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2015 Convention Binder Cover Sheet
2015 Convention Central Illinois District Lutheran Church – Missouri Synod Springfield, Illinois Crowne Plaza Hotel and Convention Center July 5-7, 2015 Table of Contents Section A – Convention Information Schedule Proposed Standing Rules Floor Committees Board of Directors Circuit Counselors Commissions & Committees Voting Delegates Page Page Page Page Page Page Page Section B - Reports Officers Staff Circuit Counselors Commissions & Committees Page B-1 Page B-19 Page B-37 Page B-47 Section C - Nominations Nominations Committee Circuit Counselors Vice - President Nominees Biographical Information Page Page Page Page Section D - Resolutions Floor Committee # 1 Witness Floor Committee # 2 Mercy Floor Committee # 3 Life Together Page D-1 Page D-11 Page D-19 Section E - Overtures Floor Committee # 1 Witness Floor Committee # 2 Mercy Floor Committee # 3 Life Together Page E-1 Page E-5 Page E-7 Section F – Endowment Fund V-P Report Board of Directors CID Endowment Nominees Resolution Audit Page F-1 Page F-2 Page F-2 Page F-3 Page F-16 Section G – Church Extension Fund Board of Trustees CEF Nominees Resolution Page G-1 Page G-2 Page G-5 Section H – CID Audit CID Audit A-1 A-3 A-4 A-5 A-5 A-6 A-8 C-1 C-2 C-3 C-7 Central Illinois District Convention Schedule July 5-7, 2015 SUNDAY, July 5 3:00-6:00 pm 3:00-6:00 pm 7:00 pm Registration at the Crowne Plaza Exhibits open Opening Communion Service Trinity–Springfield: 1st VP Rev. Dr. Herbert Mueller preaches MONDAY, July 6 7:00 am 7:00 am 8:00 am Registration at the Crowne Plaza Exhibits open Call to Order Opening Devotion 8:15 am Report of Credentials Committee Ratify Agenda Adopting Standing Rules Introduction of Parliamentarian 8:25 am Floor Committee – Convention Resolutions Approval of Congregational Constitutions Welcome new workers to LCMS in past 3 years Session 1 2015 Convention 8:35 am 8:40 am 8:50 am 9:05 am 9:45 am 9:50 am 10:20 am 10:25 am 10:30 am 10:40 am 11:20 am 11:50 am 11:55 am District Secretary: Nominations for CID President Elections Committee President’s Address [15 min.] Convention Essay Part 1 Dr. Ken Schurb, essayist Elections Committee – Vice Presidents Floor Committee – Convention Resolutions Elections Committee – Vice Presidents Nominations Committee – Other Offices Elections Committee Dr. Herbert Mueller, Synodical Representative Floor Committee – Convention Resolutions Elections Committee Closing Prayer 12 Noon Lunch 1:30 pm Caucus – Choose Advisory Delegates for 2016 Synod Convention Glenn Goeres – Commissioned Workers (cont.) Rev. Rick Milas – Advisory Pastors (Emeritus, Candidates, Asst. Pastors) Section A – Convention Information Page A-1 Session 2 2:00 pm CID CHURCH EXTENSION FUND CONVENTION AND ELECTIONS 3:00 pm 3:10 pm 3:15 pm 4:00 pm Opening Prayer Elections Committee Floor Committee – Convention Resolutions Dr. Herbert Mueller Synodical Representative Q and A Floor Committee Convention Essay Part 2 Dr. Ken Schurb essayist District LWML Representative District LLL Representative CPH Representative Special Presentation Closing Prayer 4:30 pm 4:50 pm 5:30 pm 5:35 pm 5:40 pm 5:45 pm 5:55 pm TUESDAY July 7 Session 3 6:00 pm CID ENDOWMENT FUND CONVENTION AND ELECTIONS 6:30 pm 7:30 – 9 pm Dinner Fellowship sponsored by CID CEF 7:00 am Registration 8:00 am 8:30 am 9:10 am 9:35 am 10:00 am 11:10 am 11:30 am 11:40 am 12 Noon Opening Devotion (Memorial Service) Convention Essay Part 3 Dr. Ken Schurb essayist Floor Committee – Convention Resolutions LC-MS Video Report Floor Committee – Convention Resolutions Guest(s) Credentials Committee Final Report Closing Devotions and Installation of Officers Adjournment Following adjournment the newly elected and reelected CID Board of Directors members will have a short meeting at the rostrum. 2015 Convention Section A – Convention Information Page A-2 BOARD OF DIRECTORS 2012-2015 TRIENNIUM President First Vice-President Second Vice-President Secretary Assistant Secretary Financial Secretary Treasurer Rev. Mark A. Miller Rev. Kent Tibben Rev. Daniel Bishop Rev. Rick Milas Rev. Michael Mohr Mr. Robert Dalton Mr. John Myers, Jr. Pastors: Rev. Dan Olson (2012-2014) Rev. Peter Brechbuhl (2014-present) Rev. Donald Pritchard Rev. Bruce Scarbeary Rev. James Wright Teachers: Mr. Daniel Cluver (2012-2014) Mr. Nathan Landskroener (2014-present) Mr. Paul Thompson Laymen: Mr. Wayne Dietrich Mr. Harold A. Olsen Mr. Matthew Putnam Mr. Raymond Stuckemeyer CID Gift Planning Counselor: Rev. Charles Olander Administrative Assistants to the President: Rev. Joel Cluver, Missions/Evangelism/Human Care & Stewardship Mr. Glenn Goeres, Education & Congregational Life Support Staff: Mrs. Marsha Shown Mr. Hugh Shown Circuit Circuit Counselor Circuit Lay Delegate Altamont Bloomington North Bloomington South Champaign Decatur Effingham Iroquois Jacksonville Lincoln Mattoon Peoria Quincy Rock Island Shelby Springfield East Springfield West Tazewell Rev. William Emrick Rev. Joseph Burns Rev. David Bergelin Rev. Mark Elliott Rev. John Laux Rev. Gary Fortkamp Rev. Benjamin Meyer Rev. Joseph Eckman Rev. Wesley Reimnitz Rev. Ryan Fehrmann Rev. Mark Nelson Rev. Marlin Rempfer Rev. Gary Wright Rev. Glenn Strohschein Rev. Gaylord Spilker Rev. Clarence Rogers Rev. Kurt Mews Robert Williams Robert Peterson Cathy Cross M. Scott Breitenfeld Charles David Switzer Frederick Bray Jerry Niemann Gerald Raymond Nancy Olander Ted Snedeker Albert Schneider Larry Ehmen Robert Rauh Robert Roley Larry Wachtel Raymond Jordan Eric Spaeth 2015 Convention Section A – Convention Information Page A-3 2012-2015 Boards, Commissions, Committees * ** Chair CID Staff Commissions Mission Services Commission Rev. Daniel Bishop* Rev. Joel Cluver ** Mrs. Joyce Dodge Mrs. Liz Neumann Rev. Bruce Scarbeary Mr. Raymond Stuckemeyer Education Services Commission Mrs. Renata Anderson Mrs. Lisa Dippell* Mr. Glenn Goeres ** Mr. Paul Thompson Rev. Kent Tibben Rev. James Wright Evangelism Services Commission Rev. Peter Brechbuhl Rev. Joel Cluver ** Rev. Rick Milas Rev. Dan Smith Mrs. Karen Ruhlig Mr. Dale Wetherell* Stewardship Services Commission Rev. Joel Cluver ** Mr. Robert Dalton Mr. Robert Jahns Rev. Donald Pritchard* Rev. Kent Umbarger Mr. Steven Schumacher Congregational Life Commission Mr. Glenn Goeres ** Mr. Nathan Landskroener Rev. Michael Mohr Rev. Chris Nitzel Mr. Harold Olsen* Mr. Matt Winkelman Finance & Management Commission Mr. Wayne Dietrich * Mr. James Frazee Mr. Scott Hoeft Rev. Mark Miller** Mr. John Myers, Jr. Mr. Matt Putnam Committees (by Election): Congregational Constitution & District Handbook Committee Rev. Mark Eddy * Rev. Barry Long Mr. Edward Schoenbaum 2015 Convention 2015 District Nominations Committee Mr. Wayne Dietrich* Mr. Cliff Krueger Mr. Steven Schumacher Rev. David Speers Rev. James Stuenkel Mr. Dan Yagow, Secretary Rev. Kent Tibben, Advisory, 2012 Comm. Section A – Convention Information Page A-4 Committees (Appointed by the Board of Directors): Communication Services Committee Rev. Roger Abatie * Rev. Robert Bruer Mr. James Deverman Mr. Glenn Goeres, Editor Mr. Shawn Hoffmann Mr. Tim Mathis Rev. Mark Miller** Social Ministries / Human Care Committee Mr. Dan Bangert Rev. Joel Cluver ** Rev. Gaylord Spilker Mrs. Elaine Stuckemeyer Rev. Mel Weseloh Mr. Randy Wolf Auditing Committee Mrs. Deloris Blessman Miss Jenny Kleinschmidt Mr. Philip Muehl Archivist Committee Rev. David Bueltmann Mr. Stuart Fliege Rev. Michael Koschmann Rev. Mark Miller** Mr. Harold Olsen Mrs. Mary Olsen Mr. Ralph Woehrmann, Archivist* CID Disaster Response Team Mr. Randy Wolf, Response Coordinator Mr. Stephen Born, Regional Coordinator Committee (Appointed by the President): Ministerial Health Committee Rev. Mark Miller * Dr. Leslie (Jack) Fyans Mr. Glenn Goeres ** Mr. Ralph Mickley Rev. Thomas Radtke Rev. Wayne Hoffman Committees established by Commissions and approved by the Board: Developmentally Disabled Committee Parish Education Committee Rev. Joel Cluver ** Rev. Joseph Eckman Mrs. Joan Garbe Rev. David Hoehler Mrs. Linda Schaefer, DCS Mrs. Betsy Lash Rev. Sam Janssen* Mr. Glenn Goeres ** Mrs. Melissa Boehme (Mission Services Commission) (Education Services Commission) Student Aid Committee Youth Committee (Stewardship Services Commission) (Congregational Life Commission) Rev. Shawn Boylan Rev. Kevin Bueltmann Mr. Glenn Goeres ** Mrs. Clarissa Hippen* Mr. Mike Stroup Mr. Matt Winkelman Miss Carmen Yagow 2015 Convention Rev. Mark Miller ** Mr. Hugh Shown Rev. Donald Pritchard Mrs. Pam Spilker, LWML Rep. Mr. Glenn Goeres Section A – Convention Information Page A-5 2015 CONVENTION FLOOR COMMITTEES Ch-Chairman, P-Pastor, T-Teacher, L-Laymen, A-Staff Advisor Floor Committee – Convention Resolutions P: A: T: Ch: L: L: T: A: Rev. Joseph Burns Rev. Joel Cluver Mr. Trip Rodgers Rev. John Laux Mr. Stephen Parry Mr. Bernie Piercy Mr. Paul Thompson Rev. Mark Miller Editorial Advisor – Rev. Mark Eddy Nominations Committee Ch: L: T: P: P: T: Mr. Wayne Dietrich Mr. Clifford Krueger Mr. Steven Schumacher Rev. David Speers Rev. James Stuenkel Mr. Dan Yagow, Secretary Elections T: L: Ch: L: P: T: Mr. Ronald Krohse Mr. Harold Brown Rev. Gary Fortkamp Mr. David Drockelman Rev. William Emrick TBA L: T: T: P: L: Ch: A: Registration and Credentials Mr. Larry Wachtel Mr. Kent Rinker TBA Rev. Benjamin Meyer Mr. Danny Magelitz Rev. Thomas Heren Rev. Rick Milas, District Secretary 2015 Convention Section A – Convention Information Page A-6 PROPOSED STANDING RULES 1. The chair shall see that the agenda is followed as closely as possible, although the right is reserved by the chair to make adjustments as necessary. 2. Resolutions of each floor committee shall be presented normally in the numerical sequence published; however, the floor committee can present resolutions in the order it chooses. 3. Each delegate to the convention, when recognized, unless identified by the chair shall state his/her name and the name of the congregation, board or committee he/she is representing. 4. The 2-minute rule shall apply for all that speak from the floor. 5. While any voting delegate may call the question at any time, after 30 minutes of debate on any one motion, there shall be an automatic call of the question by the chair. You will not be allowed to speak on an issue and then call a question. 6. If a substitute motion is offered, the convention shall first decide by majority vote whether or not to consider the substitute. If the decision is in the affirmative and the substitute motion is adopted, the original motion fails; if the substitute motion does not receive a favorable action either to consider or to adopt, the original motion is again before the house. (This is the so-called “Behnken rule” for dealing with substitute motions.) 7. In the closing session of the convention the President shall have the privilege of calling up for action resolutions, which in his judgment must be acted upon by the convention before adjournment. 8. Resolutions prepared by the floor committees, which are not acted upon by the convention before adjournment, die. The subject matter may be reintroduced at the next convention. 9. The preface, preamble, and whereas sections shall be considered an integral part of the resolution or overture, and as such, subject to the same serious consideration and adoption in all its parts as the main motion itself. 10. Unless covered by these standing rules of the convention, Roberts Rules of Order shall govern parliamentary procedure. Above all, the rule of Christian love and behavior shall always apply. 11. Except in the elections of President and Vice-Presidents, when a second or succeeding ballot is required for a majority, the candidate receiving the fewest votes and all candidates receiving less than 15 percent of the votes cast shall be dropped from the ballot. 12. No new overtures/resolutions which have not been previously submitted to and approved by the floor committee can be presented during the final day of the convention. 2015 Convention Section A – Convention Information Page A-7 THE LUTHERAN CHURCH-MISSOURI SYNOD CENTRAL ILLINOIS DISTRICT 58th Regular Convention July 5 - 7, 2015 Voting Members of Synod Location Altamont Altamont Altamont Altamont Arenzville Athens Auburn Bath & Chandlerville Beardstown Bloomington Bloomington Bloomington Bowen Brimfield Broadlands Buckley Buffalo Casey Champaign Champaign Champaign Chapin Charleston Chatham Chenoa Chestnut & Clinton Cissna Park Cissna Park Clayton Coal Valley Colona Danvers & Minier Danville Danville Decatur Decatur Decatur Decatur Decatur Delavan & San Jose Dieterich East Moline East Moline East Peoria Edinburg Congregation Bethlehem Immanuel St. Paul Zion Trinity Immanuel Trinity St. John’s Salem St. John’s Good Shepherd Our Redeemer Trinity St. Paul’s St. Paul Immanuel St. John’s Risen Savior Trinity Friendship of Joy St. John University St. Paul Immanuel St. John’s St. Paul Zion Christ Immanuel Trinity Good Shepherd Trinity Beautiful Savior Zion Good Shepherd Immanuel Trinity Concordia Mt. Calvary St. John’s St. Paul’s Trinity Christ St. Luke Grace St. John Zion St. Peter Trinity 2015 Convention Pastoral Delegate Clayton Vail Bernard Ross David Speers Lay Delegate (Alternate) Matthew Putnam Aaron McManaway Raymond Stuckemeyer Ron Siebert Steve Carls Teresa Becker Willard Wietfeldt Ronnie Putnam Wayne Mueller James Frazee Stephen Parey William Ohlendorf Brett Bloebaum Burdette Rosendale Jeff Nelson Kevin Block Willard Bohlmann Rev. Brian Pape Tracey Reed Mark Wetzel Rick Shepard Jeff Voeks Rick Milas Scot Breitenfeld Kenneth Hoover Clarence Rogers Jeremy Latzke David Dunlop Charles Lowell Donald Ladage Kenneth Shane Ben Barth Andrew Dierks Richard Becker Martin Kaufmann Brian Lesemann Douglas Evenson Chad Lueck Peter Weeks Thomas Wirsing Larry Troxel Michael Liese John Sharp David Hallerberg Charles Bennett Steve Schultz Keith Bueltmann Timothy Hahn Kirk Cunningham Robert Hagen Laura Severson Robert Shay Frank Zimmerman Larry Dunn David Jepsen Robert Jahns Stan Kaeb Jimmie Oaks Greg Hepner Kermit Schnitker Michael Heidle Kent Tibben Robert Bruer David Ammermann Roger Burge Howard Brown Dean Hull Doug Barthalow Jim Hickman Russell Weise Doug Bender John Laux Justin Schmidt Les Dippel Roy Luecke John Casebeer Roger Garlisch Bill Buechsenschuetz Raymond Renken Kent Umbarger Gary Wright Kurt Mews Gaylord Spilker Gloria Fortkamp James Homann Dan Oltman Bernie Piercy Tom Breidenbaugh Section A – Convention Information Mark Behrns Ralph Grotelueschen Dennis Metsker Page A-8 Location Congregation Effingham El Paso Eureka Fisher Flora Galesburg Geneseo Geneseo Golden Green Valley Havana Hoopeston Jacksonville Jacksonville Jacksonville Kewanee Kewanee La Rose & Washington Lawrenceville & Robinson Lexington Lincoln Lincoln Loda Louisville Macomb Manito Manito Mason City Mattoon Mattoon Milan Milford Moline Monticello Morton Mt. Pulaski Mt. Zion New Berlin New Holland Newton Normal Onarga Pana Paris Pekin Pekin Peoria St. John’s Trinity Our Redeemer Immanuel-Osman Faith Mt. Calvary Concordia St. John Holy Cross St. John’s St. Paul Good Shepherd Christ Our Redeemer Salem Faith St. Paul’s Trinity St. John Our Savior Our Redeemer St. Paul Faith Zion Immanuel St. John’s Immanuel St. Paul Trinity Christ St. John’s St. Paul St. Matthew Our Savior Holy Cross Faith Bethel Zion Mt. Zion St. John Zion Good Shepherd Christ St. John’s St. Paul Grace St. John’s Trinity Christ Peoria Immanuel Peoria Peoria Pastoral Delegate Theodore Gall Jonathan Boehne Joseph Burns Lay Delegate (Alternate) Gayland Bourland Paul Meyers Michael Grieve Kevin Bueltmann Kevin Wendorf Fred Bray Larry Finck Don Edie Brenda Hendricks Ginger Kramp Randy Robertson Richard McMullen Michael Kolb Seth Vermillion Jim Fairchild Michael Roos Thomas Phillips David Knuth Peter Brechbuhl Harold Kester Brian Dawson Danny Magelitz Albert Moore Burnell Eckardt Steve Harris Allen Kramp Daniel Smith Stephen Mueller Greg Schafer Walter Latzke Linda Yardley Gary Hutchinson Mark Peters Mark Thompson David Allen Ryan Eden Michael Burdick Gene Haug Gerry Weaver John Johnson Troy Countryman Jeff Tracy David Opperman Daris Knaver Stanley Joergens Clinton Pedigo Kenneth Emme Lynn Coers David Bergman Larry Miller Don Wendling Lynn Wolfmeyer Dan Houston Gregory Michel Karl Gibbs Wilfred Karsten Kurtis Bueltmann Jeff Anderson Bruce Hunt Alan Nordstrom Greg Schussele Jim Arnholt Terrence O’Brien Ryan Fehrmann Daniel Bishop Rodger Abatie Karl Eckhoff Don Freeman Phil Blankenburg Stewart Schmidgall Thomas Cross Ted Switzer Robert Dalton Nancy Olander Mike Blievernicht Douglas Grovesteen Francis Thompsen Lee Eilers Anna Carson Dave Drockelman Robert Fornoff Matt Vandevoorde Mt. Calvary Barry Long Susan Fink Conley Stutz Redeemer Ted Benson Jason Bye Greg Fairchild Peoria Trinity Mark Nelson Roger Meyer Dick Linse Peru Redeemer Petersburg Bethlehem Jeffrey Gross Ray Jordan Terry Frye 2015 Convention David Benning Charles Olander Michael Seidenstricker Jonathan Huehn Section A – Convention Information Greg Hanselman Al Rust David Switzer William Pfeffer Lindell Wenthe Buck Miller Ted Snedeker Darla Schorr Eric Spaeth Chad Whitehead Page A-9 Location Pittsfield Pleasant Plains Quincy Quincy Quincy Riverton Roanoke Rochester Rock Island Rushville & Mt. Sterling Sadorus Salem Secor Shelbyville Sherman Shobonier Shobonier Shumway Sigel Springfield Springfield Springfield Springfield Springfield St. Joseph St. Peter Stewardson Strasburg Strasburg Sullivan Thawville Taylor Ridge Taylorville Thomasboro Tuscola Urbana Vandalia Warsaw & Washington Watseka Waverly Wenona & Varna Wheeler & Dieterich Winchester & Bluffs Woodworth Congregation St. Paul Zion Our Redeemer St. James St. John Immanuel Trinity Good Shepherd Immanuel St. John First St. Paul Salem St. John’s Holy Cross Good Shepherd Immanuel St. Paul Faith St. Paul’s Concordia Holy Trinity Immanuel Our Savior Trinity Our Savior St. Peter Trinity Grace St. Paul’s Faith St. Peter Zion Trinity Peace Immanuel Trinity Holy Cross Concordia Our Savior Calvary Christ Zion St. Paul St. Paul St. Paul Christ Trinity St. Paul (Milford) 2015 Convention Pastoral Delegate Lay Delegate Stephen Southward Donald Pritchard Martin Eden Marlin Rempfer Steven Hayden Michael Koschmann Bruce Scarbeary Samuel Janssen Leonard Astrowski Joseph Eckman Larry Krusemark Ted Mahler Larry Ehmen Mike Bakalyar Douglas Allen Larry Marxman Sandra Remmers Matthew Schorfheide Vernon Soeken Lowell Haschemeyer William Gauger Douglas Meyer Michael Peters E. Wade Helmkamp Michael Schuermann Josh Frazee Robert Ritter Marty Maurer Randy Wilkey John Shambo Larry Wachtel Lee Schaal Jason Rensner Tim Frey Grace Frey Robert Morgan James Hennig Darrell Debowey Joshua Traxel Paul Hemenway Scott Weiler William Emrick David Weaver Michael Mohr Steven Becker Paul McGhghy Dave Lientz David Litviak Steve Rossman (Alternate) Brad Mahler Tim Wilcoxen Mel Vogel Tabatha Haschemeyer Chuck Hubbart Michael Dannewitz Rich Meier Janice Althoff Charles Krell Mark Eddy Rodney Blomquist Mark Wollin Brad Friese Robert Roley Roger Kull Denny Hutchings Ronald Ennen William Wilkens Zelma Hinkel Jason Braaten Shawn Boylan Jerry Bagwell Lester Dumer Thomas Heren Donald Love Keith Pereira Peter Glock Joshua Whitson David Kuehn Corey Rabe Betty Redenius Gary Marshall Russell Rudd Robert Kriege Jan Hoge Greg Nau Stephen Gillet Walt Marcelli Dennis Blievernicht Vinny Zacha Lee Harsch Bob Minnis Eric Warlow Larry Parchert Cecil Polley Bob Wiseman David Seiz David Vortman Benjamin Meyer Section A – Convention Information Page A-10 FIRST VICE-PRESIDENT’S REPORT It has been my privilege and honor to serve, along with President Mark Miller and Pastor Daniel Bishop, on the presidium of the Central Illinois District. I am thankful to Pastor Bishop for his service as board chaplain and for preparing the board for its important work at each meeting through the hearing of the Word of God and prayer. President Miller has grown into the office of District President and, aside from a single ordination and installation, has required very little assistance from me in fulfilling the duties of his office. Also deserving of thanks are the Executive Assistants to the President, Mr. Glenn Goeres and The Rev. Joel Cluver, for their invaluable participation in the work of the District’s commissions and committees and for their important contributions to the board meetings. Finally, I appreciate the pastors, teachers, and laymen for so faithfully and competently attending to the work entrusted to the board. The following work of the board is especially noteworthy: • • • • • • Revisiting the CID Salary Guidelines in an attempt to reflect churchly, rather than business, concerns. Supporting, in part, outreach to the Hispanic communities in the Quad Cities and Beardstown. Seeking to be good stewards of the offerings forwarded to the district, especially at a time when personal and congregational budgets are stressed. It must be said that the generosity of our congregations at the end of 2014 was nothing short of miraculous. Publishing the district offerings of each congregation and the corresponding per communicant giving in order to encourage, not shame, congregations in their efforts to support the work of the district. Printing a study of membership, attendance, baptism, and confirmation statistics of our CID congregations spanning the last 25 years. Approving a marriage policy to protect our missionaries-at-large and campus pastors in the wake of the legalization of same-sex marriage in Illinois. I pray God’s continued blessing on our district and her congregations, workers, and laity as we stand in God’s free and boundless grace and seek to make it known to our unbelieving neighbors. Respectfully Submitted, The Rev. Kent A. Tibben, 1st VP and Chairman of the CID BOD 2015 Convention Section B – Reports Page B-9 SECOND VICE-PRESIDENT’S REPORT It has been a humbling honor and privilege to serve as the Second Vice-President of the District this past triennium. The duties of the Vice-Presidents are to advise, assist, or represent the President upon his request. President Miller has been very kind and considerate in keeping his requests reasonable and manageable, so that the duties of this office have not been burdensome. In this office I have participated in regular meetings of the Praesidium. Working with President Miller and First Vice-President Tibben has been a pleasant privilege, as they are both faithful and able churchmen. I have also participated in regular meetings of the Board of Directors, serving as its Chaplain. I am grateful for the faithful and capable men who serve on this Board, including our District staff members. I also completed another term on the Mission Commission, serving as its Chairman. May the Lord continue to bless the congregations, pastors, teachers, and other church workers of the CID through His gospel gifts, and work in and through all of us for the gracious purposes of His kingdom. Respectfully submitted, Pastor Daniel J. Bishop, 2nd VP 2015 Convention Section B – Reports Page B-10 CID President’s Report - 2015 We cannot bury the treasure entrusted to us. People are dying and we are to speak and spread the Gospel that they might know life instead, even as we have come to know it. That is what we have been doing and will continue to do because we have a command (“Speak My Word faithfully”… “Make disciples by baptizing… and teaching”) and a promise (“My Word shall not return void, but will accomplish My purpose”… “Faith comes by hearing the Word of Christ”). Like first-century farmers we cast the seed and some of it grows to bear much fruit. Yes, some plant, some cultivate, others water the seed, but in all things it is God who “provides the increase” that He would receive the glory. So whoever “boasts, let him boast in the Lord.” Our successes are His doing! Any fruit that comes is due to our being grafted as branches to the living Vine, “apart from whom we can do nothing.” All these Scriptural allusions show that, no matter what, the Mission of Christ’s Church remains the chief endeavor of the disciples of our Lord, in every generation, even as we benefit from the abundant and unquenchable grace of God revealed in Jesus Christ and which is ours by His merit and through trust in His Word. It is for this Mission that the Church continues to exist. But what gives us life and hope is nothing less than the content of that Mission message focused on a life lived, a cross endured, a death suffered, and an empty tomb left behind by the ever-living and ever-reigning Jesus, the Son of Mary and the Son of God. God’s Grace in Christ Jesus, free – because it cost us nothing, and boundless – because His was a Sacrifice given once for all, is the sum and basis of our eternal confidence. In the face of this Gospel truth how can any pessimism be maintained? However, our flesh, itself hostile to spiritual things, lives in a hostile world fighting against its Creator, and the enemy seeks our downfall and demise prowling about as a roaring lion seeking someone to devour. These harsh circumstances under which we must proclaim His Word cause us to tremble and would detract from our witness and if it were, in any part, entirely left up to us we would have made a shambles of the whole thing long ago. The state of Christ’s Church is good, very good, and its foundation (“of the Apostles and prophets, Jesus Christ being the chief cornerstone”) is not undermined. The gates of hell shall not prevail over it. However, is that what our senses perceive? Despite whatever else we might observe, we confess and believe in the one, holy, Christian and apostolic Church! Yes, the influence of the Christian Church in Europe and North America is waning, while burgeoning in places like Africa and Asia. Modern western society is turning from the law of God to a different standard, with relish. Just in this last triennium, the Illinois legislature approved same-sex marriage and now the Supreme Court of the United States is scheduled to chime in with its opinion about what that will mean for the nation’s laws and, subsequently, for our churches in this land. In the name of freedom and civil rights what, not too long ago, was labeled as aberrant and anti-social behavior is seeking tolerance and acceptance no matter how great the abomination. The media has been an ally to this movement and our children and grandchildren cannot see what the big deal is. We have been either on the silent or tolerant side of the argument and so we too are part of the problem. Throughout the world the rise of Islamic extremism has put Christians on notice that the Faith may require their life in witness and martyrdom. Persecution continues among us in the sense that we are made to feel bad or embarrassed for being a Christian so that our witness is shutdown early on. We wouldn’t want others to know that we are ONE of them! We are called to give voice to the hope within us and yet we’re mostly ashamed to speak of Jesus in polite conversation with our neighbors and friends. We and our beliefs are knocked as evil and what the world is doing and teaching instead, and without God, is considered good and beneficial, freeing us from our “superstitious” past. In our churches, we are told that 80-85% of our congregations are plateaued or declining. The Central Illinois District is about 60% rural and our rural communities are having a hard time maintaining their schools and business districts let alone their young adults. The death knell, even now, is ringing for congregations in which less than 100 are in worship on any given Sunday. Where 55% of the membership was in church during the 50s and 60s, by the 1980s the number was down to 35% and now it is about 20%. 20% of the US population is pleased to declare itself religiously unaffiliated. We notice the greying of the people in our pews. This, in turn, affects the congregation’s financial stability. Before most congregations sputter and die, they will be sharing a pastor, forming dual parishes, seeking part-time pastoral assistance, looking for a retired pastor who could draw a pension, or asking their pastor to seek secular employment to supplement his salary. Still we see the Lord at work as He adds to the Church those who are being saved. Baptism and teaching still continue among us. We see the light in multi-cultural mission efforts although it is a hard path to hoe. We will reach out in the future (if outreach is what we will be engaged in and we must be) to those unlike us in color, national origin, and mother tongue. We have only made a beginning of this within our boundaries. Our congregations will focus again on the mission of the church which does not look inward as much as our sight is set beyond our doors and throughout our communities for those in need of our acts of mercy and His message. Our denominational loyalties are decreasing with most parishioners unable to understand or explain why the Synod or District exists and what they do. Pastors are more likely to emphasize local circumstances and challenges than the broader picture and the congregation’s obligations. This has led to parishes balancing their budget at the expense of what the Synod and District do in our behalf. Our 18 CID missions are all of us working together to raise up a new congregation, or gather an ethnic people, or minister to those with special needs, or offer the Word of God to those who are attending the University away from home, or those who are imprisoned, or sick, or in need. The Synod and the District supply support services for our congregations as they look for pastors, principals, parochial school teachers, and other professional church workers. We provide over $90,000 in scholarship support each year for our CID students studying to enter these fields in our Church. We support our two seminaries in their work of forming pastors for our future needs. Our continued commitment as a District depends on each congregation’s support of our joint Mission work lifting high the cross of Christ. As I perform my duties, it becomes ever disconcerting that the Lord would allow a feeble sinner to occupy this humbling office, but then again, that’s all He has to work with. I deeply appreciate the prayers offered for me at the Lord’s altar in your congregations by your pastors. I am deeply thankful that the Lord offers more forgiveness than I have sins, and I have plenty of them. I beg your forgiveness if I let anyone down by failing to do what the Lord would have had me do. What ultimately sustains me is that the Lord has already shed His blood for you, for me, for all, so that I proceed in the depth of His mercy, the acceptance of His love, and the freedom of His pardon. In the last triennium, I visited about 90 congregations in various capacities and at various levels of service. I visited every circuit pastors’ conference (winkels) at least once. I preached 84 times. I conducted 13 ordinations and installations. I attended, conducted, and participated in 241 meetings of which 25 were District Board of Directors meetings, 17 were regular meetings of the Council of Presidents, and 6 more were regional meetings with the Great Lakes area District Presidents. I also met with and took phone calls from numerous pastors, church workers, congregational leaders, and lay people. I thank the staff at the District Office which engages in much hard work in your behalf. Rev. Joel Cluver is immensely helpful in the areas of Mission, Evangelism, and Stewardship and his institutional memory and experience are an asset to me, to CID and its 154 congregations. His kind heart, humble spirit and his missionary zeal push us forward in bringing the Good News of our Savior to a hurting world found in our own backyard. Mr. Glenn Goeres covers much territory in the areas of our commissioned workers and our schools and parishes. He also is my assistant in the areas of Congregational Life, Parish Education, and Youth. He serves as general editor for our District publications, and has willingly taken on every hat thrown his way as advisor and troubleshooter. The CID office staff, competently made up of Hugh and Marsha Shown, makes sure that visitors and callers are hospitably welcomed and they render quick and willing service to the execs and me whenever we ask. Hugh serves as bookkeeper and co-business manager. He generates reports, letters, and checks with speed and skill that keeps the business of the Central Illinois District running smoothly and swiftly. Marsha as administrative assistant and receptionist takes care of almost everything else and leaves very few, if any, strings dangling. Her years of experience at the District Office are helpful in many ways. These all gladly serve the Lord in His name and to His glory, and for them all, the whole District should be truly thankful. We also are appreciative of all that the CID Church Extension Fund (a separately constituted agency) does in behalf of the District, its missions, our congregations and parochial schools. Mr. David Rohe, its executive director, and Mrs. Susan Bachmann, the executive assistant, are more than able to conduct the business of this organization under the auspices of a more than capable Board of Trustees. This is another entity in our midst by which the Lord’s mission is carried out. Yes, despite the seeming impossible nature of the task, the mission must go on to reach out to the lost and dying, the message must go forward with the Word of life that is ours in Christ Jesus. This is the will of our heavenly Father and we are empowered by His Spirit. It all starts from extravagant grace, poured out – free and boundless. And despite any discouraging evidence to the contrary, the state of Christ’s Church is good, very good! After all, it is, in every way, His Church! Your servant in Christ Jesus, Mark A. Miller PASTORS & GRADUATES ENTERING THE DISTRICT (ORDINATION/INSTALLATION DATES: APRIL 2012-APRIL 2015) Atrowski, Leonard (MI) installed at Immanuel, Rock Island 11/9/2014 by Rev. Gary Wright. Balfour, Edward (NE) emeritus, Cape Elizabeth, ME 7/29/2014. Bender, Douglas (STL 2014) ordained and installed at St. Paul, Decatur 7/13/2014 by Rev. Kent Tibben. Benning, David (SWD) installed at St. John, New Berlin, 8/10/2014 by Rev. Mark Miller. Boylan, Shawn (CNH) candidate, installed at Christ High School, Buckley 8/19/2013 by Rev. Timothy Hahn. Deen II, Keffie (NID) candidate, Rantoul 6/9/2014. Dierks, Andrew (FTW 2013) ordained and installed at Trinity, Arenzville 6/20/2013 by Rev. Mark Miller. Dunlop, David (FTW 2014) ordained and installed at Zion/Christ, Chestnut/Clinton 7/13/2014 by Rev. Mark Miller. Eggold, Daniel (IN) installed at Our Savior, Springfield 8/12/2012 by Rev. David Bueltmann. Fieberkorn, Michael (STL 2013) ordained and installed at St. James, Quincy 6/9/2013 by Rev. Mark Miller. Frazee, Joshua (STL 2013) ordained at St. John, Beardstown 6/23/2013 by Rev. Mark Miller and installed at Immanuel (Augsburg), Shobonier 6/30/2013 by Rev. Douglas Meyer. Garchow, Paul (SWD) emeritus, Mattoon 1/1/2013. Gruden, Mark (TX) candidate, East Peoria 7/8/2013. Heidle, Michael (FLGA) installed at Immanuel, Danville 8/4/2012 by Rev. David Bueltmann. Hemenway, Paul (SID) installed at Trinity, Springfield 1/27/2013 by Rev. Mark Miller. Heyden, Steven (PSW) installed at St. John, Quincy 12/9/2012 by Rev. Mark Miller. Hopkins, Paul (MI) installed at St. Paul, Mattoon 11/4/2012 by Rev. Mark Miller. Huehn, Jonathan (NID) installed at Christ, Normal 6/2/2012 by Rev. Donald Pritchard. Jacobsen, Adam (FTW 2013) ordained and installed at St. John, Mattoon 6/23/2013 by Rev. Ryan Fehrmann. Kaufmann, Martin (TX) installed at Trinity, Auburn 7/28/2013 by Rev. Mark Miller. Mangold, Kenneth (NWD) installed at St. John/Trinity, Washburn/LaRose 2/24/2013 by Rev. Mark Miller. Murdock, Cecil (MO) emeritus, Hampton 6/26/2014. Nilges, Christopher (MNS) candidate, installed at Concordia Village LSS, Springfield 1/16/2014 by Rev. Mark Miller. Peters, Michael (FTW) ordained and installed at St. John, Secor 7/13/2014 by Rev. Daniel Bishop. Ray, Adam (STL 2013) ordained & installed at St. John, Decatur 8/11/2013 by Rev. Mark Miller. Ross III, Bernard (STL 2014) ordained at Hope, St. Ann, MO 6/22/2014 by Rev. Mark Miller and installed at Immanuel, Altamont 7/6/2014 by Rev. William Emrick. Sansom, James (NWD) installed at St. John, Green Valley 10/12/2014 by Rev. Thomas Heren. Scheuermann, Michael (TX) installed at Good Shepherd, Springfield 10/24/2012 by Rev. Mark Miller. Synnott, Matthew (STL 2012) ordained at Our Savior, Houston, TX 6/10/2012 by Rev. Mark Nelson; installed at Trinity, Peoria 7/1/2012 by Rev. David Bueltmann. 2015 Convention Section B – Reports Page B-1 Traxel, Joshua (STL 2013) ordained and installed at Our Savior, Springfield 7/14/2013 by Rev. Mark Miller. Weaver, David (NEB) installed at Trinity, Stewardson 6/8/2014 by Rev. Mark Miller. Weaver, Gerry (NEB) installed at Trinity, Manito 7/28/2013 by Rev. Wesley Reimnitz. Weeks, Peter (FLGA) installed at Our Redeemer, Bloomington 8/10/2014 by Rev. David Bergelin. CHANGES OF PASTORS WITHIN THE DISTRICT Bahr, Michael active to candidate 3/16/2014. Barth, Robert active to emeritus 10/1/2013. Bishop, Daniel installed at St. John, Pekin 4/7/2013. Boylan, Shawn installed as Associate at Trinity, Urbana 8/17/2014 by Rev. Mark Elliott. Bueltmann, David active to emeritus 9/1/2012. Callahan, Phillip active to candidate 11/18/2014. Chambers, Danny active to candidate 9/23/2012. Countryman, Troy associate to Senior, installed at St. John, Mattoon 9/30/2012 by Rev. Ryan Fehrmann. Disbro, Roger non-candidate to emeritus 3/27/2014. Fienen, Daniel active to emeritus 7/1/2012. Gallo, Stephen active to emeritus 6/30/2014. Gruden, Mark installed at St. John/Trinity, Washburn/LaRose 10/5/2014 by Rev. Mark Miller. Harre, Richard active to emeritus 4/30/2013. Hoffman, Wayne active to emeritus 7/2/2012. Kinnee, L. Earl candidate to non-candidate 11/30/12. Kloepping, Michael active to candidate 4/1/2014. Koch, Jerome active to emeritus 1/4/2015. Latzke, Jeremy installed at St. Paul, Chenoa 3/22/2015 by Rev. Mark Miller. Mangold, Kenneth active to candidate 5/1/2014. Miller, Mark installed as CID President 7/10/2012 by Rev. Matthew Harrison. Mueller, Stephen installed at Concordia, Geneseo 6/17/2012 by Rev. David Bueltmann. Niemann, Glenn active to candidate 1/15/2014. Poynter, Michael active to candidate 10/1/2014. Radtke, Thomas active to emeritus 5/31/2012. Rediehs, Robert active to emeritus 9/1/2013. Reimnitz, Wesley active to emeritus 6/30/2014. Schmidt, Alvin active to emeritus 9/1/2012. Schmidt, Justin candidate, installed at St. Luke/Christ, San Jose/Delavan 4/7/2013 by Rev. Wesley Reimnitz. Seyboldt, David reinstated to roster by COP 2/19/2013. Steinbeck, Allen active to candidate 6/1/2013. Wendorf, Kevin installed at St. Paul, Havana 8/17/2014 by Rev. Mark Miller. Weber, Paul candidate to non-candidate 5/20/2012. Wohlrabe, John Jr. active to emeritus 6/16/2012. 2015 Convention Section B – Reports Page B-2 Wyckoff, J. Kevin installed at St. John, Buckley 11/30/2014 by Rev. Mark Miller. PASTORS TRANSFERRED TO OTHER DISTRICTS Adle, Scott to Southern Illinois District 12/1/2013. Anderson, Steven to Iowa East District 3/18/2013. Cramm, Kevin candidate to Oklahoma District 10/21/2014. Decker, Christopher to Nebraska District 10/6/2014. Dietrich, Joel to Northern Illinois District 3/16/2014. Eggold, Daniel to Missouri District 8/31/2014. Fienen, Daniel to Michigan District 4/21/2014. Fisher, Robert emeritus to New England District 8/7/2014. Garchow, Paul emeritus to Northern Illinois District 9/4/2013. Haeger, Martin to Missouri District 12/7/2012. Hoffman, Zachary to Florida-Georgia District 10/15/2014. Hopfensperger, Bryan to Minnesota North District 9/10/2012. Hughes, Joseph to Kansas District 8/12/2012. Johnson, Charles candidate to Mid-South District 4/15/2013. Koch, Jerome to Indiana District 2/25/2015. Manor, Jonathan to New England District 8/19/2013. Meyer, Joseph to Iowa West District 10/15/2014. Meyer, Rollie to Pacific Southwest District 7/25/2012. Milash, Bruce to Northern Illinois District 1/1/2013. Mrosko, Robert to South Wisconsin District 10/15/2012. Nitzel, Christopher to Iowa West District 4/13/2015. Olson, Daniel to North Wisconsin District 7/14/2014. Ramirez, David to South Wisconsin District 1/19/2015. Riddle, J. Derek to Michigan District 6/11/2012. Ruhlig, Michael to Texas District 6/4/2014. Schnelle, Aaron to Northern Illinois District 7/26/2013. Serr, Kenneth to South Wisconsin District 12/31/2012. Seyboldt, David to Indiana District 8/22/2013. Vierkant, Jonathan to Northern Illinois District 8/12/2013. Wenndt, Thomas candidate to Florida-Georgia District 8/12/2013. Wohlrabe, John Jr. to South Wisconsin District 6/17/2012. PASTORS RESIGNED, OR REMOVED NONE PASTORS CALLED TO GLORY Beiderweiden, John 1/19/2013 Bessinger, David 6/5/2012 Bremer, Richard 10/28/2013 Frey, David 6/18/2014 Mangold, Kenneth 9/26/2014 2015 Convention Stamm, Richard 3/21/2014 Wendler, Harlan 7/15/2013 Section B – Reports Page B-3 CONGREGATIONS ADDED TO DISTRICT NONE CONGREGATIONS DISBANDED OR REMOVED FROM THE DISTRICT Immanuel, Arenzville disbanded 12/29/2013. Grace, Canton disbanded 1/27/2013. Trinity, Onarga disbanded 10/5/2014. 2015 Convention Section B – Reports Page B-4 COMMISSIONED MINISTERS & GRADUATES ENTERING THE DISTRICT Ballentyne, Lynn commissioned and installed as teacher at Danville Lutheran School 8/17/2014 by Rev. Kent Tibben. Bowden, Sue (MN North) transferred as emeritus to CID 10/30/2012. Boylan, Rachel (CUN) commissioned and installed as teacher at Christ Lutheran High School – Buckley 8/13/2012 by Rev. Benjamin Meyer. Brown, Kirsten (CUC) commissioned and installed as teacher at Trinity – Bloomington 8/19/2012 by Rev. Thomas Wirsing. Brown, Wendy (CUN) commissioned and installed as teacher at Trinity Lutheran School – Springfield 2/10/2013 by Rev. Paul Hemenway. Bulava, Adam (Candidate) installed as teacher at the Lutheran School Association – Decatur 9/09/2012 by Rev. Michael Damery. Crawford, Elizabeth (SWI) installed as teacher at St. John – Champaign 8/18/2013 by Rev. Mark Elliott. Dressler, Kelly installed as teacher at Danville Lutheran School 8/10/2014 by Rev. Michael Heidle. Engelking, Kelly (CUC) commissioned and installed as teacher at Zion-Mt. Pulaski 8/12/2012 by Rev. Christopher Decker. Flach, Robinette (NID) transferred to CID 6/30/2015. George, Connie (IN) installed as teacher at Our Savior’s – Springfield 8/25/2013 by Rev. Joshua Traxel. Gibson, Daniel (CUN) commissioned and installed as teacher at the Lutheran School Association – Decatur 9/08/2013 by Rev. Robert Bruer. Greve, Timothy (S. Wisconsin) installed as teacher at the Lutheran School Association – Decatur 9/08/2013 by Rev. Robert Bruer. Groth, Justin (CUN) commissioned and installed as teacher at the Lutheran School Association – Decatur 9/09/2012 by Rev. Michael Damery. Gustafson, Abigail (CUW) commissioned and installed as teacher at Zion – Mt. Pulaski 8/18/2013 by Rev. Christopher Decker. Hipple, Eric installed as teacher at Concordia – Peoria 9/07/2014 by Rev. Joseph Meyer. Janetzke, Emily transferred to the CID as a non-candidate status teacher 1/22/2015. Luedtke, Janet (Northwest District) transferred as emeritus to CID 11/26/2012. Luedtke, Todd (Northwest District) transferred as emeritus to CID 11/26/2012. Manor, Tiffany (CTSFW) commissioned and installed as deaconess at Lutheran Church of Charities 8/25/2012 by Rev. David Bueltmann. Marcis, Molly (CUC) commissioned and installed as DCE at Friendship Lutheran Church of Joy – Champaign 8/04/2013 by Rev. Brian Pape. McCartney, Michael commissioned and installed as teacher at Trinity – Springfield 8/24/2014 by Rev. Paul Hemenway. Metcalf, Emily (CUN) commissioned and installed as teacher at Our Savior’s – Springfield 8/25/2013 by Rev. Joshua Traxel. Montgomery, Andrew (CUC) commissioned and installed as teacher at Our Savior’s – Springfield 8/25/2013 by Rev. Joshua Traxel. Peacock, Amber commissioned and installed as teacher at St. John’s – Buckley 6/28/2014. 2015 Convention Section B – Reports Page B-5 Richter, Allison (PSW) installed as teacher at Bethel – Morton 8/11/2013 by Rev. Mark Anderson. Richter, Nathan (IA East) installed as high school principal at the Lutheran School Association – Decatur 9/09/2012 by Rev. Michael Damery. Roekle, Quinn (CUW) commissioned and installed as teacher at Good Shepherd – Pekin 8/18/2013 by Rev. Rodger Abatie. Roettjer, Jennifer was installed as Director of Children’s Ministry at Redeemer Lutheran Church – Peoria 8/17/2014 by Rev. Joseph Meyer. Schuette, Jessica (CUW) commissioned and installed as teacher at Good Shepherd – Pekin 8/18/2013 by Rev. Rodger Abatie. Schultz, Emilie installed as teacher at Our Savior’s – Springfield 8/24/2014 by Rev. Joshua Traxel. Sherohman, Steven (TX) installed as teacher at the Lutheran School Association – Decatur 9/09/2012 by Rev. Michael Damery. Sur, Elizabeth installed as teacher at Concordia – Peoria 9/07/2014 by Rev. Joseph Meyer. Viesselmann, Kate (CUW) commissioned and installed as teacher at Zion – Lincoln 8/11/2013 by Rev. Mark Thompson. Wagner, Alicia transferred to the CID as a candidate status DCE 1/05/2015. Watts, Sarah (Colloquy) commissioned and installed as teacher at Our Savior’s – Springfield 8/25/2013 by Rev. Joshua Traxel. Wittmann, Nicole commissioned and installed as Lay Minister/DCE at Calvary Lutheran Church, Watseka, IL 11/16/2014 by Rev. Donald Love. Yagow, Carmen (CUC) commissioned and installed as teacher at Our Savior’s – Springfield 8/19/2012 by Rev. Daniel Eggold. COMMISSIONED MINISTER CHANGES WITHIN THE DISTRICT Adel, Rose to non-candidate status 12/01/2010. Alexander, James to emeritus 11/01/2010. Barthel, Cathy changed her status from active to non-candidate effective 5/01/2010. Boehme, Joyce to emeritus 6/01/2010. Brookhart (Lessman), Ashley to candidate status 7/01/2011. Bueltmann, Kim installed as Campus Ministry Assistant at Concordia University Wisconsin on 8/28/2010 by Rev. John Willie. Bushre, Julie changed her status from candidate to non-candidate effective 11/01/2009. Elsas, Sandra to emeritus 7/01/2011. Fischer, Curtis to emeritus 6/01/2010. Folkmann, Stacy changed her status from active to candidate effective 3/1/2010. Friedrich, Karen installed as teacher at Lutheran High School, Springfield on 8/20/2009 by Rev. James Hennig. Gerberding, Jill installed as principal at Our Savior’s, Springfield on 8/22/2010 by Rev. Wayne Hoffman. Golchert, Kent installed as principal at Danville Lutheran School on 8/02/2009 by Rev. Daniel Fienen. Guldenstein, Paul to emeritus 6/01/2010. 2015 Convention Section B – Reports Page B-6 Heien, David to emeritus 7/01/2011. Hinz, Lois to emeritus 6/01/2010. Jacob, John installed as principal at Bethel – Morton on 7 24,2001 by Rev. Jeffrey Anderson. Koch, Sarah installed as Director of Children’s Ministry at St. Paul – Decautur on 8/07/2011 by Rev. Robert Mrosko. Krenzke (Buchinger), Christine to candidate status 9/01/2010. Krohse, Ronald to emeritus 7/01/2011. Kuehl, Amanda to candidate status 8/2009. Manahan, Renee installed as teacher at Good Shepherd, Pekin 8/14/2011 by Rev. Thomas Wenndt. McConkey, Peggy to emeritus 6/01/2010. McCormick, Sara installed as teacher at the Lutheran School Association, Decatur on 10/03/2010 by Rev. Robert Mrosko. Meyer, Christine installed as teacher at St. Paul – Milford on 8/22/2010 by Rev. Benjamin Meyer. Pummill, Louisa was granted an extension to non-candidate status by the Council of Presidents 9/22/2009. Robinson, James to candidate status 8/15/2010. Rudat, Sheila to candidate status 3/15/2011. Stroup, Donald to emeritus 6/01/2010. Stuckwisch, Sandra to emeritus 7/01/2011. Urban, Lawrence to emeritus 7/01/2011. Zink, Janet installed as teacher at Christ Lutheran High School, Rock Island on 8/16/2009 by Rev. Gary Wright. Zink, Janet to non-candidate status 9/01/2010. COMMISSIONED MINISTERS TRANSFERRED TO OTHER DISTRICTS Ashely, Jeremy to Minnesota South District 6/01/2010. Baisch, Evelyn (non-candidate) was transferred to the Mid-South District 12/01/2009. Barthel, Cathy to Ohio District 11/01/2010. Brandt, Marvin (emeritus) was transferred to the Indiana District 11/01/2009. Brookhart (Lessman), Ashley to Missouri District 8/01/2011. Busseau, Craig to Missouri District 9/01/2010. Conner, Lois to Florida-Georgia District 4/01/2011. Duensing, Don to Southern Illinois District 7/01/2011. Folkmann, Stacy (candidate) was transferred to the Rocky Mountain District 3/01/2010. Golchert, Kent to Missouri District 4/01/2012. Jass, Judith to Missouri District 5/5/2011. Krenzke, Christine to Minnesota South 9/01/2010. Kuehl, Amanda (candidate) was transferred to the North Wisconsin District 5/01/2010. Nack, Judith to Indiana District 7/01/2011. Parris, Franklin to Southern Illinois 8/01/2010. Rudat, Shelia to Oklahoma District 7/15/2011. Vogt, Caren to New Jersey District 3/01/2011. 2015 Convention Section B – Reports Page B-7 COMMISSIONED MINISTERS RESIGNED OR REMOVED Anders, Jennifer resigned from the Roster on 12/01/2010. Beadle, Karen resigned from the Roster on 8/01/2011. Beadle, Michael resigned from the Roster on 8/01/2011. Blakely, Susan was removed from the Roster on 4/15/2010. Bratz, Joseph was removed from the Roster on 1/01/2011. Buth, Shannon resigned from the Roster on 4/15/2010. Dufelmeier, Kara resigned from the Roster on 12/15/2011. Friedrich, Christen was removed from the Roster on 4/15/2010. Holtz, Carla was removed from the Roster on 4/15/2010. Morgan, Amy was removed from the Roster of 8/01/2010. Parker, David was removed from the Roster on 5/01/2010. Petersen, Kristin resigned from the Roster on 11/01/2010. Pratt, Rachel was removed from the Roster on 9/01/2011. Pummil, Louisa resigned from the Roster on 12/01/2009. Rodgers, Susan L. was removed from the Roster on 8/01/2009. Sadoun, Mary was removed from the Roster on 12/02/2009. Turpin, Janice was removed from the Roster on 9/01/2011. Weimer, Emily was removed from the Roster on 8/01/2010. COMMISSIONED MINISTERS CALLED TO GLORY Nitz, Ralph 3/10/2011. Poynter, Rachel 4/28/2010. Sablotny, Gayle 12/03/2010. 2015 Convention Section B – Reports Page B-8 MISSIONS – EVANGELISM – STEWARDSHIP– HUMAN CARE 2015 Report During the last triennial I have served as the Administrative Assistant to the CID President (Rev. Mark Miller) in the areas of Missions, Evangelism, Stewardship and Human Care. I thank God for this wonderful opportunity to serve our Lord and His people! I thank God for the faithful partnership of our District President, all of our CID Staff, and our CID people assisting with this work. May the Lord richly bless our work for Him! MISSIONS Our Lutheran Church Missouri Synod has always been concerned about telling all people the Good News of Jesus Christ. Our Synod has two main purposes: to hold fast for pure doctrine and practice of that doctrine and mission work. Recently I found interesting the words of The Rev. Friedrich Pfotenhauer, former LCMS Synodical President (1911-1935). He said, “Our confessions testify that along with the advancement of understanding the pure doctrine, the mission should be the chief manner of a Synod.” President Pfotenhauer also preached at a Reformation Day/Mission Day Service: “To be sure, when we members of the Lutheran Church consider that the treasure of the Gospel, which makes us so rich and happy, should also be brought to others, it should make us willing to do diligent works for the mission. By that mission and through our work, many will be won for the Kingdom of Christ!...May He grant that with renewed zeal, we become participants in the great, blessed work of the mission, so that through our service, many men will be saved, and the kingdom of our Savior be extended!” Most of the 155 congregations of our district share mission dollars with our district (but sadly last year 11 congregations shared no financial support). 30% of these funds go to our synod and our seminaries. Over 50% is used for mission work in our district. A big chunk of the remaining percentage goes for Central Illinois District staff services to our congregations and schools. I have said this before: “Through District and Synod your church can reach out beyond your own church and further Christ’s Kingdom. When your church invests heavily in the work of saving souls the world over, your church gives evidence that they have caught the spirit of Christ.” “Congregations which bring generous offerings for missions are usually spiritually alive. Their vision has widened. Their love for Christ, as well as for others, reflects itself in zeal to build the kingdom also at home. Church history bears testimony that the spiritual health of the church is closely realted to her missionary zeal. This concern will show itself in personal evangelism at home. And where there is a deep concern for the lost at home, that concern will reach out into the world for Christ.” 2015 Convention Section B – Reports Page B-14 My service to Central Illinois District Missions: Oversee and help our existing missions Explore and encourage the beginning of new mission work by congregations, circuits, or the district Assist congregations with mission education and mission presentations Encourage Central Illinois District congregations to support with prayers and their resources our Central Illinois District mission work Lead the Central Illinois District Revitalization Process (two year onsite consultation and assistance for our congregations without cost) The mission dollars your congregation gives to the Central Illinois District, LCMS makes possible all the following: A) NEW CHURCH STARTS 1. Hispanic Outreach, Beardstown (St. John’s Lutheran) 2. Cristo Rey Lutheran Church, East Moline 3. Faith Lutheran Church, Monticello 4. Redeemer Lutheran Church, Peru 5. Our Savior Lutheran Church, St. Joseph B) SPECIAL MISSIONS-Deaf, Prison 6. Christ Lutheran Church for the Deaf, Jacksonville 7. Joy of Jesus Lutheran Church for the Deaf, Peoria/Bloomington 8. Lincoln Correctional Center, Lincoln 9. Logan Correctional Center, Lincoln 10. Pittsfield Work Camp, Pittsfield 11. Western Correctional Center, Mt. Sterling 12. Green County Work Camp, Roodhouse C) CAMPUS MINISTRY 13. University of Illinois, Champaign 14. Eastern Illinois University, Charleston 15. Illinois State University, Normal 16. Western Illinois University, Macomb D) FOREIGN MISSION 17. Evangelical Lutheran Church of Latvia E) THE WORK OF THE LUTHERAN CHURCH MISSOURI SYNOD and her Colleges & Seminaries 2015 Convention Section B – Reports Page B-15 INVESTMENT OF CENTRAL ILLINOIS DISTIRCT MISSION DOLLARS (SUBSIDY) 2013 (Actual) 2014 (Actual) 2015 (Budget) 4,922 1,837 88,858 0 52,424 1,000 81,771 21,042 1,903 93,759 0 52,424 1,000 91,222 37,000 0 95,846 0 35,312 1,000 *98,476 Campus Ministries Champaign, U. of I. Charleston, E.I.U. Macomb, W.I.U. Normal, I.S.U. 115,445 61,000 73,633 96,274 119,904 62,500 76,938 100,766 125,532 65,000 78,910 112,229 Deaf Ministries Jacksonville, Christ; & Joy of Jesus, Bloomington 117,349 **162,179 131,992 19,072 44,537 19,475 45,304 20,692 47,184 41,040 42,476 0 4,500 56 1,000 555,000 30,000 30,000 94,019 557,500 32,500 30,000 98,342 557,500 32,500 30,000 99,900 Mission Stations/Congregations Beardstown, Latino Outreach Buffalo, Risen Savior Lutheran East Moline, Christ the King Lutheran (Cristo Rey) Monticello, Faith Lutheran Church Peru, Redeemer Lutheran Church Princeton, Mission Outreach St. Joseph, Our Savior Lutheran Olney (Closed 2015), received funds from local churches & CID CEF Prison Ministries Lincoln, Lincoln & Logan Correctional Centers Mt. Sterling Correctional Center, Pittsfield Work Camp, Roodhouse, Green County Work Camp, Special Ministries Lincoln, Developmentally Disabled Ministry Foreign Missions Latvia, Evangelical Lutheran Church Also Lutheran Church-Missouri Synod Ft. Wayne & St. Louis Seminary Camp CILCA, CID Student Aid, CID * Our Savior, St. Joseph will reimburse the CID $45,000 in 2015. ** includes $42,000 onetime expense for new driveway, parking, and drainage. Note: In 2014 our CID received a total of $1,937,533 from our congregations for all district work. 2015 Convention Section B – Reports Page B-16 Central Illinois District Mission Property The only indebtedness of the Central Illinois District for our missions are: 1. St. Joseph, Our Savior Lutheran Church, $184,613: church building (as of 2/28/15) 2. Monticello, Faith Lutheran Church, $230,803: church building (as of 2/28/15) Real estate Mission Property our Central Illinois District owns debt free and maintains for our district’s missions are: 1. Buffalo, Risen Savior Lutheran: church building, parsonage 2. East Moline, Christ the King Lutheran: church building (former Deere/Harvester Credit Union), parsonage (in Silvis) 3. Jacksonville, Christ Lutheran Church of the Deaf: church building, fellowship hall 4. Champaign, University Lutheran Church: student center, education wing 5. Normal, Wittenberg Lutheran Center: student center 6. Macomb, St. Timothy Chapel of the Learner: student center EVANGELISM The CID Evangelism Commission from a recent 25 year study of Central Illinois District churches sees a present day culture not friendly to our Savior and His churches! Our churches are experiencing smaller families, areas of declining population, loss of jobs, and graying of the churches. If the congregation focuses its energies and resources only inward and fails to see the mission field around them, loss of attendance and membership is hastened. A zeal and passion for lost souls can encourage our people to tell of the hope they have in them. We need to instill in our people and congregations a real mission mindset. We can identify those around us who don’t have a church; we can pray for them; we can befriend and help them; we can give them a tract and tell them about Jesus, and we can invite them to a worship service or an adult confirmation class! Our churches, pastors, church leadership, and people need a burning passion for lost souls. Our churches have no choice but to actively tell and spread the Good News of Jesus Christ to their communities! My service to Central Illinois District Evangelism is to: Assist churches in planning effective outreach Visit and meet with pastors and evangelism committees to share ideas, resources, and encouragement Be the presenter for Outreach Workshops: “Friendship Witnessing”, “From Prospect to Disciples”, etc. Assist the pastor and board of elders by providing training and workshops to win back our inactive members: “Getting Some of Them Back” 2015 Convention Section B – Reports Page B-17 STEWARDSHIP Christian stewardship begins with the fundamental truth that God is the owner of all things. Christians are stewards (managers, caretakers) of His possessions. Love for Christ through faith in the Gospel is the motivating power for true Christian stewardship. Educational resources containing Bible studies, worship services, devotional material, financial helps, church newsletter/bulletin articles, and program suggestions are purchased annually and distributed to each congregation. The materials are produced by Ron Chewning (LCMS) of Stewardship Advisors, Birmingham, MI. Your 2015 materials are being given to each church at our convention. My service to Central Illinois District in Stewardship: Provide resources for yearly stewardship programs Provide consultations on stewardship to pastors and church committees Provide Stewardship seminars and workshops as requested Develop and update yearly the salary guidelines for the church workers of the district Share financial reports with circuit counselors and congregations HUMAN CARE MINISTRIES We seek to provide information and education that will encourage Lutherans to care for those in need. My service to Central Illinois District in Human Care: Cultivate concern for human care and encourage endeavors to remove and alleviate human suffering (Hunger, Pornography, Abuse, AIDS, Refugees, Pro-life Support, Substance Abuse, etc) Encourage Central Illinois District congregations to respond with help to natural disasters in our district Lutheran Early Response Training (LERT). We have been most active in the last two years in Disaster Response. Over 300 people in the CID have been trained and certified in Lutheran Early Response Training. CONCLUSION I especially want to thank our Central Illinois District people who serve with me on our Mission, Stewardship and Evangelism Commissions. “Well done good and faithful servants!” I could not be more blessed, and the Central Illinois District could not be more blessed with such wonderful Christian helpers and servants. These commission members have a real heart for the Lord and His work! May the Lord continue to give His church and His people the strength and the faithfulness to preach and teach His holy, inspired Word so we can tell others that He died and rose for all. “He died for all, that those who live, should not live for themselves, but for Him who died for them and rose again!” (2 Cor. 5:15) Thank you and God’s richest blessings to you! Rev. Joel Cluver, Administrative Assistant to the President for Missions, Evangelism, Stewardship, and Human Care 2015 Convention Section B – Reports Page B-18 MR. GLENN W. GOERES ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT TO THE PRESIDENT – EDUCATION AND CONGREGATIONAL LIFE Christian education is a serious undertaking in the Central Illinois District. Certainly, most of our congregations operate various volunteer education programs including Sunday School, VBS, midweek schools, confirmation instruction, Bible classes for various ages, and the like. In addition to these, fifty-three congregations are involved in the operation of twenty-three fulltime elementary schools and three high schools. Finally, another thirty early childhood programs – preschools and child care centers – are operated by CID congregations. Sharing Christ with the children is and should be a high priority. STATISTICS Some general statistics of interest include: Schools: Early Childhood Centers (E.C.C.) Elementary + E.C.C. Elementary Only Elementary + High School High School Total Educational Agencies Enrollment: 2015 30 19 3 1 2 55 Early Childhood Centers Elementary High School 1286 3592 336 Total Children Served 5214 The following pages provide more specific statistics for education programs. The statistics are presented in two categories – 1) Early Childhood Programs and 2) Elementary and High Schools. In addition to enrollment numbers, statistics will provide information related to: Percentage of LCMS rostered teachers and lay teachers. Financial support information. Outreach Benefits: the number of children and adults that entered the LCMS through baptism and or confirmation as a result of first coming into contact with the congregation through enrollment in a Lutheran education program. 