bulletin of reports - Southwestern PA Synod

Transcription

BULLETIN OF REPORTS
BULLETIN OF REPORTS
for the
TWENTY-NINTH SYNOD ASSEMBLY
of the
SOUTHWESTERN PENNSYLVANIA SYNOD
of the
Evangelical Lutheran Church in America
to be held at
California University of Pennsylvania
California, Pennsylvania
June 17-18, 2016
Theme
“We Are Stewards of the Gospel”
All Voting Members: These printed reports will not be read at the assembly; therefore, you should
read them prior to the Assembly. Please bring this Bulletin of Reports with you to the Synod Assembly.
Also, please note that the following items, previously published in the “Proceedings” book,
are now part of this publication: Minutes of the 2015 Synod Assembly; the Synod’s Constitution
and Bylaws; 2016 Compensation Guidelines; and Synod Statistics. Each of these documents, as
well as the current roster and the Bulletin of Reports in its entirety, can also be downloaded from the
synod’s website.
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BULLETIN OF REPORTS
SYNODICAL DIRECTORY
2016
SYNOD OFFICE
9625 Perry Highway, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania 15237
Phone: (412) 367-8222
Fax: (412) 369-8840
E-Mail Address: [email protected]
Web Site (URL): http://www.swpasynod.org
Officers of the Synod
Bishop.............................................The Reverend Kurt F. Kusserow
Vice President................................................ Mr. R. Brandon James
Secretary................................................. Ms. Jeannette Christensen
Treasurer......................................................Mr. Thomas H. Beecher
Assistants to the Bishop
The Reverend Sarah M. Lee-Faulkner
The Reverend Edward F. Sheehan
Director for Evangelical Mission
The Reverend Dr. Blair W. Morgan
Director of the Synod Resource Center
Associate in Ministry Elizabeth A. Caywood
Office Information
The Synod Office is open daily, Monday through Friday, from 8:45 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
The office is closed on the following holidays: New Year’s Day, Martin Luther King Day, Good Friday,
Memorial Day, July 4th, Labor Day, Thanksgiving Day, Day after Thanksgiving, Day before Christmas,
Christmas Day, Day after Christmas. If a holiday falls on a Saturday, Friday will be taken as the
holiday. If the holiday falls on a Sunday, Monday will be taken as the holiday.
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BULLETIN OF REPORTS
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Page
Abiding Ministries, Administrative Board..................................................................................................... 13
Agapé Ministries.................................................................................................................................... 9, 183
Appointed Committees and Boards of Synod.............................................................................................. 13
Assembly Committee Chairpersons (BLUE PAGES).................................................................................. 18
Assembly Information and Procedures (BLUE PAGES)......................................................................... 17-18
Assembly Planning Committee (BLUE PAGES).......................................................................................... 18
Assembly Program, Proposed (BLUE PAGES)...................................................................................... 15-16
Assistants to the Bishop, Report of.................................................................................................... 106-108
Auditor’s Report.................................................................................................................................. 117-148
Bethesda Children’s Home............................................................................................................. 9, 178-179
Bishop, Report of the.......................................................................................................................... 105-106
Budget and Finance Committee................................................................................................... 12, 175-176
Calendar of Causes (see “Faith Works - A Unified Appeal”)�� 8
Campus Ministry - Lutheran Campus Ministry in Greater Pittsburgh�� 13, 185
Christian Associates of Southwest Pennsylvania......................................................................... 13, 189-190
Church in Society Committee...............................................................................................................11, 167
Closing of Synod Assembly....................................................................................................................... 194
Communication Services Committee...................................................................................................11, 167
Compensation Guidelines, 2016........................................................................................................ 237-248
Conferences........................................................................................................................................... 65-68
Conference Cabinets................................................................................................................................... 64
Conference Deans’ Reports............................................................................................................... 162-164
Congregational Data and Statistics........................................................................................................ 44-63
Congregational Directory (BLUE PAGES).............................................................................................. 70-74
Congregational Life Committee........................................................................................................... 10, 168
Constitution and Bylaws...................................................................................................................... 12, 175
Consultation Committee.............................................................................................................................. 10
Discipline, Committee on............................................................................................................................. 10
Eastern Cluster of Lutheran Seminaries............................................................................................. 185-186
Ecumenical Affairs Committee............................................................................................................. 13, 174
Ecumenical Full Communion Partners, Local (YELLOW PAGES)�� 99
Ecumenical Units, Representatives to......................................................................................................... 13
ELCA Presiding Bishop, Report of............................................................................................................. 104
ELCA Churchwide Representative............................................................................................................ 103
ELCA Foundation Gift Planning Partnership...................................................................................... 192-193
Evangelical Mission, Director for............................................................................................................... 149
Faith Works - A Unified Appeal...................................................................................................................... 8
Gettysburg Seminary................................................................................................................................. 177
Glade Run Lutheran Services............................................................................................................... 9, 180
Global Mission Committee............................................................................................................ 10, 168-169
Lay Rostered Persons, Roll of (YELLOW PAGES)................................................................................ 95-96
Lutheran Advocacy Ministry in Pennsylvania...................................................................................... 13, 188
Lutheran SeniorLife........................................................................................................................ 9, 181-182
Lutheran Service Society of Western Pennsylvania....................................................................... 9, 182-183
Lutherlyn............................................................................................................................................... 9, 184
Map of the Synod........................................................................................................................................ 69
Ministers Not on the Roster of the Southwestern Pennsylvania Synod.�� 96-97
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BULLETIN OF REPORTS
TABLE OF CONTENTS - continued
Page
Ministry Committee.......................................................................................................................10, 169-170
MINUTES OF THE 2015 SYNOD ASSEMBLY��195-236
First Plenary Session.................................................................................................................. 197-205
Second Plenary Session.................................................................................................................... 206
Third Plenary Session................................................................................................................. 207-220
Fourth Plenary Session............................................................................................................... 220-226
Fifth Plenary Session.................................................................................................................. 229-234
Mission Endowment Fund Board of Directors, Report of.......................................................................... 175 Mission Investment Fund, ELCA............................................................................................................... 192
Nominations, Committee on......................................................................................................... 12, 165-166
