Assembly Notebook 2016

Transcription

Name :
Twenty Ninth Annual
Pacifica Synod Assembly
Congregation:
May 4 - 7, 2016
Irvine Marriott
2016 Pacifica Synod
Pre-Assembly Notebook
Table of Contents
Introduction ............................................................................................................. 1 - 3
Voting Member Guide ............................................................................................. 1 - 4
Churches by Conference ......................................................................................... 1 - 8
Hotel Meeting Space ............................................................................................... 1 - 10
Agenda...................................................................................................................... 2 - 1
Opening/Closing Dialogue ....................................................................................... 2 - 3
Assembly Participants .............................................................................................. 2 - 5
Speakers ................................................................................................................... 2 - 6
Assembly Rules and Procedures ............................................................................. 2 - 8
Roster Changes ........................................................................................................ 2 - 12
Financials .................................................................................................................. 3 - 1
Nominations for Synod Council............................................................................... 4 – 1
Reports ..................................................................................................................... 5 - 1
Resolutions ............................................................................................................... 6 - 1
Hearings.................................................................................................................... 7 - 1
Workshops ............................................................................................................... 7 - 2
Conference Meetings .............................................................................................. 7 – 7
Bishop Election ........................................................................................................ 8 - 1
Pacifica Synod – ELCA, 1801 C Parkcourt Place, Santa Ana CA 92701, (714) 692-2791
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TO:
PACIFICA SYNOD VOTING MEMBERS
FROM:
2016 ASSEMBLY PLANNING TEAM
SUBJECT:
TWENTY-NINTH ANNUAL ASSEMBLY
May 5-7, 2016, Irvine Marriott
18000 Von Karman AvenueIrvine, California949.553.0100
Pre-Assembly Report for the
Twenty-Ninth Annual Pacifica Synod Assembly
To help you prepare for the experience of a synod assembly and introduce you to this year's business
items and program content, please read carefully through all these materials. This report contains most
of the official documents to be used for the assembly. Print what you need or, better yet, download the
PDF files to your tablet or laptop. Bring this pre-assembly report with you to the
assembly.
Voting materials, nametags and meal tickets will be
distributed at registration booth located in the foyer of the
Irvine Marriott. Assembly registration will begin at 10 a.m.
on Thursday, May 5. Check the agenda on page 2-1 for
events each day.
Presiding Bishop Elizabeth Eaton will begin the
explanation of the bishop election process at 2 p.m.
Check-in and registration for the First Ballot for Bishop
will close at 2:30 p.m.
In the years when a bishop is elected, credentials—that is,
whether persons are attending the assembly as voting
members or visitors—are given additional care. In order to
check credentials prior to the First Ballot for Bishop, checkin and registration will close at 2:30 p.m. on Thursday, May
5, and will not reopen until after the first ballot is collected.
If you are a voting member who arrives during that time, you will not be able to vote on the First Ballot
for Bishop. We will be unable to grant exceptions for late arrivals. While we expect most voting
members will check in on Thursday morning, registration will be closed for 30 minutes prior to every
bishop election ballot so that credentials can be verified.
Because the assembly is a legislative meeting, the tables on the floor are designated for Voting
Members.
A voting member must be seated at one of these tables to speak at the microphone,
receive a ballot and be counted in a quorum or division of the house. Non-voting members of the
assembly are to be seated in the designated Visitor tables at the rear of the assembly hall.
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The official hotel check in time of the Irvine Marriott is 4 p.m., so it is possible that your room may not
be ready when you arrive. In that event, you may store your luggage at the bell desk. Since checkout
time is 12 p.m. on Saturday you may wish to check out before the morning session begins. Once again,
you may store your luggage at the bell desk. The business of the assembly is expected to conclude by
12:30 p.m. Internet access in guest rooms is discounted to $6.95 per day, but complimentary for Marriott
Rewards members. Use of the hotel’s fitness center is complimentary. Discounted cost of daily selfparking is $12 per day.
Casual dress is encouraged throughout the assembly. Remember to bring your NRSV Bible (or another
version if you prefer), a sweater/jacket for the meeting room, and this Pre-Assembly Report. An offering
will be gathered at the assembly worship services with proceeds going to the Global Mission
Engagement Fund and the Robert L. Miller Scholarship Fund. Please make offering checks payable to
the Pacifica Synod and include “Assembly Offering” in the memo.
In the event of an emergency while at the assembly dial 911, then contact hotel personnel and synod
staff immediately.
Voting Member Guide
What is a Synod Assembly?
Just as a congregation has an annual meeting, so each year the synod has an annual meeting when
representatives from all the congregations of the synod come together to form the Voting Membership
of a Synod Assembly. The purpose of the assembly is to hear reports of work done over the past year on
our collective behalf, to elect people to serve in synod and churchwide leadership capacities, to
deliberate issues, and to consider and approve a synod budget.
Who attends a Synod Assembly?
The voting membership of the assembly includes laypersons from each congregation, clergy, associates
in ministry, diaconal ministers under call in this synod, a 10% representation of the retired on the synod
roster, and the Synod Council. As constituted, at least 60% of the voting members of the assembly are
laypersons.
Other assembly participants include representatives from the ELCA churchwide offices, synod staff,
representatives from the synod program units and related agencies and institutions, special guests and
visitors.
Assembly Vocabulary
The words "assembly" and "voting members," rather than convention and delegates, were chosen
deliberately to reflect the understanding of the church that members gather in worship, carry out service
and assemble occasionally for governance decisions and elections. Assembly participants do not come
from a given caucus as politicized delegates to a party convention; rather they assemble as duly selected
members of this church with voting responsibilities.
Assembly Program
Interspersed with the business, an assembly program committee plans opportunities for assembly
participants to be inspired, grow in understanding and experience a deepening of faith. These
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opportunities come in the forms of worship, speakers, discussion, workshops, forums, service projects
and fellowship.
Assembly Participation
Become a full participant in the Synod Assembly. Attend business sessions, hearings and workshops,
join in worship and share in discussions. Meet new people and renew old acquaintances. You will be
blessed and others will be blessed by your presence.
May the assembly experience strengthen your faith and broaden your understanding; and may it further
equip and encourage you as a witness to the gospel and servant of the Lord.
Orientation
Participation
The Synod Assembly is the highest legislative body of the synod. As a voting member of the assembly,
you play an important role in making decisions that shape and affect our ministry together. Participation
in all of the assembly—plenary sessions, forums and workshops—can help you to consider difficult
issues.
Study Materials
 This Assembly Notebook is prepared for registered assembly participants. It contains the official
assembly documents. Voting Members are asked to read and review these materials before the
assembly begins.
 Bylaw and constitution changes, resolutions and legislative matters are important items of
business.
 Robert's Rules of Order govern parliamentary procedures at the assembly.
Attend Plenary Sessions
Plenary (business) sessions are sometimes prolonged. Important decisions, however, often come near the
end of a session. Therefore, it is important for all Voting Members to attend every business session and
stay until a session is recessed or adjourned.
Participate in Other Opportunities
Along with the business of the synod, the assembly also provides participants with other unique
experiences:
Worship—In addition to gathering for two formal worship services, the assembly also begins each
business session with music and Bible study to worship and glorify God.
Knowledge and Growth—Reports, presentations, workshops, forums and displays offer opportunities to:
 Gain new or broader understanding of the mission and ministry for the whole church.
 Grow in faith, be renewed in spirit and refreshed for service.
Community-Building—Organized fellowship opportunities, meal times and interaction with assembly
participants from other parts of the church help to build community and strengthen the Body—
the Church.
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Procedures for Conducting Business
Voting Members, and only Voting Members, are to be seated at tables designated "Voting Member."
You must sit at a "Voting Member" table in order to vote or to be counted in a quorum.
Floor microphones are placed on the assembly floor at strategic locations. Voting Members and VoiceOnly Members are allowed to speak on the assembly floor. To do so you must:
1) Approach the microphone nearest your table.
2) Wait to be recognized by the Chair (usually the Bishop).
3) State your name and congregation, organization, or capacity, which entitles you to speak.
If you wish to make a motion or amendment to a motion (other than one of a procedural nature), you
must first give a written copy to the Secretary. Forms for making a motion or amendment to a motion
are available at the Secretary’s Table.
What Can Be Done with a Motion?
You may debate an issue which has been properly placed before the assembly. The maker of a motion is
entitled to speak first.
Form of Making Motions by Voting Members
MAIN MOTION
I move
I move the adoption of this report
I wish to present the following resolution __________ I move its adoption
I move the adoption of the proposition in the letter read
POSTPONE INDEFINITELY
I move to postpone this matter indefinitely
AMEND
I move to amend the motion by inserting __________ between __________ and __________
I move to amend the motion by adding __________ after __________
I move to amend the motion by striking out __________
I move to amend the motion by striking out __________ and inserting __________
I move to amend by striking out the motion and substituting this motion (read or state substitute motion)
COMMIT or RE-COMMIT
I move that this matter be referred to a committee of __________ to be named by __________ with
instruction __________
POSTPONE TO A SET TIME
I move that this matter be postponed to __________
I move that this matter be postponed to __________ meeting at (name time) and be made A Special
Order of Business (2/3 vote required)
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PREVIOUS QUESTION
I call for (or move) the previous question (2/3 vote)
TABLE
I move that this matter be laid on the table (no debate)
TAKE FROM THE TABLE
I move that the motion __________ be taken from the table (no debate—motion made when no business
is pending)
APPEAL
I appeal from the decision of the Chair (in order only after the chair has made a decision or ruling)
OBJECTION TO CONSIDERATION OF A QUESTION
I object to the consideration of this question (2/3 vote)
SUSPEND THE RULES
I move that we suspend the rules for the purpose of __________
WITHDRAW A MOTION
I ask leave to withdraw my motion (no second required—only maker of motion may ask leave)
QUESTION OF PRIVILEGE (Personal or General Privilege)
I rise to a question of privilege (state your question)
I rise to a parliamentary inquiry (state your inquiry)
I rise to a point of order (state your point)
ORDERS OF THE DAY
I move we return to the orders of the day
READING PAPERS
I move that the paper be read or re-read
TO FIX THE TIME TO WHICH TO ADJOURN
I move that when we adjourn, we adjourn to meet __________
ADJOURN
I move that we adjourn (no debate)
RESCIND
I move to rescind the action taken, which was __________ (2/3 vote)
I give notice that I shall move to rescind __________ (no second required at the next meeting—at the
next meeting, offer the Motion to Rescind)
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PACIFICA SYNOD CHURCHES & MINISTRIES BY CONFERENCE
† Synodically Authorized Worshiping Community
†† Congregation Under Development
#1 Sonshine Conference
Dean: The Rev. Dan Roschke
Chula Vista, Glory
Chula Vista, St. Mark
El Cajon, The Welcome Church †
El Cajon, St. John
Lemon Grove, Lemon Grove
#2 West San Diego Conference
Dean: The Rev. Karen Marohn
Coronado, Resurrection
San Diego, All Saints
San Diego, Ascension
San Diego, Atonement
San Diego, Christ
San Diego, Clairemont Iglesia Luterana Clairemont
San Diego, First
#3 Harvest Conference
Dean: The Rev. Karla Seyb-Stockton
Carlsbad, Spirit Harbor †
Encinitas, Bethlehem
Escondido, House of Prayer
Oceanside, King of Kings
Poway, Incarnation
#4 Raincross Conference
Dean: The Rev. Brian Foxworth
Claremont, Good Shepherd
Chino, Christ
Corona, Peace
Hemet, Spirit of Joy
Hemet, Trinity
Lake Elsinore, Shepherd of Life
Moreno Valley, Lord of Life
Norco, Bethany
Norco, HKBP California (Batak)
Lay Leader: Sue Connors
La Mesa, Shepherd of the Valley
San Diego, Calvary
San Diego, Hope
San Diego, Oromo Ethiopian Luth. Ministry ††
Santee, Carlton Hills
Lay Leader: Angela Jackson
San Diego, Gethsemane
San Diego, Our Savior Nuestro Salvador
San Diego, St. Andrew
San Diego, St. Peter’s by the Sea
San Diego, Taiwanese
San Diego, Tierrasanta
Ramona, Spirit of Joy
San Marcos, San Marcos
Solana Beach, Calvary
Vista, First Primera Iglesia
Lay Leader: Greg Shepherd
Ontario, First
Ontario, Prince of Peace
Riverside, Eden
Riverside, Grace of Glen Avon
Riverside, Hope
Riverside, Trinity
Sun City, Faith
Temecula, Hope
Upland, Grace
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#5 Big Bear Conference
Dean: The Rev. Jay Egenes
Banning, Our Savior
Barstow, Shepherd of the Desert
Big Bear City, Spirit of Peace
Fontana, Gloria Dei
Joshua Tree, Faith
Palm Desert, Hope
Palm Desert, St. John
Rancho Cucamonga, Cross & Crown
#7 Saddleback Conference
Dean: The Rev. Jeff Frohner
Corona del Mar, Church of the Master
Dana Point, Gloria Dei
Laguna Niguel, Mission
Newport Beach, Newport Harbor
Redlands, First
Rialto, Church of the Cross
San Bernardino, Central City Lutheran Mission †
San Bernardino, Spirit of Hope (Est. Highland Ave.)
San Bernardino, Our Savior
29 Palms, Immanuel Prince of Peace
Victorville, Trinity
Yucaipa, Faith
Rancho Santa Margarita, Community
San Clemente, Christ
San Clemente, Our Savior
#8 Son & Surf Conference
Dean: The Rev. Brian Taylor
Cypress, Mt. Calvary
Fountain Valley, King of Glory
Garden Grove, Our Redeemer
Garden Grove, St. Olaf
Huntington Beach, Resurrection
Los Alamitos, Bethlehem
Lay Leader: Bob Dickson
Orange, Christ
Orange, Our Saviour
Santa Ana, Calvary
Santa Ana, St. Peter San Pedro
Santa Ana, The Table ††
Seal Beach, Redeemer
#9 Rejoice Conference
Dean: The Rev. Tom Goellrich
Anaheim, Faith
Anaheim, Grace
Anaheim, Grace Taiwanese
Anaheim, Lamb of God
Anaheim, Church of Dream Builders ††
Buena Park, Good Shepherd
Fullerton, First
Fullerton, St. Luke
Fullerton, St. Paul
Fullerton, Thai House Church †
La Habra, Church of the Master
La Habra, Emanuel
Whittier, Salem
Whittier, St. Andrew
Whittier, Shepherd of the Hills
Whittier, Thai Lutheran Ministry ††
Yorba Linda, Emanuel Danish
Yorba Linda, Messiah
#10 Hukilau Conference
Dean: The Rev. Ruth Peterson
Honolulu, Calvary by the Sea
Kihei, Kihei
Honolulu, Lutheran Church of Honolulu
Lihue, Lihue
Honolulu, Prince of Peace
Mililani, Christ
Kailua, St. John
Pearl City, Joy of Christ
Kailua-Kona, Luth. Church of the Holy Trinity
Waianae, Maluhia
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Twenty-Ninth Annual
Synod Assembly
Pacifica Synod – ELCA
Irvine Marriott
WEDNESDAY, MAY 4, 2016
9:30 a.m.
1:00 p.m.
6:30 p.m.
Executive Committee
Synod Council Meeting
Staff Dinner
THURSDAY, MAY 5, 2016
9:30 a.m.
10:00 a.m.
Registration Opens
Hearings
Budget Hearing
Resolutions Hearing
Registration Booth
Berkeley
Anaheim
12:45 p.m. Gathering Music
Grand Ballroom
BUSINESS MEETING 1
1:00 p.m. Opening of the Assembly (Page 2 - 3)
Bible Study—the Rev. Dr. Shauna Hannan
Nominating Committee Reports
Treasurer’s Report
Introductions
2:00 p.m. Bishop Election Process—Presiding Bishop Elizabeth Eaton
Credentials Report
Bishop Election First Ballot
3:15 p.m. Report of the Bishop—the Rev. Murray D. Finck
Resolutions
Anniversary recognition
Report of the First Ballot
5:00 p.m. Dinner on your own
BUSINESS MEETING 2
7:00 p.m. Credentials Report
Bishop Election Second Ballot
Synod Business
Recognition of Outstanding Lay Ministry
7:45 p.m. ELCA Report—Presiding Bishop Elizabeth Eaton
Report of the Second Ballot
Evening Devotions
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FRIDAY, MAY 6, 2016
6:30 a.m.
Stretch & Pray—Bishop Murray Finck
8:20 a.m. Gathering Music
BUSINESS MEETING 3
8:35 a.m. Bible Study—the Rev. Shauna Hannan
9:05 a.m. Question & Answer of Bishop Candidates
Credentials Report
Bishop Election Third Ballot
Synod Council Elections
Budget
Catalina
Grand Ballroom
11:00 a.m. Worship—Presiding Bishop Elizabeth Eaton, preaching
12:15 p.m. Report of the Third Ballot
Pick up Box Lunches
Ballroom Foyer
1:20 p.m. Bishop Candidates 5-Minute Presentations
Credentials Report
Bishop Election Fourth Ballot
2:00 p.m. Workshops (locations on Page 7 – 3)
3:15 p.m. Report of the Fourth Ballot
Credentials Report
Bishop Election Fifth Ballot
Synod Business
Report of the Fifth Ballot
6:15 p.m.
7:00 p.m.
Celebration Dinner
Reception
Dinner
Ballroom Foyer
Grand Ballroom
SATURDAY, MAY 7, 2016
6:30 a.m.
Stretch and Pray—Bishop Murray Finck
8:25 a.m. Gathering Music
BUSINESS MEETING 4
8:30 a.m. Bible Study—the Rev. Shauna Hannan
Credentials Report
Synod Council Election Results
Conference Break-outs (locations on Page 7 – 9)
10:30 a.m.
Closing Worship—Bishop Murray Finck, preaching
Close of Assembly
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Catalina
Grand Ballroom
Evangelical Lutheran Worship
Opening of a Synod or Churchwide Assembly
L:
C:
As in one body we have many members,
so we, who are many, are one body in Christ.
L:
C:
Where two or three are gathered in my name, says the Lord,
I am there among them.
L:
Live a life worthy of the calling to which you have been called,
with all humility and gentleness,
making every effort to maintain the unity of the Spirit
in the bond of peace.
Let us pursue what makes for justice and peace,
and for mutual upbuilding.
C:
L:
C:
The Lord be with you.
And also with you.
L:
Let us pray.
O God, you open the hearts of your faithful people
by sending into us your Holy Spirit.
Direct us by the light of that Spirit,
that we may have a right judgment in all things
and rejoice at all times in your peace,
through Jesus Christ, your Son and our Lord,
who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit,
one God, now and forever.
Amen.
C:
L:
C:
I declare this Twenty-Ninth assembly to be in session
in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit.
Amen.
From Sundays and Seasons.com. Copyright 2012 Augsburg Fortress. All rights reserved.
Reprinted by permission under Augsburg Fortress Liturgies Annual License #24165.
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Evangelical Lutheran Worship
Closing of a Synod or Churchwide Assembly
L:
C:
Jesus said, You will be my witnesses
to the ends of the earth.
L:
C:
I chose you and appointed you
to bear fruit that will last.
L:
C:
Remember, I will be with you always,
to the end of time.
L:
C:
The Lord be with you.
And also with you.
L:
Let us pray.
Direct us, Lord God, in all our doings with your most gracious favor,
and extend to us your continual help;
that in all our works begun, continued, and ended in you,
we may glorify your holy name;
and finally, by your mercy, bring us to everlasting life;
through Jesus Christ, our Savior and Lord.
Amen.
C:
L:
C:
L:
O God, our beginning and our end,
you kept Abraham and Sarah in safety throughout the days of their pilgrimage,
you led the children of Israel through the midst of the sea,
and by a star you led the magi to the infant Jesus.
Protect and guide us now as we set out to travel.
Make our ways safe and our homecomings joyful,
and bring us at last to our heavenly home,
where you dwell in glory with our Lord Jesus Christ
and the life-giving Holy Spirit,
one God, now and forever.
Amen.
C:
I declare this assembly closed
in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit.
Amen.
L:
C:
Go in peace. Share the good news.
Thanks be to God.
From Sundays and Seasons.com. Copyright 2012 Augsburg Fortress. All rights reserved.
Reprinted by permission under Augsburg Fortress Liturgies Annual License #24165.
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ASSEMBLY PARTICIPANTS
CHAIR ..........................................................
Bishop Murray D. Finck
PARLIAMENTARIAN ................................
Ms. Pauline Getz
SECRETARY ................................................
Ms. Rachel Line
ASSEMBLY PLANNING TEAM ................
The Rev. Carl Zimmermann, Co-Chair
Ms. April Sharp, Co-Chair
Ms. Helga Bergthold, Assembly Manager
The Rev. Brad Steinstra
The Rev. Tim Philips
Ms. Vicki Higgins
Ms. Sandy Poteet
Mr. Glen Travers
Ms. Fumi Liang
Ms. Cheryl Tonic
Ms. Terri Robertson
AUDIO/VISUAL ASSISTANT ....................
Mr. Dale Feine
CELEBRATION DINNER PLANNING ......
Mr. Jerry Englehardt, Co-Chair
Ms. Sheila Wenzel, Co-Chair
The Rev. Scottie Lloyd
The Rev. Wilk Miller
The Rev. Bob Mooney
The Rev. Keith Wolter
CREDENTIALS ...........................................
Ms. Terri Robertson
EMERGENCY PROCEDURES....................
Ms. Vicki Higgins
HOSPITALITY VOLUNTEER COORDINATORS
........................................................................
Ms. Fumi Liang
Ms Cheryl Tonic
LOGO ............................................................
Ms. April Sharp
NOMINATING COMMITTEE .....................
The Rev. Scottie Lloyd, Chair
Ms. Meri Jo Petrivelli
The Rev. Jay Egenes
REGISTRATION COORDINATORS ..........
Ms. Terri Robertson
Ms. Sandy Poteet
Mr. Glenn Travers
RESOLUTIONS COMMITTEE ..................
The Rev. Brian Taylor, Chair
The Rev. Jay Egenes
Ms. Sheila Wenzel
SYNOD COUNCIL ELECTIONS ...............
The Rev. Brian Taylor
Ms. Elsie Tiede
WORSHIP .....................................................
The Rev. Terry Tuvey Allen
The Rev. Becca Ajer
The Rev. Matt Anderson
The Rev. Jay Egenes
Ms. Dianne Finnecy
Ms. Mary Shaima
The Assembly planning team thanks all of the many volunteers who make this event possible.
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ELCA CHURCHWIDE REPRESENTATIVE
The Rev. Elizabeth Eaton
The Rev. Elizabeth A. Eaton was elected as the ELCA’s
fourth presiding bishop at the 2013 ELCA Churchwide
Assembly.
Born in Cleveland on April 2, 1955, Eaton earned a
Master of Divinity degree from Harvard Divinity School
in Cambridge, Mass., and a Bachelor of Arts degree in
music education from the College of Wooster in
Wooster, Ohio.
Ordained June 4, 1981, Eaton served as assistant
pastor of All Saints Lutheran Church in Worthington,
Ohio; interim pastor of Good Hope Lutheran Church in Boardman, Ohio; and pastor of Messiah
Lutheran Church in Ashtabula, Ohio. She was elected bishop of the ELCA Northeastern Ohio Synod
in 2006 and re-elected in May 2013.
Eaton is involved in a number of boards and committees. She is a board member of Trinity Lutheran
Seminary and Capital University, both based in Columbus, Ohio. She is a member of the Lutheran
Episcopal Coordinating Committee and the ELCA Conference of Bishops Executive Committee. She
also serves on the Conference of Bishops Domestic Ready Bench and serves in roles with the ELCA
Malaria Campaign, the Lutheran Metropolitan Ministry, PORTICO Philosophy of Benefits Task
Force, Ohio Council of Churches and Lutheran Planned Giving in Ohio.
Prior to her election, Eaton was the liaison bishop to the ELCA Church Council and a member of the
ELCA Memorials Committee for the 2007, 2011 and 2013 ELCA Churchwide Assemblies. She
served as a delegate to The Lutheran World Federation Assembly in Budapest in 1984, on the
review team for Lutheran Episcopal dialogues in 1982, and she was a part of the delegation from the
ELCA’s predecessor church bodies to the German Democratic Republic in 1982.
Eaton’s husband, the Rev. T. Conrad Selnick, an Episcopal priest, is pastor of St. Christopher’s-bythe-River in Gates Mills, Ohio. They are parents of two adult children, Rebeckah and Susannah.
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BIBLE STUDY LEADER
The Rev. Dr. Shauna Kay Hannan
Associate Professor of Homiletics, Pacific Lutheran Theological
Seminary (of California Lutheran University) and Core Doctoral
Faculty (Graduate Theological Union).
Dr. Hannan uses multiple pedagogies and is a master at
involving students in the teaching-learning process. Her teaching
and mentoring of students demonstrates the depth of her
vocational call to the formation of candidates for Christian
ministry and public leadership in the Church. Her current
research and writing projects are: the connection between the
arts (e.g., film, theatre, music, photography, short story fiction) and the craft of preaching, narrative
medicine, and Latin-American homiletical pedagogy.
Professional History

Associate Professor of Homiletics, PLTS (2014-)

Core Doctoral Faculty, GTU (2015-)

Assistant/Associate Professor of Homiletics, Lutheran Theological Southern Seminary (20082014)

Teaching Fellow in Preaching and Speech, Princeton Theological Seminary (2005-2008)

Associate Director of Admissions, Luther Seminary (2002-2004)

Associate Pastor, Lutheran Church of the Good Shepherd, Moorhead, MN (1998-2002)