2015 Convention Section B – Reports Page B-19 C.I.D. SC HOOL S TATIS TICS EARLY CHIL DHOOD PROGRAMS Early Childhood Programs: 30 Note: these statistics are not totally valid due to the fact that 9 (30%) of the Early Childhood programs did not submit an annual report. Number of early childhood teachers on the roster of LCMS certified teachers. LCMS Trained Lay are those teachers who have Concordia system degrees but are not on roster. LCMS=3 Lay=161 LCMS trained Lay=1 Number of Students Enrolled 917 (From those Schools Reporting) 1286 when estimates of non-reporting schools are included. Financial Support for School The financial support is divided into three categories: Congregational Support Tuition and Fees 3rd Source Funding (gifts, fund drives, bequests, endowment funds, etc.) The range of each category: Congregational Support Tuition/Fees 3rd Source Funding 2015 Convention High------------Low 67% 0% 100% 33% 44% 0% Section B – Reports Page B-20 C.I.D. SC HOOL S TATIS TICS ELEME NT ARY AND HIGH S CHOOLS Elementary Schools 23 Elementary + High School 1 High Schools 2 Number of school teachers on the roster of LCMS certified teachers. LCMS Trained Lay are those teachers who have Concordia system degrees but are not on roster, mostly due to IRS tax penalties for both spouses serving as commissioned ministers. Elementary and High School LCMS=130 Lay=157 Lay are LCMS trained= 27 Early Childhood Teachers in ECC programs connected with Elementary Schools LCMS= 3 Lay=26 Lay is LCMS trained=1 Elementary and High School Statistics, continued Average Tuition/fees (of schools submitting reports) Member of supporting congregation: $2078 [high = $5900, low = $0] Community enrollees: $3417 [high = $6900, low = $0] Financial Support for School The financial support is divided into three categories: Congregational Support Tuition and Fees 3rd Source Funding (gifts, fund drives, bequests, endowment funds, etc.) 2015 Convention Section B – Reports Page B-21 The range of each category: Congregational Support Tuition/Fees 3rd Source Funding High------------Low 98% 10% 79% 0% 60% 0% Outreach New Members of CID - LCMS Congregations through Lutheran School Enrollment (Since 2012 convention) Baptized Children: 151 (Since 2012 convention) Baptized/Confirmed Adults: 208 Gains and Losses A new preschool was opened at Trinity – El Paso in 2012. No schools have closed since 2012. Teacher Colloquy Program Many educators in our Synod’s schools have become synodically trained, professional church workers through the Lutheran Teacher Colloquy Program. This program, offered via CUEnet – colloquy classes provided online, provides the theology coursework component normally received by education graduates of the Concordia schools. Participants must have a BA degree, be members of LCMS congregations, and be currently teaching in an LCMS school. Our District provides some financial assistance to teachers enrolling in this colloquy program. Teachers who have participated in colloquy classes speak very highly of the instruction they received and the benefits it brought to their classroom teaching. In the last three years five teachers have completed colloquy programs and are now recognized as Ministers of Religion - Commissioned. National Lutheran School Accreditation National Lutheran School Accreditation is an ongoing process of self-evaluation, improvement, and recognition based on national standards for child care centers, early childhood, elementary, and secondary schools. Thirteen schools in CID are currently accredited by this process of school improvement. Altamont Interparish St. John, Mattoon Trinity, Bloomington St. Paul, Milford St. John, Buckley Bethel, Morton St. John, Champaign Concordia, Peoria Danville Lutheran Our Savior’s, Springfield LSA, Decatur Trinity, Springfield Zion, Lincoln 2015 Convention Section B – Reports Page B-22 Our NLSA process has been identified as far more thorough than the recognition process used in Illinois. In addition, the regional program known as AdvanceED also accepts the NLSA process should a school also desire regional accreditation. Lutheran Educator Conferences In the fall of 2012 both the CID and SID teachers continued the triennial schedule for official conferences as they met in joint conference in Decatur, IL. In the fall of the 20113-2014 school year our teachers participated in the LEA national convocation in Milwaukee, WI. CID and SID then met in a joint conferences in the fall of 2014 in Collinsville, IL with another joint conference scheduled for October 2015 in Decatur, IL. These joint conferences have proven to provide a wide base of support and participation that enhanced the quality and variety of the conference experiences for the participants. Directors of Christian Education (DCE) The Administrative Assistant – Education oversees the personnel issues of the DCE’s of our district. At present, sixteen DCE’s serve in CID congregations. In addition to these, two to three DCE interns have been assigned each year to congregations in the district. The DCE’s serve in a wide variety of ministry roles including youth and family ministries. Congregations are continuing to expand the scope of ministry provided by these church workers. Several of our district’s congregations have accepted DCE interns who then go on to complete their degrees. Additional titles have surfaced to describe the variety of ministries offered by these professional church workers: Director of Outreach and Director of Family Ministry are just two examples. Family Ministry is growing in popularity as congregations seek to address the lifelong spiritual needs of members. CID congregations also benefit from the service of several other church workers serving in specialized ministries: camp ministry, parish nurse, and campus ministry just to name a few. Parish Education The Parish Education Committee of our district concentrates on providing guidance to the congregational education ministries of such agencies as Sunday School, Vacation Bible School, and midweek school. The Parish Education Committee has sponsored events such as training workshops for Sunday School teachers and superintendents as well as assisting with the District Bible Bowl. The Parish Education Committee also has sponsored an annual recognition of the Volunteer Teacher of the Year. Individuals receiving this recognition since our last convention include Barbara Maske, Zion – Mt. Pulaski, Candace Debowey, Immanuel – Springfield, and Bill Anderson, St. John – Green Valley. The 2015 edition of the CID Bible Bowl was held Sunday, April 12 at Trinity Lutheran School – Springfield. The topic for this year’s Youth Bible Bowl was “Judges and Ruth.” Although only six teams participated this year, the competition was lively and in several instances hard fought. Participating teams included: St. John – Quincy, Trinity – Coal Valley, Our Redeemer – Bloomington, St. Matthew – Milan, Immanuel – Altamont, and Our Redeemer – Quincy. First Place honors went to the team from Trinity – Coal Valley, second Place went to St. Matthew – Milan’s team, and Third Place honors were earned by Our Redeemer – Bloomington. 2015 Convention Section B – Reports Page B-23 Christian education must continue to serve as a major tool by which our congregations actively prepare for future generations of Lutheran believers, professional church workers, and congregation members. We ask that our Lord fill all our congregations and their members with the zeal to support these ministries through their prayers, their time, their talents, and their treasures. May the Holy Spirit continually guide us through this work of kingdom building. CONGRE GAT IONAL LIFE The number one project for Congregational Life for the past three years has been the Family Friendly Partner Network in Central Illinois District. The Family Friendly Partners Network (FFPN)... ...trains and equips clusters of congregations to become intentional Christian marriage and family forming centers. These churches desired to invest resources in a three year process to become partners with Christian marriages and homes to deliberately pass on faith in Jesus Christ to the next generation. They received training and coaching through a series of workshops. Congregations both with and without a parochial school and/or preschool have been active network participants. FFPN networks currently exist in other districts: Michigan, Arizona, Nebraska, Ohio, Indiana, South Wisconsin, Missouri, Oklahoma, and networks in Singapore and Malaysia. Member congregations are committed themselves to three years of training events led by Ben Freudenberg, current director of the Family Life Program at Concordia University – Ann Arbor, former church DCE for 30+ years as a minister to youth and the Christian home, and author of “The Family Friendly Church.” FFPN member congregations in the CID include: Trinity – Auburn Trinity - Bloomington St. Paul – Lexington Faith – Lincoln Our Savior’s – Springfield Trinity - Springfield Over the course of three years, partner church leaders gathered nine times to be trained to lead a process to move their congregations toward a Family Friendly Church. They explored topics of marriage, parent education, human sexuality, step parenting, and training parents in faith formation. In the end, a church will include in its mission, program and structure a church-wide passion, knowledge, and resource base for building strong Christian homes and marriages. ___________________ The Youth Committee of the CID is an outstanding group of individuals that are self-starters ready to serve the youth of the district. Their organization and energy level is refreshing and commendable. The committee is busy planning for events in 2015 and 2016 including: • Early planning is already under way for the junior high lock-in event scheduled for November, 2015. 2015 Convention Section B – Reports Page B-24 • • Council of LYF Representatives (CLYFR) training workshop in March was attended by committee members Carissa Hippen and Matt Winkelman. They will now take up the task of sharing this training within our district. National Lutheran Youth Workers Conference will be held to prepare district representatives for the 2016 National Youth Gathering in San Antonio. Teacher Carmen Yagow and DCE Matt Winkelman are our CID reps and coordinators. ___________________ Congregational Lay Leader Training workshops are available to circuits throughout our district. These workshops can provide some basic information for lay leaders as they serve on committees and boards in their congregations. Contact Glenn Goeres at the District office for information and scheduling. ______________________ Demographic studies continue to be available to CID congregations through our district membership with MissionInsite. Respectfully submitted, Glenn W. Goeres Administrative Assistant – Education and Congregational Life 2015 Convention Section B – Reports Page B-25 CIRCUIT COUNSELOR REPORTS Altamont Circuit – Rev. William Emrick, Circuit Visitor “God … created all things, so that through the church the manifold wisdom of God might now be made known” – Ephesians 3:9b-10a The Lord of the Church continues to bless the congregations of the Altamont Circuit through the manifold changes of life. The pastors of the circuit continue to meet regularly at Winkel on the second Tuesday of each month from September through May, except in months that coincide with a pastors’ conference. In November and May, our circuit meets jointly with the Shelby and Effingham Circuits. Currently, the pastors of the Altamont Circuit are studying Saint Paul’s Letter to the Galatians together. In addition, weekly, interested pastors meet at Saint Peter to study one of the upcoming Gospel Lessons in the three year series in the original Greek. The Holy Spirit continues to be active calling pastors and other church workers when and where He wills. Changes in the office of the Holy Ministry in the circuit include: In 2013, Rev. Bruce Milash of Immanuel, Shobonier (Augsburg) accepted a call to a congregation outside of our area. On June 30, 2013, Rev. Josh Frazee was installed in Immanuel as sole pastor. Rev. Doug Meyer of Salem Lutheran Church served Immanuel ably during the vacancy. In 2014, Rev. Peter Kolb of Holy Cross, Vandalia, accepted the Lord’s call through the synodical Board of Missions to serve as a missionary in South Asia. Subsequently, Rev. Jerry Bagwell, Assistant Pastor at Holy Cross, is serving the vacancy. At Eastertide, 2014, Rev. Michael Kloepping of Zion Lutheran Church, Altamont, retired from the active ministry. Zion remains in vacancy being served by Rev. Clayton Vail of Bethlehem. On July 6, 2014, Rev. Bernard Ross was installed as Assistant Pastor in Immanuel Lutheran Church, Altamont, following the retirement of Mr. Vern Spilker, DCE. Among other rostered workers: DCE Vern Spilker retired as Family Life Minister in Immanuel, Altamont, on July 31, 2014. In June of 2014, Mrs. Gail Traub retired from her post as Principal of A.L.I.S. (Altamont Lutheran Interparish School.) In Spring of 2013, Mr. Mark Ploss of Saint Peter Lutheran School accepted a call to one of our sister schools in Springfield, Illinois. In the summer of 2013, Mr. Dan Yagow accepted the Lord’s call to serve as Principal and Teacher in Saint Peter Lutheran School and was installed. Ms. Robinette Flach accepted the Lord’s call to serve as Principal in A.L.I.S. in October of 2014. She will be installed in July or August of 2015. “Through [Jesus Christ] then let us continually offer up tÒa sacrifice of praise to God, that is, uÒthe fruit of lips that acknowledge his name.” – Hebrews 13:15 Bloomington North Circuit - Rev. Joe Burns, Circuit Visitor The Bloomington Circuit North is pleased to report that currently all of our congregations are being served by called pastors. We give great thanks to God for this being the current state because there has been significant movement in our circuit since the last district convention. During the last triennium, the Bloomington Circuit North has mourned their loss as God has called His faithful servant, Rev. Ken Mangold into eternal glory. This occurred in September, 2014. As we mourn, we also rejoice in Ken's victory and his certain presence before our Triune God in paradise. We also have bid farewell to Rev. Bryan Hopfensperger who was called to serve St. Paul Lutheran Church in Eden Valley Minnesota. Rev. Scott Adle was called to serve Good Shepherd Lutheran Church in Collinsville, Illinois. Rev. Jerry Koch retired from his call at St. Paul Lutheran Church, Chenoa and now resides in Fort Wayne, Indiana. Rev. Ken Mangold first was called to serve St. John's Lutheran Church, Washburn, Illinois and Trinity 2015 Convention Section B – Reports Page B-26 Lutheran Church, LaRose, Illinois after Rev Hopfensperger left and served there until he was called into glory. Rev. Mark Gruden was called by these congregations shortly after Rev. Mangold's death and continues to serve there. Rev. Michael Peters was called to serve St. John's Lutheran Church in Secor, Illinois after Rev. Adle left for his call in Collinsville. Rev. Peters was ordained and installed in July of 2014 at St. John's and continues to serve there. Rev. Jeremy Latzke has just recently joined us as he has accepted the call to serve St. Paul's Lutheran Church, Chenoa, Illinois following the retirement of Rev. Jerry Koch. Rev. Latzke was installed in March, 2015. Our circuit continues to meet the second Tuesday of each month to worship together, study the upcoming Gospel text, study the confessions and converse about various topics chosen by one of the brothers. We give great thanks to God for providing us with this opportunity for fellowship each month. Bloomington South Circuit – Rev. David Bergelin, Circuit Visitor The following congregations make up the Bloomington South Circuit: Good Shepherd, Bloomington; Our Redeemer, Bloomington; Trinity, Bloomington; Zion, Danvers; St. Paul, Lexington; Good Shepherd, Minier, and Christ, Normal. In addition, we are privileged to count Wittenberg Lutheran Center, Normal, as one of the ministries located in our circuit. Within our area, we are also blessed to have Trinity Lutheran School, Bloomington; Shining Lights Preschool (Christ, Normal); and St. Paul Lutheran Preschool, Lexington. Luther Oaks, a Lutheran Life Community, is also located in our area. Many of the pastors in our circuit are blessed to lead Sunday afternoon Lutheran vespers services at Luther Oaks. We are thankful for the wisdom that the emeriti pastors in our circuit, Rev. Marvin Matzke and Rev, August Lubkeman, continue share with those of us who are actively serving in our parishes. Since our last CID convention, our circuit has bid farewell to Rev. Jonathan Manor (Our Redeemer, Bloomington) who was called to serve St. Paul Lutheran Church in New Hartford, CT. After a short vacancy, the Divine Call was issued to Rev. Peter Weeks. He was installed as pastor on 8/10/2014. Rev. Chris Nitzel (Trinity, Bloomington) has accepted a call to serve as sole pastor at St. Paul Lutheran Church, Hartley, Iowa. Rev. Allen Steinbeck (Trinity, Bloomington) was led by the Lord to return to California and work in the family business. We pray God’s blessings upon him in this new endeavor. Rev. Billy Newell has accepted the Divine Call to serve as Associate Pastor at Trinity. He will be installed at a date yet to be determined. Finally, Christy Malinowski has accepted the Divine Call to serve as DCE at Trinity, Bloomington. Champaign Circuit – Rev. Mark Elliott, Circuit Visitor “This is how one should regard us, as servant of Christ and stewards of the mysteries of God… But we have this treasure in jars of clay, to show that the surpassing power belongs to God and not to us.” [1 Cor. 4:1; 2 Cor. 4:7] The Champaign Pastoral Circuit (#4) meets the second Tuesday of every month (excluding summers and those months when we have a District Pastors’ Conference. During the summer we often meet jointly with the Mattoon Circuit. This past summer they hosted a joint circuit event at Immanuel Broadlands where they invited Dr. Andrew Steinmann of Concordia University, Chicago to present a scholarly study to us from his commentary on the book of Ezekiel. During our regular meetings, our Champaign Circuit is edified by an in-depth Greek study of an upcoming Gospel pericope led by a brother pastor, along with an ongoing study of “Walther’s Church & Ministry” as translated and edited by our synodical president, Rev. Matthew Harrison, also led by various pastors. We continue to make strides to be more Confessional in our practice, more collegial in our pastoral relationships with one another, and more consistent in our attendance at these Circuit Meetings. Whatever time is left over we often discuss cases of casuistry in our congregations which brings us closer, and gives opportunity for us to show more Christian concern for what is going on in the personal and professional lives of our brother pastors. The Champaign Circuit consists of the following congregations since the restructuring of circuits in the past Triennium, and the following are the pastors serving our congregations at the time of writing this report. 2015 Convention Section B – Reports Page B-27 Champaign, Friendship Joy Champaign, St. John Champaign, University Danville, Immanuel Danville, Trinity Monticello, Faith Osman, Immanuel St. Joseph, Our Savior Thomasboro, Peace Urbana, Trinity Rev. Brian Pape Rev. Mark Elliott (Senior) Rev. Jeff Caithamer (Associate) Rev. Rick Milas Rev. Mike Heidle Rev. Kent Tibben Rev. Kurtis Bueltmann Vacant (served by Rev. Jeff McPike) Rev. Scott Weiler Vacant (served by Rev. Larry Bell) Rev. Terry Strom (Senior) Rev. Shawn Boylan (Associate) Within our area, we are also blessed to have 2 Lutheran elementary schools and 4 Lutheran preschools in our Circuit: Danville Lutheran School and Preschool, Immanuel and Trinity, Danville; St. John Lutheran School and Little Lamb Preschool, St. John, Champaign. The other preschools are The Little Disciples of Peace, Thomasboro, and Wee Disciples, Trinity, Urbana. Pastors that have left our Circuit since the last C.I.D. district convention in July 2012: Rev. Dan Fienen retired after serving Immanuel, Danville, until May 2012. He has however since left our circuit to accept a call to Grace Lutheran, Baldwin, Michigan, where he was installed in April 2014. Rev. Michael Ruhlig accepted a call to Faith Lutheran, Graham, Texas where he was installed in June 2014, leaving Trinity, Danville. Rev. Phillip Callahan was removed from Peace, Thomasboro in November 2014 but remains a pastor in good standing as he awaits another call. Pastors that have entered our Circuit since the last C.I.D. district convention in July 2012: Rev. Mike Heidle accepted the call to be the sole pastor of Immanuel Lutheran, Danville and was installed in August 2012. Rev. Shawn Boylan accepted the call to be the associate pastor of Trinity Lutheran, Urbana and was installed in September 2014. Rev. Keffie Dean was a pastor in the Northern Illinois District who resigned his call and moved into our area in 2013. He has been preaching part-time at Immanuel, Osman since 2014 and in other congregations within our circuit. He is very interested in receiving a call. Rev. Bob Frank has also moved into our area recently after becoming a new chaplain at Presence Hospital in Champaign/Urbana beginning October 2014. We are blest to have Rev. Bob Frank serving at Presence and also Rev. Jeff McPike who has long been serving faithfully as a chaplain at Carle Hospital in Champaign/Urbana. We also have 3 pastors who are “emeritus” status who are very much part of our Circuit and remain active in our Circuit Meetings. Rev. Don Ehlers, a member and former pastor of St. John, Champaign Rev. Lynn Podol, a member of Peace, Thomasboro and former pastor of Immanuel, Broadlands Rev. Bob Rediehs, a member of Immanuel Danville and former associate pastor there Other events, news, and celebrations within our circuit The Rev. Mark Elliott was re-elected as the Champaign Circuit Visitor at a recent Champaign Circuit Forum in February 2015. St. John, Champaign is hosting the L.W.M.L. District Convention in 2014, and Rev. Jeff Caithamer has recently become the L.W.M.L. zone counselor. Immanuel dedicated their new Pipe Organ in June 2014. Friendship, Champaign invited President Miller to participate in their special “Shine – Be the Joy” Sunday in March 2013 celebrating their recent renovation and additions to their sanctuary. President Miller also preached for Peace, Thomasboro and commissioned Rev. Phillip Callahan into the Military Chaplaincy (Army) in 2013. We also 2015 Convention Section B – Reports Page B-28 invited Rev. President Mark Miller to speak at one of our Circuit gatherings in 2013 and he led us in a very biblically insightful study using the Greek text. Decatur Circuit – Rev. John Laux, Circuit Visitor We continue to meet monthly for our circuit conference. The pastors and vicars of our congregations lead us in a study of God’s word for our spiritual edification. We enjoy the mutual encouragement and the consolation of the brothers at these meetings. Since the 2012 CID Convention we have welcomed two new pastors into our circuit. The Rev. Adam Ray is the Associate Pastor at St. John’s Lutheran Church in Decatur and the Rev. Doug Bender is the Associate Pastor at St. Paul’s Lutheran Church in Decatur. We are blessed to have these fine young pastors in our Circuit and their congregations are being richly blessed by what God is doing through them. Mount Zion Lutheran Church in Mount Zion is still vacant and being served by a number of our pastors. We pray God’s blessings upon them as they proclaim the gospel to the Mount Zion community. A LERT training event was held in 2013 in our circuit and we found the training to be very helpful and a great blessing as some of our members were able to help the good folks in Washington, IL after the terrible tornado hit in November 2013. We continue to be blessed by God through the Lutheran School Association which is made up of our five LCMS congregations in Decatur. Our K-12 school reaches our members and our community with the Gospel of Jesus Christ. Effingham Circuit – Rev. Gary Fortkamp, Circuit Visitor During the past triennium, the Effingham Circuit has seen some changes in the circuit and Pastoral Office. In October 2010, I was appointed to fulfill the Effingham Circuit Counselor position of Rev. Rollie Meyer who was going to retire in December and moved to Arizona. He was Pastor of St. John’s Lutheran, Louisville. The St. John’s Lutheran, Louisville had a short vacancy. Rev. Ryan Eden was installed on May 6, 2011 as their Pastor. Faith Lutheran, Flora became vacant when Rev. Timothy Hahn accepted a Call. Rev. Richard Krenzke became vacancy Pastor of Faith Lutheran, Flora. Faith Lutheran extended a Call to Rev Allan Kramp who accepted it in January 2012 and was installed in March 2012. Trinity Lutheran, Casey was served by Vacancy Pastor Rev. Richard Krenzke until a Call was accepted by Rev. Michael Kasting who was installed on May 16, 2010 prior to Rev. Rollie Meyer’s retirement. The Effingham and Shelby Circuits are encouraged having a Mission congregation at Olney. This became a reality in the summer of 2013 when Rev. Ryan Eden found a place to meet and began conducting worship services on Saturday evening. This outreach is being supported by the LCMS churches in the Effingham-Shelby Circuits. On April 30, 2013, I retired from serving as vacancy pastor of Grace Lutheran, Dieterich, IL [37 years] and St. Paul’s Lutheran, Sigel, IL [11 years]. Rev. Jason Rensner of Faith Lutheran, Shumway is now serving as vacancy pastor of Grace Lutheran and Rev. Glenn Stroschein [retired pastor who lives at Sullivan] is serving as vacancy pastor of St. Paul’s Lutheran, Sigel. On July 6, 2013, Rev. Rollie Meyer former pastor of St. John Lutheran, Louisville was laid to rest in St. John’s Cemetery. Rev. Meyer was retired and lived in Arizona. On November 1, 2013, Rev. Richard Bremer, pastor of Trinity Lutheran, Stewardson, was laid to rest in Stewardson Cemetery. I filled in a Pastor of Trinity Lutheran from November 1, 2013 to June 8, 2014. On Sunday June 8, Rev. David Weaver was installed as pastor of Trinity Lutheran, Stewardson. In November of 2014, Rev. Kevin Wyckoff accepted the Call to Buckley, IL and Our Redeemer Lutheran Robinson and Our Savior Lutheran, Lawrenceville became vacant. Rev. Michael Kasting served Our Redeemer Lutheran, Robinson until the end of February 2015. Rev. Allen Kramp is serving Our Savior Lutheran, Lawrenceville at this present time. 2015 Convention Section B – Reports Page B-29 During my tenure as Circuit Visitor, I have conducted worship services at the following churches in the Effingham Circuit: Faith Lutheran, Flora; Trinity Lutheran, Casey; Good Shepherd Lutheran, Newton; St. Paul Lutheran, Wheeler; St. John Lutheran, Dieterich; and Grace Lutheran, Dieterich, St. John’s Lutheran, Louisville, Our Redeemer Lutheran, Robinson, and Our Savior’s Lutheran, Lawrenceville The Effingham Circuit continues to enjoy the blessings of our Lord and Savior as the congregation’s work to carry out His will. We meet monthly with the pastors of the Shelby Circuit and enjoy the mutual support and encouragement that this arrangement offers. I keep in contact with all the pastors and their immediate family by calling them on their birthday and anniversary. To God be the glory! Great things He hath done. Iroquois Circuit – Rev. Benjamin Meyer, Circuit Visitor The Iroquois Circuit presently has vacancies at the following congregations: -‐ St. John’s in Ash Grove (Onarga) -‐ St. Peter’s in Thawville -‐ Immanuel Lutheran Church, Cissna Park (Idaville) (not actively calling) Pastoral Changes: Rev. Kevin Wendorf (St. John’s, Ash Grove) to St. Paul’s in Havana, IL Rev. Daniel Olson to St. Paul in Luxemburg, WI Rev. Michael Poynter resigned his call to St. Peter (Thawville) and Trinity (Onarga) and has moved to Cincinnati Rev. Kevin Wyckoff accepted a call to St. John’s in Buckley from Our Redeemer in Robinson, IL and Our Savior’s in Lawrenceville, IL In our circuit we are blessed to have two pre-K through 8th grade schools (St. John’s, Buckley and St. Paul’s, Woodworth) and a pre-school (Calvary, Watseka). We have also been blessed by the recent addition of Nicole Wittmann, who is serving at Calvary in Watseka as a DCO. I took over as Circuit Visitor late with only a few months left in the triennium after Rev. Michael Poynter resigned his call. He lost his wife in a car accident about 3 years ago and has remarried, but the weight of that loss and the challenges that ministry brings caused him to decide that he needed to step back for a time in order to be able to do faithful ministry again in the future. We are in the unfortunate situation of seeing one of our congregations close its doors. Trinity in Onarga, after Rev. Poynter resigned, decided that it was time for them to close. They are presently working through the process of contacting all of their members in order to transfer their memberships so that they can receive continued pastoral care. They are also working through the process of dissolving assets. We celebrated the Lutheran Reformation each of the three years with a circuit Reformation service. This year we were blessed to have Rev. Tim Puls as our guest preacher. We look forward to working together as a circuit to provide marriage enrichment events, discipleship and evangelism training, and other events. Jacksonville Circuit – Rev. Joseph Eckman, Circuit Visitor Weekly, on Tuesdays, most pastors of the circuit join together for an exegetical study of the pericopes using the text. We meet monthly on the first Monday for a circuit-wide meeting with a worship service with Holy Communion, a Greek/Hebrew exegetical study and a doctrinal study. Different congregations host each month. Circuit pastors prepare and lead the studies. There is a Lutheran Confessions Study each month that meets at St. John's, Bath. Pastors from several circuits attend. There is a Circuit Missions Council that meet every other month. St. John's Beardstown has begun ministry to the Latino population through this endeavor. St. John's, Rushville has developed a distribution plan for “Worship for Shut-Ins” DVDs to 20 area nursing homes, retirement centers and hospitals. Annually, we have a Bible Institute in the winter, a joint retreat with the Quincy Circuit at Camp CILCA in May with a guest speaker who is usually a professor from one of our seminaries or colleges and a Circuit Reformation Service. 2015 Convention Section B – Reports Page B-30 Additionally, circuit pastors jointly support and report on the ministries of the LWML, LLL, Lutherans for Life, Camp Cilca, and The Wittenberg Project.. Salem Lutheran Church in Jacksonville dedicated a new sanctuary this year. Immanuel Lutheran Church in Arenzville closed the end of 2013. Michael Bahr, Pastor resigned his call to the Tri-Parish of Christ, Winchester / Immanuel, Arenzville /and Trinity, Bluffs. Andrew Dierks, Pastor was ordained and installed at Trinity, Arenzville Richard Harre, Pastor is serving the dual parish of Christ, Winchester and Trinity, Bluffs. Lincoln Circuit – Rev. Wesley Reimnitz, Circuit Visitor Greetings in Christ our Risen Lord and Savior! We continue to thank the Lord for continued blessings and growth. Our worship attendance during the past three years has stabilized, and has grown in many of our churches, and we look for continued growth for the future. In one of our counties it was reported that there was a decline in general population, but the Lord blessed the church with increases in baptisms, confirmations, and worship attendance. We continue with activity with the LWML and LLL. We look forward to the challenges and joys of the next triennium proclaiming the peace of Christ to our community as Christ has commissioned us to do. We are looking at reaching out and growing together in our circuit churches. One way we reach out is through our Reformation Service each year around the last Sunday in October. We have a joint circuit choir and special guest speaker. After the worship service we have ½ hour seminar by our guest speaker; followed by a joint circuit potluck supper. Our next Reformation Service will be October 25, 2015, 2:00 PM, Zion Lutheran Church, Lincoln. Our featured speaker will be Rev. Dr. Thomas Baker (www.lawandgospel101.com). He is the host of Law and Gospel on KFUO AM (www.kfuoam.org) Monday through Friday, 9:30 AM. Following the service he will discuss Law/Gospel topics in our everyday life in the fellowship hall. Churches of our circuit: Zion Lutheran, Lincoln Zion Lutheran Church & School, Mt. Pulaski, IL Christ, Delavan/St. Luke, San Jose Faith, Lincoln Christ, Clinton and Zion Chestnut Christ Lutheran, Mason City Zion Lutheran, New Holland St. Paul Lutheran, Manito Trinity Lutheran, Manito St. Paul Lutheran Havana May the Lord continue to bless the congregations of the Lincoln Circuit and the CID to be his faithful witness during the coming years. Mattoon Circuit – Rev. Ryan Fehrmann, Circuit Visitor Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ, In the last Triennium the Mattoon Circuit has been blessed to continue in the regular ongoing ministry of Word and Sacrament to strengthen of the faith of the saints in the circuit and its congregations. Our Lord Jesus Christ has been faithful each of these three years and remains so to this day. His mercies are indeed new each morning. On behalf of the Circuit I hear give thanks and praise for the goodness of the Triune God to us poor miserable sinners and submit this witness to such goodness as follows. 2015 Convention Section B – Reports Page B-31 Immanuel Broadlands remained under the steady watch of its pastor, Rev. John Sharp, as they played host to DCE/DCO interims both to help prepare church workers and to continue their own search for such a partner in ministry. The congregation has also been blessed with new renovations to their youth rooms and fellowship halls a testament to the congregation’s love for each other and their children, an encouragement for us to walk in such love. Immanuel Tuscola has been blessed with the faithful ministry of Rev. Jason Braaten. A deepening appreciation for our Lord and His Sacraments has led Immanuel over the last triennium to begin a process of seeking a new organ to adorn the worship of her Lord. Immanuel has also stood out as a bastion of faithful, confessional, Lutheranism in the Tuscola community calling all sinners to repentance and faith, a call to us all to stand firm in our confession and faith in our own communities. St. Paul’s of Sadorus continues its ministry of Word and Sacrament through Rev. Bill Gauger’s vigilance. St. Paul has been blessed with a vigorous worship life through choral and musical participation including an annual Living Christmas Tree choir cantata. Rev. Gauger, with the congregation’s eager support, has the led the youth of the congregation annual servant events around the country. A reminder for us all to love our neighbors as our Lord commanded in deed as well as Word. St. Paul’s of rural Mattoon (Dorans) suffered the loss of its shepherd Rev. David Bessinger at the turning of the last triennium. God remained faithful, indeed he is faithful for he cannot deny Himself, in filling the Pastoral Office with the Rev. Paul Hopkins in November of 2012. Pastor Hopkins led the congregation in a renewed zeal to reach out to the lost and marginalized of the area. A testament of this congregation’s heart in matching our Lord’s desire to see all who are weary and heavy laden find rest in Him. May we all have such a desire. St. John’s of urban Mattoon endured a period of many adjustments in the last three years, yet her Lord remained constant in His presence to His children at St. John’s as gathered around their altar throughout the change of seasons outwardly and changes inwardly. Rev. Troy Countryman, after a faithful four years as Associate Pastor of St. John’s became the Senior Pastor in September of 2012. During that time Pastor Countryman shepherded the congregation through the workings of a new school building and the calling of a new Principal. It was the congregation’s, and her Lord’s joy, to call as Associate Pastor Rev. Adam Jacobson, a then new seminary graduate of Fort Wayne, in October of 2013. As of this writing another new principal has been called for the next school year. Under the guiding of her two Shepherds St. Paul’s continues to look to her unchanging Lord in often changing circumstances, a witness to us all in all too uncertain times. Grace Lutheran of Paris has been blessed with a deepening faithfulness, the gift of stability, under the careful hand of Rev. Ryan Fehrmann. The congregation celebrated its innumerable blessings in our Lord in 2014 as it marked 75 years of congregational life. An eagerness for the Gospel continues to characterize Grace as it reaches out through its Childcare Center (celebrating 15 years this 2015), well attended Bible Studies, Retirement Village, and consistent gathering to receive God’s gifts each Lord’s Day. This eagerness for the Gospel should remind us to not only broaden our call to the nations but deepen our own lives in Christ. In the last three years infants and adults of all the circuit congregations have received new life in the waters of Holy Baptism, many more have approached our altars in joy for the Bread of Life through confirmation, and we all have been comforted in the midst of illness and death by the hope of the Resurrection through Jesus Christ. As of writing the circuit is planning a fall convocation on marriage to give public testament to its pastors’ and congregations’ unity on this topic. It is a blessed time to be called a child of God in the Mattoon Circuit under our most gracious Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, who lives and reigns with the Father and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever. Peoria Circuit – Rev. Mark Nelson, Circuit Visitor • • • • • • Continued joint meetings with Tazewell Circuit throughout the triennium, during which we studied the books Toxic Charity and the Smalcald Articles. June 2012, 2013, 2014 Trinity, Peoria to hosted its annual Bach Festival. July 2012 Rev. Matthew Synnott installed as Associate Pastor at Trinity, Peoria. July 2012 Principal Paul Thompson was elected to the CID Board of Directors (Commissioned), Rev. Barry Long was elected to the CID Congregational Constitution & District Handbook Committee. September 2012 held Circuit Forum at Redeemer, Peoria. October 2012, 2013, 2014 St. Paul’s, Kewannee hosted its annual Octoberfest gatherings. 2015 Convention Section B – Reports Page B-32 • • • • • • • • • • • January 2013 Rev. Kenneth Serr at Grace, Canton took a call to Wisconsin and Grace, Canton closed as a congregation. March 2013 Mt. Calvary hosted a parenting seminar by Dr. John Rosemond. May 2013 Rev. Aaron Schellhas, Associate Pastor at Christ, Peoria took a call to Woodstock, IL. May 2013 Christ, Peoria hosted an Ongoing Ambassadors for Christ weekend. February 2013 Deaconness Gillian, Mt. Calvary, Peoria took a call to St. Louis Seminary. August 2014 Vicar Kevin Duff was installed at Redeemer, Peoria. September 2014 Jennifer Roettjer was installed as DCE at Redeemer, Peoria. October 2014, Rev. Joe Meyer, Senior Pastor, Redeemer, Peoria took a call to Iowa. December 2014, Rev. Mark J. Nelson, Trinity, Peoria was appointed interim Circuit Visitor. January 2015, Constitution for Mt. Calvary, Peoria approved by CID BOD. February 2015, Rev. Mark J. Nelson, Trinity, Peoria elected as Circuit Visitor at the Circuit Forum. Quincy Circuit – Rev. Marlin Rempfer, Circuit Visitor The Quincy circuit meets on the first Tuesday of the month September through May. We have great participation and discussion. We meet from 9 – 2:15 p.m. We have had a joint circuit meeting with the Northeast Missouri circuit once each year for the past three years. Since 2010 we have shared the May meeting with the Jacksonville circuit and meet at Camp Cilca. Changes since the last convention: In July 2012 Kimmee Powers-Hedding accepted a call as a DCE at the Lutheran Church of St. John. She resigned from that position in 2013. Pastor Steve Hayden accepted a call as Senior Pastor at The Lutheran Church of St. John in December of 2012. In March 2015 Rev. Jeremy Latzke accepted a call to St. Paul Lutheran Church in Chenoa, Il. And left The Lutheran church of St. John. Our circuit workers and highlights follow: Immanuel Lutheran and St. Timothy Student Center in Macomb are served by Pastor Mike Burdick. Since the last convention they hosted the circuit convocation in 2013 with the theme, “My Friend, The Hymnal. In September 2014 they hosted the LWML zone rally. Their campus ministry increased its efforts to reach the international students beginning in the Fall of 2013. One Korean student was baptized and two Korean students were confirmed in February 2015. In July of 2013 the congregation celebrated the 25th anniversary of Pastor Burdick’s ordination. Concordia Lutheran, Warsaw and Messiah Lutheran in Keokuk, Iowa are served by Pastor les Dumer. The Warsaw congregation celebrated their 160th anniversary in 2013. The congregation also celebrated the 50th anniversary of Pastor Dumer’s ordination in 2014 St. Paul Lutheran Church at Bowen is being served by Pastor Larry Troxel. 2015 is the 45th anniversary of his ordination. Pastor Mike Grieve is serving God’s people at Holy Cross in Golden. Pastor Steve Southward is serving God’s people at St. Paul’s Pittsfield. Good Shepherd Lutheran Church in Clayton is being served by Pastor Kirk Cunningham. The congregation celebrated the 20th anniversary of his ordination in 2014. Our Redeemer Lutheran in Quincy is being served by Pastor Martin Eden. Our Redeemer is celebrating its 75th anniversary in 2015. The Lutheran Church of St. John in Quincy is being served by Pastor Steve Hayden. They have experienced great growth in their food pantry since the last convention. In addition they have taken mission trips to Honduras and Guatemala. St. James Lutheran in Quincy is served by Pastors Mike Fieberkorn and Marlin Rempfer. Since the last convention St. James started a Blind Center to reach out to the visually impaired. St James noted the 35th anniversary of Pastor Rempfer’s ordination in 2014. Pastor Lawrence Saeger, retired, also marked the 45th anniversary of his ordination in 2015. Rock Island Circuit – Rev. Gary Wright, Circuit Visitor The Rock Island Circuit boasts an exceptional group of under-shepherds! We are all very much united in our love for pure doctrine and are willing to fight for the sake of the gospel. We are grateful for this God-given unity 2015 Convention Section B – Reports Page B-33 in both doctrine and practice. We continue to give thanks and praise to God as we seek to uphold and encourage each other in our service. Since the last convention, we have been pleased to welcome one new pastor into our circuit. In November 2014, the Rev. Leonard Astrowski of Fairgrove, Michigan began his ministry to the saints at Immanuel, Rock Island replacing Rev. Stephen Gallo who has retired and relocated to Texas. We are grateful for the services of Rev. Paul Weber who provides pulpit supply from time to time and is serving both the Iowa National Guard and the East Moline Correctional Center as chaplain. Along with another pastor, Rev. Cecil Murdock, who recently retired from his parish in Stover, Missouri, these men are able to fill in for the pastor who, on occasion, must be away on a Sunday. Two of our congregations (St. John, East Moline and Holy Cross, Moline) continue to participate in the vicarage program and we have seen some exceptional vicars over the years. The pastor at St. John, East Moline, besides supervising a vicar, serves the community as a chaplain, helping the East Moline Police Department when officers are in need of pastoral care as well as helping in those situations in which a chaplain is needed to provide spiritual care to victims of crime or disaster. St. John has hosted a L.E.R.T. training workshop to provide certification for those willing to be called on to serve in an emergency. They operate a food pantry for the community that serves over 100 families each month. Holy Cross, Moline also participates in the vicarage program and their pastor, Rev. Dr. Wilfred Karsten and the members of the congregation support Rev. Roger James, missionary to Sri Lanka, through LCMS “Together in Mission.” Pastor Karsten regularly visits Sri Lanka conducting short-term theological seminars. Holy Cross assists with mission to Sri Lanka by providing scholarships for theological students, aid to pastors, teachers, and children, and assisting with special projects. At Christmas, Holy Cross provides gift bags for more than 500 children in Sri Lanka. They continue also as a supporter of Issues, Etc. as an “IE300” congregation. Two of our congregations (Trinity, Coal Valley and St. Matthew, Milan have participated in the congregational revitalization process under the direction of Rev. Joel Cluver in which assessments were made of these congregations’ strengths as well as areas of needed improvement, and both have received suggestions on how to move forward in service to their communities. St. Matthew, Milan reaches out into their community as the founding congregation of the Milan Food Pantry and by hosting a home schooling group in the community each week. Trinity Coal Valley continues a longstanding ministry to a local nursing home (Hope Creek Care Center in East Moline) They have provided L.E.R.T. training to their members and others in the circuit in preparation for emergency situations. Trinity is also focusing on increasing Bible study attendance among their membership. At the time of the last convention, the members of St. John (Edford Twp.) Geneseo were just taking possession of their new building, which replaced the one destroyed by fire in March 2009. They continue to prosper in their new facilities and are preparing to call a DCE intern in the near future. Also at the time of the last convention, Rev. Stephen Mueller was beginning his service as 16th pastor of Concordia, Geneseo. Last year, Concordia celebrated her 150th year of God's Grace. They hosted special services with former vicars and pastors returning to preach, and on Sunday, July 6th, 2014, they had a day filled with anniversary festivities and a service with District President Miller preaching. Concordia has been helping the local food pantry with picking up and delivering food from the cities to their local pantry. They also support Missionary Rev. Dan Johnson in Siberia and the Baltics. Our circuit is also the home of Iglisia Luterana Cristo Rey, (Christ the King Lutheran Church). Cristo Rey has been faithfully served by Rev. Pablo Dominguez since 2003. Thanks to the blessing of God, the hard work of Rev. Dominguez, the financial backing of our Central Illinois District, and a solid and faithful gathering of about 13 Hispanic families, the people of Cristo Rey are rejoicing to learn and share God’s Good News. They expect to build a gymnasium in the very near future, and are helping with a Latino ministry in Beardstown, Illinois. Rev. Dominguez is reaching out with the Gospel via both radio and television on a weekly basis. They reach out to the Hispanic community with Word and Sacrament Ministry, a Food Pantry, ESL classes, and in a variety of other ways. God blessing can be clearly seen as this mission continues to serve the Lord of the Church. Rev. Dominguez also serves as a chaplain at Genesis Hospital, Illini Campus. One pastor in our circuit, Rev. Mark Eddy, serves the Central Illinois District as a member of the Congregational Constitutions and District Handbook Committee and coordinates our annual Central Illinois District Bible Bowl for our young people. His congregation, Zion, Taylor Ridge, had the joy of recently celebrating the 2015 Convention Section B – Reports Page B-34 160th Anniversary of their congregation’s founding and the 100th Anniversary of their current sanctuary. The members of Zion, Taylor Ridge also provide services at a satellite worship site in nearby Aledo, Illinois. The “Other Zion” —Zion, East Moline (Hampton Bluff) —is working to encourage family devotions and prayer among her members and redoubling their efforts to connect her members to one of three weekly Bible studies offered there. They are seeking to be more intentional in their outreach to the community and follow up of visitors in the Divine service. Zion is a regular supporter of Issues, Etc. as one of the “IE300” congregations. Zion also supports Lutheran Military Veteran’s & Family Ministries as they reach out to our military personnel, the Siberian Lutheran Mission Society which encourages and supports the important work of Lutherans and the Siberian Evangelical Lutheran Church (SELC), the Christian Family Care Center in Rock Island for homeless men and abused women and children, LCMS World Relief, and also our Local Hispanic Mission (Cristo Rey). The pastor of Zion, Rev. Gary Wright, provides worship at a local retirement center and at a restorative care facility. We, the members of the Rock Island Circuit believe that every child is a special gift from God placed in our hands, for which we are to nurture and care. Therefore, four of our congregations provide early childhood educational opportunities through their preschool and daycare programs: Concordia, Geneseo; Zion, East Moline; Mt. Calvary, Galesburg; and St. John, East Moline. The men of four of our congregations (Zion, East Moline, Beautiful Savior, Colona, Holy Cross, Moline, and Trinity, Coal Valley) are involved in a Brothers of John the Steadfast study group. They meet monthly for breakfast, study, and discussion at a local restaurant. The women of our circuit are also very active in LWML on both circuit and district levels. The Youth of the circuit attend Higher Things conferences, and participate in Ongoing Ambassadors for Christ weekends as we look for ways to do youth ministry jointly. The pastors of the circuit meet monthly for study, brotherly discussion, and casuistry. We have been focusing our efforts on helping each other improve our preaching skills. We also get together socially at least twice a year (usually a dinner for pastors and wives in the winter, and a family picnic in the summer). We host an annual preaching workshop for pastors over several districts. Over the last three years, we have been pleased to host Dr. Arthur Just from the Fort Wane seminary, Rev. Todd Wilkin, host of Issues, Etc., and Rev. Steven Anderson, pastor of Immanuel, Grand Mound, Iowa (and author of two books on preaching). Each year, several of the pastors participate in a Lenten pulpit exchange and a Good Friday Tre Ore service which rotates from congregation to congregation. As we draw closer to the quincentennial of the Lutheran Reformation, the congregations of our Rock Island Circuit will be looking for way to celebrate jointly this historic occasion in which God used His servant, Dr. Martin Luther to restore the Gospel to His Church. We rejoice in our common confession! Despite the hard work of wise and strong pastors, and dedicated laity, the Rock Island Circuit has not been without her challenges. Many of our congregations struggle with declining numbers; the devil is hard at work sowing discontent and division from within; and a culture which is becoming increasingly hostile to Christianity seeks to marginalize our confession, nevertheless, our Lord promises, “I will build my church and the gates of hell will not prevail against it.” Thus, we seek only to be faithful, and trust His promises. In the cross we find the essence of our calling. The vertical dimension reminds us that we are to help people be reconciled to God. The horizontal reminds us that we are to help people be reconciled to one another. While this report highlights a wide variety of service provided by our congregations, we truly see our central focus as ministering to God’s people in Gospel and Sacrament! May God continue to bless our Rock Island Circuit, our Central Illinois District, and our beloved Synod. It has been this Circuit Visitor’s honor and privilege to serve the people of this circuit for the past seven and a half years. Shelby Circuit – Rev. Glenn Strohschein, Circuit Visitor The following congregations comprise the Shelby Circuit: St. Paul’s Lutheran, Pana; Holy Cross Lutheran, Shelbyville; Faith Lutheran, Shumway; St. Paul Lutheran, Sigel; Trinity Lutheran, Stewardson; Grace Lutheran, Strasburg; St. Paul’s Lutheran, Strasburg; and Faith Lutheran, Sullivan. The pastors of the Shelby Circuit meet with the pastor of the Effingham Circuit on a monthly basis (except June & July). In the Spring and the Fall the Shelby pastors meet with the pastors of the Altamont and Effingham 2015 Convention Section B – Reports Page B-35 Circuits at which time a guest speaker is invited to present the topic. We enjoy the wonderful fellowship we have at these meetings. On October 28, 2013 our Lord called home the soul of the Rev. Richard Bremer, pastor of Trinity, Stewardson and the Shelby Circuit Visitor. Pastor Bremer’s funeral service was held on November 2, 2013. It was then that President Miller asked me to fulfill the remainder of Pastor Bremer’s term as Circuit Visitor. After sufficient time of mourning the congregation extended a call to the Rev. David Weaver of the Nebraska District. The Holy Spirit led Pastor Weaver to accept the call and he was installed as pastor of Trinity, Stewardson on June 5, 2014. On June 18, 2014 our Lord called to be with Him the soul of the Rev. David Frey, Emeritus, who was a member of St. Paul, Sigel. Pastor Frey’s funeral service was on June 23, 2014. Pastor Frey was very active in Lutherans For Life in the Effingham area. The congregations of the Shelby Circuit continue to be blessed with faithful pastors who bring the precious Word of God to members from the pulpit and in Bible classes and administer the Sacraments according the teachings of God’s Word and our Lutheran Confessions. Springfield East Circuit- Rev. Gaylord Spilker, Circuit Visitor Greetings and God’s blessings from Springfield East Circuit! During the past triennium, the Springfield East Circuit had a couple of changes in the circuit and Pastoral Office. Rev. Dr. Thomas Radtke of Trinity, Springfield, retired in May of 2012. Rev. Paul Hemenway who was serving at Good Shepherd, Collinsville, Ill., accepted the call as Senior Pastor at Trinity, and was installed on January 27th, 2013. Good Shepherd, Sherman, issued a call for an additional pastor to Rev Michael Schuermann, from Houston, Texas, and he was installed on Sunday, October 14, 2012. On January 16th, 2014 Pastor Chris Nilges was installed as the new Chaplain at Concordia Village, Springfield. Springfield East and Springfield West Congregations have residents at that facility. The pastors of Springfield East are blest to have the opportunity to meet each Tuesday forenoon with the pastors of Springfield West in weekly exegetical studies of the upcoming periscopes. On the Second Tuesday from Sept-May we conduct our monthly Winkels. Rev. Koschmann is presently serving Holy Trinity as well as Immanuel, Riverton and assisting some at Concordia, Springfield. Springfield East Congregations together with Springfield West Congregations continue to provide funds so that the Lutheran Hour can be broadcast locally. The Lutheran Hour can be heard on radio station WLUJ 89.7 Springfield at 3 P.M. What a wonderful opportunity to have God’s Word broadcast in the Springfield area. It has truly been a joy and a blessing to serve as circuit visitor to Springfield East Congregations. Springfield West Circuit – Rev. Clarence Rogers II, Circuit Visitor Greetings and God’s blessings to you from the Springfield West Circuit. During the past triennium, there have been several changes in the congregations and Pastoral Offices of the Springfield West Circuit. Rev. Dr. Wayne Hoffman of Our Saviors, Springfield, retired June 30, 2012 after serving Our Saviors for 18 years. Pastor Hoffman served as an active minister in the LC-MS for 37 years. Rev. Daniel Eggold was called and installed as senior pastor at Our Saviors, Springfield in June of 2012 and has subsequently received and accepted a call to Concordia Seminary, St. Louis, where he serves in the Admissions Office. (The congregation is in the process of calling a senior pastor at the time of this writing.) Rev. Joshua Traxel was called from Concordia Seminary, St. Louis to Our Saviors, Springfield. He was ordained and installed as associate pastor on July 14, 2013. Rev. Robert Barth retired from St John’s, New Berlin September 30, 2013. He served as pastor at New Berlin for 29 years, and as an LC-MS pastor for over 41 years. Rev. David Benning, who was serving as associate pastor at Immanuel Lutheran, Brookfield, WI was called to St. Johns, New Berlin as sole pastor and was installed August 10, 2014. Rev. Richard Harre retired as pastor of Trinity Lutheran, Auburn on April 30, 2013 after serving the congregation for 42 years. Pastor Harre served as an active minister in the LC-MS for 47 years. Rev. Martin Kaufmann was called from Pilgrim Lutheran, Houston, TX and installed as pastor to Trinity, Auburn July 28, 2013. Rev. Jonathan Vierkant who was called as the first chaplain to Concordia Village, Springfield in October 2015 Convention Section B – Reports Page B-36 2011 and accepted a call to the Northern Illinois District in 2013. Rev. Chris Nilges was then called to serve as chaplain to Concordia Village and was installed on January 16, 2014. The congregations of the Springfield West Circuit, together with Springfield East Congregations, provide funds for the broadcast of the Lutheran Hour in the greater Springfield area on radio station WLUJ 89.7 on Sundays at 3 P.M. It has been a blessing and privilege to serve as Circuit Visitor to Springfield West Congregations these past six years. May our gracious Lord continue to bless and prosper the congregations of the Springfield West Circuit and Central Illinois. Tazewell Circuit – Rev. Thomas Heren, Circuit Visitor The Tazewell and Peoria Circuits continue to meet monthly sharing in worship, study and fellowship. There are currently no vacancies in the Tazewell Circuit. The following changes have occurred in the last triennium: Leaving Circuit: • Rev. Zach Hoffman, St. Peters East Peoria, accepted a call to Gainesville, GA in Oct. 2014. • Rev. Thomas Wendt, St. John’s Green Valley, resigned his call July 2013. New to Circuit: • Rev. Dan Bishop to St. John’s, Pekin in April 2013. • Rev. Chris Sansom to St. John’s Green Valley in October 2014. Other: • Rev. Glenn Niemann, St. John’s, Pekin went on disability 2014. St. John’s, Pekin Church underwent significant building renovations during 2014. Bethel, Morton Began building project in June 2014 at school site. Expected completion of new sanctuary, classrooms, and administrative offices is September 2015. St. Peter’s, East Peoria Began a lighthouse tutoring ministry to children in church and community that tutors children on Wednesday and Thursday afternoons. Walking hand in hand with “Hearts and Hope for Uganda” with other LCMS congregations to sponsor children, dig wells and participate in mission trips. Expanded VBS by including meals for the community. St. John’s, Green Valley Added 50 new members (27 through baptism) in 2014. Trinity, Pekin Participating in the CID Congregational Revitalization process in 2015. Our Savior, Washington Served as tornado relief center to aid those affected by the November 2013 tornado with over 12,000 volunteer hours. Many thanks to our LCMS sister congregations for help and support. 