Q - Michigan In Touch Online

michigan
OCTOBER 2014
A publication of the Michigan District of The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod
The Lutheran Witness Michigan District, LCMS Supplement
IN TOUCH
BeHEALTHY church WORKERS
Teachers for Global
Classrooms
Beverly Feldkamp teaches Social Studies and Latin at
Saginaw Valley Lutheran High School. This past March,
she had an opportunity to travel to Ghana. The following
is an interview with her by Michigan In Touch Editorial
Manager Debby Fall.
When you think back to your teaching opportunity in
Ghana, what images come to mind?
od is Love Chop Shop, 1,600 girls lined up for morn
ing assembly, fish head soup, Pastor Joseph
Bart-Plange of St. John Lutheran Church, the Door of
No Return at Cape Coast Castle—these are just a few of
the of images that come to mind when asked about my
experiences in Ghana. I was blessed with the opportunity to travel to Ghana, West Africa for two weeks with
G
continued on page 2
Photo: Monday Morning Assembly at Archbishop Porter Secondary
School for Girls, Takoradi, Ghana
michigan
IN TOUCH
Rev. Dr. David P. E. Maier, President
Debby Fall, Editorial Manager
Seth Hinz, Web/Media Director
Official Periodical of the Michigan District
of The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod
October 2014, Volume 13. No. 9
ISSN: 1538-8115 (print)
ISSN: 2331-8619 (online)
Mike Beens, Art Director
Elisa Schulz, Copy Editor
©2014 Michigan District, LCMS, Ann Arbor, Michigan. Michigan In Touch is published
monthly by the Michigan District and inserted into The Lutheran Witness and distributed
to subscribers 11 times a year. It is also available online at www.michiganintouch.com.
Reproduction of articles is permissible with written permission of the Michigan District
Communications Department and should give credit to Michigan In Touch. References
to resources and websites for further information are included in Michigan In Touch for
the potential use by individuals and congregations. Resources not associated with or
published by The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod or Concordia Publishing House® may
contain helpful programmatic information but may vary in doctrine from The Lutheran
Church—Missouri Synod. Please use discretion or consult your pastor on doctrinal issues.
Michigan District, LCMS
3773 Geddes Rd
Ann Arbor, MI 48105
888.225.2111
[email protected]
www.michigandistrict.org
Table of Contents
1
3
5
6
10
11
12
12
15
16
16
Healthy Church Workers
Great Commission Ministry
Great Compassion Ministry
Healthy Congregations
Congregation News
New Media
Other News
Special Recognition
LLL/LWML
Calls and Roster Update
Calendar of Events
www.michiganintouch.com
1
Healthy church Workers
twelve other teachers as part of an IREX program called
Teachers for Global Classrooms (TGC).
What is IREX/Teachers for Global Classrooms?
his program for middle and high school teachers is
sponsored by the US Department of State’s Bureau
of Educational and Cultural Affairs and is also connected
with the Fulbright program. The goal is to help teachers become better global educators and bring the world
to their classrooms and their classrooms
to the world. This happens through online
education, collaboration among teachers, a
Washington, D.C. symposium, and international travel.
T
How did you become part of TGC?
became part of the program through a
Social Studies ListServe to which I
subscribe. The program received over 400
applicants and only seventy were chosen
to participate in this yearlong program that
culminates with an international teaching
experience.
I
How are you planning to implement this
teaching experience into your everyday
classroom?
am excited to put into practice many of the
elements of this experience. I have learned
from other teachers and will “steal” some of
their ideas as well as continue to refine the
unit I developed on World Hunger. Since I
teach Global Issues, a global focus education
is already happening. However, I see a great
advantage to connecting my students to other
students around the world and am working
on something with Archbishop Porter School
and maybe St. John’s Lutheran school in
Takoradi. My biggest goal is to make sure my
students understand that people are people
all over the world with the same needs and
desires, just in very different circumstances.
I
Were you able to share your faith in word and
deed?
ne of the most interesting aspects of my
work in Ghana was the element of
faith. Ghana was a British colony, and the earliest schools
were started as “mission” schools more than a century
ago. Although the government has taken over these
schools as “public” schools, the religious element is still
very evident. There are Anglican, Wesleyan, Presbyterian
and Catholic schools that are now government schools.
The school in which I worked—Archbishop Porter
O
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September 2014
Secondary School for Girls in Takoradi—has deep
Catholic roots. Mass is celebrated every day, and on
Mondays all 1600 girls meet for assembly, devotions and
instruction. An entry from my blog (Ghana Gazetteer
www.bevfeldkamp.blogspot.com) illustrates this point:
“We were on the veranda with the headmistress looking down. The assembly began with prayer and some
instructions in English (the use of quite versus quiet)
so that they should stand in line quietly and
straighten their rows. Then some character
development: girls of character walk briskly
and with sense of purpose … the assembly
continued with 1,600 girls singing ‘What
a Friend We Have in Jesus’… same words,
slightly different but beautiful melody. Many
were amazed I could sing it without a hymnal.
How awesome to reiterate through song that
the same Jesus is the friend to an about-tobe grandmother from a small Lutheran high
school in Saginaw, Mich. and a fifteen year
old Ghanaian girl hundreds of miles away
from home at a “public” Catholic boarding
school in Takoradi, Ghana, West Africa.”
The government-printed textbooks include
values with the subject matter. For example,
an economic textbook had a lesson in trusting
God on a page facing a lesson on inflation.
I taught a lesson on world religions and was
freely able to talk about my faith. I was asked
by my sponsoring teacher to pray before
meals and before we began one of our sightseeing journeys. Evidence of the deep faith of
many Ghanaians was everywhere, even in the
names of stores such as “God is Love Chop
Shop” and “In His Time” market.