Nominees, Data on (BUFF PAGES)................................................................................................... 249-254
Officers of the Synod..................................................................................................................................... 6
Opening of Synod Assembly..................................................................................................................... 101
Ordinations, Consecrations, Commissionings, Installations, Removals from Roster�� 100
Other Units Related to the Synod................................................................................................................ 13
Outreach Committee............................................................................................................................11, 170
Parliamentary Procedures (BLUE PAGES)................................................................................................. 19
Pastors, Roll of (YELLOW PAGES)........................................................................................................ 75-94
Pennsylvania Council of Churches............................................................................................... 13, 190-191
Persons providing pastoral services, no longer on Clergy Roll�� 96
Portico Benefit Services, Report of............................................................................................................ 193
Property Committee...................................................................................................................... 11, 170-171
Region Eight....................................................................................................................................... 188-189
Resource Center, Director of.............................................................................................................. 149-150
Secretary, Report of the............................................................................................................................. 109
Appendix A...........................................................................................................................................110
Appendices B and C ...........................................................................................................................111
Necrology Report.........................................................................................................................112-113
Standing Committees of the Synod........................................................................................................ 10-11
Stewardship and Financial Support Committee........................................................................... 11, 171-172
Synod Council, Committees of ................................................................................................................... 12
Synod Council Members............................................................................................................................... 8
Synod Council Report......................................................................................................................... 151-157
Recommendations............................................................................................................................. 157
Synod Council Approved Budget for 2016.................................................................................. 158-161
Synod Elected Committees......................................................................................................................... 10
Synod Priorities............................................................................................................................................. 7
Synod Support Staff...................................................................................................................................... 6
Synodically Authorized Ministers (YELLOW PAGES)................................................................................. 96
Synodical Directory........................................................................................................................................ 3
Thiel College................................................................................................................................... 9, 177-178
Treasurer, Report of...................................................................................................................................114
Balance Sheet.....................................................................................................................................115
Net Operating Income Trend...............................................................................................................116
Units Related to the Synod.......................................................................................................................... 13
Vice President, Report of........................................................................................................................... 108
Vision Statement........................................................................................................................................... 7
Voting Members to the 2016 Churchwide Assembly................................................................................... 43
Widows/Widowers of Pastors (YELLOW PAGES)................................................................................. 97-99
Women of the ELCA, Synodical Unit.............................................................................................. 8, 186-187
Youth Ministry Committee............................................................................................................. 10, 172-173
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SYNOD SUPPORT STAFF
Executive Assistant to Bishop Kurt F. Kusserow.............................................................................. Sandra J. DeLorenze
.
[email protected]
Administrative Assistant to Pastor Sarah M. Lee-Faulkner��Gloria C. Knezovich
.
[email protected]
Receptionist and Administrative Assistant to Pastor Edward F. Sheehan................................................Carol D. Ruckert
[email protected]
Accountant (Treasurer’s Office)................................................................................................................ Robert J. Cairns
.
[email protected]
OTHER SYNOD STAFF
Director of the Synod Resource Center.................................................................................Elizabeth A. Caywood (AIM)
[email protected]
EVANGELICAL LUTHERAN CHURCH IN AMERICA STAFF (located in our Synod Office)
Director for Evangelical Mission...........................................................................................The Rev. Dr. Blair W. Morgan
[email protected]
OTHER SUPPORTED MINISTRIES (located in our synod office)
Health and Wellness Ministry Coordinator.......................�� Patricia Davidson
[email protected]
Regional Gift Planner, ELCA Foundation.............�� Ryan Ebner
[email protected]
OFFICERS OF THE SYNOD
Term expires 2019
Bishop The Rev. Kurt F. Kusserow 9625 Perry Highway, Pittsburgh, PA 15237
(O) 412-367-8222 E-mail: [email protected]
Term expires 2019
Vice President Mr. R. Brandon James
1189 Route 68, New Brighton, PA 15066
(H) 724-843-5037 E-mail: [email protected]
Term expires 2019
Secretary Ms. Jeannette Christensen
1344 Hillsdale Drive, Monroeville, PA 15146
Treasurer Mr. Thomas H. Beecher
4212 Tanglewood Drive, Allison Park, PA 15101
REGION EIGHT OF THE EVANGELICAL LUTHERAN CHURCH IN AMERICA
Lutheran Theological Seminary at Gettysburg
61 Seminary Ridge, Gettysburg, PA 17325-1795 Telephone: 717-338-3033
Ms. Nancy E. Gable, Region 8 Coordinator
MID-ATLANTIC REGION EIGHT STEERING COMMITTEE
Synod Representative
May, 2016
Mr. R. Brandon James Layperson
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Term expires 2019
BULLETIN OF REPORTS
VISION STATEMENT
for the
Southwestern Pennsylvania Synod
We are the baptized children of God united in the Gospel which is the good news of God’s salvation in Jesus Christ.
We are rooted in God’s Word and Sacraments and united together for the sake of Christ’s mission. We are sent by the
Gospel to serve and to witness in the world.
Supported by the Holy Spirit, we offer our care for one another and our cooperation with one another as we work together
in order to fulfill the calling that we have been given - to be the Church in mission. This we do with joy and thanksgiving
as we share our lives and our gifts for the sake of Christ and His Church.
SYNOD PRIORITIES
2013-2020
Belonging to each other in Christ Jesus, we steward the Gospel and care for our neighbors
Conversation guide for using this priority statement in your congregation’s life and ministry:
The Small Catechism’s interpretation of the Ten Commandments provides practical expressions of care for our neighbors
and stewardship of the Gospel in answer to the compact question, “What does this mean?”1 Our daily lives provide many
local opportunities to live out our baptismal vocation. As a synod, we seek to live the baptismal vocation in many contexts
together – to steward the Gospel and care for our neighbors by asking the open question, “What could this mean?”
What could this mean? How does your context give expression to our shared stewardship of the Gospel? How does
care for our neighbors happen where you live?
To whom does the Gospel belong? Is the Gospel the possession of the Church? Does it belong to our neighbors?
Who are our neighbors? Review Jesus’ answer to this question in Luke 10:25-37. How does this Bible story answer
the question for us today?
Digging Deeper
The Church is a people created by God in Christ, empowered by the Holy Spirit, called and sent to bear witness to God’s
creative, redeeming, and sanctifying activity in the world.2 All the baptized participate in this mission, continuing in the
covenant God made with them,
• to live among God’s faithful people,
• to hear the word of God and share in the Lord’s supper,
• to proclaim the good news of God in Christ through word and deed,
• to serve all people, following the example of Jesus Christ,
• and to strive for justice and peace in all the earth.3
How are belonging and baptism connected? St. Peter has something to say about this in I Peter 4:8-11.