2015 Convention Section B – Reports Page B-37 Began extensive building addition and renovation in August 2014. Addition will include 14,000 sq. ft. of classroom, fellowship and office space. Expected completion date is August 2015. CID Congregational Constitutions and District Handbook Committee Report After a thorough search of our records, the Constitutions and Bylaws of the following congregation have been reviewed and approved by the CID Congregational Constitutions and District Handbook Committee since the 2012 District convention: 1) 2) 3) 4) 5) 6) 7) 8) 9) 10) 11) 12) 13) 14) 15) 16) 17) 18) 19) 20) 21) 22) Immanuel, Arenzville St. John, East Moline St. John, Effingham St. Paul, Havana Good Shepherd, Hoopeston Christ Deaf, Jacksonville St. John, Louisville St. John, Mattoon St. Matthew, Milan Our Savior, Milford Holy Cross, Moline St. John, New Berlin Trinity, Pekin Christ, Peoria Mt. Calvary, Peoria St. John, Quincy Good Shepherd, Sherman St. Paul, Sigel Zion, Taylor Ridge Trinity, Taylorville Our Savior, Washington Christ, Winchester November 26, 2013 May 26, 2015 January 27, 2015 September 24, 2013 May 27, 2014 May 26, 2015 January 27, 2015 May 27, 2014 May 26, 2015 September 24, 2013 September 24, 2013 November 26, 2013 September 24, 2013 September 23, 2014 January 27, 2015 September 24, 2013 November 24, 2014 May 26, 2015 May 27, 2014 November 24, 2014 September 23, 2014 November 26, 2013 In Christ's service, Rev. Mark Eddy Chairman of the Congregational Constitutions and District Handbook Committee 2015 Convention Section B – Reports Page B-38 Report of the 2015 Nominations Committee Nominations for District President The procedures for the nomination of the District President (2012 CID Bylaw 2.40a and b) have been followed. 2.40 Nomination for President a. Advance Nominating Ballot: Five months before the regular election each congregation and each pastor holding voting membership in the District shall receive from the Secretary of the District an official nominating ballot on which to nominate a candidate for President. The congregation’s ballot shall be signed by the chairman and secretary of the congregation. Both ballots, duly filled in and signed, must be returned to the Secretary of the District at least eight weeks prior to the convention at which the election will be held. b. Notice of Nomination for President: The Secretary of the District shall notify the five candidates who received the highest number of nominations for the office of President (provided they received at least 5% of the total nominations submitted), but the number of nominating votes shall not be revealed. Such nominees who for good and sufficient reasons will not be able to serve in this particular full-time office shall so inform the Secretary of the District at least five weeks prior to the convention. Should any of the five nominees decline the nomination, the Secretary of the District shall notify the nominee receiving the next highest number of votes (as long as it is at least 5% of the total nominations submitted). Total Nominations Forms received: 81 Minimum number of nominations needed to qualify for the ballot: 4 The top qualifying nominee is: Nominations Received 76 The Rev. Mark A. Miller Other nominations received: Peter Brechbuhl 1, David Bueltmann 2, Donald Pritchard 1, and Kent Tibben 1. Respectfully submitted, The Rev. Rick Milas, CID Secretary Nominations For and Election of the Two Vice-Presidents The procedures for conducting the primary election for the nomination of candidates for the offices of VicePresident (2012 Bylaws 2.41, 2.42, and 2.43) will be followed. 2.42 Nominations for Vice-Presidents A primary election for the nomination of candidates for the office of Vice-President shall be held after the President has been elected. Ballots for the nominations shall be prepared in such manner that each voting delegate shall have opportunity for one nomination for each of the regional Vice-Presidents. 2.43 Election of Vice-Presidents a. The ballot for the election of the Vice-Presidents shall list three candidates for each of the regional VicePresidents. The names of those candidates who received the greater number of votes in the primary election shall be placed on the ballot, even though one or two may have received a majority in the primary election. b. In the regular election each voting delegate shall be entitled to vote for each of the regional VicePresidents. If a candidate in either region receives a majority on the first ballot, such candidate or candidates shall be declared elected. If no candidate receives a majority in one region or in either region, 2015 Convention Section C – Nominations Page C-1 the name of the candidate or candidates receiving the smallest number of votes for his region shall be removed from the next ballot. Another vote shall then be taken. 2.44 Ranking of the Vice-Presidents After the two Vice-Presidents have been elected, another ballot shall be taken to determine their rank. Each voting delegate shall indicate his choice for the office of First Vice-President. The candidate receiving the greater number of votes shall be declared First Vice-President, and the other candidate shall automatically be declared Second Vice-President. Nominations for Other Officers The procedures for conducting the Nominations for Other Officers (Bylaw 2.46a; CEF Bylaw 5.24 A) are not in compliance. We were unable to fill all the allotted positions as provided in the Bylaws. Those deficiencies are noted in the following section listing the nominees, by inserting the words No Candidate in the appropriate places. The procedures for conducting the Nominations for Other Officers (2009 CID Bylaw 2.46 b, c; CEF Bylaw 5.24 B, C) are in compliance. Nominees Secretary – Clergy Michael Mohr Kent Umbarger Assistant Secretary – Clergy Wilfred Karsten James Stuenkel Treasurer - Layman Dale Dirks No Candidate Financial Secretary – Layman Robert Dalton Jim Frazee Board of Directors – Clergy Daniel Bishop Peter Brechbuhl Darrell Debowey Pablo Dominguez Brian Pape Donald Pritchard Bruce Scarbeary No Candidate 2015 Convention Board of Directors - Teachers Scott Brown Nathan Landskroener Paul Thompson Jeffry Shoumaker Board of Directors – Laymen Bill Denham Larry Marxman Matt Putnam Bill Schneider Aaron Schroeder Ray Stuckemeyer No Candidate No Candidate Congregational Constitutions & District Handbook Committee Mark Eddy Barry Long No Candidate No Candidate Lay – Attorney No Candidate Lay – Attorney No Candidate Section C – Nominations Page C-2 Nominations Committee for 2018 District Convention Clergy John Laux Barry Long Clarence Rogers James Wright Synod Nominations Committee for 2016 Clergy Jason Braaten James Hennig David Bueltmann Teachers John Jacob Martha Milas No Candidate No Candidate Laymen Henry Gartner Danny Magelitz Raymond Stuckemeyer Thomas Stuenkel Nominations for Circuit Counselor to be Ratified by District Convention Altamont Bloomington North Bloomington South Champaign Iroquois Decatur Effingham Jacksonville Lincoln 2015 Convention No Candidate Joseph Burns David Bergelin Mark Elliott Benjamin Meyer Melvin Weseloh Allen Kramp David Knuth Wesley Reimnitz Mattoon Peoria Quincy Rock Island Shelby Springfield E. Springfield W. Tazewell Section C – Nominations John Sharp Mark Nelson Michael Burdick Robert Hagen Jason Rensner Samuel Janssen Jeffrey Gross Thomas Heren Page C-3 You will be asked to nominate one pastor from the Eastern Region and one from the Western Region for Vice President. Pastors in each region are listed below. CLERGY ROSTER - CENTRAL ILLINOIS DISTRICT EASTERN REGION ALLEN, David A. ANTOR, Donald BACKHUS, Robert BAGWELL, Jerry BATCHELOR, James BECKER, Richard BECKER, Steven BELL, Larry BENDER, Douglas BENNING, David BLOCH, James BLOMQUIST, Rodney BOYLEN, Shawn BRAATEN, Jason BROWN, Earl BRUER, Robert L. BUELTMANN, David J. BUELTMANN, Keith BUELTMANN, Kurtis CAITHAMER, Jeffrey CLUVER, Joel A. COUNTRYMAN, Troy CRUIKSHANK, Thomas DAMERY, Michael DEBOWEY, Darrell EDEN, Ryan EHLERS, Donald ELLIOTT, Mark R. EMRICK, William FANNING, Allen FEHRMANN, Ryan FORTKAMP, Gary D. FRAZEE, Joshua GALL, Theodore C. GARVE, Donald GAUGER, William GIBBS, Karl GILLET, Stephen P. GROSS, Jeffrey HAHN, Timothy HARRE, Richard HEIDLE, Michael HELMKAMP, E. Wade HEMENWAY, Paul HENNIG, James HOEHLER, David HOLTZ, Alan HOOVER, Kenneth HOPKINS, Paul JACOBSEN, Adam JANSSEN, Samuel KAUFMANN, Martin KLOEPPING, Michael KLUG, Jerry L. 2015 Convention Immanuel, Loda Salem, Salem (Associate) Effingham (EMERITUS) Holy Cross, Vandalia (Assistant) Good Shepherd, Hoopeston Immanuel, Athens St. Paul, Strasburg Thomasboro (EMERITUS) St. Paul, Decatur St. John, New Berlin St. Joseph (EMERITUS) Trinity, Taylorville Trinity, Urbana (Associate) Immanuel, Tuscola St. John, Effingham (Assistant) Concordia, Decatur Buffalo (EMERITUS) Risen Savior, Buffalo Faith, Monticello St. John, Champaign (Associate) Zion, Mt. Pulaski St. John, Mattoon Decatur (EMERITUS) Mt. Calvary, Decatur Immanuel, Springfield St. John’s, Louisville Champaign (EMERITUS) St. John, Champaign St. Peter, St. Peter Shelbyville (EMERITUS) Grace, Paris Dieterich (EMERITUS) Immanuel, Shobonier St. John, Effingham Springfield (EMERITUS) St. Paul, Sadorus Our Savior, Milford St. John, Dieterich Bethlehem, Petersburg Trinity, Cissna Park Auburn (EMERITUS) Immanuel, Danville Holy Cross, Shelbyville Trinity, Springfield Concordia, Springfield St. Paul, Shobonier St. Peter (EMERITUS) Immanuel, Charleston St. Paul, Mattoon St. John, Mattoon (Associate) Good Shepherd, Rochester Trinity, Auburn Altamont (EMERITUS) Paris (EMERITUS) Section C – Nominations Page C-4 CLERGY ROSTER - CENTRAL ILLINOIS DISTRICT EASTERN REGION (continued) KNIPPA, Erich KOSCHMANN, Michael A. KRAMP, Allen KRENZKE, Richard LAUX, John LOVE, Donald MCGHGHY, Paul G. MARTIN, Wayne MEYER, Benjamin MEYER, Douglas E. MILAS, Rick R. MOHR, Michael W. O’BRIEN, Terrance OFFERMANN, Wray A. PAPE, Brian PEREIRA, Keith PETERSON, Ivan PODOLL, Lynn A. POYNTER, Michael J. RADTKE, Thomas G. RAY, Adam REDIEHS, Robert E. RENKEN, Gerald RENSNER, Jason E. ROENFANZ, Troy ROGERS, Clarence ROSS, Bernard SCHNELLE, Aaron SCHUERMANN, Michael SEIDENSTRICKER, Michael SHARP, John SPEERS, David R. SPILKER, Gaylord STROHSCHEIN, Glenn STUCKWISCH, Don STUENKEL, James TRAXEL, Joshua TIBBEN, Kent A. VAIL, Clayton WEAVER, David WEILER, J. Scott WEIS, James WEISE, Russell WESELOH, Melvin WOODWORTH, Harold WRIGHT, James WYCKOFF, J. Kevin 2015 Convention Lawrenceville (EMERITUS) Immanuel, Riverton Faith, Flora Altamont (EMERITUS) Trinity, Decatur Calvary, Watseka Faith, Sullivan Sherman (EMERITUS) St. Paul, Woodworth Salem, Salem University, Champaign Grace, Strasburg St. Paul, Pana St. Paul, Decatur Friendship, Champaign Christ, Waverly Decatur (EMERITUS) Thomasboro (EMERITUS) St. Peter, Thawville Springfield (EMERITUS) St. John, Decatur (Associate) Danville (EMERITUS) Paris (EMERITUS) Faith, Shumway Decatur (LSA) St. John, Chatham Immanuel, Altamont (Associate) Trinity, Springfield (Associate) Good Shepherd, Sherman Good Shepherd, Newton Immanuel, Broadlands St. Paul, Altamont Trinity, Edinburg Sullivan (EMERITUS) Milford (EMERITUS) Good Shepherd, Sherman (Associate) Our Savior, Springfield (Associate) Trinity, Danville Bethlehem, Altamont Trinity, Stewardson Our Savior, St. Joseph Springfield (EMERITUS) St. John, Decatur Decatur (EMERITUS) Auburn (EMERITUSt) Immanuel, Altamont St. John, Buckley Section C – Nominations Page C-5 CLERGY ROSTER - CENTRAL ILLINOIS DISTRICT WESTERN REGION ABATIE, Rodger ANDERSON, Jeffrey ANDERSON, Mark ASTROWSKI, Leonard BARTH, Robert BENSON, Ted BERGELIN, David BENKE, Richard BETTERMANN, Vernon L. BISHOP, Daniel J. BOEHNE, Jonathan BRECHBUHL, Peter R. BRINKMAN, Wayne BUELTMANN, Kevin BURDICK, Michael H. BURNS, Joseph BUSHRE, Christopher CUNNINGHAM, Kirk DOMINGUEZ, Pablo DUMER, Lester DUNLAP, David ECKARDT, Burnell F. ECKHOFF, Karl ECKMAN, Joseph V. EDDY, Mark R. EDEN, Martin EVENSON, Douglas FIEBERKORN, Michael GALLO, Stephen F. GERKE, David GLOCK, Peter M. GOETZ, Lawrence GRIEVE, Michael GRUDEN, Mark HAGEN, Robert E. HAUG, Gene HAYDEN, Steven HEREN, Thomas HUEHN, Jonathan JANY, Lee JENSEN, William JOHNSON, John KARSTEN, Wilfred KESSELMAYER, Darwood KNIEF, Louis KNUTH, David HOFFMAN, Wayne LAKAMP, Bruce LATZKE, Jeremy LESEMANN, Brian A. LIESE, Michael D. LIKENESS, David A. LONG, Barry A. 2015 Convention Trinity, Pekin Bethel, Morton Bethel, Morton (Assistant) Immanuel, Rock Island New Berlin (EMERITUS) Redeemer, Peoria (Associate) St. Paul, Lexington Morton (EMERITUS) E. Peoria (EMERITUS) St. John, Pekin Trinity, El Paso Salem, Jacksonville Morton (EMERITUS) St. John, Green Valley Immanuel, Macomb Our Redeemer, Eureka St. John, Geneseo Good Shepherd, Clayton Christ the King, East Moline Concordia, Warsaw Christ, Clinton St. Paul, Kewanee Christ, Peoria St. John, Rushville Zion, Taylor Ridge Our Redeemer, Quincy St. John’s, Beardstown St. James, Quincy (Associate) Rock Island (EMERITUS) Faith, Kewanee Zion, Wenona Peoria (EMERITUS) Holy Cross, Golden St. John, Washburn Trinity, Coal Valley St. Paul’s, Manito St. John, Quincy Our Savior, Washington Christ, Normal (Associate) Morton (EMERITUS) Wittenberg, Normal Christ, Mason City Holy Cross, Moline Pekin (EMERITUS) Peoria (EMERITUS) Our Redeemer, Jacksonville Springfield (EMERITUS) Pekin (EMERITUS) St. Paul, Chenoa St. John, Bath St. Paul, Brimfield Washington (EMERITUS) Mt. Calvary, Peoria Section C – Nominations Page C-6 CLERGY ROSTER - CENTRAL ILLINOIS DISTRICT WESTERN REGION (continued) LUBKEMAN, August LUECK, Chad D. MATZKE, Marvin MEWS, Kurt MICHEL, Greg MILLER, Mark A. MILLER, Ronald C. MUELLER, Stephen MURDOCK, Cecil NELSON, Mark NEWELL, William OLANDER Charles PETERS, Mark D. PETERS, Michael PHILLIPS, Thomas REIMNITZ, Wesley E. REMPFER, Marlin R. RIEMER, Frederick SAEGER, Lawrence SANSOM, James Christopher SCARBEARY, Bruce W. SCHMIDT, Justin SENTER, John SIMMINGER, K. Michael SMITH, Daniel SOUTHWARD, Stephen STANFORD, Craig S. STRATTMAN, Gene A. STROM, Terry A. SYNOTT, Matthew THOMPSON, Mark TROXEL, Larry D. UMBARGER, Kent A. WAGNER, Ronald WEAVER, Gerry WEEKS, Peter WEGENER, Kenneth WIRSING, Thomas C. WRIGHT, Gary A. ZIMMERMAN, Frank W. 2015 Convention Bloomington (EMERITUS) Good Shepherd, Bloomington Normal (EMERITUS) St. Peter, East Peoria St. Matthew, Milan St. John, Chatham Peoria (EMERITUS) Concordia, Geneseo Hampton (EMERITUS) Trinity, Peoria Trinity, Bloomington (Associate) Zion, New Holland Faith, Lincoln St. John, Secor Christ, Jacksonville St. Paul, Havana St. James, Quincy Jacksonville (EMERITUS) Quincy (EMERITUS) St. John, Green Valley Trinity, Roanoke Christ, Delavan Metamora (EMERITUS) Quincy (EMERITUS) Mt. Calvary, Galesburg St. Paul, Pittsfield Immanuel, Peoria St. Paul, Chapin Trinity, Bloomington (Associate) Trinity, Peoria (Associate) Zion, Lincoln Quincy (EMERITUS) St. John, East Moline Trinity, Roanoke (Assistant) Trinity, Manito Our Redeemer, Bloomington Peoria (EMERITUS) Trinity, Bloomington Zion, East Moline Zion, Danvers Section C – Nominations Page C-7 President Rev. Mark A. Miller, St. John, Chatham C: D: O: * Pastor, Immanuel, Laurel NE/St. Paul, Carroll NE 83-89; First, East Grand Forks MN 89-91; St. John, Pekin, Associate Pastor 91-94, Senior Pastor 94-12 Wayne Zone Pastoral Advisor (NE) LWML 86-89; Crookston Zone Pastoral Advisor (MNN) LLL 89-91; Sec’y/Treas. Wayne Circuit Pastors Conference (NE) 85-89; secretary Nebraska Confessional Lutherans 85-89; Crookston Circuit Counselor (MNN) 91; Sec’y Peoria/Tazewell Joint Circuit Conference 93-96, 99-00; Mission Manual CommitteeChairman 97; CID Floor Committee-Chairman 94, 97; delegate 95, 04, 10 Synodical Conventions; District/Synodical Reconciler 99-12 (synodical training 99, 05, 11); member of LCMS Floor Committee No. 5-Higher Education 95 Synodical Convention; Synodical Doctrinal Review 95-01; CID Nominations Committee secretary 00, advisory member 03, chairman 12; participant Theological Convocations 02 and 05 Scottsdale AZ; CID Mission Commission 94-97, 03-09, chairman 06-09; Evangelism Commission 00-03, 09-12, chairman; CID Congregational Revitalization Team (synodical training Sept. 08) 08-present; First Vice President CID, 00-06; Second Vice President 09-12; Chairman, CID BOD 00-06; Parish Pastor Member CID BOD 06-09; and Board Chaplain, 06-12; member, CID Archives Board 10-present; NLSA Accreditation Team Member Concordia, Peoria 11, CID President 12-present. Laurel NE School District AIDS Policy Comm. 88; Baritone, Peoria Area Civic Chorale 00-12 We have bound ourselves to the Scriptures and the Confessions and we have done so because the inerrant Scriptures have been authored by “men carried along by the Holy Spirit” and the Lutheran Confessions are drawn from those same Scriptures. We believe, teach, and confess what we do because those teachings agree with the Scriptures as pertains to the Gospel and all its doctrines. “Unless the Lord builds the house those who build it labor in vain.” (Ps. 127:1) Therefore we go forward, under any and all circumstances, proclaiming, calling, inviting, exhorting and encouraging this sin-filled world to hear and, by the Spirit of our God, believe the message of Jesus and our forgiveness. The challenge today is to continue to do this in the face of the Church’s declining influence in today’s imploding society. “Let him who has My word speak My Word faithfully.” (Jeremiah 23:28b) I would seek to be an encourager to that end. Secretary (One clergymen to be elected) Rev. Michael Mohr, Grace, Strasburg C D: O: * Pastor, Grace, Strasburg, 98 – present Pastor’s Conference Committee 99-00; Shelby Circuit Counselor 00-06; District Convention Floor Committee member 03; Event Organizer, CID Day at the Ballpark 99-14; Chairman, Central Illinois District Centennial Anniversary Committee 07, Assistant Secretary CID 09-15 Treasurer, Helping Hands Ministerial Alliance 98-present; Youth Director, Thrivent Chapter 03-04; Special Chapter, Chapter 05 –06; President, Thrivent Chapter 07 – present; Member, MAPPING the Future of Strasburg (Community Strategic Planning) 07 – present; Chairman, Public School Strategic Planning Steering committee 08 –09, Chairman, Family Life Center Board of Directors 11-13 I have been blessed to be able to serve the Board of Directors and the current Secretary with assistance in keeping minutes and brief summaries of the BOD’s actions, and would continue to do so in a lead capacity as Secretary. While my primary role as Secretary would be to chronicle the events and actions of the Board, I would also contribute to the discussion and analysis of the group as appropriate as we help guide and direct the people of God in the Central Illinois District to fulfill their vocations as His baptized and redeemed children. Rev. Kent Umbarger, St. John, East Moline C: D: O: * Pastor, Trinity, Roanoke IL, Concordia, Decatur IL CID Board of Directors (2 terms), Congregational Life Commission (5 years), Stewardship Commission (5 years), District Convention Floor Committee (3 times), Church Workers Conference Committee (3 years), Youth Committee (7 years), Family Life Committee (2 years) Youth Gathering Committee (2 years); Synod Convention Delegate (2 times), LCMS Congregational Services Conference (2 years). Roanoke Rotary Club, past President, Confessional Lutheran Forum of Central Illinois Steering Committee, Crisis Intervention Counselor for School District, Advisor to Lutherans for Life chapter, QC Lutheran High School Association: member, Secretary, President, Chaplain Illini Hospital, Chaplain East Moline Police Department, Associate Chaplain Illinois Fraternal Order of Police, International Conference of Police Chaplains. Having served congregations within the Central Illinois District for 28 years, I have a deep appreciation for, and commitment to, its congregations and pastors. My broad experience of service in the District and in other organizations has given me the necessary knowledge and skills to perform the duties of the district Secretary. I believe that the other 2015 Convention Section C – Nominations Page C-8 candidate’s recent experience as assistant Secretary makes him a better choice for this position, but if elected, I would diligently perform the duties of this office. Assistant Secretary (One clergymen to be elected) Rev. Wilfred Karsten, Holy Cross, Moline C: D: O: * Pastor, Zion, Accident, Maryland 84-06 Circuit Visitor, Eastern District (1 term), Bethesda Lutheran Homes and Services Board of Directors (4 terms 93-05), Washington Advisory Group, LCMS Office of Government Information, Washington D.C. (1 term), Concordia Seminary St. Louis Alumni Council (2 terms), LCMS World Mission short-term theological educator to Sri Lanka 9712, delegate to the Synodical Convention 92 and 10, Synodical Floor Committee member 10. Director, Accident Maryland Concert Band 89-06, Member, Hymn Society in the US and Canada, Member, American Guild of Organists. I will strive to emulate the faithful service of those who have gone before me. Rev. James Stuenkel, Good Shepherd, Sherman C: D: O: * Teacher, St. Paul, Brookfield IL 72-78, DCE St. John, East Moline, 78-80. Circuit Visitor, Springfield East Circuit CID, CID Board of Directors, CID Mission Commission, CID Stewardship Commission, CID Revitalization Committee. Springfield Lutheran High School, Chaplain, Board of Education, Board of Directors. Having been a pastor in the Central Illinois District for over 30 years, I am thankful for the District’s past mission endeavors and hope to help continue our District proclaiming Christ crucified and risen in all we do. Treasurer (One laymen to be elected) Dale Dirks Our Savior’s, Springfield Certified Public Accountant, Self-employed Tax Accountant and Grain Farmer C: O: * Immanuel, Athens – Treasurer, Sunday School Superintendent/teacher. Active in local professional organizations. Professional stability and perspective from past experiences. Financial Secretary (One laymen to be elected) Robert Dalton, St. John, New Berlin C: D: O: * Elder, 92-98, 01-15; Vice President, 99-00; Stewardship Comm. Chair, 86-05; Worship Comm. Chair, 06-09; Secretary, Good Shepherd, Rock Falls, IL, 76-77 Lay Delegate to CID Convention several times, Synodical Convention, 92, 04, 07; Lay Representative, LCMS 2008 Theological Convocation; CID Convention Committees, CID Financial Secretary 12-present LLL Zone 12 Vice-President & President 06-09; Village of Loami Trustee 92-99; Curran-Gardner Water District Trustee & Board Chair 03-09; Association of State Dam Society Officials President & Secretary 98-02; FEMA National Dam Safety Review Board 00-01; Research Work Group 97-09 The Lord has given all of us various abilities with which to serve Him and His creation. From my viewpoint, some of the abilities that the Lord has given me include mathematical analysis, organizational skills, management, patience, and a tender heart. If elected, I would use those abilities to assist our District to proclaim Christ. James Frazee, St. John, Beardstown Thrivent Financial Representative, retired C: D: O: Chairman 95-98, Elder 99-04, 10-15 CID Financial Secretary 04-12, CID Finance and Management Committee 12-present Vice President, local Thrivent Chapter 13-15 2015 Convention Section C – Nominations Page C-9 * I have prior knowledge of work required for the position and a willingness to work for the benefit of the Central Illinois District and for the growth of the Lord’s kingdom. Board of Directors (Four Parish Pastors to be elected) Rev. Daniel Bishop, St. John, Pekin C: D: * Pastor, Trinity, Arenzville, 92-13 Circuit Counselor, Jacksonville Circuit 97-03; CID BOD 2004-present; Nominations Committee 2006; 2nd Vice President of CID 06-09, 12-present, CID Evangelism Commission 06-09; CID Mission Commission 09-present, chairman 12-present. I would continue to strive to serve faithfully in keeping with God’s Word and for the well-being of the District as the Lord gives me ability and strength. Rev. Peter Brechbuhl, Salem, Jacksonville C: D: O: * Pastor, Our Redeemer, Quincy 87-93, Salem, Jacksonville 93-present Circuit Counselor 03-09, delegate, Synodical Convention 04; Synod Reconciler 14-present Jacksonville Ministerial Association 04 As the Lord gives me wisdom, so I will be able to provide effective service to our church. Rev. Darrell Debowey, Immanuel, Springfield C: D: O: * Pastor, Immanuel, Springfield, 03-present CID Handbook and Constitution Committee 06-12, chairman 09-12 American Heart Association 91-98, Concordia Village, Springfield, Board of Directors 13-present I would bring experience working with congregational constitutions, expertise in biomedical and human reproductive ethics, over ten years’ experience as a pastor, previous experience in medical research, a Master’s degree in biological sciences, teaching experience on Life Issues at Lutheran High School, Springfield. Rev. Pablo Dominguez, Christo Rey, East Moline C: D: O: Vicar/Pastor (bi-vocational), El Sembrador, Monterrey, Mexico 96-02 CID Missionary at Large 02-present, assists with Hispanic Outreach, Beardstown, 12-present, Vice President of the V National Hispanic Lutheran Convention of the LCMS. volunteer Chaplain Genesis Health Group Silvis IL, Bible Study at East Moline Correctional Center, Saturday Radio broadcast. Rev. Brian Pape, Friendship, Champaign C: D: O: * Pastor, Bethel, Morton 99-05 I offer a fresh perspective… in all honesty, not serving in the past allows for a fresh perspective on any and all issues. I believe that when regarding issues or decisions, keeping in mind the continuing mission of the CID to connect people to Christ Jesus and to one another both, locally and internationally, in an ever-changing world using the plethora of tools at our disposal is paramount. Rev. Donald Pritchard, Zion, Pleasant Plains C: D: O: * St. John, Adair, IA 88-97. Circuit Counselor, Circuit Forum Secretary, area coordinator for "His Love-Our Response", the IDW President's Task Force on Outreach, a member of the IDW Rural Ministry Committee, LWML counselor, LCMS EEOC review committee, member LCMS Doctrinal Review Panel, CID seminary candidate interview committee, four terms on the CID Board of Directors, Evangelism, Parish Education, and Stewardship Commissions, 1st Vice-President of CID and Chairman of the CID Board of Directors 06-12. Volunteer Chaplain with the Illinois State Police, Districts 9 and 20, Area 8 Chaplain, Illinois Fraternal Order of Police. Experience and insight for effective service has afforded me an informed perspective regarding the mission and ministry of the district. It continues to be a privilege to serve. 2015 Convention Section C – Nominations Page C-10 Rev. Bruce Scarbeary, Trinity, Roanoke C: D: O: * Peace, Oelwein, IA 89-95, St. Matthew, Brussels IL 95-98 Bloomington North Circuit Counselor 02-08, Part-Time Agencies subcommittee IDE 91-94, founded Prison Ministry at Pere Marquette Youth Camp 96, LWML Zone Counselor, and started Lutheran Catechetical Society 06 Roanoke Rotary 99-present, president 03-04, Board of Directors for South Calhoun Retirement Center 95-98, Little League Basketball coach, substitute teacher 96-98, Board of Directors Lutheran Child and Family Services SID 96-98 I have now served one term on the Board of Directors. This term has been a learning process. I now have a working knowledge of the required duties and would be happy to continue to serve on this board if elected. (Two parish teachers) Scott Brown, Bethel, Morton C: D: O: * Director of Christian Education, Zion, Mondovi WI 93-97, Lord of Glory, Elk River MN 97-03 MNN Youth Committee 99-02, CID Youth Committee 10-12 Board member and Den Leader, Morton BSA Cub Scout Pack 3081 05-11. Perspective from an experienced DCE currently working in the field. Nathan Landskroener, St. James, Quincy C: D: O: * Teacher, St. Paul, San Diego CA, Grace, Sandy UT, St. John, Bakersfield CA, First Good Shepherd, Las Vegas NV, Principal/Teacher St. James Quincy. CID Board of Directors 14-present Member, Lutheran Education Association I have 33 years of experience with Lutheran schools, 25 years as a teacher and eight as an administrator. Jeffry Shoumaker, Redeemer, Peoria C: Director of Christian Education, Grace, St. Petersburg FL, Grace, DeWitt IA 88-93 D: CID Youth Gathering Committee, FLGA Young Adult Ministry rep, CID Family Life Convocation 10-11 O: Volunteer, East Bluff Neighborhood Association, UKANDU Missions 22 years. * I have interest and experience in Missions. I have interest in and experience in Family Ministry. I have interest and experience in Discipleship and Leadership Development, just completing a 22 month Masters honored educational experience through KINDLE. I have interest and experience in Small Group Ministry including Christ Care and Short Term Small Groups. Paul Thompson, Trinity, Peoria C: D: * Teacher, Coach, Concordia Lutheran High School, Tomball TX 91-99; Metro East Lutheran High School, Edwardsville IL 99-11, Principal, Concordia Lutheran School, Peoria 11-present. CID Board of Directors 12-present Twenty-four years of experience serving Lutheran Schools has provided me with insight regarding the needs and challenges of ministry in today’s society. (Four Laymen to be elected) William Denham, Trinity, Springfield C: D: O: * Retired Board of Deacons 83-84, Chairman 85-88, Congregational Secretary 89-92, Board of Christian Stewardship 95-present, Bible Study Facilitator. Research Economist, State of Illinois 80-02, Volunteer, Dana-Thomas State Historic Site, 82-present, Sales Associate, Museum Store, Lincoln Home National Historical Site 03-13 I think a good grasp of LCMS doctrine and practice, and a commitment to the LCMS definition of stewardship as being a “free and joyous activity” involving “all of life and life’s resources” and that Scripture is the sole norm and rule of doctrine, conduct, and behavior. Finally, I bring a certain breadth of congregational and secular experience. Larry Marxman, Immanuel, Riverton C: D: O: Retired Administrator, State of Illinois, Department of Agriculture, Meat and Poultry Inspections, farmer, part-time Cabinetworks, Marketing Manager Congregational President, 5 terms, first in 1988 and currently, Elder 20 of the last 30 years, Head usher Delegate to District and Synodical Conventions Thrivent, Christian and Sangamon Co VP 06-10, President 14-present, Sangamon Co. Animal Control Board 06-10, Citizens’ Police Academy Sangamon Co 04-10 Sergeant of Arms, Effingham Co Extension Service, president 6 years, 2015 Convention Section C – Nominations Page C-11 * 4-H Leader 18 years, president Leaders Association 9 years, ASCS County Committee 5 years, Illinois Ag Export Committee, People to People Tour Eastern Europe 79, University of Illinois Agronomy Department Advisory Board 4 years, Effingham County Fair Board 12 years A lot of common sense and support with the help of God. Understanding and appreciation of the missions and outreach of the Lutheran Church – Missouri Synod. Matt Putnam, Bethlehem, Altamont C: D: O: * President, Putnam Trucking, Inc. Treasurer 9 years, School Board 6 years, Elder 10 years. CID Board of Directors (06-09, 12-present), CID Evangelism (1 term), CID Finance and Management (2 terms) Prior and present experience on the CID Board of Directors and its committees, business background, prayer, and encouragement. William Schneider, St. Peter, St. Peter C: Retired, Bunge Milling Trustee, Trinity, Danville Aaron Schroeder, Our Savior’s, Springfield C: D: O: * Illinois State Police, ISA 11 Executive Director 12-present, Director of Missions and Evangelism 10-11, Director of Parish Education 99-02, 07-08, Director of Public Relations 03-06, 11, VBS teacher, Sunday school teacher, Youth Board. I would be interested in growing or establishing networking among CID congregation lay members. My contribution would be from my experience at Our Savior’s Ray Stuckemeyer, St. Paul, Altamont C: D: O: * Self-employed, Grain and Livestock Farmer Congregational chairman, trustee, parish board, elder, financial secretary, ALIS School Board chairman. CID Board of Directors 03-09, 12-present; delegate, Synodical Convention. Served the LLL in congregation, zone, district as President and Treasurer, and as International Regional Governor and Vice President 06-10. FSR Board, Farm Bureau delegate, 4H leader One does not seek a position of this importance and I am willing to serve, if elected. Nominations Committee for the 2015 Central Illinois District Convention (Two parish pastors to be elected) Rev. John Laux, Trinity, Decatur C: D: O: * Pastor, Holy Cross, Moline 85-05 CID Education Committee 95-97, CID Pastors Conference Planning Committee 96-98, Rock Island Circuit Visitor 0003, Decatur Circuit Visitor 09-15. Quad Cities Lutherans for Life Pastoral Counselor My entire ministry has been spent in the CID and by God’s grace I would bring that experience to the nominations Committee for our next district convention. Rev. Barry Long, Mt. Calvary, Peoria C: D: * Pastor, St. Timothy (ELCA), Wyoming IL 91-97, Mt. Calvary, Peoria IL 98-present. Peoria Circuit Visitor 06-12, CID Theology Floor Committee Chair 09, Synodical Convention Delegate 10, CID Credentials Floor Committee Chair 12, Congregational Constitutions Committee 12-present I hope that in faith I could effectively serve. Rev. Clarence O. Rogers III, St. John, Chatham C: D: O: * Pastor, St. John, Chatham, 05-15 Pastoral Conference Committee 07-09, Springfield West Circuit Visitor 09-2015. L.E.R.T. trained volunteer 13-present, Weather spotter and member Chatham Emergency Management Agency With God’s help and guidance, I hope to be able to serve on this committee to find willing volunteers to serve on the various boards and committees of the Central Illinois District for the triennium beginning in 2018. 2015 Convention Section C – Nominations Page C-12 Rev. James Wright, Immanuel, Altamont C: D: O: * Zion/St. John, Wisner, NE 88-93, Associate, Pacific Hills, Omaha, NE 93-97, Associate, St. John, Champaign, IL 9709. Champaign Circuit Visitor 05-09, CID Board of Directors 12-15, Specific Pastor Ministry (Chaplaincy) Advisory Board, St. Louis 14-present. Emergency Services Support Team, Champaign, IL 01-09, Fire Chaplain, Altamont, IL 09-present, MABAS 54 Fire Chaplain 10-present. I know many pastors and some of the teachers and laypeople of the CID. (Two teachers to be elected) John Jacob, Bethel, Morton C: D: O: * Principal, St. John, Monroeville IN, Principal, Elder, Trustee, School Board, Church Council Chairman of CID Principals Association, School Accreditation Consultant With knowing several principals and teachers throughout the district, I may be able to provide some insight to secure and place people into appropriate District positions. Martha Milas, University, Champaign C: D: O: * Teacher, St. James, Quincy, Zion, Lincoln, LSA, Decatur, St. John, Champaign. Nominations Committee (2 Xs), Synodical Board for National Missions 10-present. I would do my best to serve the district by attending meetings and working together to nominate those who would best serve the kingdom. (Two laymen to be elected) Henry Gartner, Risen Savior, Buffalo Retired C: D: O: * Elder, Trinity, Springfield Usher/Head Usher Village Trustee, Township Trustee, District Fire Protection President, School Administrator 24 yrs. Friend of the County Award 2014. The Lord will help me to select individuals capable and qualified to perform their assignments in a “God-pleasing” manner. Danny Magelitz, Salem, Jacksonville C: D: O: * Accountant, Federated Business Systems, Springfield, former Lutheran Teacher Christian Education Committee various time in 18 years, Deacon 12-present, Sunday School Teacher 5th and 6th grades, Usher, Choir. Church Extension Board of Trustees 03-15, LLL District Treasurer, LLL Vice President, LLL Zone 7 Secretary/ Treasurer, Camp CILCA Board Treasurer. I believe I could contribute with the grace of God. I am willing. Timothy Stuenkel, Holy Cross, Moline C: D: O: * Supply Management Specialist III, John Deere Treasurer 12-13 Elected village trustee Atkinson IL 89-97, 01-04, Volunteer Firefighter EMT 90-03 Honest and constructive decision making for effective nominations for CID convention. Ray Stuckemeyer, St. Paul, Altamont C: D: O: * Self-employed, Grain and Livestock Farmer Congregational chairman, trustee, parish board, elder, financial secretary, ALIS School Board chairman. CID Board of Directors 03-09, 12-present; delegate, Synodical Convention. Served the LLL in congregation, zone, district as President and Treasurer, and as International Regional Governor and Vice President 06-10. FSR Board, Farm Bureau delegate, 4H leader One does not seek a position of this importance and I am willing to serve, if elected. 2015 Convention Section C – Nominations Page C-13 Congregational Constitution, Bylaws and Handbook Committee (Two clergymen to be elected) Rev. Mark Eddy, Zion, Taylor Ridge C: D: O: * Financial Secretary 76-77, Trinity, Hartford, SD 83-86, Faith, Shumway 86-91, Holy Cross, Golden 91-06, St. Paul, Bowen 00-06 Quincy Circuit Visitor 97-03, CID Board of Directors 06-12, Secretary, SD District Youth Ministry Task Force 84-86, CID Evangelism Commission 88-91, secretary, 09-12, CID Convention Constitutional Matters Committee 94, chair 97, CID Convention Resolution Editorial Committee 00, 03, 06, 09, 12, 15, Delegate, Synodical Convention 98, 01, 04, 07, LLL zone pastoral advisor 85-86, 92-99, 02-06, CID Bible Bowl coordinator 98-present, CID Bylaw Revision Task Force 11-12, CID Congregational Constitution and District Handbook Committee, chairman 12-present. Beecher City IL Schools Community Advisory Committee 89-91, Mercer County Ministerial Association Secretary 12present. Keep doing what I have been doing, with the help of God, guided by God’s Word, by the power of His Spirit. Rev. Barry Long, Mt. Calvary, Peoria C: D: * Pastor, St. Timothy (ELCA), Wyoming IL 91-97, Mt. Calvary, Peoria IL 98-present. Peoria Circuit Visitor 06-12, CID Theology Floor Committee Chair 09, Synodical Convention Delegate 10, CID Credentials Floor Committee Chair 12, Congregational Constitutions Committee 12-present I hope that in faith I could effectively serve. (Lay – Attorney, One to be selected) Tim Kirk, Bethel, Morton Attorney, Hoybrast CID Endowment Fund Board of Trustees (Elect 1 layman & 4 others who may be lay members, clergy or teacher) Rev. Kevin Bueltmann, St. John, Green Valley C: D: O: * DCE Trinity, Kalispell MT 87-91, Christ, Normal IL 91-95, Camp Luther IL 95-02, Camp CILCA 02-08 St. John, Green Valley, Vicar 10-11 Pastor 11-present LCMS Board for Youth Services, MT District Youth Committee, CID Youth Committee (3 Xs). Joint Recruitment Chairman National Outdoors Lutheran Ministry Association, Family Shield Ministries Board of Directors, Camp CILCA Board of Directors, Sangamon/Christian County Thrivent Board. Although I am not actively seeking this position, I am willing to serve if God sees fit. As with all things in my life, I would strive to serve with integrity and faithfulness to God. I strive to creatively and clearly communicate the truth in love so that others may see Jesus and His unconditional love for us all. Kurt Busse, Trinity, Bloomington C: Teacher, St. Peter, Hemlock MI 83-86, St. John, Lombard IL 86-95, Trinity, Bloomington 8th grade and Athletic Director Rev. Martin Eden, Our Redeemer, Quincy C: D: O: * Pastor, Immanuel, Mellon WI 95-04, St. Paul, Pana IL 04-09. Board of Continuing Education North Wisconsin District 97-04, Camp CILCA Board 08-09 I worked for AAL 90-91 and have an interest in economics and finance. Good stewardship is important for the furure of our church. Bob Ervin, Trinity, Danville C: D: O: Area Manager, Aqua Illinois Water, Inc. St. Mark Youngstown OH Properties Trustee 98-99, Redeemer Cape Elizabeth ME Board of Directors and Financial Secretary 95-98, Immanuel Danville Finance Director and Board of Directors 85-87, Danville Lutheran School Board member and Treasurer 89-93, 01-03, call committees for pastor and school teachers. Presence United Medical Center Foundation Danville, Board member and Vice Chair, Executive Committee, Major Gifts Committee 2009-present. YMCA Area Fund Board for Illinois and Indiana member 09-present, Vermillion Advantage (combined Economic Development and Chamber of Commerce) Danville Board Member, Executive 2015 Convention Section C – Nominations Page C-14 * Committee, Chair – Inter-governmental Council 11-present, Danville Family YMCA Board member, past President, Member Finance and Budget Committee 06-12, Delegate National Assembly Y-USA 09, Chair Strong Kids Fund Drive 2 yrs, Danville Public Library Board of Trustees Member and Treasurer 02-08, World Affairs Council of Maine 97-98. I have been actively involved in my church and parochial school. I also have a strong financial background with over 30 years of financial management experience and I currently sit on two other foundation boards. I offer a broad perspective having lived and worked in three different states (IL, OH, ME). In a previous position I managed a trust and investment services department of a community bank. This group managed over $150 million dollars of assets including 12,000 acres of farm ground. My Christian faith and service combined with my professional service seem to be a good fit for this position. Richard McMullen, Concordia, Geneseo Retired Medical and Health Care Management from UnitedHealthcare/John Deere Health, Moline, Professional Management Midwest 77-97 C: D: O: * Concordia, Geneseo: Evangelism, Deacon, Chairman 13-14, President 07-08, St. Paul, Council Bluffs, IA: 81-98, Evangelism, Stewardship, Deacon, President Delegate to Iowa West District Convention, CID Convention 00, 12, Delegate to 81, 01 Synodical Convention, CID Endowment Fund Board 2012-present. Operational Excellence, Quality Process Management, American Society for Quality, UnitedHealthcare Certified Operational Excellence. Management responsibilities: financial administration, economic analysis, retirement planning, tax management, financial planning. More than 40 years evaluating business situations and making recommendations for improvements, financial planning, as well as my business consulting background will enable me to approach events with the CID Endowment Fund with objective and critical thinking. Cheryl Stickel Neal, Trinity, Springfield C: D: O: * Vice President and Senior Wealth Advisor PNC Bank Numerous ad hoc committees 84-87, Board of Christian Education 88-89, Choir, Trinity Foundation Board of Directors 13-present. Adjudication Commission 86-91, Secretary, Foundation for Excellence at Lutheran High School, Trustee and Secretary 86-99, Trustee CID Endowment Fund 12-present. Secretary. Sangamon County Bar Association 96, Member, Illinois State Bar Association, Central Illinois Women’s Bar Association, Christian Legal Society 84-present, President, Sangamon Valley Estate Planning Council, 00-02, Family Service Center Board of Directors 86-89 Undergraduate degree in Accountancy, Juris Doctor 84, 30 + years’ experience in administration of estates and trusts, fiduciary responsibilities. Awareness of fiduciary duties of loyalty, due care, investment standards, not-for profit corporate law. John Rodenburg, Trinity, Springfield Former Managing Director, Federated Funeral Directors C: D: O: * Board of Elders 78-84; Chairman, Board of Elders 80-84; Board of Directors 80-88; Vice-President 85-86; President 87-88, 14-present; Board of Christian Education 90-present; delegate, 1988 CID Convention delegate; Chairman Pastoral Call Committee 07-08,11-12, Co-chair Building Campaign 13. Chairman, Lutheran High School Building Campaign 1982; Board of Directors, Lutheran Retirement Center 90-94; Treasurer, Lutheran Retirement Center 93-94; delegate, Synodical Convention 92; Chair. Finance & Management Commission 94-00; CID Stewardship Commission 00-03; LCMS Theological Conference Phoenix 06; CID Treasurer, 94-00, 03-09; CID Endowment Fund 09-present. Member Illinois Society of CPA’s; Member various state historical societies; Director, Museum of Funeral Customs 07-08; advisory board member, Illinois State Historical Society 11-12, Director, Lutheran Bible Translators 14-present. I have served in the district for several years and am familiar with the District & its goals – spiritual and financial. This background, plus my financial and accounting experience, will help me to serve the District Endowment Fund with the goal of helping to train more future church workers. Rev. Terry Strom, Trinity, Bloomington C: D: O: Treasurer, Peace, Thomasboro 84-90, Pastor, El Buen Pastor McAllen TX 95-97, Trinity, Cissna Park, IL 97-06, Trinity, Urbana 06-15 CID CEF Special Loan Committee, Danville Circuit Visitor 01-06, Champaign Circuit Visitor 08-12, CID Convention Floor Committees, LWML District Pastoral Counselor, LWML Zone Pastoral Counselor, Delegate Synodical Convention 04, 10. Vice President, Prairieview Lutheran Nursing Home Board of Directors 6 years, Treasurer, Cissna Park Library Board 8 years, Chairman, Advisory Council Cissna Park School 4 years, Mentor, Urbana School District 5 years. 2015 Convention Section C – Nominations Page C-15 * I have been a member of the CID all but 2 years of my life when I served the congregation in McAllen TX. I am a second career pastor. My first career was in the accounting field. My last job before entering the ministry was as VP/comptroller for a 150 Million dollar credit union for 7 years. If elected, I will serve with love, wisdom, and faith provided only by the grace of God. Synodical Nominations Committee for 2016 (One clergymen to be elected) Rev. Jason Braaten, Immanuel, Tuscola C: D: O: * Pastor, Immanuel, Tuscola 10-present Advancement Office, Concordia Theological Seminary, Ft. Wayne IN 07-10, Pastors Conference Planning Committee 11-14. Secretary, Tuscola Rotary Club 11-present. I will bring faithfulness to God’s Word and our Lutheran Confessions in any and all decisions. I work well with others and hope to serve our Lord for the good of the Lutheran Church – Missouri Synod. Rev. David Bueltmann, Risen Savior, Buffalo C: D: O: * Pastor, St. James, Quincy 90-97, Immanuel, Athens 84-90, Christ, Clinton 74-78, St. Paul, Brimfield 68-74. Interim Executive Director Camp CILCA 12-present, CID President 95-12, Executive Director Camp CILCA 78-90, CID Vice President 91-95, Circuit Visitor 85-90, CID Youth Committee, CID Evangelism Committee, CID Nominations Committee (2 Xs), CID LWML Counselor, CID Public Relations Committee, Editor CID edition of Lutheran Witness, Executive Director of Ongoing Ambassadors for Christ 85-88, Faculty member Lutheran High School Springfield 79-81. Chairman, Synod President’s Wittenberg Cabinet 12-present, Chairman, Synod Placement Committee for Commissioned Ministers 06-12, Concordia University System Board Member 95-03, Synodical Convention Floor Committees 98, 01, 07, 10, Synodical Nominations Committee 92, 04. Kiwanis Board, DeWitt County Mental Health Board, Director, Senior Citizens Center, Clinton, Brimfield Library Board, Clinton Library Board, Brimfield Volunteer Fire Department, Springfield Lutheran High Soccer Coach, Little League Coach, Youth Football Coach, 4-H Leader. Love of my Lord and Savior and my past experience in district and synod. Rev. James Hennig, Concordia, Springfield C: D: O: * Pastor, Trinity, Rock Springs WY 94-98, St. Peter, Prairietown IL 98-05. WY District Youth Board 97-98, SID Mission Partnership with Lutheran Church South Africa 02-05. I have knowledge of a few people from three different districts where I have served and am willing to call people and speak to them about a position they may be gifted to fill. Central Illinois District 2015 Nominations Committee Mr. Wayne Dietrich, Chairman Mr. Dan Yagow, Secretary Rev. David Speers Rev. James Stuenkel Mr. Steven Schumacher Mr. Clifford Krueger 2015 Convention Section C – Nominations Page C-16 The Nominations Committee Central Illinois District, LC-MS Convention, July 5—7, 2015 FLOOR NOMINATIONS for Elected Positions & Biographical Sketch of Nominee Name: _____________________________ For the Position of: _________________________ Street or P.O. Box____________________________City______________________Zip______ Email Address_____________________________________ I agree to have my name placed in nomination for the position stated above and, if elected, I will serve. Signature: __________________________________________________________ CLERGY, TEACHER, or LAYMEMBER Brief Biographical Sketch of Nominee for Elected Position (Use back side of this form if additional space is needed) Member of Congregation__________________________City____________________________ Place of Employment_____________________________________________________________ Title or Position_________________________________________________________________ Past and/or Present Position/Offices held in your congregation. Dates, if known Past and/or Present Position/Offices held in District/Synod. Dates, if known Past and/or Present Positions/Offices held in city, state, voluntary and professional organizations. Dates, if known What do you believe you could contribute to this position if elected? Note: Following Bylaw requirements, there are no nominations taken from the floor for District President and there is a special process for nominations for Vice Presidents. 