Tanque Verde Lutheran Church Tucson, AZ Completed: 01/19/2018 The Ministry Site Profile (MSP) is intended for use by congregations and church-related organizations that are seeking to call an ordained or lay rostered minister of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America, or a First Call candidate for rostered ministry. Congregations must complete the entire MSP. Church-related organizations may, with the concurrence of the synod bishop, complete only the required sections (Part I, III and IV). Once complete, this form is submitted electronically to your synod bishop for review and posting to the Current Openings listing on the ELCA website (www.elca.org/call). PART I: WHO WE ARE Name and Location Summary Description We are a joyful congregation of over 1,000 baptized members committed to making a difference in the world. We welcome all to our services and membership. We have strong lay leadership and an accomplished staff. We want to dream big and look forward in faith. We seek a Lead Pastor to proclaim the Gospel, administer the sacraments and help us grow in discipleship. CONGREGATION Tanque Verde Lutheran Church 07368 CONGREGATION/MULTIPLE POINT PARISH/ ORGANIZATION NAME CONG ID Tucson, AZ, 85749 US CITY, STATE, ZIP COUNTRY Grand Canyon Synod (2D) Congregation - Organized 1974 SYNOD TYPE OF MINISTRY SITE YEAR ORGANIZED Large city (250,000 or more) SIZE OF COMMUNITY Contact Information Ministry Site (preferred contact information) 8625 E Tanque Verde Rd Tucson, AZ, 85749 US ADDRESS LINE 1 ADDRESS LINE 2 CITY, STATE, ZIP COUNTRY office@tvlc.org tvlc.org (520) 749-1606 (520) 749-9814 E-MAIL WEB SITE PHONE FAX Chairperson of Congregation or Head of the Organization Gerd Renno NAME 3067 N Fennimore Tucson, AZ, 85749 US ADDRESS LINE 1 ADDRESS LINE 2 CITY, STATE, ZIP COUNTRY (520) 975-8924 DAY PHONE EVENING PHONE CELL PHONE FAX gerdrenno@gmail.com 2/21/2018 5:03:40 PM Page 1 of 12
E-MAIL Chairperson of Call or Search Committee Marge Johnson NAME 10607 E Rose Hill St Tucson, AZ, 85747 US ADDRESS LINE 1 ADDRESS LINE 2 CITY, STATE, ZIP COUNTRY (520) 247-6922 DAY PHONE EVENING PHONE CELL PHONE FAX margella@me.com E-MAIL Demographics Language Spoken In the congregation/ organization English PRIMARY LANGUAGE SECOND LANGUAGE THIRD LANGUAGE In the surrounding community English Spanish Race/ Ethnicity (In the Congregation) PRIMARY LANGUAGE SECOND LANGUAGE THIRD LANGUAGE Caucasian (95%) Hispanic (5%) Other (5%) LARGEST SECOND THIRD FOURTH COMMENTS OR EXPLANATION Some people declare multiple ethnic heritages. Race/ Ethnicity (Surrounding Community) Caucasian (85%) Hispanic (5%) African American (5%) Asian / Pacific Islander (5%) LARGEST SECOND THIRD FOURTH COMMENTS OR EXPLANATION Some people declare multiple ethnic heritages. Gender comparison Age distribution 44% 56% 10% 15% 20% 30% 25% MALE FEMALE 19 YEARS OR YOUNGER 20-34 35-49 50-65 OVER 65 Number of Paid Staff 2 0 11 1 1 1 CLERGY LAY ROSTERED OTHER LAY PROFESSIONALS SECRETARIAL SUPPORT CUSTODIAL SUPPORT OTHER Congregational Information 251-400 101+ Single site AVE WEEKLY WORSHIP ATTENDANCE AVE ATTENDANCE IN CHRISTIAN EDUCATION PARISH TYPE 2/21/2018 5:03:40 PM Page 2 of 12
Distance members live from church facilities: 0% 0% 20% 80% 1/2 MILE OR LESS 1/2-1 MILE 1-3 MILES MORE THAN 3 MILES Community Type Bedroom community College or University Farming Inner City Mining/logging Ranching Industrial Resort Retirement Budget of the Congregation/ Organization 2016 LAST FISCAL YEAR $858,000 $1,475,000 TOTAL BUDGET FOR THE LAST FISCAL YEAR $41,000 $452,000 MISSION SUPPORT TO THE ELCA/ SYNOD FOR THE LAST FISCAL YEAR TOTAL DEBT OF THE CONGREGATION/ ORGANIZATION AT THE END OF THE LAST FISCAL YEAR TOTAL SAVINGS, RESERVES, ENDOWMENT AT THE END OF THE LAST FISCAL YEAR PART II: OUR VISION FOR MISSION Trends in the Community Context of the Congregation or Organization Characteristics: Write a description of your community in terms of socio-economic status, demographics, primary areas of employment and lifestyle. The Demographic ZIP Code report for your primary ZIP codes may be helpful. Tanque Verde Lutheran Church is located in a suburban, largely residential community on the northeast side of Tucson. Tucson, with a metropolitan population of 1 million, is the second largest city in Arizona. The surrounding community is estimated to be 85% Caucasian, with a Hispanic-identifying population of 10%. The median age is 47 and the average household AGI is over $100,000. The area is 60% white-collar. The area has median income, age, and education levels that are higher than the respective state medians. Tucson s largest employers are the University of Arizona, Raytheon Missile Systems, and Davis-Monthan Air Force Base. The greater Tucson metropolitan area has characteristics that are much more diverse (i.e. 62% Hispanic; AGI ranges in regions from $16K to $142K) and are consistent with those church programs addressing lower socio-economic needs of the community. The fantastic weather and warm temperatures also attract retirees, including winter visitors. Trends: List three changes or trends within the congregation or organization which have occurred in the last three to five years. 