How do the Discipleship Practices relate to belonging, stewardship and care? (daily prayer, weekly worship, Bible
reading, service, spiritual friendships, giving)
Does trustworthy stewardship seek to keep the Gospel or give it away? The parable of the talents in Matthew 25:14-30
gives an answer. Paul handed over to the Corinthians what he had first received (I Cor. 11:23-26). Among the things
we have received, what is most important for us to hand on?
Does faithful care comfort or challenge our neighbors? James 1:27 calls “care for the least” true religion. Does this
include advocacy?
Belonging, stewardship, and care are all featured in the long Joseph story. Take time to study Genesis chapters 37-50.
Can you identify: examples of Baptismal Belonging, Gospel Stewardship, and Neighborly Care that require whole
congregations or whole synods to accomplish effectively?
What language would you use: to communicate the meaning of this priority statement to someone who has no connection
to Church and does not get churchly language?
The Small Catechism may be found printed in the ELW, beginning on p. 1160.
These words are quoted from the ELCA Model Constitution for Congregations, Chapter 4, Statement of Purpose.
3
These words are quoted from Affirmation of Baptism printed in the ELW, p. 236.
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BULLETIN OF REPORTS
FAITH WORKS - A UNIFIED APPEAL
Faith Works is a 2-year pilot project beginning in 2014 that is seeking to replace the Calendar of Causes appeals of times
past. The goal is to offer our congregations two mission months during the year (May and October) in which brochures of
information are provided regarding 10 agencies, camps, and institutions that had regularly been a part of the Calendar of
Causes. Congregation members are given an opportunity to donate to the cause(s) of their choice during this time. The
10 causes are: Bethesda Children’s Home, Camp Agapé, Gettysburg Seminary, Glade Run Lutheran Services, Lutheran
SeniorLife, Lutheran Service Society, Lutheran University Center, Lutherlyn, Synod Mission Support, and Thiel College.
ORGANIZATIONS OF THE SYNOD
WOMEN OF THE ELCA (Synodical Women’s Organization)
President:
Vice President:
Secretary:
Treasurer
OFFICERS
Jennifer Armstrong-Schaefer (2017)
Joan Orr (2016)
Lori Ashton (2016)
Janet Fishovitz (2018)
BOARD MEMBERS
Norma Baker (2017)
Barb Frey (2016)
Betty Albright (2017)
Eldora Crist (2017)
Linda Cunningham (2016)
Elvira (Vera) Harencame (2016)
Teresa O’Malley (2016)
Linda Reed (2017)
Gloria Yount (2017)
Editor of Mass Emails: Karen Gesalman
Editor for ECHO page: Rosemarie Henrickson
Editor for Friends, Inc. (newsletter): Jennifer ArmstrongSchaefer
MEMBERS OF BOARDS BY SYNOD ELECTION
THE SYNOD COUNCIL
The Bishop, Vice President, Secretary, and Treasurer of the Synod
Laypersons
Clergy
Terms expire in 2017
Ronald A. Brown (2)+
Ann E. Schmid (6)+
Brian B. Chaffee (4) Rebecca Galbraith (1)
Margaret A. Suhr-Barkley (1) Holly O. Schmitt (5)+
Kelly Spanninger (3)
Dennis T. Lane (AL) +
Jill A. Shook (AL)
Erik Nordby**
Ross I. Carmichael (3)
William A. Schaefer (AL)
Margarethe Galbraith-Cordes (1) Betty Albright (4)
Clifton J. Suehr (5) Susan K. Devine (6)
Sarah Lundie (AL)
Christopher D. Atwood (AL)
Janet A. Flecken (2)
Andrew Sabol*
( ) Indicates the Conference Representatives to the Synod Council
(AL)Member-at-Large Representatives to the Synod Council
* Young Adult Representative
* * Youth Representative
+ Indicates that the person is a member of the Executive Committee along with the four officers.
May, 2016
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BULLETIN OF REPORTS
MEMBERS OF BOARDS BY SYNOD ELECTION - (continued)
LUTHERAN THEOLOGICAL SEMINARY AT GETTYSBURG
61 Seminary Ridge; Gettysburg, PA 17325-1795
Telephone: 717-334-6286
The Rev. Dr. Michael L. Cooper-White, President
THIEL COLLEGE
75 College Ave.; Greenville, PA 16125-2181
Telephone: 724-589-2000
Troy D. Van Aken, Ph.D., President
The Rev. Jayne M. Thompson, Campus Pastor
Synod Members of the Board of Directors:
Dr. Janet J. Montelaro (AIM), Term expires 2018
Bishop Kurt F. Kusserow, Term expires 2018
The Rev. Kirk W. Bish, Term expires 2016
Mr. Greg Yothers, Term expires 2016
Synod Members of the Board of Trustees:
The Rev. Brian A. Evans, Term expires 2016
Mr. Alan F. Fager, Term expires 2016
Mr. Miles Wallace, Term expires 2016
LUTHERAN SENIORLIFE
191 Scharberry Lane; Mars, PA 16046
Telephone: 724-776-1100
Mr. David J. Fenoglietto, President and Chief Executive Officer
CAMP AGAPÉ
(Ohio Valley Lutheran Bible Camp Association)
P. O. Box 115; Hickory, PA 15340 (72 Agapé Road)
Telephone: 724-356-2308
Mr. Charles D. Wingert, Board President
The Rev. William B. Diehm, Term expires 2016
Mr. Mark B. Trauman, Term expires 2016
Dr. Eric D. Kofmehl, Term expires 2017
Dr. Mary Jeanne Krob, Term expires 2017
The Rev. Peter D. Asplin, Term expires 2017