2015 Convention Section C – Nominations Page C-17 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 32 33 34 35 36 37 38 39 40 41 42 43 44 45 46 RESOLUTIONS – FLOOR COMMITTEE Resolution 15-01-01 To Commend Deaconess Linda Schaefer upon Her Retirement Re: Overture 15-01-01 WHEREAS, Deaconess Linda Schaefer has worked faithfully for 44 years (the longest ever for any District staff) for the Central Illinois District; and WHEREAS, She retired last August 2014; therefore be it Resolved, That we say to Deaconess Linda Schaefer, “Well done, good and faithful servant” (Matt 25:21); and be it further Resolved, That the Central Illinois District in convention thank and commend her for her faithful years of work by directing the District President to present her a special gift of thanks; and be it finally Resolved, That this convention give thanks to God for this faithful servant of the Lord and praise Him by rising and singing: Praise God, from whom all blessings flow; Praise Him, all creatures here below; Praise Him above, ye heavenly host: Praise Father, Son, and Holy Ghost. Amen. Resolution 15-01-02 To Encourage Congregations to Reach the Unchurched and Unsaved Re: Overture 15-01-03 WHEREAS, God desires that all be saved and come to the knowledge of the truth (1 Timothy 2:4); and WHEREAS, Our Lord has given to all His children the opportunity and responsibility to spread the Gospel, declaring the praises of Him who has called us out of darkness into His marvelous light (1 Peter 2:9); and WHEREAS, Unchurched and unsaved people abound in the communities of the Central Illinois District; therefore be it Resolved, That the congregations of the CID be encouraged 1) to establish and publicize a program for Adult Instruction Classes on a regular basis, 2012 Convention Section D – Resolutions Page D-1 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 32 33 34 35 36 37 38 39 40 41 42 43 44 45 46 2) to host Outreach/”Invite a Friend to Church” Sundays, 3) to build and maintain congregational web sites, and 4) to make use of District and Synodical Evangelism Resources. Resolution 15-01-03 To Amend Synod Bylaw 3.9.2.2.3 Concerning the Commission on Constitutional Matters Re: Overture 15-01-04 Resolved, That the Central Illinois District of The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod submit the following overture to the 2016 convention of the Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod. WHEREAS, Bylaw 3.9.2.2.3 in the 2013 Handbook of The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod states: The Commission on Constitutional Matters shall examine the articles of incorporation, bylaws, and policy manuals of every agency of the Synod to ascertain whether they are in harmony with the Constitution, Bylaws, and resolutions of the Synod. (a) Agencies intending to make amendments to articles of incorporation or bylaws shall make such intentions known and receive approval from the commission in advance. (b) The commission shall maintain a file of the articles of incorporation bylaws, and policy manuals of all agencies of the Synod. and WHEREAS, Bylaw 1.2.1 (a) (1) in the 2013 Handbook of The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod states: “Agencies include each board, commission, council, seminary, university, college, district, Concordia Plan Services, and each synodwide corporate entity”; and WHEREAS, Districts amend their articles of incorporation and bylaws in conventions, at which the Synod Commission on Constitutional Matters (CCM) is not present, and therefore the CCM cannot give “approval … in advance” for any changes in wording of articles of incorporation or bylaws which might be made through amendments from the floor at such conventions, and WHEREAS, The parliamentarian at the 2007 convention of the Synod ruled that, according to Synod’s bylaws, amendments from the floor could not be debated unless they had first been examined by the CCM, in effect allowing the CCM to kill any amendments simply by failing to examine them, and WHEREAS, By such a reading, Bylaw 3.9.2.2.3 would rule out all amendments from the floor of any district convention, thus robbing the districts of the insights of the delegates who are not on floor committees, even prohibiting districts from voting on their own bylaws, if their floor committees failed 2012 Convention Section D – Resolutions Page D-2 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 32 33 34 35 36 37 38 39 40 41 42 43 44 45 46 to provide the CCM with advance copies of their proposed changes, or if the CCM for any reason fails to approve them before the convention; therefore be it Resolved, That Synod Bylaw 3.9.2.2.3 be amended to read as follows: The Commission on Constitutional Matters shall examine the articles of incorporation, bylaws, and policy manuals of every agency of the Synod to ascertain whether they are in harmony with the Constitution, Bylaws, and resolutions of the Synod. (a) Agencies intending to make amendments to articles of incorporation or bylaws shall make such intentions known and receive approval from submit their proposed amendments to the commission in advance for review. (b) The commission shall examine the proposed wording of all amendments received from these agencies and report their findings to the submitting agency, including suggestions for any corrections which the commission deems to be necessary. (c) After agencies amend their articles of incorporation or bylaws, they shall submit them to the commission for similar review. (d) The commission shall maintain a file of the articles of incorporation bylaws, and policy manuals of all agencies of the Synod. Resolution 15-01-04 To Re-affirm the God-given Form of Marriage Re: Overture 15-01-05 WHEREAS, God instituted marriage as the union of a man and a woman for the procreation of children and mutual help, companionship, and support (Genesis 1:26-28; 2:18 & 21-25); and WHEREAS, The Lord Jesus and His apostle St. Paul re-affirmed God’s intent for marriage, as stated in Matthew 19:4-6 & 9 (see also Mark 10:6-12) and Ephesians 5:28-33; and WHEREAS, The God-given way to procreate children is through the sexual union of a male husband and his female wife, in which the husband releases sperm to fertilize the wife’s egg, making the husband the resultant child’s father and the wife the child’s mother; and WHEREAS, God prohibits all sexual intercourse outside of the marriage of a husband and his own wife (1 Cor. 6:9f; 1 Tim. 1:9-10), with His prohibitions including: adultery with another person’s spouse (Ex. 20:14; Lev. 20:10; Deut. 22:22-23; 1 Cor. 6:9f), incest (Lev. 20:11-12, 14, 17, 19-21), homosexual activity (Lev. 20:13; Rom. 1:26-27; 1 Cor. 6:9f; 1 Tim. 1:9-10), bestiality (Lev. 20:15-16), and prostitution (Lev. 19:29; Deut. 23:17), prescribing the death penalty for many of these offenses (Lev. 20:10-16, see also Rom. 1:32), also prescribing that if an unmarried man and woman have intercourse, they be compelled to marry (Deut. 22:28-29); and WHEREAS, In 2014 A.D. the State of Illinois changed its definition of marriage to include two persons of the same sex; and 2012 Convention Section D – Resolutions Page D-3 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 32 33 34 35 36 37 38 39 40 41 42 43 44 WHEREAS, Homosexual couples cannot fulfill all the responsibilities of marriage, because they cannot conceive children together; and they cannot engage in true sexual intercourse as a husband and his wife become “one flesh;” and WHEREAS, The 2011 A.D. “Illinois Religious Freedom Protection and Civil Union Act” stated: “Nothing in this Act shall interfere with or regulate the religious practice of any religious body.” (Section 15); and WHEREAS, St. Paul taught us: “Let every person subject to the governing authorities. For there is no authority except from God, and those that exist have been instituted by God” (Rom. 13:1), in agreement with our Lord’s testimony to Pontius Pilate, “You would have no authority over me at all unless it had been given you from above” (John 19:11), and St. Peter stated: “We must obey God rather than men” (Acts 5:29); and WHEREAS, Illinois law in this matter “calls evil good,” by honoring actions which God calls capital crimes, and “calls good evil,” by considering those who disagree with this law to be guilty of “discrimination,” in spite of God’s condemnation: “Woe to those who call evil good and good evil, who put darkness for light and light for darkness” (Isaiah 5:20, see also Malachi 2:17); therefore be it Resolved, That the Central Illinois District of the Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod re-affirm all that God’s word says about marriage, sexual activity, and child rearing; and be it further Resolved, That the Central Illinois District of the Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod publicly state that the apostle’s statement: “We must obey God rather than men” (Acts 5:29), applies to all people at all times, not only to Christian pastors in divine services; and be it further Resolved, That the secretary of the Central Illinois District of the Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod be instructed to forward this Resolution to the Governor and legislators of the State of Illinois, and the Presidents of the Northern and Southern Illinois Districts of the Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod; and be it further Resolved, That the members of the Central Illinois District of the Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod be encouraged to contact their representatives and to work for the restoration of the biblically and biologically correct definition of marriage and to oppose any government actions which deny religious freedoms to the residents of this State; and be it finally Resolved, That the members of the Central Illinois District of the Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod be encouraged to pray to our loving and merciful God, 1) that He would move all of His people to “speak the truth in love” (Eph. 4:15) to our neighbors, both explaining the evils of sin and offering the blessings which God provides by grace, 2012 Convention Section D – Resolutions Page D-4 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 32 33 34 35 36 37 38 39 40 41 42 43 44 45 46 2) that for Christ’s sake He would forgive all who repent of their sexual sins, including couples engaging in sexual activity without being married to each other as well as those who commit homosexual acts, and 3) that by His Spirit’s working through His Word, God would empower His people to “lead a sexually pure and decent life in what we say and do, and husband and wife love and honor each other” (Luther’s Small Catechism, sixth commandment), always showing love by fulfilling God’s laws (Rom. 13:8-10), overcoming evil with good (Rom. 12:21), setting good examples for our neighbors of all ages and religions, and thus being agents of God’s blessings to our state, nation, and world. Resolution 15-01-05 To Memorialize the Synod as Regards the Licensed Lay Deacon Re: Overture 15-01-06 WHEREAS, The LC–MS in Convention in 2013 adopted Resolution 4-06A, which directed the following: Resolved, That in faithfulness to God’s Word and Article XIV of the Augsburg Confession regarding the Office of the Holy Ministry, the President of Synod would direct the CTCR to develop resources for use on the congregational, district, and Synod levels concerning this issue; and be it further Resolved, That the President of the Synod, who has the responsibility “to promote and maintain unity of doctrine and practice in all the districts of the Synod” (Constitution, Art. XI B 3), be encouraged to use all means at his disposal to promote study and discussion of this vital issue; and be it further Resolved, That the President of the Synod establish a task force consisting of members from the Commission on Theology and Church Relations, the Council of Presidents, the Praesidium, and seminary faculties to develop a plan anchored in the Word, in consultation with licensed lay deacons and those who supervise and are served by them, to resolve questions about the service of licensed lay deacons serving congregations of The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod with the Word and Sacraments of Christ; and be it finally Resolved, That the plan and its proposed implementation be reported to the Synod one year before the 2016 convention; WHEREAS, The theological basis of Resolution 4-06A remains Article XIV of the Augsburg Confession which states: “Our churches teach that no one should publicly teach in the Church, or administer the Sacraments, without a rightly ordered call”; and Article V of the same which states: “So that we may obtain this faith, the ministry of teaching the Gospel and administering the 2012 Convention Section D – Resolutions Page D-5 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 32 33 34 35 36 37 38 39 40 41 42 43 44 45 Sacraments was instituted. Through the Word and Sacraments, as through instruments, the Holy Spirit is given (John 20:22)”; WHEREAS, The Central Illinois District of the Lutheran Church–Missouri Synod in convention in 2012 passed a resolution “To Require Uniformity of Practice With Regard to Word and Sacrament Ministry” which expressed our regret with the current practice within the LC–MS of “men who are conducting Word and Sacrament ministry without being publicly called to, and placed in, the office of the ministry”; WHEREAS, In that same resolution the Central Illinois District also memorialized the Synod in Convention “to direct the Council of Presidents to develop a plan and lay out procedures: “A) So that all men who are currently engaged in Word and Sacrament ministry without being publicly called to, and placed in, the office of the ministry may either be enrolled in the SMP program or cease from all forms of Word and Sacrament ministry by the end of 2019, and B) So that all current Synod and District tracks, programs, licensing procedures etc. which train men for Word and Sacrament ministry without benefit of being publicly called to, and placed in, the office of the ministry can be phased out in favor of SMP by the end of 2019...”; WHEREAS, The Task Force established by the 2013 Synod in Convention has been doing its work as directed, and based on updates posted to the Convention update webpage dedicated to Resolution 406A (http://www.lcms.org/convention/taskforceupdates/resolution-4-06A) is planning to distribute its report in hard copy and electronically to each member of the Synod; WHEREAS, The task force intends for a Synod-wide discussion of its report to take place prior to the 2016 Synod Convention; and WHEREAS, The Scriptural and Confessional basis of the 2013 Central Illinois District Convention’s resolution has not changed, as the Word of God is unchangeable, “Heaven and earth will pass away, but my words will not pass away” (Luke 21:33); therefore be it Resolved, That the Central Illinois District thank the members of the Resolution 4-06A Task Force for their work in studying the ongoing challenge of men who are conducting Word and Sacrament ministry without being publicly called to, and placed in, the office of the ministry; and be it further Resolved, That the Central Illinois District thank the men currently serving as Licensed Lay Deacons for their service to Christ’s Church for the sake of the Gospel, and that the Chaplain of the convention lead us in prayer that our Lord would lead these men to seek ordination according to His good and gracious will; and be it further Resolved, That the Central Illinois District memorialize the Synod in convention to direct the Council of Presidents to enact the following plan to return the Synod to a faithful practice of her confession: 2012 Convention Section D – Resolutions Page D-6 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 32 33 34 35 36 37 38 39 40 41 42 43 44 45 1. All the Districts of the Synod shall immediately discontinue the licensing of lay deacons (1989 Res. 3-05B). 2. All men currently engaged in Word and Sacrament ministry without being publicly called to, and placed in, the office of the ministry will be enrolled in either a residential program at one of our two seminaries by the end of 2019 or in the Specific Ministry Pastor (SMP) program, or will cease all forms of Word and Sacrament ministry within that same time frame. An extension of the above deadline for those currently licensed can be granted by the appropriate District President in extreme circumstance, upon consultation with and approval of the President of the Synod. 3. All the current Synod and District tracks, programs, licensing procedures and the like which train men for Word and Sacrament ministry without benefit of being publicly called to, and placed in, the office of the ministry will be discontinued as soon as possible, but no later than the end of 2019, in favor of either the residential programs at our two seminaries or the SMP program. 4. The Districts in which men currently serve as Licensed Lay Deacons will ensure that these men be provided reasonable assistance in pursuing ordination or finding an alternative vocation. Resolution 15-01-06 To Publicly Call Rev. Dr. Matthew Becker to Repentance Re: Overture 15-01-08 Overture 15-01-09 WHEREAS, Holy Scripture warns, Matthew 7:15(ESV) Beware of false prophets, who come to you in sheep’s clothing but inwardly are ravenous wolves; and WHEREAS, Holy Scriptures warns, Romans 16:17-18(ESV) I appeal to you, brothers, to watch out for those who cause divisions and create obstacles contrary to the doctrine that you have been taught; avoid them. For such persons do not serve our Lord Christ, but their own appetites, and by smooth talk and flattery they deceive the hearts of the naïve; and WHEREAS, Holy Scripture warns, 2 Timothy 4:3-4(ESV) For the time is coming when people will not endure sound teaching, but having itching ears they will accumulate for themselves teachers to suit their own passions, and will turn away from listening to the truth and wander off into myths; and WHEREAS, Holy Scripture declares, 2 Timothy 3:16-17(ESV) All Scripture is breathed out by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness, that the man of God may be competent, equipped for every good work; and 2012 Convention Section D – Resolutions Page D-7 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 32 33 34 35 36 37 38 39 40 41 42 43 44 45 46 WHEREAS, The CCM has ruled, “While the filing of dissent does not constitute a case for removal, the member is required to teach and practice in accord with Synod’s stated confessional position during the dissent process. If the member fails to honor and uphold the stated confessional position of Synod during the dissent process, the member becomes subject to disciplinary action due both to the violation of the doctrinal position of Synod and the offense against the other members of Synod created by such failure (Constitution Art. XIII 1). In such case it is incumbent upon the ecclesiastical supervisor of the member to exercise disciplinary action against the member who fails to teach and act within Synod’s stated confessional position, whether apart from or during the dissent process (Bylaws 2.14.4; 2.15.4; 2.16.4);” and WHEREAS, Rev. Dr. Matthew Becker has filed dissent yet continues to publicly teach and promote false doctrine including woman’s ordination, having published articles on his own blog, and on Daystar where he published an article titled “A Case for Female Pastors and Theologians” in which he states: “There is no legitimate biblical or dogmatic rationale for why the LCMS should now prohibit women from serving as theologians and pastors in the church.” (http://www.lcms.org/ccm/); and WHEREAS, Rev. Dr. Matthew Becker continues to publicly teach and promote false doctrine including participating while vested in the installation of Charlene Rachuy Cox at Valparaiso (http://thebarebulb.com/2013/06/17/they-will-not-be-convinced/); and WHEREAS, Rev. Dr. Matthew Becker continues to publicly teach and promote false doctrine including acceptance of homosexuality and homosexual marriage, having written on his blog Transverse Markings: One Theologian’s Notes titled “Further Sign of LCMS Times” (http://thedaystarjournal.com/the-scandal-of-the-lcms-mind/); and WHEREAS, Rev. Dr. Matthew Becker continues to publicly teach and promote false doctrine including, promoting a figurative interpretation of Genesis 1 and 2 stating in his post “The Scandal of the LCMS Mind”…”Scientific data about the reality of physical death in the animal and plant kingdoms prior to origin of human beings (e.g., fossils of animals that lived long before the origin of human beings) must lead those who interpret the Bible in light of scientific knowledge to restate the nature of God’s good creation prior to the advent of human sin (e.g., such a good creation must have included the reality of death prior to the existence of human beings) and the character of the historical origin of sin (e.g., the advent of sin is to be traced to the first hominids who disobeyed God’s will but not necessarily to their having eaten from a tree in an actual place called the Garden of Eden several thousand years).” (http://thedaystarjournal.com/the-scandal-of-the-lcms-mind/); and WHEREAS, Rev. Dr. Matthew Becker has stated that he has three goals for the LCMS all of which are contrary to the Scriptures and the positions of Synod: (http://matthewlbecker.blogspot.com/2013/10/what-is-he-trying-to-accomplish.html): 1. to encourage members within the synod to think differently about two issues, namely, (a) the synod’s understanding of Scripture that insists that only qualified men may serve as pastor in the synod; and (b) the synod’s understanding of Scripture that requires one to interpret the creation accounts in Genesis to be literal, historical descriptions of what God did in the not-toodistant past over the course of six actual 24-hr. days (“six-day creationism”); 2012 Convention Section D – Resolutions Page D-8 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 32 33 34 35 36 37 38 39 40 41 42 43 44 45 46 2. to have the synod change its position that restricts the office of pastor only to men; 3. to have the synod reject “creationism” in favor of a more robust doctrine of creation, one that sets forth a theological understanding that better accords with the language and genre of these Genesis texts and that better accords with what people today know to be true and valid about the natural history of our planet; and WHEREAS, President Matt Harrison stated on Witness, Mercy, Life Together blog (http://wmltblog.org/2015/01/regarding-a-recent-decision-of-a-panel-not-to-proceed-withcharges-regarding-a-public-false-teacher-in-the-lcms/ ), “When a public teacher on the roster of Synod can without consequence publicly advocate the ordination of women (even participate vested in the installation of an ELCA clergy person), homosexuality, the errancy of the Bible, the historical-critical method, open communion, communion with the Reformed, evolution, and more, then the public confession of the Synod is meaningless. I am saying that if my Synod does not change its inability to call such a person to repentance and remove such a teacher where there is no repentance, then we are liars and our confession is meaningless. I do not want to belong to such a synod, much less lead it. I have no intention of walking away from my vocation. I shall rather use it and, by the grace of God, use all the energy I have to call this Synod to fidelity to correct this situation;” therefore, be it Resolved, That the Central Illinois District of the LCMS call the Rev. Dr. Matthew Becker to repentance of his false and divisive doctrines and that this be communicated to him by the Central Illinois District President; and let it be further Resolved, That, if, God forbid, the Rev. Dr. Matthew Becker fails to heed this admonition of the Central Illinois District, the Central Illinois District of the LCMS in convention request the LCMS in convention to publicly call him to repent; and be it further Resolved, That the President of the Central Illinois District, on behalf of the Central Illinois District, thank President Matthew Harrison and commend him for his faithful leadership of the Synod, and give him such encouragement; and be it finally Resolved, That the Convention Chaplain lead the Convention in prayer for a godly resolution to these matters. 2012 Convention Section D – Resolutions Page D-9 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 32 33 34 35 36 37 38 39 40 41 42 43 44 45 46 Resolution 15-01-07 To Study the Process for Expulsion of a Member of Synod for the Public Teaching of False Doctrine Re: Overture 15-01-07 Overture 15-01-10 Overture 15-01-11 WHEREAS, Member congregations of the Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod should be able to call any rostered member of Synod with the confidence that they will perform their duties in accord with the Word of God and the Lutheran Confessions; and WHEREAS, Luther writes, “God’s people or holy Christians are recognized by the office of the keys exercised publicly. That is, as Christ decrees in Matthew 18 if a Christian sins, he should be reproved; and if he does not mend his ways, he should be bound in his sin and cast out” (AE 41:153); and WHEREAS, LCMS President Matthew Harrison has made the following statement: When a public teacher on the roster of Synod can without consequence publicly advocate the ordination of women (even participate vested in the installation of an ELCA clergy person), homosexuality, the errancy of the Bible, the historical-critical method, open communion, communion with the Reformed, evolution, and more, then the public confession of the Synod is meaningless. I am saying that if my Synod does not change its inability to call such a person to repentance and remove such a teacher where there is no repentance, then we are liars and our confession is meaningless. I do not want to belong to such a synod, much less lead it. I have no intention of walking away from my vocation. I shall rather use it and, by the grace of God, use all the energy I have to call this Synod to fidelity to correct this situation. (http://wmltblog.org/2015/01/regarding-a-recent-decision-of-a-panelnot-to-proceed-with-charges-regarding-a-public-false-teacher-in-the-lcms); and WHEREAS, Article III.1 – Objectives – of the Constitution of the LCMS says, “The Synod, under Scripture and the Lutheran Confessions, shall conserve and promote the unity of the true faith (Eph 4:3-6; 1 Cor.1:10), work through its official structure toward fellowship with other Christian church bodies, and provide a united defense against schism, sectarianism (Rom 16:17), and heresy; therefore be it Resolved, That the Central Illinois District of the Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod memorialize the 2016 convention of the Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod to direct the President of Synod to appoint a Task Force. This Task Force may be comprised of one professor from each seminary, two district presidents, one parish pastor, one commissioned minister, and three laypersons (at least one of whom may be an attorney) to study this problem; and be it finally Resolved, That the Task Force formed at the 2016 Synodical Convention report back to the 2019 Convention of the LCMS with recommended changes to the dispute resolution procedures that allow for clear biblical and confessional standards to deal in Christian love with those who openly teach contrary to Article II of The Lutheran Church – Missouri Synod’s constitution. 2012 Convention Section D – Resolutions Page D-10 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 32 33 34 35 36 37 38 39 40 41 42 43 44 45 46 47 Resolution 15-01-08 To Request the Commission on Theology and Church Relations to Draft Doctrinal Statements Re: Overture 15-01-12 WHEREAS, There is sharp disagreement within The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod over a number of doctrinal matters; and WHEREAS, The Commission on Theology and Church Relations (CTCR) has the authority to submit Doctrinal Statements (as defined by LCMS Bylaw 1.6.2(b)) “to the Synod in convention for further consideration and possible adoption by majority vote” (LCMS Bylaw 1.6.2 (b) (4)); and WHEREAS, A District Convention may submit a proposal for the development of doctrinal statements to the CTCR (LCMS Bylaw 1.6.2 (b) (1)); therefore be it Resolved, That the Central Illinois District in Convention request the Commission on Theology and Church Relations to develop Doctrinal Statements on the following topics: • The Male-Only Pastorate; • The Six Days of Creation; • The Necessity of a Call and Ordination for the Exercise of the Functions of the Pastoral Office; and be it finally Resolved, That the Central Illinois District in Convention request the Commission on Theology and Church Relations to submit these doctrinal statements to the 2019 convention of The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod for further consideration and possible adoption pursuant to LCMS Bylaw 1.6.2(b)(4)ff. Resolution 15-01-09 To Adopt Revised CID Handbook for 2015 Re: Overture 15-01-13 WHEREAS, The Lutheran Church – Missouri Synod adopted changes to its constitution and bylaws at the 2013 Convention, which is cause for the Central Illinois District to change its Handbook; and WHEREAS, The Commission on Constitutional Matters made other changes and updates to the CID 2012 Handbook; therefore be it Resolved, That the Central Illinois District adopt the following as the CID Handbook for 2015 as it has been revised. 2012 Convention Section D – Resolutions Page D-11 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 CENTRAL ILLINOIS DISTRICT HANDBOOK THE LUTHERAN CHURCH–MISSOURI SYNOD 1850 North Grand Avenue West Springfield, IL Revised August 2012 Revised in accord with CCM suggestions, May 2014 2012 Convention Section D – Resolutions Page D-12 1 2 3 TABLE OF CONTENTS ARTICLES OF INCORPORATION ................................................................................................ iii 4 CONSTITUTION ............................................................................................................................... v 5 BYLAWS ........................................................................................................................................... 1 6 I. MEMBERSHIP ............................................................................................................................... 1 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 II. ADMINISTRATION ..................................................................................................................... 1 A. Officers, Boards, Commissions, Committees ........................................................................ 1 B. The President of the District ................................................................................................. 4 C. The Vice-Presidents of the District ....................................................................................... 5 D. The Secretary of the District ................................................................................................. 6 E. The Treasurer of the District................................................................................................. 6 F. The Financial Secretary of the District.................................................................................. 7 G. The Board of Directors of the District................................................................................... 8 H. Staff ................................................................................................................................... 10 I. Other Committees............................................................................................................... 12 J. Regulations Governing Nominations & Elections............................................................... 13 18 19 20 III. CIRCUIT OFFICIALS................................................................................................................ 17 A. The Circuit Counselors Visitors.......................................................................................... 17 B. The Circuit Lay-Delegate ................................................................................................... 18 21 IV. DISPUTE RESOLUTION ..........................................................................................................19 22 V. EVANGELISM............................................................................................................................ 19 23 VI. CONGREGATIONAL LIFE....................................................................................................... 19 24 VII. EDUCATION SERVICES ........................................................................................................ 20 25 VIII. MISSIONS............................................................................................................................... 21 26 IX. FINANCES................................................................................................................................. 22 27 28 X. STEWARDSHIP.......................................................................................................................... 23 Student Aid ...............................................................................................................................24 29 XI. COMMUNICATION SERVICES............................................................................................... 25 30 31 XII. SPECIAL MINISTRIES............................................................................................................ 26 The Archivist ........................................................................................................................... 26 32 XIII. AMENDMENTS TO BYLAWS ...............................................................................................27 33 2012 Convention Section D – Resolutions Page D-13 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 32 33 34 35 36 37 38 39 40 41 42 43 44 45 ARTICLES OF INCORPORATION ARTICLE I 1. NAME, DURATION, REGISTERED OFFICE AND AGENT The name of the corporation shall be: The Central Illinois District of The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod, a not-for-profit corporation. 2. 3. 4. The period of duration of the corporation is perpetual. The address of the registered office of the corporation is 1850 N. Grand Ave. West, Springfield, Illinois 62702-1626 The registered agent of the corporation is the Attorney of the Central Illinois District. ARTICLE II CONFESSIONS AND OBJECTIVES The objectives of this corporation shall be to unite in a corporate body for religious, educational, and benevolent purposes, the members of The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod residing within the bounds of the Central Illinois District, as now constituted, who accept the Scriptures of the Old and New Testaments as the written Word of God and the only rule and norm of faith and practice, and who remain true to, and acknowledge as a true exhibition of sound Christian doctrine, all the Symbolical Books of the Evangelical Lutheran Church as they are contained in the Book of Concord of 1580, to wit, the three Ecumenical Creeds (the Apostolic, The Nicene, and the Athanasian), the Unaltered Augsburg Confession, the Apology of the Augsburg Confession, the Smalcald Articles, Luther’s Large Catechism, Luther’s Small Catechism and the Formula of Concord, for the purposes of continuing and perpetuating the good work of disseminating the Gospel in accordance with the established doctrine of The Lutheran Church-Missouri Synod through religious, educational, and charitable means. ARTICLE III A. MEMBERSHIP General Members The membership of the District consists of all those members of The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod (congregations, ministers of religion—ordained and ministers of religion—commissioned, as defined by the Constitution and Bylaws of The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod) who have been received into the District at the time of joining the Synod, who have been transferred from another District, or who have been assigned to the District by the Synod. Termination of membership in the Synod terminates membership in the District. 2012 Convention Section D – Resolutions Page D-14 1 2 B. Voting Members 3 4 5 All organized congregations that have joined The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod and are within the bounds of the Central Illinois District as now or hereafter defined by the Synod hold voting membership. 6 7 8 9 10 At the meetings of the District of the Synod every such congregation or multiple-congregation parish is entitled to two votes, one of which is to be cast by the pastor and the other by the lay delegate elected and confirmed by said congregation or multiple-congregation parish. These shall be the voting representatives. 11 12 13 C. Advisory Members 14 15 16 Advisory members only are those members of the Synod listed as advisory members in the Constitution of the Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod in Article V “Membership,” section B. “Advisory Members.” 17 18 ARTICLE IV POWERS 19 20 21 22 The District shall have legal powers to receive, acquire, hold, manage, control, sell, mortgage, lease or otherwise dispose of real and personal property and franchise as hereafter may be acquired by this corporation in the interest of its work. 23 2012 Convention Section D – Resolutions Page D-15 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 CONSTITUTION OF THE LUTHERAN CHURCH—MISSOURI SYNOD CENTRAL ILLINOIS DISTRICT The Central Illinois District is a component part and division of The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod and is established by the Synod in order more effectively to achieve its objectives and carry on its activities. The Constitution of the Synod is also the Constitution of the Central Illinois District, as found and stated in the Handbook of The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod. The Bylaws of the Synod shall be primarily the Bylaws of the District. The District may adopt additional bylaws, regulations, and resolutions necessary or proper for its own administration or for effectively carrying on the work of the Synod. Such bylaws, regulations, and resolutions shall not conflict with the Constitution and Bylaws of the Synod. The District is the Synod itself performing the functions of the Synod. Resolutions of the Synod are binding on the District. The geographical boundaries are determined by the Synod. These boundaries may be altered by the Synod according to circumstances. 2012 Convention Section D – Resolutions Page D-16 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 32 33 34 35 36 37 38 39 40 41 42 43 44 45 46 47 48 49 50 51 52 53 54 BYLAWS OF THE LUTHERAN CHURCH—MISSOURI SYNOD CENTRAL ILLINOIS DISTRICT I. MEMBERSHIP 1.01 Application and Reception The application for membership and the reception into membership shall be governed by the Bylaws of The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod. 1.02 Duties of Members Every member of the Synod shall, in accordance with his vocation, his ability, and the means at his command, diligently and earnestly promote the purposes of the Synod by word, deed, and adequate financial support. 1.03 Accrediting of Delegates A pastor of a voting congregation and the lay delegate of a voting congregation shall stand accredited and entitled to vote upon presenting to the Secretary at the opening of the convention the proper credentials signed by two of the congregation’s officers. If a pastor serves two or more congregations, these congregations shall be regarded as one parish and shall be entitled to only one lay vote (Synodical Bylaw 4.2.2 (a). II. ADMINISTRATION A. OFFICERS, BOARDS, COMMISSIONS, COMMITTEES 2.01 Officers The elective officers of the District shall be the following: a President, two Vice-Presidents, a Secretary, an Assistant Secretary, a Treasurer, a Financial Secretary, and a Circuit Counselor Visitor for each circuit. 2.02 Boards, Commissions, Committees The boards, commissions, and committees of the District to be elected or appointed shall be the following: a. Elected by the Delegate Convention of the District 1. A Board of Directors – subdivided by appointment as follows: A Commission on Mission Services A Commission on Evangelism Services A Commission on Congregational Life A Commission on Education Services A Commission on Stewardship Services A Commission on Finance and Management 2012 Convention Section D – Resolutions Page D-17 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 32 33 34 35 36 37 38 39 40 41 42 43 44 45 46 47 48 49 50 51 52 53 54 55 56 57 58 59 2. A Congregational Constitutions and District Handbook Committee 3. A District Nominations Committee b. Appointed by the Board of Directors A committee on Communication Services A Social Ministry Committee An Auditing Committee An Archivist c. Appointed by the President A Ministerial Health Committee A Christian Legislative Concerns Committee A Committee on Architecture and Construction Assistance to Local Congregations (Explanation of Terms) The term “parish pastor” refers to the called pastors and associate or assistant pastors shepherding a congregation or congregations which hold voting membership in the District. The term “pastor” refers to a person who is on the Ministers of Religion-Ordained roster of the Synod, which includes, in addition to those named above, retired pastors, chaplains, and ordained ministers called to synodical institutions and Recognized Service Organizations. The term “parish teacher” refers to a person who is on the Ministers of Religion-Commissioned roster of the Synod and who is serving as a teacher or director of Christian education in a congregation or congregations which hold voting membership in the District. The term “teacher” refers to a person who is on the Ministers of Religion-Commissioned roster of the Synod, which includes others than those named above. The term “layman” refers to a voting lay member of a congregation which holds voting membership in the District. 2.03 Term of Office a. The term of office for all officers and members of boards, commissions, and committees, elected or appointed, shall be three years, unless otherwise specified. b. Newly elected officers and members of boards, commissions, and committees shall assume office at close of the convention. 2.04 Successive Terms a. The office of President of the District and of the two Vice-Presidents shall be limited to three consecutive terms. b. All other officers and members of boards, commissions, and committees shall be limited to two consecutive terms, except members of the Nominations Committee whose term of service is three years and who may not succeed themselves. c. Any officer or member of a board, commission, or committee, who is ineligible for re-election or reappointment, may be elected or appointed to any other position. He may become eligible again for election or appointment to the same office, board or committee after an interval of three or more years. 2.05 Vacancies a. Special provisions are indicated for vacancies occurring in the District Presidency. 2012 Convention Section D – Resolutions Page D-18 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 32 33 34 35 36 37 38 39 40 41 42 43 44 b. Vacancies that occur in the office of circuit counselor visitor between conventions shall be filled by appointment by the District President (Synodical Bylaw 5.2.2.1). c. Any vacancy occurring in any other elective office, board, or committee shall be filled by appointment of the District President with the approval of the Board of Directors in the respective classification of pastor ordained minister, teacher or DCE, or layman. d. The member thus appointed shall serve out the term of the person he succeeds. If the un-expired term is less than 1-1/2 years, it shall not prevent his being elected for two successive terms thereafter. 2.06 How Offices are Filled The District offices shall be filled in the following manner in the year preceding the general Synodical convention: a. By election 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. The President of the District The Two Vice-Presidents The Secretary The Assistant Secretary The Treasurer The Financial Secretary The Board of Directors: four parish pastors, four laymen who are voting members of congregations of the District, two parish teachers or DCEs 8. The Circuit Counselors Visitors 9. Congregational Constitution and District Handbook Committee: two Ministers of ReligionOrdained (one to be a parish pastor), one layman (a lawyer) 10. District Nominations Committee: two parish pastors, two parish teachers or DCEs, two laymen who are voting members of congregations of the District. b. By Appointment 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. Committee on Communication Services: one Minister of Religion-Ordained, one Minister of Religion-Commissioned, one layman (TV-Radio-Newspaper), one editor Social Ministries Committee: two Ministers of Religion-Ordained, one Minister of ReligionCommissioned, two laymen Ministerial Health Committee: two pastors ordained ministers, one teacher or DCE, two laymen (one physician or psychiatrist, if possible) Archivist Christian Legislative Concerns Committee Committee on Architecture and Construction Assistance to local congregations 2012 Convention Section D – Resolutions Page D-19 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 32 33 34 35 36 37 38 39 40 41 42 43 44 45 46 47 48 49 50 51 52 53 54 55 56 57 2.07 Sundry Regulations a. Every board, commission, and committee shall organize at the first meeting after its election or appointment to select a chairman, vice-chairman, and secretary, and shall conduct its business in accordance with accepted parliamentary rules. b. All officers, boards, committees, and personnel shall surrender all records and equipment in their custody to their successors at the expiration of their term of office. c. All board, commissions, and committees, including the Archivist, shall be accountable to the District for all their actions and shall make a full report on the activities to the District at each convention. B. THE PRESIDENT OF THE DISTRICT 2.08 Relation to President of Synod The District President by virtue of his office represents Synod in his respective territory. He shall therefore regularly report to the President of Synod (Synodical Bylaw 4.4.2). 2.09 Duties a. The District President, in accordance with the Constitution of the Synod (Article XII) and Bylaws of the Synod (section 4.4), shall supervise the doctrine, the life, and the official administration on the part of the pastors and the teachers of the District. Therefore, as often as possible, he shall attend the conferences of pastors and teachers, advise the congregations of the District as to the calling of pastors and teachers, give counsel, and respond to requests and inquiries. He may call upon the vice-presidents and the circuit counselors visitors to assist him (Synodical Bylaw 4.4.5). b. The District President, even without formal request therefore, may through the proper channels arrange for an official visit or an investigation when a controversy arises in a congregation or between two or more congregations of the District, or when there is evidence of a continuing unresolved problem in doctrine or practice. He shall ask for a full report on the case in order that he may have a clear understanding of the situation. If the District President authorizes anyone to represent him in such matters, his representative shall be accorded the same rights as the District President (Synodical Bylaw 4.4.6). c. The District President shall annually revise the official roster of Ministers of Religion-Ordained and Ministers of Religion-Commissioned for publication in the LUTHERAN ANNUAL and remove the names of those who have died, have severed their connections with the Synod, have been eliminated from the roster by the Council of Presidents, have resigned their status as Ministers of Religion-Ordained or Ministers of Religion-Commissioned in the Synod, or have in some way disqualified themselves for service in the church (Synodical Bylaws 4.4.7 and 4.4.8). d. The District President has the responsibility to see to it that the resolutions of the Synod and District are implemented. e. The District President shall make an official report to the District at its convention. f. At the sessions of the District, the President shall conduct the meetings according to the accepted parliamentary rules and in accordance with the Constitution and Bylaws of the Synod and the Rules and Regulations of the District. g. The District President shall be an ex-officio member of all commissions and committees of the District, except the Nominations Committee. As supervising officer of the District, he shall advise the Board of Directors and its various commissions and committees. 2012 Convention Section D – Resolutions Page D-20 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 32 33 34 35 36 37 38 39 40 41 42 43 44 45 46 47 48 49 50 51 52 53 54 55 56 57 58 h. The District President and the Secretary shall sign all legal documents and instruments. i. The District President shall perform all additional duties which the District places upon him through its Bylaws, regulations, or special resolutions. 2.10 President – A Full-Time Executive a. The District President shall be a full-time executive. He shall not be in charge of a congregation or hold a chair at any educational institution, but may be called as an assistant pastor provided such services do not interfere with his official duties as President. b. A District President who, before he has reached the official (pension) retirement age, fails to be reelected to this full-time office, or elects to resign his position because of infirmity, shall receive full monthly compensation for up to six (6) months or until the commencement of full-time employment or retirement benefits, if sooner. 2.11 If the President is Unable to Serve a. The duties and responsibilities of the Presidency shall be assumed by the First Vice-President as Acting President on a part-time basis whenever the Board of Directors determines that the District President is temporarily unable to serve because of prolonged illness or disability. b. In the event that the office of District President is permanently vacated on or less than 18 months prior to the next District convention, the First Vice-President shall assume the duties and responsibilities of the Presidency serve as Acting President on a part-time basis until the next regular District convention. He would be eligible to serve in three consecutive terms thereafter. c. In the event that the office of District President is permanently vacated more than 18 months prior to the next District convention, the First Vice-President shall serve on a full-time basis until the next regular District convention. d. In the event that the First Vice-President is unable to serve as Acting President assume the duties and responsibilities of the Presidency on a part-time basis, the Second Vice-President shall serve in such capacity. C. THE VICE-PRESIDENTS OF THE DISTRICT 2.12 Regional Vice-Presidents a. The District shall elect two Vice-Presidents, who shall be regional Vice-Presidents, that is, one of the Vice-Presidents shall at the time of the election be in the eastern region of the District, namely, the Altamont, Champaign, Danville, Decatur, Effingham, Iroquois, Mattoon, Shelby, Springfield East, or Springfield West Circuits; the other shall at the time of election be in the western region of the District, namely, the Bloomington North & South, Jacksonville, Lincoln, Peoria, Quincy, Rock Island, or Tazewell Circuits. b. If a regional Vice-President shall moves to the other out of the region within the District, he may continue to function as Vice-President until his term expires must vacate his office (Synodical Bylaw 4.3.3). 2.13 Relation to President The Vice-President shall, upon request of the President, or as may be provided by the District, advise, assist, or represent the President. 2.14 Ranking of Vice-Presidents 2012 Convention Section D – Resolutions Page D-21 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 32 33 34 35 36 37 38 39 40 41 42 43 44 45 The Vice-Presidents shall be ranked as First Vice-President and Second Vice-President in the manner prescribed by the Bylaws under procedure for election (see district Bylaw 2.37 and following). 2.15 Succession a. The Vice-Presidents shall, in the order in which they have been ranked, perform the duties of the President in the event the President becomes incapacitated or the President’s office is vacated. b. A vacancy in the First Vice-Presidency shall be filled by advancing the Second Vice-President. The remaining A vacancy in the Second Vice Presidency shall then be filled by the President from the reserve list of nominations, that is from the nominees left after the previous election, according to the number of votes received, as long as the nominee resides in the vacant region. D. THE SECRETARY OF THE DISTRICT 2.16 Qualifications The Secretary shall be an pastor ordained minister who is a member of one of the congregations of the District. 2.17 Duties a. The Secretary shall record the proceedings during District conventions, publish the proceedings after the President has approved the manuscript, sign (in conjunction with the President) all legal documents and instruments, and perform such other work as the District may direct him through its Bylaws, regulations, or special resolutions. b. The Assistant Secretary shall assist the Secretary whenever requested to do so. In the event that the Secretary becomes incapacitated or vacates his office, the Assistant Secretary shall take over the office and duties of the Secretary. c. The Secretary shall certify delegates for synodical conventions and synodical presidential elections (Synodical Bylaws 3.1.3.2 and 3.12.2.3). E. THE TREASURER OF THE DISTRICT 2.18 Qualifications The Treasurer shall be a lay voting member of one of the congregations of the District and shall be familiar with accounting and good business practices, and of good standing in his congregation and community. 2012 Convention Section D – Resolutions Page D-22 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 32 33 34 35 36 37 38 39 40 41 42 43 44 45 46 47 48 49 50 51 2.19 Duties a. The Treasurer shall be responsible for the receipt, safeguarding, and proper disbursement of District funds through the establishment of appropriate procedures, systems, records, and internal controls, possibly utilizing the services of the Business Manager (if appointed), whose assistance in such functions would be under the supervision of the Treasurer. b. He shall be responsible for the establishment of one or more bank accounts as authorized by the Board of Directors and shall establish proper safeguarding and custody of securities, documents, and other legal or valuable papers of the District in one or more safe-deposit boxes or other depository or file as may be appropriate in the interest of security against loss or destruction. c. He shall cause to be prepared such financial reports, budgets, work programs, statistics, and related data as shall be requested by the Board of Directors or as shall be appropriate in the operation of the District’s business. d. He shall supervise the purchase of investments as authorized by the Board of Directors. e. He shall attend meetings of the Board of Directors, the Commission on Finance and Management, Budget Advisory Conferences, District conventions, and any other meetings where the financial affairs of the District are being considered or reviewed, and he shall present such reports and summaries as necessary or required. F. THE FINANCIAL SECRETARY OF THE DISTRICT 2.20 Qualifications The Financial Secretary shall be a lay voting member of one of the congregations of the District and shall be familiar with general business practices. 2.21 Duties a. The Financial Secretary shall be responsible for the preparation of a statistical record of all budget and miscellaneous contributions received by the District Treasury. b. He shall be responsible for the issuance of regular reports in the official District news publication showing the contributions of each congregation in such manner and frequency as directed by the Board of Directors. c. He shall be responsible for keeping an accurate account of the communicant membership of every congregation, of each circuit, and of the district. d. He shall be responsible for reporting to the Board of Directors, congregations which may experience difficulty in being current with District/Synod mission Commitment. e. He may be assisted in the fulfillment of these responsibilities through such service and assistance as may be arranged with the Business Manager (if appointed). 2012 Convention Section D – Resolutions Page D-23 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 32 33 34 35 36 37 38 39 40 41 42 43 44 45 46 47 48 49 50 51 52 53 54 55 56 57 58 G. THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS OF THE DISTRICT 2.22 Membership a. The Board of Directors shall be constituted as follows: The President, the Vice-Presidents, the Secretary, the Treasurer, and the Financial Secretary shall be members of the Board. Four parish pastors, four laymen who are voting members of congregations of the District, and two parish teachers of Lutheran elementary or secondary schools or DCEs serving congregations shall be elected according to procedures defined in these Bylaws. b. The Administrative Assistant(s) to the President, the Assistant Secretary, and the Business Manager (if appointed), shall be advisory members of the Board. c. Every member of the Board shall be a member of a voting congregation of the District. No two members of the same congregation may be members of the Board. When a member of the Board ceases to be a member of a voting congregation of the District or when the nature of his major duties is such that he no longer is a member of the group from which he was elected, he is automatically eliminated from membership on the Board. 2.23 Officers The Board of Directors shall elect its own chairman, and vice-chairman. 2.24 Prohibition of Conflict of Interest a. No officer, director, board or commission member of the District or any agency of the District shall use his position or knowledge acquired from his services in such a manner that a conflict between his personal or business interest and the interest and general welfare of The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod arises (see Synodical Bylaw 1.5.2). b. Officers or members of District boards or commissions shall not enter into gainful business transactions directly or indirectly, with any board or commission on which they serve. 2.25 Responsibilities, Commissions a. The Board of Directors as a whole is charged with the responsibility of handling for the District all matters pertaining to missions, evangelism, parish education, youth ministry, finances, stewardship, and student aid. b. After each District election the Board shall appoint out of its voting and/or advisory membership six commissions for a period of three years: A Commission on Mission Services A Commission on Evangelism Services A Commission on Congregational Life A Commission on Education Services A Commission on Stewardship Services A Commission on Finance and Management Immediately after such organization it shall inform all congregations and pastors ordained and teachers commissioned ministers of the District concerning the personnel of such commissions and indicate to which member communications inquiring for information and/or assistance are to be sent. c. In order properly to direct the work in the different fields, various duties and powers are prescribed for the Board of Directors. Since the Board through the commissions administers the work in the different fields, the regulations apply primarily to the particular commission involved and shall be so stated. However, as each commission must submit its findings to the Board for action, all duties and powers delegated to any particular commission actually remain the responsibility of the Board of Directors, 2012 Convention Section D – Resolutions Page D-24 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 32 33 34 35 36 37 38 39 40 41 42 43 44 45 46 47 48 49 50 51 52 although it may act through a particular commission. Rules and regulations are assigned to the various commissions only in order to designate which phases of the work are the primary responsibility of certain groups within the Board of Directors. d. Each commission shall meet at the call of its chairman as often as is necessary to conduct its business. e. Each commission shall be responsible for its share of the Board of Directors’ annual report to the District convention. f. Subcommittees: Each commission, with the approval of the Board of Directors, may augment itself and/or appoint such personnel and committees as are needed to carry out the overall objectives of the commission. All such appointments will terminate at the close of the convention. 2.26 Meetings a. The Board shall meet not fewer than four times a year, or at the call of the Chairman, or at the call of three members of the Board. A majority of the Board members shall constitute a quorum. The District shall pay all expenses incurred. b. The Secretary of the Board shall keep accurate minutes of each meeting of the Board and copies of these minutes shall be sent after each meeting to all members of the Board. A summary of the actions of the Board shall be sent to all circuit counselors visitors and circuit lay-delegates, the Auditing Committee, the Public Relations Committee on Communication Services, and to each congregation on a regular basis. 2.27 Administrative Assistant(s) to the President, and the Business Manager (if appointed). The Board shall appoint the Administrative Assistant(s) to the President and may appoint a Business Manager. 