Special Service

ELCA Multi-Synodical Candidacy Committee Member

PLTS Academic Committee

PLTS Ethics and Old Testament and New Testament Faculty Search Committee

Member of the Academy of Homiletics

Member of the Society for Biblical Literature

Chair of the ELCA Association of Teaching Theologians

Member of the ELCA Theological Roundtable

Lutheran Thrivent Fellow
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Assembly Rules and Procedures
for the Pacifica Synod
of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America
LEGISLATIVE AUTHORITY
This Synod shall have a Synod Assembly, which shall be its highest legislative authority.
(S7.01)
MEETINGS
Regular meetings of the Synod Assembly shall be held annually, as scheduled by the
Synod Council, generally in the months of April, May, or June. (S7.11.01)
QUORUM
One-half of members of the Synod Assembly shall constitute a quorum. (S7.14)
AGENDA
The Chair shall have the authority, within the adopted agenda, to call items before the
Assembly in such an order as to ensure the orderly flow of business.
Any resolution presented after the 90-day deadline is to be submitted to the Secretary who
will immediately refer it to the Resolutions Committee. These resolutions can be
introduced at the Assembly if permitted by a two-thirds vote of the members.
All resolutions not voted on at the Assembly will be placed on the next Synod Council
meeting agenda for action.
All motions to come before the Assembly are to be in writing and submitted to the
Secretary.
A two-thirds vote of the Assembly shall be required to add new business to the Agenda.
VOTING MEMBERS
The membership of the Synod Assembly, of which at least 60% of the voting membership
shall be composed of laypersons, shall be constituted as follows:
a.
All ordained ministers, under call, on the roster of this synod in attendance at the
Synod Assembly shall be voting members.
b.
All associates in ministry, deaconesses of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in
America, and diaconal ministers, under call, on the official lay roster of this synod
shall have both voice and vote as lay voting members in the Synod Assembly, in
addition to the voting membership of lay members of congregations provided in
item *S7.21.c.
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c.
A minimum of one lay member elected by each congregation with fewer than 175
baptized members and a minimum of two lay members elected by each
congregation with 175 or more baptized members related to this synod, normally
one of whom shall be male and one of whom shall be female, shall be voting
members. The Synod Council shall establish a formula to provide additional lay
representation from congregations on the basis of number of baptized members in
the congregation. (*S21.c.) In addition to the lay voting members elected by each
congregation as stipulated in *S7.21.c, each congregation may provide additional
lay representation to a synod assembly by adding one lay voting member who is a
Youth or Young Adult … less than 30 years of age (S7.21.B13). Synodically
Authorized Worshipping Communities (SAWC) of the Pacifica Synod shall be
permitted to have one lay representative (S7.26). Licensed lay ministers in
recognized ethnic ministries of the synod are granted voice and vote at the
assembly, plus one additional layperson from the community may be elected as a
voting member. The Synod Council will review a list of the eligible
ministries/persons annually. (SC99.04.05) The Synod Council shall seek to ensure
that, as nearly as possible, 50 percent of the lay members of the assembly shall be
female and 50 percent shall be male.
d.
Voting membership shall include the officers of this synod. (S7.21)
e.
Ten percent (10%) of all retired ordained ministers, retired associates in ministry,
retired deaconesses, and retired diaconal ministers on the roster of this synod
shall have the right to serve as voting members of the Synod Assembly. The
selection of these retired ordained ministers to serve as voting members shall be
done in a process established by the Synod Council. (S7.22.b,c)
f.
Retired pastors on the roster of the Pacifica Synod serving congregations in an
interim position under a contract with the congregation and with the approval of the
synod, notwithstanding the provisions above (S7.22b), shall be voting members of
the Synod Assembly, consistent with †S7.21.c. (S7.22.A12)
g.
Duly elected voting members of the Synod Council who are not otherwise voting
members of the Synod Assembly under S7.21. shall be granted the privilege of
both voice and vote as members of the Synod Assembly. (S7.27)
h.
Rostered leaders with on leave from call or continuing disability status, in good
standing with this synod, may serve as voting members of the assembly.
VOICE ONLY
The Pacifica Synod of the ELCA grants seat and voice to the President of the Pacifica
Synodical Women’s Organization at Synod assemblies. (S7.21.A94)
All retired ordained ministers, associates in ministry and diaconal ministers, all of whose
names appear on the rosters of this synod, shall have the privilege of voice but not vote at
all meetings of the Synod Assembly. The bishop of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in
America and such other official representatives of this church as may be designated from
time to time by the Church Council shall also have voice but not vote in the meetings of the
2-9
Synod Assembly. Like privileges shall be accorded to those additional persons whom the
Synod Assembly or the Synod Council shall from time to time designate. (S7.23)
The youth that join the assembly from the Pacifica Synod Youth Team shall have seat and
voice in the assembly.
VOTING
Voting for Synod Council and Churchwide Assembly Voting Members shall be done by
ballot distributed in each Voting Member packet. When voting is declared open, ballots will
be collected by designated tellers after verifying Voting Member credentials. Only one
ballot is to be collected from each person.
Proxy and absentee voting shall not be permitted in the transaction of any business of this
synod. (S7.31)
NOMINATIONS
Nominations for all positions, whether offered by the Nominating Committee, or from the
floor, shall be valid only if prior to the nominations being closed, the Nominee has, either
directly or indirectly, indicated his/her willingness to serve if elected.
All nominations from the floor must be accompanied by a written nomination containing the
signatures of no less than 10 persons qualified to vote for the Nominee indicating their
support for the nomination and needs to be in compliance with gender, clergy/lay
representation requirements.
Nominations for all offices must be submitted to the Nominations Table located outside the
Pacifica Synod Office no later than 5 p.m. on Thursday, May 5. Those desiring to make
nominations are asked to get a Nominations Form from the Nominations Table, and, after
completing it, return it to the Nominations Table.
During the Assembly, if a resignation or withdrawal occurs, immediate reference shall be
made to the Nominating Committee, which will convene and suggest one or more
candidates for another election.
VOICE
No member may speak from the floor more than two minutes or more than twice on one
issue without consent of the Assembly.
ROBERT’S RULES OF ORDER
Robert’s Rules of Order, latest edition, shall govern parliamentary procedure of the Synod
Assembly. (S7.32)
APPROPRIATION OF FUNDS
Any proposal to appropriate funds, whether by amendment to the budget or otherwise,
which is presented to a meeting of the Synod Assembly without the prior approval of the
2 - 10
Synod Council, shall be immediately referred to the Synod Council for an opinion and
report prior to any debate or action by the Synod Assembly. (S10.04)
DISPLAYS AND EXHIBITS
Authorization for setting up displays and exhibits and for placing posters, announcements,
etc., at Assemblies of the Pacifica Synod shall be limited to those agencies or groups who
are approved by the Executive Committee. The selling of goods or services is not allowed
unless approved in advance by the Executive Committee.
DISPLAYS BY AFFILIATED AND NON-AFFILIATED ORGANIZATIONS
The Executive Committee of the Pacifica Synod has approved the following list of
organizations as ones that may display at the 2016 Synod Assembly.
Permission to display by non-affiliated organizations is granted by the Executive
Committee of the Synod Council and does not constitute any type of endorsement of these
groups. Under no circumstances may non-affiliated organizations be involved in direct
solicitation of funds at the assembly. Permission to display is granted on a year-by-year
basis.
Agape House SDSU
Lutheran Retreats, Camps & Conferences
Lutheran Social Services of So Cal and
Bethlehem Handicrafts
Central City Lutheran Mission
California Lutheran Homes
Mission Investment Fund ELCA
California Lutheran University – Pacific
Lutheran Theological Seminary
Nancy Bond Insurance Services
Christian Education Network of the ELCA
Portico Benefit Services
Coaching Ministry Team
Pacifica Women of the ELCA
ELCA Chaplains – Fund for Mission
Reconciling Works
ELCA Federal Credit Union
Pacifica Youth and Family Leadership
ELCA Foundation
Southern Cross Property Consultants
ILERT
Third Avenue Charitable Organization
Lutheran Office of Public Policy
Thrivent Financial
DISTRIBUTION OF MATERIALS
All materials for distribution to voting members at the Synod Assembly shall be in the
synod office no later than five working days prior to the opening of the assembly. After the
assembly is in session, permission to distribute materials must be secured from the on-site
synod office.
2 - 11
CHANGES TO SYNOD ROSTER SINCE LAST ASSEMBLY
PASTORS RECEIVED FROM OTHER SYNODS BY CALL TO:
Glen Egertson
06.04.2015
Lutheran Retreats, Camps and Conferences
Angela Denker
08.06.2015
Messiah, Yorba Linda
James Friedrich
08.17.2015
Retired
Derek Fossey
10.10.2015
Hope, Palm Desert
Kathryn Schlechter
11.25.2015
Atonement, San Diego
Terry Tuvey Allen
10.01.2015
Pacifica Synod Staff
David Barber
01.29.2016
Retired
Brian Oltman
03.12.2016
Resurrection, Coronado
RECEIVED BY ORDINATION AND CALL:
Jennifer Shaw
01.31.2016
TO:
St. John's, Palm Desert
NEW CALLS WITHIN SYNOD:
David Beard
Rich Ajer
Michael Schneider
Daren Erisman
Kathryn Zurcher
Anke Flohr
TO:
Interim, King of Kings, Oceanside
Cross & Crown, Rancho Cucamonga
Good Shepherd, Buena Park
House of Prayer, Escondido
St. John, Kailua
Pacific Health Ministry, Hawaii
PASTORS WHO RETIRED
Simon Lee
Paul Kirchner
Yutaka Kishino
05.01.2015
08.16.2015
12.15.2015
08.16.2015
02.14.2016
03.17.2016
11.01.2014
10.01.2015
12.01.2015
Mark Will
David Krueger
02.01.2015
10.01.2015
CURRENTLY ON LEAVE FROM CALL (as of March 21, 2015, Council Meeting)
Steve Awbrey
Richard Braun
Michael Hagenow
James Jerpseth
David Kieffer
Laura Line
Rafael Melendez
Carole Parmeter Dyer
Roger Patterson
Karen Perkins
Amber Remillard
Continuing Disability: Dianne Eller
PASTORS TRANSFERRED TO ANOTHER SYNOD
Christine Higueria-Street
08.06.2015
Rocky Mountain Synod
James West
11.16.2015
Rocky Mountain Synod
Heidi Hester
12.03.2015
Sierra Pacific Synod
Christina Johnsten
03.16.2016
Northeastern Pennsylvania Synod
DECEASED, RESIGNED OR REMOVED FROM THE ROSTER
Stephen Kung
05.27.2015
Removed
Emily Kung
05.27.2015
Removed
James Hallerberg
06.19.2015
Deceased
Kenneth Krueger
08.01.2015
Deceased
Jen Hao Lee
08.10.2015
Resigned
R. Kevin Kline
08.21.2015
Resigned
Donald Butenshon
10.17.2015
Deceased
Donald Scott Hewes
12.14.2015
Deceased
Michael Greenler
03.12.2016
Removed
2 - 12
as of April 4, 2016
APPROVED FOR CALL - ASSIGNED TO PACIFICA SYNOD
Steve Otte
Berhanu Refera
Spencer Steele
DIACONAL MINISTERS ROSTER
Melissa James
03.12.16
CURRENTLY ON LEAVE FROM CALL
Barbara Martyn
TO:
Agape House, San Diego State University
ASSOCIATES IN MINISTRY ROSTER
RECEIVED BY COMMISSIONING AND CALL:
Roberta Wall
08.23.2015
Leah Emerson
11.21.2015
TO:
Our Savior’s, San Clemente
TO:
Laguna Presbyterian Church, Laguna Beach
ANNIVERSARIES OF ROSTERED LEADERS ̶ 2016
MORE THAN FIFTY YEARS
Carol Worthing
1943
Robert L. Miller
P.E. Van Tassel
1945
Harvey A. Anderson
Luverne C. Tengbom
1946
Bruce P. Craft
Lowell O. Larson
1948
Duane A. Berg
John W. Spann
1949
Richard L. Elliott
Melvin M. Kieschnick
1950
Fred P. Fritschel
Kenneth J. Dale
1951
Eugene R. Holtz
Charles A. Endter
1952
George S. Johnson
Donovan A. Myers
1952
David D. Reynolds
Robert J. Wayne
1952
Kenneth Caudill
Gilbert C. Moore
1953
Carl Erickson
Lawrence H. Roller
1953
Donald Johnson
Edward Eskildsen
1954
Ying-Chhi Kuo
William Schumacher
1954
Jack Lindquist
Stanley N. Califf
1955
Albert Stott
David Lindberg
1955
David Wenger
M. Laurel Gray
1956
David Chen
Paul C. Oas
1956
Frank Gearhart
Edward J. Volkmann
1956
Charles Malloch
Raymond Mehl
1957
Theodore C. Johns
Daniel Hansen
1958
William A. Norman
Paul Larson
1958
Charles W. Sundry
John Knudson
1958
David Babcock
1959
50 YEARS-1966
Roy Blumhorst
1959
Betty L. Darrow
Larry Gardner
1959
David R. Kupka
Stephen L. Brandt
1960
Clifford A. Listug
Robert R. Freistedt
1960
R. Joseph Ramnarine
Ronald J. Lavin
1960
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1960
1961
1961
1962
1962
1962
1962
1962
1962
1963
1963
1963
1963
1963
1963
1963
1964
1964
1964
1965
1965
1965
as of April 4, 2016
45 YEARS-1971
David Barber
R. Dennis Dirks
Joseph J. Johnson
William A. Radaatz
Lee B. Rozen
25 YEARS-1991
Cheryl Corneliussen
Sharon L. Gunderson
Timothy J. Mason
Ruth M. Peterson
20 YEARS-1996
Phillip Deming
Darin Erisman
Rafael Melendez
Michael D. Schneider
Kathy Waltz
40 YEARS-1976
Ronald D. Baesler
David J. Krueger
Frederick C. Lubs
Richard W. Martyn
Mark S. Will
15 YEARS-2001
Jake Bell
Glen Egertson
Laura A. Line
Barbara Martyn
35 YEARS-1981
Simon W.S. Lee
Richard W. Vevia
Raymond W. Wade
30 YEARS-1986
Steven A. Awbrey
Karin Boye
Georgia Decker
David P. Jorstad
Andrew A. Taylor
10 YEARS-2006
Darryl Kozak
Daniel E. Roschke
May Tsui
Kathryn Zurcher
5 YEARS-2011
Linda Brown
Yukio Hamada
Deogracias Olivar
ANNIVERSARIES OF CONGREGATIONS – 2016
135 YEARS
Lihue, Lihue
102 YEARS
Trinity, Hemet
St. Peter, Santa Ana
128 YEARS
Eden, Riverside
First, San Diego
101 YEARS
Our Savior’s, San Diego
122 YEARS
Trinity, Riverside
70 YEARS
St. Peter's by the Sea, San Diego
Salem, Whittier
116 YEARS
Lutheran Church of Honolulu
65 YEARS
Lutheran Church of the Master, La Habra
Highland Avenue, San Bernardino
115 YEARS
First, Redlands
60 YEARS
Good Shepherd, Buena Park
Lutheran Church of the Cross, Rialto
Shepherd of the Hills, Whittier
110 YEARS
Emanuel Danish, Yorba Linda
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as of April 4, 2016
55 YEARS
Shepherd of the Valley , La Mesa
Bethlehem, Los Alamitos
Hope, Palm Desert
Joy of Christ, Pearl City
Calvary, Santa Ana
Grace, Upland
50 YEARS
Christ, Chino
St. Paul, Fullerton
30 YEARS
Grace Taiwanese, San Diego
5 YEARS
Glory, Chula Vista
CELEBRATING FIFTY YEARS OF ORDINATION – 2016
THE REV. DAVID R. KUPKA was ordained June 19, 1966, in the American Lutheran Church
(ALC), Minneapolis. The ordination service, officiated by Pastor Victor C. Swain, was held at Lake
Nokomis Lutheran Church since Kupka’s home congregation, Our Redeemer Lutheran Church,
had been heavily damaged by fire.
After serving his first call to Zion Lutheran Church, Weyburn, Saskatchewan, Canada, Kupka
returned to Minnesota until 1980 when he was called to Redeemer Lutheran Church, Bakersfield.
He has also served Ascension, Scottsdale, and King of Kings, Oceanside.
Kupka received his Doctor of Ministry (D.Min.) from Luther Seminary in 1983, and his certificate in
Geriatric Pastoral Care from the Center for Aging, Religion & Spirituality in 1997. Both are located
in St. Paul, Minnesota. Other areas of service include Conference Dean, South Pacific District of
the ALC; Lutheran Social Services area coordinator, Bakersfield; Conference Dean of the Grand
Canyon Synod; and a First Call group coordinator for Pacifica Synod.
As a parish pastor for 39 years, Kupka has been gifted with the ability to bring healing and
wholeness to stagnated or troubled congregations following a long-term pastorate or conflict
situation. “Well done, good and faithful servant.”
THE REV. CLIFFORD A. LISTUG was ordained June 19, 1966. The Rev. T.C. Hanson, District
President, Northern Minnesota, American Lutheran Church (ALC), presided at Moe Lutheran
Church, Roseau, Minn. Listug also remembers the liturgist, the Rev. Erling Huglen, the presenter,
the Rev. A.C. Rykken and special music by Thoralf Melby and Paul Spjut.
His first call was to associate pastor of St. Andrew Lutheran Church, Whittier. Listug was the
pastor at Hope Lutheran Church, San Diego, from 1970 until his retirement in 1999.
Listug believes that “every person in a congregation is called to be an equal partner, minister and
listener. There is no distinction in the Kingdom, all are sacred and equal before the Lord.
Contemporary Faith and the Sciences complement each other. There is no age in the Kingdom
‘What are a few years in the life of an eternal people.’ (Holden Village wisdom)”
Daily, Listug has deep gratitude for the overflowing love his sweetheart-wife-soulmate and two
beautiful stepchildren have given to him over the past 35 years. He seeks “every day to be the
best, caring, non-judgmental person I am able to be with my fellow travelers on the planet earth.”
THE REV. R. JOSEPH RAMNARINE was ordained July 7, 1966, at Beverly Hills Lutheran
Church, Lutheran Church in America, by Dr. Carl Segerhammar.
2 - 15
as of April 4, 2016
Ramnarine served four congregations before retirement: Beverly Lutheran Church, Los Angeles;
Bethel Lutheran Church, Los Angeles; Atonement Lutheran Church, Colton; and Lutheran
Church of the Cross, Rialto.
He continues to be a faithful disciple of the Lord.
CELEBRATING FIFTY YEARS OF COMMISSIONING – 2016
MS. BETTY L. DARROW was commissioned as an Associate in Ministry on February 13, 1966.
The service took place at Zion Lutheran Church, Petersburg, Michigan, and was officiated by the
Rev. Robert Pflueger.
Darrow has served in a variety of congregations and ministries. She served as parish worker for
education ministries of Bethany Lutheran Church, Fort Wayne, Indiana; Director of Education for
First English Lutheran Church, Peoria, Illinois; Youth and Education Director, King of Glory
Lutheran Church, Fountain Valley; and as Education and Women’s Ministry Director at Preston
Meadow Lutheran Church, Plano, Texas, and Gloria Dei Lutheran Church, Dana Point.
She served on the Board of Directors for Briarwood Retreat Ministries, Argyle, Texas, and for the
Lutheran Home of Greater Peoria, Illinois.
High in energy, Darrow has provided excellence in programming.
CELEBRATING TWENTY FIVE YEARS OF ORDINATION – 2016
THE REV. CHERYL CORNELIUSSEN was ordained June 16, 1991, in her home congregation,
Elim Lutheran Church, Robbinsdale, Minnesota, by the Rev. Dr. Paull E. Spring, Bishop of
Northwestern Pennsylvania Synod, ELCA. Also present and participating at ordination were her
baptismal pastor, the Rev. Dr. William Siegel and confirmation pastor, the Rev. C. Ward Nerothin.
Mt. Calvary in Erie, Penn., was Corneliussen’s first call, after which she moved to California to
serve Hope Lutheran Church, Palm Desert. She served Zion Lutheran Church, Stockton, before
beginning her current call at Our Saviour’s, Orange, in 2011.
In the Northwestern Pennsylvania Synod, Corneliussen served in a number of ways, including as
a member, committee chair and president of Mercy Center for Women, a conference dean, the
Bishop’s Policy Committee and the Professional Leaders’ Retreat Planning Committee. In
California she served on the Sierra Pacific Bishop’s Synodical Ecumenical Affairs Committee, and
for Pacifica, the Bishop’s Consultation Committee, the Professional Leaders’ Conference
Planning Committee and chaired the New, Transformation and Redevelopment Mission Fund
Committee.
With an emphasis in teaching, redevelopment and pastoral care, Corneliussen is an open, caring
and Christ-centered pastor-teacher/pastor-redeveloper who strives to serve Jesus and share the
light of Jesus Christ.
THE REV. SHARON L. GUNDERSON was ordained June 9, 1991, at Grace Lutheran Church,
Culver City. Bishop Robert L. Miller and Pastor Robert Van de Ven presided at the worship
service.
2 - 16
as of April 4, 2016
Gunderson has served her first and only call for 25 years at Bethany Lutheran Church, Norco.
Bethany’s main strength, in addition to worship, preaching and teaching, has been one of
hospitality as a small community center who welcomes all. They have had the privilege of
welcoming the Indonesian HKBP California (Batak) congregation into their midst for 13 years.
Because Gunderson was a professional keyboard artist before receiving God’s call to minister,
she has especially enjoyed creating and playing for services as well as preaching and teaching,
“especially Junior Highers!” Because of her varied skills she was a good match for a small, familystyle oriented church. She thanks God expressly “for my compassionate heart.”
THE REV. TIMOTHY J. MASON was ordained July 28, 1991, in the Evangelical Lutheran Church
of America’s LaCrosse Area Synod. Bishop Stefan T. Guttormsson presided at the service at St.
Paul Lutheran Church. Bishop Guttormsson kept talking about being a member of the “Apostolic
Succession …” Mason notes, “I still am not sure what he was getting at …”
As an intern, Mason served St. Paul International Lutheran Church, an interesting ‘hybrid” of
ELCA and LCMS, in Iidabashi/Tokyo, Japan. After ordination he was called to serve in the
Division for Global Mission (DGM) as a missionary pastor in Japan, where he remained until
2004, serving the DGM in a number of congregations as Missionary pastor. The most memorable
was Kakegawa Kikugawa Lutheran Church, a two-point parish with one church in the town of
Kikugawa and another in the city of Kakegawa, Mason recalls, “For one term I served as the
dean for our cluster of churches. I was also assigned to work at the Denmark Farm, a farm/facility
for troubled youth. This was a very special time for Yuriko and I because we helped the members
of Kakegawa Kikugawa Lutheran Church totally rebuild their sanctuary and parsonage in
Kakegawa as well as totally remodel the Kikugawa sanctuary and grounds. During this time we
also brought a large group of Japanese youth to the U.S. to experience one week at Wapogasset
Lutheran Bible Camp in Amery, Wis., as well as visiting our supporting churches in Florida.”
Currently pastor of Calvary by the Sea Lutheran Church, Honolulu, Mason serves on the board of
the Hawaii Foodbank, has served the Hawai’i Alliance of Nonprofit Organization, and is the 1998
recipient of the Alumni Service Award from Lutheran Youth Encounter. He follows many passions
including feeding the hungry, finding help for the needy, working for the preservation of the
Marine habitat, and working as a member of Faith Action for Community Equity.
Mason is an evangelist: a messenger of the Good News of God’s Amazing Grace bestowed
onto us through the life and death of Jesus. Every day he prays “that God opens my eyes,
heart, ears and brain to the ever presence of God. Whatever happens each day is a gift and
adventure.”
THE REV. RUTH M. PETERSON was ordained October 6, 1991, in a wonderful celebration at
her home congregation, Good Shepherd Lutheran Church, Concord, California, where she
received First Communion, had been confirmed, celebrated family baptisms and marriages as
well as funerals. There was also a touch of Hawaii in the service as Ohana from Peterson’s
internship congregation, St. John, Kailua, had flown over for the day and brought the flowers and
lei for the worship. She was ordained by ELCA Sierra Pacific Synod bishop, the Rev. Lyle Miller.
Peterson’s first call was to Zion Lutheran Church in Stockton, California. In May 1995 she was
called to Faith Lutheran Church in Reno, Nevada. April 2000 brought her to Hawaii’s Joy of Christ
Lutheran Church in Pearl City. Since May 2011 Peterson has served with Pacific Health
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as of April 4, 2016
Ministries, first as a Chaplain for Legacy of Life Hawaii and currently as the Chaplain at Pohai
Nani Good Samaritan Society in Kaneohe, Hawaii.
She has served on a variety of ministry teams and committees in both the Sierra Pacific Synod as
well as the Pacifica Synod and has also served as dean several terms in both Synods. Peterson
helped to form OYEA (Oahu Youth Education and Activities) which worked to promote
cooperative youth ministries between congregations on Oahu. She was part of the planning team
for both the 2007 and 2014 Synod Assemblies held on Oahu, and is currently the dean of the
Hukilau Conference.
Believing that we are better when we find ways to cooperate with others, Peterson has always
found ways to work with other congregations and Christians, sharing our strengths and
supporting each other in our journey. Congregations she has served have worked jointly with
neighboring congregations and congregations from other denominations on social ministry efforts,
youth programs, service projects and joint worship services. She is passionate about serving
people and having a living faith.
NECROLOGY
THE REV. JAMES W. HALLERBERG
April 2, 1940 – June 19, 2015
THE REV. KENNETH A. KRUEGER
October 29, 1927 – August 1, 2015
THE REV. DONALD E. BUTENSHON
June 6, 1927 – October 17, 2015
THE REV. DONALD SCOTT HEWES
December 8, 1942 – December 14, 2015
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as of April 4, 2016
Pacifica Synod Assembly, May 5 -7, 2016
FINANCIAL SECTION - TABLE OF CONTENTS
A. Financial Gifts Trend 2009-2016
Page 3-1
B. Financial Gifts
Page 3-2
C. Financial Gift Disbursements
Page 3-3
D. Pacifica Synod Comparative Statement of Financial Position
as of January 31, 2016
Page 3-4
E. Investment Report as of January 31, 2016
Page 3-5
F. Assumptions for Fiscal Year Ending January 31, 2017 Spend
Plan and Fiscal Year Ending January 31, 2018 Budget
Page 3-6
G. Pacifica Synod General Fund Budget Worksheet Summary
Page 3-7
H. General Fund Budget Worksheet Detail
Page 3-8
I. Mission Congregations Funding Plan
Page 3-14
J. 2014 and 2015 Undesignated Mission Support by Congregation Page 3-16
K. Mission Support and Parochial Report Recognitions
Page 3-19
L. Independent Auditor’s Report as of Jan. 31, 2016
If you have any questions about the financial section, please send an email to
Gary Kakert, Synod Treasurer, at [email protected], and copy to Hitoshi
Adachi, Assistant to the Bishop, Finance, at [email protected] and
Terri Robertson, Synod Bookkeeper, at [email protected]. You will
have an opportunity to ask questions of the Finance Committee at the Budget
Hearing on Thursday morning, May 5th, beginning 10:00 a.m. in the Berkeley
meeting room on the first floor of the Irvine Marriott.
This page intentionally left blank
Page 3-1
Millions
0
0.5
1
1.5
2
2.5
2009-10
2010-11
2011-12
2012-13
2013-14
2014-15
2015-2016
World Hunger & Malaria
Designated
Mission Support
Total
FINANCIAL GIFTS TREND OF THE PACIFICA SYNOD 2009-2016
Page 3-2
Congregation Designated
Contributions $405,628
ELCA World Hunger
ELCA Malaria Campaign
Non-Congregation Gifts
$335,865
February 1, 2015 to January 31, 2016
$2,295,068
FINANCIAL GIFTS TO THE PACIFICA SYNOD
Congregation Mission
Support Contributions
$1,453,247
Page 3-3
Grants to Institutions &
Agencies $119,166
Synod Ministries &
Administration $1,003,602
Malaria Campaign
Designated Gifts $25,474
World Hunger Designated
Gifts $74,854
$2,369,880
Congregational Designated
Gifts $405,628
Mission Support to ELCA
$741,156
FINANCIAL GIFT DISBURSEMENTS OF THE PACIFICA SYNOD
Pacifica Synod
Comparative Statements of Financial Position
Jan 31, 16
Jan 31, 15
$ Change
% Change
ASSETS
Current Assets
Checking/Savings/Investments
1100000 · Checking & Savings Accounts
1108000 · Designated Funds
1110000 · Temporarily Restricted Accounts
1112000 · Permanently Restricted
Total Checking/Savings
(117,927)
1,407,197
30,889
100,000
1,420,159
-100%
113%
4%
64%
63%
153,965
128,358
5,500
133,858
25,607
(5,500)
20,107
20%
-100%
15%
Other Current Assets
1150000 · Prepaid Insurance
1155000 · Prepaid Expense
Total Other Current Assets
Total Current Assets
3,578
3,578
3,842,604
3,206
12,455
15,661
2,414,420
(3,206)
(8,877)
(12,082)
1,428,184
-100%
-71%
-77%
59%
Fixed Assets
1170000 · Fixed Assets
Total Fixed Assets
2,816,232
2,816,232
2,878,574
2,878,574
(62,342)
(62,342)
-2%
-2%
2,100,000
2,100,000
(2,100,000)
(2,100,000)
-100%
-100%
7,392,993
(734,158)
-10%
27,716
27,716
100%
100%
Accounts Receivable
1140000 · Inter-Fund Loans Receivable
1145500 · Other Accounts Receivable
Total Accounts Receivable
(98)
2,650,441
779,145
255,573
3,685,060
153,965
Other Assets
1210000 · Synod Owned Church Property
Total Other Assets
TOTAL ASSETS
LIABILITIES & EQUITY
Liabilities
Current Liabilities
Accounts Payable
2000 · Accounts Payable
Total Accounts Payable
Other Current Liabilities
1305000 · Accounts Payable - Current
1306000 · Inter-Fund Loans Payable
1340000 · Designated Funds 1345000 · Temporarily Restricted Funds
Total Other Current Liabilities
Total Current Liabilities
Long Term Liabilities
1310000 · Long Term Liability
1350000 · Permanently Restricted Funds
Total Long Term Liabilities
Total Liabilities
Equity
1450000 · Operating Fund-Beg. Balance
1460000 · Property Fund
1470000 · Synod Owned Church Prop Fund
Net Income
Total Equity
TOTAL LIABILITIES & EQUITY
6,658,835
117,829
1,243,244
748,255
155,573
2,264,901
27,716
27,716
2,005
153,965
2,613,383
862,453
3,631,806
3,659,522
5,747
128,358
1,283,596
867,536
2,285,237
2,285,237
(3,742)
25,607
1,329,787
(5,083)
1,346,569
1,374,285
-65%
20%
104%
-1%
59%
60%
19,805
255,573
275,378
3,934,900
26,562
155,573
182,135
2,467,372
(6,757)
100,000
93,243
1,467,528
-25%
64%
51%
59%
2,321
2,796,426
(74,812)
2,723,935
(143,101)
2,911,632
2,121,134
35,956
4,925,622
145,422
(115,206)
(2,121,134)
(110,768)
(2,201,686)
102%
-4%
-100%
-308%
-45%
6,658,835
7,392,993
(734,158)
-10%
Page 3-4
Thrivent Financial
Mission Investment Fund (ELCA)
1106600 · MIF-Temp Rest Term B 7/26/16 3435
1108011 · MIF-Temp Rest Term A CD 3170
Total Checking and Investments
Total Investments
Total 1112000 · Permanently Restricted
1112001 · Warner Trust 3/24/17 #9746
1108210 - ELCA Endowment - Matthew 25 Fund
1112000 · Permanently Restricted
Page 3-5
ELCA Endowment Fund Pooled Trust
Total 1110000 · Temporarily Restricted Accounts
1106260 · MIF-Wright Estate 3/05/17 #6003
1106220 · MIF-Wright Estate-MP #7276
1110000 · Temporarily Restricted Accounts
Total 1108000 · Designated Funds
1108209 - ELCA Endowment - Mission Fund
1108208 - Thrivent Investment Account
1108203 · ELCA Endowment -NMDEF - #271135
2516 - New Ministry Starts - 2516
1107300 · MIF-Latino CD 4/26/17 #7931
1108010 · ELCA End. - LCC Sales Proceeds
1108207 · ELCA Endowment- Latino A
1106050 · MIF- Desig Term A 7/6/16 #0449
1108000 · Designated Funds
Investments
America's Christian Credit Union
1107750 - ACCU Savings #5194 - MDF Auto
Total 1100000 · Checking
Farmers & Merchants Bnak
Institution
1103000 - Farmers & Merchants Checking
1100000 · Checking Accounts
Checking
Mission Term Select 6 Year
Balanced Fund
Fixed 6 Year Term
Fixed 6 Year Term
Fixed 6 Year Term
Demand Investment
Balanced Fund
Balanced Fund
Demand Investment
Balanced Fund
Balanced Fund
Fixed 6 Year Term
Balanced Fund
Fixed 6 Year Term
Checking
Checking
Type of account
Pacifica Synod
Investment Report as of January 31, 2016
3/24/17
N/A
7/22/16
7/26/16
3/5/17
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
4/26/17
N/A
7/6/16
N/A
N/A
Maturity Date
2.970%
N/A
4.430%
4.430%
2.970%
0.400%
N/A
N/A
0.850%
N/A
N/A
2.970%
N/A
4.430%
0.100%
-
Interest Rate
255,573
155,573
100,000
779,145
418,405
180,189
173,624
6,927
2,650,441
276,538
854,580
345,623
101,663
45,982
150,000
198,054
678,000
-98
643
-741
Detail Amount
3,685,060
3,685,158
255,573
779,145
2,650,441
-98
Total Amount
4
5
6
7
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
1
2
3
Page 3-6
Due to Bishop Election in May 2016, many line items have remained the same and can be adjusted when Spend Plan for FYE 01.31.18 is determined.
Mission Support is $1,497,169 representing a 1.4% increase from the Spend Plan for FYE January 31, 2017.
Restricted Designated/Donor Income and Expense are equal as this is an in and out item.
Non Congregational Income includes:
a. ELCA Director of Evangelical Mission support increse 2%, $104,000.
b. Staffing support of $60,000 continues from Designated Fund even after April 2017.
c. ELCA support of Asian ministries continues the same $43,000.
d. Resurrection Lutheran Church reimbursement for ATTB continues the same level at $28,000.
Mission Support continues to the ELCA at 51% of Synod Mission Support.
Grants to Institutions and Agencies continue at 8.2%.
Compensation includes a 1.5% overall increase to be effective February 1, 2017.
Assumptions
Pacifica Synod General Fund Budget for FYE January 31, 2018
Mission Support is $1,476,498 representing a 1.6% increase from the actual for FYE January 31, 2016.
Restricted Designated/Donor Income and Expense are equal as this is an in and out item.
Non Congregational Income includes:
a. ELCA Director of Evangelical Mission support 2% increase $102,000.
b. Staffing support of $60,000 continues from Designated Fund even after April 2016.
c. ELCA support of Asian ministries continues the same $46,384.43(Out of which, $3,000 will be allocated to Temp. Fund)
d. Resurrection Lutheran Church reimbursement for ATTB continues the same level at $28,000.
Mission Support continues to the ELCA at 51% of Synod Mission Support.
Grants to Institutions and Agencies continue at 8.2%.
Compensation and benefit will increase by 1.5% plus $6,000. The additional $6,000 is for the overtime pay for the first 6 months.
Income and expense line items added for Bishop's Transition. Funding to come from Designated Fund Bishop's Transition (1346138)
Assumptions
Pacifica Synod General Fund Spend Plan for FYE January 31, 2017
113,856
1603000 · Grants/Institutions/Agencies
1910000 · Ministry Teams
875,956
(73,170)
1850000 · Depreciation
Net Income General Fund
(26,098)
845,741
4200000 - Net Income Synod Owned Property
129,483
2,036,774
1860000 - Interest Expense LCC Loan
Net Income Operating Fund
Total Expense
13,992
Page 3-7
(74,812)
(67,696)
(7,116)
2,299,611
15,550
920,356
868,976
Ministry Teams
Total Synod Office
19,928
25,560
21,232
4,989
13,014
4,989
1800000 · Equipment Lease
3,024
1840000 · Utilities/Telephone
4,186
1770000 · Office Expenses
10,992
15,118
20,562
2,852
6,516
2,041
62,646
504
4,800
740,824
1,363,705
119,166
503,383
741,156
2,292,496
335,865
503,383
1,453,248
Audited 12 Month
Ended 1/31/16
1830000 · Occupancy
8,848
17,472
1750000 · Insurance
1748000 · Professional Services
2,662
1730000 · Hospitality
21,146
5,940
1720000 · Office Supplies
1740000 · Contract Services
1,879
1700000 · Shipping & Postage
72,449
749
1658000 · Professional Expense
1670000 · Travel
5,293
689,117
1657000 · Continuing Education
1650000 · Compensation & Benefits
Synod Office
1,153,806
331,309
1602000 · Restricted Designated Donor Exp
Total Benevolence
708,641
1601000 Mission Support to the - ELCA
Benevolence
Expense
2,166,257
445,457
1510000 · Non-Congregation Income
Total Income
331,309
1,389,491
1502000 · Restricted Designated Donor
1500000 · Congregation Contributions-Mission Support
Income
Audited 12
Months Ended
1/31/15
465
2,194,935
22,650
887,565
24,875
25,720
5,000
3,700
9,850
15,200
13,320
3,000
6,000
2,000
52,000
1,100
4,800
721,000
1,284,720
115,620
450,000
719,100
2,195,400
335,400
450,000
1,410,000
Base Spend Plan 12
Months Ended
1/31/16 Assembly
Affirmed 5/29/15
1,125
2,174,275
22,650
855,065
24,875
25,720
5,000
3,700
9,850
16,700
13,320
3,000
6,000
2,000
52,000
1,100
4,800
687,000
1,296,560
117,260
450,000
729,300
2,175,400
295,400
450,000
1,430,000
Base Budget Plan 12
Months Ended
1/31/17 Assembly
Approved 5/29/15
Pacifica Synod
General Fund Spend Plan Budget Worksheet - Summary
310,979
122,194
1,302,180
121,171
1,294,797
2,000
24,000
2,221,101
47
24,000
2,358,563
14
894,921
21,700
21,700
1,039,766
21,670
26,670
3,400
5,000
5,000
9,550
153,050
16,650
16,650
9,550
3,000
16,200
3,000
17,200
6,700
2,000
6,700
52,000
1,100
4,800
52,000
1,100
4,800
731,151
420,000
420,000
720,346
759,986
753,626
2,221,148
420,000
460,879
2,358,577
1,490,169
420,000
Base Budget Plan 12
Months Ended 1/31/18
Synod
Council
Recommended 3/12/16
1,477,698
Base Spend Plan 12
Synod Council
Approved 3/12/16
27,540
1523451 · Resurrection LC ATTB Reimbursement
445,457
331,309
500
250
1602220 - Pacific Health Ministries (Hawaii)
Total Ecumenical Relationships
250
1602210 · California Council of Churches
Ecumenical Relationships
1603000 · Grants/Institutions/Agencies
708,641
1602000 · Restricted Designated Donor Exp
2,166,257
1601000 Mission Support to the - ELCA
1600000 · Mission Support
Expense
TOTAL INCOME
Total 1510000 · Non-Congregation Income
1530200 · Facility Renewal Reimb Income
1525625 · Bishop Transition Exp Repayment
3,709
24,559
1525610 - Temporary Restricted Funds DEM Support
1530000 · Other Income
60,000
167,487
1525595 - Desig Fds Synodical Admin Staff Support
152 5597 - Desig Funds Repymt of LCC Loan
1525500 - IRS Refund Health ins Premiums
18,501
41,583
1523450 · ELCA Support of Asian Ministries
1525555 · Insurance Claim Proceeds
(2,286)
98,473
1523400 · Cong Synodical Missions Grant for Staff
3,371
1511000 · Non-Cong Support Unrestricted
1521000 · Interest Income
2,400
1501501 · Reimbursement to Synod Practice Trainee
1501499 · Reimbursements to Synod
120
1,720,800
Total 1500000 · Congregation Contributions
1510000 · Non-Congregation Income
331,309
1,389,491
1502000 · Restricted Desg/Donor
1501000 · Mission Support Unrestricted
1500000 · Congregation Contributions
Income
Audited 12
Months Ended
1/31/15
Page 3-8
500
250
250
503,383
741,156
2,292,496
335,865
10,670
459
13
15,261
100,000
3,525
28,000
42,475
100,442
10,378
20,800
3,843
1,956,630
503,383
1,453,248
Audited 12
Month Ended
1/31/16
500
250
250
450,000
719,100
2,195,400
335,400
15,000
6,000
15,000
100,000
28,000
42,000
100,000
12,000
10,000
7,200
200
1,860,000
450,000
1,410,000
Base Spend Plan 12
Months Ended
1/31/16 Assembly
Affirmed 5/29/15
Pacifica Synod
General Fund Spend Plan Budget Worksheet - Detail
500
250
250
450,000
729,300
2,175,400
295,400
15,000
6,000
15,000
60,000
28,000
42,000
100,000
12,000
10,000
7,200
200
1,880,000
450,000
1,430,000
Base Budget Plan 12
Assembly Approved
5/29/15
500
250
250
420,000
753,626
2,358,577
460,879
15,000
500
250
250
420,000
759,986
2,221,148
310,979
15,000
15,000
150,000
60,000
28,000
28,000
15,000
43,000
43,384
60,000
15,000
102,000
15,000
32,779
32,295
102,000
200
420,000
1,910,169
1,897,698
200
1,490,169
420,000
Base Budget Plan 12
Months Ended
1/31/18 Synod
Council
Recommended
3/12/16
1,477,698
Base Spend
Plan 12 Months
Ended 1/31/17
Synod Council
Approved 3/12/16
1,234
1,200
1,200
1657560 · Adachi, Hitoshi
1657561 · Director of Evangelical Mission
Total 1657000 · Continuing Education
5,293
493
1,200
1657000 · Continuing Education - Support Staff
1,200
1657555 · Allen, Terry
689,117
115,455
1657100 · Finck, Murray
1657000 · Continuing Education
Total 1650000 · Compensation & Benefits
1656000 · Employer's Pen/Medical Contrib.
8,036
14,441
1655000 · Employer's FICA Contribution
1655001 · Workers Compensation
12,120
539,065
1,153,806
113,856
77,234
1652063 · Salaries Practical Trainee
1652000 · Salaries
1650000 · Compensation & Benefits
TOTAL BENEVOLENCE
Total 1603000 · Grants/Institutions/Agencies
Total Related Institutions
1,628
45,254
1602130 · California Lutheran University
30,352
1602115-San Diego State Univ. Campus Ministry
15,549
6,909
1602100 · Pacific Lutheran Theological Seminary
Support Related Institutions
Total Related Agencies
1602250 · Central City Lutheran Mission
250
4,442
1602170 · California Lutheran Homes
3,948
1602150 · Lutheran Retreats Camps, & Conferences
20,573
8,500
839
10,000
1602120 · Lutheran Social Services
Support Related Agencies
Total Grants & Partnerships
1605000 · ELCA Region II Support
1602260 - CCM Center for Chinese Ministry
1602240 · Lutheran Planned Giving Partnership
1602180 · Lutheran Office Of Public Policy
Program Grants & Partnerships
Audited 12
Months Ended
1/31/15
Page 3-9
4,800
800
1,000
1,000
1,000
1,000
740,824
136,167
9,984
14,895
23,551
556,227
1,363,705
119,166
80,675
1,804
45,254
33,617
17,076
7,653
250
4,920
4,253
20,916
8,500
929
10,000
1,486
Audited 12
Month Ended
1/31/16
4,800
800
1,000
1,000
1,000
1,000
721,000
134,657
10,010
14,849
12,302
549,183
1,284,720
115,620
78,377
1,687
45,254
31,436
16,096
7,156
250
4,600
4,089
20,647
8,500
869
10,000
1,278
Base Spend Plan 12
Months Ended
1/31/16 Assembly
Affirmed 5/29/15
Pacifica Synod
4,800
800
1,000
1,000
1,000
1,000
687,000
1,296,560
117,260
79,440
1,741
45,254
32,445
16,604
7,386
250
4,748
4,220
20,716
8,500
897
10,000
1,319
Base Budget Plan 12
Assembly Approved
5/29/15
4,800
800
1,000
1,000
1,000
1,000
720,346
154,136
8,500
14,094
34,800
508,816
1,294,797
121,171
81,974
1,870
45,254
34,850
17,817
7,933
250
5,100
4,533
20,880
8,500
963
10,000
1,417
Base Spend
Plan 12 Months
Ended 1/31/17
Synod Council
Approved 3/12/16
4,800
800
1,000
1,000
1,000
1,000
731,151
156,448
8,628
14,305
35,322
516,449
1,302,180
122,194
83,912
1,784
48,876
33,252
17,011
7,570
250
4,866
4,325
20,771
8,500
919
10,000
1,352
Base Budget Plan 12
Months Ended
1/31/18 Synod
Council
Recommended
3/12/16
285
1658007 · Professional Expense DEM
594
143
432
1720001 · Canyon Office Supplies
1720002 · South Cal Lithograph
1720003 · Kelly Paper
2,662
126
Total 1730000 · Hospitality
680
1730000 · Hospitality - Other
Snack Supplies for LCFML
Staff Lunches
322
1,534
Meals for Outside Groups
1730000 · Hospitality
Page 3-10
2,852
0
770
1,800
281
6,516
3,000
100
700
1,500
700
6,000
3,000
100
700
1,500
700
6,000
5,500
2,000
52,000
52,000
1,100
200
200
200
200
150
150
3,000
100
700
1,500
700
6,700
5,940
3,000
700
200
900
650
550
2,000
52,000
52,000
1,100
200
200
200
200
150
150
Base Budget Plan 12
Assembly Approved
5/29/15
Total 1720000 · Office Supplies
3,000
700
200
900
650
550
2,000
52,000
52,000
1,100
200
200
200
200
150
150
Base Spend Plan 12
Months Ended
1/31/16 Assembly
Affirmed 5/29/15
1,200
3,542
680
173
983
567
572
2,041
62,646
62,646
504
53
0
193
193
65
Audited 12
Month Ended
1/31/16
Base Spend
Plan 12 Months
Ended 1/31/17
Synod Council
Approved 3/12/16
NEW - Janitorial Supplies
3,594
642
535
Staples
1,879
72,449
72,449
Costco Office Supplies
1700000 · Shipping & Postage
Total 1670000 · Travel
1670000 · Staff Travel
1670000 · Travel
749
119
1658010 · Professional Expense Allen
Total 1658000 · Professional Expense
10
206
129
1658005 · Professional Expense Adachi
1658004 · Professional Expense MDF
1658002 · Subscriptions
1658001 · Books / Media for Ministry
1658000 · Professional Expense
Audited 12
Months Ended
1/31/15
Pacifica Synod
3,000
100
700
1,500
700
6,700
1,200
5,500
2,000
52,000
52,000
1,100
200
200
200
200
150
150
Base Budget Plan 12
Months Ended
1/31/18 Synod
Council
Recommended
3/12/16
21,146
Total 1740000 · Contract Services
1,754
1791000 · Bank and/or Visa Fees
1776500 · Bishop's Transition Expenses
Total 1770000 · Office Expenses
4,186
622
510
1792500 · Interest Expense - Bishop's Auto Expense
419
1775000 · Bishop's Discretionary
8,848
1770001 · Miscellaneous
1770000 · Office Expenses
Total 1750000 · Insurance
500
6,786
1750002 · Property & General Liability
1750003 · Accident & Medical for Volunteers
1,562
1750001 · Umbrella Liability & D & O
1750000 · Insurance
17,472
1,162
1742000 · Legal
Total 1748000 · Professional Services
16,310
1741001 · Audit
1748000 · Professional Services
1,930
2,416
870
1,103
300
13,760
70
697
1744000 · Payroll Services
RK Plumbing & Heating
Ricoh
Professional Protection
Internet & Web
In House I.T.
ICON Systems / Software
Coastline Technology
CI Business Equipment
A-A MES Pluming and Heating
Audio - Visual Maintenance
1740000 · Contract Services
Audited 12
Months Ended
1/31/15
Page 3-11
3,024
459
467
1,202
795
101
10,992
500
9,480
1,012
15,118
118
15,000
20,562
1,949
917
3,589
720
0
112
2,155
10,170
150
800
Audited 12
Month Ended
1/31/16
3,700
600
1,600
1,000
350
9,850
500
7,550
1,800
15,200
200
15,000
13,320
1,850
2,500
870
300
0
300
7,000
500
Base Spend Plan 12
Months Ended
1/31/16 Assembly
Affirmed 5/29/15
Pacifica Synod
3,700
600
1,600
1,000
350
9,850
500
7,550
1,800
16,700
200
16,500
13,320
1,850
2,500
870
300
0
300
7,000
500
Base Budget Plan 12
Assembly Approved
5/29/15
153,050
150,000
250
1,600
1,000
200
9,550
500
7,550
1,500
16,650
150
16,500
17,200
1,850
2,800
720
0
0
330
11,000
500
Base Spend
Plan 12 Months
Ended 1/31/17
Synod Council
Approved 3/12/16
3,400
600
1,600
1,000
200
9,550
500
7,550
1,500
16,650
150
16,500
16,200
1,850
2,800
720
0
0
330
10,000
500
Base Budget Plan 12
Months Ended
1/31/18 Synod
Council
Recommended
3/12/16
881
1,800
1,714
1,800
1747009 · Cell - Hester/Allen
1747007 · Cell - Adachi
1747008 · Cell - DEM
333
868,976
TOTAL OFFICE
Page 3-12
920,356
19,928
276
21,232
Total 1840000 · Utilities/Telephone
1842000 · Gas
921
618
4,960
5,449
1841001 · Water
13,714
1,800
1,438
1,050
2,219
7,207
25,560
1841000 · Electric
14,889
2,544
1747002 · Verizon-MDF Cell & Wireless Access
Total 1747000 · Telephone
7,031
13,014
16
1747001 · Tele-Pacific Communications
1747000 · Telephone
1840000 · Utilities
Total 1830000 · Occupancy
1830000 · Occupancy - Other
239
9,084
1843101 · Ability Fire Equipment
1838000 · Parkcourt Square HOA
5,583
861
843
8,950
9,084
250
3,664
1834075 - Facility Renewal
NEW - Repair & Maintenance
1834050 · Building Repair (Including Roof)
1834000 · Equipment Repair
1760000 · Business/Property Taxes
1830000 · Occupancy
4,989
3,473
1800000 · Equipment Lease - Other
4,989
1,516
Total 1800000 · Equipment Lease
3,472
1,516
Pitney Bowes
Audited 12
Month Ended
1/31/16
Ricoh
1800000 · Equipment Lease
Audited 12
Months Ended
1/31/15
887,565
24,875
400
775
8,200
15,500
1,800
1,800
1,800
3,100
7,000
25,720
120
9,200
15,000
1,000
400
150
5,000
1,500
3,500
Base Spend Plan 12
Months Ended
1/31/16 Assembly
Affirmed 5/29/15
Pacifica Synod
855,065
24,875
400
775
8,200
15,500
1,800
1,800
1,800
3,100
7,000
25,720
120
9,200
15,000
1,000
400
150
5,000
1,500
3,500
Base Budget Plan 12
Assembly Approved
5/29/15
1,039,766
21,700
250
800
5,650
15,000
1,800
1,800
1,800
2,400
7,200
26,670
120
9,200
15,000
1,500
850
5,000
1,500
3,500
Base Spend
Plan 12 Months
Ended 1/31/17
Synod Council
Approved 3/12/16
894,921
21,700
250
800
5,650
15,000
1,800
1,800
1,800
2,400
7,200
21,670
120
9,200
10,000
1,500
850
5,000
1,500
3,500
Base Budget Plan 12
Months Ended
1/31/18 Synod
Council
Recommended
3/12/16
110
13,992
Net Income General Fund
Total 1850000 · Depreciation
1857000 - LCFML Depreciation
1856000 - Office Equipment Depreciation
1855000 - Furniture & Fixtures Depreciation
1854500 · Transportation - Auto - Volvo Depreciation
1850000 · Depreciation
875,956
(73,170)
60,977
3,495
543
8,155
(26,098)
845,741
4200000 - Net Income Synod Owned Property
129,483
2,036,774
1860000 - Interest Expense LCC Loan
Net Income Operating Fund
TOTAL EXPENSE
Total 1910000 · Ministry Teams
Page 3-13
(74,812)
(67,696)
55,766
3,321
455
8,155
(7,116)
2,299,611
15,550
465
2,194,935
22,650
7,000
3,640
1930001 · Pacifica Synod Candidacy
3,323
50
500
1913300 - Immigration Ministry Team
550
441
1913100 · Hunger & Housing
50
1,400
500
2,500
1912640 · ELCA Church wide Events
374
664
919
2,706
158
669
108
2,200
1912301 - Interim Ministry Team
1912610 · Worship Ministry
1912620 · Day of Theological Reflection
1912630 - Deans'
2,500
1,794
50
5,000
1912200 · Youth Ministry
2,381
2,904
50
359
1912101 · Global Mission
1912004 - New Rostered / Intern Events
4,830
50
1911380 - Asia Pacific
1912003 · Synod Council
50
1911370 - African Descent
143
50
1911360 - Lifelong Learning
150
50
39
50
1911350 - Leadership Discipling
1911340 - Latino / Hispanic
1911330 - Ecumenical Interfaith Relations
2,000
50
1911320 - Coaching
50
Base Spend Plan 12
Months Ended
1/31/16 Assembly
Affirmed 5/29/15
1911310 - Cherish our Children
1,782
Audited 12
Month Ended
1/31/16
1911300 · Book of Faith
1910000 · Ministry Teams
Audited 12
Months Ended
1/31/15
Pacifica Synod
1,125
2,174,275
22,650
7,000
50
500
550
50
1,400
500
2,500
2,500
50
50
5,000
50
50
50
50
150
50
2,000
50
50
Base Budget Plan 12
Assembly Approved
5/29/15
14
2,358,563
24,000
7,000
50
500
550
500
1,400
1,000
2,500
2,500
50
50
5,000
300
50
50
50
300
50
2,000
50
50
Base Spend
Plan 12 Months
Ended 1/31/17
Synod Council
Approved 3/12/16
47
2,221,101
24,000
7,000
50
500
550
500
1,400
1,000
2,500
2,500
50
50
5,000
300
50
50
50
300
50
2,000
50
50
Base Budget Plan 12
Months Ended
1/31/18 Synod
Council
Recommended
3/12/16
Pacifica Synod
Mission Congregations Funding Plan
Annual
Amount
Church of Dream Builders, Anaheim
Income Sources:
ELCA
Pacifica/New Mission Dev Fund
Congregational Support (CoDB)
Congregational Support (St. Luke)
26,000
8,000
20,167
15,456
Expenses:
69,383
The Welcome Ministry of El Cajon
Income Source:
ELCA
Expense:
10,000
Grant Support
10,000
Thai House Church, Fullerton
Income Source:
ELCA
Expense:
10,000
Grant Support
10,000
Resurrection Japanese Ministry, HB
Income Sources:
ELCA
Pacifica/Transformational
13,000
1,000
Expenses:
14,000
Imanuel Indonesian, Los Alamitos
Income Source:
ELCA
Expense:
10,000
Grant Support
10,000
Palm Springs New Start (Start Date TBD)
Income Sources:
ELCA
Pacifica/New Mission Starts
Expenses:
27,000
50,000
TBD
Page 3-14
Pacifica Synod
Mission Congregations Funding Plan
Annual
Amount
Central City Lutheran Mission, San Bernardino
Income Sources:
ELCA
Pacifica/Latino
Expense
10,000
25,000
5,000
Grant Support
40,000
Highland Ave/Spirit of Hope, San Bernardino
Income Sources:
ELCA
Pacifica/Transformational
20,000
5,000
Grant Support
25,000
Expense:
Oromo Christian Fellowship of San Diego
Income Sources:
ELCA
18,000
19,000
Expenses:
37,000
The Table, Santa Ana
Income Sources:
ELCA
Congregational Support
$
$
$
40,000
45,000
34,959
Expenses:
$
119,960
Income Sources:
ELCA
$
$
25,000
17,000
Expenses:
$
42,000
Thai/Shepherd of the Hills, Whittier
Page 3-15
ELCA Pacifica Synod Undesignated Mission Support by Congregation
2014: Feb 1, 2014 to Jan 31, 2015 & 2015: Feb 1, 2015 to Jan 31, 2016
Conference Name
CITY
CHURCH
2014
2015
Sonshine
1
Alpine
Chula Vista
Chula Vista
El Cajon
La Mesa
Lemon Grove
San Diego
San Diego
San Diego
San Diego
Santee
Good Shepherd
St. Mark
Glory
St. John
Shepherd of Valley
Lemon Grove
Calvary / Pan African
College
Oromo
Hope
Carlton Hills
2,844
5,505
0
4,357
17,160
7,500
0
7,451
0
1,614
14,233
566
15,819
1,200
3,133
18,590
8,125
0
3,069
0
1,614
15,119
West San Diego
Coronado
San Diego
San Diego
San Diego
San Diego
San Diego
San Diego
San Diego
San Diego
San Diego
San Diego
San Diego
Resurrection
All Saints
Ascension
Atonement
Christ
Clairemont/Iglesia Luterana
First
Gethsemane
Our Savior's/Nues. Salv.
St. Andrew's
St. Peter by Sea
Tierrasanta
3,500
1,400
18,000
10,560
20,000
16,700
26,862
10,830
3,000
110,247
25,658
5,000
6,300
1,400
19,250
4,400
20,000
18,610
38,651
12,084
3,000
94,487
38,282
5,000
Encinitas
Escondido
Oceanside
Poway
Ramona
San Diego
San Marcos
Solana Beach
Vista
Bethlehem
House of Prayer
King of Kings
Incarnation
Spirit of Joy
Taiwanese Lutheran
San Marcos
Calvary
First and Primera Iglesia
46,928
23,940
4,162
20,050
4,265
3,750
21,865
43,200
9,355
46,348
21,945
0
15,000
2,750
3,750
19,500
48,000
15,983
2
Harvest
3
Page 3-16
Conference Name
CITY
CHURCH
2014
2015
Raincross
4
Chino
Claremont
Corona
Hemet
Hemet
Lake Elsinore
Moreno Valley
Christ
Good Shepherd
Peace
Spirit of Joy
Trinity
Shepherd of Life
Lord of Life
Bethany
0
30,442
7,391
16,390
3,000
3,301
5,200
1,950
2,200
4,050
750
2,867
4,581
650
11,000
22,830
10,417
4,000
0
0
27,312
12,832
17,685
3,999
3,258
5,200
2,300
1,200
6,736
0
5,014
4,500
1,039
10,600
21,380
40,083
4,000
600
LC of Our Savior
Prince of Peace
Trinity
Faith
18,208
3,022
10,115
1,600
0
57,168
3,200
9,000
13,586
3,600
2,539
17,679
0
13,419
1,350
16,500
2,880
10,357
2,500
0
56,299