The Rev. Margaret A. Suhr-Barkley, Term expires 2018
Ms. Jeannette Christensen, Term expires 2018
The Rev. Dennis T. Orsen, Term expires 2016
Ms. Karen Shaffer, Term expires 2016
The Rev. Kara J. Propst, Term expires 2017
Mr. Wayne Franzen, Term expires 2017
Alex Covi, Term expires 2018
Ms. Molly O’Brien, Term expires 2018
Ex. officio: The Rev. Edward F. Sheehan, Assistant to the Bishop
THE LUTHERAN SERVICE SOCIETY OF WESTERN
PENNSYLVANIA
440 Lincoln Avenue; Pittsburgh, PA 15202-3631
Telephone: 412-366-9490
The Rev. Dr. Terry Mann, Director
BETHESDA CHILDREN’S HOME/LUTHERAN SOCIAL
SERVICES
15487 State Hwy. 86; Meadville, PA 16335
Telephone: 814-724-7510
Mr. Gene Wisinski, Executive Director
The Rev. Allyn K. Itterly Term expires 2016
The Rev. A. Patrice Weirick, Term expires 2017
The Rev. Clifton J. Suehr, Term expires 2018
The Rev. Robert Hawk, Term expires 2016
Mr. Larry Fritz, Term expires 2017
The Rev. Susan A. G. Irons, Term expires 2017
The Rev. Christopher J. Suehr, Term expires 2017
CAMP LUTHERLYN
P. O. Box 355; Prospect, PA 16052
Telephone: 724-865-2161
The Rev. Randal K. Gullickson, Executive Director
GLADE RUN LUTHERAN SERVICES
P. O. Box 70; Zelienople, PA 16063-0355
Telephone: 724-452-4453
The Rev. Dr. Charles T. Lockwood, President &
Chief Executive Officer
The Rev. Margarethe D. Galbraith-Cordes, Term expires 2016
The Rev. Kari B. Smail, Term expires 2016
Mr. James A. Nealon, Term expires 2016
The Rev. Joel A. Benson, Term expires 2017
The Rev. James A. Higgins, Term expires 2017
The Rev. Jocelyn Johnston, Term expires 2017
The Rev. Anthony J. Schneck, Term expires 2018
Mr. Andre Francois, Term expires 2018
Ms. Carrie Nurnberger-Lane, Term expires 2018
The Rev. Frank S. Podolinski, Jr., Term expires 2017
Mrs. Sylvia K. Lynn, Term expires 2017
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BULLETIN OF REPORTS
SYNOD ELECTED COMMITTEES
CONSULTATION COMMITTEE
COMMITTEE ON DISCIPLINE
Pastor Scott A. Bryte
Jeannette Christensen
Pastor Herbert D. Dubler
Dr. Brian R. Miller
Amy B. Santoriello, D.M. Pastor Linda Orsen Theophilus
Cynthia S. Holden Elk
Pastor Beverly J. Banyay
Pastor Caroline M. Mendis
Linda R. Schaeffer Mark A. Nurnberger (AIM)
Pastor John F. Yedlicka
Pastor Scott A. KuechenmeisterHall
Scott B. Lang
Brenda Neundorf
Pastor Ann E. Schmid
Pastor Jennifer R. P. McCurry
Judith A. Rogers
Sandra A. Shaw
Pastor Kimberly M. van Driel
STANDING COMMITTEES
COMMITTEE ON CONGREGATIONAL LIFE
Term Expires:
Chairperson: Pastor James W. Dollhopf (2) Secretary: Pastor Allyn K. Itterly (2)
Synod Council Representative:
Sarah Lundie
2017
2017
2019
COMMITTEE ON YOUTH MINISTRY
Term Expires:
Chairperson: Pastor Erin Evans (5) Secretary: Andrew Sabol (6)
Erik Nordby (4)
2017
2017
2017
Rachelle Fritz (2)
Pastor Richard W. Krug (4)
Kenneth W. Neundorf (3) Pr. Michael Robinson (2)
Dorothy Zaffuto (2)
Staff: Pastor Sarah M. Lee-Faulkner
Pastor Joel A. Benson (2)
Elisabeth Heckert (2)
Pastor Brian Bennett (2)
Virginia Kreisel (6)
Amy Santoriello (DM) (4)
Pastor Ryan Kobert (4)
Kyra Short (4)
Resource Person: Pastor Christina A. Hough
COMMITTEE ON GLOBAL MISSION
COMMITTEE ON MINISTRY
Term expires:
Chairperson: (vacancy)
Secretary: (vacancy)
Janet A. Flecken
2019
2019
Term expires:
Chairperson: Pastor Beverly J. Banyay (4) Secretary: Pastor Margaret Suhr-Barkley (1)
Pastor William Schaefer
2019
Christopher Atwood (3)
Mark Nurnberger (AIM) (2)
Pr. Kimberly A. Rapczak (1)Christine A. Rotella, DM (1)
Miranda Pino (3)
Carole Higenbothum (5)
Resource Person: Marsha L. Davis
Sally Shirey (4)
Staff: Pastor Edward F. Sheehan
May, 2016
2017
2019
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BULLETIN OF REPORTS
STANDING COMMITTEES (continued)
COMMITTEE ON OUTREACH
COMMITTEE ON CHURCH IN SOCIETY
Term expires:
Chairperson: Pastor Robert F. Zimmerman (2)
Secretary: Pastor Melba T. Dibble (6)
Susan Devine
2017
2017
2019
Chairperson: Jocelyn Johnston (3)
Secretary: Pastor Linda O. Theophilus (4)
Kelly Spanninger (3)
Pastor Joseph Murdy (6)
Pastor Karen Thompson (5)
Keith Otto (2)
2017
Diane Santoriello (4)
Pastor Ross Carmichael (3)
COMMITTEE ON STEWARDSHIP AND FINANCIAL
SUPPORT
Term expires:
Chairperson: Barbara Nugent (2)
Secretary: Keith Devine (6)
Jill A. Shook (6)
2017
2019
2017
Jean Adams (2)
2018
2017
Staff: Pastor Blair W. Morgan
Term expires:
Ray Prosser (6)
COMMITTEE ON COMMUNICATION SERVICES
Term expires:
Chairperson: Janice G. Jeletic (1)
Secretary: Myra L. Fozard (1)
Pastor Brian Chaffee (4)
2017
2017
2017
Gene O. Fozard (1)
Pastor Tara R. Lynn (2)
Bruce M. Letterle (2)
Judith J. Rogers (4)
Pr. Nathaneil Christman (1) Raymond Dittenhafer (5)
Pr. Frank Podolinski (4)
Pastor Jack Delk (3)
Staff: Pastor Blair W. Morgan
Carrie Nurnberger-Lane (2)
Nadine Simon (2)
Resource Persons: Dennis T. Lane (2); Holly O. Schmitt (5)
COMMITTEE ON PROPERTY
Term expires:
Chairperson: Pastor George W. Mendis (2)
Secretary: Pastor James Arter III