1. We are financially solvent and growing in stewardship. Our General Fund budget has increased 30% since 2011 and the percentage of pledges made has also significantly increased. A capital campaign in 2014 raised over one-half million dollars in cash and pledges for renewal of our property. 2. We are growing in membership and attendance. Average worship attendance was 367 in 2015 and is now over 400. Our baptized membership was 979 in 2014, 1021 in 2015, and 1083 in 2016. In 2017, over 30 new members have joined. 3. We are growing in outreach, children youth and family ministries. We just hired a Director of Youth and Family Ministries. A new service, The Gathering, was added to our weekend services in 2017. In 2018 we are sending a mission team to Haiti for the third consecutive year and we will send a group of 13 to the ELCA National Youth Gathering in Houston. 2/21/2018 5:03:40 PM Page 3 of 12
Context: List three ways that the community in which you are located has been challenged by change and transition in the last three to five years. In 2017, the Tucson metropolitan area showed modest growth in population and incomes. Job growth was flat, but is expected to show substantial gains in the near future due to major expansion plans recently announced by Raytheon and Caterpillar. Median home prices increased over 9% in the past 12 months. However overall median prices still do not exceed 2006 record levels, making the Tucson area a more affordable housing marketplace compared to others in the southwest. The Tanque Verde School District continues to rank high when compared to other area districts and exceeds State averages. Programs: Describe your congregation's or organization's current programs for mission and ministry. FAITH FORMATION: Programs for two-year olds through adults includes Sunday School, VBS, Milestone Ministries, Confirmation, High school youth group, and Bible Studies. FELLOWSHIP AND OUTREACH: Programs that support our members and reach out to the community and into the world include Creation Care, Hospitality, ELCA Day of Service, Food Pantry, Baby Hats, Quilters, Holiday Food Baskets, Roots family ministries, and a Haiti team. PERSONNEL: Operates as an HR unit to support equitable treatment of staff. PRESCHOOL AND KINDERGARTEN: Has offered Christian education to the community since 1979. PROPERTY: Oversees campus revitalization and supports facility management. RISK MANAGEMENT: Works to ensure a safe campus. STEWARDSHIP: Supports the Endowment Committee and a Fall Commitment Drive. TECHNOLOGY: Oversees all church technology for administrative and ministry tasks including sound and video. WORSHIP AND MUSIC: Supports worship services and more including Homebound Ministers, Prayer Chain, Chancel Choir, Saturday Night Musicians, and Adult and Youth Ringers. Goals: What are the primary goals of your ministry site (please refer to any Strategic Plan that has been adopted). In 2015, the Congregation Council set three goals: 1) Add a new worship service - In early 2017 we started The Gathering, a less formal worship service focusing on attracting families and young persons; 2) Add a Director of Volunteer Ministries - The Volunteer Director is delayed, but a new Director of Children and Youth Ministries was hired the fall 2017; and, 3) Determine how to actively invite campus visitors to join in ministry with us - Beyond the new Gathering service, no action has been taken on how to actively invite campus visitors to join in ministry. The congregation desires to maintain and grow its presence in the community, and is now looking for inspiration to develop and work on new goals and continue our spiritual growth journey. Energy: What is your congregation or organization really excited about right now? We currently do not have a current strategic plan in place. The Short term goal is to move out of the transition process and build on our existing strengths: Lively worship services; Engaging music programs; Multiple ministries; Great facilities and staff. The goal with a new lead pastor is to develop a new strategic plan in 2018. Partnership: How does this congregation or organization see itself as a member and active participant in the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America and the synod? This church has proven through action that it is firmly committed to being a member and active participant in the ELCA and Grand Canyon Synod. In 2010, following the work of a grassroots group of members, the congregation voted to confirm its commitment to the ELCA. The pastor resigned and about 1/3 of the congregation left. Those difficult times resulted in renewed optimism, emergent leadership, a new lead pastor and an associate pastor with youth and family responsibilities, and a strong identity with the ELCA. Mission Support is 5.4% of unrestricted offerings. This is not at the level that the council or congregation desires, but the percentage is re-examined each year. Offerings from Wednesday night Lenten services are directed to ELCA World Hunger. Average annual offerings to ELCA hunger totaled over $5,500.The congregation also supports Lutheran Social Services of the Southwest, campus ministry at the three in-state universities, and CLU/PLTS. 2/21/2018 5:03:40 PM Page 4 of 12