How were you personally enriched by the trip?
he trip had a great impact on me as I once
again realized the privilege and responsibility I have living in America and working
at Valley Lutheran. First, I realized that people
are people all over the world. Ghana is very
different culturally and economically, yet
the people are people of deep faith, and the
teenagers with whom I worked are the same
social beings (without all the social media) who want to
learn and do well as do most of my students. I think the
travel to a developing country showed me the blessings
that God has bestowed upon me and our country, and I
need to do more to fulfill some of my responsibility to be
a blessing. I have “adopted” a boy from Ghana through
Compassion International as I did with a little girl from
T
continued on page 14
Great commission ministry
LWML Michigan District Grant
gives HOPE for a City in Crisis
T
he LWML Michigan District 35th Biennial Conven
tion on July 18–20, 2014 granted the sum of $25,000
to enable the ministry of Acts 2 Enterprise (A2E) to have a
strong focus on, and to make a concerted, long-term effect
in the Detroit urban area; evangelizing and discipling the
city to strengthen the faithful and reach the lost with the
Good News of Jesus Christ. The $25,000 granted to A2E
was one of 12 proposals funded—out of the 26 total that
were submitted to the Convention in Kalamazoo.
Rev. Christopher Bodley at Soft Skills Training
“To be chosen as a recipient for a mission grant is quite
humbling and encouraging for the work which A2E is
committed to. We are deeply thankful for LWML’s commitment to being a co-laborer in the kingdom of God,” stated
Rev. Christopher Bodley, Missionary-at-Large for A2E.
What is A2E?
A2E is a strategic and holistic urban outreach initiative
of the Michigan District, LCMS based on the work of
Jesus and His disciples in the early church as recorded
in the book of Acts. The initiative was created to bring
help to one of the most challenging communities in
our country—the city of Detroit, Michigan—acknowledged as a “City in Crisis.” Its population has dropped
55 percent, from nearly 2 million a few decades ago to
well under 700,000 today. Many of those who remain are
trapped by a collapsed housing market and a depressed
economy where the unemployment rate remains near 20
percent. Social problems are magnified by a 40 percent
poverty rate and gang-related violence that has created
by Debby Fall
an environment consistently ranking Detroit as one
of the country’s most dangerous cities. Resources are
scarce and the problems are overwhelming. The people
of Detroit are in great need of health, hope, and healing.
Partnership and Strategy
Through partnerships with congregations, schools,
associations, RSOs, individuals and auxiliaries such
as the LWML Michigan District, A2E will continue its
work towards improving the living
and working environments of people
in the city of Detroit. Rev. Bodley
is employing a biblical strategy of
immersion in the culture, imitation of God, invitations to join, and
making an impact on the region. (See
1 Thessalonians 1:4-8).
Rev. Bodley shares, “I believe we
have been strategically positioned
in Detroit in order to conduct placebased ministry, which will allow us to
make a generational impact for the
kingdom of God.”
Other points of impact for A2E
include:
▪ Engaging the community through
education;
▪ Hosting a children’s Sports Camp/VBS; and
▪ Providing a Christ-centered presence in the community through beautification projects.
God is blessing the work. Thanks to the LWML
Michigan District for its visionary leadership in mission
and ministry that will continue to bless people in the city
of Detroit.
A previous grant from the Michigan District LWML significantly
impacted A2E as it was able to purchase a van for the ministry.
www.michiganintouch.com
3
Great commission ministry
Continuing the
Growth of God’s
Kingdom
by John Bush
S
ometime when you can, arrive at your church early.
Get there really early, before anyone else. Don’t
turn on the lights (unless it’s really dark) and stand alone
for a moment or two in the narthex. Close your eyes.
Take it all in.
What does your church smell like? Do you hear
anything at all? Is the temperature cold? Just by standing
there, how does it feel to you?
After you’ve stood quietly for a few minutes, begin
to walk up the main aisle to the chancel area. Notice the
carpeting and pause for a moment at the Communion
rail and let your mind wander. Think of the many, many
people who have received the precious Body and Blood
of our Lord Jesus Christ at that very spot. Some are no
longer among us…perhaps you think of a family member
or friend who has gone home to the Lord. Maybe you
remember the last time you received Holy Communion.
Now let your mind drift to the altar. Take it all in. Look
closely at it. You might remember your confirmation.
You may have stood in front of that altar on that confirmation day. Maybe it was the altar that you stood in front
of on your wedding day. You’ve seen this altar many
times but now it seems to come alive! It’s as though you
are seeing it for the very first time.
Now focus on the pulpit. Look at it. Touch it. What
does it feel like? Ever wonder what your pastor feels like
when he steps into the pulpit to proclaim God’s Word?
It could be that your congregation has had many anniversaries and your mind begins to think about the pastor
that baptized you or confirmed you or married you. You
think of the many sermons you’ve heard and baptisms
you’ve witnessed and funerals you have attended …
right here in your church.
You then begin to get a sense of pride on how your
congregation has been a great steward of the resources
God had blessed you with. You then reflect on the Words
of Christ, “Go therefore and make disciples of all nations,
baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the son
and of the Holy Spirit,” (Matthew 28:19 ESV) and you
begin to cherish these memories and this place even more.
You become thankful for that man that answered the Call
into Ministry and maybe a tear wells up in your eye.
You offer up a prayer of thanksgiving to God … you
thank Him for those who have gone before you and left
you this legacy, you thank Him for those that are with
you now and promise to tell others of this moment in
your life … and you thank Him for those yet unborn that
will come to know Him right here as you did. You thank
Him for the pastors you have known and for their faithfulness and their tireless work.
As you are about to leave, your eyes drift toward the
pulpit once again and you notice that it is empty. And
then you get this knot in your stomach … and wonder
about the next generation of pastors and the generation
after that, and you fear that maybe there won’t be one—
or enough—and you wonder what you can do.
The Michigan District began an Endowment Fund
many years ago. Its purpose is to continue the growth
of God’s Kingdom ensuring mission and ministry for
generations to come.
Contributions to the Michigan District Endowment
Fund will help ensure that pastors, teachers, Family Life
Ministers, DCEs, and music leaders are raised up through
LCMS universities and seminaries so that vacant pulpits
are filled along with classrooms, living rooms, youth
rooms, and the organ loft too.
If you would like to consider how you can become
involved, contact Ray Zavada at 734.213.4264 direct,
734.904.2773 cell, or [email protected]
to find out how you and others like you can grow ministry for tomorrow.
Rev. John L. Bush is the Director of Donor Relations for
Concordia University Ann Arbor and a member of the
Michigan District Endowment Fund Committee.
©iStockphoto.com/sidsnapper
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September 2014
Great comPASSION ministry
Renewed Hope
by Roy Peterson
Yet this I call to mind and therefore I have
hope: Because of the Lord’s great love we are
not consumed, for his compassions never fail.