Dennis T. Lane (2)
2017
2017
2017
Pastor Paul L. Lubold (2) Pastor Matthew Stabe (5)
Thomas H. Beecher (2)
Jerry Lynn (2)
Eric Damon (4)
Sylvia K. Lynn (2)
Staff: Pastor Edward F. Sheehan; Robert J. Cairns
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May, 2016
BULLETIN OF REPORTS
COMMITTEES OF THE SYNOD COUNCIL
EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE
ASSEMBLY PLANNING COMMITTEE
Bishop Kurt F. Kusserow
R. Brandon James, Vice President
Jeannette Christensen, Secretary
Thomas H. Beecher, Treasurer
Pastor Ronald A. Brown
Pastor Ann E. Schmid
Chairperson: Pastor Larry F. Mort
Secretary: Pastor William A. Schaefer
Registration: Pastor Robert Schaefer
Worship: Pastor Brian A. Evans
Elections: Pastor Paul M. Gruesu
Minutes: Pastor Terri L. Landers
Memorials: Pastor Peggy Suhr-Barkley
Reference and Counsel: Pastor Natalie Gessert
Bishop’s Report: Pastor Melissa L. Stoller
Resolutions: Pastor Scott A. Bryte
Youth Convo: Pastor Christina Hough
Synod Vice President: R. Brandon James
Synod Secretary: Jeannette Christensen
Synod Treasurer: Thomas H. Beecher
Dennis T. Lane
Holly O. Schmitt
BUDGET AND FINANCE COMMITTEE
Pastor Frank S. Podolinski, Jr., Chairperson
Pastor William B. Diehm
Janet Enders
Mollie Hibbs
Sylvia K. Lynn
John R. Frantz
Ex-officio: Bishop Kurt F. Kusserow
Ex-officio: Pastor Blair W. Morgan
Ex-officio: R. Brandon James
Ex-officio: Thomas H. Beecher
Holly Schmitt
Sylvia Lynn
Rachelle Fritz
Dennis T. Lane
Amy Santoriello (DM)
NOMINATING COMMITTEE
Pastor William Schaefer, Chairperson (4)
Pastor Patrice Weirick (1)
Pastor James Arter III (3)
Pastor Erin Evans (5)
Ex-officio: Pastor Sarah M. Lee-Faulkner
Ex-officio: Jeannette Christensen, Synod Secretary
Nick Ross
Judith J. Rogers
Pastor William B. Henry, Jr.
Pastor Peter Asplin
CREDENTIALS COMMITTEE
Pastor James V. Arter III (2018)
Pastor Kimberly van Driel (2016)
Ex-officio: Secretary Jeannette Christensen
SYNODICALLY AUTHORIZED MINISTRIES
OVERSIGHT COMMITTEE
COMMITTEE ON RESOURCE DEVELOPMENT
Pastor Edward F. Sheehan (Assistant to the Bishop)
Pastor Sarah M. Lee-Faulkner (Assistant to the Bishop)
Pastor Beverly J. Banyay (Ministry Committee)
Pastor Robert F. Zimmerman (Outreach Committee)
Jeannette Christensen (Executive Committee)
Chairperson: Pastor Joe Boomhower
Pastor Joel A. Benson
Pastor Paul D. Poerschke
William Luft
AUDIT COMMITTEE
COMMITTEE ON CONSTITUTION AND BYLAWS
Holly Schmitt, Chairperson (2018)John R. Frantz (2018)
Lisa Groff (2016)
Lynn Landis (2017)
Dr. Edward W. Sites, Chairperson
Pastor David Snyder (1)
John Kepple (2)
Charles O. Zebly, JD (5) Theodore Schroeder (1)
Pastor Larry E. Kemp, JD (6)
Jack Bauer (6)
John Wilver (3)
Ex-officio: Thomas H. Beecher, Treasurer
MUTUAL MINISTRY COMMITTEE
Chairperson: Pastor Melissa L. Stoller
Pastor James V. Arter III
Pastor Margarethe Galbraith-Cordes
SYNOD EVENT COMMITTEE
ARCHIVES/HISTORY COMMITTEE
Pastor Peter D. Asplin
Andrea L. Dubler (AIM)
Dennis T. Lane
Frank W. Baker
Aaron O’Data, Chairperson
John Hutton
Barbara Frey, Secretary
Loran Bohman
Jacquelyn Felix
Pastor Ralph Kusserow
Pat Hutton
Staff: Elizabeth Caywood, AIM
May, 2016
12
Pastor Heather S. Lubold
Myra L. Fozard
Kenneth Neundorf
BULLETIN OF REPORTS
SPECIAL APPOINTED COMMITTEES AND BOARDS OF THE SYNOD
MULTI-SYNODICAL CANDIDACY COMMITTEE
Synod Representatives (six-year terms)
SYNOD RESOURCE CENTER ADVISORY BOARD
Pastor Paul Gruesu (2018) Pastor Robert Hawk (2016)
Pr. Fred Schenker (2016)
Pr. Jeffrey Schock (2018)
Pr. Beth Siefert (2017)
Pr. Michael Sourwine (2018)
Pastor Terri Landers (2017)
Staff: Elizabeth A. Caywood (AIM), Director of Resource Center
Ex officio: Bishop Kurt F. Kusserow
Pastor Brooks Schramm (seminary liaison)
Pastor Robert Gago (2019) Pr. Philip Williams (2017)
Jean Chantz (2021)
Kurt Hansmann (2019)
Pastor Terri Landers (2021)
Synod Staff: Bishop Kurt F. Kusserow
Synod Staff: Pastor Ed Sheehan
ECUMENICAL AFFAIRS COMMITTEE
MISSION ENDOWMENT FUND
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Pastor Robert A. Gago, Chairperson
Pastor Ann E. Schmid, Chairperson (2019)
Cheryl Arter
Pastor Brian Bennett
Pr. Beverly J. Banyay (2017)
John R. Frantz (2017) Pastor Natalie L. G. Hall
Pastor Timothy Dawes
Ronald Kilgore (2017)
Pr. George W. Mendis (2018) Pastor Lota Jones (UMC)
Jean Kestner Fay Morgan (2018)
Pr. Kimberly van Driel (2018) Pastor Jennifer McCurry
Pastor Patricia A. Mohr-Kelly
Richard C. Mohr-Kelly, DM Pastor Kimberly A. Rapczak
ADMINISTRATIVE BOARD OF ABIDING MINISTRIES
(SYNODICALLY AUTHORIZED WORSHIPING COMMUNITY)
Alex Hawkins
Rupert West
Mark DiPietrantonio
Patricia McKenty
Pastor Blair Morgan
CAMPUS MINISTRY
Darryl Bailey
Steve Muck
Pastor Brian Evans
Fran Mazur
Pastor Ross Carmichael
COUNCIL FOR LUTHERAN CAMPUS MINISTRY IN
GREATER PITTSBURGH
4515 Forbes Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA 15213
Telephone: 412-682-6886
The Rev. Brian O. Bennett, Campus Pastor/Director
