we live the Christian life in the modern world? While it sounds like a pertinent question for today, it actually comes from Pastor Dietrich Bonhoeffer s book, The Cost of Discipleship, first published over 80 years ago. The question remains an important topic for congregations as they deal with contemporary issues facing Christians in society. How does one maintain a faithful, yet winsome witness to those who are not aware of or do not share our values and faith? How does the church respond to the shifts that have taken place in the country, as the church no longer enjoys the position that it once did? As congregations struggle with these questions, they often do so with a declining and aging membership. Congregations may no longer able to support a full time pastor. These factors are true, not only of a number of Denver Northeast congregations, but of many congregations in this country. While these factors can lead to discouragement and even a more inward than outward focus, encouragement is found in the precious gospel of the crucified and risen Christ. That gospel is still faithfully proclaimed in the Denver Northeast Circuit, not only in congregational settings, but also by individuals in word and deed as relationships are built with those who do not yet know Christ. What a blessing it is when congregations and individuals love and serve their neighbors.! It gives rise to opportunities for sharing the message of Christ, the One who loved and served us! When we are feeling anxious about the status of the church, we do well to remember that the church belongs to Christ. Therein we find hope. May the Spirit, who has brought us into the church, continue to refine, lead, and guide us. Rev. Roger Schlechte Denver Northeast Circuit Visitor Resurrection in the City - Denver, C) CIRCUIT 16 ROCKY FLATS The Rocky Flats circuit consists of nine congregations north of Denver along the Front Range. These last three years we continued to meet monthly for Circuit Winkels, each time celebrating the Lord s Supper together with devoted times for Bible Study, Topical/Confessional Study, business and casuistry. Those that attend regularly express the personal benefits they receive from these times together as brothers. Early in 2016 our circuit visitor, Dan Burhop from University Lutheran Chapel took a call to another district and Keith Besel of Mt. Calvary Lutheran, Ft. Lupton, was appointed by the District President to replace him. University Lutheran Chapel (ULC) welcomed Joshua Hayes as their pastor in May ULC, the only full-time campus ministry in the RMD, is our circuit s primary Gospel Gap supported mission. The ULC Mission Society remains a very healthy and important means of support for the ministry of ULC. We regularly (usually once per year) host an Elders Workshop where the attending elders and pastors gather for training from a guest speaker and a time of mutual conversation and support. The last three springs, our tri-circuit has joined together with the Denver circuits for a pastors conference in Estes Park. Kent Schnegelberger retired from Messiah Lutheran, Longmont in June 2015 after which Messiah took part in the Intentional Interim process led by Craig Patterson. In April 2017 Messiah welcomed Ron Reiger as their new pastor. SECTION III PAGE 28

29 CIRCUIT VISITOR REPORTS CIRCUIT 17 SANDIA SOUTH The Lord continues to bless the congregations and pastors of the Rocky Flats Circuit mightily with His many gifts of grace. CIRCUIT 17 SANDIA SOUTH Rocky Flats Circuit Visitor Sandia South is made up of half of the dual electoral Circuit with Sandia North. The congregations of Sandia South are Calvary Lutheran Church, Rio Rancho; Christ the King Lutheran Church. Los Lunas; Hope Lutheran Church, Socorro; Immanuel Lutheran Church, Albuquerque; Mt. Calvary Lutheran Church, Grants; Our Savior Lutheran Church, Albuquerque; and Redeemer Lutheran Church, Albuquerque. Shepherd of the Hills LC, Rio Rancho has recently closed; Pastor Ken DeSoto is receiving chaplaincy training in New Orleans. Robert R. Mueller, Chaplain at Veterans Administration s Hospital Albuquerque is also active in the Circuit. The two Circuits meet together and make most decisions together. Pastors of the two Sandia Circuits are faithfully meeting monthly for fellowship, Bible study, a study of the Confessions, typically an additional Topic, personal sharing, and a sermon with Holy Communion! In the last years the Circuits have celebrated together the 498 th, 499 th, 500 th Anniversaries of the Reformation. On March 11, 2018 the Circuits gathered for the installation of Pastor Marsh Shamburger as a pastor in the LCMS ministerium and chaplain to UNM; Grace Lutheran Church is the sponsoring congregation. The RMD Southern Region LCMS Pastors' Conference, Santa Fe is happening in our Sandia Circuits April 18-20, Calvary Lutheran Church, Rio Rancho, NM, in recent years, installed their new Pastor, Pastor Quintin Cundiff! The Congregation has been active with ministry including the March for Life in Santa Fe, where a Lutheran presence witnessed about the truths of the Sanctity of Life for the sake of the unborn at the Roundhouse, the State Building. And a solid Lutheran witness was given with the area Catholic and Lutherans Dialogue. Christ the King Lutheran Church, Los Lunas, NM, and Hope Lutheran Church, Socorro NM, have recently decided together to become a dual parish; and they are in the process of Calling a Pastor! At this time the two congregations are enjoying their enjoying their vacancy pastor and preachers. Christ the King s beloved Pastor of many years, Pastor Alan Coleman, went to heaven after a long illness last year. Immanuel Lutheran Church, Albuquerque, NM, on August 13, 2017 installed their new pastor, Pastor Dustin Kear! Missionary Danelle Putnam gave a presentation about her ministry in Dominican Republic at Bible Study on Feb. 18, On May 5 th and 6 th 2018 they will celebrate a Mission Festival Weekend with Pastor Heimer from Ysleta Lutheran Mission preaching. On October , Immanuel Lutheran Church is celebrating their 100 th Anniversary with Rev. Randy Walquist preaching. Currently they have a call out to Patricia Maree to serve as our Kindergarten teacher an there is currently an additional vacancy for next year in the 2nd Grade Teacher. The 8 th grade teacher Emily Cotter has received a call to St Paul s Lutheran church in Arlington, NE to teach 5 th and 6 th grade; at present she has not made a decision. SECTION III PAGE 29