They are new every morning; great is your
faithfulness. Lamentations 3:21-23 NIV
T
he passage above, recorded by
the prophet Jeremiah, serves
as the biblical basis for the 2014/15
academic year theme of “Renewed
Hope” at Concordia University Ann
Arbor (CUAA). Selected last spring
by student campus ministry leaders,
this theme is an important part of
spiritual life on campus.
I am often asked what motivates
students to select a particular scripture. This year is no exception.
Some have wondered what led our
students to a passage from the Old
Testament, especially from the book
of Lamentations.
Clearly, God was at work in the
hearts and minds of the students as
they chose these verses. The seniors
who were part of the process have
experienced the most amazing span
of years in the history of Concordia
and witnessed God’s faithfulness on
display.
When these students started their
college careers, CUAA was in
danger of closing its doors. Despite
that uncertainty, the incoming freshman began their studies with great
hope for the future and confidence
in God’s faithfulness. God, indeed,
was and is faithful. He rose up leaders and supporters to bring about a
renewed hope at Concordia.
Since then, these same students
have watched the student body
grow from barely 500 to over 800.
In addition, they have benefitted
from the use of buildings that, once
in disrepair, have been renewed and
prepared for decades of additional
service. During their time at CUAA,
current seniors were able to celebrate
upon the 50th anniversary of the dedication of CUAA’s campus. Praise be
to God for all of His blessings!
None of this would have been
possible without the help, support,
and encouragement of so many within
the Church, Church Extension Fund,
and the Michigan District, LCMS.
Knowing how important it is to have
Lutheran higher education in the
state, the District came alongside the
University leadership and expressed
the hope that we share in real and
tangible ways. The Michigan District,
and all of those who support it, has
been a vital partner in bringing about
the renewed hope that we have today.
Now several weeks into the
academic year, seniors are already
looking ahead to graduation in May.
While there is much that they do not
know about the future, one thing is
certain:“Because of the Lord’s great
love we are not consumed, for his
compassions never fail. They are new
every morning; great is your faithfulness” (Lamentations 3:21-23 NIV).
Rev. Dr. Roy Peterson is the Vice President of Advancement at Concordia University Wisconsin in Mequon, Wisconsin.
Photo: Erik M. Lunsford/The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod
www.michiganintouch.com
5
Healthy Congregations
Identifying Capable Counselors
for Your Parishioners
by Beverly Yahnke
P
astors are given the special joy and obligation to provide spiritual care for the sheep and lambs entrusted
to them by God. Yet as every pastor knows, there are
often souls who can profit from psychological assistance.
Pastors who detect counseling needs among parishioners
need to be able to suggest trusted counselors to whom
individuals can turn with confidence.
As pastors tend to spiritual matters, counselors tend
to matters of anxiety, depression and other disorders.
Mental health professionals teach a wide array of strategies that provide clear assistance to parents, spouses, and
children alike.
Six Suggestions to Locate a Trusted Counselor
Counselors also have critical diagnostic skills to detect
when an individual’s mental or emotional functioning
may merit special medical assistance. Pastors in rural
areas may realize that a parishioner requires psychological consultation, yet there are rarely professionals close
by. For quite a few pastors, locating a trusted counselor
can be a difficult undertaking. Hopefully the following suggestions can help identify capable professionals
available in your region:
1 Connect with your district office and ask if there are
reliable counselors to whom they refer church workers
with confidence. Many districts convene a “Ministerial
Health Committee” to respond to church workers’
special needs. There is often a counselor who serves on
that committee who could connect you with colleagues
in the mental health community. Visit http://www.michigandistrict.org/pcw/care/counselingresources.
2 Call a couple of your brother pastors within 50-100
miles and ask to whom they refer. It is a tremendous
help to connect with a counselor whom another pastor
has actually met, spoken with, or has endorsed with
confidence.
3 Call the closest priest and ask to whom he refers. (His
parishioners need capable professional care too.)
4 Call the largest university nearby, and connect with
the counseling department. Ask to whom they refer
students for ongoing mental health care.
5 Check out the website of the American Association
of Christian Counselors. It has a locator tool (www.aacc.
net/resources/find-a-counselor) that will assist you in
finding a Christian counselor within 50 miles of home.
(Naturally there are many flavors of “Christian” that
6
September 2014
are represented in the membership, although all profess
a Trinitarian creed). Never recommend any counselor
unless you have personally reviewed his or her web page
or, preferably, had a conversation with the individual you
will suggest to your parishioner.
6 Call your physician to determine if he or she has
developed a referral relationship with a psychologist.
Very often, GPs, OB/GYN offices and pediatricians have
identified a number of effective professionals that have
served their patients. A call to a nearby hospital (ER or
psychiatric unit) can also be helpful. Don’t be deterred
if the provider is not extremely close by. It would not be
unusual for an individual to need to travel a bit to attend
the first consultation (an intake interview) with the
therapist. Thereafter, many therapists are now providing Skype visits with their clients. Rural residents with
a computer, smartphone or tablet can connect electronically with their therapist for routine visits. Occasional
in-person visits might still be needed.
Before You Recommend Any Therapist to a
Parishioner
When you have the name of a professional, it is important to have a conversation with him or her. That will
allow you to tell your parishioner a bit about the counselor; the conversation will also increase your confidence
in making the referral.
continued on page 14
Immanuel
Rededicates
Sanctuary
after Flood
by Jon Bendewald
O
n January 10, 2014, a frozen pipe burst in
the sacristy of Immanuel, Bridgman,
sending over 5,000 gallons of water into the
sanctuary. “The City of Bridgman Water
Department showed us a spike in water use on
Thursday, January 9 at 6 pm, and our Parish
Nurse, Kathy Hanke, discovered the flood at
8:30 am on Friday,” said Joanne Reifschneider, the longtime church secretary. The devastating flood ruined the
carpet and floors. The base of the altar and baptismal font
were damaged. The legs of the pews wicked water and
needed repair.