Ex-officio: Pastor Chris Rotella
Synod Members of the Board of Directors
OTHER UNITS RELATED TO THE SYNOD
Pastor Brian Evans, Council President
Pr. Margarethe Galbraith-Cordes
James Needles
TRI-SYNOD ARCHIVES
Passavant Center, 75 College Avenue
Greenville, PA 16125-2181 • Telephone: 724-589-2131
Sarah (Sally) Roth, Archivist/Curator
Sylvia Lynn
Philip Elgin
Pastor Jeffrey Schock
THREE SYNOD RESOURCE DEVELOPMENT
COMMITTEE
Jay Frerotte
Kim Wilson
9625 Perry Highway, Pittsburgh, PA 15237-5590
Telephone: 412-367-8222
Pastor Frank Kantz
Trisha Lawless
The Rev. Blair W. Morgan, Convener
George Krause
Luther Rinehart
REPRESENTATIVES TO ECUMENICAL UNITS
PENNSYLVANIA COUNCIL OF CHURCHES
LUTHERAN ADVOCACY MINISTRY IN
PENNSYLVANIA
900 South Arlington Avenue, Harrisburg, PA 17109
Telephone: 717-545-4761
Janet A. Gulick, Interim Executive Director
900 S. Arlington Avenue, Suite 251B
Harrisburg, PA 17109 • Telephone: 717-545-3500
Tracey DePasquale, Interim Director
Synod Representatives
Term expires in 2017
CHRISTIAN ASSOCIATES OF SOUTHWEST
PENNSYLVANIA
Pastor Jocelyn Johnston
P. O. Box 5241, Pittsburgh, PA 15206
Telephone: 412-688-9070
The Rev. Liddy G. Barlow, Executive Minister
Term expires in 2019
Pastor Melissa L. Stoller
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May, 2016
BULLETIN OF REPORTS
May, 2016
14
BULLETIN OF REPORTS
2016 SYNOD ASSEMBLY - PROPOSED AGENDA
California University of Pennsylvania
June 17-18, 2016
Friday, June 17, 2016 (morning)
7:30 a.m.
Check-in Opens
10:00 a.m.
Morning Prayer
Order for the Opening of the Synod Assembly
11:00 a.m.
Report of the Committee on Registration and Attendance
Adoption of the Assembly Business Agenda
Appointment of Assembly Committees
Recognition of Pastors New to the Synod
11:30 a.m.
Assembly Orientation
11:45 a.m.
Report of the Committee on Nominations
11:55 a.m.
Presentation of the Proposed Operating Budget for 2017
12:00 p.m.
LUNCH
Friday (afternoon)
1:30 p.m.
Greetings from California University of Pennsylvania
1:40 p.m.
Report of the Bishop
Report of the Committee on the Bishop’s Report
Report of the Vice-President
Report of the Secretary
Report of the Treasurer
2:05 p.m.
Report of Synod Council
2:50 p.m.
Election: First Ballot
3:05 p.m.
BREAK
3:25 p.m.
Report of the ELCA Representative
4:10 pm.
Presentation of Seminarians and Ordinands
Recognition of Pastors Observing Special Anniversaries
4:40 p.m.
Report of the Synodical Unit of the Women of the ELCA
4:55 p.m.
Report of The Lutheran Theological Seminary at Gettysburg
5:10 p.m.
Report of the Committee on Memorials
5:40 p.m.
Election: Report on the First Ballot
Election: Second Ballot
5:50 p.m.
DINNER
Friday (evening)
7:30 p.m.
Festival Liturgy of Holy Communion with Ordination
9:00 p.m. to
10:00 p.m.
Reception
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May, 2016
BULLETIN OF REPORTS
Saturday, June 18, 2016 (morning)
7:00 a.m.
BREAKFAST
8:15 a.m.
Opening Devotions
Report of the Committee on Minutes
8:30 a.m.
Election: Report on the Second Ballot
Election: Third Ballot
8:40 a.m.
Report of Synod Council
9:00 a.m.
Report of the Committee on Reference and Counsel
9:15 a.m.
Election: Report on the Third Ballot
9:20 a.m.
Ryan Ebner, Regional Gift Planner, ELCA Foundation
9:30 a.m.
9:50 a.m.
ELCA Churchwide Representative Q & A
10:20 a.m.
BREAK
10:40 a.m.
Report from Youth Convo
10:50 a.m.
Presentation of the Bible Bowl Trophy
11:00 a.m.
Report of the Committee on Resolutions
11:10 a.m.
11:15 a.m.
Announcements
11:30 a.m.
Liturgy of Holy Communion
Order for the Closing of the Synod Assembly
May, 2016
16
BULLETIN OF REPORTS
ITEMS OF INFORMATION FOR 2016 SYNOD ASSEMBLY
CHECK-IN AT CALIFORNIA UNIVERSITY
Synod Assembly check-in will begin Friday, June 17, at 8:00 a.m. in the Lobby of the Convocation Center. When
arriving on campus, follow signs to the assigned temporary parking lot. Proceed to the Convocation Center for assembly
check- in and campus room assignment. After moving in to the dormitory, proceed to long term parking assigned at check-in.
Commuters may proceed directly to long-term parking and then go to the Convocation Center for check-in beginning
at 8:00 am.
All residence hall rooms include linens (2 sheets,1 blanket, pillow, pillowcase, towels, washcloths). The rooms are
furnished with bed, desk, nightstand, and bookcase. Each room has its own bathroom. All rooms are air conditioned.
Wi-Fi access is available campus wide.
All activities and events (worship and business sessions) of the 2016 Synod Assembly will be held at the Convocation
Center.
Meals will be served in the Gold Rush Dining Hall located on the third floor of the Natali Student Center. There is an
elevator on the main floor of the building that can be used to gain access to the dining area by those who have difficulty
with steps. Shuttles will be available for those who have difficulty walking from the Convocation Center to the Natali
Student Center.