30 CIRCUIT VISITOR REPORTS Mt. Calvary Lutheran Church, Grants, NM, has a pastoral vacancy. Pastor Craig Furry is serving them two Sundays a month. Our Savior Lutheran Church, Albuquerque, NM, has been active with ministry with all kinds of outreach into the neighborhood. The two pastors, Pastor Jay Mason and newly ordained Pastor Craig Furry serve Our Savior and vacancy preach around the Circuit. Redeemer Lutheran Church, Albuquerque, NM, has been active with ministry with outreach into the neighborhood. Pastor Glenn Weber, a former Vicar of Redeemer, shared a Prayer Weekend, teaching practical use of prayer for the neighborhood. Most recently a Gospel witness has been shared with Coffee & Donuts to neighborhood. The congregation hosted the Circuits for the 499 th Anniversary of the Reformation! The members rejoice to participate with the people and staff of God Cares About You, an east Central Mission, supported by many Circuit congregations. St. Andrew Church Plant is in the south-west area of Albuquerque. Faith in Christ Lutheran Church is the mother congregation. Missionary Pastor Adam DeGroot will be installed April 8 th, 2018! Several circuit pastors have served the church plant, which continues to grow. This mission is also supported by the Sandia Circuits. God Cares about You an East-Central Mission, is sponsored by Christ Lutheran. Pastor Mark Kluzek served until called to churches in Iowa. Now lay people and Pastors serve food, clothing, and the Gospel to the poor people of the area. Several Baptisms have happened among the people; and several are working toward confirmation! The mission continues to grow. This is also supported by the Sandia Circuits. Pastor John Heffelfinger Sandia South Circuit Visitor Redeemer Albuquerque, NM SECTION III PAGE 30