The members of Immanuel and the Bridgman community rallied to remove pews, hymnals, banners, and
much more. Farm Bureau Insurance brought in ServPro
to mitigate the water damage. On Sunday, January 12,
the church family was able to hold services in their Life
Center. “The theme that Sunday was Jesus’ Baptism,”
said Pastor Jon Bendewald of Immanuel, “and we celebrated Allison Pagel’s Baptism as well. We had enough
water to immerse everyone!”
The church family held worship services in the Life
Center for seven months, including Easter. Leaders of the
congregation spent time in prayer seeking God's will and
purpose. A Sanctuary Task Force was organized to assess
damages and to seize opportunities. Gary Hettlinger, a
lifetime member, led the restoration, repair and planning effort. Gary had just retired from American Electric
July 29, 2014
Power as an outage foreman and was familiar with leading teams of people through tough circumstances. “We
have an obligation to the founders of our congregation, and to the next generation, to take good care of the
House of the Lord,” said Gary. He regularly led devotions before meetings using Psalm 115:1 as a reminder:
“Not to us, O LORD, not to us, but to Your name be the
glory, because of Your love and faithfulness.”
The pews were repaired, refinished and installed with
more egress. Six hundred feet of new heating pipes
replaced old, corroded pipes. New red garnet carpet
was laid, reflecting the many colors of the stained glass.
Ramps were added to make the approach to the Holy
Communion table handicap-accessible. Fifty padded
front row seats now offer flexibility and comfort. A platform with wood fins has replaced the lectern to better
facilitate the singing of God’s Word. Stonework was
placed behind the chancel cross as a reminder of the
resurrection victory of Jesus.
As the Holy Spirit worked in the hearts of faithful
members, they began to realize that the church is not so
much a building as it is a people—a redeemed, forgiven,
caring group of Christ-followers. Immanuel’s beautiful Sanctuary helps us to be God’s church—a family of
believers who are focused on Jesus and His mission for
us as His church in Bridgman and beyond. Immanuel
has moved forward with a repaired and updated sanctuary so we can offer excellence in our worship and be an
authentic community of Christ-followers. A re-dedication service was held on Sunday, August 10.
Rev. Jon D. Bendewald is the pastor at Immanuel,
Bridgman.
www.michiganintouch.com
7
Faith&
3rd Edition
Finance
A Dialogue on Faith-Based Investing with CEF
Faith and Finance is a series of discussions about the role CEF investments can
play in the lives of Lutheran parishioners and congregations. In each installment,
the CEF team addresses common questions about CEF and our financial
products. If you would like to submit a question for consideration, e-mail us at
[email protected].
Q:
A:
Q:
A:
8
September 2014
Is the only CEF office location in Ann Arbor?
Yes, and since we are a corporation of the Michigan District-LCMS, CEF
shares space with the District within the same building (right across the street
from Concordia University). Having just one location keeps CEF expenses
lower than if we maintained offices throughout the District. Currently, CEF
employs 13 individuals in Ann Arbor who provide assistance to our investors
and every congregation with loans.
Does my congregation invest through
the Church Extension Fund?
Most do. Approximately ¾ of Michigan
congregations have investments with
Church Extension Fund. Without
the support of the churches and
investors, the ministry of CEF would
be diminished, if not completely
immobilized. One product that many
Michigan District congregations use is
the ExtensionPlus. It allows immediate
access to the fund without penalty.
ExtensionPlus is also available to
individuals.
Q:
A:
Who can borrow from Church Extension Fund?
Congregations and other organizations of the Michigan District Lutheran ChurchMissouri Synod that are self-supporting and meet the lending criteria. Loans for
expansion and lines of credit, often used for operating expenses, are available
from Church Extension Fund.
Q:
A:
Q:
A:
Q:
A:
What are the current lending rates offered by Church Extension Fund?
Can I find this information online?
Interest rates on loans are not available
online. Since CEF was incorporated for
the benefit of the congregations, each
loan request is handled case by case
to achieve the lowest possible rates.
To obtain rates, congregations should
contact Ron or Jodi at our office, 800242-3944. Loan forms and applications
can be found online at www.mi-cef.org.
Can I get a loan from the Michigan
Church Extension Fund?
CEF does not loan money to individuals
directly. Mortgage loans are available for
Michigan District church workers through their congregation.
Contact CEF for more information on this type of Church Worker loan.
Does CEF offer internet banking?
Not at this time. Current customers can access their account information
using CEF Direct. Complete and current information on interest rates, account
balances, payment histories, principal and interest payments are available on
the Church Extension Fund website. Watch the CEF Direct Video by going to
direct.mi-cef.org/Demo/CEFDirectDemo.htm.
WHY CEF?
PROVEN investment products, measurable results
DEDICATED Christian financial management since 1901
FOCUSED on funding the needs of Michigan District congregations
Contact CEF today to learn
Church Extension Fund • Michigan District of The Lutheran Church–Missouri Synod
how CEF can help with your
3773 Geddes Road, Ann Arbor, MI 48105-3098 • www.mi-cef.org
retirement investments.
Offices: 800-242-3944 • Interest rates anytime: 800-232-7313
www.michiganintouch.com
9
Congregation News
150 Years and Counting!
Marking one hundred and fifty years in the city of
Sturgis, Trinity Lutheran Church celebrated a distinctive
milestone, its 150th anniversary, by holding a special
church service followed by a huge picnic, sprawled
across the front lawn of the church.
Hundreds of members, former members, previous
pastors, and families and friends gathered on Sunday,
July 27 to hear the day’s message delivered by former
Trinity pastor Rev. Dr. Robert P. Hoehner, who served
from 1995–98.
The service included the bell choir, adult choir, and a
processional with Rev. Hoehner and current pastors, Rev.
Russell Peterson and Rev. Calvin Kolzow. Adding to the
festivities, the Kolzow’s granddaughter was baptized.
After the service, members and guests left the sanctuary to enjoy the picnic. Each family received a packet,
which contained a history booklet of the church since
1864, a commemorative pen, name tags, and a ticket to
be used in drawings held during lunch.
“When this church began,” said Trinity’s administrative pastor, Russell Peterson, “our country was engaged
in the civil war. When you think about how much history
has taken place in those 150 years, especially here at
Trinity, it’s comforting to know that despite all the
changes there have been in the world, God’s Word has,
indeed, remained unchanged.”