12,000
12,000
14,782
3,600
5,000
22,191
0
17,077
2,020
LC of the Master
Gloria Dei
Grace (Chinese)
Mission
Newport Harbor
Community
Christ
Our Saviour
The Table
3,000
68,332
1,523
13,000
18,150
6,978
13,242
25,600
377
3,000
62,706
0
11,000
19,550
10,440
13,564
27,756
1,386
Norco
Norco
Ontario
Ontario
Riverside
Riverside
Riverside
Riverside
Sun City
Temecula
Upland
Upland
Big Bear
5
Saddleback
7
Banning
Barstow
Big Bear City
Fontana
Joshua Tree
Palm Desert
Palm Desert
Rancho Cucamonga
Redlands
Rialto
San Bernardino
San Bernardino
Twentynine Palms
Victorville
Yucaipa
Corona Del Mar
Dana Point
Irvine
Laguna Niguel
Newport Beach
Rcho Santa Margarita
San Clemente
San Clemente
Santa Ana
HKBP California
First/Primera
Prince of Peace
Grace Luth. Chch. of Glen Avon
Eden
Hope
Trinity
Faith
Hope
Grace
HKBP
Our Savior
Shepherd of the Desert
Spirit of Peace
Gloria Dei
Faith
Hope
St. John
Cross & Crown
First
LC of the Cross
Highland Avenue (Spirit of Hope)
Page 3-17
Conference Name
CITY
CHURCH
2014
2015
Son & Surf
8
Cypress
Fountain Valley
Garden Grove
Garden Grove
Huntington Beach
Los Alamitos
Orange
Orange
Santa Ana
Santa Ana
Seal Beach
Mt. Calvary
King of Glory
Our Redeemer
St. Olaf
Resurrection
Bethlehem
Christ
Our Saviour
Calvary
St. Peter / San Pedro
Redeemer
0
35,088
22,996
19,500
24,360
12,456
5,804
19,057
0
7,866
9,150
0
40,859
26,628
19,800
21,075
10,105
4,221
19,304
1,190
5,948
9,000
Rejoice
9
Anaheim
Anaheim
Anaheim
Anaheim
Anaheim
Buena Park
Fullerton
Fullerton
Fullerton
La Habra
La Habra
Whittier
Whittier
Whittier
Whittier
Yorba Linda
Yorba Linda
Faith
Grace
Grace (Taiwanese)
Lamb of God
Church of Dream Builders
Good Shepherd
First
St. Luke / San Lucas
St. Paul
Emanuel
LC of the Master
Salem
Shepherd of the Hills
Thai Christian Fellowship
St. Andrew
Emanuel Danish
Messiah
1,500
0
500
6,848
300
6,775
24,561
200
45,120
33,800
2,500
273
2,500
2,175
13,442
0
20,000
1,900
1,000
500
6,462
0
7,800
19,635
794
45,120
28,600
2,500
0
3,000
1,087
13,411
1,000
20,000
Hukilau
10
Honolulu
Honolulu
Honolulu
Kailua
Kailua-Kona
Kihei, Maui
Lihue
Miliani
Pearl City
Waianae
Calvary
LC of Honolulu
Prince of Peace
St. John
LC of the Holy Trinity
Kihei
Lihue
Christ
Joy of Christ
Maluhia
35,088
25,336
0
17,557
13,776
30,343
13,611
2,700
2,758
3,900
35,088
23,760
1,320
22,601
14,230
25,900
12,613
3,600
3,244
3,600
Page 3-18
April 1, 2016
2016 Mission Support Intent and 2015 Parochial Report Recognitions
Thank you to those congregations who returned their 2016 Mission Support Intent and
2015 Parochial report by the date the Synod Assembly notebook went to press.
2015 Mission Support Intent
Sonshine Conference : Shepherd of Valley, La Mesa; Calvary, San Diego; Carlton Hills, Santee.
West San Diego Conference : Resurrection, Coronado; All Saints, San Diego; Claremont/Iglesia
Luterana, San Diego; First, San Diego; Gethsemane, San Diego; St. Andrew's, San Diego; St.
Peter’s by Sea, San Diego. Harvest Conference: Bethlehem, Encinitas; San Marcos, San Marcos.
Raincross Conference: Good Shepherd, Claremont; Spirit of Joy, Hemet; Shepherd of Life, Lake
Elsinore; Bethany, Norco. Big Bear Conference: Our Savior’s, Banning; St. John’s, Palm Desert:
First Evangelical, Redlands; LC of Our Savior, San Bernardino; Faith, Yucaipa. Saddleback
Conference: Community, Rancho Santa Margarita. Son & Surf Conference: Resurrection,
Huntington Beach; Our Savior’s, Orange. Rejoice Conference: Lamb of God, Anaheim; St.
Andrew, Whittier. Hukilau Conference: Prince of Peace, Honolulu; Christ, Mililani; Maluhia,
Waianae.
Note: If your congregation is not listed, please get a Statement of Intent for 2016 from the
registration desk and return it to the synod office. Thank you!
THANK YOU to those congregations who stated their plan to Tithe 10% (or more!) of their
Congregational Weekly Offerings to the work of the Pacifica Synod and the Evangelical Lutheran
Church in America (indicated on their 2016 Statement of Intent).
Sonshine Conference : Shepherd of Valley, La Mesa; Carlton Hills, Santee. West San Diego
Conference : Resurrection, Coronado; First, San Diego; Gethsemane, San Diego; St. Andrew's,
San Diego; St. Peter’s by Sea, San Diego. Raincross Conference: Good Shepherd, Claremont;
Spirit of Joy, Hemet. Big Bear Conference: St. John’s, Palm Desert. Son & Surf Conference: Our
Savior’s, Orange. Hukilau Conference: Maluhia, Waianae.
Thank you to these congregations and to ALL congregations for their gifts in 2015.
Page 3-19
April 1, 2016
2015 Parochial Report
Sonshine Conference : Glory, Chula Vista; St. John, El Cajon; Shepherd of the Valley, La Mesa;
Lemon Grove, Lemon Grove; Hope, San Diego; Carlton Hills, Santee. West San Diego Conference
: All Saints, San Diego; Ascension, San Diego; Atonement, San Diego; Clairemont, San Diego;
Christ, San Diego; First, San Diego; Gethsemane, San Diego; Our Savior’s/Nues. Salv., San Diego;
St. Andrew's, San Diego; St. Peter’s by Sea, San Diego. Harvest Conference: Spirit Harbor,
Carlsbad; Bethlehem, Encinitas; House of Prayer, Escondido; King of Kings, Oceanside; Spirit of
Joy, Ramona; San Marcos, San Marcos; Calvary, Solana Beach. Raincross Conference: Good
Shepherd, Claremont; Peace, Corona; Spirit of Joy, Hemet; Lord of Life, Moreno Valley;
Bethany, Norco; First, Ontario; Grace ELC of Glen Avon, Riverside; Eden, Riverside; Hope,
Riverside; Trinity, Riverside; Hope, Temecula; Grace, Upland. Big Bear Conference: Our Savior,
Banning; Spirit of Peace, Big Bear City; Gloria Dei, Fontana; Faith, Joshua Tree; St. John, Palm
Desert; Cross and Crown, Rancho Cucamonga; First, Redlands; LC of the Cross, Rialto; LC of Our
Savior, San Bernardino; Prince of Peace, Twentynine Palms; Trinity, Victorville; Faith, Yucaipa.
Saddleback Conference: Gloria Dei, Dana Point; Newport Harbor, Newport Beach; Community,
Rancho Santa Margarita; Christ, San Clemente; Our Savior’s, San Clemente. Son & Surf
Conference: Our Redeemer, Garden Grove; St. Olaf, Garden Grove; Resurrection, Huntington
Beach; Christ, Orange; Our Savior, Orange; The Table, Santa Ana. Rejoice Conference: Faith,
Anaheim; Grace Taiwanese, Anaheim; Church of Dream Builders, Anaheim; Good Shepherd,
Buena Park; St. Paul, Fullerton; Emanuel, La Habra; LC of Master, La Habra; St. Andrew,
Whittier; Emanuel Danish, Yorba Linda; Messiah, Yorba Linda. Hukilau Conference: Calvary by
the Sea, Honolulu; LC of Honolulu, Honolulu, Prince of Peace, Honolulu; Holy Trinity, KailuaKona; Kihei, Kihei; Christ, Miliani; Joy of Christ, Pearl City; Maluhia, Waianae.
Note: If your congregation is not listed, please call the synod office for assistance, or go to
ELCA.org to do it online. Thank you!
Page 3-20
PACIFICA SYNOD OF THE EVANGELICAL
LUTHERAN CHURCH IN AMERICA
FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
WITH INDEPENDENT AUDITOR'S REPORT
JANUARY 31, 2016
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Page
INDEPENDENT AUDITOR'S REPORT
3
FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL POSITION
4
STATEMENT OF ACTIVITIES
5
STATEMENT OF CASH FLOWS
6
NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
7
13215 Penn Street, Suite 101
Whittier, CA 90602-4719
(562) 698-9891 • Fax (562) 698-0428
(H&~
Harvey& Parmelee LLP
2511 Huntington Drive
San Marino, CA 91108-2603
(626) 795-9376 • Fax (626) 795-0114
Certified Public Accountants
www.acpa4u.com
Richard Scrivanich, CPA
Debi L. Rhinehart, CPA
Valerie G. Sullivan, CPA
Gregg McC1inley, CPA
Retired
Michael E. Parmelee, CPA
Wayne L. Harvey, CPA Inactive
Genno S. Coppa, CPA Inactive
Independent Auditor's Report
Synod Council
Pacifica Synod of the Evangelical
Lutheran Church In America
We have audited the accompanying financial statements of Pacifica Synod of the Evangelical Lutheran
Church In America (a nonprofit corporation), which comprise the statement of financial position as of January
31, 2016, and the related statements of activities and cash flows for the year then ended, and the related notes
to the financial statements.
Management's Responsibility for the Financial Statements
Management is responsible for the preparation and fair presentation of these financial statements in
accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America; this includes the
design, implementation, and maintenance of internal control relevant to the preparation and fair presentation
of financial statements that are free from material misstatement, whether due to fraud or error.
Auditor's Responsibility
Our responsibility is to express an opinion on these financial statements based upon our audit. We conducted
our audit in accordance with auditing standards generally accepted in the United States of America. Those
standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the
financial statements are free of material misstatement.
An audit involves performing procedures to obtain audit evidence about the amounts and disclosures in the
financial statements. The procedures selected depend on the auditor's judgment, including the assessment of
the risks of material misstatement of the financial statements, whether due to fraud or error. In making those
risk assessments, the auditor considers internal control relevant to the entity's preparation and fair
presentation of the financial statements in order to design audit procedures that are appropriate in the
circumstances, but not for the purpose of expressing an opinion on the effectiveness of the entity's internal
control. Accordingly, we express no such opinion. An audit also includes evaluating the appropriateness of
accounting policies used and the reasonableness of significant accounting estimates made by management, as
well as evaluating the overall presentation of the financial statements.
We believe that the audit evidence we have obtained is sufficient and appropriate to provide a basis for our
audit opinion.
Opinion
In our opinion, the financial statements referred to above present fairly, in all material respects, the financial
position of Pacifica Synod of the Evangelical Lutheran Church In America as of January 31, 2016, and the
changes in its net assets and its cash flows for the year then ended in accordance with accounting principles
generally accepted in the United States of America.
April!, 2016
Members: California Society of Certified Public Accountants • American Institute of Certifted Public Accountants • Division of CPA Firms/ PCPS
STATE ME NT OF FINANCIAL POSITION
January 31,2016
Unrestricted
ASSETS
Current Assets
Cash In Checking Accounts
Mission Plus Accounts
New Mission Starts
Cathryn W. Wright Bequest
Mission Certificates
Latina/Hispanic Ministries
Designated Funds Term A
Temporarily Restricted Term A & B
LCC Sales Proceeds Funds
PS Mission Fund 2015
Thrivent Mutual Funds
Prepaid Expenses
Total Current Assets
$
$
$
150,000
173,624
678,000
598,594
173,624
678,000
598,594
3,578
4,221
345,699
276,538
345,699
276,538
854,580
854,580
3,578
3,433,805
2,650,440
779,144
3,167,169
484,248
(835, 186)
2,816,231
3,167,169
484,248
(835, 186)
2,816,231
(46,251)
(46,251)
(37,058)
(37,058)
$
2,774,201
$
$
29,721
741
6,893
37,355
$
TOTAL LIABILITIES
NET ASSETS
2,613,382
83,309
83,309
$
862,453
$
155,573
155,573
100,000
100,000
255,573
255,573
255,573
$
$
$
6,505,609
$
29,721
741
6,893
37,355
12,912
12,912
12,912
12,912
50,267
50,267
2,723,934
$
643
345,623
6,926
150,000
Long-term Liabilities
Auto Loan - Long-term
Total Long-term Liabilities
TOTAL LIABILITIES AND NET ASSETS
$
Total
6,926
Other Assets
Mission Certificate
Warner Trust Bequest
Mathew 25 Fund
Due from (to) Other Funds
Total Other Assets
LIABILITIES
Current Liabilities
Accrued Expenses and Payables
Bank Overdraft
Auto Loan - Current
Total Curent Liabilities
$
Permanently
Restricted
345,623
Fixed Assets
CFML Land and Building
Furniture, Equipment and Other
Accumulated Depreciation
Total Fixed Assets
TOTAL ASSETS
643
Temporarily
Restricted
Designated
2,774,201
2,613,382
$
2,613,382
$
862,453
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these statements
4
6,455,342
255,573
862,453
$
255,573
$
6,505,609
STATEMENT OF ACTIVITIES
Year Ended January 31,2016
Unrestricted
SUPPORT AND REVENUE
Support:
Mission Support
Designated Donor Contributions
Grants
Contributions
ELCA Staff Support
ELCA Grants - Shared Ministries
Other Support - Shared Ministries
Other Staff Support
Revenue:
Conference and Other Registration Fees
Interest and Dividend Income
Unrealized (Loss) on ELCA Endowment Fund
Unrealized (Loss) on Thriven! Mutual Funds
Other Income
Repayment of Legal Fees Advanced- La Mirada
Interest on Legal Fees Advanced
Transfer to Designated Bishop's Transition Fund
Transfer to Designated PS Mission Fund 2015
Designated Fund Transfers - Shared Ministries
Designated Fund Fixed Asset Addition
Net Assets Released from Restrictions
Total Support and Revenue
EXPENSES
Financial Support to ELCA
Tithe to ELCA - La Mirada Property Sale
Support to Institutions/Agencies
Region 11 Support
Salaries
Payroll Taxes
Worker's Compensation
Pension Plan
Continuing Education
Professional Expenses
Travel
Shipping and Postage
Supplies and Materials
Contract Services
Audit
Legal
Hospitality
Insurance
Office Expense
Interest - Auto Loan
Equipment Maintenance and Lease
Occupancy and Utilities
Depreciation
Ministry Teams
Synod Owned Church Property Sales and Op Expenses
Other Expenses From Funds Released from Restrictions
Financial Support/Desg. Org.
Shared Ministry Expenses
Conferences and Workshops
Lay Ministry Training
Grants
Director Evangelical Mission Expenses
Other
Other Program Expenses
Total Expenses
INCREASE (DECREASE) IN NET ASSETS
NET ASSETS, beginning of year
NET ASSETS, end of year
$ 1,453,248
Desisnated
$
Temporarily
Restricted
Permanently
Restricted
$
$
503,283
71,772
73,096
142,917
163,000
111,479
100,000
(100,000)
10,378
86,860
(60,668)
(73,778)
84,610
(367,914)
(37,652)
(150,000)
(1,157,857)
138,312
1,720
I, 138,231
1,213,076
741,156
298,261
110,666
8,500
579,778
14,895
9,984
136,167
4,800
504
62,646
2,041
6,516
20,562
15,000
118
2,852
10,992
2,557
467
4,989
44,645
67,696
15,550
115,191
100,000
$ 1,453,248
503,283
71,772
73,096
242,917
163,000
111,479
39,467
125,374
(60,668)
(73,778)
84,610
39,467
28,136
367,914
37,652
150,000
I, 157,857
(138,312)
(1,720)
(1,138,231~
~5,081)
1,425,805
100,000
50,000
1,356
25,543
8,950
503,283
544,119
48,860
9,997
7,533
19,378
5,061
10,170
3,510,783
10,170
96,019
(2,20 I ,688)
1,329,786
4,925,622
1,283,596
$ 2,723,934
$ 2,613,382
2,733,800
741,156
298,261
160,666
8,500
579,778
14,895
9,984
136,167
6,156
504
62,646
2,041
6,516
20,562
15,000
25,661
2,852
10,992
2,557
467
4,989
53,595
67,696
15,550
115,191
503,283
544,119
48,860
9,997
7,533
19,378
5,061
3,414,764
Total
(5,081)
100,000
867,534
$
862,453
5
$
(776,983)
155,573
7,232,325
255,573
$ 6,455,342
STATEMENT OF CASH FLOWS
Year Ended January 31,2016
CASH FLOWS FROM OPERATING ACTIVITIES:
(Decrease) in Net Assets
Adjustments to reconcile decrease in Net Assets to Net Cash
Used by operating activities:
Depreciation
Unrealized Losses in ELCA Endowment Fund Investments
Unrealized Losses on Thrivent Mutual Fund Investments
ELCA Endowment Fund Dividends Reinvested
Thrivent Mutual Fund Dividends Reinvested
(Increase) Decrease in Prepaid Expense
(Increase) Decrease in Notes Receivable
Increase (Decrease) in Accounts Payable
$
(776,985)
67,696
62,001
73,778
(11,133)
(30,359)
12,083
5,500
23,974
$
203,540
Total Adjustments
(573,445)
Net Cash (Used) by Operating Activities
CASH FLOWS FROM INVESTING ACTIVITIES:
Interest Income Invested in Mission Certificates
Sale of La Mirada Church Property
Investments in Thrivent Mutual Funds
Investments in ELCA Endowment Fund
(60,084)
2,100,000
(898,000)
(400,000)
741,916
Net Cash Provided by Investing Activities
CASH FLOWS FROM FINANCING ACTIVITIES:
Payments on Automobile Loan
Capital Expenditures:
Purchases ofEquipment
(6,757)
(5,354)
(12,111)
Net Cash (Used) by Financing Activities
INCREASE (DECREASE) IN CASH
156,360
CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS- Beginning of year
196,091
CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS- End of year
SUPPLEMENTAL DISCLOSURE OF CASH FLOWS INFORMATION:
Cash paid during the year for interest expense
6
$
352,451
$
467
January 31, 20 I 6
NOTE A- NATURE OF ORGANIZATION AND SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES
Nature of Organization
Pacifica Synod of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America (Synod) was incorporated as a not-for-profit
organization in July 1986. The Synod is affiliated with the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America (ELCA)
and is responsible for the oversight and the life and mission of the ELCA in the counties oflmperial, Orange,
Riverside, San Bernardino, and San Diego in the state of California, and in the state of Hawaii. The Synod is
supported primarily through contributions received from member congregations.
Significant Accounting Policies
Basis of Accounting
The financial statements of the Synod have been prepared on the accrual basis of accounting and accordingly
reflect all significant receivables, payables, and other liabilities. The preparation of financial statements in
conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America requires
management to make estimates and assumptions that affect certain reported amounts and disclosures.
Accordingly, actual results could differ from those estimates.
Financial Statement Presentation
Financial statement presentation follows the recommendations of the Financial Accounting Standards Board in
FASB ASC 958. Accordingly, the net assets ofthe Synod and changes therein are classified and reported as
follows:
Unrestricted net assets include all resources which are not subject to donor-imposed restrictions of a more
specific nature than those which only obligate the Synod to utilize funds in furtherance of its mission.
Designated funds are those which Synod Council, rather than the donor, has determined are to be retained for
specific purposes. Synod Council has the right to decide at any time to spend the principal of these funds.
Since the restrictions are not donor-imposed, designated funds are classified as a portion of unrestricted net
assets.
Temporarily restricted net assets carry specific, donor-imposed restrictions on the expenditure or other use of
contributed funds. Temporary restrictions may expire either because certain actions are taken by the Synod
which fulfill the restrictions or because of the passage of time.
Permanently restricted net assets are those that are subject to donor-imposed restrictions which never lapse,
thus requiring that the funds be permanently retained. The donors of these funds permit the Synod to use all or
part of the income earned on related investments for designated purposes.
Donated Services
The Synod receives services donated by individuals involved in the Synod's missions. The services provided
generally involve the contribution of time to various Synod committees. No amounts for contributed services
have been reflected in the financial statements since the services do not meet accounting standards for
recognition. The criteria require that donated services create or enhance financial assets, require specialized
skills which would be purchased if not donated and have an objective basis for measurement.
7
January 31,2016
Significant Accounting Policies (Continued)
Leases are evaluated and classified as capital or operating in accordance with generally accepted accounting
principles.
Income Taxes
The Synod is included in a group ruling issued by IRS to the ELCA and therefore is exempt from Federal
income taxes under Section 50l(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code.
Cash and Cash Equivalents
Cash consists of checking and savings deposits with banks.
Investments and Credit Risks
Investments consist primarily of funds invested with Mission Investment Fund ofthe Evangelical Lutheran
Church in America, the ELCA Endowment Fund Pooled Trust, and Thrivent Financial Mutual Funds.
Investments in the Mission Investment Fund of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America are similar in
character to savings accounts and certificates of deposits and are stated at cost. The Mission Plus and Mission
Certificates held with Mission Investment Fund of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America are not
protected by FDIC. Investments in the ELCA Endowment Fund are stated at fair value based on amounts
reported to the Synod by the management of the Fund. Realized and unrealized gains and losses are reflected
in the statement of activities. Investments in the Thrivent Financial Mutual Funds are stated at fair value based
upon quoted prices ofthe mutual funds in an active market. Realized and unrealized gains and losses are
reflected in the statement of activities.
Disclosures About Fair Value of Assets and Liabilities
The Synod has adopted FASB ASC 820-10, "Fair Value Measurements", which defines fair value, establishes
a framework of measuring fair value, and expands disclosures about fair value measurements.
FASB ASC 820-10 defines fair value as the price that would be received upon sale of an asset or paid to
transfer a liability in an orderly transaction between market participants at the measurement date. FASB ASC
820-10 also establishes a fair value hierarchy, which requires the Synod to maximize the use of observable
inputs and minimize the use of unobservable inputs, when measuring fair value. The standard describes three
levels of inputs that may be used to measure fair value:
Level 1
Quoted prices in active markets for identical assets or liabilities.
Level2
Observable inputs other than Level 1 prices, such as quoted prices for similar assets or
liabilities; quoted prices in markets that are not active; or other inputs that are
observable or can be corroborated by observable market data for substantially the full
term of the assets or liabilities.
Level3
Unobservable inputs that are supported by little or no market activity and that are
significant to the fair value of the assets or liabilities.
8
January 31,2016
Disclosures About Fair Value of Assets and Liabilities (Continued)
The following is a description of the valuation methodologies used for instruments measured at fair value on a
recurring basis and recognized in the accompanying statement of financial position, as well as the general
classification of such instruments pursuant to the valuation hierarchy.
Cash and Cash Equivalents - The carrying amount approximates fair value.
Investments - Where quoted market prices are available in an active market, securities are classified within
Level 1 of the valuation hierarchy. Level 1 investments can include investments in mutual funds. If quoted
market prices are not available, then fair values are estimated by using pricing models, quoted prices of
securities with similar characteristics, or discounted cash flows (Level 2). Where Level 1 and Level 2 inputs
are not available, investments are classified within Level 3 hierarchy. Because market activity for the ELCA
Endowment Fund investment is not active, the Synod's investment in the Fund is classified as Level3.
Investments in MIF Term Certificates are also classified as Level 3.
MIF Term Certificates
ELCA Endowment Fund
Thrivent Financial Mutual Funds
Fair Value Measurements Using
Level2
Level 1
Fair Value
$1,755,791
772,237
854,580
$3.332.608
$
$
Leve13
$1,755,791
722,237
854,580
$ 854.580
$===
$2.478.028
Assets measured at fair value on a recurring basis using significant unobservable inputs (Level 3):
MIF T-CD's
$1,695,707
January31,2015
Investment
Interest earned
Dividends reinvested
Unrealized (loss) in value
Withdrawals
January 31,2016
ELCA End Fund
$ 373,102
400,000
60,084
11,135
(62,000)
$1.755.791
$ 722.237
Property and Equipment
Acquisitions of property and equipment in excess of $1,000 are capitalized. Property and equipment are
carried at cost or, if donated, at the approximately fair value at the date of donation.
The Synod depreciates assets using the straight-line method over the useful lives of the assets of 5, 7 and 39
years.
Subsequent Events
Subsequent events have been evaluated through April I, 2016, which is the date the financial statements were
available to be used.
9
January 31, 2016
Functional Allocation of Expenses
The Synod has chosen to present its operating expenses in natural expense classifications in its Statement of
Activities. The costs of providing various programs and other activities have been presented on a functional
basis at Note M, where expenses have been allocated among the programs and supporting services benefited.
NOTE B- UNRESTRICTED NET ASSETS
Unrestricted net assets consist of the following as of January 31, 2016:
$( 72,492)
2,796.427
$2.723.934
Operating Fund Balance (Deficit)
Property Fund
Total Unrestricted Net Assets
NOTE C- DESIGNATED FUNDS NET ASSETS
Designated net assets consist of the following as of January 31, 2016:
Assembly Fund Carryover
Multi Synodical Candidacy Carryover
Continuing Education - Synod Clergy and Staff
Sabbatical Support Reserve
Latina/Hispanic Ministry
LCC Sales Proceeds Funds
New Mission Starts
Ethnic Ministries
Transformational/Redevelopment
Synodical Administration
Outreach
New Miss ion Development Endowment Fund
Facilities Renewal Fund
Bishop's Transition Fund
Total Designated Net Assets
$
9,825
2,473
6,487
6,000
400,084
311,247
4,640
35,349
332,086
12,056
235,483
18,134
148,542
1.090,976
$2.613.382
NOTED-TEMPORARILY RESTRICTED ASSETS
Temporarily restricted net assets consist of the following as of January 31, 2016:
First Call Theological Education
Professional Leader's Conference
FHFO - Mise Pending
Pre Retirement Seminar
Companion Synod Program
Synod Youth Team/L YO Events
Intentional Interim Ministry Scholarship
Financial Workshops
R.L. Miller Scholarship Fund
10
$
(
14,007
925)
105
1,274
477
84
204
656
19,219
January31,2016
NOTE D- TEMPORARILY RESTRICTED ASSETS (Continued)
Oxford Back/Psych Eval
New Mission Dev End Fund
Endowment Training Grant
Professional Ethics & Boundaries Workshop
ILERT
Bishop's Discretionary Fund
Communicator's Conference 2004
4S Ranch Mission Start, SD
Emergency
Grant Writing Conference
Raincross Mission Commitment
Christian Education Multicultural
4S Ranch General
Oromo Ethiopian SAWC
Thai Christian Fellowship
B2B2B Fund
B2B2B Ethiopia Tithe
Multicultural Ministry Admin
Book of Faith
Director of Evangelical Mission
Assembly Offering 2010
Coaching Ministry
Malaria Pilot Synod Stipend
EQ-HR Workshop- March 2012
Pacifica Good Samaritan Fund
The Table/South OC New Start
Macedonia Project
Bldg Cap for Sustain Ministry
Asian Ministry Coordinator
Portico 1% Wellness Award
Youth Leadership Training Event
"Beyond Cranberry" Worship Event
Prayer Books/Wounded Warriors
Good Samaritan School, Borneo
ELCA Worship Jubilee Grant
Youth Ministry Training Event
International Camp Program
Palm Springs Mission Start
Warner Trust Interest Income
Total Temporarily Restricted Net Assets
11
119
10,500
5,607
2,735
1,096
140
160
550
1,700
7,230
1,300
190
5,141
1,862
1,566
135
571
503
2,306
1,310
5,101
4,600
I ,401
6,403
1,141
1,956
1,930
100
58,971
( 2,099)
9,669
3,383
27,850
604
1,000
( 464)
200
141
497
2,144
50,000
5,091
603,012
$ 862.453
January 31, 20 16
NOTE E- PERMANENTLY RESTRICTED NET ASSETS
Permanently restricted net assets represent the principal balance of the Warner Trust Fund and the Mathew 25
Fund, as follows:
$ 155,573
100.000
$255.573
Warner Trust Fund
Matthew 25 Fund
In 1990 and 1994, Pacifica Synod received a bequest of$155,573 from the estate of Charles and Mabel
Warner. In accordance with the provisions of the bequest, Synod Council placed the corpus of the trust in a
Mission Certificate Account, and income from the trust is used to fund grants to specific programs and
ministries of the Synod, and institutions and agencies affiliated with the ELCA.
In December 2015, Pacifica Synod received a gift of $100,000. Pursuant to the terms of the gift, the funds
have been placed in a permanently restricted fund called "Matthew 25 Fund". The gift has been invested in
the ELCA Endowment Pooled Fund. The income of the fund is to be used to maintain congregational
outreach and unity in the spirit ofMattthew 25:35-40.
NOTE F- UNRESTRICTED NET ASSETS- OPERATING FUND SUMMARY
The following summarizes the activity in the Operating Fund during the year ended January 31, 2016:
Operating Fund (Deficit), January 31, 2015
Support and Revenues
Transfers from Designated Funds
Net Assets Released from Temporary Restrictions
Expenses
Depreciation - Property Fund Expense
Transfers to Property Fund
Operating Fund (Deficit), January 31, 2016
$ ( 62,130)
1,648,286
140,032
1,138,231
(2,857,102)
67,698
( 12,111)
$ ( 72.492)
NOTE G- UNRESTRICTED NET ASSETS- PROPERTY FUND SUMMARY
The Property Fund consisted of the following as of January 31,2016:
Assets
Automobile
Furniture and Fixtures
Office Equipment
Center for Mission and Learning
Land
Building
Furniture, Equipment and Other
$
40,777
3,800
28,259
Less: Accumulated Depreciation
Total Assets
1,236,905
1,930,264
411,412
3,651,417
( 835.186)
$2.816.231
Liabilities
Automobile Loan
Total Liabilities
$
$
Fund Balance
$2.796.426
12
19.805
19.805
January 31, 2016
NOTE H- DESIGN ATED NET ASSETS -ASSETS
LATINO/HISPANIC MINISTRY FUND
In 1991, St. Mary Lutheran Church, San Diego was closed and sold. In 1993 the property of United Lutheran
Church, Santa Ana was sold. The proceeds of these sales were turned over to Pacifica Synod. Through
January 31, 2005, the sales proceeds of these churches were managed in two separate funds, the St. Mary's
San Diego Hispanic Ministry Fund, and the Santa Ana Hispanic Ministry Fund. The March 2005 Council
voted to merge the two funds to serve Latina/Hispanic Ministries throughout the Pacifica Synod area. The
following summarizes the activity in the fund during the year:
Fund Balance, January 31, 2015
Investment Income (net)
St. Marks and CCLM Funding
$404,749
1,835
( 6,500)
$400.084
LUTHERAN CHURCH OF THE CROSS ("LCC"), RIVERSIDE- SALES PROCEEDS
Lutheran Church of the Cross, Riverside closed in 2003, and the church property was sold in April 2006.
Pursuant to a plan adopted at the March 2006 Synod Council meeting, the proceeds of sale, net of the prior
deficit incurred in maintaining the property, were placed in designated funds for various specified purposes.
The following summarizes the balances ofthe funds at January 31, 2016:
New Mission Starts
Ethnic Ministries
Transformational/Redevelopment
Synodical Administration
Outreach
New Mission Development Endowment Fund
Total
$ 311,247
4,640
35,349
332,086
12,056
235.483
$ 930.861
The following summarizes the activity in the Funds during the year ended January 31, 2016:
Funds Balance, January 31, 2015
Reimbursement of La Mirada Property Legal Fees
Interest- La Mirada Property Loan
Investment Income
Legal Fees and Expenses- Prince of Peace, Ontario
Staff Support
Shared Ministry Funding
Other Expenses
Funds Balance, January 31,2016
$ 816,652
367,914
37,652
17,460
( 25,543)
( 100,000)
( 181,812)
(
1,462)
$ 930.861
The reader is referred to Note C for more information regarding designated net assets.
13
January 31, 2016
NOTE I-TEMPORARILY RESTRICTED ASSETS
CATHRYN W. WRIGHT BEQUEST
In 2002 the Synod received a bequest from Cathryn W. Wright in the amount of $590,000. Additional
amounts which total $45,755 have been subsequently contributed. Consistent with Mrs. Wright's direction that
the bequest be used for caring lay ministries, the Synod Council has committed the funds to Lay Ministry
Training. The following summarizes the activity in the fund during the year:
Investment Income
Perm Restricted Temp Restricted
Principal
Total
Interest
$561,180
$ 590,303
$ 29,123
22,706
22,706
( 9,997)
( 9,997)
$ 561.180
$603.012
$41.832
NOTE J- AUTOMOBILE LOAN
In October 2013, The Synod borrowed $40,802 from America's Christian Credit Union for the purchase of an
automobile. The terms ofthe loan call for monthly payments of$602 and interest at an annual interest rate of
1.990%. In November 2013, the Synod paid down the loan by $6,000, which was the proceeds from sale of
the Synod's previously owned automobile. Principal payments on the note are due as follows:
Amount
6,893
7,031
5,881
$19.805
Year Ending
January 31,2017
January 31,2018
January 31,2019
Total
NOTE K- BORROWINGS BETWEEN OPERATING FUND, DESIGNATED FUNDS, AND
TEMPORARILY RESTRICTED FUNDS
At January 31, 2016, Temporarily Restricted Net Assets has a receivable of $83,309 for amounts advanced on
behalf of the operating fund and the Designated Funds.
NOTE L- SYNOD OWNED CHURCH PROPERTY- PRINCE OF PEACE, LA MIRADA
In 2012, Prince of Peace, La Mirada was disbanded, and ownership ofthe church property was disputed by the
congregation. A settlement was executed on December 3, 2013, a Quitclaim Deed which transferred
ownership of the property to the Synod was executed on December 4, 2013 and the settlement was approved
by California Superior Court on February 6, 2014, pursuant to which the Synod took ownership of the church
property. In the settlement with Prince of Peace, La Mirada, the Synod also received the sum of $30,000
agreed as the congregation's cash assets when disbanded. On Apri110, 2015 the property was sold for a sales
price of $2,100,000. After commissions and other closing costs, the Synod received net sales proceeds of
$1,988,408
14
January 31,2016
NOTE L- SYNOD OWNED CHURCH PROPERTY- PRINCE OF PEACE, LA MIRADA (Continued)
As directed by Synod Council, the sales proceeds and cash received from the disbanded congregation were
used as follows:
Tithe paid to ELCA
Transfer to Synodical Administration Fund
Repayment of Legal Fees Advanced
Interest
Transfer to Bishop Transition Fund
Transfer to Mission Fund 2015
Property Operating Expenses (net of Income)
$ 298,261
367,914
37,652
150,000
1,157,857
6,724
$2.018.408
NOTE M- FUNCTIONAL PRESENTATION OF EXPENSES
The Synod has chosen to present its expenses in natural expense classifications in its Statement of Activities.
The following presents its expenses on a Functional Basis.
General Administration
Shipping and Postage
Office Supplies
Hospitality
Contract Services
Audit
Legal
Insurance
Office Expenses
Interest
Equipment
Occupancy
Depreciation
$
2,041
6,516
2,852
20,562
15,000
25,661
10,992
2,557
467
4,989
53,596
67,696
$212.929
Personnel
Salaries and Housing Allowance
Pensions, Medical and Disability
Social Security
Continuing Education
Workers Compensation
Professional Expenses
Total
$579,778
136,167
14,895
6,156
9,984
504
$747.484
Leadership, Support, and Program
Region II Support
Ministry Teams
Travel
Total
$
8,500
15,550
9,997
62,646
$ 96.693
15
January31,2016
NOTE M- FUNCTIONAL PRESENTATION OF EXPENSES (Continued)
Other Program Services
Financial Support to ELCA
Tithe to ELCA - La Mirada Property Sale
Planning Giving
Grants
Financial Support - Designated Gifts
Grants
Conferences and Other
Other Programs
Total
$741,156
298,261
110,666
50,000
503,283
7,533
48,860
24.439
$1.784.198
NOTE N- RETIREMENT PLAN
The Synod participates in a defined contribution retirement plan with Portico Benefit Services, formerly the
Board of Pensions ofthe ELCA. The plan covers substantially all employees, and contributions are
immediately fully vested and funded. The Synod's total contribution to the plan was $68,274 for the year
ended January 31, 2016.
NOTE 0- COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES
The Synod has entered into a 60 month lease for a Ricoh Aficio multifunction copier. The lease calls for
monthly payments of $268 and runs through August 2017. Since this lease is accounted for as an operating
lease, payments on the lease which total $3,215 were expensed in the year ended January 31, 2016. The
Synod's future obligations under the lease are as follows:
Year Ending
January 31, 2017
January 31, 20 18
Total
Amount
$ 3,215
1,876
$ 5.091
16
NOMINATIONS FOR SYNOD COUNCIL POSITIONS
Nominations can be made from the floor by obtaining a form from the Information Table located
in the foyer. Ten voting members’ signatures are required for an individual to be nominated. If
you are making a nomination for a conference position, the 10 signatures must be from that
conference. Nominations are valid only if prior to the nominations being closed, the nominee
has, either directly or indirectly, indicated her/his willingness to serve if elected.
NOTE: Floor nominations must be turned in by 5 p.m. Thursday, May 5.
* Incumbent
VICE PRESIDENT
Ms. Lori Herman
SECRETARY
Ms. Angela (Gangstad) Jackson*
Ms. Judy Franz
LAY AT LARGE, Male
Mr. Paul Coulter*
Mr. Darrel Timan
LAY AT LARGE, Female
Dr. Ann Dew
Ms. Jan Neuhaus
SONSHINE CONFERENCE #1, Clergy
The Rev. Laurie Line
HARVEST CONFERENCE #3, Lay
Ms. Becky Draper
REJOICE CONFERENCE #9, Lay
Ms. Greta Goellrich
4-1
CANDIDATE FOR VICE PRESIDENT (4-year term)
Vice President
Name:
Congregation:
Present Employment:
Ms. Lori Herman
St. Andrew, San Diego
RN, UC San Diego Medical Center
Three Gifts You Offer to this Position:
 Service - I have served our congregation in many roles, including
past Council President and currently Youth Liaison. While president,
we embarked on a building campaign, constructing a new Community Center - not a mere
building, but a place for worship, service to others and community. I’ve been a youth sponsor
for the last seven years, serving high school youth on summer trips and throughout the year.
With all I learn from being with them, I am actually the one being served.
 Discernment - I believe I have been given the gift of listening to differing opinions in order
that I might better understand people and situations thoughtfully and clearly. I am not afraid
to ask questions if I don’t understand, nor am I afraid to share my thoughts. I am always
listening, hoping to hear what God is calling us to do.
 Not afraid to change – We are living in a time of exponential change, and we, as a church of
God’s people, need to consider new ways of being relevant to all of God’s people without
forgetting our roots and traditions. I am open to this discovery.
4-2
CANDIDATES FOR SECRETARY (4-year term)
Secretary
Name:
Congregation:
Present Employment:
Ms. Angela (Gangstad) Jackson
Clairemont Lutheran Church/Iglesia
Luterana Clairemont
Ministry Assistant for Administration,
Clairemont Lutheran Church
 I have been in some form of secretarial work for the past 20+ years. I am very organized and
work with others to problem solve on a daily basis. I am used to working with pastors and lay
persons for the greater good of the church as a whole.
 I currently serve on the Synod Council so I am aware of the time commitment that will be
required.
 I have been a member of Clairemont Lutheran Church for 30+ years and have been active in
varying ways over these many years. I came to the church as an 8th grader looking to find a
place where I could find God. I have stayed at CLC/ILC because I am privileged to see God
in different ways almost every single day since I now am serving as the church “secretary”. I
am encouraged by the ELCA and all that we are trying to do in the world, as well as in our
own neighborhoods. Things are changing as to how church is looked at and I feel that I can
help be a part of that change yet still stay true to what we believe as Lutherans.
Secretary
Name:
Congregation:
Present Employment:
Ms. Judith A. Franz
Christ, San Clemente
communications/public information
positions with schools & cities, retired
 I have a heart for service and a desire to strengthen ELCA-Synod-Congregation relations.
 25 years’ experience as a leader in two Pacifica Synod congregations (through thick and
thin).
 I have been blessed by God with strong communications, writing and interpersonal skills that
I pray can be put to good use on Synod Council.
4-3
CANDIDATES FOR LAY AT LARGE, Male (3-year term)
Lay at Large, male
Name:
Congregation:
Present Employment:
Mr. Paul Coulter
Lutheran Church of the Resurrection,
Huntington Bch.
Semi-Retired
 Demonstrated leadership serving in several key congregationally-elected positions: two terms
church council; Mission Endowment Fund board chairperson and vice-chairperson. Also at
different times served as chairs of preschool director search committee, staff support, and
stewardship committee.
 Developed ability to work as a positive force in diverse groups within the congregation on
collaborative efforts affecting different ministries such as youth, young adult and global
missions. Participated in Pacifica’s Mission to Borneo in 2014 with companion synod, Basel
Christian Church of Malaysia, and Asian Lutheran International Conference (ALIC) in Kuala
Lumpur, Malaysia, in 2015.
 Bring wide perspectives and insights into current issues facing the ELCA by having
successful careers in both public education as a teacher and as a manager in the commercial
real estate industry. Extensively traveled internationally, experiencing a wide range of
diverse cultures and religions.
Lay at Large, male
Name:
Congregation:
Present Employment:
Mr. Darrel Timan
Carlton Hills, Santee
Zone Asset Protection Manager,
7-Eleven INC.
 Patience – I have served in Several Church positions in the past including 4 terms as
Congregation President, and head of the School Board and Call Committee. In work I have to
fully evaluate difficult situations and then make what can be difficult decisions but hopefully
the right decision for each situation.
 Caring – I care about all people and feel that they need a voice and to be included. I have
been a Scout Leader for 38 years and my Troop is successful because I try to involve those
that want to be involved. This often means creating positions especially for youth, but their
participation is vital for continued growth and success.
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 Balanced – I know that I myself need to be prepared and organized to be successful and that I
have to allow others to do their part. My family and my church often come before work. I
also find time for Scouts, camping and daily exercise so as to not get burned out.
CANDIDATES FOR LAY AT LARGE, female (3-year term)
Lay at Large, female
Name:
Congregation:
Present Employment:
Ms. Ann Dew
Hope Lutheran Church, Palm Desert
Physician/HIV Specialist, Riverside
County Early Intervention Services
 My acquaintance with the demands of ministry and the role of the
church today as the widow of a pastor. I do not claim expertise, just interest in how the
Word of the Lord and his love can be further spread in our communities as diverse as they
are.
 I have been given the gift of ministry through healing. I have found that science is not
enough. There must be caring and compassion as well as I am reminded daily when I do my
work. When I was sixteen and in my first job as a nurse's aide, the nun who trained me
reminded me: "We can't always cure, but, we can heal." I have taken that to heart.
 I have several years’ experience as a Board Member. I have been with the Regional Access
Foundation Project since 1994 and on the board for several years. We provide grants in the
areas of Health, Juvenile Intervention and Mental Health. We also work to combat hunger in
our valley and provide technical assistance to non-profit organizations. I was also a member
of the Board for the Central City Lutheran Mission. I am diligent in preparing for board
meetings and am open minded. I sometimes think outside the box and tend to share these
thoughts in the appropriate context.
Lay at Large, female
Name:
Ms. Jan Neuhaus
Congregation:
First Lutheran Church, San Diego
Present Employment:
Retired Music Minister and Special
Education Instructor Assistant
 Experience: I’ve served as a member of several councils and boards
in my community, including the council for SDSU Lutheran/Episcopal Campus Ministry
(Agape House), even serving as chair of some of those councils; served as music minister at
Carlton Hills Evangelical Lutheran in Santee and College Lutheran in San Diego; was a
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member of the Pacifica Synod Council from 8/2008 to 5/2014 (and yes, I would like to serve
again!); finished a vacated position on executive council of Pacifica Synod.
 Diplomacy: Listening and hearing all points of view are important to making informed and
responsible decisions. I look for and strive for the “both/and” resolution whenever possible,
thinking of all possibilities to do the work of the church as Christ led us to do.
 Dependability: It may take me some time to get something completed, but I will get it done!
I say what I mean and do what I say. As a lifelong Lutheran I love my church and would like
to serve in this capacity to continue the work of Christ in this corner of God’s creation. I
would consider it an honor and privilege to serve.
CANDIDATE FOR SONSHINE CONFERENCE #1, clergy (1-year remainder of term)
Conference #1 Clergy
Name:
Congregation:
Conference:
Present Employment:
The Rev. Laurie Line
Shepherd of the Valley, La Mesa
Sonshine #1
Pastor, on leave from call
 Mission Planning. I have been ordained since 2001 serving several congregations including
interims and as supply pastor. I have also served serving as the Dean of Sonshine
Conference.
 I am a good listener and can hear both sides of an issue, hoping for a consensus.
 Sonshine conference has a varied of socio-economical group of people who work together,
lay and clergy.
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CANDIDATES FOR HARVEST CONFERENCE #3, lay (3-year term)
Conference #3 Lay
Name:
Congregation:
Conference:
Present Employment:
Ms. Becky Draper
Incarnation, Poway
Harvest #3
Registered Nurse
 I previously served a three year term on Synod Council which included a one year term on
Executive Committee. I enjoyed both tremendously and was very disappointed when I was
not elected to a second term. I enjoyed working with other all the members of Synod
Council. I work well in a group and have always had a gift of seeing both sides of an issue.
 I have been in leadership positions in my congregation. I served two terms on the church
council and was coordinator of the rotational winter shelter for a number of years.
 I am a lifelong Lutheran. I look forward to working with a new bishop and seeing where God
leads us.
CANDIDATES FOR REJOICE CONFERENCE #9, lay (1-year term remainder of term)
Conference #9 Lay
Name:
Congregation:
Conference:
Present Employment:
Ms. Greta Goellrich
St. Paul, Fullerton
Rejoice #9
La Habra City School District
 I am a go-getter and any task I am given I complete with 110% of my ability.
 I am outgoing and love talking to people and learning more about how to keep up with the
times.
 I am a seeker. I am always looking for ways to better myself and my settings. My setting can
include my job, my home, my church, etc.
4-7
4-8
“For God so loved the world that he gave his
only Son, so that everyone who believes in him
may not perish but may have eternal life.”
– John 3:16
Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ,
John 3:16, perhaps one of the most quoted passages in the New Testament, hangs on bed
sheets in football stadiums; it is almost ubiquitous. It is also true. If God so loves the world,
we should too. Lutherans show up – as Evangelical Lutheran Church in America (ELCA)
and as The Lutheran World Federation (LWF).
We are church for the sake of the world.
In our congregations we address hunger and poverty through food pantries and community
gardens, in health care clinics and job training programs. We foster unity among the
children of God in relationship with our ecumenical and inter-religious partners.
Together, with our companions in Central America, we are working with unaccompanied
minors and the conditions in their countries of origin that force these children to flee.
Through LWF, we support Syrian refugees in Jordan who are living in Za’atari camp,
provide education and child protection assistance to Sudanese refugees, and offer specialty
care at the Augusta Victoria Hospital for Palestinians.
We have surpassed our fundraising commitment to eradicate malaria and bring about lasting
change. Always Being Made New: The Campaign for the ELCA will emphasize ELCA
World Hunger this year to support our comprehensive approach to solve challenges that
perpetuate hunger and poverty. All of this good and hard, sometimes dangerous, work is the
work we are able to do because we are church abiding in Christ – God’s beloved people
gathered around word and sacrament.
In preparation for the 500th anniversary observance of the Reformation, I encourage you to
visit ELCA500.org for more information and resources. One of the featured events for the
500th anniversary is the Grace Gathering in conjunction with the 2016 ELCA Churchwide
Assembly. Come experience a churchwide assembly, be centered in God’s word, participate
in experiential learning, hear Nobel Peace Prize winner Leymah Gbowee, attend workshops
to equip you in observing the 500th anniversary in your local ministry setting and much
more! You can register today at ELCA.org/GraceGathering.
On Sept. 11, our country will be remembering the lives lost and the lives forever changed by
the tragic events 15 years ago. The events affected all of us, and it will be an important
moment for us to be together as a church and with all people of faith. Part of our “God’s work.
Our hands.” Sunday on Sept. 11 is a chance for us to show up as Lutherans, freed and
renewed in Christ, to serve and love our neighbor.
8765 West Higgins Road • Chicago, Illinois 60631-4101 • 773-380-2700 or 800-638-3522 • ELCA.org • LivingLutheran.com
As we gather in our assemblies, let us be a faithful witness to God’s work in our local
communities, across the country and around the world. I am hopeful that our time together
in assembly will be an opportunity for us to get to know each other and come together as a
church. This is a good time for us to talk about the priorities and future directions of the
ELCA.
I will be leading a process endorsed by the ELCA Church Council and the Conference of
Bishops to discern in faith the future of the ELCA. Through an initiative titled Called
Forward Together in Christ, we’ll be assessing where we are as God’s people and
working to understand what God has in store for us. I am inviting you to take part in a
conversation about the future of this church. For more information or to get involved,
visit ELCA.org/future.
Thank you for your continued prayers and encouragement. As I am out and about in my travels,
I am reminded that no one of us does God’s work alone, and I am grateful for the opportunity
to be a partner with you in that service. Thank you for your leadership in the Evangelical
Lutheran Church in America.
God’s blessings to you as you gather as the living body of Christ. May you be guided by
the Spirit as you do God’s will for God’s people.
With gratitude,
Elizabeth A. Eaton
Presiding Bishop
Evangelical Lutheran Church in America
5- 2
Report of the Bishop
Pacifica Synod of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America (ELCA)
Pacifica Synod Assembly 2016
Called for Such a Time as This
Grace to you and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ. 3I thank my God every time I
remember you, 4constantly praying with joy in every one of my prayers for all of you, 5because of your
sharing in the gospel from the first day until now. 6I am confident of this, that the one who began a good
work among you will bring it to completion by the day of Jesus Christ.
Philippians1:2-6
2
For many years, I have written the people of Pacifica a comprehensive report at synod assembly time
that both reflected upon the past year and projected what I believed was necessary for us to move
forward as the Pacifica Synod of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America. For this, my last report
as bishop, I am going to offer the readers a narrative of this synod, from my perspective, as I have
been privileged to serve in four different capacities within this synod … Conference Dean, Assistant
to the Bishop, Bishop and Director for Evangelical Mission (for 3 years while serving as Bishop). I
offer five chapters of Pacifica’s 28-year history divided in the following way:





1987-1993
1993-1998
1998-2004
2004-2010
2010-2016
The First Five+ Years of Pacifica from a Conference Dean’s Perspective.
The Second Five+ Years as Assistant to the Bishop.
The First Six-Year Term of the Second Bishop of the Pacifica Synod.
The Second Six-Year Term of the Second Bishop of Pacifica.
The Third Six-Year Term of the Second Bishop and Director for Evangelical
Mission (DEM), Almost Completed.
While much more detailed information with dates, names and specifics could be gleaned from the
archives, files and records of this synod, this is intended as a much shorter overview of the first 28
years of the Pacifica Synod from one person’s perspective and memory. The details in this narrative
are listed in approximate chronological order. At the end of this narrative, I will add a few personal
notes and words to this synod in which I have had the privilege of serving in four different capacities
for its entire history. (If you decide to pass over the historical chapters below, please turn to the “A
Few Final Words” on page 5-13.)
1987-1993
The First Five+ Years of this Synod from a Conference Dean’s Perspective
As the new church was being born by the coming together of the Lutheran Church in America (LCA),
the American Lutheran Church (ALC), and the Association of Evangelical Lutheran Churches (AELC),
the transition team that envisioned what became the Pacifica Synod created a new and unique
judicatory where one had not been before. The territories of the State of Hawaii and the five
southernmost counties of California had previously been small parts of the huge districts or synods
of the three predecessor church bodies. The new church, the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America
(ELCA), had decided it would be better to have more synods and bishops serving smaller
geographical areas. The territory that would become the most southern and western part of the ELCA
was named the Southern California (East)/Hawaii Synod of the ELCA. Within a few years, the name of
the synod was changed by synod assembly action to the “Pacifica Synod-ELCA.”
The Rev. Robert L. Miller, pastor of First Lutheran in Fullerton, was elected as the first bishop of this
synod in a constituting convention in 1987. Delegates at that convention came together in San Diego
from the three predecessor church bodies. Thereafter, the annual gatherings within the ELCA synods
would be called Synod Assemblies and the attendees called voting members. In a close election
process, with strong candidates from the various predecessor church bodies, the Rev. Robert L.
5- 3
Miller was elected on the fifth ballot in the convention by a margin of 3 votes. He was installed by
Presiding Bishop Herbert Chilstrom at the Roman Catholic Basilica at Mission San Juan Capistrano.
Over the next months, it became his responsibility to find a location for the synod office, gather
together a team that would become the synod’s staff, and lead pastors and lay members from three
different ecclesiastical traditions into one unified church body. One of the added blessings and
challenges of that task was to unite this new synod with congregations and people in two states that
were more than 2500 miles apart.
A few congregations along the border of our synod and our neighboring synod, Southern California
(West), now known as Southwest California Synod, were given the choice of identifying with
whichever synod they believed they had the greatest affinity. Those congregational decisions brought
several congregations from Los Angeles County into this synod. The first vice president of this synod
was Mr. Samuel Giesy who served two terms. The Synod Office was established in an industrial park
complex in Yorba Linda, very near the 91 freeway.
The new synodical leadership … bishop, staff and council … crafted the governing documents. The
first constitution and its bylaws defined and divided this synod into four large geographic
conferences. The Orange County/Whittier Conference had 46 congregations in all of Orange County
and a small part of Los Angeles County. The San Diego/Imperial Conference had 36 congregations in
those two counties. The Inland Empire Conference had 35 congregations in San Bernardino and
Riverside Counties. The State of Hawaii Conference had twelve congregations on four of the Hawaiian
Islands. Bishop Miller chose four deans to be an extension of his office to work with those four
conferences. Each conference had an appointed Dean, an elected Lay Chairperson, and a Conference
Cabinet of 6-10 people. It was an honor for me to be asked by Bishop Miller to serve as the Dean of
the Orange/Whittier Conference. At that time, I was the head of staff pastor of St. Olaf Lutheran
(Garden Grove) in central Orange County.
The first chapter of the Pacifica Synod concentrated on organizing a new synodical judicatory,
building relationships and creating unity with lay people, lay rostered leaders and the clergy who
came from three distinct Lutheran church bodies. We gathered the pastors together with some
frequency for worship, fellowship, learning and equipping events. The synod hosted training
seminars two or three times each year for congregational leaders. We focused on stewardship and
mission support and, during those early years, the 139 congregations of this synod generously
supported the work of the synod and the ELCA with well over $2,000,000 annually. We, in turn,
shared 55-57% of those mission support dollars with the churchwide expression (ELCA) and another
10% with various agencies and institutions in our territory or region, of which there were many. We
had a large number of clergy in active congregational ministry, in specialized and non-congregational
ministries, and a significant number of retired clergy as well. We also enjoyed the ministry of a
strong number of lay Associates in Ministry. After the ELCA created yet another professional roster of
trained leaders, we became the first ELCA synod to have Diaconal Ministers as the first two Diaconal
Ministers were consecrated in that ELCA lay roster in this synod. In synod assemblies during those
first years, the voting members were involved in processes that defined the priorities of the synod
and developed a mission statement. The four conferences were very active during these years. Not
only did the rostered leaders meet often, at least once a month and in some cases weekly, but the
laity gathered twice a year for conference assemblies where they conducted conference business,
enjoyed guest speakers, elected conference cabinets to work with the deans, and planned other
conference activities of outreach and mission. All of the congregations of the Pacifica Synod had at
least one full-time pastor in those early days of the Pacifica Synod. Some had as many as three fulltime along with one or more retired or part-time pastors. We normally had 6-10 seminary interns in
this synod. We were primarily a synod with all but a few of its congregations English-speaking and
filled with mostly Caucasian people. This synod began to expand its mission into the ethnic diversity
of Southern California and Hawaii with intentionality. A number of new ministries were begun as we
supported mission development within the Hispanic and Asian communities. In the early days
Bishop Miller surrounded himself with full-time and part-time synod staff members who were both
clergy and lay members of the synod. During his 11 years as bishop, he had a staff that grew to the
5- 4
equivalency of over 12 full-time positions. First elected to a four-year term, Bishop Miller was reelected to a second four-year term in 1991.
1993-1998
The Second Five+ Years from the Perspectve of an Assistant to the Bishop
After a few synod staff changes that occurred during the first five years, I was invited to join the staff
of Bishop Miller on February 1, 1993, as the Assistant to the Bishop for Ministry and Pastoral Care.
Over the next 5 ½ years, it was a privilege to be connected to the day-to-day work throughout the
Pacifica Synod. During this chapter of the history of this synod, with a significant number of larger,
multiple-staff congregations, the Pacifica Synod offered many specific events supporting the head of
staff pastors, the associate pastors, and all pastors in team ministry together. There were also
gatherings for solo clergy, as well as other events for all the rostered leaders together. The retired
clergy had their own meetings and retreats.
After a few years the four conferences and deans determined that the three territories in California
were too large for volunteer coverage. Each of those three large conferences divided into three
smaller conferences. Now there were ten conferences, ten deans and ten lay chairpersons. Over time,
the conferences varied in their structure with their lay chairpersons and conference cabinets. Some
continued to hold two annual conference assemblies, but not all. The annual Bishop’s Gathering each
fall became a major event that brought Bishop Miller and some of his staff into the conferences for
heart-to-heart conversations about mission support and partnership within the synod. The synod
launched a special appeal campaign called Go Therefore Now! It was a three-year project that was
staffed by one called specifically into that ministry.
In the early years of the ELCA, Diaconal Ministry became a fourth roster of the ELCA (along with
ordained pastors, deaconess, associates in ministry) and for a number of years, Pacifica had more
Diaconal Ministers than any other synod of the ELCA as a significant number of lay leaders embraced
this “Word and Service” ministry. We were assigned a Global Mission Companion Synod in Ethiopia,
but the face-to-face connection did not happen in the first years for a number of reasons. A “Study of
Ministry” process was initiated in every synod and the compilation of that huge undertaking gave
this church (ELCA) the guideline entitled “The Use of the Means of Grace,” a document that was
adopted at an ELCA Churchwide Assembly and is still the primary standard for the ELCA. To date it
has not been revised, but it has been reviewed and revisited on a number of occasions.
The ELCA was engaging in some challenging conversations early in its life as a new church and those
deliberations brought to the forefront a wide range of biblical and theological understandings along
with many personal opinions. The two most challenging conversations centered on full communion
partnerships with other Protestant and confessional faith communities and a faithful understanding
of human sexuality.
It was during this time that the ELCA developed the First Call Theological Education (FCTE) program
for all rostered leaders. FCTE is an ongoing program of mentoring, connecting and continuing
education for those in their first three years of rostered ministry. Before that program was
implemented, the Pacifica Synod was asked to be part of the visioning team and then we became a
pilot synod for this First Call Theological Education emphasis. By the time it was officially adopted at
a Churchwide Assembly, this synod already had the program fully in place.
In the early years there was always enough available dollars for our work together in the new
church. Our congregations carried into the ELCA their strong support for the synod and churchwide
expression. A fairly significant number of our large congregations were giving well over $100,000
each year. Pacifica was often seen as one of the most generous and financially stable synods of the
ELCA. During those years, the synods also received large grants from the ELCA to be used for
continuing education for rostered leaders. Thousands of dollars of “GEM Grants” were distributed for
a number of years within our synod to support continuing education and growth in evangelical
mission for rostered leaders. Pacifica voted to allow a bishop to serve as many as three terms (it had
been two). Bishop Miller was re-elected to a third term, which was now also a six-year term as the
5- 5
ELCA changed the length of the terms of synodical bishops to six years in the mid-1990s. Ms. Gwen
Byrd was elected as the second vice president of the Pacifica Synod.
It was in this chapter of the synod that five congregations in the Inland Empire worked together to
give birth to Central City Lutheran Mission (CCLM), re-occupying the property of First English
Lutheran Church in the heart of San Bernardino. A director/CEO/pastor was called, and
congregational support from throughout the synod was generously given. This new ministry actually
held two places within the roster of the ELCA. CCLM was a recognized affiliate of Lutheran Services
in America as a social ministry organization (SMO) and outreach into the community. It also became
a “forming congregation” as the staff conducted Word and Sacrament ministry on a weekly basis.
There were several congregational closings during this chapter of the synod’s ministry. Some, but not
all, were new start congregations that were never able to reach self-sustainability. Internal strife also
caused the demise of several new-start congregations. Never in favor of the merger of the new
church (ELCA), a congregation in San Diego left the ELCA to identify with another Lutheran church
body. In central Orange County, without any consultation with the Bishop, another congregation
closed. The remaining extended family sold the property and divided up the assets in a way that was
entirely in conflict with the congregation’s constitution. This unfortunate situation ended up in the
courts and by the time everything was settled, the synod was able to secure only 40% of the assets
which were placed in a still-existing mission endowment fund.
Two Full Communion decisions came before us and the Churchwide Assembly (CWA) in 1997. The
staff of the Pacifica Synod had invested itself, along with many others within the synod, in developing
relationships with the Presbyterian Church USA, the United Church of Christ, the Reformed Church in
America, and the Episcopal Church in preparation for the Formula of Agreement and the Concordat.
At the ELCA Churchwide Assembly, the Formula of Agreement with the three reformed churches was
adopted. However, the Concordat with the Episcopal Church failed by less than 10 votes (2/3
majority required for both agreements). We came home from that CWA with both joy and sadness as
we continued our good relationships with those from the four faith communions.
In the fall of 1997, Bishop Robert L. Miller, Pacifica’s first bishop, announced that he would be
retiring during the summer of 1998.
1998-2004
The First Six-Year Term of the Second Bishop of the Pacifica Synod
Along with all the normal business of a synod assembly, the mid-May Synod Assembly of the Pacifica
Synod was a time to bid Bishop Robert Miller and his spouse, Doris, Godspeed and thanksgiving.
Bishop Miller had served 11 years as the presiding officer of this synod. He and his spouse retired
and moved to Colorado, where they still live. Presiding Bishop H. George Anderson presided over the
election of the synod’s second bishop at the 1998 Synod Assembly.
It was both an affirming honor and a humbling moment when the voting members elected me as the
second bishop of the Pacifica Synod. The final vote was on the fifth ballot on a day I will never forget.
Already working in the office, I assumed the responsibilities of bishop-elect late in June when Bishop
Miller moved to Colorado. The six-year term officially began on August 1, 1998, and I was installed by
Presiding Bishop Anderson on August 2 of that year. We utilized the sanctuary of one our new full
communion partner congregations, St. Andrew Presbyterian Church in Newport Beach. All but one of
our synod staff members remained in the office during that transitional time. An interim Assistant to
the Bishop for Ministry and Pastoral Care worked part-time with us for six months until a more
permanent full time call was issued to a new assistant.
Among many other happenings, four significant events come to mind regarding the year 1999. Early
in that year, the Pacifica Synod made its first visit (8 persons) to our companion synod, the South
West Synod of the Ethiopian Evangelical Church Mekane Yesus (EECMY). It was a remarkable
journey to Addis Abba, Arba Minch, Lalibela and other places in Ethiopia.
5- 6
At the 1999 Synod Assembly, we adopted a resolution entitled “Jubilee 2000,” whereby the synod
assembly approved the raising of an over-and-above $1,000,000 to walk side-by-side with four
Pacifica Synod congregations that were struggling with huge loans from the Mission Investment Fund
(MIF). It is a long story about young congregations building their new complexes with substantial
loans when all the numbers were heading in the right direction. But economic downturns and
changes in leadership caused some congregations to get behind in their mortgages. The Pacifica
Synod voted to share their burden. Under the leadership of a special advisor, the Rev. Lyle Peterson,
the synod raised more than $938,000 during the fiscal year of 2000-2001, thus allowing all four
congregations to pay off their arrearages and refinance their loans with MIF. In that same fiscal year
we experienced one of the most generous outpourings of mission support dollars! It was an amazing
time of mutual support and care for one another! The Jubilee 2000 fundraising effort was so well
received, the 2001 Synod Assembly voted to begin another fund-raising campaign … this time a
three-year, one million dollar campaign for the seven congregations in Pacifica that had property but
not enough funding to start their first building programs. This effort was called “Open Hearts, Open
Hands.” For the next three years, the pre-identified seven congregations regularly received funds that
continued to come as gifts of grace from the generosity of their sisters and brothers in Christ.
The third notable event in 1999 was the passage at the ELCA Churchwide Assembly of Called to
Common Mission (CCM). This was a rewrite and a re-negotiation of terms and conditions of the
Concordat agreement with the Episcopal Church. With the changes made from the original proposal,
the full communion agreement of CCM was adopted in 1999, thus launching what has become our
most active full communion partnership with another faith community. In that same 1999 CWA, the
ELCA entered into a full communion agreement with the Moravian Church approving the guidelines
of Following Our Shepherd to Full Communion. This decision had very little impact on the synods in
the West since so few Moravian Churches exist in this part of the United States.
The fourth 1999 event was the approval of The Joint Declaration on the Doctrine of Justification, a
comprehensive agreement with the Roman Catholic Church and the Lutheran World Federation, of
which the ELCA was a full partner. On October 31, 1999, large numbers of Catholic and Lutheran
Christians in several Southern California locations gathered as parishioners, priests, pastors and
bishops for services of celebration and thanksgiving. Deep and lasting friendships between our two
church bodies developed and grew in the midst of those historic days.
In 2000, five members of Pacifica joined an Asian Ministry Tour, traveling to five different churches
within the Lutheran World Federation. We went to Hong Kong, Taiwan, West Malaysia, Singapore
and East Malaysia (Borneo). During those visitations, the Pacifica Synod began the conversation with
the Basel Christian Church of Malaysia, headquartered in Kota Kinabalu in the state of Sabah in East
Malaysia. That visit set the stage for that church to become our second companion synod.
The synod had expanded its staffing and office space during the time of the previous chapter of this
document. The leased space was small and becoming more and more expensive. Some staff shared a
single office space while others had a desk in a hallway. There was one meeting space that
accommodated only about 25 people. Without a kitchen, offering hospitality was difficult. Within a
few more years, we knew that we would have invested more than $1,000,000 in small, leased space,
so we began to talk about a new approach for a synod office. It was decided to relocate, to own rather
than lease, and to expand the capabilities and capacities within a new complex. The decision to move
forward with this plan was affirmed at a synod assembly and a long journey began that including
major fundraising, locating the right site and developing architectural drawings. It all began during
this chapter of our synod and it reached its completion in the next chapter.
Mr. Rod Anderson was elected as the third vice president of Pacifica. Some of the greatest expansion
of the Pacifica Synod during this time period was the “new starts” of a number of Asian ministries.
Another accomplishment of the synod was the establishment of a youth ministry leadership network.
It was staffed as a part-time, shared-time position. Youth and young adult ministry has been an active
and strongly supported aspect of Pacifica’s mission.
5- 7
One of the shifts that was starting to happen during the last years of the previous chapter and
continued during these years was the retirement of a significant number of seasoned pastors and lay
leaders who had been in ministry during the Lutheran mergers and realignments in North America.
For the most part, these pastors and lay leaders had remained committed to unity and harmony
within the church as it was changing and coming together. Now however, a new generation of
leadership was emerging and shepherding the congregations of the ELCA. While most were
committed to support and strengthen the denomination in the face of its challenges, that was not the
case with all. Toward the end of this chapter of the synod’s ministry, along with many other synods of
the ELCA, we began to see a number of congregations and pastors moving away from their
constitutional responsibilities, their denominational commitments and loyalty. As they did not
always agree with some of the study processes, visions and decisions of the ELCA and the Pacifica
Synod, some congregations began “voting” with their mission support dollars. Some congregations
reduced or withheld their mission support. They became more scarce at synodical gatherings and
events. At one point, a small group of congregations hired an attorney to do a constitutional and
assembly audit of the synod, believing the synod had not fulfilled its constitutional obligations or that
it may not have followed the correct protocols during synod assemblies. The attorney conducted a
thorough and expensive investigation that was paid for with withheld mission support dollars. In the
end, the Pacifica Synod was given a “clean bill of health.” All of its decisions and dealings had been
approved in appropriate and constitutional ways. Out of this effort, a group of pastors formed a nongeographical “conference.” Their purpose was to call upon the synod and the ELCA to re-examine its
ecumenical decisions and to continue with its traditional understanding regarding human sexuality.
The group of nearly 20 clergy gave themselves a name, hosted competing conferences with synodical
events, and publicized that they were seeking “like-minded” supporters.
It was also at the end of this chapter of ministry that the leadership of Central City Lutheran Mission
(CCLM) in San Bernardino wanted more from the Pacifica Synod than the synod was able provide. In
their disappointment, they took their first legal action against the synod, contesting a legacy gift
given to the synod. After a lengthy legal process, the synod prevailed. Pacifica was awarded the
legacy gift that was clearly being given to us. The Synod Council then voted to give the entire amount
to CCLM, hoping for a renewed spirit of shared ministry as together we ministered to the poor and
homeless in San Bernardino.
Finally, it should be noted that during these six years and the next chapter of six years, the bishop
and synod staff dealt with at least one clergy misconduct case per year and in only a couple of those
12 years was there no report of an embezzlement within the congregations or ministries of the
synod. Overall, balancing the good ministry and the challenging days, the first term of the synod’s
second bishop was an exciting, fulfilling and fruitful time of mission and ministry.
2004-2010
The Second Six-Year Term of the Second Bishop of the Pacifica Synod
In May of 2004, at the annual assembly of the Pacifica Synod, it was time again for the process of an
election of the bishop for the next six-year term. Presiding Bishop Mark Hanson was with us. The
process allows for a bishop to be elected or re-elected if a person receives 75% or more votes on the
initial ecclesiastical ballot. That happened on the first day with the first vote. The assembly then
moved through the rest of its agenda without the more lengthy election process. Again, I was deeply
grateful for that trust and support.
This six-year chapter of the history of this synod, as told from my perspective, was marked by other
memorable events. At the assembly in 2004 we raised the question about holding an assembly in
Hawaii to celebrate the 20th Anniversary of the Pacifica Synod. The following year, we approved that
decision, and in 2007, the Pacifica Synod held its first Synod Assembly in Waikiki on the island of
Oahu.
In 2006, thirteen “Pacificans” (a newly-coined word) traveled to Asia … first to Japan, then Hong
Kong for an ordination of one of our new pastors, then on to our companion synod in Sabah, East
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Malaysia, to visit the Basel Christian Church of Malaysia. It was our first official visit since our
companion synod agreement with them was formalized.
The human sexuality conversations and study documents were part of the daily and weekly
conversation. Full communion churches were making important decisions at this time regarding
human sexuality. We walked together as we were all experiencing these shifts and changes in our
understandings and polity.
A faithful and dedicated team of people were working diligently on the proposal for a new synod
home. We suffered several setbacks during this lengthy process, primarily because of zoning changes
in the cities under consideration. Finally, we secured the property in Santa Ana and began the
architectural conceptualization of what became the Lutheran Center for Mission & Learning
(LCFML).
Every aspect of leadership within the synod was brought together for multiple meetings to look at
the missional goals, objectives and priorities of the Pacifica Synod. It was the fourth time the synod
had looked at its internal structure, its purpose and its mandates for ministry. During this season,
there were several staff changes for a variety of reasons, primarily within the executive staff of the
synod. The ELCA adopted the model of Directors for Evangelical Mission and we experienced some
changes in the ways Pacifica would staff itself for new ministry development and transformational
ministry. In 2008, after some of the most positive synod assembly feedback we had ever received
following our gathering in Hawaii, it was adopted by assembly action to return to Hawaii every seven
years for its annual synodical gathering.
At the end of the 2008 Synod Assembly in Irvine, the voting members and others traveled to 1801-C
Parkcourt Place in Santa Ana for the dedication of the long-awaited Lutheran Center for Mission &
Learning. This building more than doubled the size of the offices we leased in Yorba Linda. Now we
had individual offices for every staff person, adequate storage space and a large well-appointed
chapel which is used as a meeting or learning room. We have an overflow room, resource center, full
kitchen, bathrooms with showers, a conference room and a small counseling room. Five rooms have
doors leading to small outdoor patio areas. The building includes a courtyard with a labyrinth, a
baptismal remembrance fountain, trees, plants, flowers and a seating area. All who enter come into a
large reception area. Inside the building, state-of-the art equipment allowed for teleconferencing
meetings with Hawaii and other parts of the synod, as well as equipment for multimedia
presentations and other technological capabilities. About $2,500,000 was given upfront by
individuals or couples toward the purchase of the site and the building of this new synod center. It
was the hope of the planning team that the last $900,000 would be given by our congregations in
2007-2008. A fundraising campaign was launched entitled Blessed to Build Two Buildings which we
affectionately abbreviated to B2B2B. The second building we were going to build was in Ethiopia
with our companion synod in the EECMY as they were planning for an educational classroom and
dormitory for the training of lay evangelists. We intended to contribute $100,000 to this effort.
Unfortunately, the economic downturn that began in the fall of 2007 had a huge impact on this
campaign. Several hundreds of thousands of dollars were received for B2B2B, but we fell short of our
expected goal. The Synod borrowed about $650,000 from one of its funds to pay the final bills for the
LCFML. Several years later it was voted to forgive that internal loan. The Lutheran Center for Mission
& Learning is now debt free, has a special fund for maintenance and upkeep, and saves the Pacifica
Synod as much as $35,000 a year when compared to the cost of the lease for smaller space in Yorba
Linda.
In 2009, at the ELCA Churchwide Assembly, we voted to enter into a full communion relationship
with the United Methodist Church under the agreement Confessing Our Faith Together. At that same
CWA, the Social Statement, Human Sexuality: Gift and Trust, was approved by exactly the needed 2/3
majority. This decision, made after years of biblical and social study, fervent prayer, moral and
theological deliberation, healthy debate and many conversations, set into motion a change across the
ELCA, including the Pacifica Synod. We approved statements that declared that this was not a churchdividing decision. Latitude was given for persons and congregations to hold any one of four views on
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the acceptance of this social statement, ranging from very “traditional” to much more “progressive.”
In the end, the votes taken at that CWA opened the roster of the ELCA to be more fully inclusive than
it had been before. I had returned to the United States midway in a sabbatical leave to attend the
2009 CWA. Following the CWA, I was unable to return to my sabbatical time away. Over the next
years following that decision, 15 congregations left the Pacifica Synod with about 50 rostered
leaders. The baptized membership of the synod was reduced by nearly one-third. The mission
support over those years as we struggled with our new realities was about 40% less than it had been
in the early 2000s. Some could not agree with the ELCA decisions. They were unable to embrace the
thinking that this did not need to be a “church-dividing issue.” They chose to leave the synod and the
ELCA. At the same time, now new faces appeared in congregations as people who longed to be part of
a fully inclusive community of faith identified with the ELCA and its accepted practices and policies.
While our synodical gatherings became smaller in number, the spirit within those gatherings was
much less contentious and painful. Two new Lutheran church bodies were formed and some of our
former congregations, that voted to terminate their relationship with the ELCA, identified with one
or the other or both. The Ethiopian Evangelical Church Mekane Yesus ended its partnership with the
ELCA which affected our synod and four other ELCA synods in our companion relationships.
Ms. Sheila Wenzel became the fourth vice president of the Pacifica Synod. The last 11 months of this
six-year chapter of ministry within Pacifica was filled with many meetings and consultations with the
leadership and congregations of the synod. It was also during this six-year chapter that a significant
number of new synodically authorized worshiping communities were begun, almost all of them
speaking languages other than English. By the time this chapter ended, there were 24 ethnic-specific
congregations speaking at least 16 different languages in Pacifica.
2010-2016
The Third Six-Year Term of the Second Bishop, and DEM Almost Completed
The first couple of years of this current chapter began with some of the same issues and concerns as
the ending of the last chapter. The year 2010 was yet another bishop’s election year for the Pacifica
Assembly. Presiding Bishop Mark Hanson was again with the assembly conducting the election
process. On the fourth ballot, the synod chose its current bishop to serve a third and final term. (The
constitution of our synod allows a maximum of three six-year terms.) I was again deeply thankful for
this affirmation of Pacifica, a part of the Church to whom I was and am deeply committed.
It was a good time for the church as we were becoming more open and inclusive of all of God’s
people. It was also a challenging time. Your bishop spent much of 2010 and 2011 in congregational
consultations, meetings and conversations. Most of our congregations decided to stay engaged and
involved with the Pacifica Synod and the ELCA, but as stated earlier, not all. Nine of the largest ten
congregations of this synod voted to terminate its relationship with the ELCA. Among them were
dear friends and colleagues that we knew for many years. In some respects, it was a very sad time.
But the words of a pastor in our synod echoed within me each time I thought about the changes and
reshaping we were undergoing. The pastor said, “Our church is finally becoming all that I always
hoped and dreamed it would be.” The ELCA and our synod has been on that kind of journey,
becoming what God is creating us to be at this time in God’s history in these beginning days of this
millennium.
Mr. Leroy Loseke was elected as the fifth vice president of the Pacifica Synod. In the midst of these
challenging days in this chapter, a leader under synod call within the Pacifica Synod believed it was
within his power to give away Central City Lutheran Mission to another very small church body
(consisting of several clergy but no congregations). For the second time, we ended up in a lawsuit
regarding our Mission in San Bernardino among the poor and homeless. Again, the Pacifica Synod,
after a lengthy and costly legal battle, prevailed and the “settlers” who tried to take over the property
vacated the premises and allowed us to get back to work and ministry. The Pacifica Synod came very
close to losing the ministry of Central City Lutheran Mission, at that time. With a generous
outpouring of support from the ELCA, the synod’s endowment funds, and congregations within
Pacifica, we were able to keep the doors open and the ministry within that community thriving.
Under new leadership and direction, the Mission re-established itself and stabilized. Now partnered
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with Lutheran Social Services of Southern California, CCLM continues, along with other specialized
ministries throughout Pacifica, to be a needed Christ-centered ministry of compassion with some of
the poorest people in North America.
With a greatly reduced budget and in the midst of several staff changes, we launched into yet another
chapter of ministry and mission knowing the synod was being reshaped. The two people sharing the
work that was being carried out by the newly designated Directors for Evangelical Mission (DEM) left
the staff for other callings. Along with five other ELCA synodical bishops, I assumed the position as
DEM for several years while also serving as bishop. I did this until we could re-group and find our
way through the years of change. It meant twice as much time at the churchwide offices in Chicago,
but it also gave me a new set of experiences, lenses and connections for a few years with this synod
and church.
A small group of people attempted to take control of our congregation in La Mirada in 2012. There
was no record of them ever officially joining the congregation or becoming part of the Lutheran
Church. They wanted to take the congregation and property out of the ELCA. The Synod Council did
not allow that to happen and the synod staff and officers of the synod found themselves once again
facing legal issues. The case was ultimately dismissed. The property remained within the Pacifica
Synod and became an asset to the mission funding of the synod in 2014 when it was sold to another
church body.
Starting in 2013, after many things had stabilized, we were again able to call a full-time DEM. One of
the key areas of ministry for synod staff is under the description of “mobility.” Very few pastors were
moving or retiring in the years of 2008-2012 because of the instability of the economy. All that would
start to change in 2013. As the economic downturn began to reverse itself and as the large number of
“baby boomer” pastors began retiring, pastoral mobility came back as the main concern of the synod.
In one 12 month period of time, 17 pastoral vacancies were filled.
Hoping to begin another ministry in Orange County, we launched another fundraising appeal, this
time called A Threefold Cord. The funds of this three-year effort were to be unevenly divided
between the new ministry start in Orange County, Central City Lutheran Mission in San Bernardino,
the Lutheran/Episcopal Campus Ministry at San Diego State University, and the One Pot, One Hope
ministry with those in need on the Waianae coast of Oahu.
In 2014, we Californian voting members traveled the 2550+ miles to Oahu for our second Synod
Assembly in Hawaii, meeting again at the Waikiki Marriott, worshipping as we had done before in
2007 across the street at Saint Augustine Catholic Church, and going on excursions in the afternoon
to visit our congregations and ministries in the islands. Our newly-elected Presiding Bishop, the Rev.
Elizabeth Eaton, was with us. We were the first synod assembly she visited in her new role as
Presiding Bishop. We also had our companion synod bishop from the Basel Christian church of
Malaysia, the Rev. Dr. Thomas Tsen and his spouse, the Rev. Dr. Laura Hindrianto, with us for the first
time in that gathering in Hawaii.
For the past 18 months, 2015-2016, many people of this synod have been involved in a process called
Walking into the Future Together (WIFT). They prepared a remarkable document filled with results
and evaluation of their research, with the gleanings from many meetings throughout the conferences
of the synod, and much useful information for this synod as it faces another transitional moment and
a new chapter in its history.
As I write this narrative, we have recently undergone several more staff changes. In the office we
have the equivalency of six full-time positions and one 30% position. We are currently in legal
conversations with a congregation in the Inland Empire regarding property ownership. We are
working with about 10 congregations in the mobility process and there are another dozen who have
longer-term, part-time or supply pastoral ministry. A few of our congregations are breaking ground
and building beautiful new buildings. Some of our congregations are reporting increases in
membership, attendance and stewardship. Others are reporting the opposite as they struggle with
declining participation and support. Many are holding their own in the midst of times of changing
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demographics and significant shifts in our society when it comes to involvement and loyalty to faith
communities.
Thanksgiving for Those Who Have and are Serving as Synod Staff of the Pacifica Synod
Below is a listing of those who have been under the employment of the Pacifica Synod, some for fulltime, long-term positions and others either part-time or for a designated term or temporary position.
Some of the names will appear more than once as those persons have taken on different positions
over the years. Those with the * are currently the employed staff members of Pacifica. They appear in
approximate chronological order.
Executive Assistants to the Bishop
 Ms. Anita Kley
 Ms. Cheryl Levins
 Ms. Marlene Heronemus
 Ms. Helga Bergthold*
Bishops