2.28 Financial Duties a. The Board shall bond or insure the fiduciary officers and such employees of the District as it deems advisable, such bond or insurance policy to be in the custody of the District President. b. The Board shall designate the signatories, in addition to the President and the Treasurer, who are to be duly certified for the financial transactions of the District. c. The Board shall determine the remuneration of the President, the Administrative Assistant(s) to the President, and the Business Manager (if appointed). d. Budgeting Procedure: After the commitments for each year have been received from the congregations, one member of each of the commissions, together with the Financial Secretary and Treasurer, shall propose a tentative income and expenditures budget for the next fiscal year for the consideration of the Board of Directors. The Board of Directors shall establish the budget at its first meeting in the new fiscal year. e. Following the District Convention and before the beginning of the next fiscal year, the Board shall appoint an Auditing Committee. Such committee shall stand for three years. 2012 Convention Section D – Resolutions Page D-25 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 32 33 34 35 36 37 38 39 40 41 42 43 44 45 46 47 48 49 50 51 52 53 54 55 56 57 2.29 Powers and Duties with Respect to the Property of the District a. The Board of Directors shall hold in trust all properties of the Central Illinois District and shall have the power to transact the business of the District between conventions; always, however, subject to the rules and regulations of the District. b. The Board of Directors is hereby empowered to hold, purchase, and sell property, make loans, hold mortgages and chattels, etc., in the name of and for the benefit of the Central Illinois District of The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod. c. Purchase or sale of property exceeding $300,000 must be approved by a majority of circuit counselors visitors and circuit lay-delegates present at a meeting called for this purpose. 2.30 Other Duties a. The Board may call missionaries-at-large and place them in new mission fields within the boundaries of the District. The Board may also call campus pastors and institutional chaplains and make appointment of part-time workers at various institutions within the boundaries of the District. b. The circuit counselors visitors the District shall be regularly informed of the transactions and directions of the Board. In any matter affecting a particular circuit the Board shall confer with the counselor visitor of that circuit. c. The Board of Directors shall be accountable to the delegate convention of the District and shall present a complete report of its actions at each District convention. Appeals may be made from the actions of the Board to the District convention, and the action of the convention on such appeals shall be final. d. Nothing shall be done by the Board which is in conflict with the rules and regulations of the Synod or of the Central Illinois District. H. STAFF 2.31 Administrative Assistant(s) to the President a. Administrative Assistant(s) to the President may be appointed by the Board of Directors as it deems necessary or as may be determined by the District convention. b. The Administrative Assistant(s) shall report regularly to the Board of Directors and to the President on the activities of his office. c. The term of office, unless otherwise specified, shall be for a period of three years, with no limitation on reappointment to successive terms. Appointees may normally expect reappointment if their work proves satisfactory and there is a continuing need for their services, but every appointment shall be subject to mandatory review and decision on reappointment every 3 years. d. Procedures for removing or terminating an appointment shall be in accordance with the Bylaws of the Synod (cf. Synodical Bylaw 3.11.1). e. Duties of the Administrative Assistant(s): i. Devote his efforts to the promotion of the Kingdom of God in the Central Illinois District of The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod; ii. Carry out the decisions of the Board as it may direct and shall be a(n) advisory member(s) of the Board; 2012 Convention Section D – Resolutions Page D-26 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 32 33 34 35 36 37 38 39 40 41 42 43 44 45 46 47 48 49 50 51 52 53 54 55 56 57 iii. Assist the President, as he directs, in the President’s supervisory responsibility with reference to the operating and service divisions of the District; iv. Serve as an advisory member of and as field representative for the respective commission(s) to which he has been assigned, and shall seek to visit all congregations in the interest of the assigned responsibilities and areas of service as time permits, and make such special visits as directed by the commission(s) or the President or by the Board of Directors. 2.32 Business Manager (if appointed) a. The Board of Directors may appoint a Business Manager, who is to be generally responsible to the Board of Directors and specifically responsible to certain commissions or officers as indicated herein. b. Duties of the Business Manager (if appointed): i. Property Management: The Business Manager shall be responsible for the regular inspection of all District-owned property, recommending any items for repair and maintenance to the appropriate commission or the Board of Directors, and shall maintain records on major maintenance items such as roofs, redecoration, and exterior painting. ii. Property Selection: The Business Manager shall assist the Board of Directors or any commission, upon request, in the examination of sites and buildings in contemplation of purchase or other acquisition by the District. iii. Legal Responsibilities: The Business Manager shall assist the Board of Directors or any commission in the legal details involved in all purchases of sites and buildings and shall supervise the safekeeping of the deeds, mortgages, abstracts, and related records of all District-owned or mortgaged property. iv. Insurance Management: The Business Manager shall maintain proper insurance coverage on all property of the District, shall seek to obtain the best insurance values on behalf of the District, shall verify and recommend for payment any premiums as they come due, and shall handle all claims arising under such insurance coverage. He shall also handle any other forms of insurance which the District may purchase. Such duties may be delegated to a layman of the District, appointed by the Board, as Insurance Manager under the supervision of the Business Manager. v. Other Property Management: The Business Manager shall assure the Board of Directors that the proper taxes, if any, are being paid on District-owned property, or that exemptions are filed and in effect if such is appropriate. He shall likewise be available to any District commission in connection with any property matters, such as acting as liaison between an architect, a contractor, and any commission of the District, in contemplation of or in process of the construction of any building. He shall seek such assistance as is necessary or appropriate in all property management functions, utilizing where possible the experience and abilities of members of the congregations and reporting such appointments to the Board of Directors for approval or recognition, as may be appropriate. vi. Office Management: The Business Manager shall serve as office manager for the District office and shall be responsible for the maintenance of adequate facilities, supplies, and clerical and secretarial employment. vii. Assisting the District Treasurer: The Business Manager shall assist the Treasurer and shall be under his supervision with respect to the receipt, custody, recording, and disbursement of District funds. He shall handle such business matters as supervision of receipts, check preparation, general correspondence pertaining to general District financial matters, and such other duties as may be assigned by the Treasurer. 2012 Convention Section D – Resolutions Page D-27 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 32 33 34 35 36 37 38 39 40 41 42 43 44 45 46 47 48 49 50 51 52 53 54 55 56 57 I. OTHER COMMITTEES 2.33 The Congregational Constitutions and District Handbook Committee a. Membership: The Congregational Constitution and District Handbook Committee shall consist of two pastors ordained ministers, at least one of whom shall be a parish pastor, and one layman who is a voting member of a congregation of the District, who shall be an attorney. b. Duties: i. A congregation which applies for membership in the Synod shall send its constitution and bylaws to the District President, who shall refer them to the Congregational Constitutions and District Handbook Committee. This committee shall examine the constitution and bylaws to ascertain whether or not their provisions are in harmony with Scriptures and the teachings and practices of the Synod, in order that any necessary changes may be made by the congregation. A congregation shall not be granted membership in the Synod until it has made such changes as the Committee has deemed necessary and the Committee has notified the District President of its approval of the congregation’s constitution and bylaws. Once a congregation’s application for membership has been approved by the District Board of Directors or, if denied by the Board of Directors and requested by the congregation, approved by the District Convention, a copy of its constitution and bylaws shall be forwarded to the secretary of the District and retained in the District office for future reference (Synodical Bylaws 2.2.1 – 2.3.2). ii. A member congregation which translates, revises, or amends its constitution and/or bylaws or adopts a new constitution and/or bylaws shall submit such translation, revision, amendment, or new constitution and/or bylaws to the District President who shall direct it to the Congregational Constitutions and District Handbook Committee for review. Upon favorable action by the District Board of Directors, the congregation shall be notified that the changes have been approved and that the congregation may function under the new or changed constitution and/or bylaws without jeopardizing its good standing in the Synod. Such actions shall be reported to the next convention of the District. A copy of such constitutions and/or bylaws shall be retained in the District office for future reference (Synodical Bylaws 2.4.1 and 2.4.2). iii. The committee shall request, receive and keep on permanent file a copy of the constitution and bylaws of every congregation in the District. iv. The committee shall be responsible for revising the District Handbook and for providing the Synodical Commission on Constitutional Matters with a copy of any proposed revisions for its prior approval. After each District convention the committee shall be responsible for disseminating copies of the revised version of the District Handbook to the congregations of the District. 2.34 The Social Ministry Committee a. Membership: The Board of Directors shall appoint a Social Ministry Committee consisting of two pastors ordained ministers, one teacher or DCE, and two laymen who are voting members of congregations of the District. b. The Duties of the Social Ministry Committee: i. Provide advisory services which will cultivate congregation members in their concern for human care, and shall participate in social education and endeavors to remove or alleviate human suffering; ii. Promote and participate in human care activities from the Office of National Mission and the Office of International Mission; 2012 Convention Section D – Resolutions Page D-28 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 32 33 34 35 36 37 38 39 40 41 42 43 44 45 46 47 48 49 50 51 52 53 54 55 56 iii. Recommend to the Board of Directors the granting of assistance to congregations, or through them to their members or others, in dire emergencies or disaster situations; iv. Assist the Commission on Mission Services, upon request, in the institutional ministries of the District. 2.35 The Ministerial Health Committee a. Membership: The President of the District shall appoint a Ministerial Health Committee consisting of two pastors ordained ministers, one teacher or DCE, and two laymen who are voting members of congregations of the District, at least one of whom shall, if possible, be a physician or psychiatrist. b. Duties: The Committee shall provide opportunity for the continuing education and vocational growth of the church’s workers, advocate and facilitate care and counsel for the church’s workers to support them in the performance of their official duties, and advocate and facilitate support for the personal well-being of the church’s workers and their family members. 2.36 The Auditing Committee a. Membership: The Auditing Committee shall consist of three laymen who are voting members of congregations of the District and qualified for such work through accounting and related experiences, one of whom shall be a certified public accountant. b. Duties: The Auditing Committee shall meet in mid-year with the Treasurer and Business Manager (if appointed) to review records, vouchers, instruments, cash and bank balances, notes receivable and payable, insurance papers, etc., and shall submit its report to the Board of Directors. c. Special Audit: The Auditing Committee shall annually, or more frequently at the request of the Board of Directors, engage a firm of Certified Pubic Accountants to audit the books and financial records of the District and such other funds and records as the Auditing Committee or the Board of Directors in their judgment may consider appropriate. The Auditing Committee shall review the audit reports as submitted by the independent CPA firm, and shall prepare a report with recommendations to the Board of Directors and to the District convention. At least annually notice shall be given to each congregation within the District that a copy of the latest audit is available from each circuit counselor visitor and upon request from a congregation, a copy or copies will be supplied from the District office. d. Bonding: The Auditing Committee shall recommend to the Board of Directors the amount and form of bonding or insurance which the District shall maintain in force on the Treasurer, Business Manager (if appointed), employees, and such other persons as may be deemed appropriate for such bonding coverage. J. REGULATIONS GOVERNING NOMINATIONS AND ELECTIONS 2.37 General Regulations a. Appointment of Committee: In preparation for the elections at the District convention the President, in consultation with the Vice-Presidents, shall appoint an Elections Committee, consisting of two pastors ordained ministers, two teachers or DCEs, and two laymen who are voting members of congregations of the District. b. The Elections Committee, in consultation with the Nominations Committee, shall make the necessary provisions for elections and shall conduct and supervise the elections according to District regulations. The members of the Election Committee shall serve until their successors have been appointed. 2.38 Order of Elections 2012 Convention Section D – Resolutions Page D-29 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 32 33 34 35 36 37 38 39 40 41 42 43 44 45 46 47 48 49 50 51 52 53 54 55 56 57 58 a. In the year preceding the election of the officers of Synod, the election shall proceed as follows: The President and Vice-Presidents shall be elected first, as provided hereinafter; then the Secretary, the Assistant Secretary, the Treasurer, the Financial Secretary, the members of the Board of Directors, the circuit counselors visitors, and the members of the standing commissions and committees of the District. b. Tie Vote: In case of a tie vote to any of the offices, the names of 15 delegates shall be drawn from a container containing the names of all the accredited delegates, to vote for one of the candidates. c. b. Proxy: There shall be no voting by proxy at any District election. 2.39 Order of Names on Ballot The names, congregational affiliation, and post office address of the congregation of each candidate in all elections shall be placed on the ballot in alphabetical order and without any distinctive mark. 2.40 Nomination for President a. Advance Nominating Ballot: Five months before the regular election each congregation and each pastor holding voting membership in the District shall receive from the Secretary of the District an official nominating ballot on which to nominate a one or two candidates for President. The congregation’s ballot shall be signed by the chairman and secretary of the congregation. Both The ballots, duly filled in and signed, must be returned to the Secretary of the District at least eight weeks prior to the convention at which the election will be held in order to be counted. b. Notice of Nomination for President: The Secretary of the District shall notify the five candidates who received the highest number of nominations for the office of President (provided they received at least 5% of the total nominations submitted), but the number of nominating votes shall not be revealed. Such nominees who for good and sufficient reasons will not be able to serve in this particular full-time office shall so inform the Secretary of the District at least five weeks prior to the convention. Should any of the five nominees decline the nomination, the Secretary of the District shall notify the nominee receiving the next highest number of votes (as long as it is at least 5% of the total nominations submitted). 2.41 Election of President a. The Secretary of the District shall report to the convention and deliver to the Elections Committee an alphabetical list of the five persons nominated for the office of President in accord with the provisions above together with a tabulation of the nominating votes. These candidates shall be introduced to the convention. b. The election of the President shall take place as soon as possible after the convention is in session. c. If no candidate receives a majority on the first ballot, the name of the candidate who received the smallest number of votes shall be stricken from the list, and a new ballot taken immediately. This procedure is to be followed until a person is elected. 2.42 Nominations for Vice-Presidents A primary election for the nomination of candidates for the office of Vice-President shall be held after the President has been elected. Ballots for the nominations shall be prepared in such manner that each voting delegate shall have opportunity for one nomination for each of the regional Vice-Presidents. 2.43 Election of Vice-Presidents a. The ballot for the election of the Vice-Presidents shall list three candidates for each of the regional VicePresidents. The names of those candidates who received the greater number of votes in the primary election shall be placed on the ballot, even though one or two may have received a majority in the primary election. 2012 Convention Section D – Resolutions Page D-30 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 32 33 34 35 36 37 38 39 40 41 42 43 44 45 46 47 48 49 50 51 52 53 54 55 56 57 b. In the regular election each voting delegate shall be entitled to vote for each of the regional VicePresidents. If a candidate in either region receives a majority on the first ballot, such candidate or candidates shall be declared elected. If no candidate receives a majority in one region or in either region, the name of the candidate or candidates receiving the smallest number of votes for his region shall be removed from the next ballot. Another vote shall then be taken. 2.44 Ranking of the Vice-Presidents After the two Vice-Presidents have been elected, another ballot shall be taken to determine their rank. Each voting delegate shall indicate his choice for the office of First Vice-President. The candidate receiving the greater number of votes shall be declared First Vice-President, and the other candidate shall automatically be declared Second Vice-President. 2.45 Election of the Circuit Counselor Visitor a. The District shall create a sufficient number of circuits and elect a circuit counselor visitor for each circuit from among the pastors serving congregations and emeriti pastors who are members of voting congregations thereof, to make possible official visits to each congregation once in three years, in accordance with Synodical Bylaw 4.4.4. b. Each circuit forums shall meet at the call of its circuit counselor visitor at least four months prior to the District convention. Nominations for candidates for the office of circuit counselor visitor may be submitted by a voting congregation of the circuit and suggested by the District President, in consultation with the praesidium of the District. Selection of the circuit counselor visitor at the circuit forum shall be election by written ballot. The privilege of voting shall be exercised by the representatives from each member of the circuit, who shall have been selected in the manner prescribed by the congregation (Synodical Bylaw 5.3.2). Following presentations of pertinent information regarding each pastor (cf. Synodical Bylaw 3.12.3.6(c)) and regarding circuit counselor visitor responsibilities as provided in Synodical Bylaw 5.2.3, each voter shall write in the names of two pastors on the initial ballot. The three pastors (or more in case of a tie) who receive the highest number of votes in this preliminary ballot shall be placed on the next ballot. Each voter shall then vote for only one candidate. The pastor who shall have received a simple majority of all votes cast shall be declared the nominee. If no pastor receives a majority, balloting shall continue with the candidate receiving the lowest number of votes being removed from each succeeding ballot. Immediately following the circuit forum, the circuit counselor visitor shall report in writing the results of the selection process to the secretary of the district in preparation for ratification by the district convention. Should the candidate(s) no longer be available for this office, a circuit caucus at the District convention shall have the right to act on behalf of the congregations to nominate a replacement the district president shall make the selection, which selection shall then be included on the convention slate of circuit visitors. The convention shall have the right to alter the slate by amendment. The convention shall then ratify the slate of Circuit Counselors Visitors, which ratification shall constitute election (Synodical Bylaw 5.2.2). c. Vacancies which occur in the office of circuit counselor visitor between conventions shall be filled by appointment by the District President (Synodical Bylaw 5.2.2.1). 2.46 Election of District Nominations Committee a. At each regular convention of the District six persons (two parish pastors, two parish teachers or DCEs, two laymen who are voting members of congregations of the District) shall be elected to serve as the Nominations Committee for the next convention. They are to be chosen from a list of candidates representative of the various geographical areas of the District, submitted by the current Nominations Committee and augmented by additional candidates, if any, nominated from the floor of the convention. 2012 Convention Section D – Resolutions Page D-31 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 32 33 34 35 36 37 38 39 40 41 42 43 44 45 46 47 48 49 50 51 52 53 54 55 56 b. The Nominations Committee is an ad hoc convention committee, to which limitations on holding multiple offices do not apply but whose members may not succeed themselves. c. Should a vacancy occur on the Nominations Committee, the District President shall appoint a replacement from the list of non-elected nominees to this committee for the same classification as the vacancy in the order of the highest number of votes received. d. The chairman and secretary of the committee shall be advisory members of the succeeding Nominations Committee. 2.47 Nominations for Other Offices a. The District Nominations Committee shall nominate two candidates each for the following offices: the Secretary, Assistant Secretary, Treasurer, and Financial Secretary (in accordance with Synodical Bylaw 4.3), for members of the Board of Directors, the Congregational Constitutions and District Handbook Committee, the District Nominations Committee, and for the District member and alternate to the Synodical Committee for Convention Nominations, in accordance with Synodical Bylaws 3.12.3 3.12.3.3. b. Candidates for membership on the Board of Directors shall be nominated so as to give equal representation, as nearly as practicable, to the various circuits of the District. c. The Nominations Committee shall present these lists of nominations to the convention for ratification or amendment in alphabetical order. This report shall contain pertinent information concerning the specific experiences and qualifications of each candidate for the office in question. 2.48 Election a. After approval of the nominations by the convention the Elections Committee shall prepare the ballots and direct the election of the above-named officers, boards, commissions, and committees. b. Election shall be by simple majority vote. c. In situations where delegates are asked to vote for more than one candidate on a single ballot, it is possible for more nominees to receive a majority vote than there are offices to fill. Should this situation occur, those nominees receiving the highest number of votes shall be declared elected. III. CIRCUIT OFFICIALS A. THE CIRCUIT COUNSELORS VISITORS 3.01 Circuit Counselors Visitors and District President a. Each circuit counselor visitor, by virtue of his office, shall assist the District President within the circuit. b. The circuit counselor visitor shall regularly report on his activities to the District President. c. The circuit counselor visitor is the principal officer of the circuit and serves in accordance with the duties assigned to this position in the Constitution and Bylaws of the Synod and District (Synodical Bylaw 5.2.1). 3.02 Circuit Counselors Visitors and Member Congregations 2012 Convention Section D – Resolutions Page D-32 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 32 33 34 35 36 37 38 39 40 41 42 43 44 45 46 47 48 49 50 51 52 53 54 55 56 57 58 a. The circuit counselor visitor shall, when requested to do so by the District President, serve as his representative to visit each congregation once in three years and otherwise as he deems it necessary (Synodical Bylaw 5.2.3.1). b. The purpose of the official visits with pastors, congregations, and schools shall be those described in the Synodical Handbook (Synodical Bylaws 5.2.3.1 and 5.2.3.2). c. The circuit counselor visitor may be assisted by an Administrative Assistant to the President in the visitation to Lutheran Schools. 3.03 Expenses of Circuit Counselors Visitors The circuit counselor visitor is authorized to draw on the District treasury for his expenses. 3.04 Circuit Forum a. Representation: Each congregation shall be represented at the circuit forum by its pastor and one lay member designated by the congregation. Depending on its adopted objectives, the circuit may request additional representation. The Circuit Forum is encouraged to meet at least twice a year (Synodical Bylaw 5.3.1). b. Purpose: The circuit forum is the group which aids the process of keeping congregations, particularly the lay leaders, pastors, and other church workers supportive of one another in their common confession and mutually active in developing programs for the good of member congregations, in considering and recommending new work, and in suggesting improvements for services and programming at the national and district levels. The circuit counselor visitor, with any other circuit officers, shall have the primary responsibility of preparing the agenda for the circuit forum. c. Functions: Among the functions which the circuit forum may perform are the following: (Synodical Bylaw 5.3.1) i. To study the Scriptures and the Confessions in order to promote an evangelical spirit in our walking together. ii. To develop and adopt within existing policies of the District complementary and sometimes joint plans for missions outreach in the circuit area; iii. To devise and develop programs and services relevant to the needs of circuit congregations, lay leaders, teachers, and pastors; iv. To receive and respond as appropriate to advice, guidance, resolutions, and programs in other sections of the Synod as such may be addressed to it from other circuits, the District, and the general Synod; v. To serve as a setting to review and evaluate programs, plans and long-range directions of the District and Synod, and thus participate in the triennial process of suggesting, developing, and attaining the Synod’s priorities and goals. d. Election of Synodical Convention Delegates: The circuit forum triennially shall elect the pastoral and lay delegate and their alternates, to the general convention of the Synod according to the regulations of the Synod (Synodical Bylaws 3.1.2 and 3.1.2.1). The lay delegate shall, upon election, serve through the triennium following the next convention as an advisory member of the circuit forum (Synodical Bylaw 5.3.3). e. Overtures: The circuit forum shall be qualified to submit overtures to national and district conventions (Synodical Bylaw 5.3.5). 3.05 Circuit Convocations 2012 Convention Section D – Resolutions Page D-33 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 32 33 34 35 36 37 38 39 40 41 42 43 44 45 46 47 48 49 50 51 52 53 54 55 56 57 a. The circuit convocation is a larger gathering of members from circuit congregations during a year in which there is no national or district convention. The circuit counselor visitor, with any other circuit officers, shall have the primary responsibility of preparing for the circuit convocation. b. The purpose of a circuit convocation is to provide a setting in which congregational members may know of and celebrate the ministry pursued by each congregation, may review and discuss the work of the circuit forum, may discuss and evaluate mission potential within the circuit, and may receive information on various phases of the work pursued through districts and Synod. As such, its emphasis should be on inspiration, education, motivation, and mission and theological discourse (Synodical Bylaw 5.4.2). B. THE CIRCUIT LAY-DELEGATES 3.06 Office The lay delegate elected by the circuit forum shall be the circuit lay-delegate. 3.07 Duties of the Circuit Lay-Delegates a. The circuit lay-delegate shall attend all meetings of his circuit, the Budget Advisory Conference, and such other meetings requiring his presence as may be called by the Board of Directors. He shall serve as an advisory member of the circuit forum. b. On special visits to the congregations he may accompany the circuit counselor visitor. c. He shall assist the circuit counselor visitor in reporting on the work of the Synod and of the District on his visits to the congregations. d. He shall endeavor to acquaint himself with the affairs of the Synod and of the District by every means available. e. He shall support the circuit counselor visitor in encouraging the congregations in the fuller use of the educational agencies available. f. He shall interest himself especially in the financial contributions of the congregations for home, district, and Synodical purposes. IV. DISPUTE RESOLUTION 4.01 Disputes defined in Bylaw Article 1.10 of the Synodical Handbook shall be resolved by the procedure set forth therein. V. EVANGELISM THE COMMISSION ON EVANGELISM SERVICES 5.01 Duties a. The Commission on Evangelism Services shall co-operate with Synod’s Office of National Mission to develop policies and provide programs of evangelism for use by individuals, congregations, circuits, and the District. In keeping with the Synod’s Office of National Mission, the policies and programs provided will include inreach, outreach, and assimilation/retention. b. It shall have the responsibility to make the work of evangelism the chief goal of our church. 2012 Convention Section D – Resolutions Page D-34 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 32 33 34 35 36 37 38 39 40 41 42 43 44 45 46 47 48 49 50 51 52 53 54 55 56 57 58 c. It shall strive to cultivate in members a greater mission consciousness and evangelistic concern. d. It shall arrange leadership training workshops and conferences in evangelism. e. It shall recommend and distribute evangelism materials. f. It is encouraged to avail itself of the assistance and experiences of additional pastors, teachers, and laymen in the District. g. The Commission on Evangelism Services may delegate much of the actual work to an evangelism field representative (district Bylaw 2.31 e.). 5.02 Subcommittees The Commission, with the approval of the Board of Directors, may appoint committees to assist in the various areas of activity. VI. CONGREGATIONAL LIFE THE COMMISSION ON CONGREGATIONAL LIFE 6.01 Duties The Commission on Congregational Life shall, in cooperation with Synod’s Office of National Mission, support and serve the congregations and professional workers of the District in their ministries of worship, nurture, service, and youth. The commission shall: a. Assist congregations and professional workers in stimulating members to serve the temporal needs of others in the community and world (so that the response to the Gospel of loving and caring for others may be demonstrated in life and vocation). b. Maintain liaison and cooperation with appropriate auxiliary and other service organizations recognized by the District. c. Assist congregations and professional workers in worship by providing literature for the understanding and love of our Lutheran heritage, and by recommending new worship forms worthy of use in Lutheran worship. d. Assist congregations and professional workers in developing loving and caring ministries to households of various Christian lifestyles. e. Encourage and assist congregations in establishing family life ministries. f. Encourage and assist congregations in establishing and maintaining youth ministries. g. Encourage and assist congregations with their educational ministries such as Sunday Schools, Bible Classes, Vacation Bible Schools, Saturday Schools, etc., with the exception of Christian Day Schools. 6.02 Subcommittees The commission, with the approval of the Board of Directors, may appoint committees to assist in furthering its work. 2012 Convention Section D – Resolutions Page D-35 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 32 33 34 35 36 37 38 39 40 41 42 43 44 45 46 47 48 49 50 51 52 53 54 55 VII. EDUCATION SERVICES THE COMMISSION ON EDUCATION SERVICES 7.01 Duties The Commission on Education Services shall cooperate with the Synod’s Office of National Mission and shall assist and advise the local congregations with regard to the whole range of Christian education, full time parochial education and continuing education for full and part-time church workers. The Commission shall help the local congregation achieve the objectives and scope of Christian education as outlined: a. Aid those congregations which have full time schools, e.g., preschools, elementary or high schools. b. Aid congregations by assisting in providing for continuing education for full and part-time church workers. c. Provide personnel services and resources for calling competent teaching staffs for the schools of the District. d. Work toward an improved quality of Christian education through in-service training programs for pastors, teachers, and DCEs; through analysis and interpretation of statistics gathered on the educational functions of our congregations; and by visiting congregations and Lutheran elementary and secondary schools. e. Encourage and promote congregation members to become lay or professional church workers. f. Provide a liaison with synodical education experts. 7.02 Subcommittees The Commission, with the approval of the Board of Directors, may appoint committees to assist in furthering its work, e.g., in the areas of Lutheran preschools, elementary and secondary schools; and continuing education for full and part-time church workers. VIII. MISSIONS THE COMMISSION ON MISSION SERVICES 8.01 Duties a. The function of the Commission on Mission Services shall be to “strengthen congregations and their members in giving bold witness by word and deed to the love and work of God, the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, and extend that Gospel witness into all the world” (Synodical Constitution III 2). b. The Commission on Mission Services shall direct its attention to the entire mission work of the District (home missions, institutional mission, campus ministry, etc.) and shall promote the cause of mission work in general. It shall explore territories in the District with a view to establishing mission stations and congregations. It shall recommend to the Board of Directors the calling of missionaries to new fields, if conditions warrant it, and the filling of vacancies occurring in the parishes which are not yet organized, and it shall supervise the work of the missionaries and pastors of subsidized congregations. Much of the actual work of exploring new fields, visiting and encouraging mission congregations, etc., may be delegated to a field representative for this commission. 2012 Convention Section D – Resolutions Page D-36 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 32 33 34 35 36 37 38 39 40 41 42 43 44 45 46 47 48 49 50 51 52 53 54 55 56 57 58 c. Salaries: The Commission on Mission Services shall submit to the District Board of Directors recommendations to set and adequately update the scale of salaries, equipment allowance, and mileage payments for the missionaries and other mission church workers of the District. d. Report to the convention: In presenting its report to the District, the Commission on Mission Services shall list the membership statistics of the subsidized congregations and parishes, losses and gains, funds raised by these congregations for work at home and at large, indebtedness, amount of subsidy received, the year when subsidies were begun, as well as other data, which will give the convention a comprehensive picture of their respective missions. e. Synodical Membership: The Commission on Mission Services shall urge every newly-organized congregation to become a member of the Synod as soon as possible. A copy of the tentative draft of the constitution and bylaws of a congregation about to organize shall be submitted to the Congregational Constitutions and District Handbook Committee for review and appropriate action. f. Educational Agencies: The Commission on Mission Services shall urge all congregations under its care to maintain adequate educational agencies for all age levels. g. Conferences: The Commission on Mission Services shall conduct conferences and workshops in the interest of missions as needed and when appropriate. h. Expansion: The Commission on Mission Services shall offer support and assistance to congregations and pastors interested in beginning mission stations or establishing daughter churches. i. Instructions to Subsidized congregations: The Commission on Mission Services shall notify the congregations under its care of the following duties and regulations governing them: i. Application for Subsidy: All applications for subsidy shall be made in writing by congregation resolution, where this is possible, to the Commission on Mission Services. At a station where there is no organized congregation as yet, the Commission shall estimate the amount of subsidy needed and recommend the same to the Board of Directors. Every subsidized congregation shall make an earnest effort to reduce its request for subsidy, so that it may become self-supporting as soon as possible. ii. Regular Reports: Subsidized congregations and their pastors shall be held to make regular reports, and such other special reports as the Commission may deem necessary, to the Commission on Mission Services. This is to be done promptly on forms provided for this purpose and as required by the Commission. The regularity of these reports conditions the regularity of the subsidies. iii. Calling of Pastors: Vacant subsidized congregations shall seek the counsel of the District President and of the Commission on Mission Services when calling a new pastor. They should request the advice and presence of the District President or the field representative for the Commission on Mission Services at the meetings when calls are extended, or when considering calls which their pastors have received. If a congregation acts contrary to such advice without valid reason, subsidy may be withheld. When a pastor of a subsidized congregation has received a call, he shall immediately inform the Commission on Mission Services and the District President and seek their advice. iv. Repairs, Improvements, and Investments: Subsidized congregations intending to incur larger expenses not included in their annual budget shall first obtain the advice and approval of the Commission on Mission Services and/or the Board of Directors. v. Welfare and Retirement Plans: All subsidized congregations and their pastors ordained and teachers commissioned ministers shall be required to join Synod’s Concordia Retirement, Disability and Survivor, and Health Plans. Premiums are to be included in the congregation’s budget. 8.02 Subcommittees 2012 Convention Section D – Resolutions Page D-37 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 32 33 34 35 36 37 38 39 40 41 42 43 44 45 46 47 48 49 50 51 52 53 54 55 The Commission, with the approval of the Board of Directors, may appoint committees to explore each area of its concerns, e.g., small, rural, dual parish ministry, campus ministry, institutional ministry, town and country, social ministry, and world relief. IX. FINANCES THE COMMISSION ON FINANCE AND MANAGEMENT 9.01 Duties: The Commission on Finance and Management shall: a. Be responsible for the management of all fiscal and financial affairs of the District; b. Have as members the Treasurer and Financial Secretary and three other members with financial expertise as appointed by the Board of Directors. c. Provide a Budget Committee made up of the Treasurer, the Financial Secretary, and one member of each Commission of the Board to receive, review, and submit a proposed budget from all spending commissions of the District; d. Recommend to the Board of Directors a balanced budget. A balanced budget is one in which budgeted income minus budgeted expenditures plus unrestricted net assets, not including investment in plant, is greater than zero. A balanced budget is based on the mission commitments of the District congregations plus other income and on the spending request of all departments and agencies of the District; e. Study the finances of the District on the basis of reports prepared by District officers and constantly look for ways and means to improve the financial performance of the District; f. Keep the congregations of the District informed of the financial status of the District through the use of official news publications of the District and other means of communications. X. STEWARDSHIP THE COMMISSION ON STEWARDSHIP SERVICES Theological Principle: “I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that you present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God, which is your reasonable service.” (Romans 12:1 NKJV) Christian stewardship is managing all God’s resources which have been entrusted to us in such a way as to accomplish God’s purpose with them. It is the recognition and the fulfillment of personal privilege and responsibility for the managing of the whole life in accordance with the will of God. 10.01 Objectives Christian stewardship is an attitude which sees all of one’s life as a sacred trust to be used in the Master’s business. Therefore, objectives of the Commission on Stewardship Services are as follows: a. To help the people of God understand that stewardship originates and centers in His actions and therefore stewardship centers on the cross and our total response to Christ. 2012 Convention Section D – Resolutions Page D-38 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 32 33 34 35 36 37 38 39 40 41 42 43 44 45 46 47 48 49 50 51 52 53 54 55 56 57 58 59 60 b. To help the people of God to be motivated, to make personal commitments regarding the use of their time, talents, and resources in every part of their life in order to fulfill God’s purpose for their existence on earth. c. To help the people of God to understand how they, through cooperative action with their fellow believers, can carry out the Great Commission of the Church. d. To help the people of God, comprehend why He blesses them with material resources and the ways in which these blessings might be shared with others. 10.02 Functions The functions of the Commission on Stewardship will be: a. Equip the leaders, the pastors, and the members of the congregations of the Central Illinois District in the principles and practices of the total stewardship life on a year-round basis. b. Guide the leaders, the pastors and the members of the congregations of the Central Illinois District to a greater appreciation of the privileges and responsibilities of Church membership. c. Offer training and develop skills of the leaders, pastors, and members of the congregations of the Central Illinois District for more effective stewardship ministry. d. Provide encouragement and challenge to professional church workers as they serve as examples of committed stewards of God. e. Promote the recruitment of professional church workers. f. Assist the leaders, the pastors, and the members of the Central Illinois District as they continue to grow in their attitudes and skills in the area of stewardship through Bible study, workshops, seminars, conferences, etc. g. Assist the leaders, the pastors, and the members of the congregations of the Central Illinois District to gain a greater understanding and appreciation of their worldwide mission and ministry for Christ through the Synod, and thereby grow in its support. h. Assist the leaders, the pastors, and the members of the congregations of the Central Illinois District to grow in the grace of Christian sacrificial giving. i. Provide counsel and materials for the congregations as they endeavor to enlist their members’ time, talents and treasures for Kingdom service in and through the congregation. j. Study and evaluate contemporary trends in Christian stewardship and share these studies with pastors and leaders of the congregations of the Central Illinois District. k. Plan and prepare stewardship programs which will offer helpful suggestions to pastors and elders of the congregations of the Central Illinois District. l. Counsel with circuits and congregations of the Central Illinois District in the use of stewardship programs and materials. m. Cooperate with those district departments which offer specific programs and services for the purpose of coordinating these programs and services into an overall program. 10.03 Duties It will be the duty of each member of the Commission on Stewardship Services to: a. Faithfully attend the Commission on Stewardship Services meetings. 2012 Convention Section D – Resolutions Page D-39 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 32 33 34 35 36 37 38 39 40 41 42 43 44 45 46 47 48 49 50 51 52 53 54 55 56 b. Participate in the discussion and decision-making process of the commission. c. Accept special assignments from time to time that may be required to carry out the commission’s functions more effectively. d. Represent the Commission on Stewardship Services in a positive manner and to set an example of the spirit of total Christian stewardship in his life and attitudes. e. Pray that the Lord of the Church will bless the stewardship efforts of His stewards. 10.04 Student Aid The Commission on Stewardship with the approval of the Board of Directors shall appoint a Committee on Student Aid which shall receive all applications for financial assistance from students preparing for service in the church and shall make recommendations to the Board of Directors through the Commission on Stewardship. Each year the Committee shall give adequate publicity to the Student Aid Fund in an official District news publication. The committee shall be guided by the following provisions: a. Eligibility: Communicant members of a congregation of The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod in the Central Illinois District who are students or prospective students enrolled at synodical colleges, universities, or seminaries with the intent of preparing themselves for full-time work in the church are eligible. b. Applications: Application forms are to be obtained from the school in which the student is enrolled. The forms are to be sent to the school, not to the Central Illinois District office; the colleges, universities, or seminaries will forward the forms to the District by June 15. c. Nature of Support: All financial assistance shall be in the form of student grants. The amount of each grant shall be ratified by the Board of Directors. Financial assistance shall be determined on the basis of need determined by the accepted practice of the respective school. Grants shall be made only on an annual basis. If support is needed and desired for more than one year, an application shall be submitted prior to each new school year. Grants to students shall be sent only to the person in charge of such funds at the respective school. d. District Aid: Student grants shall be made available primarily to students who have completed high school and are enrolled in colleges and seminaries for studies leading to synodical certification. e. In the event a student who has received a student grant determines not to pursue studies leading to professional church service, it is understood that the recipient has a moral obligation to repay the grant. 10.05 Subcommittees The Commission, with the approval of the Board of Directors, may appoint committees to assist in its various areas of activity. XI. COMMUNICATION SERVICES 11.01 The Communications Committee a. Membership: The Communications Committee, appointed by the Board of Directors, shall consist of at least five members: one pastor ordained minister, one teacher or DCE, one layman, one member-at-large who may be acquainted with electronic and/or print media, and one editor. The editor shall be appointed for a three-year term. The chairman of the committee shall be appointed by the Board of Directors. 2012 Convention Section D – Resolutions Page D-40 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 32 33 34 35 36 37 38 39 40 41 42 43 44 45 46 47 48 49 50 51 52 53 54 55 56 b. Area Representatives: The Communications Committee shall select one representative, a layman if possible, from each circuit to assist the committee in the publicity work in that circuit. Additional area representatives may be selected as the committee deems necessary. 11.02 Duties a. The Communications Committee shall be responsible for all aspects of communication of District happenings. b. The editor shall be responsible for the official District news publication. c. The Communications Committee shall handle the publicity of all events of District-wide importance, such as the District convention, conferences, special rallies, and the like. The committee shall be responsible for the publishing of a daily summary of business and events of the District convention. d. The committee shall serve as a clearing house for all publicity in the District. To this end, all pastors shall be encouraged to keep this committee informed on what is being done in their locality in this respect, and pastors should feel free to call upon this committee for counsel in promoting local publicity. Likewise, the Board of Directors, the officers and staff, and all commissions and committees of the District shall in a timely manner notify the Communications Committee of all newsworthy items. e. The committee may issue a digest of District news, releases from Synod’s Board for Communication Services, and such other publicity materials that are being produced for the purpose of bringing our church to the attention of the public. This shall be sent to all pastors, professors, and teachers of the District. f. The committee shall promptly answer attacks or unfavorable comments made by the press, radio, or television concerning the church; when feasible this shall be done after consultation with the appropriate District officials. g. The committee shall promote articles and broadcasts that will publicize the position of the District or the Synod on matters currently controversial or directly affecting the attitude of many of our own people. h. The committee shall cooperate with the communication services of Synod and of neighboring districts by furnishing them with District news for possible nation-wide distribution and by supplying such other information and reports as may be found advisable. i. The committee shall send to the District Archivist for possible inclusion in the archives such material, photographs, and the like which it deems no longer necessary to retain in its own files. XII. SPECIAL MINISTRIES 12.01 The Archivist a. The Board of Directors shall appoint a District Archivist. The District President may appoint an Assistant Archivist. b. Duties i. The Archivist shall compile the history of the District in all phases of its work, such as organization, missions, educational agencies, young people’s work, finances, etc., as well as the history of the individual local congregations and their interrelations. ii. He shall preserve copies of all the Proceedings of District conventions, records of all boards, committees, and officers, reports and periodicals, minutes of all pastors’ and teachers’ conferences 2012 Convention Section D – Resolutions Page D-41 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 32 33 34 35 36 37 38 39 40 41 42 43 44 45 46 47 48 49 and circuit meetings, when no longer in use, and any documents of historical value, such as letters, printed anniversary booklets, parish papers, newspaper clippings, etc. iii. He shall index all such records, books, and documents, and keep them in the archives of the District. iv. Whenever an officer, committee, or conference no longer has need of any records, they shall be placed into the care of the archivist. v. He shall inform himself, and be kept informed, of any change in the secretaryship of the various conferences, so that he may know where, at any time, to locate the minutes of the individual conferences. vi. All expenses incurred by the work of the archivist shall be defrayed from the District treasury. XIII AMENDMENTS TO BYLAWS 13.01 How Made Amendments to the Bylaws may be made, provided they are: a. not contrary to the Constitution and Bylaws of the Synod; b. submitted to the Commission on Constitutional Matters of the Synod for review and prior approval (Amendments not approved prior to the convention shall not take effect until approved by the commission.); c. presented in writing to a convention of the District; d. adopted by the affirmative vote of a majority of the delegates present and voting at such a convention. Resolution 15-01-10 To Respectfully Decline Overture 15-01-02 Re: Overture 15-01-02 WHEREAS, The present theme of The Lutheran Church – Missouri Synod, “Witness, Mercy, and Life Together” seems to be all encompassing, and has adequately given the Synod biblical and confessional direction; and WHEREAS, the suggested emphases might considered a bit too narrowly focused; therefore be it Resolved, That Overture 15-01-02 be respectfully declined. 2012 Convention Section D – Resolutions Page D-42 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 32 33 34 35 36 37 38 39 40 41 42 43 44 45 46 47 48 OVERTURES – CID Floor Committee OVERTURE 15-01-01 To Commend Deaconess Linda Schaefer upon Her Retirement WHEREAS, Deaconess Linda Schaefer has worked faithfully for 44 years (the longest ever for any District staff) for the Central Illinois District; and WHEREAS, She retired last August 2014; therefore be it Resolved, That we say to Deaconess Linda Schaefer, “Well done, good and faithful servant” (Matt 25:21); and be it further Resolved, That the Central Illinois District in convention thank and commend her for her faithful years of work by directing the District President to present her a special gift of thanks; and be it finally Resolved, That this convention give thanks to God for this faithful servant of the Lord and praise Him by rising and singing: Praise God, from whom all blessings flow; Praise Him, all creatures here below; Praise Him above, ye heavenly host: Praise Father, Son, and Holy Ghost. Amen. CID Mission Commission CID Board of Directors OVERTURE 15-01-02 To Suggest the Mission and Ministry Emphasis for Synod Resolved, That the following possible emphases be submitted to the Synodical Convention for consideration for the LCMS' next triennium: 1. To support and encourage rural and small town ministry. 2. To support and encourage campus ministry. 