After lunch, members and guests visited the gymnasium where tables of memorabilia were set up and
included photo albums, scrapbooks of news articles,
church registers complete from 1864 to the present,
hanging displays, old books, and ledgers.
Rev. Russell states, “Throughout every generation,
Trinity has cared for people weighed down by life and
suffering with a need to hear about Jesus. So, while we look
back and celebrate our rich history, we are also compelled
to continue to be that same relevant, thriving presence in
Sturgis—both presently and well into the future!”
The day ended in the church’s sanctuary with a singa-long of favorite old hymns, which was followed by a
closing prayer.
A large cake, featuring pictures of both the old and new church, was locally-created and served alongside a bounty of cupcakes and other treats.
10
September 2014
New Media
Using Hashtags
by Seth Hinz
H
SENT Conference Youth Serve Detroit
Neighborhood
This summer, Family of God and St. Stephen, Detroit
hosted a neighborhood cookout and children’s program
in conjunction with Lutheran Hour Ministries’ (LHM)
Outreach Conference. Sixteen LHM conference youth,
ages 14 –18, shared the Gospel with neighborhood
children through arts and crafts projects. More than 80
people were served a meal. Every family left with a box
of new energy-efficient light bulbs via the generosity of
DTE Energy.
Under the theme SENT, LHM’s biennial outreach
conference held July 24 –27 in Detroit energetically
empowered Christians, in particular LCMS members
and workers, to engage in a lifestyle of living out, and
speaking out, the Gospel of Jesus. This was a gathering
of people who desire to see the Gospel shared in their
communities and around the world, and be witness to the
Holy Spirit breathing new life into the lost. The conference speakers encouraged church workers and laity in
their desire to see their congregations grow, to learn,
network, and worship together. Its goal was to create a
momentum and a passion in attendees for evangelism in
their communities and around the world.
ashtags connect conversations on social media
networks like Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.
Conversations can happen around a single, one-time
event, or connect ongoing topics. Creating a hashtag is
easy: when you are sending out post through a social
network like Twitter, simply add “#” before any word
or phrase to make it a link. Following a conversation is
equally easy: click on the hashtag link and you will be
redirected to a newsfeed. You can also go to sites such as
http://twubs.com or search.twitter.com and type in the
hashtag.
For events, like the 2013 All Pastors’ Conference, we
encouraged pastors to add #apc13 to their tweets and posts
in order to link the ongoing conversation. For the 2014
High School Youth Gathering, entitled “Lighthouse,” we
used #lighthouse14. For general Michigan District news
and stories, we utilize the hashtag #miLCMS, so anyone
can click on the hashtag and easily view our previous
news stories. Any church could also use #miLCMS and
add their story to the conversation.
#PCWC14 Event Hashtag
For the 2014 Professional Church Workers’ Conference
(PCWC) being held October 12-15, 2014, we’ll be using
the hashtag #PCWC14. This hashtag will help to connect
the ongoing conversation, provide networking opportunities for attendees, and provide a searchable channel for
folks at home to track the conversation.
If you are attending PCWC this year, please use the
hashtag #PCWC14 to connect and network with fellow
church workers. If you are unable to attend, you can track
the Twitter conversation by heading to: http://twubs.
com/pcwc14.
Be sure to follow the Michigan District, LCMS on
Twitter—our handle is @miLCMS (the direct link is
http://www.twitter.com/miLCMS). See you online!
www.michiganintouch.com
11
other news
Grant and Loan Program for
Technology
Church Extension Fund (CEF)
has developed and announced
the Grant and Loan Program
for Technology in an effort to
further advance its mission of
helping churches carry forward
the Great Commission.
Ron Steinke, President and
CEO, reported, “The CEF
Board of Trustees has adopted
this special program to share the blessings of financial
growth and strength with all the congregations in the
Michigan District, LCMS.”
The Grant for Technology Program reimburses any
Michigan District congregation with a gift of up to $1,000
to help pay for the purchase of new equipment for use in
the church or school. Additionally, CEF will grant a 10%
reimbursement of dollars spent on technology over and
above the first $1,000!
The Loan Program for Technology is a low-interest
loan at 2.25%, for up to five years, given to congregations
desiring to purchase technology equipment in addition
to the funds provided by the grant. A technology loan is
not necessary to receive the grant monies available from
Detroit Lutheran Singers Fall Concerts
Sacred Pairings is the title chosen by Director
Christopher Hall for two fall concerts to be presented
by the Detroit Lutheran Singers on Sunday, October
19, 2014. The first concert will be at 3:30 p.m. at Our
Shepherd Lutheran Church, 2525 E Fourteen Mile Rd,
Birmingham, MI, and the second will be at 7:30 p.m. at
St. Paul Lutheran Church, 202 E Fifth St, Royal Oak, MI.
A few of the composers represented will be John Rutter,
K. Lee Scott, and Detroit’s Brazeal Dennard as well as
Scarlatti, Poulenc, and Christiansen. Thus the program
will have rich variety, from Jubilate Deo to The Lord Is
My Light to Elijah Rock, plus a new arrangement of
a well-known hymn. An additional feature will be
a segment presented by each host congregation’s
Christian day school children’s choir,
demonstrating how those schools are
preparing children for a lifetime of enjoying making music to God’s glory.
Tickets ($15 general admission; $10
seniors and students 12 and over; children
under 12 are free) will be available at the
door or may be purchased in advance online at www.detroitlutheransingers.com.

12
September 2014
Grant and Loan Program for Technology
Delivering the
Good News of the Gospel
and Daily Work in the Church
Offering the newest technology
to help congregations do
God’s work more efficiently
Church Extension Fund.
The Grant and Loan Program for Technology is
available for purchases and orders made now through
December 31, 2015.
For more information and to obtain the Grant
Application, visit the CEF website at www.mi-cef.org or
call the CEF office at 800.242.3944.
Examples of eligible items included in both the Grant
and Loan Programs are: computer hardware/software,
printers and scanners, digital cameras, video equipment,
DVD/Blu-ray players, digital projectors, projection
screens, tablet computers, flat screen TV monitors, and
sound system equipment.
Special Recognition
Sutton Installed
On Sunday, July 20, 2014, the congregation of Our
Savior, Marlette joyfully joined together at the Service
of Ordination and Installation of David John Sutton
(pictured fifth from left), a 2014 graduate of Concordia
Theological Seminary, Fort Wayne, Indiana. Rev. Sutton
and his wife, Bonnie, have two sons.