The Committee/Agency Displays will be located just outside the entrance to the Gold Rush Dining Hall. The Steeple
People Book Store, the Synod Resource Center, and the Fair Trade Center will be available in the reception area of the
Convocation Center.
Committee Meeting Rooms and Offices
Synod Office Minutes Committee Worship Committee (Sacristy) All Synod Assembly Committees Board of Pensions Consolidations
Youth Convo
North Conference Wing Room 6
Hospitality Room
North Wing Lobby
Residence Hall Community Room
The use of tobacco products is restricted to outdoor areas on the campus.
Cold drinks and coffee will be served in the Convocation Center reception area.
By action of Synod Council, offerings from worship services at the 2016 Synod Assembly will be equally divided between
Lutheran Immigration and Refugee Services (LIRS), Synod Lutheran Disaster Response (LDR) and ELCA World Hunger.
The Synod Assembly Nurse will be Dottie Zaffuto.
Please silence all cell phones and electronic devices when in the assembly hall.
PLENARY SESSION PROCEDURES
The Synod Assembly will be governed by our Synodical Constitution and Bylaws and the most recent version of
Robert’s Rules of Order. Admission into the assembly hall will require a proper identification badge.
For purposes of this assembly the bar of the assembly will constitute the authorized possession by voting members
of electronic voting machines. Only in special circumstances announced by the bishop will we designate a physical bar
of the assembly. In that case the bar of the assembly will be all seating in front of the aisle between the front and rear
of the auditorium. At those times, visitors will be asked to move to the rear of the auditorium.
Microphones will be placed conveniently at various locations on the assembly floor.
A.
The right to speak on the assembly floor is limited to voting members and such other persons specified in our
Constitution and Bylaws.
B. To obtain the floor, please
1. Go to the nearest floor microphone
2. Address the chair when recognized
3. Identify yourself by giving your
a. Name and
b. Congregation, agency, or unit that you represent.
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May, 2016
BULLETIN OF REPORTS
The right to vote is limited to lay voting members, associates in ministry, diaconal ministers, deaconesses, and clergy.
1. Voting machines will be provided for voting.
2. Instructions for each ballot will be given at the time of the ballot; Please note: Voting time will be limited. Voting
members must be prepared to vote at the time the ballot is open.
SYNOD ASSEMBLY COMMITTEE CHAIRPERSONS
OTHER SYNOD ASSEMBLY PLANNING
COMMITTEE MEMBERS
Chairperson:
Pastor Larry F. Mort
Secretary:
Pastor William A. Schaefer
Registration and Attendance: Pastor Robert J. Schaefer
Reference and Counsel:
Pastor Natalie L. Gessert
Minutes:
Pastor Terri L. Landers
Bishop’s Report:
Elections:
Pastor Paul M. Gruesu
Memorials:
Pastor Peggy Suhr-Barkley
Resolutions:
Worship:
Pastor Brian A. Evans
Youth Convo:
Pastor Christina A. Hough
May, 2016
Thomas H. Beecher, Synod Treasurer
Jeannette Christensen, Synod Secretary
R. Brandon James, Synod Vice President
Pastor Peter Asplin
Pastor William B. Henry, Jr.
Sylvia K. Lynn
Nick Ross
Holly O. Schmitt
18
Rachelle Fritz
Dennis T. Lane
Judi Rogers
Amy Santoriello (DM)
Not debatable
Not debatable
Not debatable
XXXx
I move we recess until...
Point of privilege...
I move we table this
matter.
I move the previous
question.
I move we postpone this
matter...
I move we refer this
matter to...
I move this motion be
amended to read...
I move that...
2.Recess
3.Register a concern
4.Suspend further consideration of a matter (To table)
5.End discussion of further debating of a matter
6.Postpone consideration of a matter
19
7.Move further study on a
matter
8.Amend a motion
a
9.Introduce a matter of business (A primary motion)
Yes
Yes
x
Yes
x
Yes
xx
No
x
No
x
No
Yes
No
Majority vote required.
xx
x
x
Two-thirds vote required.
x
xxxxxx
No vote required. Chair decides.
Note: To make a motion, the voting member addresses the chair, receives recognition; reads the motion; and provides written
copies of the motion to the bishop and to the secretary. Motions from the floor require a second.
Debatable
Debatable
x
Debatable
xxxxxxxxx
Debatable
xxxxxxxxx
Not debatable
xxxxx
Not debatable
I move we adjourn.
1.Adjourn
The motions on points listed below, 1 through 9, are in order of precedence. In other words, when any one of them is pending
you cannot introduce one that is listed below it.
Is the Motion Can This Motion
You say:
Is Vote Required?
You want to:
Be Amended?
Debatable?
PRACTICAL POINTS ON PARLIAMENTARY PROCEDURE
BULLETIN OF REPORTS
May, 2016
BULLETIN OF REPORTS
CONSTITUTION FOR THE SOUTHWESTERN PENNSYLVANIA
SYNOD OF THE EVANGELICAL LUTHERAN CHURCH IN AMERICA
*Chapter 1.
NAME AND INCORPORATION
S1.01. The name of this synod, as determined by the Churchwide Assembly, shall be the Southwestern Pennsylvania
Synod of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America.
S1.02. For the purposes of this constitution and the accompanying bylaws, the Southwestern Pennsylvania Synod of
The Evangelical Lutheran Church in America is hereinafter designated as “this synod” or “the synod.”
S1.11. This synod shall be incorporated. Amendments to the articles of incorporation of this synod shall be submitted to
the Church Council for ratification before filing.
S1.21. The seal of this synod is the seal of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America, encircled by the name of the
Southwestern Pennsylvania Synod 1987.
*Chapter 2.
STATUS
S2.01. This synod possesses the powers conferred upon it, and accepts the duties and responsibilities assigned to it,
in the Constitution, Bylaws, and Continuing Resolutions of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America, which
are recognized as having governing force in the life of this synod.
S2.02 The name Evangelical Lutheran Church in America (ELCA or “this church”) as used herein refers in general
references to this whole church, including its three expressions - congregations, synods, and the churchwide
organization. The name Evangelical Lutheran Church in America is also the name of the corporation of the
churchwide organization to which specific references may be made herein.
S2.03. No provision of this constitution shall be inconsistent with the constitution and bylaws of this church.
*Chapter 3.