The Rev. Robert L. Miller
The Rev. Murray D. Finck*
Assistants to the Bishop















Ms. Janet Shellenberger
The Rev. Everett Nielsen
The Rev. Eugene Perry
The Rev. Gary Marshall
The Rev. Murray D. Finck
The Rev. Paul Svingen (Interim)
The Rev. Joaquin Figueroa
The Rev. Lyle Peterson
The Rev. Karen Parker
The Rev. Gordon Peterson
The Rev. Richard Ajer
The Rev. Heidi Hester
The Rev. Hitoshi Adachi*
The Rev. Tim Philips*
The Rev. Terry Tuvey Allen*
Administrative Staff including accountants,
bookkeepers, office oversight,
communications











Youth Leadership Network
Stewardship, Mission Support, Fundraising,
Planned Giving Staff






The Rev. Al Lorentzen
The Rev. Steve Awbrey
The Rev. Lyle Peterson
The Rev. Tom Dudley
Mr. Greg Shepherd*
The Rev. Rick Showalter*
Other Part-time Paid Staff



Mission Directors, Directors of Evangelical
Mission



Ms. Bette Hamilton
Ms. Julie Weaver
Mr. Tim Wilcox
Ms. Dorothy Aanestad
Ms. Lori Seargeant
Mr. Tom Krogstad
Ms. Terri Robertson*
Mr. Ron Peace
Ms. Katy Shores
The Rev. Karen Bolton (Interim)
Ms. Pam Reynolds*
The Rev. Yutaka Kishino
The Rev. Murray D. Finck
The Rev. Tim Philips*
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The Rev. Eugene Holtz
The Rev. Robert Warren
Mr. Joel Balverde*
A Few Final Words, Thoughts, Expressions of Thanksgiving, Love and Care
I finish this report with words of thanksgiving and praise. I give thanks to God for claiming
and calling me in my baptism. From my earliest memories, I felt the nudging of the Spirit of
God leading me toward a life and a professional career of faith and trust in Christ Jesus,
ongoing and endless learning, compassion and care for others, and professional ministry
within the Christian Church, specifically within the Lutheran Church. The journey began for
me on a Good Friday afternoon in mid-April of 1949 when I drew my first breath and it
continued in a wondrous way on May 8th of that year as my grandfather splashed sacred
water over me in the name of the Father, Son and Holy Spirit. Even before I affirmed my
baptismal covenant (Confirmation) in the spring of 1963, I believed that I was being led by
the Spirit toward ordained ministry. A faithful family showed me what it means to be fully
committed and intimately connected to a faith community on a daily and weekly basis.
Lutheran schools, pastors and teachers nurtured and educated me. College and seminary
faculty challenged me and shaped my thinking and theology. I believed then and still believe
today that it was the work and grace of God and I was an undeserving but willing recipient.
When God and the Church called through a small congregation in the Central Valley of
California in 1975, I was more than ready to say “Here am I! Send me!” I have been thankful
to God for walking beside me and showing me the way through every stage of my life and
ministry!
I am deeply grateful to the staff members who are currently working with and for Pacifica in
either a full-time or part-time position, as well as those with whom I have had the privilege
of working since those early days of 1993 when I joined the staff of this amazing synod.
Those currently working with the synod are among the whole group listed beginning on
page 5-12, and are marked with an *. They will be recognized and thanked during the
assembly. We experienced the following staff changes since our last synod assembly: Ms.
Lori Seargeant, working primarily in the area of communications, resigned at the end of May
2015. Some of her portfolio was assumed by Ms. Terri Robertson, who has been working
part-time as our accounting bookkeeper, thus Terri is now full-time with two distinctly
different ministry descriptions. We received the resignation of the Rev. Heidi Hester as she
took a new call to the Sierra Pacific Synod. The Rev. Terry Tuvey Allen came to us from the
Southwest California Synod to serve as Assistant to the Bishop for Ministry and Pastoral
Care. The synod call to Pastor Allen is through July 31, 2016. Because of financial limitations,
we sadly needed to reduce our staff by one person this past year in preparation for the
realities of fiscal year 2016/2017. After nearly 18 years of faithful and dedicated ministry
within the Pacifica Synod office, it became necessary to draw to a close the work of our
receptionist and administrator of hospitality, Ms. Dorothy Aanestad, as we bid her farewell
in mid-February 2016. All three of these women, Lori, Heidi and Dorothy, served faithfully
and well. We are grateful for each of them, for the contributions they consistently gave to the
life and work of Pacifica, and for their long and faithful service. Synod staff ministry is very
unique. It is extremely specialized with many different tasks that must be addressed with
faithfulness, sensitivity and confidentiality. It is work that is never truly finished. The current
configuration of the Pacifica Staff is as follows: Administrative Staff—Ms. Helga Bergthold
(Bishop’s Executive Assistant); Ms. Pam Reynolds (Executive for Administration and Synod
Processes) Ms. Terri Robertson (Accountant and Director for Communication). Executive
Staff—The Rev. Timothy Philips (Assistant to the Bishop and Director for Evangelical
Mission); The Rev. Terry Tuvey Allen (Assistant to the Bishop for Ministry and Pastoral
Care); The Rev. Hitoshi Adachi (part time Assistant to the Bishop for Financial
Administration, along with other part-time work at Resurrection Lutheran Church in
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Huntington Beach and Asian Ministry Coordinator for Pacifica and Southwest California
Synods). The Rev. Rick Schowalter has received a part-time stipend for his ministry as
Director for the Youth Ministry Leadership network. Pastor Schowalter will be ending his
work in this position May 1. We thank him for his 19 years of leadership in this synod! These
are all remarkable people who work very diligently! I am grateful for each of these staff
members, for their commitment to God, the Church and Pacifica! Collectively, they take on a
huge amount of daily, weekly, monthly and yearly responsibilities. This synod has so much
to be thankful for because of the dedication of the executive and administrative staff, past
and present. The other staff position, by the way, is the call of a synodical bishop which is a
full-time position. All synod staff positions, calls or contracts, are co-terminus with the call
and/or term of the Bishop, meaning that when there is a transition within the office of the
bishop in a synod, there also could be a transition in synod staffing.
The role my family has had relative to my work has been very important for me. Our three
children were in high school, junior high and grade school when the call to synodical
ministry came my way. Our family patterns, during the previous 18 years when I was in
congregational ministry changed significantly. In those first 18 years, our lives centered
around one particular faith community. We were usually together in the mornings for
breakfast and at dinner in the evenings. Traveling away and being gone overnight was very
rare. It was a given that as a family we attended all important and significant family
activities, school events, sporting games and tournaments, and, of course, many
congregational activities. For the past 23+ years those patterns have been quite different.
Sacrifices were made by my family members, and they were made with grace and respect for
the uniqueness of a parent called to a specialized ministry. At the same time, there were
wonderful opportunities that allowed our children to travel the globe, have interesting
meetings with leaders of church and society, and view the church and faith through different
lenses. I am so deeply thankful for the love and support that I receive from our three
children … Erin, Annie and Adam … our two sons-in-law, Malte and Eric … and our
grandchildren, Helena and Erik.
The unfailing affirmation and love I have received from my beloved Rhoda for all of our
nearly 45 years of marriage has allowed me to say “here am I, send me” to a number of very
unique opportunities in my faith journey and pastoral ministry. Rhoda grew up in a Lutheran
pastor’s home, married a Lutheran seminarian, and then became the spouse of a Lutheran
pastor. She is a faithful and dedicated woman, who knows the church and understands its
joys, sorrows, demands and challenges. She has been a remarkable and extraordinary
marriage partner for me! I am so very, very thankful! Over these years she excelled as a
mother, grandmother, in her career as an educator, as an involved and committed member
of a number of different congregations, and as the spouse of a pastor/bishop. In these past
23+ years, she recognized and accepted the need for her spouse to be away from home more
than half the time. (How wonderful it is going to be to be back together full time!) I do not
believe that I could have served in the ways that I have over these years without her daily
affirmation. Her love and support truly has been one of the most amazing gifts of grace that I
have received.
“So what is next?” I have been asked that question so many times over the past months. My
answer when asked the question is that I plan to take some time “to breathe, to catch up with
myself, to travel with Rhoda, to spend more time with our children, grandchildren and my
aging mother, to find the niche wherein Rhoda and I will continue to live out our faith and
ministry, to dust off the tools in my woodshop, to continue to love and support the Pacifica
Synod and the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America, and to fully honor and respect the
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Office of the Third Bishop of the Pacifica Synod by carefully and faithfully following the
church’s guidelines for retired ordained ministers. At this time, it is my intent to fill out my
retirement papers this summer and remain on the roster of the ELCA as a retired
clergyperson.
To each of you in the languages spoken within Pacifica—mahalo, gracias, danke schön, xie
xie, doh je, mange tak, arigato, asante, amesegunalhun, kamsahamnida, terima kasih banyakbanyak, maharaba, salamat, khawp khun khrap, cám on, fa'afetai tele, maraming salamat
po—thank you people of Pacifica (Pacificans), my dear, dear colleagues and friends. You will
remain in my heart and prayers day by day as I give thanks for you and remember these
years of awe and wonder, of God’s mission and our ministry together, of grace and promise,
all in the name of Jesus, our living Christ,
 The Rev. Murray D. Finck
Bishop
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PACIFICA SYNOD – 2016
ROSTERED PASTORS AND YEAR OF ORDINATION
Adachi, Hitoshi
Aden, Charles R.
Ajer, Rebecca
Ajer, Richard D.
Allen, Nathan
Allert, Mark W.
Anderson, Harvey A.
Anderson, Mark C.
Anderson, Milo Ken
Anderson, Matthew
Aviles, Agapito
Awbrey, Steve A
Babcock, David H.
Baesler, Ronald D.
Barber, David
Beard, David P.
Bell, Jake
Bengtson, William C.
Bentz, Sandra L.
Berg, Duane A.
Berry, Philip J.
Bieber, Paul G.
Bieghler, Steven K.
Black, Paul H.
Blumhorst, Roy
Bos, Brenda
Boye, Karin
Brandt, Stephen L.
Brashear, Elizabeth
Braun, Richard L.
Brauner, Steve
Brown, Linda
Bunge, John E.
Burke, Dale S.
Burkman, Jacob
Califf, Stanley N.
Cansino, Mark
Caudill, Kenneth T.
Chen, Betty
Chen, David C. T.
Chen, Thomas W.S.
Chutimapongrat, Pongtep
Corneliussen, Cheryl
Craft, Bruce P.
Crawford, Jerry A.
Dale, Kenneth J.
Denker, Angela
Dirks, R. Dennis
Doolittle, Jonathan S.
Duttera, Margaret A.
2010
1997
2014
1985
2015
1999
1961
1977
1977
2013
1999
1986
1959
1976
1971
1979
2001
1967
2000
1962
1967
1990
1987
1975
1959
2014
1986
1960
2005
2008
1998
2011
1978
1972
2013
1955
1985
1963
2009
1964
1984
2012
1991
1961
1972
1951
2013
1971
1994
1982
Edmondson, Timothy A.
Egenes, Jay C.
Egertson, Glen
Eller, Dianne J.
Elliott, Richard L.
Elmer, Lynda
Embree, John R.
Endter, Charles A.
Erickson, Carl W.
Erisman, Daren
Erlenbusch, W. Daniel
Eskildsen, Edward C.
Espeseth, Gloria A.
Estergren, Noel C.
Falk, George K.H.
Finck, Murray D.
Flohr, Anke
Foley, Audrey
Fossey, Derek
Foxworth, Brian P.
Freiberg, Shane M.
Friedrich, James
Freistedt, Robert R.
Fritschel, Fred P.
Frohner, Jeffrey
Gardner, Larry A.
Gearhart, Frank S.
Goellrich, Thomas E.
Gordon, Wendi
Gray, M. Laurel
Gunderson, Sharon L.
Hagenow, Michael J.
Hailu, Solomon
Hale, James R.
Hall, Elwood K.
Halvorson, Karla
Hamada, Yukio
Hand, Lawrence L.
Hansen, Daniel C.
Harman, William K.
Hodgson, David J.
Holtz, Eugene R.
Hong, HyunHo
Hormann, Phyllis
Hovick, Ron
Jacobson, Martin L.T.
Jensen, Steven L.
Jerpseth, James G.
Jiang, Franklin X.
Johns, Theodore C.
5- 16
1990
2009
2001
1984
1962
1997
1974
1952
1963
1996
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1954
1984
1969
1970
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1988
1978
2008
2010
2008
1977
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1992
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1998
1956
1991
2007
1997
1973
1977
2007
1979
1982
1958
1967
1973
1962
2010
1995
1994
1993
1973
1998
1994
1965
Johnson, Darin
Johnson, Donald K.
Johnson, George S.
Johnson, Holly A.
Johnson, Joseph J.
Jorstad, David P.
Kieffer, David W.
Kirchner, Paul K.
Kishino, Yutaka
Knudson, John O.
Koger, Larry A.
Kozak, Darryl
Kraft, H. Ivor
Krogstad, Kim E.
Krueger, David J.
Kuo, Ying-Chhi
Kumissa, Samuel S.
Kupka, David R.
Laherty, Dennis M.
Lape, Stephanie
Larson, Lowell O.
Larson, Paul A.
Lavin, Ronald J.
Lee, Simon Wing-Shing
Licht, Kenneth J.
Lilley, Jeff
Lindberg, David
Lindquist, Jack E.
Line, Laura A.
Listug, Clifford A.
Lloyd, Scottie R.
Lopez, Charles J. Jr.
Lubs, Frederick C.
Luehr, Catherine
Lund, Kinndlee
Lundblad, John A.
Lunn, John S.
Mahraun, Leslie
Malloch, Charles W.
Marohn, Karen L.
Martin, Lara
Martinson, Diane
Martyn, Richard W.
Mason, Timothy J.
Matoush, Joseph R.
Mattson, David R.
McComas, H.G. (Skip)
Meeks, Tomas E.
Mehl, Raymond
Melendez, Rafael
1997
1963
1962
2012
1971
1986
1984
1979
1979
1958
1987
2006
1972
1984
1976
1963
2014
1966
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2015
1948
1958
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1981
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1976
2009
2012
1969
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2012
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2003
2008
1992
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1991
1974
1987
1999
1973
1957
1996
Menke, Wesley
Miller, David H.
Miller, Gary W.
Miller, Robert L.
Miller, Wilbert S.
Moody, John H.
Mooney, Robert T.
Moore, Gilbert C.
Myers, Donovan A.
Nagler, David
Nguyen, Minh Hanh
Nicolls, Ashley
Nordstrand, Patrice A.
Norman, William A.
Oas, Paul C.
Olivar, Deogracias
Oltman, Brian
Parker, Karen S.
Parmeter Dyer, Carole
Patterson, Roger W.
Perkins, Karen D.S.
Perry, Steven L.
Peterson, Ruth M.
Philips, Timothy A.
Pike, James A.
Puccio, Kenneth A.
Raaen, Daniel
Radatz, William A.
Ramnarine, R. Joseph
Reed, Carol
Remillard, Amber
Rennegarbe, Ronald L.
Retamoza, Manuel J.
Reynolds, David D.
Rierson, Richard L.
Riggs, Charles B.
Roberts, Marda Ruth
Roessler, James L.
Rollefson, Richard
Roller, Lawrence H.
Ronning, Greg
Roschke, Daniel E.
Rozen, Lee B.
Rufsvold, Victoria J.
Salmonson Olson, Linda
Salomon, Esaul
Santa Cruz, Maria
Scheer, Tony W.
Scheitlin, Paul F.
Schlechter, Kathryn
5- 17
2014
1970
1968
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2007
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2000
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1994
Schneider, Michael D.
Schowalter, Richard P.
Schumacher, William H.
Seyb-Stockton, Karla M.
Severa, Kenneth
Snyder, William J. Jr.
Spann, John W.
Stienstra, Bradley R.
Stott, Albert W.
Sundry, Charles W.
Sweetman, Sherry G.
Symons, Luther
Taylor, Andrew A.
Taylor, Brian
Tengbom, Luverne C.
Tsui, May
Tuohino, Kent
Tuvey Allen, Terry
Vadis, Bohdan
1996
1978
1954
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1975
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1965
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2006
1988
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2003
Van Tassel, P.E.
Vasta, Sabrina M.
Vevia, Richard W. Jr.
Volkmann, Edward J.
Wade, Raymond W.
Waltz, Kathy
Watland, A. Joris
Wayne, Robert J.
Wenger, David E.
Winick, Mark E.
Witt, Carl R. Jr.
Wolter, Keith
Worthing, Carol
Wright, Dick L.
Zarate, Juan Ramon
Ziehl, Laura
Zimmermann, E. Carl
Zurcher, Kathryn
1945
2010
1981
1956
1981
1996
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1952
1963
1978
1977
1984
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2013
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2006
ROSTERED ASSOCIATES IN MINISTRY AND YEAR OF COMMISSIONING
Christopherson, Mildred
Darrow, Betty L.
Decker, Georgia
Emerson, Leah
Evans, Ann
Fisher, Taflin
Herbert, Benjamin
1975
1966
1986
2008
1980
2003
1970
Kieschnick, Melvin M.
Lee, Shirley J.
Prechel, Lynne
Rennegarbe, Paula
Stief, Lavonne
Stohlman, Mary
Wall, Roberta
1950
2002
2007
1973
1968
1987
2015
ROSTERED DIACONAL MINISTERS AND YEAR OF CONSECRATION
Deming, Phillip
James, Melissa
1996
2004
Martyn, Barbara
Rube, Linda
5- 18
2001
2004
PACIFICA SYNOD STAFF
1801 C Parkcourt Place, Santa Ana CA 92701 (714) 692-2791
Fax: (714) 692-9317, email: [email protected]
BISHOP
THE REV. MURRAY D. FINCK,
ext. 736, email: [email protected]
ASSISTANTS TO THE BISHOP
THE REV. HITOSHI ADACHI,
Finance & Asian Ministry Coordinator, ext. 734, email: [email protected]
THE REV. TERRY TUVEY ALLEN,
Ministry and Pastoral Care, ext. 739, email: [email protected]
THE REV. TIMOTHY PHILIPS
Director for Evangelical Mission, ext. 735, email: [email protected]
ADMINISTRATIVE STAFF
MS. HELGA BERGTHOLD,
Bishop’s Executive Assistant, ext. 733, email: [email protected]
MS. PAM REYNOLDS,
Executive for Administration and ELCA Processes, ext. 731,
email: [email protected]
MS. TERRI ROBERTSON,
Accountant and Director for Communication, ext. 732,
email: [email protected]
Director of Youth & Family Life Ministry Leadership
THE REV. RICK SCHOWALTER, (619) 258-8775, email: [email protected]
ELCA PARTNERS SERVING OUR SYNOD
Congregational and Synodical Mission
MS. MARGY SCHMITT AJER,
Diaconal Minister, Regional Coordinator
(619) 867-1434
[email protected]
Lutheran Office of Public Policy
MR. MARK CARLSON, Director
1701 L St., Sacramento CA 95814
(916) 447-6666
[email protected]
ELCA Foundation
MR. GREG SHEPHERD,
Regional Gift Planner
(909) 910-6823
[email protected]
5- 19
Director for Evangelical Mission, Assistant to the Bishop
The Role of the Director for Evangelical Mission (DEM)
Each time I file a report for the Synod Assembly, I am mindful that many of you who are our
voting members this year may not be familiar with the work that the DEM does in midst of our
synod. Therefore, please allow me to begin with a brief introduction to the role of the DEM.
Almost all of the 65 synods throughout the ELCA have a DEM, most of whom are also
Assistants or Associates to the Bishop. The position is funded by the Congregational and
Synodical Mission Unit of our churchwide organization as an expression of the ELCA’s
commitment to accompany and support congregational ministry. This is your congregational
Mission Support at work!
My work centers on the accompaniment and support of the congregations in Pacifica, with a
special focus on new and renewing ministries, ethnic ministries, grants and funding, evangelical
mission planning, and leadership development. The other focus of my work is mission support
and stewardship, which includes developing stewardship leaders throughout the synod, providing
access to stewardship resources and training, and encouraging strong and faithful partnership
through our mission support for the work that we do together in and through the ELCA.
New Ministry Development
We have four Congregations under Development, four Synodically Authorized Worshipping
Communities, and one Synodically Authorized Worshipping Community Exploration under way
in the synod. All of these ministries have exciting potential for growth and can benefit from
Mission Partner congregations who will walk alongside them. Eight of these new ministries
receive funding from ELCA and Synodical Grants. In addition to these projects we have been
moving steadily toward the launch of a new Congregation under Development in Palm Springs,
which we hope to do this year.
Congregational Renewal
We have one congregation in a formal redevelopment process with accompaniment and funding
support from the synod and our churchwide partners. Two others are in the final phase of
funding for ministry adjustment grants, and we have received our first Fast Growth Grant, a new
grant made possible by the Campaign for the ELCA, in support of one of our ministries
experiencing rapid growth.
There are several other congregations which are at various stages of engaging the
renewal/redevelopment process. At least nine are intentionally wrestling with what
redevelopment would mean in their context, and I would like to see how we might create cohorts
to accompany and encourage them and to provide training. With several of them, I will need to
assist with finding pastors with the right gifts for redevelopment, provide support and training,
and see which ones need funding to catalyze their renewal. Closely related to this, we have 5
congregations in the second cohort of Building Missional Capacity for Sustainability, which is a
renewal process sponsored by our partners from within our churchwide organization.
Holy Closure
I have walked another congregation through the courageous and missional decision to embrace
holy closure. In all three of the congregations that I have closed during my DEM tenure, this has
been incredibly powerful work. Though it seems counterintuitive to the work of the person
5- 20
charged with the responsibility for congregational renewal and new starts, I have come to believe
that closure is important ministry for the DEM. If the most important question for a
congregation to ask is: “What is the most faithful thing that we can do to play our part in God’s
reconciling work in the world through Jesus?” (and I believe it is), then closure can be a
powerful missional decision that trusts in the power of God to bring new life out of death and
releases assets for a new season of mission of God’s church.
Congregational Engagement
Engaging congregations around mission is the heart and soul of my work. Perhaps the best way
to describe what I love to do is to walk with congregations to help them dream God’s dream for
their ministry and to find creative ways to provide resources to pursue that dream. I join our
congregations in worship, often preaching and leading forums to talk about mission or the
powerful and life changing ways that we are church together. I engage with leaders to do vision,
planning, and stewardship work. I am a conduit for training and funding sources within and
outside of the ELCA.
My work, my joy, my passion, is the support of the ministries and the people of the Pacifica
synod. Thank you for the opportunity to serve you in this way.
5- 21
The Rev. Terry Tuvey Allen
Assistant to the Bishop for Ministry and Pastoral Care
Learning, Worship, Pastoral Care, Candidacy, Mobility, First Call Theological Education
Grace and peace from God our Creator through our Lord and Savior
Jesus the Christ,
The story of Joseph and his amazing colored coat is dear to my heart
and I imagine yours. It’s a great story, with all the right plot points.
Snotty young brother, favorite of an aging father, lots of jealous big
brothers, a smart one and several very emotional ones, a caravan of
slave traders, a Pharaoh and a drought. Part of the fun of biblical stories
is that we can usually find just the right role for ourselves in the story.
And then there is the role of God. God who’s got the chaotic,
unbelievable mess under control. Even when it looks hopeless. Even
when the plot twists and turns and ties up every possible human
solution into knots of inconceivable impossibilities; there’s God
artwork by Suzanne Tornquist
working and moving and making a way. It’s a great story. Whether you
used by permission
see yourself as an older brother, tired of the dreamer, an aging father
who believes the best, a trader hauling things away, Pharaoh who wants to prepare for the future,
or young upstart with a loud mouth, who wants things to change, this is our story. And God’s got
this. God has prepared us for such a time as this.
And the dreams. I’m a dreamer. I see possibilities and opportunity rather than dead ends
and catastrophes. Joseph paid attention to his dreams and saw God act in and through them, in
spite of him, in mighty ways. When we dream together, we become more open, we see from new
perspectives, we grow in our trust of God’s amazing work throughout the Pacifica synod.
Congregations are encouraging and helping one another, serving communities that have been
disenfranchised and those who are forgotten. Lifting up those who are called to serve on the rosters
of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America through word and sacrament, and word and service.
Leaders raised up to preach and teach, to guide and encourage, to love and admonish us. Together
we are being woven into a pattern of welcome and service. Together we are stronger. Together we
are more colorful and diverse. Together we are able to dream bigger dreams.
God’s Spirit is moving among us, continuing to write the story of God with us in our hearts
and lives. I am so thankful to have been called to work with you. With individuals and congregations
seeking to serve in this time and place. Those who are dreaming dreams of bold new ministries,
those who are faithfully serving in congregations whose roots trace back to the beginning of the last
century. Those who are finding their way through the challenges of finances, time, and education to
be our leaders into the future and whatever that may bring. I see the hand of God within our
preparation to serve together for this time and in this place.
CANDIDACY: To heed the call to serve as a rostered leader in the ELCA is to enter into the candidacy
process in partnership with one’s home congregations, the seminaries, our Churchwide partners
and the candidacy committee. The process toward rostered leadership is meant to be a welcoming
and joyful opportunity for people to discern how to serve in and through the church. It is a
formalized, yet personally and relationally focused, journey that assists people in discernment for
church leadership. The ELCA views discernment as a life-long process which continually assesses
how God is calling all of us into mission and ministry, while setting aside some who might serve as
an ordained leader, as well as those who might serve in a variety of lay leadership roles in the
church or in the world. The candidacy process is successful when a person graciously discovers,
5- 22
through the nurturance of mentors, congregations, and others how and where to serve according
to the Spirit’s leading. Discernment, is one of the building blocks, along with spiritual formation and
education that become integrated into an individual’s life as they are accompanied through
candidacy. Perhaps the Holy Spirit has been nudging you with questions about what it would mean
to serve as a leader in the church. If you are feeling a call to ministry, even if you aren’t sure, please
do not hesitate to talk with your pastor or to contact me to explore the possibilities. God has woven
us together to use our gifts to bring God’s Good News into the world in Christ’s name. I look
forward to having those conversations with you.
Currently the Pacifica candidacy committee is accompanying 53 people in the discernment
process. Twenty-two have been entranced into the candidacy for ordained ministry and are at
various stages of their training. Three candidates are working toward the lay roster. They will be
“grafted” onto the new “deacon” roster following the Churchwide assembly this summer. Seven
candidates have suspended their process for a variety of personal reasons. And there are thirteen
active inquirers, who are seeking to be entranced into candidacy. Pacifica has two candidates
assigned to the synod who are approved for ordination and awaiting call.
There are two funds designated to assist those who are seeking a seminary education and in
the candidacy process. The Fund for Leaders is a fund that is administered by the ELCA and is
available for those who are attending one of our eight ELCA seminaries as a full time, residential
student. If you or your congregation would like to donate to this fund, you can donate directly
through the ELCA’s website: www.elca.org/Our‐Work/Leadership/ELCA‐Fund‐for‐Leaders. The
second is the Robert L. Miller Scholarship Fund that was established in 1998 to assist any member
or designated leader of an ELCA congregation with assistance going to seminary and through the
candidacy process. Donations can be sent to the Office of the Bishop, Pacifica Synod, 1801 C
Parkcourt Place, Santa Ana, CA 92701; Attn: Robert L Miller Scholarship Fund.
You’ll notice that I mentioned the new lay roster above. Currently the rostered leaders are
those ordained into Word and Sacrament ministry (Clergy), consecrated into Diaconal ministry or
the Deaconess Community, and those commissioned as Associates in Ministry. The proposal
would be that the roster would be comprised of two categories: Word & Sacrament ministers and
Word & Service ministers. The changes will come at the 2016 Churchwide Assembly in New Orleans
in the form of numerous constitutional and bylaw changes.
MOBILITY: The Spirit has been moving mightily throughout the synod in the area of Mobility/Pastoral
Transitions. We have received eight pastors and one associate in ministry from other synods
through calls to serve in Pacifica and one by ordination and call. Six pastors, one diaconal minister
and one associate in ministry have received new calls within the synod. Three pastors retired. Ten
pastors and one diaconal minister are on leave from call and two pastors are on disability. Four of
our pastors transferred from Pacifica to other synods. Four pastors entered life eternal, two pastors
resigned from the roster, and three have been removed. We have two candidates in the synod
awaiting their first call. Additionally, Pacifica has a plethora of rostered leaders who have shared
their gifts for ministry within the church for an astonishing number of years. We have fifty-one
rostered leaders who have served for fifty or more years. Four others who are celebrating their
Fiftieth Anniversaries in 2016. That’s 2,750 years of ministry and mission! And that doesn’t begin to
count the many other significant rostered leader and church anniversaries that are being
celebrated. What a blessing to be partnered with those who are faithfully serving among and with
us wrapped in God’s richly colored coat that is the Pacifica Synod.
Eight congregations issued calls to rostered leaders, two congregations are seeking
candidates to call, four congregations are being served by intentional interims. These congregations
are investing their time and energy in preparation of receiving a new pastor. Six of our
congregations are being served by long term interim pastors. In addition we have new worshipping
communities nested within congregations, and emerging ministries served by TEEM candidates.
5- 23
The variety of gifts, talents, and ways in which we serve is an incredible gift, as we are woven
together by God to be the church. Please continue to pray and uplift one another, those in
transition and those whose ministries are established, those who are in formation and those whose
ministries are abating. Ministry may look very different in the future for some, while others might
change very little. There will be new leadership, as many of our current leaders retire. All of us are
facing hard choices as resources have diminished; some more than others. This harsh reality brings
both challenges and gifts. In the midst of our anxieties, God is doing a new thing. As one ministry
lessens another is born. Congregations are partnering together, we are reaching out to ecumenical
brothers and sisters, sharing resources, leadership, and vision. The Rev. Tim Philips, Director for
Evangelical Mission, is a wonderful resource and has been working closely with many of these
ministry sites as we walk through the mobility process together. People are dreaming dreams, less
about what was and more about what could be. How and where we are doing ministry is changing,
but not the “why.” Together we are strong and faithful in our ministry and mission to share the love
of Christ.
LUTHERAN RETREATS CAMPS AND CONFERENCES: Pacifica partners with Lutheran Retreats, Camps &
Conferences which run Luther Glen in Oak Glen, California, and El Camino Pines in Frasier Park
(which is in the Southwest California Synod). This vital ministry continues to shape our youth and
young adults in their faith formation and allows them to explore their calling as leaders in the
church. Please consider inviting the Rev. Glen Egertson or Lauri Egertson, LRCC Co‐Executive
Directors, to come and share the stories of God’s grace that happens through LRCC and how you
and your congregation can be a part of the story. You may also want to invite Program Director
Nate Maxwell‐Doherty to your congregation to share about the new endeavor at Luther Glen to
become a sustainable farm. Check out the LRCC Facebook page and the display table at the
assembly for more information.
FIRST CALL THEOLOGICAL EDUCATION: Once a person has heard the Spirit call them into a vocation of
rostered leadership and they have received a call, they enter into a three‐year program called First
Call Theological Education. It is a chance for our newly rostered leaders from all over Region 2 to
come together for continued education, formation and fellowship. This has been a busy year for
Pacifica in this area as well. Pacifica has welcomed one “First Call” pastor this past year, bringing the
total of all participants currently to 12. All bring gifts and wisdom into the life of the synod.
WORSHIP: Weekly throughout the Pacifica Synod we gather as communities of faith around the
sacraments of Holy Communion and Baptism, to hear the Word proclaimed and to be gathered and
sent into the world with the Good News of Jesus Christ. While the words, music and images may
differ, what remains steady is the promise that where two or three are gathered, God is there. Your
Pacifica Synod Worship Team is always available for worship workshops, conversations or special
occasions in the worship life of the synod.
It is a joy to serve with you, to dream dreams and share the love of Christ.
Blessings,
Terry Tuvey Allen
5- 24
Assistant to the Bishop for Finance and Asian Ministry Coordinator for Pacifica
and Southwest California Synods
Dear Partners in Pacifica Synod,
Again, this year I would like to start by thanking you for your support and partnership with the larger
church body of the ELCA. Especially I would like to note that Pacifica congregations’ Mission Support in
December 2015 was over $190K, and it was the highest as a single month in six years. Again, thank you.
I began serving in the Bishop’s office in February 2010, when our Bishop, Murray Finck, was about to be
reelected for his final six-year term. In my report this year, I would like to show a brief spreadsheet that
reflects key financial figures of Synod Operating Fund and also changes of Synod Assets figures during
the Bishop’s final term below:
Audited 12
Months
Ended
1/31/10
Audited 12
Months
Ended
1/31/11
Audited 12
Months
Ended
1/31/12
Audited 12
Months
Ended
1/31/13
Audited 12
Months
Ended
1/31/14
Audited 12
Months
Ended
1/31/15
Before
Audited 12
Months
Ended
1/31/16
1,776,456
1,471,752
1,412,126
1,412,520
1,408,671
1,389,491
1,453,247
482,166
458,445
505,155
477,833
497,721
331,309
503,383
87,806
106,148
141,840
135,097
294,387
445,456
325,822
2,346,377
2,036,345
2,059,121
2,025,450
2,200,779
2,166,256
2,282,452
Total Benevolence
1,619,522
1,343,488
1,324,192
1,306,982
1,331,654
1,153,806
1,363,705
Total Synod Office
785,943
690,480
675,810
676,387
805,409
868,975
895,751
Income
Congregation Contributions
Restricted Designation/Donor
Non-Congregation Income
Total Income
Expense
Total Ministry Teams
25,638
28,078
22,258
13,072
18,814
13,992
15,550
2,431,103
2,062,046
2,022,260
1,996,441
2,155,877
2,036,773
2,275,006
-84,675
-25,701
36,861
29,009
44,902
129,483
7,446
2,767,219
2,752,181
2,560,818
1,778,707
1,416,716
1,283,596
2,687,136
Temp Restricted Assets
740,719
773,899
807,336
800,271
809,979
867,536
869,829
Permanently Restricted Assets
155,573
155,573
155,573
155,573
155,573
155,573
255,573
2,528,754
2,375,219
2,382,954
2,848,350
4,049,666
4,952,622
2,798,182
Total Expense
Net Income Operating Fund Before
Depreciation
Designated Assets
Unrestricted Net Assets
Regarding the Operating Fund, when we reflect upon Fiscal Year Ending (FYE) 1/31/2010 and FYE
1/31/2011, the 2009 ELCA decision influenced Congregations’ Mission Support significantly: it was 2.1
million in FYE 1/31/2009, but 1.8 million in FYE 1/31/2010 and 1.4 million in FYE 1/31/2011. Therefore,
for those years, the Synod Operating Fund reflected negative figures in Net Income. However, from the
second year of the Bishop’s last term until the most recent fiscal year ended January 2016, our
Operating Fund’s net income became positive.
The Synod’s Assets, reflected in the lower portion of the spreadsheet above, are categorized as follows:
Designated Assets; Temporarily Restricted Assets; Permanently Restricted Assets; and Unrestricted Net
Assets. If you are not familiar with those terms, please refer to page 7 of the Auditor’s Report in the
Financial Section. As you can see, the Designated Assets decreased from FYE 1/31/2013 until FYE
1/31/2015. The first year’s significant drop was caused mainly due to the Synod’s Council decision to
forgive the loan for the purchase of the Lutheran Center for Mission and Learning. During the following
two years, the Bishop’s office encountered litigation concerning the property of one of our
congregations and had to utilize Designated Assets to proceed with the legal process. However, during
the summer of 2013, the property’s deed was transferred to the Synod, therefore, as of 1/31/2014, the
property value was conservatively assessed and recorded in Unrestricted Assets, increasing these assets
by almost 1.2 million. During the fiscal year ending 1/31/2015, the property value was reassessed and
5- 25
increased. Then in April 2015, the property was sold and it increased the Designated Assets. As for the
Temporarily Restricted and Permanently Restricted Assets, Pacifica Synod has been blessed by donors’
gifts for specific mission, enabling the Synod to continue to provide scholarships and grants for certain
ministries and projects every year.
Since early 2013, I have been assigned as Asian Ministry Coordinator for both Pacifica and Southwest
California Synods. In this synod assembly notebook, again I would like to present the current list of
Asian/Pacific Islanders Ministries below.
Thank you very much for your understanding about the synod finance situations, support of Asian
Ministries and support of the larger church body that enables local new/transforming ministries to go
forward.
In Christ’s Service,
Hitoshi Adachi
Pacifica Synod Asian/Pacific Islanders Ministry
MINISTRY
PASTOR/LAY LEADER
CITY
LANGUAGE
Glory
Betty Chen
Chula Vista
Mandarin
Filipino
Jogy Deogracias
San Diego
Tagalong/English
Taiwanese
John Yu & Shiau-ting Liu
San Diego
Taiwanese/Mandarin
HKBP California
Esra Pangaribuan
Norco
Batak/ Indonesian
Grace Taiwanese
Grace Chiu
Anaheim
Mandarin/Taiwanese
Church of Dream Builders
Hyunho Hong
Anaheim
Korean
Thai Shepherd of the Hills
Pongtep (Golf)
Chutimapongrat
Whittier
Thai
Imanuel Indonesian
Fellowship
Japanese Ministry (as a
part of Resurrection)
Robert Waworuntu
Los Alamitos
Indonesian
Hitoshi Adachi
Huntington Beach
Japanese
Southwest California Synod Asian/Pacific Islanders Ministry
MINISTRY
PASTOR/LEADER
CITY
LANGUAGE
LC of the Cross
Charlie Wang/Thomas
Chen
Arcadia
Mandarin/English
Agape
Karen Chen
El Monte
Mandarin
Christ
Philip Demers/John Yu
Monterey Park
Mandarin/English
Faith
David Lin
Monterey Park
Mandarin
Bethlehem
Frank Wang /Grace Lai
Temple City
English/Mandarin
Glory
Newman Chiu
Torrance
Mandarin
St. Matthew
Marcos Panahon
Glendale
Tagalog/English
5- 26
The Rev. Rick Schowalter
Director of Youth Ministry Leadership
This will be my final report to the Synod Assembly as Director of Youth Ministry Leadership for the
Pacifica Synod. I have resigned from this position as of May 1, 2016. I am thankful for the 38 years of
youth ministry I have been involved in over the span of my ordained ministry. I have been deeply
touched by the 19 years I have spent in youth ministry on a synodical level for this synod and the
Grand Canyon Synod.
For the synods I have served I have modeled the role of a youth ministry specialist. The alternative is