Pastors from left to right are: Rev. Steven Stolarczyk, Rev. Emeritus Eric
Kilmer, Rev. Kenneth Lueke (Circuit Visitor), Rev. David Sutton, Rev.
Lee Wenskay, Rev. Todd Jerabek (Preaching Pastor from Embarrass,
Wisconsin), Rev. Ronald Schultz, Rev. Steven Bagnall, Rev. Leonard
Astrowski, and Rev. Richard Wilson. Pictured with the pastors is the
Joyful Voices Youth Choir of Our Savior.
Michigan Musicians Attend Lutheran
Summer Music Academy
The 2014 Lutheran Summer Music Academy
(LSM), a four-week residential camp for
talented high school musicians, was held at
Luther College in Decorah, IA this summer.
Along with 100+ students from 30 states, Kaitlyn
Ahlschwede of St. Lorenz, Frankenmuth and
Jillian Matasovsky of St. Michael, Wayne were
chosen to participate in the program.
Founded in 1981, LSM’s mission is to transform lives and connect people through faith and
music. By offering programs for young people
that teach and celebrate the extraordinary musical heritage of the Lutheran church, LSM trains
and inspires the next generation of musicians for
the church. Music and worship are at the center
of LSM’s intentional, supportive community.
Since its founding in 1982, more than 4,000
students have attended Lutheran Summer
Music. Hundreds of these alumni have pursued
careers in music education, church music, and
music performance. LSM 2015 will be held
June 21 to July 19 on the campus of Luther
College in Decorah, IA.
For more information about Lutheran
Summer Music or the Young Musicians and
Collegiate Partnerships, please visit www.
lutheransummermusic.org, email [email protected], or call the LSM office at
888.635.6583.
A COLLEGE DEGREE
IS MORE VALUABLE WITH
CHRISTIAN VALUES.
Bible study with friends. Student-led retreats. Daily Chapel services.
At Concordia University Ann Arbor, it’s more than just the classes
shaping our students. With Christ-centered learning, small class
sizes and lots of personal attention, our students graduate with the
knowledge and values to succeed and lead in both the workplace
and the community. Contact us to learn more.
Ann Arbor
Frankenmuth
734.995.7300
Dearborn
Online
cuaa.edu
Youth from the Michigan District, Ms. Kaitlyn Ahschwede (center
row right) and Ms. Jillian Matasovsky (center row left), took part in
the 2014 Lutheran Summer Music Academy in Decorah, Iowa.
www.michiganintouch.com
13
Healthy CHURCH WORKERS
continued from page 3
Martin Luther Day Care with Pastor Joseph Bart-Plange of St. John
Lutheran Church
Haiti on my return from there in 2002. I think I was most
enriched by the contact with people. To see teachers
who have so little and yet have a passion for teaching
and forging relationships with their students and who
want to learn how to do what they do better, drives me to
continue to seek ways to improve my teaching and daily
interactions.
I enjoy the opportunity to become involved in a
program such as this because, after 34 years of teaching in the same place, my teaching needs refreshing and
renewing. I returned reenergized and excited to begin a
new year with my students. I want them to share in this
idea of privilege, blessing, and responsibility as well.
Would you recommend this program to other teachers
and if so, where would they begin?
have been blessed to become involved in many profes
sional growth opportunities because of the support
of my principal and school. Much of this growth has also
involved travel. I found out about this program through
other connections I have in the Social Studies field, being
a teacher consultant for Michigan Geographic Alliance.
The TCG program has a rigorous application process
including recommendations, essays, implementation
ideas for the classroom, and principal approval since the
international teaching experience may involve travel
during the school year as mine did. The website for the
TGC program http://irex.org/project/teachers-globalclassrooms-program-tgc contains more information.
There are many similar programs such as that sponsored by the Korea Society and Asia Society that allow
for global participation as well. I highly recommend
that other teachers seek out and take advantage of these
growth opportunities. I look forward to sharing global
resources, educational resources, teacher lesson plans
and other links as my webpage unfolds.
I
14
September 2014
Healthy CONGREGATIONS
continued from page 6
Ask what the therapist’s theoretical orientation is.
Most likely, you will want to identify a counselor who
has been trained as a cognitive behavioral therapist. A
cognitive behavioral perspective ensures that this individual has been trained in, and has adopted, standards
of practice that are conventionally regarded as the most
useful in treating a wide spectrum of adjustment matters
and disorders.
It’s not sufficient for the therapist to be “nice”; he or
she must be extremely skilled at addressing the matters
of particular importance to your parishioner. Therefore,
you’ll need to ask what percentage of their clinical
practice is devoted to the clinical issues for which your
parishioner seeks care (e.g., depression, PTSD, alcoholism, hoarding).
It is surely reasonable to ask counselors whether or
not they invite individuals to bring the resources of their
faith with them into the counseling process. If they say
“yes,” ask them what that means. (Be prepared for some
rather inventive answers to that question.) Are they willing to do Skype visits after a preliminary intake? Are
they willing to collaborate with you in caring for your
parishioner? Finally, notice how long it took the counselor to return your call and how much time he or she was
prepared to spend with you on the phone.
Distance will always make referral more of a challenge, but the electronic age has made it easier than ever
to access ongoing care!
Dr. Beverly Yahnke is the Chair of the Department of
Social Sciences and Full Professor in the Psychology
program at Concordia University Wisconsin in Mequon,
Wis. She is a popular keynote speaker for pastoral
and teacher conferences and writes for a variety of
publications, promoting spiritual and emotional wellbeing, excellence in vocation, as well as the cultivation
of Christian virtues in families. She is also Executive
Director for Christian Counsel, DOXOLOGY.
LCMS Rural & Small Town Mission supports and
encourages rural and small town congregations in
engaging their communities and growing together in
Christ through Word and Sacrament. To learn more, visit
www.lcms.org/rstm or www.facebook.com/lcmsrstm.