31 LWML REPORT LUTHERAN WOMEN'S MISSIONARY LEAGUE Lutheran Women's Missionary League is the official women's auxiliary to the LCMS and was established in LWML has always been mission focused, which means sharing the Gospel with the world far and near, as we serve our Lord with glad ness. The LWML from its inception has encouraged and promoted Bible study, fellowship, and mentoring in organizational and leadership skills. There are two requirements to be a LWML Society: Bible Study and collecting "mites." Patterned after the story of the poor widow that gave her "mites" as an offering to God, LWML "mites" are also offered with prayer. Contributions of pennies, nickels, dimes, quarters and even dollars are donated to fund mission opportunities around the world. When LWML was first established, the ladies were focused on helping the seminary students; while that is still hap pening in LWML today, we have spread that financial help to mission opportunities all over the world. The emphasis when contributing mites is to include both prayer and coins; as the mite donation is placed in the mite box, a prayer is also said asking God's blessings and nourishment on a particular mission grant recipient. National LWML consists of 40 districts, and at the biennial National LWML Conventions, a new mite goal is set, and delegates to the convention select the mission opportunities (called Mission Grants) to be funded. The Mission Grants to be paid out this biennium ( ) is $2,075,000.00! LWML Rocky Mt. District consists of Colorado, New Mexico, Vernal, UT, Page, AZ, and El Paso, TX. The circuits of churches within the districts are called "zones." The zones are comprised of groups of LWMLers from the churches within the zone and are listed as "societies." LWML RMD has 11 Zones with approximately 88 active societies and a membership of over Mites are collected on the society, zone and district levels; 25% of the mites collected from these three areas are sent to National to fund the Mission Grants there while 75% of the mites collected remain in the district to fund their mission grants. The mite goal for LWML-RMD was $80, for the biennium and all mission grants were funded! All Bible studies and Biblical resources from society level to National, go through LCMS doctrinal review, and LWML meetings/functions on all the levels include pastoral leadership. LWML offers opportunities for LCMS women of all ages: teens, young women, single women, married, divorced, or wid owed to be engaged in the Word and equipped spiritually and emotionally so that strengthened in their faith in the Triune God, they are encouraged to use their gifts and talents in ministry to the people of the world! Blessings, Sylvia Bean LWML RMD President SECTION III PAGE 31

32 CONGREGATIONAL SERVICES Joyfully and loudly we Declare His glory among the nations and His marvelous works among all peoples (Psalms 96:3). Our District is richly blessed through the ministries of faithful DCE s who nurture the faith of children, youth, and families. During this triennium we ve celebrated with many who have retired and rejoiced at the arrival of so many new men and women. It s a remarkable privilege to serve alongside this creative, passionate, and supportive group. Providing critical ministry leadership within our congregations and jointly for the District s efforts are those serving in capacities of Directors of Youth, Christian education, Family Ministry, Child Ministry, Music Ministry, Adult Ministries, and Camp ministry. In all, more than 40 men and women faithfully serve the church in both general and specialized roles! Many of these people serve the District as well, including leadership roles in monthly Affinity Group gatherings and in our District s Youth Gathering. Lutheran education is a significant part of our heritage. By God s grace many of our congregations continue operating Early Childhood centers and elementary schools and still others support the ministry of our Lutheran High. A quick review of enrollment and other statistics reveals the great challenges and opportunities. Our educators maintain a servant-hearted focus as they proclaim the Gospel message in a clear manner to students and families. During the last triennium the following schools/centers closed ministry operations: Christ Lutheran School and ECC, Murray, UT Shepherd of the Hills ECC, Rio Rancho, NM Hope ECC, Boulder, CO God s Promises Learning Center at Peace with Christ, Ft. Collins, CO ECC Faith, Woodland Park, CO We rejoice that God s name is proclaimed in 33 Early Childhood Centers, 25 elementary schools (most of which have ECC programs) and one high school spread throughout the District. In 2017 our Executive for Administration took a position of ministry with one of our congregations. This change, of course, means a shift of duties within the office as the Board of Directors prioritizes goals and formalizes plans. In the meantime the work of that office has been shifted primarily to Congregational Services. The District s Financial reports are included in this Workbook and I encourage your prayerful, careful review and analysis of congregational giving and District allocation of funds. Also available for your review is a report of the 2018 Audit which was conducted April Together with President Anderson and Mrs. Hjalmquist, I stand ready to assist and support our church workers and our ministries as together we declare His glory and marvelous works. We are thankful for the multitude of ways you show God s love to each other and within your contexts. To God be the glory! In Christ, Pastor Paul Albers SECTION III PAGE 32