to put youth ministry under the umbrella of an assistant to the bishop where there is often neither
the expertise nor the passion for youth ministry. The part-time youth ministry specialist can provide
quality synodical youth ministry for a minimal expense.
I am grateful for the following youth ministry leadership opportunities that were introduced to the
Pacifica Synod under my tenure:
1) Monthly youth minister network meetings in three locations to provide support and share
youth ministry resources with about 15-20 youth ministers each month
2) Youth Ministry Training Event (YMTE). This annual 3-day training is designed to provide 4
tracks of training over 4 years where upon completion of the 4 tracks a youth minister
becomes a “Recognized Youth Minister of Region 2 of the ELCA”. Since its inception 18 years
ago over 400 youth ministers have received quality training
3) My greatest joy has been working with Terri Robertson who has made amazing
accomplishments for our synod’s youth. She has taken youth since 2006 to national youth
retreats offered by the ELCA, first through the Council of Synod Lutheran Youth Organization
(LYO) Presidents and most recently the ELCA Youth Leadership Summit. She has organized
LYO events for our synod assemblies for 9 years. Through these LYO events, LYO in 2011
brought a resolution in front of the Assembly called “Reformation Now” which encouraged
youth and young adult participation in our synod and our congregations. The 2013 synod
assembly passed a resolution to allow every congregation in our synod to bring an additional
youth or young adult as a voting member. Last year’s assembly met a church–wide goal of
having at least 10% of voting members at synod assembly be a youth or young adult.
4) Terri has also been instrumental in forming a partnership with the Southwest California
Synod to establish a youth leadership team made up of representatives from each of our
conferences that meets for training and will staff an elementary retreat. This partnership is
now also proposing a young adult ministry team to coordinate new young adult ministry
events.
This synod is blessed by Terri’s passion and dedication to youth and young adult ministry.
Pastor Rick Schowalter
Director of Youth Ministry Leadership for the Pacifica Synod
5- 27
Pacifica Synod Council Vice President
Report to the 2016 Pacifica Synod Assembly
Welcome to the 2016 annual Pacifica Synod Assembly. This year has been filled with many
activities. The major events will be addressed later in this report. The most important event this
year has been the planning of the election of a Bishop and the transition from the outgoing
Bishop to the newly elected Bishop. This includes saying “Thank you” to Bishop Finck and
installing the incoming Bishop.
The Pacifica Synod Council consists of twenty-one members. We are proud to report that all
positions are filled with enthusiastic, energetic Lutheran women and men. They continue to
have the interest of their church and the synod uppermost in their mind and heart. The
Executive Committee also has a full complement of members. It is important that all
committees are active as they are vital to the success of the synod. New members are elected
each year and we encourage each and every one of you to be involved in your church and
synod activities.
College Lutheran Church in San Diego has elected to close and they gave the property to the
Pacifica Synod. An appointed group of trustees worked on the transition of all the assets to the
synod. A final determination as to what to do with the property will be made once the property
is transferred to the synod and the legacies of College Lutheran are considered. Just recently a
church was placed under Synodical Administration (S13.24). Another group of trustees are
diligently working on resolving the issues. We pray for an early resolution.
Last year, the Synod Council appointed a Bishop Election Committee to be responsible for the
election of a bishop. They have completed the preliminary work and are ready for the election.
The ELCA Churchwide office published a manual entitled “Guidelines for Synod Bishop
Elections.” This manual has been very helpful on how to properly conduct the election of a
bishop. In addition, a Bishop Transition Committee is planning the transition and installation of
the newly elected bishop.
In addition to ongoing activities we continue to plan for the future. Our desire is for the Pacifica
Synod of the ELCA to be the pathway for each congregation to reach out to the world through
their time, talents and treasures. The staff at the ELCA Churchwide office has been a very
valuable resource in assisting in the areas of operating a successful synod council. The Pacifica
Synod staff is also happy to assist us in carrying out our mission; they are just a phone call away.
As I have decided not to run for a second term I would like to take this opportunity to thank
Bishop Finck, the Synod Council members, synod staff and various committee members for all
the progress we have made this year. Please continue to pray for them. Your continued
prayerful support for our synod staff and synod council are a gift that is pleasing to our loving
and gracious God.
In Christ’s Service,
LeRoy A. Loseke
5 - 28
ACTIONS OF THE SYNOD COUNCIL
May 2015-March 2016
EXTENSION OF SYNOD CALLS
SC15.05.03 VOTED to extend a synod call to interim ministry at King of Kings Lutheran in
Oceanside to the Rev. David Beard.
SC15.05.04 VOTED to extend a synod call to Lutheran Retreats, Camps, and Conferences to the
Rev. Glen Egertson.
SC15.08.06 VOTED to extend a synod call to the Rev. Rich Ajer to pastor of Cross and Crown
Lutheran Church, Rancho Cucamonga for a three year term call.
SC15.08.07 VOTED to extend a synod call to the Rev. Anke Flohr to Pacific Health Ministry as
Executive Director.
SC.15.11.04 VOTED to extend a synod call to Ms. Leah Emerson as Business Manager and
Web Coordinator for Laguna Beach Presbyterian Church, Laguna Beach.
SC15.11.12 VOTED to ratify the email action as follows:
To extend a synod call to the Rev. Terry Tuvey Allen to be Assistant of the Bishop of the
Pacifica Synod from October 1, 2015 to July 31, 2016.
ROSTER MATTERS
SC15.05.02 VOTED to approve 2nd year On Leave from Call study leave status for the Rev.
Steve Awbrey.
SC15.08.03 VOTED to grant 3rd year of On Leave from Call status to the Rev. Richard Braun
and the Rev. Rafael Melendez (retroactive to 8.31.2013).
SC15.08.04 VOTED to grant 2nd year On Leave from Call status to the Rev. Christina Johnsten,
Ms. Barbara Martyn-DM, and Ms. Leah Emerson-AIM.
SC15.08.05 VOTED to grant 1st year On Leave from Call status to the Rev. David Kieffer and
the Rev. Carole Parmeter Dyer.
SC15.08.22 VOTED to ask Bishop Finck to seek the approval of the Council of Bishops for a
two-year extension of On Leave from Call status for the Rev. Karen Perkins.
SC15.11.02 VOTED to grant the following On Leave from Call Status Requests: the Rev. James
Jerpseth (2nd year), the Rev. Michael Hagenow (1st year), the Rev. Amber Remillard (3rd year),
the Rev. Laurie Line (2nd year).
SC15.11.03 VOTED to accept a 2 year extension of On Leave from Call status by Conference of
Bishops until 2017 to the Rev. Karen D.S. Perkins.
SC15.11.06 VOTED to accept the resignation of the Rev. Jen-Hao Lee from the roster of the
ELCA.
SC16.03.04 VOTED to accept the action of the Conference of Bishops that granted the Rev.
Dick Braun a two year extension of On Leave from Call status.
SC16.03.03 VOTED to grant 1st year On Leave from Call status to the Rev. Brad Stienstra (1
abstain).
CONGREGATION MATTERS
SC15.05.09 VOTED to approve the consent calendar (constitution approval of Spirit of Joy,
Hemet, CA; St. Olaf, Garden Grove, CA; Trinity Hemet, CA; St. John’s, El Cajon; CA).
SC15.05.10 VOTED to approve the SAWC status of Spirit Harbor as outlined in the attached
resolution.
SC15.05.11 VOTED to approve the SAWC status of the Thai House Church as outlined in the
attached resolution.
5 - 29
SC15.05.14 VOTED to authorize LeRoy Loseke and the Rev. Darin Johnson to form a task
force to work with Pastor Christine Higueria-Street to work with the future of College Lutheran
Church in San Diego.
SC15.08.15 VOTED to approve the consent calendar (constitutions of Good Shepherd Lutheran
in Claremont, St. John Lutheran in Kailua, Resurrection Lutheran in Huntington Beach, and
Gloria Dei Lutheran in Fontana).
SC15.08.16 VOTED to approve the resolution regarding College Lutheran in San Diego:
Therefore, be it resolved,
The College Lutheran Task Force is hereby charged with and authorized to carry out the
following responsibilities on behalf of the Pacifica Synod Council:
1) Closure: Oversee the transfer of assets to Pacifica Synod and the dissolution of
College Lutheran Church, San Diego, coordinating with synod staff and synodrecommended legal and property professionals
2) Transition: Provide for the care, maintenance and security of the College Lutheran
Church facility and grounds; and oversee tenancy of Oromo Christian Fellowship and
God’s Closet
3) Discernment: Develop a list of core values guiding discernment of how best to steward
the legacy of College Lutheran Church; learn about the ministries named as the
legacy of College Lutheran Church; gather possibilities and discern a vision for future
use of College Lutheran Church assets subsequent to their transfer to the Pacifica
Synod; and bring a recommendation to the Pacifica Synod Council for the use of the
assets remaining from College Lutheran Church.
And, be it further resolved,
Members of the College Lutheran Task Force are appointed as follows: the Rev.
Daniel Roschke (Chair and Sonshine Conference Dean), Mr. LeRoy Loseke (Synod
Council), the Rev. Darin Johnson (Synod Council and Pastor at Agape House), Ms.
Leslie Atkins (founder of God’s Closet), the Rev. Samuel Kumissa (Pastor at Oromo
Christian Fellowship), and the Rev. Richard Vevia (Pastor of Calvary Lutheran, site of
The Cupboard).
SC15.08.25 VOTED to designate Central City Lutheran Mission as a SAWC with the the Rev.
Jay Egenes as identified leader.
SC15.11.10 VOTED to exercise provision S13.24 to take Synodical Administration of Prince of
Peace Lutheran Church, Ontario, CA.
SC15.11.17 VOTED to approve the Indonesian SAWC Exploration Proposal.
SC15.11.18 VOTED to approve the Welcome Church of El Cajon SAWC Proposal.
SC16.03.02 VOTED to reaffirm provision S13.24 of Synodical Administration of Prince of
Peace Lutheran Church in Ontario and close the congregation as of March 31, 2016 in
compliance with the governing documents of the ELCA and the laws of the state of California.
SC16.03.09 VOTED to approve the consent calendar (constitutions of Good Shepherd Lutheran
Church, Claremont and Hope Lutheran Church, Riverside).
SC16.03.11 VOTED to express its commitment to walk with the Oromo Christian fellowship in
order to help them find the best possible site for the continuation of their ministry.
SC16.03.12 VOTED to hire a security company to monitor the property of 6650 Montezuma
Road, San Diego.
SC16.03.13 VOTED to assume synodical administration of Salem Lutheran Church in Whittier
as requested according to S13.25.
5 - 30
FINANCIAL MATTERS
SC15.05.12 voted to authorize the finance committee to proceed with the paying of the tithe of
15% to the ELCA, the calculations of reimbursement of legal plus interest, the transition budget,
and the authority of finance committee to invest balance as they see best.
SC15.05.13 VOTED to authorize any two of Bishop Murray Finck, Mr. Gary Kakert, the Rev.
Hitoshi Adachi to be signers of the necessary investment documents for the proceeds from the
sale of the La Mirada property.
SC15.08.19 VOTED to use the recommendations of the finance committee for the tithe of 15%
to the ELCA from the Net Sales Proceeds of the La Mirada property sale.
SC15.08.20 VOTED to approve the Mission Fund resolution:
Be it resolved that the name of the fund is the “Pacifica Synod Mission Fund-2015”
(Hereafter referred as “Fund”).
Be it further resolved that the Fund’s investments be managed by the Synod Council
Treasurer, Synod Council Vice President, and the Assistant to the Bishop for Finance
with monitoring of the performance of the investments by the Finance Committee with
quarterly reporting to the Executive Committee, and
Be it further resolved that the Fund will be used for missional efforts including forming
new congregations/synodically authorized worshipping communities, strengthening
existing churches, and other projects that will proclaim the Gospel and live out the reign
and justice of God witnessed to in Jesus of Nazareth, and
Be it further resolved that the Fund will be administered according to Fund Guidelines
developed by the Synod Council.
SC15.08.26 VOTED to add Gary Kakert and remove the Rev. Heidi Hester as signer to all
synod accounts (Mission Investment Fund, ELCA Foundation, and Farmer and Merchant)
effective September 11, 2015.
SC15.11.19 VOTED to approve the $239,000 for Congregational Development, New and
Renewed Congregations from NTRF funds and congregational and Synodical mission unit for
the fiscal year 2016, outlined as follows:
New Ministry Developments
-The Table: NTRMF $45,000 / CSM: $40,000
-Palm Springs New Start: NTRMF $50,000 / CSM: $36,000
-CCLM: NTRMF $25,000 / CSM: $30,000
-Thai Shepherd of the Hills, Whittier: NTRMF $17,000 / CSM: $25,000
-Oromo Ethiopian in San Diego: NTRMF $19,000 / CSM: $18,000
-Church of Dream Builders (Korean): NTRMF $7,000 / CSM: $28,000
Transformation/Redevelopment
-Highland Avenue d.b.a. Spirit of Hope in San Bernardino: NTRMF $5,000 / CSM:
$20,000
-Japanese Ministry, Lutheran Church of the Resurrection, Huntington Beach:
NTRMF $1,000 / CSM: $13,000
Training/Consultation
$5,000
To be determined:
$5,000
SC11.15.20 VOTED to approve the following grants for fiscal year 2016 as recommended by
the Latino Ministry Team:
Central City Lutheran Mission, San Bernardino: $5,000
Clairemont Lutheran Church/ Iglesia Luterana Claremont, San Diego: $4,000
Our Savior/Nuestra Salvador, San Diego: $5,000
5 - 31
SC15.11.22 VOTED to approve the housing allowance for the following: Bishop Murray Finck,
the Rev. Tim Philips, the Rev. Hitoshi Adachi, the Rev. Terry Allen, the Rev. Pongtep “Golf”
Chutimapongrat, the Rev. Hyunho Hong, the Rev. Samuel Kumissa, and the Rev. Greg Ronning.
SC16.03.07 VOTED to approve the revised spending plan for FYE 2017.
SC16.03.08 VOTED to approve the Warner Trust Fund application distribution as presented.
SC16.03.15 VOTED to ratify the eVote to create the Matthew 25 Fund.
SC16.03.16 VOTED to ratify the eVote to increase the Synod Assembly registration fee.
SC16.03.17 VOTED to gift Bishop Murray Finck his automobile.
SYNOD ASSEMBLY MATTERS
SC15.05.07 VOTED to approve the resolution of thanksgiving for Army General Eric Ken
Shinseki from Lihue Lutheran Church, Lihue, Kauai and to allow it to be read Thursday evening
of assembly.
SC16.03.19 VOTED to allow clergy On Leave From Call to be voting members at Pacifica
Synod assemblies. (1 abstain, 1 nay)
SC16.03.20 VOTED to approve the request of display space for 24 entities that have applied.
SC16.03.21 VOTED to approve the ethnic/SAWC/CUD representation at the 2016 synod
assembly.
SC16.03.08 VOTED to recommend to the synod assembly the Budget for FYE 2018 as
presented.
SC16.03.23 VOTED to recommend to the 2016 Synod Assembly for approval a one and onehalf percent (1.5%) increase in the Baseline Salary for Rostered Leaders (Pastors, Diaconal
Ministers, and Associates in Ministry) of the Pacifica Synod for the year 2017. This action would
bring the current baseline salary (including salary and housing allowance) to $62,741.
SC16.03.22 VOTED to divide the 2016 assembly offering between the Global Mission
Engagement Fund and the Robert L. Miller Seminary Scholarship Fund.
SC16.03.18 VOTED to forward to the assembly for vote on the changes to the constitution
S10.07.02 and S10.07.03 as presented.
APPOINTMENTS AND ELECTIONS
SC15.05.06 VOTED to appoint the Rev. David Nagler of chair of the Justice and Evangelism
team.
SC15.08.10 VOTED to appoint the Rev. Jonathan Doolittle as chair as the Latino Ministry
Team.
SC15.08.11 VOTED to appoint the Rev. Becca Ajer as Worship Ministry Team chair.
SC15.08.18 VOTED to approve Elizabeth Novack as a member of the Warner Trust Committee.
SC15.08.23 VOTED to approve The Rev. Andy Taylor, the Rev. Larry Hand, LeRoy Loseke,
the Rev. Lara Martin, the Rev. Larry Koger, Paul Coulter, Gary Kakert, Donald Roberts, the
Rev. Linda Brown, the Rev. Kathryn Zurcher, Sabrina Vasta, The Rev. Leslie Mahraun, the Rev.
Kinndlee Lund as part of the Bishop Transition Committee and to seek other people to include
more diversity.
SC15.11.11 VOTED to appoint the Rev. Rich Ajer, Nick Cruz, the Rev. Dennis Laherty, and the
Rev. Jay Egenes as trustees of Prince of Peace Lutheran Church, Ontario, CA.
MISCELLANEOUS
SC15.05.05 VOTED to merge those ministry teams that deal with justice and advocacy into one
under the umbrella of “Justice and Evangelism.”
5 - 32
SC15.08.08 VOTED grant seminarian Steve Otte license for word and sacrament ministry at
Christ Lutheran in Orange.
SC15.08.12 VOTED to approve the Transition Benefit Policy for Eligible Synod Employees.
(one nay)
SC15.08.13 VOTED to empower the executive committee to set a sick leave policy that is in
compliance with California state law and includes 80 hour sick-leave for full-time employees
and a minimum of 24 hours in a 12 month period for part-time and seasonal employees.
SC15.08.14 VOTED to approve discontinuing accumulating any further make-up/comp time for
non-exempt employees. All overtime must be pre-approved (one abstain).
SC15.08.17 VOTED to approve the scholarship requests from Bonnie Zimmerman, Cindi Jones,
and Pat Wiedower.
SC15.08.21 VOTED to release the August 17 version of the Synod Profile to the Pacifica
Synod.
SC.15.11.05 VOTED to license Cyndi Jones for Word and Sacrament at Shepherd of the Valley
Lutheran Church, La Mesa on December 27, 2015 and January 3, 2016.
SC15.11.07 VOTED to license Steve Otte November 29, 2015 at SAWC in Carlsbad, Spirit
Harbor.
SC15.11.09 VOTED to approve the Pacifica Synod Employee Handbook with the exception of
section 4.3 “benefit” to be reworked and brought to council in March 2016.
SC15.11.13 VOTED to approve the Conflict of Interest Document.
SC15.11.15 VOTED to approve the process of using Oxford Document Management Group to
conduct background checks on the current nominees for bishop as well as contacting each
nominee’s respective bishop.
SC15.11.16 VOTED to assign responsibility to NTRMF to prepare and enhance the pamphlets
regarding funds for scholarships.
SC15.11.21 VOTED to affirm the Latino Ministry Strategic Plan goals: 1) Support and
Strengthen current ministries, 2) Provide resources for bilingual ministries and opportunities to
increase awareness and empathy with anglo congregations and latino culture, and 3) start one
new contextually based ministry in the next three years in the Pacifica Synod.
SC15.11.23 VOTED to give Bishop Murray Finck permission to craft a resolution on behalf of
the synod council in thanksgiving for Bishop Tsen.
SC16.03.05 VOTED to license Cyndi Jones for word and sacrament at St. Peter’s by the Sea
Lutheran Church, San Diego, on April 10 & 17 (1 abstain).
SC16.03.14 VOTED to approve the Human Resources Manual including section 4.3.
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PACIFICA SYNOD COUNCIL, 2015 - 2016
Officers
Term of Office – 4 Years
NAME
Bishop Murray Finck
1801 C Parkcourt Place
Santa Ana CA 92701
(714) 345-2791 C
(714) 692-2791 W
Email: [email protected]
Bishop, Third Term, 2016
POSITION
Bishop, Third Term
EXPIRES
2016
(6 year term)
Mr LeRoy Loseke
16065 Via de Las Palmas
Rancho Santa Fe, CA 92091
(858) 832-1420 H
(310) 487-7322 C
Vice President, First Term, 2016
Vice President, First Term
2016
Ms Rachel Line
8815 Tamberly Way #B
Santee CA 92071
(619) 871-0428 C
Secretary, Second Term, 2016
Secretary, Second Term
2016
Mr Gary Kakert
9565 Slater Ave No 20
Fountain Valley CA 92708
(714) 317-8010 H
Treasurer
Tresurer, appointed
2017
EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE
Bishop Murray D. Finck
Mr. LeRoy Loseke
Ms. Rachel Line
Mr. Gary Kakert
2–yr Terms:
The Rev. Laura Ziehl, 2016
Mr. Darrell Tuntland, Second, 2016
The Rev. Kim Krogstad, First, 2016
5 - 34
Ms Linda Blanche
28055 Grosse Point Drive
Menifee CA 92586
(951) 679-1518 W
(714) 357-5815 M
Raincross Conf. Rep, Second Term, 2018
Ms Angela Jackson
5522 Bergen St
San Diego CA 92117
(858) 740-7609
Lay at Large, First Term, 2016
Mr Paul Coulter
21621 Zamora Lane
Huntington Beach CA 92646
(714) 469-1262 H
(714) 463-1262 C
VACANT
Email:
Sonshine Conf. Rep, First Term, 2017
Mr Jeff Cours
417 Santa Dominga
Solano Beach CA 92075
(858) 245-7727 H
W. San Diego Conf. Rep, Second Term, 2018
Mr Nicholas Cruz
10432 Cordon Dr
Rancho Cucamonga CA 91701
(909) 989-4629 H
(909) 229-6488 C
(909) 747-8461 W
Mariposa Conf. Rep, First Term, 2016
The Rev Darin Johnson
5863 Hardy Ave
San Diego CA 92115
(619) 729-1278 C
(619) 583-3972 W
Clergy at Large, Second Term, 2018
The Rev Kim Krogstad
1207 Cypress Avenue
Redlands, CA 92373-5725
(714) 296-2178 C
(909) 793-2267 W
Big Bear Conf. Rep, First Term, 2017
Mr Rafael del Castillo
289 Kawaihae St No 222
Honolulu HI 96825
(808) 782-1262 C
Hukilau Conf. Rep, First Term, 2017
The Rev Lara Martin
200 S Linden Ave Apt 16H
Rialto CA 92376
(909) 685-8087 C
(909) 875-5760 W
Clergy at Large, Second Term, 2018
Ms Mar Gassner
10197 Ashford St
Rancho Cucamonga, CA 91730
(909) 262-0401 C
Mr Paul Moehlman
5351 Anthony Ave
Garden Grove CA 92845
(714) 606-3110 H
Lay at Large, Second Term, 2018
5 - 35
VACANT
Rejoice Conference, First Term, 2017
The Rev Laura Ziehl
925 Balour Dr
Encinitas CA 92024
(760) 814-5141 C
(760) 753-1026 W
Harvest Conf. Rep, Second Term, 2016
Mr Jeffrey Roberts
6746 Paseo del Vista
Carlsbad, CA 92009
(760) 212-4764 C
Youth Representative, First Term, 2017
The Rev Brad Stienstra
798 Dover Drive
Newport Beach, CA 92663
(951) 265-0727 C
(949) 548-3631 W
Saddleback Conf. Rep, First Term, 2018
Mr Darrell Tuntland
19286 Champion Lane
Huntington Beach CA 92648
(714) 960-0933 H
(714) 330-5018 C
Son & Surf Conf. Rep, Second Term, 2018
5 - 36
DEANS’ CONFERENCE REPORTS
Sonshine #1 and West San Diego #2 Conferences Joint Report
This past year the San Diego conferences welcomed Pastors Kate Schlecter (Atonement
Lutheran Church, San Diego) and Brian Oltman (Resurrection Lutheran Church, Coronado).
We also bid farewell and Godspeed to Pastor James West (Atonement Lutheran) and Pastor
Christine Higuera-Street (College Lutheran), who both moved to the Rocky Mountain
Synod.
In the wake of the closing of College Lutheran Church in June 2015, the CLC TransitionMaintenance-Discernment Task Force -- charged by the Pacifica Synod Council -- held
almost 20 meetings over the past year to work ultimately toward the goal of honoring
College’s 4 legacy ministries: Oromo Christian Fellowship, Agape House, God's Closet, and
The Cupboard at Calvary.
Regular weekly conference gatherings continue every Wednesday at the property, formerly
known as College Lutheran Church. Rostered leaders meet for text study, take turns
preaching and presiding, and then join around the table for conversation, education,
announcements and -- most importantly -- mutual support. The growing Oromo Christian
Fellowship, meanwhile, also continues to meet there weekly for worship, bible study, youth
group and work parties. Ensuring the Oromo worshipping community's survival and our
support for their ministry has been of utmost importance to our conferences.
During the 2015 summer, the rostered participants of our two San Diego conferences met
at a different location each week, including the North Island Naval Base Chapel, the
Survivors of Torture International offices, the United Methodist headquarters of SD in
Mission Valley, and the Episcopal Diocese of SD...in addition to many of our ELCA
congregations. We look forward to another "Summer Road Show" this summer, and we
might even make t-shirts with tour dates on the back.
Finally, Pastor Gloria Espeseth has announced her retirement at Gethsemane, San Diego.
We anticipate this transition in the coming year with gratefulness to God for her good and
faithful service. And we live in hope of God’s future for the Gethsemane family...and for all
of our San Diego partner congregations and ministries.
Respectfully submitted,
Dan Roschke, Dean, Sonshine Conference
Karen Marohn, Dean, West San Diego Conference
Harvest #3 Conference Report
Harvest Conference is a vital center of mission and ministry. God’s Spirit is moving us in
many and various ways. We are 9 congregations and 1 synodically authorized worshipping
community. We make an impact on the communities in which we find ourselves with our
partnerships:
• We are feeding people through Fill-A-Belly, the San Diego Food Bank, Interfaith
Community Services, Community Resource Center, Third Avenue Charitable
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•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
Organization (TACO), Open Door Meals, Brother Beanos, Meals With Love, Bread of Life
Ministries, Souper Bowl of Caring and our individual food collection and gleaning
efforts.
We participated in Operation Hope and our communities’ rotational shelter programs
getting families into housing.
We are involved with Stand Up for Kids, the Women’s Resource Center,
We send youth and adults to the ELCA Youth Gathering, on domestic and international
mission trips (Mexico, Cameroon and this coming summer, India)
We do Fair Trade.
Our kids and families attended events with LRCC such as Winter Retreat, Summer
Beach Camp, Confirmation Camp and Houseboats with Sonshine Ministries.
We have children’s, youth and young adult ministries and we incorporate children into
virtually everything we do, and whenever possible.
We have vibrant Sunday Schools, VBS, youth choirs, youth groups with lock-ins and
retreats, Bible studies, service projects, fellowship events and more.
We observed milestones, blessings first communicants, confirmands, new drivers and
graduates.
We use Stephen Ministers in 3 of our congregations and take care of each other in
myriads of ways.
We had “God’s Work, Our Hands” days of service on at least 8 different dates and
locations gleaning produce, packing hygiene kits, hosting a Walk For Water (supporting
LWR), painting, cleaning, making holiday placemats, sending letters, doing yard clean
up, trash removal, quilt making for LWR, making ‘plarn’ from plastic grocery bags for
sleeping mats, and general maintenance.
We have reached out through Pathways to Home Women’s Shelter in LA, and the
Worship Musicians Association in both San Diego and Orange County
We share ministries and activities with our Episcopalian, Disciples’ of Christ, Christian
Church, and other Lutheran neighbors.
In addition, Spirit of Joy in Ramona is having their groundbreaking after 24 years on
March 27th, Easter Sunday. They will begin grading, and wood framing over the next
couple of months. The congregation will be involved with Mission Builders, building the
Worship Center/Sanctuary and Fellowship Center/ fellowship, offices, kitchen, nursery,
and restrooms. King of Kings, Oceanside is in transition still, but moving toward the call
process. They are also embarking on the process of installing solar panels, hoping to halve
their electrical presence on the grid. Calvary, Solana Beach celebrated their 50th
Anniversary as a congregation and their first full year with their Rejoicing Spirits (RS)
Ministry for special needs families averaging 40-45 participants from all over San Diego
county including a no-shush worship experience, a shared meal and a fellowship activity
once a month.
With faith and hope,
The Rev. Karla Seyb-Stockton, Dean
Raincross #4 Conference Report
Just after the New Year began some family and friends of mine had a conversation about
what word would define their outlook in the coming year. If I were to give Raincross
conference and its communities a defining word it would be “hopefulness” . We as a
conference represent a geographical area that has rich diversity. Similarly the ministries of
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our conference are equally diverse in their approach to meeting the spiritual and physical
needs of the people. Getting outside the walls of our churches seemed to be a powerful
occurrence this year in particular.
One aspect of this can be attributed it our and the synod’s ongoing mission to do outreach.
But another aspect of it for us is based on our social context. Many of us minister in
communities that have never truly recovered from the economic woes of the past few years
and in the spirit of hopefulness our congregations have sought to respond with acts of
radical hospitality and generosity toward those in need. At Eden Lutheran in Riverside over
2500 dollars in grocery cards were given to any person walking through the doors hungry.
Hygiene kits for homeless brothers and sisters were also offered to help people stay clean
and healthy as best as possible living on the streets. Eden also participates heavily in the
local branch of Lutheran Social Services and with community partners to address issues
related to poverty and injustice.
Taking to heart Jesus’ commandment to always make room for the “little ones” to come and
be blessed, Peace Lutheran in Corona has sought to create a safe and caring environment
with their Peaceful Beginnings preschool. If a congregation I am apart of has a preschool
we might need to see if they can let us share that name.
They have obviously made an impression in the community in efforts to help the formation
of future peacemakers because the program grew from 7 to 40 students this year!
In my congregation Spirit of Joy Hemet we had the privilege this year of partnering with
Trinity Lutheran Hemet for a free community meal that turned into not just fellowship and
hospitality for anyone who entered the doors, but an office filled with donated food for one
of our local food pantries. This is bedsides the kitchen full of spaghetti dinner fixings that
went to Valley Restart, a local residential housing facility that helps families transition out
of homelessness.
There is not enough time to share the many stories I have heard and witnessed this year
rooted in remaining hopeful and working hard to live out the Gospel in every way. Thank
you to all the congregations in our conference for your loving presence in your
communities and dedication to God’s work!
God’s Peace,
Pastor Brian Foxworth, Dean
Big Bear #5 Conference Report
The Big Bear Conference stretches across much of the Inland Empire’s Riverside and San
Bernardino Counties, from the San Bernardino valley to the mountains, through two
mountain passes, and to the high and low deserts. Our boundaries stretch even further
informally, as we regularly invite clergy from Mariposa Conference, on San Bernardino’s
West End (and even into LA County) to join us. The area is diverse geographically,
ethnically, and economically, including largely well-to-do retirement communities and
some of the poorest neighborhoods in the country.
In this diverse setting, with many miles between our congregations, the pastors meet
regularly, approximately once a month, in addition to informal meetings, to support and
encourage each other.
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Hope Lutheran in Palm Desert continues to grow, with inspiring worship and programs
that attract both snowbirds and year round desert dwellers. The congregation is in the
midst of a building project that will open up new possibilities for ministry. St. John’s in
Palm Desert, after much time in transition, is excited to have called Rev. Jennifer Shaw as
their new pastor. We remain excited at the possibility of a new mission start in the Palm
Springs area.
Both Shepherd of the Desert in Barstow and Faith Lutheran in Yucaipa share pastors with
local Episcopal congregations. This is one of the exciting possibilities made possible by the
ELCA’s ecumenical partnerships.
Immanuel Prince of Peace in Twenty Nine Palms and Faith in Joshua Tree are in the interim
process. Spirit of Peace in Big Bear City, as of the publication of this notebook, is also in
transition. Church of the Cross in Rialto, a congregation in transition, shares a pastor with
Gloria Dei in Fontana (also in transition).
First Evangelical Lutheran Church in Redlands sponsored the “Homie Christmas, ” at San
Bernardino’s Central City Lutheran Mission, a Christmas party with music, food, and an
opportunity for all of the men in the shelter to get some new clothes.
Our Savior in Banning undertook a construction project with some nice upgrades to their
campus.
Trinity in Victorville continues to grow as they engage exciting new ministry opportunities
in the community.
Central City Lutheran Mission, San Bernardino merged with Lutheran Social Services of
Southern California. CCLM is the home of a wide variety of social service ministries,
including a men’s shelter that houses up to 70 men a night, a kitchen that serves 3 meals a
day, and an after school program.
Spirit of Hope and Lutheran Church of Our Savior, San Bernardino, continue to partner with
each other and with CCLM, including a new project that will provide health and related
education, as well as diapers and food to families in one of the poorest cities in the country.
The three San Bernardino based ministries continue to look for opportunities to partner
together to bring about change for their congregations and their community.
The ministries of the Big Bear Conference seek both to share the Good News of Jesus Christ
and to meet people’s needs, in an area where the needs are great. In many of our
communities, the resources are few. Please keep us and the people in our communities in
your prayers.
Grace and peace,
Rev. Jay Egenes, Dean
Saddleback #7 Conference Report
The Saddleback conference clergy continue to meet on a regular basis at Mission Lutheran
Church for either discussion or to listen to presentations. This past year we have hosted
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speakers such as Dr. George Bell of Lutheran Social Services of Southern California and Rev.
Tim Philips the D.E.M for Pacifica Synod and had conversations on such topics from Death
and Dying to developing trends in Lutheran worship.
Transitions in pastoral leadership have occurred at Newport Harbor Lutheran--thank you
Brad for your great collegiality and service in our conference--which is under interim
status. There is also a change in dean as Brenda Bos will be recommended to begin
serving as of the Synod Assembly. Jeff Frohner, the current dean has served for 6 years and
is termed out.
The Rev. Jeff Frohner, Dean
Son & Surf #8 Conference Report
2015 was a great year for the Son and Surf Conference. Churches in the conference held
quarterly confirmation events during the year that culminated with a celebration of our
baptisms at an event at Bolsa Chica Beach. We also participated in a joint service project
for “God’s work, our hands.” We collected food at local grocery stories and donated the
food to the new LSS office on the campus of St. Olaf Lutheran Church in Garden Grove.
Plans were being made to start a pericope study twice a month at the Synod office on the
1st and 3rd Wednesday of each month.
We welcomed two new pastors to the conference: Kindlee Lund to King of Glory in
Fountain Valley and Wes Menke to St. Peter’s in Santa Ana. Mark Will retired as pastor of
Bethlehem Lutheran in Los Alamitos and the congregation is currently being served by
interim pastor Richard Rollefson. Carol Dyer-Parmeter resigned at Christ Lutheran in
Orange. Also, Calvary Lutheran in Santa Ana sold its property and is now worshiping on the
campus of St. Peter’s in Santa Ana.
The conference meets on the third Wednesday of each month at the Synod office in Santa
Ana.
In Christ,
The Rev. Brian Taylor, Dean
Rejoice #9 Conference Report
The Rejoice Conference consists of 17 worshipping communities located in East Los
Angeles County and North Orange County. By number of worshipping communities it the
largest of the 10 conferences in the Pacifica Synod. The congregations in this conference
reside and serve in a rather diverse way. Like many congregations across denominational
lines, capacity for ministry is challenged with what is perceived to be limited resources,
shifting cultural realities, and how we just go about doing church.
The people who make up our congregations are committed followers of Jesus and we yearn
for the work of the Holy Spirit to poke and prod us to new understandings of the Great
Commission. Some new strategies are beginning to emerge. Three ministries in the
conference are participating in the ELCA’s Building Missional Capacity process continues.
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They are: St. Andrew, Whittier, Shepherd of the Hills, Whittier, and St. Paul, Fullerton.
Shepherd of the Hills and St. Paul will be formalizing a partnership committing to a one
ministry, two campus expression.
Thank you to Pastor Anne-Grethe Krogh Nielson (Danish, Yorba Linda) and Pastor Cate
Luehr (Emmanuel, La Habra) for coordinating another educational opportunity this past
year (Oct 2015) on the catechism. The event was hosted at the Danish Lutheran Church and
featured two speakers, Pastor Brenda Bos (Christ, San Clemente) and Pastor Ron Baeslar
(Retired).
Thai Shepherd has expanded to a second ministry within our conference. Their base
continues at Shepherd of the Hills, Whittier where they gather on Sunday afternoons. They
now also have a gathering on Sunday mornings at St. Paul, Fullerton, known as Thai St.
Paul.
Transitions: We welcome two pastors to new calls in our conference: Pastor Angela
Denker at Messiah Lutheran Church, Yorba Linda, and Pastor Michael Schneider at Good
Shepherd, Buena Park.
In a culture that is obsessed with what the future holds, I often respond that my Crystal Ball
is broken. I keep sending it in for repair but it keeps coming back broken. Yes we need to
set goals and develop strategies for the journey ahead. Calling on the Holy Spirit to help
guide and shape is essential. Yet even the best of plans need wiggle room for the fluidity of
the moment. The Holy Spirit can prepare us for these as well!
Should I have the privilege to write this report for the 2017 Assembly, it is my hope that I
can write about a continuing growth in partnerships for ministry for the congregations and
ministries of the Rejoice Conference!
Respectfully Submitted In Christ,
The Rev. Tom Goellrich, Dean
Hukilau #10 Conference Report
The Hukilau Conference consists of 10 Congregations on three islands and several
specialized ministries.
In addition to the programs and activities each of our individual congregations are involved
in, many of our congregations find ways to cooperate with each other to help spread God’s
Love far and wide. Among the joint ministries are:
 OYEA: A Joint Youth Ministry support by all 7 of the Oahu Congregations
 One Pot One Hope: A feeding program that reaches out on a monthly basis for the
homeless
 Wounded Warriors: Pastor Steve Jensen, a Retired Military Chaplain continues to lead a
vibrant outreach and support for many of the members of our Military that have
suffered from a variety of injuries and difficulties due to their service to our country.
The Clergy continue to meet each month for a time of Continuing Education and mutual
support for each other. We also have two meetings a year (One in the Spring and one in
the Fall) where representatives from each of the congregations gather together for a day of
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worship, education, celebration, and Fun! Each member congregation contributes to a
special fund to help defray the cost of the neighbor island congregation Pastors and
members who must fly to Oahu for these meetings.
2015 has been a time of transition for several of our congregations. Joy of Christ (Pearl
City) and Christ (Mililani) continue to partner in word and sacrament ministry. Two of our
longest serving Pastor (Pastor Paul Kirchner from Lihue Lutheran, and Pastor David
Krueger from Kihei Lutheran) both retired on the same day. We also welcomed Pastor
Kathryn Zurcher (St. John Lutheran, Kailua) and Rev. Anke FLohr who returned to serve as
the Executive Director of Pacific Health Ministry.
Respectfully Submitted,
The Rev. Ruth Peterson, Dean
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Agape House – Lutheran-Episcopal Campus Ministry at SDSU
5863 Hardy Avenue, San Diego, CA 92115
The Rev. Darin Johnson, Campus Pastor
619.583.3972
www.agapehousesdsu.org
[email protected]
New Era of Campus Ministry
Thanks to an award from the Lilly Endowment, this spring we launched “Mentoring
Leaders: Creating Spaces for Community.” Building partnerships with congregations and
agencies, this is a five-year initiative to develop
integrated, sustainable ministries of:

Spiritual Formation

Vocational Discernment

Contextual Theological Education

Servant-Leadership Development

Building Faith Community

Renewing Local Mission
Diakonia
[The Agape Table extends Christ’s circle of care.]
We are part of the shift from programs to
relationships as our number one priority. Helping shape and coordinate this initiative, Dr.
Melissa James has joined us part-time as our Diaconal
[Making tamales builds loving community.]
Minister. The diaconate has particular relevance to our
context for ministry as we are challenged to connect people
who are often already disengaged from conventional church
life.
Guided by the example of Jesus Christ, the Ministry of
Word and Service supports human flourishing through humble
service, creates safe spaces for caring faith community, and
advocates for Christ’s reign of justice, reconciliation, and
wholeness.
Melissa also brings expertise in higher education, vocational
discernment with students, and project development.
While funding campus ministry is an increasing challenge, grace and joy overcome anxiety
as we engage with people hungry for hope. When we are tempted to fear or to react, Christ
keeps us focused on being proactive and
creative. Friends gather friends, and we equip
others to serve and befriend without strings,
trusting the Spirit to bind us together in
Christ.
Dreaming a New Home for Agape
[In solidarity with marginalized students]
Blessed to have a place in the heart of this growing
campus, we are also challenged by a building whose old
bones have worn out. Thanks to College Lutheran Church’s legacy, now we are able to dream of
putting more resources into ministry rather than continual repairs. If you would like to leave a
legacy by helping us rebuild for ministry with new generations, please contact Pastor Darin
Johnson at 619.583.3972 or [email protected].
Thank you, Pacifica Synod, for supporting campus outreach!
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800 328 468 augsburgfortress.org
Ten Things You Might Not Know about Augsburg Fortress
Spring 2016
1.
We publish a number of innovative print and video faith formation curricula.
Congregations using the Revised Common Lectionary find Whirl to be a perfect fit for
connecting education to worship throughout the church year. And, in 2016, we will
launch Whirl Classroom for congregations wanting to focus on key Bible stories and
themes! wearesparkhouse.org
2.
Sunday school planning has never been easier than with Sparkhouse Online, our webbased subscription resource for our children’s faith formation resources. Your
congregation may subscribe to one curriculum, several, or all with this innovative online
resource. wearesparkhouse.org/kids/SHOSS
3.
In 2016, we’re introducing Frolic—early childhood resources designed to help support the
youngest children in your congregation. Stay connected with families through a
monthly newsletter that features faith development content for the first three years of
a child’s life. Frolic also includes a nursery guide, parent classes, board books and
picture books, the Frolic First Bible, music CDs, and more.
sample.wearesparkhouse.org/frolic
4.
Last summer, we launched Colaborate Lutheran Confirmation, a curriculum that
invites students to ask their toughest questions and work together to find answers.
Pastors, youth directors, and confirmands are reporting back with delightful success
stories! wearesparkhouse.org/teens/colaborate/lutheran
5.
We know that many young families want their children to know the stories of the Bible
and have a vibrant Christian faith life, but they don’t always find the time for church or
Sunday school. Sparkhouse Family is our newest venture to help young families
integrate faith with their busy home lives. sparkhouse.org
6.
A popular new series from Fortress Press is Dietrich Bonhoeffer Works: Reader’s
Edition. The Bonhoeffer Works content in a more accessible and affordable format for
use in small groups or by individual readers. fortresspress.com/dbw
7.
Reformation 500 Sourcebook: Anniversary Resources for Congregations
8.
As communities of faith reach out to ecumenical and interfaith neighbors, two new books
provide excellent guidance: Honoring Our Neighbor’s Faith: A Lutheran Perspective on
Faith Traditions in America, Revised Edition and The Fear of Islam: An Introduction to
Islamophobia in the West.
9.
We offer free webinars every week on a variety of topics related to congregational life.
gatherlearnlead.org
10.
Want to learn more? Sign up for our free eNewsletters at:
a. augsburgfortress.org
wearesparkhouse.org
fortresspress.com
(June 2016) will provide many resources to assist congregations in observing
the 500th anniversary of the Reformation in 2017.
a. We also have several new Reformation resources for adults and children.
reformation500.instapage.com and lutheranreformation500.org
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and Community S ervices
Meeting needs through excellence in human services
SYNOD ASSEMBLY REPORT - 2016
www.frontporch.net
Now in its eighteenth year, Front Porch, created in 1999 by California Lutheran Homes and
Community Services, Pacific Homes, and the Foundation to Assist California Teachers, whose
respective constituencies were of Methodist and California Teacher's Association backgrounds,
continues to preserve, strengthen and expand not for profit missions by assuring two necessities for
success: (a) resources for effective service delivery, and (b) the ability to be "doing good," while also
"doing well" [Mission AND Margin ] ! Since inception, four other organizations have chosen Front
Porch as the place to preserve and strengthen their missions; they are: National Housing
Ministries and Brookmore Housing Corporation (Baptist affiliated); Sunny View Lutheran
Communities and Services [Sunny View Retirement Community and Sunny View-West (Cupertino,
CA)]; and the Disciples Home Corporation (Disciples of Christ) - renamed to Alhambra Services
Corporation, which supports affordable housing and the Front Porch Center for Innovation and
Wellbeing.
The Front Porch model retains each participating organization's corporate status, religious (or
other) affiliation, identity, constituent base, unique program capacities, endowments, and other
philanthropy.
Today, the Front Porch system has grown to include eight organizations directly utilizing Front Porch
as their parent system and 12 other not for profit organizations utilizing Front Porch [i.e. CARING
Housing Ministries] as their management agent.
Front Porch is Southern California's largest nonprofit provider of senior living communities.
Headquartered in Glendale CA, the organization is made up of 10 full-service retirement
communities in California: Carlsbad By The Sea (Carlsbad); Casa de Manana (La Jolla); Claremont
Manor (Claremont); Fredericka Manor (Chula Vista); Kingsley Manor (Los Angeles); Sunny View
Retirement Community (Cupertino); Villa Gardens (Pasadena); Vista del Monte (Santa Barbara);
Walnut Village (Anaheim); and Wesley Palms (San Diego). Front Porch also operates two
independent (55+) retirement communities in Louisiana and Florida, and developed [and spun off] the
first U.S. style active adult retirement community near Puerto Vallarta, Mexico, under the name
Luma. The Front Porch affiliate, CARING Housing Ministries, manages 25 affordable housing
communities in California and Arizona.
Because of the financial strength of Front Porch, many of the resources of California Lutheran Homes
that used to be required to sustain community operations are now available to pursue affordable
housing expansion in cooperation with congregations [see Affordable Housing Section below as well
as qualitative programming in behalf of the CLH communities operated through Front Porch, including:
CHAPLAINCY Chaplaincy is available to all California Lutheran Homes' communities and to other
communities that have partnered with Front Porch.
CENTER FOR SPIRITUALITY AND AGING The California Lutheran Homes' Center for Spirituality and
Aging continues to bring immeasurable value to the lives of those we serve, and to have significant
impact upon the entire long-term-care delivery system in California and beyond. The Center is
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responsible for research, education and advocacy in the areas of spirituality in long-term
care/retirement living and community-based services. The Center is under the direction of The Rev.
Nancy Gordon and its resources
are available to congregations and synods/district. During 2015 the Center hosted the International
Conference on Aging and Spirituality.
THE CLH AUXILIARY For decades, the CLH Auxiliary has been a leader in improving resident life at
CLH communities through volunteerism. Now, the Auxiliary reaches out to affordable housing
communities, as well, including those sponsored by CLH and those managed through Front Porch. The
Auxiliary continues to be a major provider of volunteers.
AFFORDABLE HOUSING/LEGACY MINISTRIES Long a part of the CLH mission, affordable housing
remains a primary emphasis for CLH in partnership with Front Porch. CLH serves as a sponsor for
South Bay Retirement Residence in Compton [LCMS], and St. John's Manor in Glendale, AZ [ELCA].
Additionally, CLH supports the work of CARING Housing Ministries through Front Porch, which includes
25 affordable housing communities serving the elderly, low income families, persons with
developmental challenges, and persons with chronic mental illness.. CLH and Front Porch are willing
and ready to work with Lutheran congregations and Synods and Districts in numerous geographies to
utilize land resources for the provision of affordable housing as "Legacy Ministries." CLH maintains a
revolving affordable housing "seed" fund with capital funding to initiate affordable housing in
cooperation with congregations; most recently the former St. Paul's Lutheran Church in Monrovia and
Grace Lutheran Church in Santa Barbara. I f interested, contact Bill Jennings at:
[email protected] or 818-254-4122
THE FRONT PORCH GALLERY The Gallery was initiated by CLH in 2002 and exists to showcase the
creative talents of residents, staff, and members of the local communities in which CLH and Front Porch
services are provided. The Gallery is an example of how CLH extends beyond its original mission of
providing senior housing, health care, and related services to enriching lives by celebrating people's
artistic expression.
LUTHERAN PLANNED GIVING PARTNERSHIP Throughout 2015 CLH remained a primary "funder"
and charter member of the Lutheran Planned Giving Partnership, building stewardship across the
Pacifica and Southwest California Synods.
CENTER FOR INNOVATION AND WELLBEING The Center was birthed by a grant from CLH in 2007.
It is designed to create, support, and enhance emerging technologies in the areas of health and
residential services. The Center is involved in building public-private partnerships to fulfill its mission.
Front Porch continues to breathe new life into what CLH has done well for sixty-eight years. The CLH
future has been secured for decades to come, at a time when many social ministry organizations are
wrestling with survival. THANKS be to God!
Robert Chillison, Board Chair
Audited Financial Statements
Total Net Assets:
Front Porch and Affiliates
The Rev. Gary L. Wheeler, President/CEO
3-31-2015
$ 14,561,476
212,446,000
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It is a delight to update you about the work of California Lutheran University as we continue to
raise global leaders who discover their purpose and transform their community and the world.
Indeed, this is the primary way that we serve this church and embody our mission as a university of
the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America.
History was made when the Regals Volleyball team swept to a National Division III championship
and became the first Cal Lutheran team to win a NCAA title. We celebrate that three of the four
finalist teams were universities of the ELCA--Carthage, Wittenberg, and Cal Lutheran.
The beautiful Student Union opened this fall and is a gathering place for students, faculty and staff
alike. The Union is home to a new Veterans Resource Center. Following Commencement in May,
we will break ground on the Rolland Art Center that will house the Art and Multimedia
departments.
We have celebrated rapid growth in the diversity of our undergraduate, professional, and graduate
student bodies that increasingly reflects the socioeconomic and ethnic diversity of southern
California. The U.S. Department of Education has recently designated Cal Lutheran as an Eligible
Institution under Title III and Title V programs, thus meeting the federal definition of a Hispanic
Serving Institution. The designation offers a pathway to significant grant funding and positions the
university to support Hispanic students in vibrant ways.
To strategically connect the work of Campus Ministry, Congregational Relations, Seminary
Relations, Theology and Christian Leadership, and the university’s interfaith effort, the new Division
of Mission and Identity has been created. Together we seek to tell the Cal Lutheran story to an
ever-widening audience and steward conversations about the university’s mission, identity, and
values in this time and place.
Founders Day included the announcement of the Carlson Endowed Chair in Youth and Family
Ministry, a generous gift that makes permanent the commitment to offer academic coursework in
Children, Youth and Family Ministry. A new initiative fueled by the chair is “The Vine: Cultivating
Leadership in Youth Ministry”, three sessions of professional development for students and church
leaders in asset-based community development, relational ministry, and social media as a tool for
ministry. www.callutheran.edu/thevine
Cal Lutheran will be the summer 2017 site of the Western States Youth Gathering, welcoming high
school students and adults from Regions One, Two, Three, and Four. Plan now to bring students
from your congregations. www.wsyg.com
The university continues to provide the “Executive Skills for Pastors: Learning from the world of the
MBA” at Pacific Lutheran Theological Seminary, Spirit in the Desert Retreat Center, and Cal
Lutheran. Short learning videos for congregations on a variety of timely topics are now available
linking the resources of the university to the needs of congregations.
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You can learn about all these things and more by visiting the Cal Lutheran and Pacific Lutheran
Theological Seminary tables or by visiting us online at www.callutheran.edu and www.plts.edu. We
are your Lutheran university in the west. Your commitment to and involvement in the university
makes all the difference as we seek to educate leaders for a global society who are strong in
character and judgment, confident in their identity and vocation, and committed to service and
justice.
Rev. Melissa Maxwell-Doherty
Vice President, Mission and Identity
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Coaching Ministry Report
Rev. Anton (Tony) Scheer
It is an honor to serve the Pacifica Synod as Coaching Coordinator.
We are still here! If you have not already experienced the value of professional coaching in
promoting the work of Christ, you need to talk to one of us on this ministry team. It is disappointing
to share with you that very few church councils or rostered leaders have yet taken advantage of
having a coach walk alongside them through the challenges of ministry. We are excited and ready to
serve this synod as well-trained coaches. At the end of 2015, there are seven specialized coaches in
areas such as stewardship; mission development and re-development; hospice and grief support;
“From Promise to Practice” –baptismal reflective coaching; LIFT or SEMP training, and natural
church development (NCD).
The other great news is that there are now four of us who have completed the full ELCA
Certified Coaches Training, with others very close to accomplishing this level. This year, as the
Coaching Coordinator for the Pacifica Synod, I have completed additional training to become one of
the carefully chosen Licensed Coach Trainers for the ELCA. In 2016, all Licensed Trainers will also
be fully credentialed through the International Coaching Federation (ICF), which regulates
professional coaching throughout the country. ICF coaches are among the most highly qualified
professional coaches for industries and corporations – and churches – throughout the world.
As you can see, there have been some great strides in the ELCA to demonstrate the
accountability and professionalism of our trained coaches. The ELCA is so committed to establishing
a coaching culture for all areas of the greater church and for all church leaders that they are making it
possible for all ELCA coaches to attain accredited, professional status. By working with a coach,
you, your church’s leaders, your councils and your ministry teams will utilize your innate ability to
attain your goals. And ELCA coaches will also hold you accountable along the way. We are not
teachers, gurus, mentors, or counselors – we are fellow Christian leaders who can help you discern
what God wants you to do, and then help you do it!
Your ELCA coach has at least 60 hours of coaching experience prior to certification, and
completes scheduled continuing education to assure clients of top-notch skills. The goal is to have all
ELCA coaches complete accreditation so that our Synod can get some of the best coaching available!
It is important that everyone know that coaching is meant to be a ministry where committed lay
leaders are trained to support churches in our Synod. If you are a lay leader who would like to be
involved in coaching please contact us!
Our Coaching Priorities:
 By 2017, to train at least ten coaches to serve specialized areas (SEMP, congregational
redevelopment, NCD, call discernment, and first call support).
 In 2016 and beyond, to create clarity and awareness at the synod and congregational level of
how coaching can help accomplish the mission and ministry of our synod and congregations.
We will do this through attending Conference Deans’ meetings, Synod workshops, church
council meetings (by invitation), and also by submitting coaching articles to Pacifica Light,
The Lutheran, and church newsletters (by invitation).
 To ensure that all Pacifica Synod congregations and leaders have the opportunity to work
with a trained coach.
 To partner with the Synod staff, council, leaders and congregations to use and develop new
resources to strengthen our understanding of what it means to be a missional church together.
Current Active ELCA Trained Coaches:
Rostered Leaders:
Pastor Tony Scheer (cert.)
Pastor Hitoshi Adochi
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Lay Leaders: Deenna Eley (cert)
Valerie Schmidt
Tracy Vevia (cert.)
Joanne Larson (cert)
I-LERT ASSEMBLY REPORT 2016
I-LERT is a collaborative ministry of the Southwest California and
Pacifica Synods of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America and the
Pacific Southwest District of the Lutheran Church-Missouri Synod. ILERT demonstrates Christ's compassion for people by promoting hope, healing, and wholeness
for disaster survivors.
I-LERT is connected to Lutheran Disaster Response
(LDR) through Lutheran Social Services of the
Southern California (LSS-SC) headquartered in Santa
Ana. We also work with World Relief and Human Care
through the Pacific Southwest District office.
I-LERT focuses on ministry in the Southern California area, from Hawaii to western Arizona.
I-LERT’s Goals:
 Raise awareness in Lutheran congregations about the importance of disaster preparedness
and response.
 Enlist and engage congregations to provide spiritual support to those recovery from a
disaster.
 Identify the needs and capabilities of the diverse populations within the region to respond
to disaster.
 To provide training for congregations through the Prepare to C.A.R.E. program
 Establish County I-LERTs to serve as communication links between the Southern California
I-LERT and their communities.
HIGHLIGHTS
We are updating the PREPARE TO C.A.R.E. program: workbooks, a CD including planning
templates, charts, and web links.
Check out the web-site http://www.i-lert.org/
The Team continues to meet, with our Judicatory Leaders - Bishops Finck, Bishop Erwin, and
President Stoterau, providing leadership with the Team.
The LDR Program Director is Pastor Michael Stadie, http://www.ldr.org/
LOOKING AHEAD 2016
NATIONAL PREPAREDNESS MONTH - I-LERT will be working to help congregations be aware and
involved in September, 2016.
GREAT CALIFORNIA SHAKEOUT - On Thursday,
October 20th at 10:20 a.m., millions of people
throughout the state will participate in the 2016 Great
California ShakeOut earthquake drill! Will you, your
family and your Church be involved?
Re. Milo Ken Anderson, I-LERT Chair
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LATINO MINISTRY TEAM
This year the Latino Ministry team reenergized and repurposed itself to meet our ministry needs in
our changing environment. With the help of Rubin Duran at our Synod assembly we took to the
mission of rewriting the Latino Ministry Strategy. We hope that this becomes a working document
the gives direction for our ministry together.
Called to be a Multicultural Church, we journey together to proclaim the Good News of
reconciliation in Jesus Christ among the Latino and Anglo communities. Our charge from the synod
council is to:
 To support and strengthen existing Latino ministries in the Pacifica Synod.
 To develop new ministries among the Latino community.
 To challenge congregations of the Pacifica Synod to become aware of the Latino ministry
opportunities in their midst to be transformed through mutual intentional relationships.
 To provide resources that encourages the Pacifica Synod to grow in understanding and to
facilitate the ability to proclaim the Gospel of Jesus Christ within the Latino community.
The vision of the Latino Area Ministry Strategy of Pacifica Synod is to fulfill the Great Commission
given to us by Jesus Christ by building the structure in the Pacifica Synod that will provide for our
leaders to be on the forefront of resource development for worship and relevant justice issues. We
desire to support our current ministry sites and begin dynamic new ministries so that we will
expand cross cultural understanding and guide our communities as we transition from first
generation ministries to multidimensional ministries across generational, language and other
cultural lines. We will inspire lay and clergy leaders to emerge from our communities for the work
of the Gospel.
As a Multi-cultural Church, we seek harmony by blending our Lutheran and cultural traditions. It is
necessary that we boldly proclaim that we are “Saved by Grace” because this is countercultural in
many Latino communities. The Life, Death and Resurrection of Jesus are core to our understanding
that salvation is through Grace by Faith. We are free to proclaim this message (Galatians 5:1) “For
freedom Christ has set us free.” As a Latino ministry of the ELCA we seek to maintain our principals
through Evangelism, the use of diverse liturgies, our universal legacy based in God’s Word Jesus
Christ, and our Lutheran confessional heritage.
There are six active Latino Ministry sites for the Pacifica Synod:
St. Peter’s in Santa Ana – Pastor Wes Menke
First Lutheran in Vista – Pastor Ramon Zarate
First Ontario – Pastor Auggie Aviles
Clairemont Lutheran – Pastor Nathan Allen and Pastor Jon Doolittle
St. Mark’s in Chula Vista – Pastor Alicia Garcia and Pastor Ron Hovick
Our Savior’s Lutheran – Pastor Maria Santa Cruz
Money was requested to be distributed to the following ministry sites from the Latino Ministry
Trust by the synod Council:
Central City Lutheran Mission for developing/ ongoing Spanish language worship and ministry
Passed Clairemont (San Diego) for the development of a mission festival/ celebration in San Diego
Our Savior’s (San Diego) neighborhood outreach and children’s ministry supplies
Respectfully submitted, Rev. Dr. Jonathan Doolittle
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Dear Brothers & Sisters in Christ,
I have been on board as President/CEO for three months, learning a lot about LSS and the extraordinary
needs of poor families that live throughout Southern California. Together we have an enormous job to
fulfil our mission to break the cycle of poverty through progressive social services.
On a typical day of service, LSS helps over 5,000 impoverished individuals through our 40+ programs
at over 20 locations in six different counties. This array of services is only possible with the assistance
of over 1000 volunteers, the majority of who come from our local Lutheran congregations and youth
groups. Last year volunteers gave over 85,000 hours to service. Thank you for serving alongside us, we
couldn’t do it without you! We need your continued support – through prayer, benevolent gifts and your
physical involvement & manpower.
LSS celebrates our Seventieth (70th) Anniversary this year. Please join in the celebration of that
milestone as we rededicate to the work that needs to be accomplished! I love to visit congregations,
visiting, saying thank you and learning about what is happening with your local outreach ministries.
Service Highlights:
Homeless Services: Central City Lutheran Mission (CCLM) merged into LSS in July. This action
strengthens the ministry and extends the outreach of both organizations. Located in San Bernardino,
CCLM houses 70 residents each night and also operates living quarters for several at-risk male
populations. At a grass-root level CCLM offers much needed help for an impoverished and under-served
community with many programs such as after school programs, hot meals for anyone who is hungry, a
thrift store with inexpensive clothing and other supplies.
Community Care Centers: Over 75,000 individuals are served every year, through the 7 care centers
throughout Southern California that provide grass-root emergency services, food pantry, clothes closets
and daily basic needs.
Family Support Services: LSS provides a full array of effective, high quality community based social
services to over 5,000 people every year in programs reducing suicide rates, therapeutic counseling for
abused children, teaching parenting skills to young parents, vocational counseling, tutoring high
schoolers, senior companionships and community support groups, individual counseling and case
management, low income and supportive housing, and community outreach opportunities to engage
developmentally disabled adults.
LSS Foundation: The purpose is threefold: a.) educate Lutheran constituencies/general public about the
LSS ministries; b.) encourage/solicit financial support for LSS; and c.) receive/hold/ manage endowed
gifts and bequests
A Deputy Sheriff, the Department of Parks & Recreation, and Lutheran Social Services: What does this group have in
common? God used all three to restore a person’s life. The officer issued a citation to a homeless man sleeping in a
public park, and then told him about LSS. Over a period of time our staff gave the man food, hot showers and the love of
Jesus Christ. Eventually he got back
on his feet, found a place to live and a car to drive and is now employed as a Case Worker at one of our Community Care
Centers.
For 70 years LSS has interacted with the civic arena to help further the Kingdom of God.
Thank you all for the warm welcome I have received so far, it is truly a joy to be here and involved in
the LSS Ministry. “Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers & sisters of
mine, you did for me.” Matthew 25:40. I look forward to working together with you to strengthen our
joint ministry and expand the number lives we can touch together in the name of Jesus Christ.
In His Service,
“Lutheran Social Services of Southern California
celebrates the love of Christ for all people through acts of service.
Ronald Drews, President/CEO
Change of Address: 2101 E. 4th Street, Unit 240A, Santa Ana, CA 92705
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LSSCommunityCare.org
The Mission Investment Fund (MIF), a financial ministry of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in
America, makes low-interest loans to established
ELCA congregations, new-start congregations and
ELCA-related ministries for building projects.
Established congregations use MIF loans to
renovate, expand or relocate. New-start
congregations rely on MIF loans to buy land and
construct their first church buildings. ELCA-related
ministries use MIF loans for a variety of capital
projects.
At year-end 2015, MIF had 830 loans outstanding,
totaling $492 million.
To fund these loans, MIF offers a portfolio of
investments for congregations, their members,
synods and ELCA-related ministries to purchase.
MIF investments offer adjustable- or fixed-rate
terms and earn interest at competitive rates.
At year-end 2015, MIF investments by
congregations, their members, synods and ELCArelated ministries totaled $464 million. The Mission Investment Fund is a financially strong and
stable organization, with a record of steady, controlled growth. With total assets of $663
million and net assets of $194 million at year-end 2015, MIF maintains a capital ratio of 29
percent—positioning MIF in the top tier of well-capitalized church extension funds.
MIF Investments and Loans in the Pacifica Synod
As of December 31, 2915:


21 Mission Investment Fund loans, with a balance of $8,634,466, are at work throughout
the synod.
Investments in the Mission Investment Fund by 105 individuals, 53 congregations, 3
ministries and the synod totaled $8,440,400.
MIF representative
Joel S. Wudel, Regional Manager: Tel. (773) 682-1765; email: [email protected]
Mission Investment Fund | 8765 West Higgins Road | Chicago, Illinois 60631
Tel: 877-886-3522 | Web: mif.elca.org
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New, Transformation and Redevelopment Mission Fund
The New, Transformation and Redevelopment Mission Fund (“NTRMF”) Committee
makes recommendations for expenditures of certain Synod funds that can be used to
support new ministries and ministries that are in the Transformation or Redevelopment
process. The NTRMF has also provided funding for Synod staff support.
For the fiscal year ended January 31, 2016, the NTRMF budgeted $178,000 to support
ten (10) new, transforming and redeveloping congregations or other ministries within the
Synod, including The Table in Orange County; a new mission start in Palm Springs;
Central City Lutheran Mission’s worshiping community and homeless shelter in San
Bernardino; Thai Shepherd of the Hills in Whittier; Oromo Ethiopian in San Diego;
Church of the Dream Builders (Korean) in Anaheim; Glory (Chinese) in Chula Vista;
Faith in Sun City; Spirit of Hope in San Bernardino; and the Japanese Ministry at
Lutheran Church of the Resurrection in Huntington Beach.
Those ministries also received additional support from ELCA Churchwide’s Office of
Congregational and Synodical Mission, meaning that the funds provided by NTRMF are
leveraged for additional benefit to ministries in our Synod.
These funds make possible the starting of new ministries and the transformation of
existing ministries where exciting work is being done for the Kingdom but financial
resources are scarce.
The NTRMF has been asked by the Synod Council to take on responsibilities related to
a variety of other funds designated for particular mission purposes. In connection with
these new responsibilities, we anticipate a change in name, during the coming year, to
“Mission Funds Committee.”
Your contribution, either today or as a planned gift to any of these funds, could make
new ministries possible in the future. You can make a difference today for the future of
the Church.
Grace and peace,
Rev. Jay Egenes
Chair
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Thank you Pacifica Synod for being a ministry partner!
Your gifts of prayers, direct synod support of $30,374.06 last year,
and raising up students like Erin Armstrong, Dianne Finnecy,
Jayson Nicholson, Julie Patten, and Mary Shaima give us strength
for our common work. In addition, there are 96 alums of PLTS that
live and work on the territory of your synod, many of them in
congregational ministries. Together, we build a local ecology of
discipleship, Christian love, evangelism and life-long learning.
Pictured to the right are some the new students, faculty, and staff,
who joined our community this year.
Thank you California Lutheran University for shepherding our
ministry!
As a result of our two institutions now working together, we experience:

more scholarship assistance for students

a connection with undergrad students who are doing graduate theological work before they graduate

strengthened and deepened administrative abilities and financial oversight

connection with religious programs and ministries under the umbrella of the new Division for
Mission and Identity, headed by new VP and PLTS alum, the Rev. Melissa Maxwell-Doherty
Thank you Evangelical Lutheran Church in America!
Our graduates are being called to locations throughout the country. Most recently, PLTS alums started ministry in
Illinois, Texas, New York, Massachusetts, Indiana, Montana, Michigan, Kentucky, and Colorado, not to mention
California. We also receive support from the churchwide offices, which comes originally from, yes, you!
Thank you donors!
Many individuals and families on the territory of your synod are already giving regular gifts toward the work of
PLTS. As a result, our Annual Fund is running about 25% ahead of last year, promising to pass our goal of $500,000
by five figures or more! We are also grateful for the 239 givers who have promised to remember us in their estate
plans. Such gifts often go toward establishing endowed funds for scholarships, programs and faculty chairs. If you
want to discuss being part of our legacy society, contact Rev. Brian Stein-Webber at [email protected] or 510559-2711.
Thank you to 25 donors who have agreed to match new and increased unrestricted donations from congregations for
up to $1,000!
See if your congregation can take advantage of this tremendous opportunity!
Thank you new and exciting faculty who have started at PLTS this year!

Cynthia Moe-Lobeda, Professor of Christian Ethics

Kirsi Stjerna, Professor of Lutheran History and Theology

Julian Gonzales, Professor of Old Testament
Thank you Holy Spirit for guiding us into the future!
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Spring 2016
Dear Partners in Ministry,
It’s an interesting — and challenging — time to be the church. Ministry leaders are learning to navigate the
changing culture by holding on to the best of the past while finding ways to be creative, nimble, and
resilient. This is just as true for Portico.
As we navigate the changing landscape, we are guided by two core values: stewardship and collaboration.
For us, that means caring wisely for all we are entrusted to manage — time, money, our employees, and the
well-being of those we serve — so leaders can access important benefits and resources, today and in
retirement. Here are a few ways we’re putting those values into practice:
We spend and invest with care. In these times of rising health care costs and tight church budgets, we
work hard to follow a lean, carefully managed spending plan with a goal of keeping costs low. As 2015
investment markets dramatically rose and fell, our active investment management strategy and strategic
asset allocations helped improve retirement fund returns in an otherwise disappointing year.
We seek opportunities to provide the best health care value. The past two years brought, in some
instances, double-digit percentage increases for those employers sponsoring members in the ELCA Health
Plan. Although this was in line with nationwide averages, we realize for congregations this is an
unsustainable trend. We are committed to keeping administrative expenses below 12% of our health care
budget, and are aggressively working with our vendor partners to find new savings opportunities.
We tap technology to reach our leaders more efficiently. By converting our popular pre-retirement
seminar into a series of three webinars, we were able to complement the rich educational experience of our
in-person seminars with the convenience and cost-effectiveness of online learning. We are also developing
new webinars designed to help younger leaders establish a strong financial foundation.
We’ve raised the bar on top-notch customer service. Our members receive more than just a friendly
voice when they call Portico’s Customer Care Center. As a BenchmarkPortal-certified 2015 “Center of
Excellence,” we were recognized as one of the top call centers in the nation in both cost- and quality-related
metrics.
We invest in our leaders. Because the future health of our church depends on the health of its leaders, we
are leading the ELCA in calling for a wellness reformation — a renewed commitment to well-being that
comes from healthy lifestyle choices, reduced health risks, and lower health care costs — for members,
congregations, and the ELCA Health Plan. We are encouraging our congregations and church organizations
to put the ‘we’ in wellness by joining in conversation with their pastors and professional staff about creating
a culture that supports healthy lifestyles.
Portico is committed to providing a cost-effective, comprehensive benefit program that helps our church’s
leaders stay nimble, resilient, and confident in these interesting, challenging times.
In Christ,
The Rev. Jeffrey D. Thiemann President and CEO
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Report of the Synod Cooperation Committee
March 10, 2016 Summary:
This report by the Synod Cooperation Committee is intended to describe the progress of
our efforts to identify areas of existing cooperation, common challenges and ways to be
more efficient in ministry by additional cooperation between the Pacifica and Southwest
California Synods. This report describes what has been mostly an information gathering
effort to date and lists some of the areas of successful cooperation as well as
challenges faced by both synods. The methodology of our information gathering is
described, a summary of what was learned and our path forward towards more specific
courses of action is also included.
Preliminary conversations regarding the possible formation of a single synod have taken
place, however no recommendations are offered at this time. Areas of further study by
the committee are outlined.
Background:
The Synod Cooperation Committee was formed as the result of a resolution passed by
the Pacifica Synod at their 2013 Assembly calling for a conversation with the Southwest
California Synod to seek ways of cooperating in ministry, finding solutions to common
problems, increasing efficiency and discussing the possibility of merger between the two
synods.
Pacifica's Synod Council formed a committee which sent a letter detailing these
concerns to the Southwest California Synod Council and this resulted in a number of
council members volunteering to become part of the Synod Cooperation Committee,
joining with those from Pacifica.
Methodology:
The first task undertaken by this committee was to arrange a series of interviews,
starting with both Bishop Finck and Bishop Erwin, and continuing with the two Synod
Vice Presidents LeRoy Loseke and Randall Foster, the ELCA Region 2 Coordinator
Margy Schmitt-Ajer and continuing with table talk among the clergy of both synods
attending Theoasis. The committee intends to gather further input from voting members
at the two upcoming Synod Assemblies by way of a survey, and is considering ways to
gather information from Congregation Councils.
The interviews were a series of open-ended questions relating to areas of mutual
cooperation in ministry that are presently successful, or not - areas where our
congregational missions could mutually benefit from cooperation and the pros and cons
of merging our two synods.
The questions to all the interviewees were more or less identical and the confidential
transcripts were sent to each interviewee for corrections and clarifications.
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What We Have Learned:
The findings of the committee indicate that synods work best when they have a
common mission, share the same core values, and lay and clergy members have
formed trusting relationships with one another. Where these are complementary,
synods can effectively increase cooperative efforts.
Throughout all the interviews and discussions there was no objection raised to
increasing the level of cooperation between the synods. In fact, it was quite the
opposite. Both synods already cooperate successfully in the ministries of El Camino
Pines/Luther Glen, Lutheran Social Services, Inter Lutheran Emergency Response
Team (I-LERT), to name a few. There is good cooperation in the vital activities related
to mobility and candidacy in each synod.
There is also a nascent Asian-descent ministry that is being effectively coordinated
between our two synods.
Our synods also face certain common challenges, of distance and traffic as well as the
need to tell the synod story to member congregations more effectively.
Looking for
best administrative practices as well as other ways to streamline the work of the synod
staffs was also mentioned as an area where both synods could benefit from cooperation.
The Way Forward:
The case for further cooperation between the SW California and Pacifica synods seems
to be very strong. The case for forming a single synod is less definitive, although no
specific objections were raised in our conversations. It might be possible to share some
staff duties— or deploy the existing staff through the extended geographical area—in
order to streamline some of the administrative burdens. The best ways to accomplish
these things will require extended study and prayerful consideration. No
recommendations can be made at this time.
It was noted that in the merger of PLTS and Cal Lutheran, the driving motivation was a
common mission. While it is undoubtedly true that the Pacifica and SW California
synods have more in common then we have differences, the distinctive culture of each
may pose some challenges to any scheme for sharing ministries, administrative
functions, and/or staff. A single synod covering an area from San Luis Obispo to San
Diego and Hawaii could multiply those challenges. Perhaps looking to other synodical
models that have large geographic areas, both within and outside the ELCA, will allow
us to learn from their experience.
We should also be prepared to fully describe the constitutional processes of merger or
consolidation into a single synod as an expression of due diligence, and to identify the
parameters under which these actions can be prudently taken. We see the continuing
work of this committee as a resource to both synods - a road map for cooperation that
will enhance our ministries, and – if conditions warrant – offer a means for an orderly
process of eventual merger or consolidation.
Finally, further work by this committee must include the vision of both synods and the
definition of how that vision affects areas of common mission and challenge. It is our hope
that by enhancing our cooperative efforts, we will make our ministries more vital and efficient.
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Synod Cooperation Survey
Note: The Synod supports congregations and the work of the greater church by helping congregations
find pastors, helping pastors find churches to serve, providing oversight and direction to seminary
students in the candidacy program, helping congregations deal with conflict, starting new
congregations, helping congregations in the redevelopment process, and providing resources for a
number of ministries (peace and justice, youth, etc.). With this in mind, please answer the following
questions:
1. What ministries or support services that the Synod offers are most important to your
congregation?
2. How often have you used these ministries or support services?
3. The Southwest California and Pacifica Synods are discussing greater cooperation. How
might this benefit your congregation?
4. How might greater Synod cooperation present drawbacks to your congregation?
5. What do you think about our two synods joining to form a single synod?
(Optional) Your Congregation/City:
Thank you for your input! We appreciate hearing what you think about this!
The Synod Cooperation Committee—from SW CA: Rev. James Boline, Rev. Pamela Challis, Paul
Muller (co-chair); from PAC: Rev. Laurie Line, Rev. Karen Marohn, Paul Moehlman, Rev. Dan
Roschke, Rev. Andy Taylor (co-chair)
Please turn this in to the box at the back, or email the form to [email protected] or
[email protected]
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Hello from the Pacifica Women of the ELCA.
We are planning an exciting 2016 for our Pacifica Women. We have a willing and bold team of
women leaders that follow the Women of the ELCA’s Mission Statement – TO MOBILIZE
WOMEN TO ACT BOLDLY ON THEIR FAITH IN JESUS CHRIST. The Women of the ELCA are
centered on “Justice”, “Discipleship” and “Stewardship”. Each one of these mission areas has a
resource person on staff. Our board is made up of Susan Connors-President, Keala Simoes-Vice
President, Harriet Morris-Treasurer, Tina Gates-Secretary, Board Members – Viola Angebrant.
Lynda McClellan, Andrea Campbell, Nancy Worley, Faye Cieslinski, Karen Ronchetti, Phyllis
Mackey and Jo Ann Longerbone.
We ended 2015 with the Twenty Eighth Annual Convention of the Pacifica Women of the ELCA.
It was held at the Ontario Airport Hotel in Ontario (Inland Empire) from November 6 th through
the 8th. We focused on the theme “God’s Spa – Refreshing, Revitalizing and Restoring Your
Soul”. Each of the women attending experienced a refreshing Bible Study lead by Pr. Becca Ajer
of Shepherd of Life Lutheran Church in Lake Elsinore. Bishop Finck joined us on Saturday
afternoon, where he gave the Pacifica Synod Report. He was able to have dinner with us, which
gave us the opportunity to honor his service to our organization. Sunday morning, Bishop Finck
led us in worship. Just another example of his support of the Pacifica Women, as he led the
Pacifica Synod these past eighteen years. Thank you again.
We are currently planning the Twenty Ninth Annual Convention that will be held at Bethlehem
Lutheran Church in Los Alamitos, November 4th and 5th of this year. We will be gathering with
the theme of “A Family of Faith”. We are changing things up a bit this year, that we hope will
allow more women, young and not so young, to attend. Friday afternoon, will be time for
fellowship, some fun and time for interaction. After dinner, Friday evening will begin with
business, which will continue on Saturday. Gwen Edwards will be our Churchwide
Representative. We are working on having an inspiring keynote speaker on Saturday. Saturday
only registration will once again be available. Stay updated on our web page
www.pacificawomen.org, our newly reenergized Facebook page “Pacifica Synod Women of the
ELCA” and our newsletter “Pacifica Partners.”
On March 5th, women gathered at Christ Lutheran Church in Pacific Beach.. “The Power of
M’s” – Ministry and Mission in the Pacifica Synod, especially in San Diego County was the focus
of the day. We began with a continental breakfast and had Jim Lovell and a representative
from TACO (Third Avenue Charitable Organization) and Dr. Melissa James from Agape House
(the Lutheran Episcopal Campus Ministry) on the campus of San Diego State University and
Food for Justice. Closing Worship was led by Rev. Terry Tuvey Allen, Assistant to the Bishop,
Pacifica Synod. Lunch was served and Love Gifts were collected for and received by CCSA
(Community Christian Service Agency). Our women’s generosity always amazes me.
We are getting excited about and are planning for the Triennial Gathering 2017, which will take
place in July of 2017 in Minneapolis, Minn.
It will be another year filled with our Family of Faith and God’s Blessings.
Susan Connors
President, Pacifica SWO
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RESOLUTIONS SECTION INDEX
page
Synod Council Recommendations
Compensation Guidelines for Rostered Leaders
6–3
Changes to Pacifica Synod Bylaws
6–4
Resolutions Process
6–5
Resolutions Submitted
Resolution to Confront Racism and White Privilege
6-1
6–7
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6-2
Compensation Guidelines for Rostered Leaders of the Pacifica Synod
The Pacifica Synod Council recommends to the 2016 Synod Assembly for approval a
one and one-half percent (1.5%) increase in the Baseline Salary for Rostered Leaders
(Pastors, Diaconal Ministers and Associates in Ministry) of the Pacifica Synod for the
year 2017. This action would bring the current baseline salary (including salary and
housing allowance) to $62,741 for pastors.
The Synod Council encourages congregations to use the Compensation Worksheets
available online at www.pacificasynod.org.
6-3
PROPOSED CHANGES TO THE PACIFICA SYNOD CONSTITUTION
3-11-16 DRAFT
S10.07.
The composition of the Synod Council, the number of its members, and the
manner of their selection, as well as the organization of the Synod Council, its
additional duties and responsibilities, and the number of meetings to be held
each year shall be as set forth in the bylaws.
S10.07.01
The Synod Council shall consist of the officers of the synod, and additional
members elected by the Synod Assembly (one representative per conference,
four lay-at-large and two clergy-at-large representatives) and one youth
representative elected as provided in the bylaws.
S10.07.02.
All geographic areas of the synod shall be represented on the Synod Council as
provided herein. Ten Synod Council members, called "conference
representatives," shall be elected by Synod Assembly members from geographic
areas, called "conferences."
The conference representative from each conference shall be either an ordained
minister affiliated with a congregation, agency, institution located within the
conference or shall be a layperson who is a voting member of a congregation of
this synod which is located within the conference. The Synod Council will
establish a formula designating clergy/lay, male/female to each conference. In
the event a conference representative to the Synod Council, if an ordained
minister, ceases to be an ordained minister affiliated with a congregation,
agency, institution located within the conference from which s/he was elected
or, if a layperson ceases to be a voting member of a congregation of this synod
located within the conference from which s/he was elected, then the term of
such a conference representative shall automatically terminate upon the
termination of his/her status or affiliation.
6-4
Resolutions Process and Background Information
The resolutions process enables individuals or groups within the synod to bring a request for
action to the Synod Assembly, which is the Synod’s highest legislative authority.
The Synod Council has established a 90-day deadline, prior to the beginning of the annual
Synod Assembly, for resolutions to be submitted to the synod office. The Synod Council
appoints a Resolutions Committee which meets prior to the Assembly in order to review the
resolutions received.
It is the responsibility of the Resolutions Committee to:
• ensure that resolutions comply with the constitution of the synod
• ensure that resolutions are submitted in proper form
• review the appropriateness of the subject and desired action
• make sure there is a plan for implementation
• seek to eliminate duplication of resolutions submitted on the same subject matter
The Resolutions Committee works with individuals or groups who are submitting resolutions to
assist them in presenting their resolutions in the best form possible.
The Resolutions Committee reports its work to the Synod Council and to those who have
submitted resolutions. If the Resolutions Committee rules that a resolution is unconstitutional
or inappropriate, the individual or group submitting the resolution may appeal that decision to
the Synod Council.
It is not the job of the Resolutions Committee to offer its opinions on a particular resolution.
The work of the committee is to ensure that resolutions conform to the requirements set for
them and then to place those resolutions before the assembly in a clear manner, so that the
Synod Assembly as a whole may debate and decide the issues that are before them.
If the Secretary of the Synod receives any resolutions after the 90-day deadline, they will also
be reviewed by the Resolutions Committee. These resolutions will be brought before the Synod
Assembly, but will be placed on the agenda only with the consent of the Assembly.
Any resolutions which are not considered by the Synod Assembly due to lack of time, are
referred to the Synod Council for action.
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16 - 01
Resolution to Confront Racism and White Privilege
Whereas the ELCA overwhelmingly approved the Social Statement, Freed in Christ: Race,
Ethnicity, and Culture1, stating that we expect our leadership to name the sin of racism, lead us
in our repentance of it, and challenge us to be in mission and ministry in a multicultural society;
and, whereas, racism is not merely a problem of individual prejudice but structural sin that
depends on pervasive complicity, conscious and unconscious, in perpetrating the misuse of
prejudice, power and privilege to confer disadvantages onto certain groups and advantages
onto other groups, falsely separating them by physical, cultural or other personal attributes;
and, whereas, “There is no longer Jew or Greek, there is no longer slave or free, there is no
longer male and female; for all of you are one in Christ Jesus.” and “[Christ] is our peace; in his
flesh he has made both groups into one and has broken down the dividing wall, that is, the
hostility between us.”2
and, whereas, “whiteness” and other deceptive racial categories are inherently false barriers
artificially drawn to separate people in order to confer privileges to some groups and
disadvantages on other groups. White privilege opposes the witness of Christ to the oneness
and equal dignity of the human family in God’s domination-free reign of grace;
and, whereas, racism depends on pervasive complicity of the church as well as other
institutions, including conscious and unconscious racial and economic segregation;
Therefore, be it resolved, that the Pacifica Synod of the ELCA hereby expresses its gratitude for
the leadership of Presiding Bishop Elizabeth Eaton in advancing conversations about racism and
white privilege across the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America;
and, be it further resolved, the Pacifica Synod of the ELCA commits itself to constitute a
synodical anti-racism task force to identify and share high quality educational tools and events
to raise awareness of racism, white privilege, and Christ-centered paths to liberation of oneself,
church and society;
and be it further resolved that the Pacifica Synod of the ELCA will dedicate a Day of Theological
Reflection on the issue of Racism and White Privilege,
and be it further resolved that the Pacifica Synod of the ELCA will offer support for multicultural
and multilingual ministry to engage and integrate congregations and leaders with nearby
populations, will commit itself to provide accessible and affordable synod assembly and
education events to less affluent leaders and congregations,
and finally, be it further resolved that the Pacifica Synod of the ELCA bear persistent public
witness in solidarity with oppressed people in this and other countries for the transformation of
society toward the domination-free reign of God in Christ.
1
Freed in Christ: Race, Ethnicity, and Culture. Evangelical Lutheran Church in America, Division for Church in
Society, September 1993, p. 3-4. [Adopted by a more than two-thirds majority vote as a social statement of the
ELCA by the third Churchwide Assembly on August 31, 1993, at Kansas City, Missouri.]
2
Galatians 3.28; Ephesians 2.14
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Resolution brought by:
The Rev. Darin Johnson, Agape House Lutheran-Episcopal Campus Ministry, San Diego, CA
The Rev. David Nagler, Christ Lutheran Church, San Diego, CA
Co-signed by:
The Rev. Mark Allert, Peace Lutheran Church, Corona, CA
Ms. Linda Barkman, Good Shepherd Lutheran Church, Claremont, CA
Mr. Allen Easely, Good Shepherd Lutheran Church, Claremont, CA
Mr. Dave Herrig, Good Shepherd Lutheran Church, Claremont, CA
The Rev. George Johnson, San Marcos Lutheran Church, San Marcos, CA
The Rev. Lara Martin, Good Shepherd Lutheran Church, Claremont, CA
Mr. Ron Reinsch, Christ Lutheran Church, San Diego, CA
The Rev. Daniel Roschke, Shepherd of the Valley Lutheran Church, La Mesa, CA
Mr. John C. Wheeler, Christ Lutheran Church, San Diego, CA
The Rev. Laura Ziehl, Bethlehem Lutheran Church, Encinitas, CA
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2016 HEARINGS
Prior to the opening of the Assembly at 1 p.m., the following hearings
will be conducted on Thursday morning from 10 a.m. to 11 a.m.
The purpose of these hearings is to provide information and seek the
widest possible participation by all interested voting members. The
hearings will be facilitated by members of the Synod Council and
others.
 Budget (Berkeley)
 Resolutions (Anaheim)
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WORKSHOPS
A one-hour session of general interest workshops will be offered on
Friday, May 5, at 2 p.m.
On the following pages, you will find a description of workshops
offered. We hope these descriptions will help you to make the best
choices for new learning, for your tasks in leading your congregation
and for personal growth. Below are a few tips to make the most of
your workshop choices.