Lutheran Women Missionary League - Michigan District
35th Biennial Convention Highlights
2014 - 2016 Mission Grant Recipients:
1. Filling pulpits by providing Scholarships
for MI Men …………………………………………$25,000
2. Hope for a “City in Crisis” ………………………….$25,000
3. Financial Assistance for Concordia Ft. Wayne
Co-op ………………………………………………. $15,000
4. Connecting Kids to Christ Center ……………….. $25,000
5. Scholarships for MI Female Deaconess Students
and other Professional Church Workers ………...$20,000
6. Beacon of Hope Pregnancy Center ……………...$25,000
7. Worship for Shut-Ins - Reaching MI and the
World through Television…………………………...$25,000
8. Camp Concordia Restroom Upgrades …………...$ 8,000
9. Eyeglass and Evangelism MOST Ministries ……..$16,800
10. Bringing Christ to the Nations Right Here in MI.....$23,980
11. Women Serving Short Term Mission Teams …….$11,543
12. Financial Asst. for Students to Attend LCMS
High Schools in MI District …………………………$14,427
Total: $234,750
Welcome Our Newly Elected Officers
JoAnn Gust
Rev. Eric Ekong
Pastoral Counselor
Rev. Ekong is the
Senior Pastor of Trinity
Lutheran Ministries in
Jackson County,
Jackson, MI. He and
his wife Linda have 5
children. Prior to his
studies at Concordia
Seminary he was an
Information Technologist (IT tech) and
worked for nationally
known companies. He
enjoys playing basketball, physical fitness
and sharing the Gospel.
Please mail Mites to: Glory Drum; PO Box 305; Warren, MI 48090
LLL
V.P. Caring Ministries
JoAnn is a member of
Zion, Mt. Pleasant
where she serves in
many areas. She is
active in many aspects
of her community such
as her current position
as Co-Chair of the
United Way (CMU).
She held the post of
President for CMU’s
Organ Guild. JoAnn
retired in 2006 after 30
years as an executive
secretary at Central
Michigan University.
Verna Besancon
Gen Abrams
Recording Secretary
Gen is a member of
Chapel of the Lakes,
Mecosta. She is a
member of the Youth
Pastor Task Force,
choir and Praise Band.
Gen has a BA in
Psychology and is a
certified trainer of the
State of MI Group
Home Curriculum. She
has worked as a Web
designer and graphic
artist and church
secretary. Currently she
is a Party Lite Consultant.
Treasurer
Verna is a member of
Cross of Christ,
Bloomfield Hills, where
she serves on the
Church Council as
Director of Finance.
She is a Bible study
teacher and Director of
Missions. In her
community she serves
as treasurer for the
Condo Board. Verna
has been employed as
a data processing
administrator, Lutheran
teacher and organist.
Cherie Lang
V.P. Christian Growth
Cherie is a member of
St. John, Taylor, where
she serves as youth
director, on the
evangelism board,
Sunday
School
teacher, assists her
Pastor with their radio
ministry and organizer
of an annual senior
luncheon. Cherie has
been employed as
Parent Support and
Advocacy Program for
Detroit Wayne Community Mental Health.
National LWML website: www.lwml.org Michigan District website: www.lwmlmichigan.org
Lutheran Women Missionary League - Michigan District
35th Biennial Convention Highlights
SENT Conference Recap
Based2014
on John
“Jesus said to them again,
- 2016 20:21
Mission (ESV),
Grant Recipients:
Welcome Our Newly Elected Officers
‘Peace be with you. As the Father has sent me, even
1. Filling pulpits by providing Scholarships
JoAnn Gust
Verna Besancon
so I foram
sending
you,’” this summer’s Lutheran Hour
V.P. Caring Ministries
Treasurer
MI Men
…………………………………………$25,000
JoAnn is a member of
Verna is a member of
Ministries
Conference
at the Renaissance Center
2. Hope for a SENT
“City in Crisis”
………………………….$25,000
Zion, Mt. Pleasant
Cross of Christ,
where she serves in
Bloomfield Hills, where
Financial Assistance
Concordia
in3. Detroit
had moreforthan
700Ft.inWayne
attendance.
many areas. She is
she serves on the
Co-op
……………………………………………….
$15,000
active in many aspects
Church Council as
The conference was a successful event with wonderful
of her community such
Director of Finance.
4. Connecting Kids to Christ Center ……………….. $25,000
speakers,
music, and entertainment. Attendees learned
as her current position
She is a Bible study
Gen Abrams
Rev. Eric Ekong as Co-Chair of the
5. Scholarships for MI Female Deaconess Students
Cherie Lang
teacher and Director of
howandtoother
reach
the
lost
in
local,
state,
national,
and
interRecording Secretary
Pastoral
Counselor
V.P. Christian Growth
United
Way
(CMU).
Missions. In her
Professional Church Workers ………...$20,000
Rev. Ekong is the
Cherie is a member of
She held the post of Gen is a member of
community she serves
national
Rev. Greg
Seltz,
speaker of theSenior
Lutheran
Pastor of Trinity
6. Beacon areas.
of Hope Pregnancy
Center
……………...$25,000
St. John, Taylor, where
President for CMU’s Chapel of the Lakes,
as treasurer for the
Mecosta.
She
is
a
Lutheran Ministries in
she serves as youth
Organ Guild. JoAnn
Condo Board. Verna
7. Worship
Shut-Ins -the
Reaching
and the speakers. Dinner
Hour,
wasforamong
manyMIkeynote
J a c k s o n Con
ounty,
director, on the
retired in 2006 after 30 member of the Youth
has been employed as
Pastor Task Force,
Jackson, MI. He and
World
through
Television…………………………...$25,000
evangelism board,
years
as
an
executive
a
data
processing
the Detroit Princess and a river cruise was enjoyed
choir and Praise Band.
his wife Lindaby
have 5
Sunday
School
secretary at Central
administrator, Lutheran
8. Camp Concordia Restroom Upgrades …………...$ 8,000
Gen has a BA in
children. Prior to his
teacher, assists her
Michigan University.
teacher and organist.
450 people.
Psychology and is a
studies at Concordia
Pastor with their radio
9. Eyeglass and Evangelism MOST Ministries ……..$16,800 Seminary he was an
certified trainer of the
ministry and organizer
youth
adults registered.