33 FINANCIAL REPORT SECTION III PAGE 33

34 FINANCIAL REPORT SECTION III PAGE 34

35 FINANCIAL REPORT SECTION III PAGE 35

36 DEBT ASSITANCE PROGRAM Educational debt continues to be an issue making national headlines. It is also an issue that impacts pastors and other church workers. Pastors can accrue significant debt from undergraduate and seminary study which can add financial stress to their ministry and impact the length of their stay at a particular congregation. The potential of significant debt may also deter otherwise qualified men from studying for the pastoral ministry. It is encouraging that the two seminaries of the LCMS announced earlier in 2018 that they will now cover 100% of the tuition for church-work students. But students will continue to graduate with debt to pay for non-tuition expenses, such as housing and food, insurance, books, supplies and fees. Since 1998, the Rocky Mountain District s Debt Assistance Program (DAP) has assisted District pastors with their educational debt. In the past triennium, $16,740 was distributed to 18 pastors in 2015, $15,000 was distributed to 15 pastors in 2016 and $21,500 was distributed to 16 pastors in The average educational debt per applicant was $52,467 in 2015, $46,111 in 2016 and $43,764 in Due to gifts and interest, the endowment fund balance, which stood at $420,105 on 1/31/16, has increased to $436,827 as of 1/31/18. The Committee wishes to thank God for His blessings, and thank all those who have donated to the fund. A special thank you goes to the Rocky Mountain District LWML for its continued support, donating $13,500 to the fund during the last triennium. The DAP Committee thanks the District staff, especially Doug Ullmann, for their work in administering the DAP. The Committee also thanks Ed Kilgore and Bob Borgstede for their service. With their retirement from the Committee, it currently consists of Gordon Wagner and myself. If anyone would like to serve on the DAP Committee, please contact the District office. In Christ s Holy Name, Rev. Roger Wohletz DAP Committee Member SECTION III PAGE 36

37 SCHOLARSHIP COMMITTEE ROCKY MOUNTAIN DISTRICT TUITION GRANT REPORT The Rocky Mountain District is blessed to provide tuition assistance in the form of grants, to students who are members of the district, attending any Concordia University or Seminary. Tuition assistance is primarily made through endowment funding from generous families and individuals who chose to name the Rocky Mountain District as benefactor. By and large, tuition assistance is primarily for applicants whose academic studies are in areas where they become future church workers; pastors, educators, DCEs, and the like. During the academic year $27, in grants were sent to students attending both seminaries and $15, to students attending various Concordia Universities. Next, during the academic year $32, in grants were sent to students attending both seminaries and $22, was sent to students attending various Concordia Universities. Lastly, during the academic year $27, in grants were sent to students at both seminaries and $18, to students at various Concordia Universities. SECTION III PAGE 37

38 SCHOOL MINISTRY SCHOOL MINISTRY COMMITTEE The School Ministry Committee works in partnership with Paul Albers, District Executive for Congregational Services, to support the ministry of Lutheran schools throughout the district. The committee is responsible for the annual Nurturing the Faith gatherings, a week-long series of spiritual growth opportunities for church and school staff members held around the district. The School Committee is also responsible for the program of recognition for educator, early childhood director, and administrator of the year as well as planning the administrators conference held in conjunction with the Professional Church Workers Conference in October. Recent topics have included the legal issues facing Lutheran schools, ministry with the millennial generation (today s school parents), reaching out into our communities effectively with the Gospel message, effective leadership, and spiritual growth for staff members. At the 2016 national convention, the LCMS passed Resolution 8-01A which charges districts and schools to work to continue to faithfully proclaim the Gospel message in a clear manner. The School Ministry Committee, in looking to faithfully carry out this charge, has put together an instrument to collect best practices from district schools and early childhood centers. Once compiled, these will be disseminated to schools and centers. William Busacker, Emeritus-Chairman Loren Otte, Principal St. John s, Denver, CO Gwen Marshall RM District Early Childhood Consultant Director-Trinity Lutheran Preschool, Denver, CO Mark Angell Principal, Immanuel, Albuquerque, NM SECTION III PAGE 38

39 CONSTITUTION COMMITTEE Members: Rev. Dean Boernke, Chairman, Zion, Brighton, James Greer, Peace, Arvada Arvin Michel, Ascension, Littleton The current Rocky Mountain District Constitution Committee began its work in October, We have examined twenty-six (26) constitutions/bylaws through March, They are studied and compared to the LCMS Guidelines For The Constitution And Bylaws Of A Lutheran Congregation. Sixteen (16) were submitted to the District Board of Directors for their approval. Ten (10) are pending approval, by the Committee, after returning them to their congregation for further consideration to meet the Synodical Guidelines and/or to resolve some noted issues. Most of the reviews have been focused on changes and updates for existing constitutions/bylaws. A few new constitutions/ bylaws were also reviewed. Rev. Dean Boernke, Chairman SECTION III PAGE 39