Read these descriptions and decide in advance which workshop
you will attend.

Workshop locations are listed on the following page. Refer to the
facility map on page 1-10 to find the location of your workshop.
Hospitality Volunteers will be available to direct you.

We have limited space for workshops this year. There may be the
possibility of standing room only so please be prepared.

Some congregations make a point of encouraging each
participant to attend a separate workshop, later sharing the
information they have gathered. This plan will help all of us by
allowing as many congregations as possible to be represented in
each workshop.
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Some
WORKSHOP LOCATIONS
TITLE
Friday, 2 p.m.
Location
1. Outreach to Persons with a Disability
Santa Clara
2. Presiding Bishop Q & A
Grand Ballroom
3. Responding to Extremism
Anaheim
4. Social Media and the Church
Berkeley
5. Vision for Ministry
Los Angeles
6. Welcoming Our Neighbors
Irvine
7. Youth Ministry Panel Discussion
Newport Beach
See descriptions on the pages that follow.
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2016 Pacifica Synod Assembly Workshop Opportunities
#1 To/With/From – Outreach to Persons with a Disability that goes beyond a
Ramp
Persons with a Disability are the second largest group of un-Churched people in the
United States. Building a ramp into the facility is only the first step on a journey
towards full inclusion. Full inclusion by persons with a disability requires that we
move beyond ministry “TO” persons with a disability towards ministry “WITH” and
“FROM” persons with a disability.
Presentation covers: Importance of outreach, disability facts & history, Overview of
Disability Theology topics, Bible Study, Disability Etiquette, Person First Language,
and a discussion of To/With/From and how they are different. Learn how to begin
your own outreach team that has a heart for persons with a disability.
Presentation includes two outreach techniques to persons with a disability you can
incorporate instantly with no cost at your Church and a chance to win a copy of
“Beyond Accessibility – Toward Full Inclusion of People with Disabilities in Faith
Communities” by Brett Webb-Mitchell.
Presenter: The Rev. James Jerpseth, Trained Coach/Mentor for Outreach to Persons
with a Disability wishing to join the ELCA Roster or enter Seminary and Member of
the Review Committee for the 2011 Social Message “People Living with Disabilities”
#2 Q & A With the Presiding Bishop regarding “Called Forward Together in Christ”
A process to decide the ELCA's future directions
The ELCA is a young church at only 28 years old. It is a good time to take a look at
where we are as God’s people and try to understand what God has in store for us.
And we think it is an exciting time to be looking forward together as we approach
the 500th anniversary of the Reformation in 2017.
We want to create a vision for the future ELCA – as a church with solid foundations
sharing the Good News of Jesus Christ and making a difference in the world locally
and globally. And as a church that we can be proud to pass on to our children.
We want to discover how we can continue to faithfully serve God’s mission in the
years ahead and reach a shared understanding among church leaders about the
ministries that are most important.
And we want to assess whether the structures that were set up for this church are
right for the future, and as part of this consider how we use our resources in the best
possible way. There are many challenges.
The ELCA is having a conversation. All across this church - in congregations and
synod assemblies, the Conference of Bishops and the Church Council, ethnic
associations and young adults, agencies and institutions – we are coming together
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to talk about the future direction and priorities of the ELCA. Join Bishop Eaton to
learn more about this conversation.
Presenter: The Rev. Elizabeth Eaton is the Presiding Bishop of the Evangelical
Lutheran Church in America.
#3 How to respond to extremism, ISIS and Islamophobia
Is ISIS Islam? Is Islam ISIS? How do you respond when someone says, “Muslims are
terrorists”? Join Pastor Daren Erisman, PhD, and learn some tools for responding to
our own fears of extremism and to those who seem to make things worse. With a
MA in Islamic Studies and a PhD that focuses on Christian-Muslim relationship, Pastor
Daren brings over 20 years of experience working with Christian and Muslim
communities. He will share his insights and new resources from the ELCA.
Presenter: The Rev. Daren Erisman, PhD, is the pastor at House of Prayer Lutheran
Church in Escondido
#4 Social Media and the Church: A conversation about "why to" rather than "how
to"
Why should the Church be engaged online (Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Pinterest,
etc.)? We'll go over some basics of what social media is and then dive into
conversation around why and how we could be engaged online. Why would we
tweet during the sermon...wouldn't that be distracting? How can we have
meaningful experiences online? Why should we invest in online relationships? All
ages and levels of social media knowledge/interest are welcome. Please don't let
your age prevent you from coming. Desta is passionate about getting people of all
ages together in community online and in person. Please join Desta Goehner as she
guides us in conversation around taking the pulpit to the people through social
media.
Presenter: Desta Goehner, Spiritual Director, Director of Congregational Relations,
California Lutheran University
#5 Dreaming a Bold Vision for Ministry
When our congregations begin to struggle to continue the kind of ministry that we
have known through the years, our natural reaction is to move into survival mode.
What if, instead of focusing on survival, this is the time to dream a big, bold vision for
the future? How might we accompany congregations in this journey? Are you
interested in hearing what kinds of creative and outside of the box ideas courageous
congregations all across the ELCA are pursuing? If so, this is the workshop for you!
Presenters: The Rev. Terry Tuvey Allen, Assistant to the Bishop and the Rev. Tim
Philips, Director for Evangelical Mission and Assistant to the Bishop.
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#6 Welcoming Our Neighbors
Are you interested in reaching out to your neighbors to share the love of Christ, but
hesitant because you aren’t sure where or how to begin? Do you have more
questions than answers? What should we do? Where should we start? How will we
know needs of those who are living around us? Why will people come if we don’t
speak the same language? Congregations throughout our synod are hard at work
loving and serving all people, sharing the good news of Jesus Christ; but need some
help including their new neighbors in the life and worship of the congregation. Join
Pastors Wesley Menke and Nathan Allen, who are building bridges with their
congregations and their neighbors, as they share their stories and listen to your
concerns and questions. Together you will begin to share ideas and resources for
our mission and ministry as we reach out to and serve all people, negotiate the
complexities and questions of our life together with a daring confidence in God’s
grace and love.
Presenters: The Reverend Wesley Menke (St. Peter/San Pedro Santa Ana) and The
Reverend Nathan Allen (Clairemont Lutheran San Diego) are two of our synod
pastors who are engaged in bi-lingual ministry in our synod.
#7 Panel Discussion by the Youth of the Synod Youth Ministry Team: “Here Am I,
Send Me”
How do we keep our youth involved in the life of our congregation? What is
meaningful to them? How can we empower our youth and accompany them on
their faith journey? Members of the Pacifica Synod Youth Team lead this open forum
workshop where they will share their experiences as leaders in their congregations
and in our synod, with time for questions and conversation.
Presenter: Pacifica Synod Youth Team
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CONFERENCE BREAK-OUTS
SATURDAY, MAY 7, 9 a.m.
Conference
Location
Anaheim
SONSHINE and
WEST SAN DIEGO
Santa Clara
HARVEST
RAINCROSS
Berkeley
BIG BEAR
Catalina
Newport Beach
SADDLEBACK
Irvine
SON & SURF
REJOICE
Grand Ballroom
HUKILAU
Los Angeles
7-7
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April 4, 2016
Dear brothers and sisters in Christ,
This is a very exciting time to be the church. At this assembly, the voting members will be
electing the next bishop of the Pacifica Synod. This is one of the most important tasks of the
synod assemblies, which is the highest legislative authority of our synod. Your presence here is
not mere coincidence. You have been called for such a time as this.
We join you in prayer as we ask God for guidance for those who vote and discernment for those
who are nominated for this position.
The following information is a breakdown of how the bishop election process works. This
information can also be found in the Pacifica Synod Constitution at S9.04.01 through S9.04.04.
The Ecclesiastical Ballot and the Modified Ecclesiastical Ballot
Since the inception of the ELCA, elections for the presiding bishop and synodical bishops have
been conducted using an ecclesiastical ballot—a first ballot on which the name of any member of
the clergy may be submitted for nomination by a voting member of the assembly.
The Pacifica Synod uses a modified ecclesiastical ballot for nominating a bishop. The
modification provides for nominations of up to ten candidates each in the ten conferences that
make up our synod. Of those nominated, eight have agreed to move forward in the process.
These eight names, plus a blank line on which to write the name of any person on the ELCA
clergy roster, form the modified ecclesiastical ballot. On the First Ballot for Bishop, you will be
instructed to vote for one of the eight or to write in the name of any person on the clergy roster of
the ELCA, except for Bishop Murray Finck, who is ineligible to stand for re-election because of
term limits.
The synod constitution describes a multiple ballot election process for the election of the bishop,
with each subsequent ballot reducing the number of candidates (absent ties, from seven to five to
three and, finally two) and the majority needed for election (from 75 percent to 66.6 percent to
60 percent to a simple majority). Absent ties, the maximum number of ballots cast will be five,
but an election could occur on any ballot.
Presiding Bishop Elizabeth Eaton, who will oversee the election of the bishop, will provide a
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thorough explanation of the balloting and give instructions prior to voting. However, for most
people, ecclesiastical ballots can be confusing, so a brief summary follows.
First Ballot for Bishop
The first ballot will include all persons who have been pre-nominated and a line to write in the
name of a candidate not already on the ballot. With a write in candidate, ministry setting and
contact information are required, so that the nominating committee may contact them to
determine their willingness to serve (see Nominating a Candidate at the Synod Assembly below).
Three-fourths—75 percent—of the votes cast are necessary for election on the first ballot.
Because the First Ballot for Bishop typically includes many write-in candidates, the counting
takes several hours to complete.
Second Ballot for Bishop
The second ballot will include all persons receiving a vote and who have not withdrawn their
names from nomination. Three-fourths—75 percent—of the votes cast are necessary for election
on the second ballot.
Third Ballot for Bishop
The third ballot will be limited to seven persons, plus ties, who receive the greatest number of
votes on the second ballot. Two-thirds—66.6 percent—of the votes cast are necessary for
election on the third ballot.
Prior to voting on the Third Ballot for Bishop, the seven candidates, plus ties, will participate in a
question and answer session with the assembly.
Fourth Ballot for Bishop
The fourth ballot is limited to three persons, plus ties, who receive the greatest number of votes
on the third ballot. Sixty percent of the votes cast is necessary for election.
Prior to voting on the Fourth Ballot for Bishop, the three candidates, plus ties, will address the
assembly for no more than five minutes each.
Fifth Ballot for Bishop
The fifth ballot is limited to two persons and requires a majority vote for election.
Nominating a Candidate at the Synod Assembly
Voting members who intend to place a name in nomination at the synod assembly must:
• Speak with the individual in advance of the assembly to verify that he or she is willing
to stand for election to the office of bishop.
• Fill out the information in the space provided on the first ballot. The information
requested is name, current ministry setting, city, state, and contact information.
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The Bishop Election Committee, the Bishop Nominating Task Force, and the Walking Into
the Future Together Task Force
You’ll hear references throughout the assembly to several groups that have a roll in the election
of the bishop. The Bishop Election Committee (BEC) was appointed by the synod council in
December 2014 to develop a process for the bishop election. In the last year, this committee—
chaired by the Rev. Kim Krogstad, the Rev. Laura Ziehl, and Ms. Rachel Line - with Darrell
Tuntland, Gary Kakert, and LeRoy Loseke as members - has been hard at work overseeing the
entire election process.
The Bishop Nominating Task Force, chaired by the Rev. Steve Bieghler, consists of one
representative from each of the ten conferences, and was appointed by synod council in March
2015. This Task Force received 32 names from the conferences and contacted each nominee for
their affirmation of being nominated. The Task Force coordinated background checks and
reviewed their qualifications. Many people graciously removed their names from nomination. Of
those remaining, the top twelve were presented to the BEC. In the following months of
discernment, four others removed their names and the remaining eight are presented in this
notebook.
The Walking Into the Future Together (WIFT) Task Force, has been coordinated by Mr. Jeff
Cours and the Rev. Darin Johnson with members Rafael del Castillo, Nicholas Cruz, the Rev.
Christine Higueria-Street, Angela Jackson, Joanne Larson, the Rev. Lara Martin, Paul
Moehlman, the Rev. Tim Philips (ex officio from synod staff), and Darrell Tuntland. The main
jobs of the WIFT Task Force were to listen to the synod, report back to the bishop and synod
council, and help the bishop and synod council form the groups necessary to implement changes.
The Task Force took this information and data to form the Synod Profile, highlighting the major
themes that emerged from the listening sessions in 2014 and 2015. The complete synod profile is
available online at:
http://www.firstlutheransd.org/Journey/synodprofile
+++
We look forward to this process of electing the Pacifica Synod’s next bishop. We thank God for
Bishop Murray Finck who has served this church faithfully for 18 years as bishop of this synod.
We pray for the Holy Spirit to guide our hearts and lead us through this assembly.
Thank you for committing to serve as a voting member at this assembly. It is our hope and
prayer that we feel the spirit move as we are all called for such a time as this.
Blessings to you all,
The Rev. Kim Krogstad
Ms. Rachel Line
The Rev. Laura Ziehl
Bishop Election Committee Co-chairs
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NOMINEES FOR BISHOP OF THE PACIFICA SYNOD
Name: Mark William Allert
Current Position: Pastor
Congregation Membership: Peace Lutheran Church of Corona, CA
Date of Birth: June 5, 1971
Ordination: May 15, 1999
Previous Positions: Pastor, Immanuel Evangelical Lutheran Church of
Clay, NY
List up to five (5) current or past synodical or churchwide activities that would inform your
service as bishop of this synod.
Elections Committee Pacifica Synod Assembly, Chair – 2015
Synod Assembly Planning Committee, Member – 2014 – 2015
Pacifica Synod Mission Support Table, Member – 2012 – 2013
Raincross Conference, Dean – 2006 – 2009
For Peace in God’s World ELCA Social Statement, Taskforce Member – 1992 – 1995
Given that we are a geographically and ethnically diverse synod, ever needing to strengthen
our connections with one another:
a. What does it mean to be synod?
To be together at work for the Kingdom of God, where the harvest is plentiful but the laborers are
few. When the spark of the Gospel story of Jesus and the spark of the stories of our people and
places meet, there the Pentecost fire of Church is ignited. “Being Synod” is tending that fire so it
brightly shines and deeply warms the world with love.
b. As bishop, how would you strengthen the connection between congregations,
conferences, and synod?
I strongly suspect that geographically deployed and perhaps even part-time synod staff, Assistants to
the Bishop and Support Staff offices within our congregations, would strengthen our connectedness
and multiply our effectiveness. I saw this work well in Upstate New York and would work towards
this same vision here.
c. How would you lead the Pacifica Synod in the next six years so as to fulfill our mission?
My leadership style is collaborative and progressive, in the sense that I work hard to work well with
others and keep us moving to accomplish whatever steps are before us to take, to walk those steps
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well, and in the dust of our Rabbi. Guiding questions for me are, “What makes the most of Jesus
Christ?” and “What makes the most out of love?”
d. What does a healthy congregation/ministry look like and how would you foster that in
this synod?
A healthy congregation and ministry is one that exists for mission. I believe people are saved by
God’s grace, but institutions, churches and ministries included, are saved by mission. Mission is a
church word for “loving our neighbors as ourselves.” I would foster this by, to the best of my ability,
spending 34% of my working hours in and with congregations, 33% with synodical ministries, and
33% with churchwide ministries.
e. What is your principle priority for this synod and what will you do to address it?
I would move us away from the institutionally emphasized, corporate model of church and toward
the relationships the Holy Spirit inspires among us. For example, I would look to hold our Synod
Assemblies within our, or full-communion partner congregations, where we might stay in each
other’s homes rather than hotel rooms, console each other in our living rooms, converse with each at
our breakfast or dinner tables, as we are all called, gathered, enlightened and made holy on the way
together.
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Name: Agapito Avilés Jr.
Current Position: Pastor/Pastor
Congregation Membership: First Lutheran Church of Ontario/La
Primera Iglesia Luterana de Ontario
Date of Birth: November 2, 1956
Ordination: November 28, 1999
Previous Positions: Hospice Chaplain
I served as the Dean of Mariposa Conference; I served on the Multi-Synodical Candidacy
Committee; Chair of the Hispanic Ministry Team; Planning Committee for Synod Assembly in the
Inland Empire.
To be a synod is to acknowledge the diversity within its borders and to celebrate the strengths and
keep clear what the common ministry is: “To Make Christ Known.” Each context will define how
that will take place. As a synod we are to never forget our first love, Jesus Christ. At times we,
humans, have the tendency to forget this and get lost in a political agenda that has nothing to do with
the ministry of our Church. If we are not bringing people to Christ then what is our mission. There
are three questions, I believe, we need to ask: Why are we here, who do we serve, and to whom do
we give honor and glory? This will enable us to define what our ministry is to be, within the context
that we serve. As a synod we are all pointed in the same direction, with the same common goal: “To
Make Christ Known.”
As bishop my focus would be on what unites us and not what separates us. I realize that we may not
always agree but we are called to love one another and to seek ways to partner in ministry. As
bishop my task, as I see it, is to facilitate this process, focusing on the strengths and shoring up our
weaknesses. And in order to do this I must be present and available to all.
As bishop, I would meet with those who feel isolated from the main body of the synod. As many of
us know, a church in decline finds itself very isolated, lamenting what was and struggling with what
is in their present and in their future. We need to find ways to walk along side of them and
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encourage them to see themselves as missionaries with in their context. Asking the difficult
questions: What does our context/community need most? If there is a church on every corner is one
more needed or do we need another form of ministry to fill that void? How can our Lutheran
presence partner with others to Make Christ Known?
With the help of God, and anointing power of the Holy Spirit, I would lead by example. I will never
ask anyone in our synod to do something I am not willing to do. I will walk in front of you,
alongside of you and behind you. I will surround myself with those who have gifts that will bring
honor and glory to God for the fulfillment of God’s mission. I will reexam our priorities and with the
help of Synod Council determine what is best for our synod, as a whole.
this synod?
A healthy congregation/ministry asks the following questions: Why are we here, who do we serve,
and to whom do we give the honor and glory? Why, you may ask, because it isn’t about us. We
come to the realization, as a wise sage once told me, “we are not being graded on this.”
A healthy congregation/ministry has been founded on principles that reminds everyone who is in the
center of the ministry, Christ our Lord. This gives space to agree and space to disagree and still
serve with the same purpose. A healthy congregation/ministry is respectful of all opinions, and
doesn’t push their agendas that cause discord and distrust.
A healthy congregation/ministry will spill forward to other congregations within the synod. Those
congregations that are struggling, if they give themselves permission, may be encouraged to do
things different. They may also be encouraged to see the possibilities and opportunities within their
context.
1.
Meet with Pastor that are without calls and reconnect them with their synod. There is a
sense of abandonment, which needs to be healed.
2.
Meet with declining church and determine what are their needs and heal any past
misunderstandings. As a ship is sinking, those who are not in the water can’t say, “Good thing, we
are on this side of the boat.” We are on the same boat. Help them determine what ministry can rise
from their location and are they willing to be part of it.
3.
As bishop, I am the Pastor’s pastor, this is not a task that should or can be delegated. I will
be available for Pastoral Care for my sisters and brothers in Christ who have been called into the
ministry to lead God’s people.
4.
I will reexam traveling commitments and ask the question: “In what way will this meeting
bring honor to God and in what way will this benefits our synod.”
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Name: Jay Egenes
Current Position: Pastor, Highland Avenue Lutheran Church, dba Spirit
of Hope; also serve as ¼ time Pastor at Central City Lutheran Mission;
both in San Bernardino.
Congregation Membership: Spirit of Hope
Date of Birth: December 12, 1959
Ordination: February 15, 2009
Previous Positions: I’m a second-career pastor. Prior to attending seminary, I practiced
transactional, real estate and development law for 16 years, becoming a partner at Gresham Savage.
During this time I served multiple terms on the Church Council and as President of Trinity Lutheran
Church in Riverside. I have also served 2 terms as Head Spiritual Director (Pastor) of Lutheran
Cursillo of Southern California.
(1) Redevelopment Training; (2) Dean of Big Bear Conference; (3) Chair of “New,
Transformational, Redevelopment, Missions Funds” Committee (aka the “Mission Funds”
Committee); (4) Trustee of congregation placed under Synodical Administration by Synod Council;
(5) Chair of Pacifica Synod Assembly, 2015.
Following Jesus is a group activity. It’s about relationship: relationship with God in and through
Jesus, relationship with other Christ-followers, and relationship with the world and the people in it
who need Jesus—people who don’t know and love Jesus yet. Being “synod” means following Jesus
together, perhaps literally “walking together,” and working out together how to best love Jesus and
serve both God and our neighbor in this time and place.
Much of relationship is simply showing up and being present, being engaged with those around us,
which sounds easy. But it’s not. Building relationships and community, supporting each other,
takes time and intentionality. In a synod with so much geographical distance, we need to look for
opportunities to spend time together not just formally but informally, and to do things together.
Service together can be a tie that binds us. Actively working to further God’s Kingdom can serve to
unite and guide us. We need to find ways for the bishop and staff to spend less time dealing with
problems and crises, and more time building relationships.
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First, let’s remember that it’s not really our mission, it’s God’s mission—to rescue the world
God loves from everything that separates us from God and from each other. And God’s mission has
a Church. Led by the Holy Spirit, our challenge is to align ourselves with God’s mission.
We need to be honest that while we are diverse compared to the ELCA as a whole, we are not
nearly as diverse as our surrounding communities. Many of our congregations are EITHER
candidates for transformation or redevelopment (reinventing their identities and ministry models;
finding new ways to build relationships with their communities) OR should probably admit that
they’re likely to close someday. Many more are on the downward side of their organizational life
cycle—in need of renewal and revival. Finally, our secular culture no longer encourages general
biblical knowledge, so even conversations with others can be a challenge.
This doesn’t mean that we should despair. God is a God of change, renewal, and resurrection.
Acknowledging what we DON’T know is a good step. Then we can seek out knowledge and best
practices to help us share the Good News and work for the Kingdom of God in our contexts. We can
learn much from each other in this synod, from the congregations that have thriving ministries or
that are already taking steps to address their changing contexts. We have access to very
knowledgeable people, across the ELCA, who can help us learn what ministry can look like in a
more ethnically diverse society. We have work to do in service of God’s Kingdom. The world is
changing but people still need the Good News of Jesus Christ. And we’ve got Jesus!
this synod?
Healthy congregations engage in core Christian practices: Scripture reading, prayer, public
worship, giving, sharing faith/inviting others to meet Jesus, and giving (see Foss, Power Surge).
They are willing to experiment and fail, learning in the process. They are places where not only is
everyone welcome, but everyone is invited, and boundaries to participation are low. They are not
afraid to get out of their silos and work with partners in the larger community. And healthy
congregations find a way to provide for leadership development. A variety of leadership and other
training resources are available from the ELCA and other organizations, including for example the
Center for Congregations (formerly with the Alban Institute) and 3-day movements such as Lutheran
Cursillo and Via De Cristo. I would work to promote use of many of these resources as appropriate
in context for different congregations.
As a synod and as individual congregations, we need to navigate our way through a time of vast and
rapid social change. I once read that while change is not mandatory, neither is survival. I don’t
believe that’s true. Change is constant. The question is whether change will be intentional or
unintentional, whether it will lead to death or lead to life. Our challenge as the Church is to
understand both the changes around us and our traditions and to see how we can best share the Good
News of Jesus Christ in our changing contexts. As Christians who happen to be Lutherans, our
tradition emphasizes ideas like Law and Gospel; Bible, Grace, Faith and Jesus; and being set free to
serve God and to serve our neighbors. We live among people who need to be set free from
everything that separates us from God and from each other. I am convinced that our tradition gives
us the tools we need to BE the Church in our changing, challenging contexts.
8-9
Name: The Rev. Tom Goellrich
Current Position: Senior Pastor, St. Paul Lutheran Church, Fullerton,
1998 - Present
Congregation Membership: St. Paul Lutheran Church, Fullerton, CA
Date of Birth: May 8, 1960
Ordination: June 24, 1990
Previous Positions: Pastor, St. Paul Lutheran Church, Columbus, OH, 1990-98
Dean of Rejoice Conference, Pacifica Synod
Multiple Terms Pacifica Synod Council and Executive Council
Co-chair Synod Assembly Planning Team
Congregational Observer for multiple Churchwide Assemblies
Bishop Consultation/Discipline Committee
The Pacifica Synod is a diverse territory defined by a minimum of four distinct geographical areas.
Each area possesses unique and important gifts. The primary gift in these areas are the people who
work, play, serve, live and call these areas home. The Pacifica Synod is not defined by any one
geographical area or the people who live in it. Instead, the Pacifica Synod is defined by the
collective gifts of the people in all the areas served. Together we are God’s children. Together we
are the Pacifica Synod.
I am a collaborative person by nature but will not shy away from making the tough decision when
needed. This is consistent with my work as a parish pastor, my various work on synod teams, and
finally as the dean of the Rejoice Conference. To strengthen the connections between congregations,
conferences and the synod office, (CCS) I would:
-Commit to a strong visible presence within the territory of the Pacifica Synod.
8 - 10
-Develop a staffing model that will encourage a proactive presence.
-Utilize conference deans in a more active leadership role.
-Implement a strategy to identify and train additional lay leaders to strengthen and increase
capacity of connection between CCS.
The Pacifica Synod Profile (a result of the work led by the WIFT Task Force) provides the
foundation from which I would start. Addressing the six themes that emerged from the 2015 Synod
Assembly by creating a baseline (assess how we are doing) and then create the action plan necessary
to implement steps so they become realized. A summary of the six themes: **Christ and Gospel as
Center**Integrating Cultural Diversity**Move to the Margins**Turn Church Inside Out**Shift
from Silos to Networks**Leverage Technology.
this synod?
I find this question intriguing. Let me state up front that there is not one prescription. That said, there
are tendencies, characteristics and practices that seem to be priorities. These include:
-Be prayerful as a community with meaningful worship at the core.
-Be missional and visionary.
-Be clear about identity and purpose with permeable boundaries.
-Emphasize an outward focus.
-Be hopeful and expect surprises.
-Embrace conflict honestly and with integrity.
Fostering this includes proactive conversation and education throughout the synod. This is not
limited to congregations, but includes the conferences and synod office as well.
Simply said, being present and visible throughout the congregations and conferences of the Pacifica
Synod will be my top priority. While some of this will occur naturally as dictated by specific needs
and celebrations, I will make it my top priority to carve out regular specific times to be present, in
our conferences, in order to promote opportunities for conversation. These conversations would be
open and authentic dialogues about local trends, ministry hopes, ministry challenges and to talk
about action steps with rostered leaders, lay leaders, and people (including the general population) of
the Pacifica Synod.
8 - 11
Name: Sarah Birdsall Isakson
Current Position: Pastor Trinity Lutheran Episcopal Church, Willcox,
AZ and St. Raphael Episcopal Lutheran Church, Benson, AZ
Congregation Membership: Trinity Lutheran Episcopal Church,
Willcox, AZ
Date of Birth: October 12, 1949
Previous Positions:
Pastor, Lutheran Church of the Cross, Berkeley, CA 94703, 2002 to 2013
Pastoral Care Team Member for Spiritual Direction, Pacific Lutheran Theological Seminary,
Berkeley, CA 2005 to 2013.
Internship Supervisor of 4 ELCA, intern pastors from 4 different ELCA seminaries and 13 teaching
parish students from PLTS.
Trained community organizer by PICO/Berkeley Organizing Congregations for Action
Dean Sunrise conference Grand Canyon Synod 2014Served on Sierra Pacific Synod Council 2004-2010 and Racial Ethnic Ministries Task Force, was
appointed to The Board of Directors of Mt. Cross Lutheran Camp, and trained in Institutional , Antiracism by Crossroads Ministries, 3 years.
Trained for ELCA Transformational Ministries, 2005; Participated in three ELCA Urban Ministry
Summits and initial EALA (now European Descent Lutheran Association for Racial Justice)
organizational meetings, 2008
Trained Interim Ministry Part I, 2012
Lutheran Volunteer Corps, Board of Directors, Representative for Bay Area, 2004-2005
As children of God, we rely on God’s grace and the way we are continually reformed through the
power of God’s Holy Spirit, as we become a stronger synod. Each gathering is graced with the
8 - 12
presence of Jesus Christ, as we commune around table and font. Synod means people who hold each
other accountable for past, present and future, as witnesses to the resurrected Christ. We gather in
different organizational groups to share the Good news of God’s inclusive love for all our neighbors
and ourselves, no matter what. We receive the Holy Spirit as synod.
As bishop, I would call and train energetic, congregational care teams with culturally sensitive staff,
clergy and lay leaders. I will recognize the different needs of each unique worshipping community as
we energize for common mission. Transformation will occur as new congregational activities take us
out into the world sharing Lutheran traditions; we are grace filled, loving and caring to all families
and neighbors. Restructuring can be achieved by grouping congregations by size, common goals and
needs. I support accompaniment ministries here, across borders and in Companion Synods. We must
build on our strengths and be adaptive and flexible.
I will lead from my God given gifts as a multilingual person of rich international, multicultural,
interfaith, and interdenominational experiences. I will lead by sharing my spiritual rule of life, prayer
based activism. I will be a compassionate pastor of pastors as I follow Jesus. I am an innovator and
generative. I am called to leading change with no fear of failure. I will choose staff, lay and clergy,
who will be honest and open in communicating their prayers, hopes and needs. Wise use of
technological advances to enhance ministry is a must. I would urge reinvestment of congregational
assets to be used to train leaders in congregations, colleges and seminaries. I will receive advice and
counsel gracefully. I imagine myself as a mother hen, gathering and protecting her chicks. I believe
in a God of abundance who shares generously.
this synod?
A healthy congregation/ministry is prayerful, relates well with the neighborhood surrounding it and
is aware of its own needs for vital applications of word and sacrament. Fostering this in a
congregation and synod requires respect and affirmation of past and present while allowing strong
support for future reformation. Fostering health and wholeness is the responsibility of each person as
we follow Jesus.
My principle priority is to gather the faithful and train up leaders together. Leading the church
outside its walls, we can carry our synod, the ELCA and worldwide Lutheran partners into the future
as we seek and embody God’s will together with our neighbors.
Strengthening our identity as the family of God is a key to future dynamism and growth!
8 - 13
Name: Wilbert “Wilk” S. Miller
Current Position: Pastor, First Lutheran Church-San Diego (2005present)
Congregation Membership: First Lutheran Church-San Diego
Date of Birth: February 13, 1951
Previous Positions:
-Senior Pastor, St. Paul’s Lutheran Church-Ardmore, PA (suburban Philadelphia, 1995-2005)
-Senior Pastor, Augustana Lutheran Church-Washington, DC (downtown DC, 1982-1995)
-Pastor, Calvary Lutheran Church-Philadelphia (inner-city Philadelphia, 1977-1982)
-Internship, Emanuel Lutheran Church-Philadelphia (inner-city Philadelphia, 1975-1976)
-Served as Dean in three synods (Metropolitan DC, Southeastern PA, Pacifica)
-Served on Candidacy Committee in two synods (Metro DC and Pacifica)
-Chaired the Division for Ministry (Metro DC Synod)
-Chaired the American Missions Task Force (Maryland Synod-LCA)
-Served on the national board of the ELCA Deaconess Community
Given that we are a geographically and ethnically diverse synod, ever needing to strengthen our
connections with one another:
Being synod is coming together to accomplish in God’s name what we could never achieve as
individual congregations. The synod encourages us to share our unique gifts in proclaiming Christ
crucified and risen to Southern California, Hawaii, and even beyond. Our Pacifica Synod
strengthens congregations in transition, assists them to be more effective in changing neighborhoods,
supports them amidst unexpected challenges, celebrates with them on special occasions, and mourns
with them in the face of tragedy and loss. The synod strategically looks to develop new mission
starts in ethnic and emerging communities not currently reached with the Gospel. The synod raises
up and supports candidates for ministry. It also enables youth to gather with young people from
various cultures and backgrounds to experience the joy of being the people of God.
8 - 14
I would implement a protocol by which the bishop and synod staff would respond to congregations,
laity, and rostered leaders in a well-defined, timely fashion. I would visit every congregation and its
leadership on a set schedule. With the wisdom of the synod council, deans, and conference
leadership, I would hope to strategically locate synod staff throughout our territory to address
congregations’ most urgent needs.
I would invite our synod to prayerfully consider how best to proclaim Jesus’ vision in his first
sermon: “The Spirit of the Lord is upon me, because he has anointed me to bring good news to the
poor. He has sent me to proclaim release to the captives and recovery of sight to the blind, to let the
oppressed go free, to proclaim the year of the Lord’s favor.” We would open our church doors and
the Lord’s Table wider and wider. I would empower deans, synod council, laity, and rostered
leaders to take on greater responsibilities in synodical leadership and witness. The bishop cannot
fulfill Christ’s mission alone; the hands and hearts of every sister and brother in Christ are necessary
to announce God’s goodness in this part of God’s creation entrusted to our care.
this synod?
Every congregation in our synod can do unimaginable ministry with words, water, bread, and
wine—and every location, rich or poor, small or large, is amply blessed with this stuff! I have been
fortunate to serve in very diverse churches: in inner-city housing projects, in centers of large cities,
and in one of our nation’s most affluent suburban communities. These settings are quite diverse—
African American, stably integrated, Latino, white, gay, and straight. The current congregation I
serve, First-San Diego, cherishes worship; it is from this firm foundation that we created the Third
Avenue Charitable Organization (TACO) with an array of free clinics, social services, hospice
program for homeless dying, and meals for the poorest. As bishop, I would repeatedly remind us
that healthy congregations are fostered by trusting that the simple gifts of water, bread, wine, and the
Word are more than enough for compelling ministry to occur.
My principle priority would be to seek how best to do ministry hand-in-hand so no congregation
feels alone or that it lacks the necessary support to serve the Lord and its neighbors. I would urge us
to take bold risks for the Gospel’s sake, erring always on the side of mercy, seeking Christ’s mind
whenever we might disagree, and, most importantly, longing to be Christ’s heart in Southern
California and Hawaii.
8 - 15
Name: David C. Nagler
Current Position: Pastor at Christ Lutheran Church, Pacific Beach, CA
Congregation Membership: Christ Lutheran Church
Date of Birth: July 19, 1964
Ordination: January 30, 1993
Previous Positions: Pastor / CEO of Central City Lutheran Mission in
San Bernardino; Pastor of Nativity Lutheran Church in Bend, Oregon; Senior Pastor at Christ
Lutheran Church in Pacific Beach; Director of Project Shalom (Christian / Muslim Dialogue)
Madagascar; Associate Pastor at Bethlehem Lutheran Church, Encinitas;
List up to five (5) current or past synodical or church wide activities that would inform your
•
I serve on the board of advisors for Pacific Lutheran Theological Seminary.
•
I serve on the board of directors for Lutheran Social Services in Southern California.
•
I was the chairperson for the hunger and housing ministry team for 5 years.
•
I was the chair of the resolutions committee in the Oregon Synod for 3 years.
At its best, a synod is an interdependent group of congregations. Rather than working in isolation,
we are united by our core theological beliefs and free to collaborate. We are better together. When
one ministry flourishes, we all flourish. When another place suffers, we all suffer. We differ in
locations, styles, and demographics but we are united in our mission to proclaim the gospel. We
should always value unity over uniformity.
For our synod to be healthy we must embrace diversity, encourage creativity, take risks, and
communicate effectively. We should expect more from each other not less.
The primary place where the church of Christ intersects with the world is the congregation.
Anything that we do to encourage and develop the impact of the local congregation and its ministry
would be a top priority. That means supporting innovation and sharing results.
8 - 16
Secondly, we need a team approach to administration that empowers leaders in our 4 regions to
make executive synodical decisions. This leadership team would meet weekly via teleconference to
share and address local congregational needs. The team would foster greater efficiency and local
solutions.
Finally, communication must improve throughout the synod. We should employ every option
(including social media) to accomplish this task. Also, the synod assembly must be redesigned.
We live in the best days to be the church. God has been reforming the church to reclaim its role as
the bold proclaimer of good news just when the world needs it most. This is our calling.
I would lead the synod first and foremost by encouraging it to preach radical grace. This
proclamation is not the cheap grace that allows us to ignore injustice, but empowers us to address it
in light of God’s love. We need to become bolder; ready to experiment and more open to new
models of ministry. We must welcome and empower those who don’t fit our traditional mold.
this synod?
A healthy congregation looks like and is engaged with its neighbors. For many of our
congregations, this was true in the past but is not the case today. The gift of increasing diversity has
been a challenge for us. Yet it is also our greatest opportunity. Our understanding of God is always
incomplete, but it can grow and mature as we become more diverse. New people teach us new ways
to experience God’s love and grace. Evangelism seeks mutual transformation.
I would ask leaders in the synod to spend less time on their campus and more time in their
neighborhoods. Both lay and ordained leaders need to trade some office hours for walking the
neighborhood. We need to listen to our communities with hearts shaped by the gospel.
I would provide training for this work and develop systems for mutual accountability. God is
already at work in our neighbor’s lives. Our job is to discover what God is doing and adapt our
ministries accordingly. The result will be mutually beneficial.
Our founding story is the good news of God’s unconditional love made known to us in Jesus of
Nazareth. It is why we are the church. The principle priority of our synod is to redesign our mission;
to create “new wineskins” so this story can be heard with clarity again.
8 - 17
Name: Andrew A. Taylor
Current Position: St. Andrew’s Lutheran Church, San Diego
Congregation Membership: St. Andrew’s, San Diego
Date of Birth: September 27, 1957
Ordination: August 10, 1986
Previous Positions: Pastor, First, Tulare, CA 1992-1997; Associate
Pastor, Emanuel, La Habra, CA 1986-1992
Co-chair, Synod Cooperation Task Force with SW CA Synod, 2015-present
Member, Pacifica Synod Mission Support Table 2010 – 2012
Co-chair, Synod Assembly Planning Team 2010
Member and Past Chair, Theoasis/Professional Leaders’ Conference Planning Team, 1998mid 2000s, 2011-present
Chair, Pacifica and Sierra Pacific Synods Youth Boards, 1990s
I believe synods are called to work with congregations and the churchwide expression in mutual
service. Churchwide serves synods which serve congregations which serve their members who serve
their communities and neighbors. But to adequately serve our neighbors, congregations work with
synods and churchwide to do together what none of us can do alone.
Every congregation is uniquely gifted by God for they work they do. I would encourage
congregations to map their assets and share what they do well in order to mentor and assist other
congregations that may benefit from their areas of expertise, and to receive mentoring from
congregations that have strengths and abilities they need.
8 - 18
I would focus our efforts on support and encouragement of congregations and rostered leaders. I
would continue the discussions with SW CA to see how we can pool resources and cooperate,
possibly even merge, in order to use missional dollars to their fullest extent. I would recruit, train
and empower rostered and lay volunteers to do the work of the synod.
this synod?
I would encourage congregations to see themselves as doing not their own work, but God’s work.
Healthy congregations seek what God would have them do, not what they want to do. They are open
to newcomers and new ideas. They believe in the resurrection so much that they are willing to die in
order for God to bring new life, and thus are not worried about their own survival, but about
faithfulness to the One who gives them life.
Supporting congregations in fulfilling their mission and ministry, while asking them to be partners
with the synodical and churchwide expressions of the ELCA. I would stress stewardship of financial
resources, believing that congregations that give generously are more likely to be generous in giving
of talents and time to others, and are more likely to see God at work, giving back to them all they
need to fulfill their call.
8 - 19

Assembly Notebook 2016

Transcription

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