3. To support and encourage our parochial schools. Mattoon Circuit Forum 2012 Convention Section E – Overtures Page E-1 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 32 33 34 35 36 37 38 39 40 41 42 43 44 45 46 47 OVERTURE 15-01-03 To Encourage Congregations to Offer Regular Adult Confirmation Classes, Practice Friendship Sundays, and Build and Maintain Congregational Web Sites WHEREAS, God desires that all be saved and come to the knowledge of the truth (1 Timothy 2:4); and WHEREAS, Our Lord has given to all His children the opportunity and responsibility to spread the Gospel, declaring the praises of Him who has called us out of darkness into His marvelous light (1Peter 2:9); and WHEREAS, Unchurched and unsaved people abound in the communities of the Central Illinois District; therefore be it Resolved, That the congregations of the CID be encouraged to establish specific days for Adult Instruction Classes, host Friendship Sundays, build and maintain congregational web sites and make use of Evangelical District Resources. CID Evangelism Commission CID Board of Directors OVERTURE 15-01-04 To Amend Synod Bylaw 3.9.2.2.3 Concerning the Commission on Constitutional Matters Resolved, That the Central Illinois District of The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod submit the following overture to the 2016 convention of the Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod. WHEREAS, Bylaw 3.9.2.2.3 in the 2013 Handbook of The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod states: The Commission on Constitutional Matters shall examine the articles of incorporation, bylaws, and policy manuals of every agency of the Synod to ascertain whether they are in harmony with the Constitution, Bylaws, and resolutions of the Synod. (a) Agencies intending to make amendments to articles of incorporation or bylaws shall make such intentions known and receive approval from the commission in advance. (b) The commission shall maintain a file of the articles of incorporation bylaws, and policy manuals of all agencies of the Synod. and WHEREAS, Bylaw 1.2.1 (a) (1) in the 2013 Handbook of The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod states: “Agencies include each board, commission, council, seminary, university, college, district, Concordia Plan Services, and each synodwide corporate entity”; and 2012 Convention Section E – Overtures Page E-2 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 32 33 34 35 36 37 38 39 40 41 42 43 44 45 46 47 WHEREAS, Districts amend their articles of incorporation and bylaws in conventions, at which the Synod Commission on Constitutional Matters (CCM) is not present, and therefore the CCM cannot give “approval … in advance” for any changes in wording of articles of incorporation or bylaws which might be made through amendments from the floor at such conventions, and WHEREAS, The parliamentarian at the 2007 convention of the Synod ruled that, according to Synod’s bylaws, amendments from the floor could not be debated unless they had first been examined by the CCM, in effect allowing the CCM to kill any amendments simply by failing to examine them, and WHEREAS, By such a reading, Bylaw 3.9.2.2.3 would rule out all amendments from the floor of any district convention, thus robbing the districts of the insights of the delegates who are not on floor committees, even prohibiting districts from voting on their own bylaws, if their floor committees failed to provide the CCM with advance copies of their proposed changes, or if the CCM for any reason fails to approve them before the convention; therefore be it Resolved, That Synod Bylaw 3.9.2.2.3 be amended to read as follows: The Commission on Constitutional Matters shall examine the articles of incorporation, bylaws, and policy manuals of every agency of the Synod to ascertain whether they are in harmony with the Constitution, Bylaws, and resolutions of the Synod. (a) Agencies intending to make amendments to articles of incorporation or bylaws shall make such intentions known and receive approval from submit their proposed amendments to the commission in advance for review. (b) The commission shall examine the proposed wording of all amendments received from these agencies and report their findings to the submitting agency, including suggestions for any corrections which the commission deems to be necessary. (c) After agencies amend their articles of incorporation or bylaws, they shall submit them to the commission for similar review. (d) The commission shall maintain a file of the articles of incorporation bylaws, and policy manuals of all agencies of the Synod. Zion Evangelical Lutheran Church, Taylor Ridge, Ill. Adopted March 10, 2015 _Josh Bieri_, secretary _Mark R. Eddy_, pastor OVERTURE 15-01-05 To Re-affirm the God-given Form of Marriage WHEREAS, God instituted marriage as the union of a man and a woman for the procreation of children and mutual help, companionship, and support (Genesis 1:26-28; 2:18 & 21-25); and WHEREAS, the Lord Jesus and His apostle St. Paul re-affirmed God’s intent for marriage, as stated in Matthew 19:4-6 & 9 (see also Mark 10:6-12) and Ephesians 5:28-33; and 2012 Convention Section E – Overtures Page E-3 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 32 33 34 35 36 37 38 39 40 41 42 43 44 45 46 WHEREAS, the God-given way to procreate children is through the sexual union of a male husband and his female wife, in which the husband releases sperm to fertilize the wife’s egg, making the husband the resultant child’s father and the wife the child’s mother; and WHEREAS, God prohibits all sexual intercourse outside of the marriage of a husband and his own wife (1 Cor. 6:9f; 1 Tim. 1:9-10), with His prohibitions including: adultery with another person’s spouse (Ex. 20:14; Lev. 20:10; Deut. 22:22-23; 1 Cor. 6:9f), incest (Lev. 20:11-12, 14, 17, 19-21), homosexual activity (Lev. 20:13; Rom. 1:26-27; 1 Cor. 6:9f; 1 Tim. 1:9-10), bestiality (Lev. 20:15-16), and prostitution (Lev. 19:29; Deut. 23:17), prescribing the death penalty for many of these offenses (Lev. 20:10-16, see also Rom. 1:32), also prescribing that if an unmarried man and woman have intercourse, they be compelled to marry (Deut. 22:28-29); and WHEREAS, in 2014 A.D. the State of Illinois changed its definition of marriage to include two persons of the same sex; and WHEREAS, homosexual couples cannot fulfill all the responsibilities of marriage, because they cannot conceive children together; and they cannot engage in true sexual intercourse as a husband and his wife become “one flesh;” and WHEREAS, the 2011 A.D. “Illinois Religious Freedom Protection and Civil Union Act” stated: “Nothing in this Act shall interfere with or regulate the religious practice of any religious body.” (Section 15); and WHEREAS, St. Paul taught us: “Let every person subject to the governing authorities. For there is no authority except from God, and those that exist have been instituted by God” (Rom. 13:1), in agreement with our Lord’s testimony to Pontius Pilate, “You would have no authority over me at all unless it had been given you from above” (John 19:11), and St. Peter stated: “We must obey God rather than men” (Acts 5:29); and WHEREAS, Illinois law in this matter “calls evil good,” by honoring actions which God calls capital crimes, and “calls good evil,” by considering those who disagree with this law to be guilty of “discrimination,” in spite of God’s condemnation: “Woe to those who call evil good and good evil, who put darkness for light and light for darkness” (Isaiah 5:20, see also Malachi 2:17); therefore be it Resolved, That the Central Illinois District of the Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod re-affirm all that God’s word says about marriage, sexual activity, and child rearing; and be it further Resolved, That the Central Illinois District of the Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod publicly state that the apostle’s statement: “We must obey God rather than men” (Acts 5:29), applies to all people at all times, not only to Christian pastors in divine services; and be it further Resolved, That the secretary of the Central Illinois District of the Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod be instructed to forward this Resolution to the Governor and legislators of the State of Illinois, and the Presidents of the Northern and Southern Illinois Districts of the Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod; and be it further 2012 Convention Section E – Overtures Page E-4 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 32 33 34 35 36 37 38 39 40 41 42 43 44 45 46 47 Resolved, That the members of the Central Illinois District of the Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod be encouraged to contact their representatives and to work for the restoration of the biblically and biologically correct definition of marriage and to oppose any government actions which deny religious freedoms to the residents of this State; and be it finally Resolved, That the members of the Central Illinois District of the Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod be encouraged to pray to our loving and merciful God, 1) that He would move all of His people to “speak the truth in love” (Eph. 4:15) to our neighbors, both explaining the evils of sin and offering the blessings which God provides by grace, 2) that for Christ’s sake He would forgive all who repent of their sexual sins, including couples engaging in sexual activity without being married to each other as well as those who commit homosexual acts, and 3) that by His Spirit’s working through His Word, God would empower His people to “lead a sexually pure and decent life in what we say and do, and husband and wife love and honor each other” (Luther’s Small Catechism, sixth commandment), always showing love by fulfilling God’s laws (Rom. 13:8-10), overcoming evil with good (Rom. 12:21), setting good examples for our neighbors of all ages and religions, and thus being agents of God’s blessings to our state, nation, and world. Zion Evangelical Lutheran Church, Taylor Ridge, Ill. Adopted March 10, 2015 _Josh Bieri_, secretary _Mark R. Eddy_, pastor OVERTURE 15-01-06 To Memorialize the Synod as Regards the Licensed Lay Deacon WHEREAS, the LC–MS in Convention in 2013 adopted Resolution 4-06A, which directed the following: Resolved, That in faithfulness to God’s Word and Article XIV of the Augsburg Confession regarding the Office of the Holy Ministry, the President of Synod would direct the CTCR to develop resources for use on the congregational, district, and Synod levels concerning this issue; and be it further Resolved, That the President of the Synod, who has the responsibility “to promote and maintain unity of doctrine and practice in all the districts of the Synod” (Constitution, Art. XI B 3), be encouraged to use all means at his disposal to promote study and discussion of this vital issue; and be it further 2012 Convention Section E – Overtures Page E-5 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 32 33 34 35 36 37 38 39 40 41 42 43 44 45 46 Resolved, That the President of the Synod establish a task force consisting of members from the Commission on Theology and Church Relations, the Council of Presidents, the Praesidium, and seminary faculties to develop a plan anchored in the Word, in consultation with licensed lay deacons and those who supervise and are served by them, to resolve questions about the service of licensed lay deacons serving congregations of The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod with the Word and Sacraments of Christ; and be it finally Resolved, That the plan and its proposed implementation be reported to the Synod one year before the 2016 convention; WHEREAS, the theological basis of Resolution 4-06A remains Article XIV of the Augsburg Confession which states: “Our churches teach that no one should publicly teach in the Church, or administer the Sacraments, without a rightly ordered call”; and Article V of the same which states: “So that we may obtain this faith, the ministry of teaching the Gospel and administering the Sacraments was instituted. Through the Word and Sacraments, as through instruments, the Holy Spirit is given (John 20:22)”; WHEREAS, the Central Illinois District of the Lutheran Church–Missouri Synod in convention in 2012 passed a resolution “To Require Uniformity of Practice With Regard to Word and Sacrament Ministry” which expressed our regret with the current practice within the LC–MS of “men who are conducting Word and Sacrament ministry without being publicly called to, and placed in, the office of the ministry”; WHEREAS, in that same resolution the Central Illinois District also memorialized the Synod in Convention “to direct the Council of Presidents to develop a plan and lay out procedures: “A) So that all men who are currently engaged in Word and Sacrament ministry without being publicly called to, and placed in, the office of the ministry may either be enrolled in the SMP program or cease from all forms of Word and Sacrament ministry by the end of 2019, and B) So that all current Synod and District tracks, programs, licensing procedures etc. which train men for Word and Sacrament ministry without benefit of being publicly called to, and placed in, the office of the ministry can be phased out in favor of SMP by the end of 2019...”; WHEREAS, the Task Force established by the 2013 Synod in Convention has been doing its work as directed, and based on updates posted to the Convention update webpage dedicated to Resolution 406A (http://www.lcms.org/convention/taskforceupdates/resolution-4-06A) is planning to distribute its report in hard copy and electronically to each member of the Synod; WHEREAS, the task force intends for a Synod-wide discussion of its report to take place prior to the 2016 Synod Convention; and 2012 Convention Section E – Overtures Page E-6 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 32 33 34 35 36 37 38 39 40 41 42 43 44 45 46 WHEREAS, the Scriptural and Confessional basis of the 2013 Central Illinois District Convention’s resolution has not changed, as the Word of God is unchangeable, “Heaven and earth will pass away, but my words will not pass away” (Luke 21:33); therefore be it Resolved, That the Central Illinois District thank the members of the Resolution 4-06A Task Force for their work in studying the ongoing challenge of men who are conducting Word and Sacrament ministry without being publicly called to, and placed in, the office of the ministry; and be it further Resolved, That the Central Illinois District thank the men currently serving as Licensed Lay Deacons for their service to Christ’s Church for the sake of the Gospel, and that the Chaplain of the convention lead us in prayer that our Lord would lead these men to seek ordination according to His good and gracious will; and be it further Resolved, That the Central Illinois District memorialize the Synod in convention to direct the Council of Presidents to enact the following plan to return the Synod to a faithful practice of her confession: 1. All the Districts of the Synod shall immediately discontinue the licensing of lay deacons (1989 Res. 3-05B). 2. All men currently engaged in Word and Sacrament ministry without being publicly called to, and placed in, the office of the ministry will be enrolled in either a residential program at one of our two seminaries by the end of 2019 or in the Specific Ministry Pastor (SMP) program, or will cease all forms of Word and Sacrament ministry within that same time frame. An extension of the above deadline for those currently licensed can be granted by the appropriate District President in extreme circumstance, upon consultation with and approval of the President of the Synod. 3. All the current Synod and District tracks, programs, licensing procedures and the like which train men for Word and Sacrament ministry without benefit of being publicly called to, and placed in, the office of the ministry will be discontinued as soon as possible, but no later than the end of 2019, in favor of either the residential programs at our two seminaries or the SMP program. 4. The Districts in which men currently serve as Licensed Lay Deacons will ensure that these men be provided reasonable assistance in pursuing ordination or finding an alternative vocation. Good Shepherd Lutheran Church Sherman, IL 2012 Convention Section E – Overtures Page E-7 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 32 33 34 35 36 37 38 39 40 41 42 43 44 45 46 OVERTURE 15-01-07 To Appeal to the Synod in a Matter of Doctrinal Discipline WHEREAS, an ordained rostered LCMS pastor publicly has taught false doctrine; and WHEREAS, charges were properly filed with his district president, and Whereas, after a hearing his district president took no action and the pastor continues to publicly teach the false doctrine; and WHEREAS, the LCMS Bylaws appears to have no appeal process when a district president takes no action; therefore be it Resolved, that the CID memorialize the LCMS in the 2016 convention to change the bylaws to allow an appeal process when a district president fails to act on false doctrine; and finally be it Resolved, that the CID memorialize the LCMS in the 2016 convention to charge the Synodical President to investigate this recent matter and take appropriate action in keeping with the Scripture, Lutheran Confessions, and LCMS constitution and bylaws. Lincoln Circuit Forum OVERTURE 15-01-08 To Call the Rev. Dr. Matthew Becker to Repentance, Implore the Rev. Paul Linnemann to Exercise Ecclesiastical Supervision, and Thank and Encourage President Matthew Harrison Rationale At the recent North Dakota District Convention, Synod President Matthew Harrison was questioned about the status of the Rev. Dr. Matthew Becker, a rostered and ordained member of the Synod and a professor at Valparaiso University. President Harrison reported to that convention that the results of a complaint filed against Dr. Becker have left him remaining in good standing as a member of the Synod. This was confirmed by Dr. Becker: "The matter of the case against my teaching was terminated by three LCMS circuit counselors from the Great Northwest (whose identities are unknown to me), who acted at the behest of the NW District President. After reviewing all of the available evidence, they concluded that it is perfectly acceptable for an LCMS pastor to make a public argument in favor of the ordination of women to the pastoral office and that such a public argument is not grounds for expulsion from the roster of pastors in the LCMS". (http://www.alpb.org/forum/index.php?topic=5768.0 — accessed 1-30-2015) Some days later, President Harrison posted the following to the Witness, Mercy and Life Together blog on the Synod's website, 2012 Convention Section E – Overtures Page E-8 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 32 33 34 35 36 37 38 39 40 41 42 43 44 45 46 "When a public teacher on the roster of Synod can without consequence publicly advocate the ordination of women (even participate vested in the installation of an ELCA clergy person), homosexuality, the errancy of the Bible, the historical-critical method, open communion, communion with the Reformed, evolution, and more, then the public confession of the Synod is meaningless. I am saying that if my Synod does not change its inability to call such a person to repentance and remove such a teacher where there is no repentance, then we are liars and our confession is meaningless. I do not want to belong to such a synod, much less lead it. I have no intention of walking away from my vocation. I shall rather use it and, by the grace of God, use all the energy I have to call this Synod to fidelity to correct this situation." (http://wmliblog.org/2015/01/regarding-a-recent-decision-of-a-panel-not-to-proceed-withcharges-regarding-a-public-false-teacher-in-the-lcms/ - accessed 1-30-2015) Dr. Becker filed an official dissent regarding the synod's practice of restricting the office of pastor only to men and from the synod's position of interpreting the first two chapters of Genesis to mean that God created the universe over the course of six twenty four hour days, and that the natural law of evolution must be rejected. The Commission on Theology and Church Relations responded to Dr. Becker's dissent which not only exposed his false teaching on those subjects, but also revealed his rejection of the inerrancy of the Holy Scriptures. The Commission wrote, "Dr. Becker's dissent does not provide a sufficient scriptural or confessional basis to support his claim that the doctrinal position of the Synod is in need of revision on the issue of the ordination of women to the pastoral office or on the issue of creation and evolution. The theological basis for the CTCR's determination is the evidence provided in Dr. Becker's essays that he is operating on the basis of an understanding of the authority and interpretation of Scripture that is at odds with the Lutheran Confessions (see, for example, the Preface to The Book of Concord; FC Ep Summary, 2; FC SD Summary, 9, 20; Ap XXIII, 71; Ap VII, 27; Ap XII, 106, etc.) and the scripturally and confessionally-based position of the Synod as set forth in the Brief Statement (see paragraphs 1-3) and A Statement of Scriptural and Confessional Principles (see especially "The Infallibility of Scripture" and "Historical Methods of Interpretation"). Statements such as the following in Dr. Becker's essays reflect a view of and approach to Scripture that are clearly incompatible with the Synod's doctrinal position on the authority and interpretation of Holy Scripture", (http://www.lems.org/Document.fdoc?src—lcm&id=1676 accessed 1-30-2015) The Commission quoted Dr. Becker and then responded, "Of course a "figurative" interpretation of Genesis 1-9 (not to mention the many other passages in Scripture that speak of God as creator, of the world as God's creation, and of the new creation) does entail a revision of the traditional "creationist" manner of articulating the doctrines of creation, anthropology, and sin, and many Christians are deeply uncomfortable with such a prospect. This "discomfort" is at least as great as the discomfort many 16th-Century Christians must have felt in view of the revision to traditional teaching that the Copernican Theory entailed. As then, however, so also now: such modification would not necessarily undermine an orthodox understanding of creation, human beings, sin, and grace. For example, scientific data about the reality of physical death in the animal and plant kingdoms prior to origin of human beings (e.g., fossils of animals that lived long before the origin of human 2012 Convention Section E – Overtures Page E-9 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 32 33 34 35 36 37 38 39 40 41 42 43 44 45 beings) must lead those who interpret the Bible in light of scientific knowledge to restate the nature of God's good creation prior to the advent of human sin (e.g., such a good creation must have included the reality of death prior to the existence of human beings) and the character of the historical origin of sin (e.g., the advent of sin is to be traced to the first hominids who disobeyed God's will but not necessarily to their having eaten from a tree in an actual place called the Garden of Eden several thousand years ago). (SLM, 12) Statements such as these by Dr. Becker speak for themselves in conveying his understanding of the authority and interpretation of the Scriptures. As noted above, this understanding is clearly incompatible with the Synod's doctrinal position on the authority and interpretation of Scripture. For this reason, the Commission affirms once again its determination that Dr. Becker has not provided sufficient basis for his claim that the position of the Synod is in need of revision, and expresses once again its conviction that Dr. Becker is in dissent from the position of the Synod not only on the specific issues of the ordination of women to the pastoral office and the issues of creation and evolution, but also on the more foundational position of the Synod on which these positions are based: namely, the authority, infallibility, and faithful interpretation of the Holy Scriptures themselves. The CTCR therefore appeals to Dr. Matthew Becker, by the mercies of God, to reconsider his dissent and to reexamine, on the basis of Scripture and the Lutheran Confessions, his positions on the authority of Scripture and the two issues concerning which he has expressed dissent, even as the Synod expects him to honor and uphold the doctrinal positions of the Synod." (http://www.lcros.org/Document.fdoc?sre=lcm&id=1676 - accessed 130-2015) While the CTCR appealed to Dr. Becker by the mercies of God to reconsider his positions on the basis of Scripture and the Lutheran Confessions, it is clear by President Harrison's blog post that he has not. In addition to those matters, Dr. Becker contends that the Lutheran Confessions themselves contain theological ambiguity and error, to wit, the Athanasian Creed. As stated by comments on his blog in discussion with two pastors of the Lutheran Church — Missouri Synod, "The Rev. BT Ball February 9, 2013 at 5:28PM Dr. Becker"Whoever desires to be saved must, above all, hold the catholic faith. Whoever does not keep it whole and undefiled will without doubt perish eternally...This is the catholic faith; whoever does not believe it faithfully and firmly cannot be saved." Do you confess that to be true or not? Pastor Benjamin Ball St. Paul, Hamel, IL Matthew L. Becker February 9, 2013 at 8:09PM Pr. Ball, The Athanasian Creed errs when it implies that one is saved by a mental work of believing this creed's humanly-devised dogmatic statements "faithfully and firmly." 2012 Convention Section E – Overtures Page E-10 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 32 33 34 35 36 37 38 39 40 41 42 43 44 45 No Eastern Orthodox Christian will accept all of the formulations within this historic western creed. Many statements in it need careful clarification. Its conclusion is simply incorrect. The Athanasian Creed muddles the gospel at precisely this point. Pr. H. R. February 9, 2013 at 8:45 PM Dr. Becker, Members of our Synod agree to accept the Athanasian Creed "without reservation" (Art. II of our Constitution). We are pretty up front about that and have been for a long time. Perhaps it came up at your ordination. If it didn't (for example, if you wrote your own ordination vows and didn't use the ones in the TLH or LW Agenda), it certainly did when you signed the Constitution. I understand that you have deeply held convictions that run contrary to this Confession of the faith. But I struggle to understand why you continue to put yourself forward as a representative of our Synod when you so clearly do not hold to our Confession on so many weighty issues. It is not as though you are struggling with one or two peripheral issues, unsure of where you stand, or sure the Synod has erred in its stance on life insurance or gambling. You just flat our [sic] deny what we require our ministers to swear to at their ordination. I'll give you this: it's bold. +HRC Matthew L. Becker February 9, 2013 at 10:35 PM HRC, I was ordained on July 14, 1989. In that service I was asked the following question, among several: Do you accept the three Ecumenical Creeds...as faithful testimonies to the truth of the Holy Scriptures, and do you reject all the errors which they condemn? I answered affirmatively. The three creeds (only one of which is truly ecumenical) are faithful testimonies to the truth of the Holy Scriptures, that is, the doctrinal truth of the Scriptures. I reject the errors that the three creeds condemn. They are faithful witnesses to the doctrinal truth of the Scriptures, but they are not without theological ambiguity and error. Our ordination vow is strictly limited to the doctrinal teaching of the Holy Scriptures, that is, the doctrine of the gospel and all its articles. 2012 Convention Section E – Overtures Page E-11 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 32 33 34 35 36 37 38 39 40 41 42 43 44 45 THAT doctrine of the gospel, the doctrine of faith, is contrary to the kind of legalistic approach to dogma and confessional writings that you and Pr. Ball and other LCMS pastors seem to be asserting. Pastors who serve churches of the Augsburg Confession are not bound to many items that are taught or asserted in the confessional writings. This includes the concluding paragraph of the Athanasian Creed. That paragraph, literally understood, is contrary to the doctrine of the gospel. Our quia vow is to teach in accordance with the doctrinal content of the Holy Scriptures, as that content is exhibited in the historic confessions. I continue to preach and teach in accordance with my ordination vow, and I ask God to help me." (http://matthewlbeeker.blogspot.com/2013/02/one-more-response-to-hrc.html - accessed 1-30-2015) Dr. Becker has stated regarding homosexuality, "I too affirm the authority of the Scriptures, but the seven biblical texts that are frequently cited on the issue of homosexuality are not directly pertinent to the 21 st-century discussion because some of them condemn specifically homosexual rape, deal with questions of "clean and unclean" that are not normative in the Christian community, do not take into account issues like "sexual orientation," and presuppose that all would agree with a particular interpretation of what "nature" teaches. Both heterosexual and homosexual persons are expected to express sexual intimacy within publicly accountable, lifelong, and monogamous relationships. This has long been the expectation for heterosexual couples, and therefore is an appropriate expectation for homosexual couples as well. I recognize that the unity of the church is based on one Lord, one faith, and one baptism, and that within this unity, faithful members may disagree on individual items of theology and Christian ethics." (http://gottesdienstonline.blogspot.com/2010/12/useful-discussion.html) accessed 1-30-2015 Synod Bylaw 4.4.5 states, "Each district president, in accordance with the Constitution of the Synod, shall supervise the doctrine, the life, and the official administration on the part of the ordained or commissioned ministers who are members through his district or are subject to his ecclesiastical supervision". As such, the President of the Northwest District of the LCMS, the Rev. Paul Linnemann, is charged with the ecclesiastical supervision of Dr. Becker. While Dr. Becker's public teaching, writing and dissent are publicly known, there is no public evidence that President Linnemann has exhorted Dr. Becker to repentance for his false doctrines. Rather as President Harrison stated in his blog post Dr. Becker is without consequence able to "publicly advocate the ordination of women (even participate vested in the installation of an ELCA clergy person), homosexuality, the errancy of the Bible, the historical-critical method, open communion,communion with the Reformed, evolution, and more." By not fulfilling his responsibility as ecclesiastical supervisor, President Linnemann is not 2012 Convention Section E – Overtures Page E-12 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 32 33 34 35 36 37 38 39 40 41 42 43 44 assisting the Synod at large with fulfilling its first objective which is to "Conserve and promote the unity of the true faith (Eph. 4:3-6; 1 Cor. 1:10), work through its official structure toward fellowship with other Christian church bodies, and provide a united defense against schism, sectarianism (Rom. 16:17), and heresy", (Article 111.1) but more importantly is not showing Christian love to Dr. Becker by calling a sinner to repentance. WHEREAS, The Rev. Dr. Matthew Becker publicly advocates the ordination of women and has participated vested in the installation of an ELCA clergy person, homosexuality, the errancy of the Bible, the historical-critical method, open communion, communion with the Reformed, evolution, and more; and WHEREAS, Dr. Becker is a member of the Northwest District of the LCMS under the ecclesiastical supervision of the Rev. Paul Linnemann; and WHEREAS, It is the President of the Synod's duty to see to it that all District Presidents "act in accordance with the Synod's Constitution, to admonish all who in any way depart from it, and, if such admonition is not heeded, to report such cases to the Synod", (Article XI.B.2); and WHEREAS, The President of the Synod "has and always shall have the power to advise, admonish, and reprove. He shall conscientiously use all means at his command to promote and maintain unity of doctrine and practice in all the districts of the Synod", (Article XI.B.3); and WHEREAS, We confess, "All this has been said regarding secret sins. But where the sin is quite public so that the judge and everybody know it, you can without any sin avoid him and let him go, because he has brought himself into disgrace, and you may also publicly testify concerning him. For when a matter is public in the light of day, there can be no slandering or false judging or testifying; as, when we now reprove the Pope with his doctrine, which is publicly set forth in books and proclaimed in all the world. For where the sin is public, the reproof also must be public, that every one may learn to guard against it." (Large Catechism, 8th Commandment, para.284); and WHEREAS, Our Lord Jesus Christ said, "I have not come to call the righteous, but sinners to repentance" (St. Luke 5:32); therefore, let it be Resolved, That the Central Illinois District of the LCMS call the Rev. Dr. Matthew Becker to repentance of his false and divisive doctrines and that this be communicated to him by the Central Illinois District President; and let it be further Resolved, That the Central Illinois District implore the Rev. Paul Linnemann, President of the Northwest District, to exercise ecclesiastical supervision of Dr. Becker, seek Dr. Becker's repentance for false teaching, and lacking such repentance, begin theprocess of Dr. Becker's expulsion from the Synod in accordance with the Synod'sConstitution and Bylaws, and that this be communicated to the Rev. Linnemann by the Central Illinois District President; and let it be further 2012 Convention Section E – Overtures Page E-13 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 32 33 34 35 36 37 38 39 40 41 42 43 44 45 46 47 Resolved, That the Central Illinois District encourage President Matthew Harrison to exhort President Linnemann to do his duty for the sake of our common confession of faith and our walking together as members of the Lutheran Church — Missouri Synod; and be it further Resolved, That the President of the Central Illinois District, on behalf of the Central Illinois District, thank President Matthew Harrison and commend him for his faithful leadership of the Synod, and give him such encouragement; and be it finally Resolved, That the Convention Chaplain lead the Convention in prayer for a godly resolution to these matters. Good Shepherd Lutheran Church Sherman IL Springfield East Circuit Forum Springfield West Circuit Forum OVERTURE 15-01-09 To Publicly Call Rev. Dr. Matthew Becker to Repentance WHEREAS, Holy Scripture warns, Matthew 7:15(ESV) Beware of false prophets, who come to you in sheep’s clothing but inwardly are ravenous wolves; and WHEREAS, Holy Scriptures warns, Romans 16:17-18(ESV) I appeal to you, brothers, to watch out for those who cause divisions and create obstacles contrary to the doctrine that you have been taught; avoid them. For such persons do not serve our Lord Christ, but their own appetites, and by smooth talk and flattery they deceive the hearts of the naïve; and WHEREAS, Holy Scripture warns, 2 Timothy 4:3-4(ESV) For the time is coming when people will not endure sound teaching, but having itching ears they will accumulate for themselves teachers to suit their own passions, and will turn away from listening to the truth and wander off into myths; and WHEREAS, Holy Scripture declares, 2 Timothy 3:16-17(ESV) All Scripture is breathed out by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness, that the man of God may be competent, equipped for every good work; and WHEREAS, the CCM has ruled, “While the filing of dissent does not constitute a case for removal, the member is required to teach and practice in accord with Synod’s stated confessional position during the dissent process. If the member fails to honor and uphold the stated confessional position of Synod during the dissent process, the member becomes subject to disciplinary action due both to the violation of the doctrinal position of Synod and the offense against the other members of Synod created by such failure (Constitution Art. XIII 1). In such case it is incumbent upon the ecclesiastical supervisor of the member to exercise disciplinary action against the member who fails to teach and act within Synod’s stated confessional position, whether apart from or during the dissent process (Bylaws 2.14.4; 2.15.4; 2.16.4);” and 2012 Convention Section E – Overtures Page E-14 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 32 33 34 35 36 37 38 39 40 41 42 43 44 45 46 WHEREAS, Rev. Dr. Matthew Becker has filed dissent yet continues to publicly teach and promote false doctrine including woman’s ordination, having published articles on his own blog, and on Daystar where he published an article titled “A Case for Female Pastors and Theologians” in which he states: “There is no legitimate biblical or dogmatic rationale for why the LCMS should now prohibit women from serving as theologians and pastors in the church.” (http://www.lcms.org/ccm/); and WHEREAS, Rev. Dr. Matthew Becker continues to publicly teach and promote false doctrine including, participating while vested in the installation of Charlene Rachuy Cox at Valparaiso (http://thebarebulb.com/2013/06/17/they-will-not-be-convinced/); and WHEREAS, Rev. Dr. Matthew Becker continues to publicly teach and promote false doctrine including, acceptance of homosexuality and homosexual marriage, having written on his blog Transverse Markings: One Theologian’s Notes titled “Further Sign of LCMS Times” (http://thedaystarjournal.com/the-scandal-of-the-lcms-mind/); and WHEREAS, Rev. Dr. Matthew Becker continues to publicly teach and promote false doctrine including, promoting a figurative interpretation of Genesis 1 and 2 stating in his post “The Scandal of the LCMS Mind”…”Scientific data about the reality of physical death in the animal and plant kingdoms prior to origin of human beings (e.g., fossils of animals that lived long before the origin of human beings) must lead those who interpret the Bible in light of scientific knowledge to restate the nature of God’s good creation prior to the advent of human sin (e.g., such a good creation must have included the reality of death prior to the existence of human beings) and the character of the historical origin of sin (e.g., the advent of sin is to be traced to the first hominids who disobeyed God’s will but not necessarily to their having eaten from a tree in an actual place called the Garden of Eden several thousand years).” (http://thedaystarjournal.com/the-scandal-of-the-lcms-mind/); and WHEREAS, Rev. Dr. Matthew Becker has stated that he has three goals for the LCMS all of which are contrary to the Scriptures and the positions of Synod: (http://matthewlbecker.blogspot.com/2013/10/what-is-he-trying-to-accomplish.html): 1. to encourage members within the synod to think differently about two issues, namely, (a) the synod’s understanding of Scripture that insists that only qualified men may serve as pastor in the synod; and (b) the synod’s understanding of Scripture that requires one to interpret the creation accounts in Genesis to be literal, historical descriptions of what God did in the not-toodistant past over the course of six actual 24-hr. days (“six-day creationism”); 2. to have the synod change its position that restricts the office of pastor only to men; 3. to have the synod reject “creationism” in favor of a more robust doctrine of creation, one that sets forth a theological understanding that better accords with the language and genre of these Genesis texts and that better accords with what people today know to be true and valid about the natural history of our planet; and WHEREAS, President Matt Harrison stated on Witness, Mercy, Life Together blog (http://wmltblog.org/2015/01/regarding-a-recent-decision-of-a-panel-not-to-proceed-withcharges-regarding-a-public-false-teacher-in-the-lcms/ ), 2012 Convention Section E – Overtures Page E-15 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 32 33 34 35 36 37 38 39 40 41 42 43 44 45 46 47 “When a public teacher on the roster of Synod can without consequence publicly advocate the ordination of women (even participate vested in the installation of an ELCA clergy person), homosexuality, the errancy of the Bible, the historical-critical method, open communion, communion with the Reformed, evolution, and more, then the public confession of the Synod is meaningless. I am saying that if my Synod does not change its inability to call such a person to repentance and remove such a teacher where there is no repentance, then we are liars and our confession is meaningless. I do not want to belong to such a synod, much less lead it. I have no intention of walking away from my vocation. I shall rather use it and, by the grace of God, use all the energy I have to call this Synod to fidelity to correct this situation;” therefore, be it Resolved, that Trinity Lutheran Church Roanoke, Illinois a member church of the Central Illinois District of the LCMS, encourage the Central Illinois District of the LCMS in convention to encourage the LCMS in convention to publicly call Rev. Dr. Matthew Becker to repent and recant or remove him from the clergy roster of Synod. Trinity, Roanoke, IL OVERTURE 12-01-10 To Study the Process for Expulsion of a Member of Synod for the Public Teaching of False Doctrine WHEREAS, the Synod’s bylaws have proven ineffective in expelling open and manifest heretics from our midst; and WHEREAS, Luther writes, “God’s people or holy Christians are recognized by the office of the keys exercised publicly. That is, as Christ decrees in Matthew 18 if a Christian sins, he should be reproved; and if he does not mend his ways, he should be bound in his sin and cast out” (AE 41:153); and WHEREAS, member congregations of the Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod should be able to call any rostered member of Synod with the confidence that they will perform their duties in accord with the Word of God and the Lutheran Confessions; be it therefore Resolved, that the Central Illinois District of the Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod memorialize the 2016 convention of the Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod to direct the President of Synod to appoint a Blue Ribbon Task Force comprised of one professor from each seminary, two district presidents, one parish pastor, one commissioned minister, and three laypersons (one of whom shall be an attorney) to study this problem and propose such amendments to the bylaws of Synod to the 2019 Synodical Convention as shall remedy the issue. Good Shepherd Lutheran Church Sherman, IL Springfield East Circuit Forum Springfield West Circuit Forum 2012 Convention Section E – Overtures Page E-16 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 32 33 34 35 36 37 38 39 40 41 42 43 44 45 46 47 OVERTURE 15-01-11 To Encourage Changes in the Synodical Dispute Resolution Procedures WHEREAS, the Rev. Dr. Matthew Becker, a clergy member on the official roster of the Lutheran Church Missouri Synod (LCMS) has recently been exonerated of false teaching by a dispute resolution team in the Pacific Northwest District of the LCMS; and WHEREAS, the Rev. Dr. Matthew Becker has publicly written, “Left unexamined are those contemporary theological arguments that take into account the possibility that a small percentage of human beings, like other beings in the animal world, have been created with a genetic predisposition toward homosexuality and that one could live as a faithful and authentic Christian with in a lifelong, committed homosexual union.” (Becker, Matthew The Creator’s Tapestry; Review Article, http://thedaystarjournal.com/the-creators-tapestry-review-article); and WHEREAS, the Rev. Dr. Matthew Becker has been publicly witnessed and photographed ordaining a woman into the office of the holy ministry for the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America, a church body with which the LCMS is not in fellowship (http://www.nwitimes.com/news/local/porter/valparaiso/new-pastor-installed-at-valparaisouniveristy/article_3c7957fe-61c1-5f4c-85a6-f5e681a76c5c.html); and WHEREAS, LCMS President Matthew Harrison has made the following statement: When a public teacher on the roster of Synod can without consequence publicly advocate the ordination of women (even participate vested in the installation of an ELCA clergy person), homosexuality, the errancy of the Bible, the historicalcritical method, open communion, communion with the Reformed, evolution, and more, then the public confession of the Synod is meaningless. I am saying that if my Synod does not change its inability to call such a person to repentance and remove such a teacher where there is no repentance, then we are liars and our confession is meaningless. I do not want to belong to such a synod, much less lead it. I have no intention of walking away from my vocation. I shall rather use it and, by the grace of God, use all the energy I have to call this Synod to fidelity to correct this situation. (http://wmltblog.org/2015/01/regarding-arecent-decision-of-a-panel-not-to-proceed-with-charges-regarding-a-publicfalse-teacher-in-the-lcms); and WHEREAS, Article III.1 – Objectives – of the Constitution of the LCMS says, “The Synod, under Scripture and the Lutheran Confessions, shall conserve and promote the unity of the true faith (Eph 4:3-6; 1 Cor.1:10), work through its official structure toward fellowship with other Christian church bodies, and provide a united defense against schism, sectarianism (Rom 16:17), and heresy; and WHEREAS, the current exoneration of Rev. Dr. Matthew Becker concerns public false teaching and open defense of doctrine that is contrary to Article II of the constitution of the LCMS; therefore be it Resolved, that Trinity Lutheran Church Roanoke, Illinois, a member church of the Central Illinois District of LCMS, encourage the Central Illinois District of the Lutheran Church Missouri Synod in 2012 Convention Section E – Overtures Page E-17 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 32 33 34 35 36 37 38 39 40 41 42 43 44 45 46 47 convention to encourage the 2016 Synodical Convention of Lutheran Church Missouri Synod to form a task force to examine the current by-laws governing the dispute resolution process of the LCMS; and be it finally Resolved, That the task force formed at the 2016 Synodical Convention report back to the 2019 Convention of the LCMS with recommended changes to the dispute resolution procedures of the LCMS that allow for clear biblical and confessional standards to deal in Christian love with those who openly teach contrary to Article II of the Lutheran Church Missouri Synod’s constitution. Trinity Lutheran Church Roanoke, IL OVERTURE 15-01-12 To Request the Commission on Theology and Church Relations to Draft Doctrinal Statements WHEREAS, There is sharp disagreement within The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod over a number of doctrinal matters; and WHEREAS, The Commission on Theology and Church Relations (CTCR) has the authority to submit Doctrinal Statements (as defined by LCMS Bylaw 1.6.2(b)) “to the Synod in convention for further consideration and possible adoption by majority vote” (LCMS Bylaw 1.6.2 (b) (4)); and WHEREAS, A District Convention may submit a proposal for the development of doctrinal statements to the CTCR (LCMS Bylaw 1.6.2 (b) (1)); therefore be it Resolved, That the Central Illinois District in Convention request the Commission on Theology and Church Relations to develop Doctrinal Statements on the following topics: • The Male-Only Pastorate; • The Six Days of Creation; • The Necessity of a Call and Ordination for the Exercise of the Functions of the Pastoral Office; and be it finally Resolved, That the Central Illinois District in Convention request the Commission on Theology and Church Relations to submit these doctrinal statements to the 2019 convention of The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod for further consideration and possible adoption pursuant to LCMS Bylaw 1.6.2(b)(4)ff. Good Shepherd Lutheran Church Sherman IL Springfield East Circuit Forum Springfield West Circuit Forum 2012 Convention Section E – Overtures Page E-18 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 OVERTURE 15-01-13 To Adopt Revised CID Handbook for 2015 WHEREAS, The Lutheran Church – Missouri Synod adopted changes to its constitution and bylaws at the 2013 Convention, which is cause for the Central Illinois District to change its Handbook; and WHEREAS, The Commission on Constitutional Matters made other changes and updates to the CID 2012 Handbook; therefore be it Resolved, That the Central Illinois District adopt the following as the CID Handbook for 2015 as it has been revised. 2012 Convention Section E – Overtures Page E-19 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 CENTRAL ILLINOIS DISTRICT HANDBOOK THE LUTHERAN CHURCH–MISSOURI SYNOD 1850 North Grand Avenue West Springfield, IL Revised August 2012 Revised in accord with CCM suggestions, May 2014 2012 Convention Section E – Overtures Page E-20 1 2 3 TABLE OF CONTENTS ARTICLES OF INCORPORATION ................................................................................................ iii 4 CONSTITUTION ............................................................................................................................... v 5 BYLAWS ........................................................................................................................................... 1 6 I. MEMBERSHIP ............................................................................................................................... 1 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 II. ADMINISTRATION ..................................................................................................................... 1 A. Officers, Boards, Commissions, Committees ........................................................................ 1 B. The President of the District ................................................................................................. 4 C. The Vice-Presidents of the District ....................................................................................... 5 D. The Secretary of the District ................................................................................................. 6 E. The Treasurer of the District................................................................................................. 6 F. The Financial Secretary of the District.................................................................................. 7 G. The Board of Directors of the District................................................................................... 8 H. Staff ................................................................................................................................... 10 I. Other Committees............................................................................................................... 12 J. Regulations Governing Nominations & Elections............................................................... 13 18 19 20 III. CIRCUIT OFFICIALS................................................................................................................ 17 A. The Circuit Counselors Visitors.......................................................................................... 17 B. The Circuit Lay-Delegate ................................................................................................... 18 21 IV. DISPUTE RESOLUTION ..........................................................................................................19 22 V. EVANGELISM............................................................................................................................ 19 23 VI. CONGREGATIONAL LIFE....................................................................................................... 19 24 VII. EDUCATION SERVICES ........................................................................................................ 20 25 VIII. MISSIONS............................................................................................................................... 21 26 IX. FINANCES................................................................................................................................. 22 27 28 X. STEWARDSHIP.......................................................................................................................... 23 Student Aid ...............................................................................................................................24 29 XI. COMMUNICATION SERVICES............................................................................................... 25 30 31 XII. SPECIAL MINISTRIES............................................................................................................ 26 The Archivist ........................................................................................................................... 26 32 XIII. AMENDMENTS TO BYLAWS ...............................................................................................27 33 2012 Convention Section E – Overtures Page E-21 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 32 33 34 35 36 37 38 39 40 41 42 43 44 45 46 ARTICLES OF INCORPORATION ARTICLE I NAME, DURATION, REGISTERED OFFICE AND AGENT 1. The name of the corporation shall be: The Central Illinois District of The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod, a not-for-profit corporation. 2. The period of duration of the corporation is perpetual. 3. The address of the registered office of the corporation is 1850 N. Grand Ave. West, Springfield, Illinois 62702-1626 4. The registered agent of the corporation is the Attorney of the Central Illinois District. ARTICLE II CONFESSIONS AND OBJECTIVES The objectives of this corporation shall be to unite in a corporate body for religious, educational, and benevolent purposes, the members of The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod residing within the bounds of the Central Illinois District, as now constituted, who accept the Scriptures of the Old and New Testaments as the written Word of God and the only rule and norm of faith and practice, and who remain true to, and acknowledge as a true exhibition of sound Christian doctrine, all the Symbolical Books of the Evangelical Lutheran Church as they are contained in the Book of Concord of 1580, to wit, the three Ecumenical Creeds (the Apostolic, The Nicene, and the Athanasian), the Unaltered Augsburg Confession, the Apology of the Augsburg Confession, the Smalcald Articles, Luther’s Large Catechism, Luther’s Small Catechism and the Formula of Concord, for the purposes of continuing and perpetuating the good work of disseminating the Gospel in accordance with the established doctrine of The Lutheran Church-Missouri Synod through religious, educational, and charitable means. ARTICLE III A. MEMBERSHIP General Members The membership of the District consists of all those members of The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod (congregations, ministers of religion—ordained and ministers of religion—commissioned, as defined by the Constitution and Bylaws of The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod) who have been received into the District at the time of joining the Synod, who have been transferred from another District, or who have been assigned to the District by the Synod. Termination of membership in the Synod terminates membership in the District. 2012 Convention Section E – Overtures Page E-22 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 B. Voting Members All organized congregations that have joined The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod and are within the bounds of the Central Illinois District as now or hereafter defined by the Synod hold voting membership. At the meetings of the District of the Synod every such congregation or multiple-congregation parish is entitled to two votes, one of which is to be cast by the pastor and the other by the lay delegate elected and confirmed by said congregation or multiple-congregation parish. These shall be the voting representatives. C. Advisory Members Advisory members only are those members of the Synod listed as advisory members in the Constitution of the Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod in Article V “Membership,” section B. “Advisory Members.” ARTICLE IV POWERS The District shall have legal powers to receive, acquire, hold, manage, control, sell, mortgage, lease or otherwise dispose of real and personal property and franchise as hereafter may be acquired by this corporation in the interest of its work. 2012 Convention Section E – Overtures Page E-23 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 CONSTITUTION OF THE LUTHERAN CHURCH—MISSOURI SYNOD CENTRAL ILLINOIS DISTRICT The Central Illinois District is a component part and division of The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod and is established by the Synod in order more effectively to achieve its objectives and carry on its activities. The Constitution of the Synod is also the Constitution of the Central Illinois District, as found and stated in the Handbook of The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod. The Bylaws of the Synod shall be primarily the Bylaws of the District. The District may adopt additional bylaws, regulations, and resolutions necessary or proper for its own administration or for effectively carrying on the work of the Synod. Such bylaws, regulations, and resolutions shall not conflict with the Constitution and Bylaws of the Synod. The District is the Synod itself performing the functions of the Synod. Resolutions of the Synod are binding on the District. The geographical boundaries are determined by the Synod. These boundaries may be altered by the Synod according to circumstances. 2012 Convention Section E – Overtures Page E-24 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 32 33 34 35 36 37 38 39 40 41 42 43 44 45 46 47 48 49 50 51 52 53 54 BYLAWS OF THE LUTHERAN CHURCH—MISSOURI SYNOD CENTRAL ILLINOIS DISTRICT I. MEMBERSHIP 1.01 Application and Reception The application for membership and the reception into membership shall be governed by the Bylaws of The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod. 1.02 Duties of Members Every member of the Synod shall, in accordance with his vocation, his ability, and the means at his command, diligently and earnestly promote the purposes of the Synod by word, deed, and adequate financial support. 1.03 Accrediting of Delegates A pastor of a voting congregation and the lay delegate of a voting congregation shall stand accredited and entitled to vote upon presenting to the Secretary at the opening of the convention the proper credentials signed by two of the congregation’s officers. If a pastor serves two or more congregations, these congregations shall be regarded as one parish and shall be entitled to only one lay vote (Synodical Bylaw 4.2.2 (a). II. ADMINISTRATION A. OFFICERS, BOARDS, COMMISSIONS, COMMITTEES 2.01 Officers The elective officers of the District shall be the following: a President, two Vice-Presidents, a Secretary, an Assistant Secretary, a Treasurer, a Financial Secretary, and a Circuit Counselor Visitor for each circuit. 