40 SOAR Summary report to Rocky Mountain District LCMS- 3/7/18 Once again we conducted our two day Gathering seminar on September 18, 2017, and one day seminar on February 10th, Both were held at Bethlehem Lutheran, Lakewood. The Gathering agenda, under the theme, Our Reformation Heritage, included: Dr Gregory Seltz- Reformation Mission; Capacity, Tenacity and Candor to Boast In Him, and LHM- Using The Challenges of the Digital Culture To Share The Gospel Health Speaker, Rebecca Gillett, on Understanding and Managing Arthritis Speaker, Mt Steve Hinson from Habitat For Humanity: Building Strength, Stability, Self-Reliance, and Shelter Speaker, Rev. Robert Tasler, did an imitation of Martin and Phillip Dr. Gila Jim Mendedo, from Lutheran Bible Translators Devotions by Dr. Norbert Kleidon Closing Worship by Rev David Langewisch 27 free guests attended the conference. No financial support was requested from RMD in 2017 The February theme was Enhancing Ones Quality Of Life Speaker, Pastor Drew Ross, Delivering Dignity To The Homeless Speaker, Virginia Ortiz, from Mile High Ministries (a collaborative partnership of 10 ten local churches) on local and national data and local community development Programs. Medical speaker, Jolene Webb- Hammond, Red Flags For Neck And Back Pain Approx. $1,400 was collected For Lutheran Bible Translators. SECTION III PAGE 40

41 DISABILITY MINISTRY Disability Ministry Task Force The Rocky Mountain District Disability Ministry Task Force was established to assist churches, schools, pastors and lay leaders in facilitating the practice of inclusion for those with disabilities in spiritual growth and congregational life. The Task Force Committee started their work by contacting all churches and pastors of the district to ascertain their needs for disability services, ministry and inclusion practices and apprising them of the Disability Task Force page on the district website which lists disability ministry resources and helps, as well as contact information for members of the Task Force. Task Force members are "on call" for congregations and pastors who would like assistance in better serving people with disabilities. There are currently four Task Force members and an adviser/consultant from Bethesda Lutheran Communities available to assist congregations. The Disability Ministry Task Force has contributed several articles to RMD publications highlighting ministries and inclusive practices in many congregations throughout the district. Members of the Task Force have visited circuit meetings to get to know pastors, support them in ministering to people of all abilities and assist in providing inclusive practices by offering training and disability ministry resources to both professional staff and lay members of the congregation. Samples of disability ministry resources have been given at the circuit meetings as well as mailed to each congregation within the Rocky Mountain District. Task Force members are available to assist in equipping day school teachers, Sunday School teachers, VBS leaders, youth leaders, Bible study and worship leaders, ushers and greeters and all other volunteers within the church in better understanding those with disabilities and facilitating the practice of including them in the life of the congregation. The Disability Ministry Task Force has been active in the ongoing Medicaid issue, prayerfully working so that those with disabilities do not lose necessary life services and assistance. Working with state and national leaders on the Medicaid issue has been a priority for the Task Force. Promotion of the new and improved confirmation instruction material for people with disabilities has also been a priority for the Task Force with samples of this material having been sent to each congregation in the RMD. The Task Force looks forward to many more opportunities to assist congregations with Disability Ministry needs and the practice of inclusion. Task Force member contact information and disability resources are available by clicking the "Ministries" option on the Rocky Mountain District website and following to the Disability Ministry Task Force web page. SECTION III PAGE 41

42 LCEF Lutheran Church Extension Fund Rocky Mountain District The mission of the Lutheran Church Extension Fund is to support the Church in fulfilling its mission of sharing the Gospel of Jesus Christ by being a Christ-centered servant partner of the LCMS, ensuring that funds and services are available now and in the future. Rocky Mountain District Triennium Highlights Investments: $63,922,039 Investors: 3,422 New Investors: 1,743 Loans: $67,656,298 Congregation: 97 RCW: 24 Services: Architect Advisory Capital Funding Consecrated Stewards Vision Path Laborers For Christ Services Utilized: 17 Funds return for District Ministry Signature Sponsorship Grants: $55,000 Kaleidoscope Grants: $122,000 Loan Rebates: $332,730 Earnings Distributions: $271,112 TOTAL: $780,842 Serving your Rocky Mountain District Kevin Grein, Vice President kevin.grein@lcef.org Terree Arthurs, Administrative Assistant terree.arthurs@lcef.org Kent Schnegelberger, Promotions kent.schnegelberger@lcef.org SECTION III PAGE 42