Ministry Site Characteristics A LOT LIKE US AS A COMMUNITY A LITTLE A LITTLE LIKE US LIKE US A LOT LIKE US We tend to be formal and programmatic. We tend to be informal and spontaneous. We have clearly defined goals and plans for our future. We have no stated goals or plans. We are racially and economically diverse. We are demographically homogeneous. We welcome ideas that are provoking and challenging. OUR LEADERSHIP STYLE We prefer ideas that are tried and true. We rely on our leaders for direction. We rely on group decision-making. We have learned how to use conflict constructively. Our facilities are often used by community groups. We tend to perceive conflict as something destructive. OUR PROGRAMMING Our facilities are only used for our activities. We train people to minister outside our walls. We train people to minister inside our walls. We focus on ideas and beliefs. We focus on skills and action. We are obviously Lutheran in identify and practice. OUR THEOLOGICAL PERSPECTIVE We are less obvious about our Lutheran heritage. We participate in synod and ELCA activities. We are not very active in the synod and ELCA. We focus on Biblical studies and doctrine. We focus on contemporary issues and topics. 2/21/2018 5:03:40 PM Page 5 of 12
Purpose, Giftedness and Mission Purpose Giftedness Mission How does this congregation or organization understand its reason for being in the light of God's call to mission and service? Who are you? Why are you here? Our mission is To follow Christ Jesus and share His love. Our vision is To become a dynamic, inviting, growing church participating in God s mission for the sake of the world. Seeking to translate this into action means 1) Understanding and adapting to the changing needs within our congregation, our community, our Lutheran Church, and our place in the world, 2) Building on our existing ministries and strengths as a congregation, and 3) Developing relationships and partnering with others locally, through the synod, the ELCA, and other faith-based groups to help and love one another in His name. What are your gifts and resources for fulfilling this purpose? What are the congregation s or organization's top three assets and how are they being used? Are there obstacles that must be overcome to be able to use these gifts and accomplish the mission? TVLC is blessed with many gifts. First, we have a strong, ELCA faith-based Lutheran congregation that is compassionate, and open and inviting to new members and ideas. We are well positioned in a progressive, multi-cultural, inclusive and tolerant community with many needs. Second, we have great staff, large and upgraded facilities, and many well developed and active programs and ministries that make a real difference in our community. Third, despite several significant challenges in the past (a major split in 2009 over the ELCA statement on human sexuality with the lead pastor and one third of the congregation leaving; a recent abrupt resignation of the lead pastor for leadership style differences and personal reasons), the congregation has shown tremendous resilience while maintaining energy and exhibiting great hope and a positive attitude for the future. Fourth, we welcome all people of God, regardless of race, sexual orientation, or faith background. We include all children of our creator God with dignity and respect. TVLC membership continues to grow in number, giving, faith, and ministries. Our mission focus remains on adapting to the changes around us and growing organizationally with inclusive leadership beyond one lead pastor. In light of the way you have described your ministry context in this Ministry Site Profile, what are the top three mission priorities which, if accomplished, hold the most promise for the continued development of this ministry? 1. Given the modest growth expected in our surrounding community, we must work to continue to be a visible, inviting, and welcoming faith community in our neighborhood, especially to visitors and families. 2. Due to the economic times and lack of funding for social services in southern Arizona, we need to continue supporting and expanding our outreach ministries. We abundantly support drives for food, supplies, and services for the needy, homebound, refugees and indigent. 3. Building more relationships and a broader, active fellowship program will be key to growth and more outreach success. This will also include better utilizing our remarkable facilities, our tremendously dedicated and skilled staff and congregants, and developing broader, inclusive leadership base across all areas. References Synodical Bishop Rev. Lowell G. Almen Grand Canyon Synod lalmen@gcsyond.org NAME SYNOD E-MAIL (847) 863-8041 (602) 956-8104 DAY PHONE EVENING PHONE CELL FAX Inside Congregation or organization 2/21/2018 5:03:40 PM Page 6 of 12