2.02 Boards, Commissions, Committees The boards, commissions, and committees of the District to be elected or appointed shall be the following: a. Elected by the Delegate Convention of the District 1. A Board of Directors – subdivided by appointment as follows: A Commission on Mission Services A Commission on Evangelism Services A Commission on Congregational Life A Commission on Education Services A Commission on Stewardship Services A Commission on Finance and Management 2. A Congregational Constitutions and District Handbook Committee 2012 Convention Section E – Overtures Page E-25 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 32 33 34 35 36 37 38 39 40 41 42 43 44 45 46 47 48 49 50 51 52 53 54 55 56 57 58 3. A District Nominations Committee b. Appointed by the Board of Directors A committee on Communication Services A Social Ministry Committee An Auditing Committee An Archivist c. Appointed by the President A Ministerial Health Committee A Christian Legislative Concerns Committee A Committee on Architecture and Construction Assistance to Local Congregations (Explanation of Terms) The term “parish pastor” refers to the called pastors and associate or assistant pastors shepherding a congregation or congregations which hold voting membership in the District. The term “pastor” refers to a person who is on the Ministers of Religion-Ordained roster of the Synod, which includes, in addition to those named above, retired pastors, chaplains, and ordained ministers called to synodical institutions and Recognized Service Organizations. The term “parish teacher” refers to a person who is on the Ministers of Religion-Commissioned roster of the Synod and who is serving as a teacher or director of Christian education in a congregation or congregations which hold voting membership in the District. The term “teacher” refers to a person who is on the Ministers of Religion-Commissioned roster of the Synod, which includes others than those named above. The term “layman” refers to a voting lay member of a congregation which holds voting membership in the District. 2.03 Term of Office a. The term of office for all officers and members of boards, commissions, and committees, elected or appointed, shall be three years, unless otherwise specified. b. Newly elected officers and members of boards, commissions, and committees shall assume office at close of the convention. 2.04 Successive Terms a. The office of President of the District and of the two Vice-Presidents shall be limited to three consecutive terms. b. All other officers and members of boards, commissions, and committees shall be limited to two consecutive terms, except members of the Nominations Committee whose term of service is three years and who may not succeed themselves. c. Any officer or member of a board, commission, or committee, who is ineligible for re-election or reappointment, may be elected or appointed to any other position. He may become eligible again for election or appointment to the same office, board or committee after an interval of three or more years. 2.05 Vacancies a. Special provisions are indicated for vacancies occurring in the District Presidency. b. Vacancies that occur in the office of circuit counselor visitor between conventions shall be filled by appointment by the District President (Synodical Bylaw 5.2.2.1). 2012 Convention Section E – Overtures Page E-26 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 32 33 34 35 36 37 38 39 40 c. Any vacancy occurring in any other elective office, board, or committee shall be filled by appointment of the District President with the approval of the Board of Directors in the respective classification of pastor ordained minister, teacher or DCE, or layman. d. The member thus appointed shall serve out the term of the person he succeeds. If the un-expired term is less than 1-1/2 years, it shall not prevent his being elected for two successive terms thereafter. 2.06 How Offices are Filled The District offices shall be filled in the following manner in the year preceding the general Synodical convention: a. By election 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. The President of the District The Two Vice-Presidents The Secretary The Assistant Secretary The Treasurer The Financial Secretary The Board of Directors: four parish pastors, four laymen who are voting members of congregations of the District, two parish teachers or DCEs 8. The Circuit Counselors Visitors 9. Congregational Constitution and District Handbook Committee: two Ministers of Religion-Ordained (one to be a parish pastor), one layman (a lawyer) 10. District Nominations Committee: two parish pastors, two parish teachers or DCEs, two laymen who are voting members of congregations of the District. b. By Appointment 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. Committee on Communication Services: one Minister of Religion-Ordained, one Minister of ReligionCommissioned, one layman (TV-Radio-Newspaper), one editor Social Ministries Committee: two Ministers of Religion-Ordained, one Minister of ReligionCommissioned, two laymen Ministerial Health Committee: two pastors ordained ministers, one teacher or DCE, two laymen (one physician or psychiatrist, if possible) Archivist Christian Legislative Concerns Committee Committee on Architecture and Construction Assistance to local congregations 2012 Convention Section E – Overtures Page E-27 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 32 33 34 35 36 37 38 39 40 41 42 43 44 45 46 47 48 49 50 51 52 53 54 55 56 57 2.07 Sundry Regulations a. Every board, commission, and committee shall organize at the first meeting after its election or appointment to select a chairman, vice-chairman, and secretary, and shall conduct its business in accordance with accepted parliamentary rules. b. All officers, boards, committees, and personnel shall surrender all records and equipment in their custody to their successors at the expiration of their term of office. c. All board, commissions, and committees, including the Archivist, shall be accountable to the District for all their actions and shall make a full report on the activities to the District at each convention. B. THE PRESIDENT OF THE DISTRICT 2.08 Relation to President of Synod The District President by virtue of his office represents Synod in his respective territory. He shall therefore regularly report to the President of Synod (Synodical Bylaw 4.4.2). 2.09 Duties a. The District President, in accordance with the Constitution of the Synod (Article XII) and Bylaws of the Synod (section 4.4), shall supervise the doctrine, the life, and the official administration on the part of the pastors and the teachers of the District. Therefore, as often as possible, he shall attend the conferences of pastors and teachers, advise the congregations of the District as to the calling of pastors and teachers, give counsel, and respond to requests and inquiries. He may call upon the vice-presidents and the circuit counselors visitors to assist him (Synodical Bylaw 4.4.5). b. The District President, even without formal request therefore, may through the proper channels arrange for an official visit or an investigation when a controversy arises in a congregation or between two or more congregations of the District, or when there is evidence of a continuing unresolved problem in doctrine or practice. He shall ask for a full report on the case in order that he may have a clear understanding of the situation. If the District President authorizes anyone to represent him in such matters, his representative shall be accorded the same rights as the District President (Synodical Bylaw 4.4.6). c. The District President shall annually revise the official roster of Ministers of Religion-Ordained and Ministers of Religion-Commissioned for publication in the LUTHERAN ANNUAL and remove the names of those who have died, have severed their connections with the Synod, have been eliminated from the roster by the Council of Presidents, have resigned their status as Ministers of Religion-Ordained or Ministers of ReligionCommissioned in the Synod, or have in some way disqualified themselves for service in the church (Synodical Bylaws 4.4.7 and 4.4.8). d. The District President has the responsibility to see to it that the resolutions of the Synod and District are implemented. e. The District President shall make an official report to the District at its convention. f. At the sessions of the District, the President shall conduct the meetings according to the accepted parliamentary rules and in accordance with the Constitution and Bylaws of the Synod and the Rules and Regulations of the District. g. The District President shall be an ex-officio member of all commissions and committees of the District, except the Nominations Committee. As supervising officer of the District, he shall advise the Board of Directors and its various commissions and committees. h. The District President and the Secretary shall sign all legal documents and instruments. 2012 Convention Section E – Overtures Page E-28 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 32 33 34 35 36 37 38 39 40 41 42 43 44 45 46 47 48 49 50 51 52 53 54 55 56 57 58 i. The District President shall perform all additional duties which the District places upon him through its Bylaws, regulations, or special resolutions. 2.10 President – A Full-Time Executive a. The District President shall be a full-time executive. He shall not be in charge of a congregation or hold a chair at any educational institution, but may be called as an assistant pastor provided such services do not interfere with his official duties as President. b. A District President who, before he has reached the official (pension) retirement age, fails to be re-elected to this full-time office, or elects to resign his position because of infirmity, shall receive full monthly compensation for up to six (6) months or until the commencement of full-time employment or retirement benefits, if sooner. 2.11 If the President is Unable to Serve a. The duties and responsibilities of the Presidency shall be assumed by the First Vice-President as Acting President on a part-time basis whenever the Board of Directors determines that the District President is temporarily unable to serve because of prolonged illness or disability. b. In the event that the office of District President is permanently vacated on or less than 18 months prior to the next District convention, the First Vice-President shall assume the duties and responsibilities of the Presidency serve as Acting President on a part-time basis until the next regular District convention. He would be eligible to serve in three consecutive terms thereafter. c. In the event that the office of District President is permanently vacated more than 18 months prior to the next District convention, the First Vice-President shall serve on a full-time basis until the next regular District convention. d. In the event that the First Vice-President is unable to serve as Acting President assume the duties and responsibilities of the Presidency on a part-time basis, the Second Vice-President shall serve in such capacity. C. THE VICE-PRESIDENTS OF THE DISTRICT 2.12 Regional Vice-Presidents a. The District shall elect two Vice-Presidents, who shall be regional Vice-Presidents, that is, one of the VicePresidents shall at the time of the election be in the eastern region of the District, namely, the Altamont, Champaign, Danville, Decatur, Effingham, Iroquois, Mattoon, Shelby, Springfield East, or Springfield West Circuits; the other shall at the time of election be in the western region of the District, namely, the Bloomington North & South, Jacksonville, Lincoln, Peoria, Quincy, Rock Island, or Tazewell Circuits. b. If a regional Vice-President shall moves to the other out of the region within the District, he may continue to function as Vice-President until his term expires must vacate his office (Synodical Bylaw 4.3.3). 2.13 Relation to President The Vice-President shall, upon request of the President, or as may be provided by the District, advise, assist, or represent the President. 2.14 Ranking of Vice-Presidents The Vice-Presidents shall be ranked as First Vice-President and Second Vice-President in the manner prescribed by the Bylaws under procedure for election (see district Bylaw 2.37 and following). 2.15 Succession 2012 Convention Section E – Overtures Page E-29 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 32 33 34 35 36 37 38 39 a. The Vice-Presidents shall, in the order in which they have been ranked, perform the duties of the President in the event the President becomes incapacitated or the President’s office is vacated. b. A vacancy in the First Vice-Presidency shall be filled by advancing the Second Vice-President. The remaining A vacancy in the Second Vice Presidency shall then be filled by the President from the reserve list of nominations, that is from the nominees left after the previous election, according to the number of votes received, as long as the nominee resides in the vacant region. D. THE SECRETARY OF THE DISTRICT 2.16 Qualifications The Secretary shall be an pastor ordained minister who is a member of one of the congregations of the District. 2.17 Duties a. The Secretary shall record the proceedings during District conventions, publish the proceedings after the President has approved the manuscript, sign (in conjunction with the President) all legal documents and instruments, and perform such other work as the District may direct him through its Bylaws, regulations, or special resolutions. b. The Assistant Secretary shall assist the Secretary whenever requested to do so. In the event that the Secretary becomes incapacitated or vacates his office, the Assistant Secretary shall take over the office and duties of the Secretary. c. The Secretary shall certify delegates for synodical conventions and synodical presidential elections (Synodical Bylaws 3.1.3.2 and 3.12.2.3). E. THE TREASURER OF THE DISTRICT 2.18 Qualifications The Treasurer shall be a lay voting member of one of the congregations of the District and shall be familiar with accounting and good business practices, and of good standing in his congregation and community. 2012 Convention Section E – Overtures Page E-30 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 32 33 34 35 36 37 38 39 40 41 42 43 44 45 46 47 48 2.19 Duties a. The Treasurer shall be responsible for the receipt, safeguarding, and proper disbursement of District funds through the establishment of appropriate procedures, systems, records, and internal controls, possibly utilizing the services of the Business Manager (if appointed), whose assistance in such functions would be under the supervision of the Treasurer. b. He shall be responsible for the establishment of one or more bank accounts as authorized by the Board of Directors and shall establish proper safeguarding and custody of securities, documents, and other legal or valuable papers of the District in one or more safe-deposit boxes or other depository or file as may be appropriate in the interest of security against loss or destruction. c. He shall cause to be prepared such financial reports, budgets, work programs, statistics, and related data as shall be requested by the Board of Directors or as shall be appropriate in the operation of the District’s business. d. He shall supervise the purchase of investments as authorized by the Board of Directors. e. He shall attend meetings of the Board of Directors, the Commission on Finance and Management, Budget Advisory Conferences, District conventions, and any other meetings where the financial affairs of the District are being considered or reviewed, and he shall present such reports and summaries as necessary or required. F. THE FINANCIAL SECRETARY OF THE DISTRICT 2.20 Qualifications The Financial Secretary shall be a lay voting member of one of the congregations of the District and shall be familiar with general business practices. 2.21 Duties a. The Financial Secretary shall be responsible for the preparation of a statistical record of all budget and miscellaneous contributions received by the District Treasury. b. He shall be responsible for the issuance of regular reports in the official District news publication showing the contributions of each congregation in such manner and frequency as directed by the Board of Directors. c. He shall be responsible for keeping an accurate account of the communicant membership of every congregation, of each circuit, and of the district. d. He shall be responsible for reporting to the Board of Directors, congregations which may experience difficulty in being current with District/Synod mission Commitment. e. He may be assisted in the fulfillment of these responsibilities through such service and assistance as may be arranged with the Business Manager (if appointed). 2012 Convention Section E – Overtures Page E-31 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 32 33 34 35 36 37 38 39 40 41 42 43 44 45 46 47 48 49 50 51 52 53 54 55 56 57 58 G. THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS OF THE DISTRICT 2.22 Membership a. The Board of Directors shall be constituted as follows: The President, the Vice-Presidents, the Secretary, the Treasurer, and the Financial Secretary shall be members of the Board. Four parish pastors, four laymen who are voting members of congregations of the District, and two parish teachers of Lutheran elementary or secondary schools or DCEs serving congregations shall be elected according to procedures defined in these Bylaws. b. The Administrative Assistant(s) to the President, the Assistant Secretary, and the Business Manager (if appointed), shall be advisory members of the Board. c. Every member of the Board shall be a member of a voting congregation of the District. No two members of the same congregation may be members of the Board. When a member of the Board ceases to be a member of a voting congregation of the District or when the nature of his major duties is such that he no longer is a member of the group from which he was elected, he is automatically eliminated from membership on the Board. 2.23 Officers The Board of Directors shall elect its own chairman, and vice-chairman. 2.24 Prohibition of Conflict of Interest a. No officer, director, board or commission member of the District or any agency of the District shall use his position or knowledge acquired from his services in such a manner that a conflict between his personal or business interest and the interest and general welfare of The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod arises (see Synodical Bylaw 1.5.2). b. Officers or members of District boards or commissions shall not enter into gainful business transactions directly or indirectly, with any board or commission on which they serve. 2.25 Responsibilities, Commissions a. The Board of Directors as a whole is charged with the responsibility of handling for the District all matters pertaining to missions, evangelism, parish education, youth ministry, finances, stewardship, and student aid. b. After each District election the Board shall appoint out of its voting and/or advisory membership six commissions for a period of three years: A Commission on Mission Services A Commission on Evangelism Services A Commission on Congregational Life A Commission on Education Services A Commission on Stewardship Services A Commission on Finance and Management Immediately after such organization it shall inform all congregations and pastors ordained and teachers commissioned ministers of the District concerning the personnel of such commissions and indicate to which member communications inquiring for information and/or assistance are to be sent. c. In order properly to direct the work in the different fields, various duties and powers are prescribed for the Board of Directors. Since the Board through the commissions administers the work in the different fields, the regulations apply primarily to the particular commission involved and shall be so stated. However, as each commission must submit its findings to the Board for action, all duties and powers delegated to any particular commission actually remain the responsibility of the Board of Directors, although it may act through a particular commission. Rules and regulations are assigned to the various commissions only in order to designate which phases of the work are the primary responsibility of certain groups within the Board of Directors. 2012 Convention Section E – Overtures Page E-32 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 32 33 34 35 36 37 38 39 40 41 42 43 44 45 d. Each commission shall meet at the call of its chairman as often as is necessary to conduct its business. e. Each commission shall be responsible for its share of the Board of Directors’ annual report to the District convention. f. Subcommittees: Each commission, with the approval of the Board of Directors, may augment itself and/or appoint such personnel and committees as are needed to carry out the overall objectives of the commission. All such appointments will terminate at the close of the convention. 2.26 Meetings a. The Board shall meet not fewer than four times a year, or at the call of the Chairman, or at the call of three members of the Board. A majority of the Board members shall constitute a quorum. The District shall pay all expenses incurred. b. The Secretary of the Board shall keep accurate minutes of each meeting of the Board and copies of these minutes shall be sent after each meeting to all members of the Board. A summary of the actions of the Board shall be sent to all circuit counselors visitors and circuit lay-delegates, the Auditing Committee, the Public Relations Committee on Communication Services, and to each congregation on a regular basis. 2.27 Administrative Assistant(s) to the President, and the Business Manager (if appointed). The Board shall appoint the Administrative Assistant(s) to the President and may appoint a Business Manager. 2.28 Financial Duties a. The Board shall bond or insure the fiduciary officers and such employees of the District as it deems advisable, such bond or insurance policy to be in the custody of the District President. b. The Board shall designate the signatories, in addition to the President and the Treasurer, who are to be duly certified for the financial transactions of the District. c. The Board shall determine the remuneration of the President, the Administrative Assistant(s) to the President, and the Business Manager (if appointed). d. Budgeting Procedure: After the commitments for each year have been received from the congregations, one member of each of the commissions, together with the Financial Secretary and Treasurer, shall propose a tentative income and expenditures budget for the next fiscal year for the consideration of the Board of Directors. The Board of Directors shall establish the budget at its first meeting in the new fiscal year. e. Following the District Convention and before the beginning of the next fiscal year, the Board shall appoint an Auditing Committee. Such committee shall stand for three years. 2012 Convention Section E – Overtures Page E-33 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 32 33 34 35 36 37 38 39 40 41 42 43 44 45 46 47 48 49 50 51 52 53 54 55 56 57 58 2.29 Powers and Duties with Respect to the Property of the District a. The Board of Directors shall hold in trust all properties of the Central Illinois District and shall have the power to transact the business of the District between conventions; always, however, subject to the rules and regulations of the District. b. The Board of Directors is hereby empowered to hold, purchase, and sell property, make loans, hold mortgages and chattels, etc., in the name of and for the benefit of the Central Illinois District of The Lutheran Church— Missouri Synod. c. Purchase or sale of property exceeding $300,000 must be approved by a majority of circuit counselors visitors and circuit lay-delegates present at a meeting called for this purpose. 2.30 Other Duties a. The Board may call missionaries-at-large and place them in new mission fields within the boundaries of the District. The Board may also call campus pastors and institutional chaplains and make appointment of part-time workers at various institutions within the boundaries of the District. b. The circuit counselors visitors the District shall be regularly informed of the transactions and directions of the Board. In any matter affecting a particular circuit the Board shall confer with the counselor visitor of that circuit. c. The Board of Directors shall be accountable to the delegate convention of the District and shall present a complete report of its actions at each District convention. Appeals may be made from the actions of the Board to the District convention, and the action of the convention on such appeals shall be final. d. Nothing shall be done by the Board which is in conflict with the rules and regulations of the Synod or of the Central Illinois District. H. STAFF 2.31 Administrative Assistant(s) to the President a. Administrative Assistant(s) to the President may be appointed by the Board of Directors as it deems necessary or as may be determined by the District convention. b. The Administrative Assistant(s) shall report regularly to the Board of Directors and to the President on the activities of his office. c. The term of office, unless otherwise specified, shall be for a period of three years, with no limitation on reappointment to successive terms. Appointees may normally expect reappointment if their work proves satisfactory and there is a continuing need for their services, but every appointment shall be subject to mandatory review and decision on reappointment every 3 years. d. Procedures for removing or terminating an appointment shall be in accordance with the Bylaws of the Synod (cf. Synodical Bylaw 3.11.1). e. Duties of the Administrative Assistant(s): i. Devote his efforts to the promotion of the Kingdom of God in the Central Illinois District of The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod; ii. Carry out the decisions of the Board as it may direct and shall be a(n) advisory member(s) of the Board; iii. Assist the President, as he directs, in the President’s supervisory responsibility with reference to the operating and service divisions of the District; 2012 Convention Section E – Overtures Page E-34 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 32 33 34 35 36 37 38 39 40 41 42 43 44 45 46 47 48 49 50 51 52 53 54 55 iv. Serve as an advisory member of and as field representative for the respective commission(s) to which he has been assigned, and shall seek to visit all congregations in the interest of the assigned responsibilities and areas of service as time permits, and make such special visits as directed by the commission(s) or the President or by the Board of Directors. 2.32 Business Manager (if appointed) a. The Board of Directors may appoint a Business Manager, who is to be generally responsible to the Board of Directors and specifically responsible to certain commissions or officers as indicated herein. b. Duties of the Business Manager (if appointed): i. Property Management: The Business Manager shall be responsible for the regular inspection of all District-owned property, recommending any items for repair and maintenance to the appropriate commission or the Board of Directors, and shall maintain records on major maintenance items such as roofs, redecoration, and exterior painting. ii. Property Selection: The Business Manager shall assist the Board of Directors or any commission, upon request, in the examination of sites and buildings in contemplation of purchase or other acquisition by the District. iii. Legal Responsibilities: The Business Manager shall assist the Board of Directors or any commission in the legal details involved in all purchases of sites and buildings and shall supervise the safekeeping of the deeds, mortgages, abstracts, and related records of all District-owned or mortgaged property. iv. Insurance Management: The Business Manager shall maintain proper insurance coverage on all property of the District, shall seek to obtain the best insurance values on behalf of the District, shall verify and recommend for payment any premiums as they come due, and shall handle all claims arising under such insurance coverage. He shall also handle any other forms of insurance which the District may purchase. Such duties may be delegated to a layman of the District, appointed by the Board, as Insurance Manager under the supervision of the Business Manager. v. Other Property Management: The Business Manager shall assure the Board of Directors that the proper taxes, if any, are being paid on District-owned property, or that exemptions are filed and in effect if such is appropriate. He shall likewise be available to any District commission in connection with any property matters, such as acting as liaison between an architect, a contractor, and any commission of the District, in contemplation of or in process of the construction of any building. He shall seek such assistance as is necessary or appropriate in all property management functions, utilizing where possible the experience and abilities of members of the congregations and reporting such appointments to the Board of Directors for approval or recognition, as may be appropriate. vi. Office Management: The Business Manager shall serve as office manager for the District office and shall be responsible for the maintenance of adequate facilities, supplies, and clerical and secretarial employment. vii. Assisting the District Treasurer: The Business Manager shall assist the Treasurer and shall be under his supervision with respect to the receipt, custody, recording, and disbursement of District funds. He shall handle such business matters as supervision of receipts, check preparation, general correspondence pertaining to general District financial matters, and such other duties as may be assigned by the Treasurer. I. OTHER COMMITTEES 2.33 The Congregational Constitutions and District Handbook Committee 2012 Convention Section E – Overtures Page E-35 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 32 33 34 35 36 37 38 39 40 41 42 43 44 45 46 47 48 49 50 51 52 53 54 55 56 57 a. Membership: The Congregational Constitution and District Handbook Committee shall consist of two pastors ordained ministers, at least one of whom shall be a parish pastor, and one layman who is a voting member of a congregation of the District, who shall be an attorney. b. Duties: i. A congregation which applies for membership in the Synod shall send its constitution and bylaws to the District President, who shall refer them to the Congregational Constitutions and District Handbook Committee. This committee shall examine the constitution and bylaws to ascertain whether or not their provisions are in harmony with Scriptures and the teachings and practices of the Synod, in order that any necessary changes may be made by the congregation. A congregation shall not be granted membership in the Synod until it has made such changes as the Committee has deemed necessary and the Committee has notified the District President of its approval of the congregation’s constitution and bylaws. Once a congregation’s application for membership has been approved by the District Board of Directors or, if denied by the Board of Directors and requested by the congregation, approved by the District Convention, a copy of its constitution and bylaws shall be forwarded to the secretary of the District and retained in the District office for future reference (Synodical Bylaws 2.2.1 – 2.3.2). ii. A member congregation which translates, revises, or amends its constitution and/or bylaws or adopts a new constitution and/or bylaws shall submit such translation, revision, amendment, or new constitution and/or bylaws to the District President who shall direct it to the Congregational Constitutions and District Handbook Committee for review. Upon favorable action by the District Board of Directors, the congregation shall be notified that the changes have been approved and that the congregation may function under the new or changed constitution and/or bylaws without jeopardizing its good standing in the Synod. Such actions shall be reported to the next convention of the District. A copy of such constitutions and/or bylaws shall be retained in the District office for future reference (Synodical Bylaws 2.4.1 and 2.4.2). iii. The committee shall request, receive and keep on permanent file a copy of the constitution and bylaws of every congregation in the District. iv. The committee shall be responsible for revising the District Handbook and for providing the Synodical Commission on Constitutional Matters with a copy of any proposed revisions for its prior approval. After each District convention the committee shall be responsible for disseminating copies of the revised version of the District Handbook to the congregations of the District. 2.34 The Social Ministry Committee a. Membership: The Board of Directors shall appoint a Social Ministry Committee consisting of two pastors ordained ministers, one teacher or DCE, and two laymen who are voting members of congregations of the District. b. The Duties of the Social Ministry Committee: i. Provide advisory services which will cultivate congregation members in their concern for human care, and shall participate in social education and endeavors to remove or alleviate human suffering; ii. Promote and participate in human care activities from the Office of National Mission and the Office of International Mission; iii. Recommend to the Board of Directors the granting of assistance to congregations, or through them to their members or others, in dire emergencies or disaster situations; iv. Assist the Commission on Mission Services, upon request, in the institutional ministries of the District. 2.35 The Ministerial Health Committee 2012 Convention Section E – Overtures Page E-36 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 32 33 34 35 36 37 38 39 40 41 42 43 44 45 46 47 48 49 50 51 52 53 54 55 56 57 a. Membership: The President of the District shall appoint a Ministerial Health Committee consisting of two pastors ordained ministers, one teacher or DCE, and two laymen who are voting members of congregations of the District, at least one of whom shall, if possible, be a physician or psychiatrist. b. Duties: The Committee shall provide opportunity for the continuing education and vocational growth of the church’s workers, advocate and facilitate care and counsel for the church’s workers to support them in the performance of their official duties, and advocate and facilitate support for the personal well-being of the church’s workers and their family members. 2.36 The Auditing Committee a. Membership: The Auditing Committee shall consist of three laymen who are voting members of congregations of the District and qualified for such work through accounting and related experiences, one of whom shall be a certified public accountant. b. Duties: The Auditing Committee shall meet in mid-year with the Treasurer and Business Manager (if appointed) to review records, vouchers, instruments, cash and bank balances, notes receivable and payable, insurance papers, etc., and shall submit its report to the Board of Directors. c. Special Audit: The Auditing Committee shall annually, or more frequently at the request of the Board of Directors, engage a firm of Certified Pubic Accountants to audit the books and financial records of the District and such other funds and records as the Auditing Committee or the Board of Directors in their judgment may consider appropriate. The Auditing Committee shall review the audit reports as submitted by the independent CPA firm, and shall prepare a report with recommendations to the Board of Directors and to the District convention. At least annually notice shall be given to each congregation within the District that a copy of the latest audit is available from each circuit counselor visitor and upon request from a congregation, a copy or copies will be supplied from the District office. d. Bonding: The Auditing Committee shall recommend to the Board of Directors the amount and form of bonding or insurance which the District shall maintain in force on the Treasurer, Business Manager (if appointed), employees, and such other persons as may be deemed appropriate for such bonding coverage. J. REGULATIONS GOVERNING NOMINATIONS AND ELECTIONS 2.37 General Regulations a. Appointment of Committee: In preparation for the elections at the District convention the President, in consultation with the Vice-Presidents, shall appoint an Elections Committee, consisting of two pastors ordained ministers, two teachers or DCEs, and two laymen who are voting members of congregations of the District. b. The Elections Committee, in consultation with the Nominations Committee, shall make the necessary provisions for elections and shall conduct and supervise the elections according to District regulations. The members of the Election Committee shall serve until their successors have been appointed. 2.38 Order of Elections a. In the year preceding the election of the officers of Synod, the election shall proceed as follows: The President and Vice-Presidents shall be elected first, as provided hereinafter; then the Secretary, the Assistant Secretary, the Treasurer, the Financial Secretary, the members of the Board of Directors, the circuit counselors visitors, and the members of the standing commissions and committees of the District. b. Tie Vote: In case of a tie vote to any of the offices, the names of 15 delegates shall be drawn from a container containing the names of all the accredited delegates, to vote for one of the candidates. c. b. Proxy: There shall be no voting by proxy at any District election. 2012 Convention Section E – Overtures Page E-37 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 32 33 34 35 36 37 38 39 40 41 42 43 44 45 46 47 48 49 50 51 52 53 54 55 56 57 58 2.39 Order of Names on Ballot The names, congregational affiliation, and post office address of the congregation of each candidate in all elections shall be placed on the ballot in alphabetical order and without any distinctive mark. 2.40 Nomination for President a. Advance Nominating Ballot: Five months before the regular election each congregation and each pastor holding voting membership in the District shall receive from the Secretary of the District an official nominating ballot on which to nominate a one or two candidates for President. The congregation’s ballot shall be signed by the chairman and secretary of the congregation. Both The ballots, duly filled in and signed, must be returned to the Secretary of the District at least eight weeks prior to the convention at which the election will be held in order to be counted. b. Notice of Nomination for President: The Secretary of the District shall notify the five candidates who received the highest number of nominations for the office of President (provided they received at least 5% of the total nominations submitted), but the number of nominating votes shall not be revealed. Such nominees who for good and sufficient reasons will not be able to serve in this particular full-time office shall so inform the Secretary of the District at least five weeks prior to the convention. Should any of the five nominees decline the nomination, the Secretary of the District shall notify the nominee receiving the next highest number of votes (as long as it is at least 5% of the total nominations submitted). 2.41 Election of President a. The Secretary of the District shall report to the convention and deliver to the Elections Committee an alphabetical list of the five persons nominated for the office of President in accord with the provisions above together with a tabulation of the nominating votes. These candidates shall be introduced to the convention. b. The election of the President shall take place as soon as possible after the convention is in session. c. If no candidate receives a majority on the first ballot, the name of the candidate who received the smallest number of votes shall be stricken from the list, and a new ballot taken immediately. This procedure is to be followed until a person is elected. 2.42 Nominations for Vice-Presidents A primary election for the nomination of candidates for the office of Vice-President shall be held after the President has been elected. Ballots for the nominations shall be prepared in such manner that each voting delegate shall have opportunity for one nomination for each of the regional Vice-Presidents. 2.43 Election of Vice-Presidents a. The ballot for the election of the Vice-Presidents shall list three candidates for each of the regional VicePresidents. The names of those candidates who received the greater number of votes in the primary election shall be placed on the ballot, even though one or two may have received a majority in the primary election. b. In the regular election each voting delegate shall be entitled to vote for each of the regional Vice-Presidents. If a candidate in either region receives a majority on the first ballot, such candidate or candidates shall be declared elected. If no candidate receives a majority in one region or in either region, the name of the candidate or candidates receiving the smallest number of votes for his region shall be removed from the next ballot. Another vote shall then be taken. 2.44 Ranking of the Vice-Presidents After the two Vice-Presidents have been elected, another ballot shall be taken to determine their rank. Each voting delegate shall indicate his choice for the office of First Vice-President. The candidate receiving the greater number of votes shall be declared First Vice-President, and the other candidate shall automatically be declared Second VicePresident. 2012 Convention Section E – Overtures Page E-38 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 32 33 34 35 36 37 38 39 40 41 42 43 44 45 46 47 48 49 50 51 52 53 54 55 56 57 2.45 Election of the Circuit Counselor Visitor a. The District shall create a sufficient number of circuits and elect a circuit counselor visitor for each circuit from among the pastors serving congregations and emeriti pastors who are members of voting congregations thereof, to make possible official visits to each congregation once in three years, in accordance with Synodical Bylaw 4.4.4. b. Each circuit forums shall meet at the call of its circuit counselor visitor at least four months prior to the District convention. Nominations for candidates for the office of circuit counselor visitor may be submitted by a voting congregation of the circuit and suggested by the District President, in consultation with the praesidium of the District. Selection of the circuit counselor visitor at the circuit forum shall be election by written ballot. The privilege of voting shall be exercised by the representatives from each member of the circuit, who shall have been selected in the manner prescribed by the congregation (Synodical Bylaw 5.3.2). Following presentations of pertinent information regarding each pastor (cf. Synodical Bylaw 3.12.3.6(c)) and regarding circuit counselor visitor responsibilities as provided in Synodical Bylaw 5.2.3, each voter shall write in the names of two pastors on the initial ballot. The three pastors (or more in case of a tie) who receive the highest number of votes in this preliminary ballot shall be placed on the next ballot. Each voter shall then vote for only one candidate. The pastor who shall have received a simple majority of all votes cast shall be declared the nominee. If no pastor receives a majority, balloting shall continue with the candidate receiving the lowest number of votes being removed from each succeeding ballot. Immediately following the circuit forum, the circuit counselor visitor shall report in writing the results of the selection process to the secretary of the district in preparation for ratification by the district convention. Should the candidate(s) no longer be available for this office, a circuit caucus at the District convention shall have the right to act on behalf of the congregations to nominate a replacement the district president shall make the selection, which selection shall then be included on the convention slate of circuit visitors. The convention shall have the right to alter the slate by amendment. The convention shall then ratify the slate of Circuit Counselors Visitors, which ratification shall constitute election (Synodical Bylaw 5.2.2). c. Vacancies which occur in the office of circuit counselor visitor between conventions shall be filled by appointment by the District President (Synodical Bylaw 5.2.2.1). 2.46 Election of District Nominations Committee a. At each regular convention of the District six persons (two parish pastors, two parish teachers or DCEs, two laymen who are voting members of congregations of the District) shall be elected to serve as the Nominations Committee for the next convention. They are to be chosen from a list of candidates representative of the various geographical areas of the District, submitted by the current Nominations Committee and augmented by additional candidates, if any, nominated from the floor of the convention. b. The Nominations Committee is an ad hoc convention committee, to which limitations on holding multiple offices do not apply but whose members may not succeed themselves. c. Should a vacancy occur on the Nominations Committee, the District President shall appoint a replacement from the list of non-elected nominees to this committee for the same classification as the vacancy in the order of the highest number of votes received. d. The chairman and secretary of the committee shall be advisory members of the succeeding Nominations Committee. 2.47 Nominations for Other Offices a. The District Nominations Committee shall nominate two candidates each for the following offices: the Secretary, Assistant Secretary, Treasurer, and Financial Secretary (in accordance with Synodical Bylaw 4.3), for 2012 Convention Section E – Overtures Page E-39 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 members of the Board of Directors, the Congregational Constitutions and District Handbook Committee, the District Nominations Committee, and for the District member and alternate to the Synodical Committee for Convention Nominations, in accordance with Synodical Bylaws 3.12.3 - 3.12.3.3. b. Candidates for membership on the Board of Directors shall be nominated so as to give equal representation, as nearly as practicable, to the various circuits of the District. c. The Nominations Committee shall present these lists of nominations to the convention for ratification or amendment in alphabetical order. This report shall contain pertinent information concerning the specific experiences and qualifications of each candidate for the office in question. 2.48 Election a. After approval of the nominations by the convention the Elections Committee shall prepare the ballots and direct the election of the above-named officers, boards, commissions, and committees. b. Election shall be by simple majority vote. c. In situations where delegates are asked to vote for more than one candidate on a single ballot, it is possible for more nominees to receive a majority vote than there are offices to fill. Should this situation occur, those nominees receiving the highest number of votes shall be declared elected. 2012 Convention Section E – Overtures Page E-40 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 32 33 34 35 36 37 38 39 40 41 42 43 44 45 46 47 48 49 50 51 52 53 54 55 56 57 III. CIRCUIT OFFICIALS A. THE CIRCUIT COUNSELORS VISITORS 3.01 Circuit Counselors Visitors and District President a. Each circuit counselor visitor, by virtue of his office, shall assist the District President within the circuit. b. The circuit counselor visitor shall regularly report on his activities to the District President. c. The circuit counselor visitor is the principal officer of the circuit and serves in accordance with the duties assigned to this position in the Constitution and Bylaws of the Synod and District (Synodical Bylaw 5.2.1). 3.02 Circuit Counselors Visitors and Member Congregations a. The circuit counselor visitor shall, when requested to do so by the District President, serve as his representative to visit each congregation once in three years and otherwise as he deems it necessary (Synodical Bylaw 5.2.3.1). b. The purpose of the official visits with pastors, congregations, and schools shall be those described in the Synodical Handbook (Synodical Bylaws 5.2.3.1 and 5.2.3.2). c. The circuit counselor visitor may be assisted by an Administrative Assistant to the President in the visitation to Lutheran Schools. 3.03 Expenses of Circuit Counselors Visitors The circuit counselor visitor is authorized to draw on the District treasury for his expenses. 3.04 Circuit Forum a. Representation: Each congregation shall be represented at the circuit forum by its pastor and one lay member designated by the congregation. Depending on its adopted objectives, the circuit may request additional representation. The Circuit Forum is encouraged to meet at least twice a year (Synodical Bylaw 5.3.1). b. Purpose: The circuit forum is the group which aids the process of keeping congregations, particularly the lay leaders, pastors, and other church workers supportive of one another in their common confession and mutually active in developing programs for the good of member congregations, in considering and recommending new work, and in suggesting improvements for services and programming at the national and district levels. The circuit counselor visitor, with any other circuit officers, shall have the primary responsibility of preparing the agenda for the circuit forum. c. Functions: Among the functions which the circuit forum may perform are the following: (Synodical Bylaw 5.3.1) i. To study the Scriptures and the Confessions in order to promote an evangelical spirit in our walking together. ii. To develop and adopt within existing policies of the District complementary and sometimes joint plans for missions outreach in the circuit area; iii. To devise and develop programs and services relevant to the needs of circuit congregations, lay leaders, teachers, and pastors; iv. To receive and respond as appropriate to advice, guidance, resolutions, and programs in other sections of the Synod as such may be addressed to it from other circuits, the District, and the general Synod; 2012 Convention Section E – Overtures Page E-41 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 32 33 34 35 36 37 38 39 40 41 42 43 44 45 46 47 48 49 50 51 52 53 54 55 56 57 v. To serve as a setting to review and evaluate programs, plans and long-range directions of the District and Synod, and thus participate in the triennial process of suggesting, developing, and attaining the Synod’s priorities and goals. d. Election of Synodical Convention Delegates: The circuit forum triennially shall elect the pastoral and lay delegate and their alternates, to the general convention of the Synod according to the regulations of the Synod (Synodical Bylaws 3.1.2 and 3.1.2.1). The lay delegate shall, upon election, serve through the triennium following the next convention as an advisory member of the circuit forum (Synodical Bylaw 5.3.3). e. Overtures: The circuit forum shall be qualified to submit overtures to national and district conventions (Synodical Bylaw 5.3.5). 3.05 Circuit Convocations a. The circuit convocation is a larger gathering of members from circuit congregations during a year in which there is no national or district convention. The circuit counselor visitor, with any other circuit officers, shall have the primary responsibility of preparing for the circuit convocation. b. The purpose of a circuit convocation is to provide a setting in which congregational members may know of and celebrate the ministry pursued by each congregation, may review and discuss the work of the circuit forum, may discuss and evaluate mission potential within the circuit, and may receive information on various phases of the work pursued through districts and Synod. As such, its emphasis should be on inspiration, education, motivation, and mission and theological discourse (Synodical Bylaw 5.4.2). B. THE CIRCUIT LAY-DELEGATES 3.06 Office The lay delegate elected by the circuit forum shall be the circuit lay-delegate. 3.07 Duties of the Circuit Lay-Delegates a. The circuit lay-delegate shall attend all meetings of his circuit, the Budget Advisory Conference, and such other meetings requiring his presence as may be called by the Board of Directors. He shall serve as an advisory member of the circuit forum. b. On special visits to the congregations he may accompany the circuit counselor visitor. c. He shall assist the circuit counselor visitor in reporting on the work of the Synod and of the District on his visits to the congregations. d. He shall endeavor to acquaint himself with the affairs of the Synod and of the District by every means available. e. He shall support the circuit counselor visitor in encouraging the congregations in the fuller use of the educational agencies available. f. He shall interest himself especially in the financial contributions of the congregations for home, district, and Synodical purposes. IV. DISPUTE RESOLUTION 4.01 Disputes defined in Bylaw Article 1.10 of the Synodical Handbook shall be resolved by the procedure set forth therein. 2012 Convention Section E – Overtures Page E-42 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 32 33 34 35 36 37 38 39 40 41 42 43 44 45 46 47 48 49 50 51 52 53 54 55 56 57 58 V. EVANGELISM THE COMMISSION ON EVANGELISM SERVICES 5.01 Duties a. The Commission on Evangelism Services shall co-operate with Synod’s Office of National Mission to develop policies and provide programs of evangelism for use by individuals, congregations, circuits, and the District. In keeping with the Synod’s Office of National Mission, the policies and programs provided will include inreach, outreach, and assimilation/retention. b. It shall have the responsibility to make the work of evangelism the chief goal of our church. c. It shall strive to cultivate in members a greater mission consciousness and evangelistic concern. d. It shall arrange leadership training workshops and conferences in evangelism. e. It shall recommend and distribute evangelism materials. f. It is encouraged to avail itself of the assistance and experiences of additional pastors, teachers, and laymen in the District. g. The Commission on Evangelism Services may delegate much of the actual work to an evangelism field representative (district Bylaw 2.31 e.). 5.02 Subcommittees The Commission, with the approval of the Board of Directors, may appoint committees to assist in the various areas of activity. VI. CONGREGATIONAL LIFE THE COMMISSION ON CONGREGATIONAL LIFE 6.01 Duties The Commission on Congregational Life shall, in cooperation with Synod’s Office of National Mission, support and serve the congregations and professional workers of the District in their ministries of worship, nurture, service, and youth. The commission shall: a. Assist congregations and professional workers in stimulating members to serve the temporal needs of others in the community and world (so that the response to the Gospel of loving and caring for others may be demonstrated in life and vocation). b. Maintain liaison and cooperation with appropriate auxiliary and other service organizations recognized by the District. c. Assist congregations and professional workers in worship by providing literature for the understanding and love of our Lutheran heritage, and by recommending new worship forms worthy of use in Lutheran worship. d. Assist congregations and professional workers in developing loving and caring ministries to households of various Christian lifestyles. e. Encourage and assist congregations in establishing family life ministries. 2012 Convention Section E – Overtures Page E-43 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 32 33 34 35 36 37 38 39 40 41 42 43 44 45 46 47 48 49 50 51 52 53 54 55 56 57 f. Encourage and assist congregations in establishing and maintaining youth ministries. g. Encourage and assist congregations with their educational ministries such as Sunday Schools, Bible Classes, Vacation Bible Schools, Saturday Schools, etc., with the exception of Christian Day Schools. 6.02 Subcommittees The commission, with the approval of the Board of Directors, may appoint committees to assist in furthering its work. VII. EDUCATION SERVICES THE COMMISSION ON EDUCATION SERVICES 7.01 Duties The Commission on Education Services shall cooperate with the Synod’s Office of National Mission and shall assist and advise the local congregations with regard to the whole range of Christian education, full time parochial education and continuing education for full and part-time church workers. The Commission shall help the local congregation achieve the objectives and scope of Christian education as outlined: a. Aid those congregations which have full time schools, e.g., preschools, elementary or high schools. b. Aid congregations by assisting in providing for continuing education for full and part-time church workers. c. Provide personnel services and resources for calling competent teaching staffs for the schools of the District. d. Work toward an improved quality of Christian education through in-service training programs for pastors, teachers, and DCEs; through analysis and interpretation of statistics gathered on the educational functions of our congregations; and by visiting congregations and Lutheran elementary and secondary schools. e. Encourage and promote congregation members to become lay or professional church workers. f. Provide a liaison with synodical education experts. 