State of MI Group
Information Technolo10.Approximately
Bringing Christ to the 20
Nations
Rightand
Here young
in MI.....$23,980
of an annual senior
Home Curriculum. She
gist (IT tech) and
Their
special
age-appropriate
activities
included
two
luncheon. Cherie has
11. Women
Serving Short
Term Mission Teams
…….$11,543
has worked as a Web
worked for nationally
been employed as
designer and graphic
known health
companies. He
12. Financial
Asst. forThey
Students
to Attend
servant
events.
filled
130LCMS
pairs of socks with
Parent Support and
artist and church
enjoys playing basketAdvocacy Program for
secretary. Currently she
Highand
Schools
in MI District
…………………………$14,427
ball, physical
fitness
items
donated
another
370 pair of white crew
socks
Detroit Wayne Comis a Party Lite ConsultTotal: $234,750 and sharing the Gospel.
munity Mental Health.
ant.
for the homeless. A neighborhood VBS was held at a
Pleasecongregation
mail Mites to: Glory
Drum; PO
Box 305;
Warren,
MI Gospel
48090
local
where
they
shared
the
and LWML website: www.lwml.org Michigan District website: www.lwmlmichigan.org
National
prepared a cookout (see related story on page 11).
Faith, Bay City was the host congregation for the
communion worship service.
“As the conference chairman for the International
Outreach Conference in Detroit, I want to thank the
members of the Michigan District LLL for their support
and encouragement for the SENT Conference,” said Jack
Youth and young adults fill socks with personal hygiene items to be
distributed to the homeless in Detroit.
Kidwell of Bay City, Conference Chairman.
www.michiganintouch.com
15
Calls and Roster Update Calendar of Events
ORDAINED
Calls Accepted
Bennett, Robert H. (Reese) to Concordia Theological Seminary, Ft. Wayne
Cox, Ronald L. (New Era) to Navy Chaplain, LCMS World Missions
Mackowiak, Jack E. (Brownstown) to IIP, St. Paul, New Boston
Morris, George W. (Bay City) to St. John’s, Hinckley, MN
Ross, Daniel C. (Saginaw) to Christ, Topeka, KS
Change of Status
Schulz, Michael P. (Oxford) to Emeritus
COMMISSIONED
Calls Accepted
Block, Michelle (Non-Candidate) to St. Lorenz, Frankenmuth
Bringold, Levi (Trinity, Reese) to Trinity, Reese
Brockberg, Kevin (Non-Candidate) to Trinity, Orlando, FL
Bronner, Jill (Reinstated) to St. Lorenz, Frankenmuth
Durham, Darci (Bethlehem, Fairborn, OH) to St. Lorenz, Frankenmuth
Emington, Stephanie (Concordia, Mequon) to Trinity, Conklin
Hilsabeck, Janet (St. Luke, Clinton Township) to Immanuel, Macomb
Kern, Hans (Candidate) to St. Paul, Fulda, MN
Mackie, Ruth (Minnesota South District) to Trinity, Conklin
Neumeyer, Dennis (Emeritus) to St. Paul, Bay City
Neumeyer, Sarah (Concordia, Ann Arbor) to Peace, Shelby Township
Pettibone, Katherine (Colloquy) to Immanuel, Macomb
Prange, Sherry (Trinity, Reed City) to Trinity, Red Bud, IL
Reick, Myron (Living Word, Rochester) to Concordia, Omaha, NE
Rolf, Cheryl (Living Word, Rochester) to St. Augustine, Troy
Scott, Aaron (Concordia, Redford) to Holy Cross, Fort Wayne, IN
Schwaegerle, Judy (Candidate) to Hosanna-Tabor, Redford to serve
Concordia, Redford
Wenzel, Anne (Non-Candidate) to St. Mark, Kentwood
Change of Status
Bickel, Elaine (St. Paul, Millington) to Emeritus
Bierlein, Heather (Grace, Auburn) to Candidate
Dohrmann, Jane (Trinity, Reese) to Emeritus
Hempel, Ruth (St. Peter’s, Eastpointe) to Candidate
Schmit, Abigail (Peace, Rogers City) to Non-Candidate
Schwaegerle, Judy (St. Matthew, Westland) to Candidate
Smith, Jennifer (Immanuel, Saginaw) to Candidate
Van Zweden, Kelli (St. Mark, Kentwood) to Non-Candidate
Transfer out of District
Brockberg, Kevin (Non-Candidate) to Florida-Georgia District
Kern, Hans (Candidate) to Minnesota South District
Meyer, Shannon (Immanuel, Macomb) to Mid-South District
Prange, Sherry (Trinity, Reed City) to Southern Illinois District
Reick, Myron (Living Word, Rochester) to Nebraska District
Scott, Aaron (Concordia, Redford) to Indiana District
Transfer in to District
Durham, Darci (Ohio District) to St. Lorenz, Frankenmuth
Mackie, Ruth (Minnesota South) to Trinity, Conklin
Sankey, Margaret (Florida-Georgia District) to Guardian, Dearborn
Called Home
Koerschen, James
Wondrasch, Ruth
A complete up-to-date listing of Calls and Vacancies can be found at
www.michigandistrict.org, click on About.
OCTOBER
3-5
3-5
7-14
12-15
17-19
18
24-25
28
Church Extension Fund Fall Conference
Ypsilanti, Michigan
Confirmation Camp I
Camp Arcadia
LWR Boxcar at the District Office
Ann Arbor, Michigan
Professional Church Workers Conference
Dearborn, Michigan
Confirmation Camp II
Camp Arcadia
State Cross Country Meet
Macomb, Michigan
Lutherans For Life Conference
Grand Rapids, Michigan
District Board of Directors
Ann Arbor, Michigan
NOVEmBER
6
New Church Worker Conference
Ann Arbor, Michigan
December
24 -26Christmas
Office Closed
January
1-2
New Years Day
Office Closed
FEBRUARY
3-4
21
West Pastor’s Conference
St. Joseph, Michigan
Theological Conference
Grand Blanc, Michigan
21
Theological Conference
Jenison, Michigan
MARCH
For detailed event information,
please visit www.michigandistrict.org/events.
michiganonline
IN TOUCH
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Awakens ▪ Connects ▪ Challenges ▪ Inspirits
Check out Blogs, Pictures, Videos, and
Congregation News & Events online at
www.michiganintouch.com.
16
September 2014