Jim Marian Member and past council president jbmarian2@gmail.com NAME ORGANIZATION AND TITLE E-MAIL (520) 749-1606 (520) 300-5847 DAY PHONE EVENING PHONE CELL FAX Outside Congregation or organization Neal Lundahl Former member and Council Treasurer neal-jan@cox.net NAME ORGANIZATION AND TITLE E-MAIL (480) 275-8685 (480) 275-8685 (480) 387-4739 DAY PHONE EVENING PHONE CELL FAX Member of the ELCA Clergy roster Rev. John D. Kautz, retired Tanque Verde Lutheran Church member JDLKautz@gmail.com NAME ORGANIZATION AND TITLE E-MAIL (623) 680-4673 (623) 680-4673 (623) 680-4673 DAY PHONE EVENING PHONE CELL FAX Anyone else who knows your setting well Tracy Jordan Member and on Council jordanmickle05@gmail.com NAME SYNOD E-MAIL (520) 440-1125 (520) 440-1125 (520) 440-1125 DAY PHONE EVENING PHONE CELL FAX PART III: LEADERSHIP NEEDS The Leader we Seek Roster Type: Minister of Word and Sacrament Minister of Word and Service In Candidacy/First Call Senior Pastor / Head of Staff Master's Degree (seminary or graduate school) Full time call POSITION TYPE: MINIMUM DEGREE REQUIRED: FULL TIME/PART TIME: Language Proficiencies English/Fluent PRIMARY LANGUAGE (PROFICIENCY) SECOND LANGUAGE (PROFICIENCY) THIRD LANGUAGE (PROFICIENCY) Experience: 0-3 years 4-9 years 10-15 years 16-20 years 21 + years Top Five Ministry Tasks 2/21/2018 5:03:40 PM Page 7 of 12
The five most critical tasks required in this position. Administration Building a Sense of Community Campus / Young Adult Ministry Chaplaincy Children's Ministry Christian Education Communications/ Media Community Organizing Conflict Management Counseling/ Social Work Early Childhood Administration Ecumenical Work Evangelism/ Mission Financial Management Global Service Innovation / Creativity Interim Ministry Interpret Theology Inter-personal Climate Ministry in Crisis Ministry in Daily Life Ministry with Seniors Multicultural Ministry Music / Worship / Arts Outdoor/ Camping Ministry Parish Nurse / Health Participant in the Larger Church Pastoral Care and Visitation Preaching / Worship Public Policy / Advocacy Recruit and Equip Leaders Self Care / Family Life Small Group Ministry Social Ministry Spiritual Formation / Direction Stewardship Strategic Mission Planning Teaching Volunteer Coordination Youth and Family Ministry Gifts for Ministry The five gifts essential in this position, and the five that are very helpful in this position. Top Priority Help people develop their spiritual life. Help people understand and act upon issues of social justice. Provide care and nurture. Be active in visitation of members and non-members. Be effective in working with children. Build a sense of community among the people with whom he/she works. Help others develop their leadership abilities and skills for ministry. Be an effective administrator. Be an effective communicator. Be an effective teacher. Encourage support of the Church's wider mission. Work regularly in the development of stewardship growth. Be active in ecumenical relationships. Be effective in working with youth. Organize people for community action. Be skilled in planning and leading programs. Have a strong commitment and loyalty to the Lutheran Church. Very Helpful 2/21/2018 5:03:40 PM Page 8 of 12
Understand and interpret the mission of the Church from a global perspective. Deal effectively with conflict. Bring joy and good humor to relationships. Be able to share leadership and work in a team. Be creative and innovative about his or her tasks. Be able to use technology and media. Appreciate cultural diversity in language and customs. Have talents in the areas of music, arts and writing. Mutual Expectations Please list the five primary areas of activity or focus that you wish your newly-called rostered leader to give special attention to during the first year of his or her ministry at this congregation or organization: A. Being a strong preacher, teacher, and spiritual leader. B. Build a faith community where members and staff are comfortable working together with joy in the spirit. C. Provide opportunities for spiritual growth as well as relationship building opportunities of the members. D. Provide leadership for developing a strategic plan and leading us in growing our church in programs and members E. Continue building programs for children and youth. Please list the five ways that this congregation / organization will support and encourage the rostered leader during the first year in order to help her or him accomplish these responsibilities: A. Members will commit to attending worship, participating in groups and activities, and serving in ministries. B. The congregation will support the Pastors and their families with prayers and affirmation. C. The congregation will work together to move forward and be open to new ideas and change. D. The congregation will be mindful of the need for faithful stewardship. E. The congregation will actively take part in leadership including development of a long-range plan. Compensation No PARSONAGE SOCIAL SECURITY TAX OFFSET Synod Guidelines MAXIMUM AMOUNT AVAILABLE FOR DEFINED COMPENSATION Benefits 4 weeks PENSION MEDICAL VACATION WEEKS No SABBATICAL POLICY No PARENTAL LEAVE POLICY ARE BACKGROUND CHECKS REQUIRED 2/21/2018 5:03:40 PM Page 9 of 12