7.02 Subcommittees The Commission, with the approval of the Board of Directors, may appoint committees to assist in furthering its work, e.g., in the areas of Lutheran preschools, elementary and secondary schools; and continuing education for full and part-time church workers. VIII. MISSIONS THE COMMISSION ON MISSION SERVICES 8.01 Duties a. The function of the Commission on Mission Services shall be to “strengthen congregations and their members in giving bold witness by word and deed to the love and work of God, the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, and extend that Gospel witness into all the world” (Synodical Constitution III 2). b. The Commission on Mission Services shall direct its attention to the entire mission work of the District (home missions, institutional mission, campus ministry, etc.) and shall promote the cause of mission work in general. It shall explore territories in the District with a view to establishing mission stations and congregations. It shall 2012 Convention Section E – Overtures Page E-44 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 32 33 34 35 36 37 38 39 40 41 42 43 44 45 46 47 48 49 50 51 52 53 54 55 56 57 58 recommend to the Board of Directors the calling of missionaries to new fields, if conditions warrant it, and the filling of vacancies occurring in the parishes which are not yet organized, and it shall supervise the work of the missionaries and pastors of subsidized congregations. Much of the actual work of exploring new fields, visiting and encouraging mission congregations, etc., may be delegated to a field representative for this commission. c. Salaries: The Commission on Mission Services shall submit to the District Board of Directors recommendations to set and adequately update the scale of salaries, equipment allowance, and mileage payments for the missionaries and other mission church workers of the District. d. Report to the convention: In presenting its report to the District, the Commission on Mission Services shall list the membership statistics of the subsidized congregations and parishes, losses and gains, funds raised by these congregations for work at home and at large, indebtedness, amount of subsidy received, the year when subsidies were begun, as well as other data, which will give the convention a comprehensive picture of their respective missions. e. Synodical Membership: The Commission on Mission Services shall urge every newly-organized congregation to become a member of the Synod as soon as possible. A copy of the tentative draft of the constitution and bylaws of a congregation about to organize shall be submitted to the Congregational Constitutions and District Handbook Committee for review and appropriate action. f. Educational Agencies: The Commission on Mission Services shall urge all congregations under its care to maintain adequate educational agencies for all age levels. g. Conferences: The Commission on Mission Services shall conduct conferences and workshops in the interest of missions as needed and when appropriate. h. Expansion: The Commission on Mission Services shall offer support and assistance to congregations and pastors interested in beginning mission stations or establishing daughter churches. i. Instructions to Subsidized congregations: The Commission on Mission Services shall notify the congregations under its care of the following duties and regulations governing them: i. Application for Subsidy: All applications for subsidy shall be made in writing by congregation resolution, where this is possible, to the Commission on Mission Services. At a station where there is no organized congregation as yet, the Commission shall estimate the amount of subsidy needed and recommend the same to the Board of Directors. Every subsidized congregation shall make an earnest effort to reduce its request for subsidy, so that it may become self-supporting as soon as possible. ii. Regular Reports: Subsidized congregations and their pastors shall be held to make regular reports, and such other special reports as the Commission may deem necessary, to the Commission on Mission Services. This is to be done promptly on forms provided for this purpose and as required by the Commission. The regularity of these reports conditions the regularity of the subsidies. iii. Calling of Pastors: Vacant subsidized congregations shall seek the counsel of the District President and of the Commission on Mission Services when calling a new pastor. They should request the advice and presence of the District President or the field representative for the Commission on Mission Services at the meetings when calls are extended, or when considering calls which their pastors have received. If a congregation acts contrary to such advice without valid reason, subsidy may be withheld. When a pastor of a subsidized congregation has received a call, he shall immediately inform the Commission on Mission Services and the District President and seek their advice. iv. Repairs, Improvements, and Investments: Subsidized congregations intending to incur larger expenses not included in their annual budget shall first obtain the advice and approval of the Commission on Mission Services and/or the Board of Directors. v. Welfare and Retirement Plans: All subsidized congregations and their pastors ordained and teachers commissioned ministers shall be required to join Synod’s Concordia Retirement, Disability and Survivor, and Health Plans. Premiums are to be included in the congregation’s budget. 2012 Convention Section E – Overtures Page E-45 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 32 33 34 35 36 37 38 39 40 41 42 43 44 45 46 47 48 49 50 51 52 53 54 55 56 8.02 Subcommittees The Commission, with the approval of the Board of Directors, may appoint committees to explore each area of its concerns, e.g., small, rural, dual parish ministry, campus ministry, institutional ministry, town and country, social ministry, and world relief. IX. FINANCES THE COMMISSION ON FINANCE AND MANAGEMENT 9.01 Duties: The Commission on Finance and Management shall: a. Be responsible for the management of all fiscal and financial affairs of the District; b. Have as members the Treasurer and Financial Secretary and three other members with financial expertise as appointed by the Board of Directors. c. Provide a Budget Committee made up of the Treasurer, the Financial Secretary, and one member of each Commission of the Board to receive, review, and submit a proposed budget from all spending commissions of the District; d. Recommend to the Board of Directors a balanced budget. A balanced budget is one in which budgeted income minus budgeted expenditures plus unrestricted net assets, not including investment in plant, is greater than zero. A balanced budget is based on the mission commitments of the District congregations plus other income and on the spending request of all departments and agencies of the District; e. Study the finances of the District on the basis of reports prepared by District officers and constantly look for ways and means to improve the financial performance of the District; f. Keep the congregations of the District informed of the financial status of the District through the use of official news publications of the District and other means of communications. X. STEWARDSHIP THE COMMISSION ON STEWARDSHIP SERVICES Theological Principle: “I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that you present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God, which is your reasonable service.” (Romans 12:1 NKJV) Christian stewardship is managing all God’s resources which have been entrusted to us in such a way as to accomplish God’s purpose with them. It is the recognition and the fulfillment of personal privilege and responsibility for the managing of the whole life in accordance with the will of God. 10.01 Objectives Christian stewardship is an attitude which sees all of one’s life as a sacred trust to be used in the Master’s business. Therefore, objectives of the Commission on Stewardship Services are as follows: a. To help the people of God understand that stewardship originates and centers in His actions and therefore stewardship centers on the cross and our total response to Christ. 2012 Convention Section E – Overtures Page E-46 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 32 33 34 35 36 37 38 39 40 41 42 43 44 45 46 47 48 49 50 51 52 53 54 55 56 57 58 59 60 b. To help the people of God to be motivated, to make personal commitments regarding the use of their time, talents, and resources in every part of their life in order to fulfill God’s purpose for their existence on earth. c. To help the people of God to understand how they, through cooperative action with their fellow believers, can carry out the Great Commission of the Church. d. To help the people of God, comprehend why He blesses them with material resources and the ways in which these blessings might be shared with others. 10.02 Functions The functions of the Commission on Stewardship will be: a. Equip the leaders, the pastors, and the members of the congregations of the Central Illinois District in the principles and practices of the total stewardship life on a year-round basis. b. Guide the leaders, the pastors and the members of the congregations of the Central Illinois District to a greater appreciation of the privileges and responsibilities of Church membership. c. Offer training and develop skills of the leaders, pastors, and members of the congregations of the Central Illinois District for more effective stewardship ministry. d. Provide encouragement and challenge to professional church workers as they serve as examples of committed stewards of God. e. Promote the recruitment of professional church workers. f. Assist the leaders, the pastors, and the members of the Central Illinois District as they continue to grow in their attitudes and skills in the area of stewardship through Bible study, workshops, seminars, conferences, etc. g. Assist the leaders, the pastors, and the members of the congregations of the Central Illinois District to gain a greater understanding and appreciation of their worldwide mission and ministry for Christ through the Synod, and thereby grow in its support. h. Assist the leaders, the pastors, and the members of the congregations of the Central Illinois District to grow in the grace of Christian sacrificial giving. i. Provide counsel and materials for the congregations as they endeavor to enlist their members’ time, talents and treasures for Kingdom service in and through the congregation. j. Study and evaluate contemporary trends in Christian stewardship and share these studies with pastors and leaders of the congregations of the Central Illinois District. k. Plan and prepare stewardship programs which will offer helpful suggestions to pastors and elders of the congregations of the Central Illinois District. l. Counsel with circuits and congregations of the Central Illinois District in the use of stewardship programs and materials. m. Cooperate with those district departments which offer specific programs and services for the purpose of coordinating these programs and services into an overall program. 10.03 Duties It will be the duty of each member of the Commission on Stewardship Services to: a. Faithfully attend the Commission on Stewardship Services meetings. b. Participate in the discussion and decision-making process of the commission. 2012 Convention Section E – Overtures Page E-47 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 32 33 34 35 36 37 38 39 40 41 42 43 44 45 46 47 48 49 50 51 52 53 54 55 56 57 c. Accept special assignments from time to time that may be required to carry out the commission’s functions more effectively. d. Represent the Commission on Stewardship Services in a positive manner and to set an example of the spirit of total Christian stewardship in his life and attitudes. e. Pray that the Lord of the Church will bless the stewardship efforts of His stewards. 10.04 Student Aid The Commission on Stewardship with the approval of the Board of Directors shall appoint a Committee on Student Aid which shall receive all applications for financial assistance from students preparing for service in the church and shall make recommendations to the Board of Directors through the Commission on Stewardship. Each year the Committee shall give adequate publicity to the Student Aid Fund in an official District news publication. The committee shall be guided by the following provisions: a. Eligibility: Communicant members of a congregation of The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod in the Central Illinois District who are students or prospective students enrolled at synodical colleges, universities, or seminaries with the intent of preparing themselves for full-time work in the church are eligible. b. Applications: Application forms are to be obtained from the school in which the student is enrolled. The forms are to be sent to the school, not to the Central Illinois District office; the colleges, universities, or seminaries will forward the forms to the District by June 15. c. Nature of Support: All financial assistance shall be in the form of student grants. The amount of each grant shall be ratified by the Board of Directors. Financial assistance shall be determined on the basis of need determined by the accepted practice of the respective school. Grants shall be made only on an annual basis. If support is needed and desired for more than one year, an application shall be submitted prior to each new school year. Grants to students shall be sent only to the person in charge of such funds at the respective school. d. District Aid: Student grants shall be made available primarily to students who have completed high school and are enrolled in colleges and seminaries for studies leading to synodical certification. e. In the event a student who has received a student grant determines not to pursue studies leading to professional church service, it is understood that the recipient has a moral obligation to repay the grant. 10.05 Subcommittees The Commission, with the approval of the Board of Directors, may appoint committees to assist in its various areas of activity. XI. COMMUNICATION SERVICES 11.01 The Communications Committee a. Membership: The Communications Committee, appointed by the Board of Directors, shall consist of at least five members: one pastor ordained minister, one teacher or DCE, one layman, one member-at-large who may be acquainted with electronic and/or print media, and one editor. The editor shall be appointed for a three-year term. The chairman of the committee shall be appointed by the Board of Directors. b. Area Representatives: The Communications Committee shall select one representative, a layman if possible, from each circuit to assist the committee in the publicity work in that circuit. Additional area representatives may be selected as the committee deems necessary. 2012 Convention Section E – Overtures Page E-48 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 32 33 34 35 36 37 38 39 40 41 42 43 44 45 46 47 48 49 50 51 52 53 54 55 56 57 11.02 Duties a. The Communications Committee shall be responsible for all aspects of communication of District happenings. b. The editor shall be responsible for the official District news publication. c. The Communications Committee shall handle the publicity of all events of District-wide importance, such as the District convention, conferences, special rallies, and the like. The committee shall be responsible for the publishing of a daily summary of business and events of the District convention. d. The committee shall serve as a clearing house for all publicity in the District. To this end, all pastors shall be encouraged to keep this committee informed on what is being done in their locality in this respect, and pastors should feel free to call upon this committee for counsel in promoting local publicity. Likewise, the Board of Directors, the officers and staff, and all commissions and committees of the District shall in a timely manner notify the Communications Committee of all newsworthy items. e. The committee may issue a digest of District news, releases from Synod’s Board for Communication Services, and such other publicity materials that are being produced for the purpose of bringing our church to the attention of the public. This shall be sent to all pastors, professors, and teachers of the District. f. The committee shall promptly answer attacks or unfavorable comments made by the press, radio, or television concerning the church; when feasible this shall be done after consultation with the appropriate District officials. g. The committee shall promote articles and broadcasts that will publicize the position of the District or the Synod on matters currently controversial or directly affecting the attitude of many of our own people. h. The committee shall cooperate with the communication services of Synod and of neighboring districts by furnishing them with District news for possible nation-wide distribution and by supplying such other information and reports as may be found advisable. i. The committee shall send to the District Archivist for possible inclusion in the archives such material, photographs, and the like which it deems no longer necessary to retain in its own files. XII. SPECIAL MINISTRIES 12.01 The Archivist a. The Board of Directors shall appoint a District Archivist. The District President may appoint an Assistant Archivist. b. Duties i. The Archivist shall compile the history of the District in all phases of its work, such as organization, missions, educational agencies, young people’s work, finances, etc., as well as the history of the individual local congregations and their interrelations. ii. He shall preserve copies of all the Proceedings of District conventions, records of all boards, committees, and officers, reports and periodicals, minutes of all pastors’ and teachers’ conferences and circuit meetings, when no longer in use, and any documents of historical value, such as letters, printed anniversary booklets, parish papers, newspaper clippings, etc. iii. He shall index all such records, books, and documents, and keep them in the archives of the District. iv. Whenever an officer, committee, or conference no longer has need of any records, they shall be placed into the care of the archivist. 2012 Convention Section E – Overtures Page E-49 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 v. He shall inform himself, and be kept informed, of any change in the secretaryship of the various conferences, so that he may know where, at any time, to locate the minutes of the individual conferences. vi. All expenses incurred by the work of the archivist shall be defrayed from the District treasury. XIII AMENDMENTS TO BYLAWS 13.01 How Made Amendments to the Bylaws may be made, provided they are: a. not contrary to the Constitution and Bylaws of the Synod; b. submitted to the Commission on Constitutional Matters of the Synod for review and prior approval (Amendments not approved prior to the convention shall not take effect until approved by the commission.); c. presented in writing to a convention of the District; d. adopted by the affirmative vote of a majority of the delegates present and voting at such a convention. 2012 Convention Section E – Overtures Page E-50 CID Endowment Fund, Inc.: Board of Directors 2012-2015 Mr. Brian Millard, Chairman Mr. Richard McMullen, Vice Chairman Rev. Terry O’Brien Ms. Cheryl Stickel Neal Mr. John Rodenburg, Secretary, Treasurer Nominees for CID Endowment Fund: Board of Directors (Five people to be elected, Biographical Information found under Nominations, C-14-16) Rev. Kevin Bueltmann Mr. Kurt Busse - Commissioned Rev. Martin Eden Mr. Robert Ervin Mr. Richard McMullen Ms. Cheryl Stickel Neal Mr. John Rodenburg Rev. Terry Strom 2015 Convention Section F – Endowment Fund Page F-1 Report to the 4th Regular Convention Central Illinois District Endowment Fund The Central Illinois District Endowment Fund was established to help fund an annual scholarship account to assist students who are committed to full time church work and are enrolled in a church work academic program. Many thanks go to the Spencer Werner Foundation of Paris IL which spearheaded the idea and establishment of both CID Scholarship Support and this Fund. Scholarships are awarded to help pay the educational costs of such students. On average the annual cost (tuition, room, board, books, and fees) of attending one of our Concordia Universities or Seminaries is about $30,000-$40,000. During this past school year over 30 students shared in the distribution of $92,000. Other generous entities that provide annual funding include the CID LWML, CID Church Extension Fund, and the Doris Seider Trust. Currently, the Endowment itself has just over $1,000,000+ ($850,000+ reported three years ago) invested in conservative assets to generate a portion of the income that is awarded to students through the CID Scholarship Committee. Although interest rates have been very low in recent years, the Board is committed to conserving the principal entrusted to the Endowment Fund by limiting risky higher yield investments. Many of our CDs are earning around 1.5 percent and several are offering a return of 2.75 % which will change to a much lower return when they roll over. The Trustees recently had the LCMS Foundation people come and present alternative investment strategies. Our primary fund raising effort has been to ask each congregation to hold a special Endowment Sunday on the first Sunday in May by informing their members of the Endowment Fund and its purpose. Thereby, those who are moved by the Holy Spirit to give will be able to contribute. This past year approximately $3000 was raised for direct Scholarship Support and $1500 was given toward the principal of the Endowment Fund. In the last Triennium, the Rev. Charles Olander took over for Mr. David Rohe as the CID Gift Planner and as such he is an ex-officio member of the Endowment providing reports, suggestions, and valuable insight for the benefit of this Fund. To separate the fund from CID assets, a new checking account was opened at Illinois National Bank for the specific use of the Endowment Fund. We thank those who have generously and graciously contributed to the Endowment Fund. We ask Pastors and delegates to assist us in informing their members of the opportunity to support the Endowment Fund and our future professional church workers. And, we ask God’s continued blessings upon those who faithfully serve as workers in His Kingdom. 2015 Convention Section F – Endowment Fund Page F-2 7th Regular Convention July 6, 2015 Central Illinois District Church Extension Fund Agenda Call to Order President Kim Kleinschmidt Opening Prayer Rev. Charles Olander Minutes of the 6th Regular Convention Pres. Kim Kleinschmidt Report of the President Pres. Kleinschmidt Resolutions Pres. Kleinschmidt Slate of candidates and elections Pres. Kleinschmidt Executive Director Report Dave Rohe Goldhammer Award Presentation Dave Rohe Additional Floor Action Pres. Kleinschmidt Installation of the Board CID President Mark Miller Resolution to Adjourn Pres. Kleinschmidt Closing Prayer Rev. Steph Gillet 2015 Convention Section G – Church Extension Fund Page G-1 6th Regular Convention July 9, 2012 Central Illinois District Church Extension Fund Minutes The 6th Regular Convention of the Central Illinois District Church Extension Fund was called to order at 2:00 p.m. by President Kim Kleinschmidt. Rev. Gillet then had an opening prayer. The minutes of the 5th Regular Convention, from 2009, were reported approved by the CEF Board of Trustees at their August 2009 meeting, as authorized by the CEF in convention, July 2009. President Kleinschmidt then gave his report on the past triennium with an emphasis on the strength and stability of the Fund as well as other items in his letter printed in the Convention Manual. Resolution 12-08-01, concerning changes to the Extension Fund Bylaws was then presented for adoption. Following brief discussion, the resolution was passed by electronic vote. The slate of candidates for election to the Board of Trustees was presented. Following presentation of the slate, the following persons were elected to the board: Kim Kleinschmidt, President; Rev. Charles Olander, Vice President; Cheryl Martin, Secretary/Treasurer; Rev. Steph Gillet, Clergy Trustee; Danny Magelitz, Lay Trustee, Kevin Schultz, Lay Trustee; and Herb Krueger, Lay Trustee. Executive Director Dave Rohe then gave his presentation to the convention. He stressed the continued favorable standing with both the CEF Policy, NASSA Guidelines and the LCMS Board For Church Extension Guidelines. He stressed the strength of the Fund particularly as it pertains to these difficult economic time. Following his address, Director Rohe then presented the David Goldhammer Award for Outstanding Service to Church Extension to Mr. Merle Glick, from Pekin, Illinois. Mr. Glick received the award for his untiring work for the fund during its infancy in the early 1960s. A motion from the floor was then made and passed to allow the incoming Board to approve the minutes of the 6th Regular Convention, at its first regularly scheduled meeting. District President, Rev. David Bueltmann, then installed the Board into office. Following the installation, a motion was made, seconded and passed to adjourn. The Convention closed with a prayer by Rev. Olander. Respectfully submitted David H. Rohe, Acting Secretary 2015 Convention Section G – Church Extension Fund Page G-2 CENTRAL ILLINOIS DISTRICT - CHURCH EXTENSION FUNDS, INC. BOARD OF TRUSTEES 2012 - 2015 Mr. Kim Kleinschmidt - President Rev. Charles Olander - Vice President Mrs. Cheryl Martin - Secretary/Treasurer Mr. Kevin Schultz - Trustee Rev. Stephen Gillet - Trustee Mr. Danny Magelitz - Trustee Mr. Herb Krueger - Trustee 2015 Convention Section G – Church Extension Fund Page G-3 Church Extension Fund, Nominations CEF President (One person to be elected) Mr. Kevin Schultz, Good Shepherd, Sherman C: Chairman Board of Elders, Good Shepherd; former Chairman of Congregation D: CEF, 2009-present O: Hickory Point Bank, Senior Vice President Commercial Banking Trustee, Village of Sherman, Illinois, 1997-present; Springfield Chamber of Commerce; American Business Club of Springfield. * I have 30 years of experience lending and providing Cash Management Services to commercial clients. This background will provide additional input as the Church Extension Fund evaluates loan requests. CEF Vice President (One person to be elected) Mr. Kim Kleinschmidt, Zion Lincoln C: Good Shepherd Lutheran Church, Minier, President 1980s; Trinity Lutheran Church, Arenzville, Elder 2004-2007; Zion Lutheran Church, Lincoln, President 2011-2013 D: CEF President 2006 to present O: Villa Grove Chamber of Commerce, President 1992; Treasurer 1997-2001; Illinois Bankers Association board of Directors 1998-2002 * I have 38 years of banking experience, with 22 years serving as a community bank CEO CEF Secretary/Treasurer (One person to be elected) Cheryl Martin, Zion Mt. Pulaski D: Trustee, CEF Board of Trustees, 2006 to present; Secretary/Treasurer, 2006 to present O: Greater Springfield Chamber of Commerce, Secretary/Treasurer of the Board of Directors; Partner, Kerber, Eck & Braeckel LLP, a regional accounting firm, CPA licensed in Illinois and Missouri; CEF (Certified Fraud Examiner) CEF Board of Trustees--Minister of Religion, Ordained or Commissioned (Two persons to be elected) Rev. Stephen Gillet, St. Paul, Wheeler/St. John Dieterich C: Pastor, St. Paul Wheeler/St. John Dieterich 1999-present Hope Lutheran Church, Tonasket, WA 1995-1999 D: CID CEF 2006-present 2015 Convention Section G – Church Extension Fund Page G-4 O: * * Family Life Pregnancy Center, Effingham, 2002-2004, 2013-present, Board member 2004-present Illinois State Police Chaplain, District 12, 2003-present I believe supporting our district with our total stewardship is important, allowing congregations to have a way to borrow money for expansion is very important. Helping find the best candidates to serve offices is important for the future of the district. I will use my abilities to serve Christ and pray that I am effective in His work. I don't know everything, but am willing to learn. Rev. Terrence E. O'Brien, St. Paul, Pana C: Pastor, St. Paul since July 19, 2009 to present (seminary graduation 2009); Trinity Lutheran Church Springfield, Illinois, Asst. Secretary, Chairman, Trinity Athletic Committee; Living Word Lutheran Church, Woodlands, Texas, Assimilation Team. D: District Endowment Fund Board, 2012-present O: Prior to entering Seminary (Fort Wayne) I was employed for 33 years by The Franklin Life Insurance Company (later American General Life) in a management position for advertising, promotions and public relations. I also served as a Board member, Loan Officer and Publicity Director of the Franklin Life Employees Credit Union for approximately ten years (exact dates unknown - 1980a and 1990s). At that time the Credit Union had approximately 1000 members and assets in excess of $2 million dollars. I served on a three-person loan committee and was responsible for reviewing and approving/denying all loan applications submitted to the Credit Union. During these years I had extensive experience with management of loan activities in a successful institution. Other past volunteer activities included serving in multiple roles for the United Way and membership in Springfield Chamber of Commerce committees. Rev. Terry Strom, Trinity Urbana C: Congregations served: Trinity Urbana, October 2006 to present; Trinity Cissna Park, Illinois, April 1997 to October 2006; El Buen, McAllen, Texas, July 1995 to April 1997. Treasurer, Peace Lutheran Church, 1984-1990. D: CID-CEF Special Loan Committee Circuit Counselor, Danville Circuit, 2001-2006 Circuit Counselor, Champaign Circuit, 2008-2012 Various Floor Committees for CID Conventions LWML CID pastoral Counselor, 4 years LWML Zone Pastoral Counselor Pastoral Delegate LCMS Convention, 2004 & 2010 O: Vice President, Board of Directors, Prairieview Lutheran Nursing Home, 6 years. Treasurer, Cissna Park Community Library Board, 8 years. Chairman, Citizen's Advisory Council of Cissna Park School, 4 years. Mentor, Urbana School District, 5 years. * I have been a member of the CID all but 2 years of my life when I served the congregation in McAllen, Texas. I am a second career pastor. My first career was in the accounting field. My last job before entering the ministry was as 2015 Convention Section G – Church Extension Fund Page G-5 vice-president/comptroller for 150 million dollar credit union (7 years). We must be cautious during these difficult financial times and as many churches are shrinking in size yet we need to look for new ways to help fund the mission. If elected, I will serve with love, wisdom and faith provided by the grace of God. CEF Board Trustees (Two persons to be elected) Mr. Dale Wolff, Immanuel Lutheran Church, Altamont, Illinois C: President and Elder, Immanuel Altamont: Altamont Lutheran Interparish School Board, President. D: CID Educational Endowment Committee; Lutheran Church of Venezuela, Agriculturalist. O: Effingham County, Asst. States Attorney, 1977-1978; Effingham Title Company, Owner and title examiner, 1983-2006; Illinois Land Title Association, State President; Effingham Chamber of Commerce, former President; Effingham County Vision 2020 Facilitator/Trainer; St. Anthony Hospital, Review/Ethics Committee; Illinois Supreme Court, Committee on Character and fitness for the Fifth Judicial District, 2005-2014; currently serve as Ombudsman for the Judges of the Fourth Judicial Circuit of Illinois. Currently employed as an attorney for the law firm of McDivitt, Osteen, Chojnicki and Dean with offices in Effingham and Altamont. 2015 Convention Section G – Church Extension Fund Page G-6 Church Extension Fund, Resolutions Resolution 15-CEF-01 To Recognize Rev. Charles Olander WHEREAS, Rev. Charles Olander has faithfully served the Central Illinois District Church Extension Fund for the past twelve years as Trustee and Vice President; and WHEREAS, Rev. Charles Olander’s services were valuable to the Fund as it progressed through these difficult economic times; and WHEREAS, Rev. Charles Olander has reached term limits; therefore be it Resolved, that the Central Illinois District Church Extension Fund in convention recognize and thank Rev. Charles Olander for his faithful service to the Extension Fund. And be it finally Resolved, that the Central Illinois District Church Extension Fund present to Rev. Charles Olander a plaque recognizing his outstanding service to the District and the Fund. CEF Resolution 15-CEF-02 To Recognize Mr. Danny Magelitz WHEREAS, Danny Magelitz has faithfully served the Central Illinois District Church Extension Fund for the past twelve years as Trustee, and WHEREAS, Danny Magelitz’s services were valuable to the Fund as it progressed through these difficult economic times, and WHEREAS, Danny Magelitz has reached term limits, therefore be it Resolved, that the Central Illinois District Church Extension Fund in convention recognize and thank Danny Magelitz for his faithful service to the Extension Fund, and be it finally Resolved, that the Central Illinois District Church Extension Fund present to Danny Magelitz a plaque recognizing his outstanding service to the District and the Fund. 2015 Convention Section G – Church Extension Fund Page G-7 Church Extension Fund, Bylaw Revision BYLAWS CENTRAL ILLINOIS DISTRICT CHURCH EXTENSION FUND INC. ARTICLE I - NAME, DURATION, REGISTERED OFFICE, AND AGENT A. The name of the corporation shall be the CENTRAL ILLINOIS DISTRICT CHURCH EXTENSION FUND, INC., a Not For Profit Corporation. B. The period of duration of the corporation is perpetual. C. The address of the registered office of the corporation is 1850 North Grand Avenue West, Springfield, Illinois 62702-1626. D. The registered agent of the corporation shall be the Executive Director of the Central Illinois District Church Extension Fund. ARTICLE II - OBJECTIVES The purpose of this corporation is to aid the member congregations and agencies of the Central Illinois District (“District”) of the Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod (“LCMS”) (“Synod”) to finance or to refinance the acquisition of land; the purchase, erection and improvement of facilities; and for their operational needs, for effective programs of ministry, witness, outreach, and service for the expansion of God's Kingdom in the Central Illinois District of the Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod. The Constitution of the Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod and the applicable provision of Bylaws governing the Central Illinois District will govern this corporation. ARTICLE III - MEMBERSHIP The membership of the Church Extension Fund (“CEF”) shall be the member congregations of the Central Illinois District of the Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod, under the Constitution of the Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod. 3.01 MEMBERSHIP RECEPTION Reception of congregations into membership of the Synod in the Central Illinois District constitutes reception into membership in the Church Extension Fund. 3.02 CONVENTION ACCREDITING OF DELEGATES A convention shall be held triennially to conduct necessary business. Accredited delegates of the Church Extension Fund in convention shall be the accredited delegates of the District in convention. Delegates are elected by each parish and consist of one Pastor and one layman. ARTICLE IV - POWERS The Church Extension Fund shall have legal powers to buy, sell, receive by gift, hold, manage, control, mortgage, lease, loan or otherwise receive and dispose of real and personal property and franchises hereafter acquired by this corporation on behalf of the mission, ministry and work of the District and its member congregations. CEF shall have the power to participate by either buying or selling all or a portion of loans with the other CEF districts and/or the Lutheran Church Extension Fund, St. Louis. 2015 Convention Section G – Church Extension Fund Page G-8 ARTICLE V - ADMINISTRATION 5.01 OFFICERS The elective officers of the Church Extension Fund shall be the following: a President, a Vice-President and a Secretary-Treasurer. 5.02 BOARD AND COMMITTEES The board and committees of the Church Extension Fund to be elected or appointed shall be the following: 5.03 5.04 5.05 5.06 A. Elected by the Delegate Convention of the Church Extension Fund. A Board of Trustees (7 members) B. Appointed by the Board of Trustees. 1. The Audit Committee. 2. The Church Extension Fund Special Loan Committee. 3. The Nominating Committee TERM OF OFFICE A. The term of office for all officers and members of the Board of Trustees and all committees shall be three years. B. Newly elected officers and members of the Board of Trustees and committees shall assume office within 45 days after their election or appointment. SUCCESSIVE TERMS A. All officers and members of the Board of Trustees and all committees shall be limited to four successive terms. B. Any officer or member of a board or committee, who is ineligible for re-election or reappointment, may be elected or appointed to any other position, or to the same office, board or committee after an interval of three years. VACANCIES A. Any vacancy occurring in any elective office, board or committee shall be filled by appointment of the President with the approval of the Board of Trustees in the respective classification of Minister of Religion - Ordained or Commissioned, or layman. B. The member thus appointed shall serve out the term of the person succeeded. If the unexpired term is less than 1 1/2 years, it shall not prevent re-election for four successive terms thereafter. ELECTIONS A. The offices of the Board of Trustees shall be filled in the following manner by the Church Extension Fund in convention. The President The Vice-President The Secretary-Treasurer Four board of Trustee Members 2015 Convention Section G – Church Extension Fund Page G-9 Of the seven members, at least two (2) shall be Ministers of Religion, Ordained or Commissioned. 5.07 5.08 5.09 5.10 5.11 SUNDRY REGULATIONS A. The fiscal year of the Church Extension Fund shall end on December 31. B. The Board of Trustees and the appointed committees shall conduct their business in accordance with Robert’s Rules of Order Newly Revised. C. All officers, boards and committees and personnel shall surrender all official records and equipment in their custody to their successors at the time their successor assumes the office they vacate. D. The Board of Trustees and all Committees shall be accountable to the Church Extension Fund in convention . THE PRESIDENT OF THE CHURCH EXTENSION FUND-DUTIES A. The President shall make an official report to the Church Extension Fund at its convention. B. The President shall be an ex-officio member of all committees of the Church Extension Fund as may be appointed, except the Audit and Special Loan and Nominating Committees. C. All legal documents are to be signed by the President, Secretary-Treasurer or the Executive Director as authorized by the Board of Trustees. D. The President shall perform all additional duties which the Church Extension Fund in convention places upon him under its resolutions. IF THE PRESIDENT IS UNABLE TO SERVE A. In the event the President is unable to serve for any reason, or he vacates the office, the VicePresident shall serve as Acting President until the election at the next regular convention. B. In the event the Vice-President is unable to serve as Acting President, the Secretary-Treasurer shall serve in such capacity. THE VICE-PRESIDENT – DUTIES A. When the office of the President is vacated for any reason stated, the Vice-President shall assume the duties and responsibilities set forth in paragraphs 5.08(A) through (D) of these Bylaws. B. The Vice-President shall, upon request of the President, or as specially directed by the Church Extension Fund Bylaws, convention resolutions and the Board of Trustees, as in these Bylaws authorized, advise, assist, or represent the President. C. The Vice-President shall perform the duties of the President in the event the President becomes incapacitated or the President's office is vacated by death, resignation, or removal for cause. THE SECRETARY-TREASURER-QUALIFICATIONS The Secretary-Treasurer shall be a layperson, qualified in accounting and good business practices. 5.12 THE SECRETARY-TREASURER – DUTIES 2015 Convention Section G – Church Extension Fund Page G-10 5.13 5.14 A. The Secretary-Treasurer shall be responsible for recording the proceedings of all Board of Trustees meetings, sign all legal documents and instruments when necessary, and perform such other work as the Church Extension Fund may direct through its Bylaws, regulations, or resolutions. B. The Secretary-Treasurer shall be responsible for the receipt, safeguarding, and proper disbursement of Church Extension Fund funds through the establishment of appropriate procedures, systems, records, and internal controls. C. The Secretary-Treasurer shall be responsible for the establishment of one or more bank accounts as authorized by the Board of Trustees and shall establish proper safeguarding for the care and custody of securities, documents, and other legal or valuable papers in one or more safe-deposit boxes or other depository or files, as authorized by the Board of Trustees. D. The Secretary-Treasurer shall prepare such financial statements, budgets, statistics, report of repayments and related data requested by the Board of Trustees, or as appropriate in the operation of the Church Extension Fund's business. E. The Secretary-Treasurer shall be responsible for carrying out the investment policy adopted and authorized by the Board of Trustees. F. The Secretary-Treasurer shall attend the meetings of the Board of Trustees and all meetings pertaining to the financial and investment affairs of the Church Extension Fund, and provide the financial data and information, as requested. G. The Secretary-Treasurer may utilize the services of the Executive Director in carrying out these responsibilities. MEMBERSHIP OF THE BOARD OF TRUSTEES A. The Board of Trustees shall be constituted, as follows: The President, the Vice-President, and the Secretary-Treasurer of the Church Extension Fund; and four trustees. Of the seven member board, at least two members must be Ministers of Religion, Ordained or Commissioned. B. The Executive Director and the President of the District or his designee shall be advisory, nonvoting members of the Board of Trustees. C. Every member of the Board shall be a member of a voting congregation of the District. When a member of the Board ceases to be a member of a voting congregation of the District or when the nature of his major duties is such that he no longer is a member of the classification from which he was elected, his membership on the Board of Trustees is automatically terminated. CONFLICT OF INTEREST PROHIBITED A. No officer, director, board or committee member of the Church Extension Fund or member of any agency of the District shall use his/her position or knowledge acquired from his/her service thereon that will conflict with his personal and business interests and the interests of the Central Illinois District of the Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod and the Church Extension Fund. B. No officer or member of the Church Extension Fund Board of Trustees or any committee member shall enter into gainful business directly or indirectly, with any board or committee on which he serves. C. No officer or member of the Church Extension Fund Board of Trustees or Audit Committee may serve on the CEF Special Loan Committee or the Board of Directors of the District. 2015 Convention Section G – Church Extension Fund Page G-11 5.15 ADDITIONAL COMMITTEES The Board of Trustees may appoint additional committees and personnel as may be needed from time to time, to carry out the objectives of the Church Extension Fund. All such appointments shall terminate at the will of the Board of Trustees. 5.16 5.17 5.18 MEETINGS A. The Board of Trustees shall meet at least four times a year and additionally at the call of the President of the Church Extension Fund, or three members of the Board of Trustees. A majority of the Board members shall constitute a quorum. All expenses incurred shall be paid by the Church Extension Fund. B. The Secretary-Treasurer shall be responsible for accurate minutes of each meeting of the Board of Trustees. Copies of the minutes shall be sent to all regular and advisory members of the Board and to the Audit Committee following each meeting of the Board of Trustees. FINANCIAL DUTIES OF THE BOARD A. The Board shall bond or insure the officers and such employees of the Church Extension Fund as it deems advisable. B. The President, Vice-President, Secretary-Treasurer and Executive Director are the authorized signatories, as each may be directed by the Board of Trustees, for all financial, legal and contractual matters of the Church Extension Fund, pursuant to a written resolution of the Board of Trustees authorizing the transaction and naming those authorized to sign. C. The Board of Trustees shall approve the budget for the next fiscal year at its final meeting of the current fiscal year. POWERS AND DUTIES OF THE BOARD OF TRUSTEES WITH RESPECT TO THE PROPERTY OF THE CHURCH EXTENSION FUND A. The Board of Trustees shall have the power to transact the business of the Church Extension Fund between conventions, always, however, subject to the Bylaws and policies of the Church Extension Fund. B. The Church Extension Fund is hereby empowered to hold, purchase, and sell property, real and personal, make loans, hold, and give and take mortgages. 2015 Convention Section G – Church Extension Fund Page G-12 C. 5.19 5.20 In the purchase of property at a cost in excess of $750,000, such purchase must be approved by the delegates of the Church Extension Fund in convention, or by the approval of 2/3 of the members of the Church Extension Fund Special Loan Committee. OTHER BOARD DUTIES A. The Board of Trustees shall be accountable to the delegate convention of the Church Extension Fund and shall present a complete report of its actions at each CEF convention. Appeals of any decision of the Board of Trustees, may be taken to the Church Extension Fund in convention and the action of the convention on such appeal shall be final. B. No action shall be taken by the Trustees which is contrary to or in conflict with the Constitution and Bylaws of the Central Illinois District or the Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod. EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR A. The Board of Trustees shall appoint the Executive Director who will serve as directed by the Board of Trustees and these Bylaws. B. DUTIES 1. PROPERTY MANAGEMENT: The Executive Director shall periodically inspect all property of the Church Extension Fund, or the property on which it holds a mortgage or is under contract and shall recommend to the Board of Trustees items in need of repair and maintenance, and recommend and obtain its authorization thereon. A property maintenance manager may be appointed to assist the Executive Director, to work under his supervision, when deemed necessary by the Board of Trustees. 2. LEGAL RESPONSIBILITIES: The Executive Director shall supervise the safekeeping of the deeds, notes, mortgages, abstracts and title policies, and related papers and records on all Church Extension Fund owned or mortgaged property. He shall be responsible to the Board of Trustees in negotiating and finalizing all purchases of property and mortgage loans authorized by the Board of Trustees and is authorized to retain legal counsel, appraisers, engineers and other expert assistance required. The Executive Director may also sign contracts, deeds, notes and mortgages, and such documents as may be required, as authorized by the Board of Trustees. 3. LOAN MAINTENANCE: The Executive Director shall keep a current file on each Church Extension Fund loan and shall be responsible for the servicing of all mortgage loans, including receipt of payments thereon and the enforcement of payment. 4. INSURANCE MANAGEMENT: The Executive Director shall be held responsible for seeing that all property owned, controlled, and on which Church Extension Fund holds a mortgage, is adequately insured. To that end, he shall investigate and determine the amount of insurance required, the available market for the coverage required, the premiums therefore, and thereby provide the Board of Trustees with a full report on coverage required on each property, the availability of the coverage, both as to fire and extended coverage and personal injury and property damage and other insurance which may be required to adequately protect the Church Extension Fund against loss. 5. OTHER PROPERTY MANAGEMENT: The Executive Director shall make certain that the property taxes are paid, if any and that exemptions are applied for when eligible under Illinois law. 6. OFFICE MANAGEMENT: The Executive Director shall serve as office manager for the Church Extension Fund office and shall, from time to time, recommend to the Board of 2012 Convention Section G – Church Extension Fund Page G-13 Trustees the required maintenance for the facilities, make his recommendation and obtain its authorization to purchase supplies, employ clerical and secretarial help. 7. 5.21 ASSISTING THE SECRETARY-TREASURER: The Executive Director shall, in accord with the accounting standards established by the Board of Trustees, assist and work under the Secretary-Treasurer's supervision with respect to the receipt, custody, recording and disbursement of Church Extension Fund funds. He shall handle and supervise business matters pertaining to receipts and deposits, the issuance of receipts, check preparation and signing, preparation and signing of investment certificates and other deposits, correspondence and such other duties as may be assigned by the Secretary-Treasurer. He shall process all mortgage loan applications in accord with the established qualification and loan limits. THE AUDIT COMMITTEE A. MEMBERSHIP: The Audit Committee should consist of at least three laymen who are qualified as auditors with accounting and related experience, at least one of whom shall be a certified public accountant. Nothing in these Bylaws shall prevent the Audit Committee of the Church Extension Fund from being the Audit Committee of the Central Illinois District, nor shall anything in these Bylaws require the Audit Committee of the Church Extension Fund to be the Audit Committee of the Central Illinois District. B. DUTIES: The Audit Committee should meet in mid-year with the Secretary-Treasurer and the Executive Director to review records, vouchers, instruments, cash and bank balances, notes, receivable and payable, loans and mortgages, insurance papers, and such other financial documents as bear upon the responsibilities of the Church Extension Fund to its depositors, and shall submit its report to the Board of Trustees of Church Extension Fund. C.B. OUTSIDE AUDITS: The Audit Committee should annually, or more frequently at the request of the Board of Trustees, engage a firm of Certified Public Accountants (CPA) to shall ensure a Certified Public Accountants (CPA) firm is engaged to audit the books and financial records of the Church Extension Fund and such other funds and financial records as the Audit Committee or Board in their judgment may consider appropriate. The Audit Committee shall review the audit reports as submitted by the independent CPA firm, and may prepare a report of recommendations to the Board of Trustees and the Church Extension Fund in convention. At least annually, notice shall be given to each congregation within the District that a copy of the latest audit is available from the Church Extension Fund office. Upon request from a congregation, a copy or copies of the report shall be supplied. D. 5.22 BONDING: The Audit Committee should recommend to the Board the amount and form of a fidelity bond or insurance which should be maintained on the Secretary-Treasurer, Executive Director, employees and other persons who occupy a fiduciary responsibility, as may be deemed appropriate by the Board of Trustees. THE CHURCH EXTENSION FUND SPECIAL LOAN COMMITTEE A. MEMBERSHIP: The CEF Special Loan Committee shall consist of seven (7) members from District congregations with expertise in real estate, banking and related areas. The Committee shall be appointed by the President of the CEF Board, subject to the approval of the Board of Trustees, within 45 days following the Church Extension Fund Convention. A majority of the committee shall constitute a quorum. B. DUTIES: The Committee is to review the loan applications which are in excess of the approved dollar limitations which have been established in the loan policy. The Committee’s recommendations thereon shall be reported to the Board of Trustees for such action as it may deem appropriate. 2012 Convention Section G – Church Extension Fund Page G-14 C. 5.23 5.24 REGULATIONS: No member of the Committee may be a member of any other Church Extension Fund or District Board or Committee; may vote on any loan application and/or project in which his or her congregation is involved, or in which the member has a financial interest in the project, or has, in any way, a connection with the loan application or project which can affect, or can be perceived to affect, his or her independent judgment. NOMINATIONS A. The Church Extension Fund Nominations Committee may nominate two candidates each for the President, Vice-President, Secretary-Treasurer, and each of the Board positions. B. Candidates for membership on the Board should be nominated so as to give equal representation, as nearly as practicable, to the various circuits of the District. C. No two members of the same congregation or any two members of the same immediate family may be a member of the Board of Trustees at the same time. Same family would include spouse and children. D. The Nominations Committee shall present their nominees to the convention for adoption or amendment. The report shall provide pertinent information on each candidate presented. Additional nominations may be made from the floor. Nominees shall then be listed in alphabetical order for each position. Incumbents may be so designated. BALLOT After adoption of the nominations by the convention, the Nominations Committee shall prepare the ballots on which the election shall proceed. 5.25 ORDER OF NAMES ON BALLOT The names and congregational affiliation of the candidates in all elections shall be placed on the ballot in alphabetical order for each position. 5.26 ELECTIONS A. The elections shall proceed as follows: The President, Vice-President, Secretary-Treasurer and then the remaining Trustees. The elections may be held concurrently. B. Tie vote: In case of a tie vote to any of the offices the names of 15 delegates shall be drawn from a container containing the names of all the accredited delegates, to vote for one of the candidates. C. Proxy: There shall be no voting by proxy for any Church Extension Fund officers, trustees, or on any action taken by the convention. ARTICLE VI - AMENDMENTS TO BYLAWS 6.01 AMENDMENTS TO BYLAWS Amendments may be made to the Bylaws, provided they are: A. Not contrary to the Constitution and Bylaws of the Central Illinois District or the Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod; B. Presented in writing to the Church Extension Fund in convention; 2012 Convention Section G – Church Extension Fund Page G-15 C. Adopted by the affirmative vote of a majority of the delegates present and voting. 6.02 RESOLUTIONS FROM MEMBER CONGREGATIONS Revised: A. Miscellaneous resolutions and appeals by member congregations or pastors, other than for mission grants, may be presented to convention upon approval by the Board of Directors. Such resolutions shall be sent to the CEF President at the CEF business office at least 90 days prior to a convention. Resolutions affecting the bylaws must pass by a majority vote. Resolutions affecting the Articles of Incorporation must pass by a 2/3 majority vote of the delegates present. B. Resolutions, in writing, may be submitted to the Chairman during the first 15 minutes of a convention by an official lay person or pastoral delegate and be considered by the convention delegates at a time deemed appropriate by the President. Written resolutions made from the floor, may be altered by the chairperson and must be approved by a 2/3 majority vote of the delegates present. July 10, 2006 July 6, 2009 July 9, 2012 2012 Convention Section G – Church Extension Fund Page G-16 CID CHURCH EXTENSION FUND BALANCE SHEET YEARS 2012, 2013, 2014 Account Title Assets Hickory Point Money Mkt Hickory Point Checking Acct Loans Receivable Accounts Receivable Accrued Interest Receivable -‐ Loans Uncollectible Loan Reserve Investment -‐ S ecurity Bank F inancial Investment -‐ HPB/Raymond James LCEF Mortgage Loan Pool Investment -‐ Havana Investment -‐ LCEF Restricted Investment -‐ LCEF LCEF -‐ Steward Account Accrued Interest Receivable -‐ Investments Prepaid Insurance Total Current Assets Property & Equipment Equipment PCS Equipment PCS Software Accumulated Depreciation Total Property & Equipment Total Assets Liabilities & Capital Current Liabilities Backup Withholding Payable Accrued Interest Payble -‐ Certificates Outstanding Security Bank Checks Accrued Audit Fee Mortgage Interest Rebates Payable Stamps Payable Loans Payable -‐ Certificates Loans Payable -‐ F lex Growth Bonds Payable Ministry Outreach Grant Payable Board Grants Payable Total Current Liabilities 2012 Convention 2014 167,387 1,295,451 17,418,249 0 -‐8,902 840,000 2,100,000 2,250,000 1,883,000 300,000 12,826,609 380,104 350,000 74,053 18,141 $38,214,092 16,616 47,986 67,657 121,229 $11,031 $38,225,124 140 118,962 0 5,650 300,000 35,316 28,599,903 513,282 84,841 18,202 49,632 $29,725,928 2013 448,497 777,212 18,726,783 246 -‐15,204 840,000 1,850,000 750,000 3,069,500 300,000 12,913,714 293,000 550,000 78,948 17,414 $38,920,110 16,616 47,986 67,657 118,299 $13,961 $38,934,071 0 136,905 1,003 5,500 200,000 35,750 29,603,908 454,204 90,511 10,275 108,759 $30,646,815 Section G – Church Extension Fund 2012 1,005,151 780,964 21,672,439 0 -‐23,524 705,000 0 0 4,000,000 300,000 11,664,444 293,000 1,150,000 75,813 8,339 $40,221,627 18,187 35,055 67,657 103,138 $17,763 $40,239,389 0 184,027 1,003 6,625 50,000 35,848 31,568,480 383,035 87,483 0 99,735 $32,416,236 Page G-17 Capital Net Assets Net Income Total Capital 8,283,865 215,331 $8,499,196 Total Liabilities & Capital $38,225,124 Capital/Asset Ratio 7,919,443 7,732,277 367,813 90,876 $8,287,256 $7,823,153 $38,934,071 $40,239,389 22.23% 21.29% 19.44% 2012 Convention Section G – Church Extension Fund Page G-18