Professional Expenses AUTO / TRAVEL REIMBURSEMENT No FIRST CALL THEOLOGICAL EDUCATION PROFESSIONAL EXPENSES ACCOUNT CONTINUING EDUCATION Comments: Please offer any comment or explanation regarding the compensation package, especially as it compares to synodical recommendations or guidelines. Based on the 2018 budget, the available compensation package can meet synod guidelines for pastors. Portico benefits are available. The Gold plan for medical/dental has been offered. Its cost is difficult to determine since it is dependent on age and family status. Other Supporting Resources Are you able to supply the following items, if requested? Mission and Vision statement of the congregation or organization Printed history of the congregation or organization Strategic Plan: Goals and Objectives Budget Annual Report Position description: Duties and Responsibilities Communications Piece (publicity, newsletter, etc.) No No 2/21/2018 5:03:40 PM Page 10 of 12
PART IV: COMMENTARY You are encouraged to offer information or commentary that will help the reader appreciate the vision, opportunities, challenges and nature of your ministry site. Use this opportunity to creatively promote and commend your ministry possibilities. Tanque Verde Lutheran Church is a vibrant, welcoming community of people who faithfully witness day in and day out through our words and actions. Even in this time of transition, we believe the best time is here and ahead of us! Reaching across the globe, we sent a team to Haiti to serve at Village of Hope, where education and health care are provided to impoverished Haitians. We raised more than $5,500 for ELCA World Hunger on average annually to support projects and programs to get at the root causes of hunger in 56 countries. In our own community, we provide Weekend Blessing bags food for the weekend to 100 students whose families qualify for free or discounted lunches. Through our partners, Lutheran Social Services of the Southwest and Interfaith Community Services, we provide services to refugees, seniors, and families in financial crisis. On our campus, we offer inspirational worship and Sunday School. In the summer, we provide Vacation Bible School, with half of the students coming from the community. We provide Confirmation and youth programs. We offer access to Bible camps and sent 29 youth and adults to the ELCA Youth Gathering in Detroit. We have a highly valued resource in our preschool and kindergarten which has been in operation for over 35 years and serves about 120 children aged 2-5. We provide opportunities for adults to fellowship, study, and serve God with their hands and minds and voices using all their gifts. As an example, one of our new ministries is a Risk Management committee of experts that cares for our campus safety and security. We are a growing congregation. Our membership and attendance are increasing. Since 2011, our General Fund budget has increased 30%. In addition, we are in the midst of a one-half million dollar capital campaign to renew our campus. We have a great staff, a valued associate pastor, and members who are looking forward to welcoming their next lead pastor. Our congregation has an unwavering faith in serving God through time and transitions. It s our road map to the future. God s Work. Our Hands. Alleluia! PART V: COMPLETION OF PROFILE Discernment Process and Adoption Please describe the process used to gather information, formulate responses, and officially adopt this Ministry Site Profile. (Approximately 100 words maximum). The Congregation Council under the leadership of the President coordinate a draft of the MSP. Previous MSPs, council documents, and data were gathered. Input was requested from the council, other lay leaders, staff, and the congregation. The draft was formulated and sent to council for review and approval on 1/19/18. Enter the date on which this Ministry Site Profile was adopted by vote of the Congregation Council or organization's board: 1/19/2018 CALL PROCESS ADMINISTRATOR The name of the person on the synod staff that the bishop has designated as the Call Process Administrator for this call process. Kim Stevens NAME Assistant to the Bishop for Administration TITLE (602) 957-3223 kstevens@gcsynod.org OFFICE PHONE E-MAIL Reference's Recommendation 2/21/2018 5:03:40 PM Page 11 of 12
Pastor Gayle Bintliff, retired NAME glbintliff@hotmail.com E-MAIL (612) 741-9081 DAY PHONE EVENING PHONE (612) 741-9081 CELL FAX 2/21/2018 5:03:40 PM Page 12 of 12