TERRITORY
S3.01. The territory of this synod, as determined by the Churchwide Assembly, shall be the counties of Allegheny,
Armstrong (pt.), Beaver, Butler, Fayette, Greene, Indiana (pt.), Lawrence, Washington, and Westmoreland in
the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania.
S3.02. “Determined by the Churchwide Assembly,” as stipulated by *S3.01. is understood to include the reported changes
in synod relationship made by any congregation in a border area agreed under ELCA bylaws 10.01.11. and
10.02.02.
*Chapter 4.
CONFESSION OF FAITH
S4.01. This synod confesses the Triune God, Father, Son and Holy Spirit.
S4.02. This synod confesses Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior and the Gospel as the power of God for the salvation of
all who believe.
a. Jesus Christ is the Word of God incarnate, through whom everything was made and through whose life,
death, and resurrection God fashions a new creation.
b. The proclamation of God’s message to us as both Law and Gospel is the Word of God, revealing judgment
and mercy through word and deed, beginning with the Word in creation, continuing in the history of Israel,
and centering in all its fullness in the person and work of Jesus Christ.
c. The canonical Scriptures of the Old and New Testaments are the written Word of God. Inspired by God’s
Spirit speaking through their authors, they record and announce God’s revelation centering in Jesus Christ.
Through them God’s Spirit speaks to us to create and sustain Christian faith and fellowship for service in
the world.
S4.03. This synod accepts the canonical Scriptures of the Old and New Testaments as the inspired Word of God and
the authoritative source and norm of its proclamation, faith, and life.
S4.04. This synod accepts the Apostles’, Nicene, and Athanasian Creeds as true declarations of the faith of this synod.
S4.05. This synod accepts the Unaltered Augsburg Confession as a true witness to the Gospel, acknowledging as one
with it in faith and doctrine all churches that likewise accept the teachings of the Unaltered Augsburg Confession.
S4.06. This synod accepts the other confessional writings in the Book of Concord, namely, the Apology of the Augsburg
Confession, the Smalcald Articles and the Treatise, the Small Catechism, the Large Catechism, and the Formula
of Concord, as further valid interpretations of the faith of the Church.
*Required provisions.
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BULLETIN OF REPORTS
S4.07. This synod confesses the Gospel, recorded in the Holy Scriptures and confessed in the ecumenical creeds and
Lutheran confessional writings, as the power of God to create and sustain the Church for God’s mission in the
world.
*Chapter 5.
NATURE OF THE CHURCH
S5.01. All power in the Church belongs to our Lord Jesus Christ, its head. All actions of this synod are to be carried out
under his rule and authority.
S5.02. The Church exists both as an inclusive fellowship and as local congregations gathered for worship and Christian
service. Congregations find their fulfillment in the universal community of the Church, and the universal Church
exists in and through congregations. This church, therefore, derives its character and powers both from the
sanction and representation of its congregations and from its inherent nature as an expression of the broader
fellowship of the faithful. In length, it acknowledges itself to be in the historic continuity of the communion of
saints; in breadth, it expresses the fellowship of believers and congregations in our day.
*Chapter 6.
STATEMENT OF PURPOSE
S6.01. The Church is a people created by God in Christ, empowered by the Holy Spirit, called and sent to bear witness
to God’s creative,redeeming, and sanctifying activity in the world.
S6.02. To participate in God’s mission, this synod as a part of the Church shall:
a. Proclaim God’s saving Gospel of justification by grace for Christ’s sake through faith alone, according to the
apostolic witness in the Holy Scripture, preserving and transmitting the Gospel faithfully to future generations.
b. Carry out Christ’s Great Commission by reaching out to all people to bring them to faith in Christ and by
doing all ministry with a global awareness consistent with the understanding of God as Creator, Redeemer,
and Sanctifier of all.
c. Serve in response to God’s love to meet human needs, caring for the sick and the aged, advocating dignity
and justice for all people, working for peace and reconciliation among the nations, and standing with the
poor and powerless, and committing itself to their needs.
d. Worship God in proclamation of the Word and administration of the sacraments and through lives of prayer,
praise, thanksgiving, witness, and service.
e. Nurture its members in the Word of God so as to grow in faith and hope and love, to see daily life as the
primary setting for the exercise of their Christian calling, and to use the gifts of the Spirit for their life together
and for their calling in the world.
f. Manifest the unity given to the people of God by living together in the love of Christ and by joining with other
Christians in prayer and action to express and preserve the unity which the Spirit gives.
S6.03. Each synod, in partnership with the churchwide organization, shall bear primary responsibility for the oversight
of the life and mission of this church in its territory. In fulfillment of this role and consistent with policies and
procedures of this church, the synod shall:
a. Provide for pastoral care of congregations and rostered leaders in the synod;
b. Plan for, facilitate, and nurture the mission of this church through congregations;
c. Strengthen interdependent relationships among congregations, synods, and the churchwide organization,
and foster relationships with agencies and institutions affiliated with or related to this church as well as
ecumenical partners.
d. Interpret the work of this church to congregations and to the public on the territory of the synod.
S6.03.01. In providing for pastoral care of congregations and rostered leaders in the synod, the responsibilities of the
synod include the following:
a. providing for pastoral care of congregations, ordained ministers, associates in ministry, deaconesses, and
diaconal ministers in the synod, including:
1) approving candidates for the ordained ministry in cooperation with the appropriate seminaries of this church, which may be done through multi-synodical committees;
2) authorizing ordinations and ordaining on behalf of this church;
3) approving associates in ministry, deaconesses, and diaconal ministers, which may be done through
multi-synodical committees;
4) authorizing the commissioning of associates in ministry, the consecration of deaconesses, and the
consecration of diaconal ministers of this church; and
5) consulting in the calling process for ordained ministers, associates in ministry, deaconesses, and diaconal
ministers.
b. providing for leadership recruitment, preparation, and support in accordance with churchwide standards and
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BULLETIN OF REPORTS
policies, including:
1) nurturing and supporting congregations and lay leaders;
2) seeking and recruiting qualified candidates for the rostered ministries of this church;
3) making provision for pastoral care, call review, and guidance;
4) encouraging and supporting persons on the rosters of this church in stewardship of their abilities, care
of self, and pursuit of continuing education to undergird their effectiveness of service; and
5) supporting recruitment of leaders for this church’s colleges, universities, seminaries, and social ministry
organizations.
c. providing for discipline of congregations, ordained ministers, and persons on the official lay rosters; as well
as for termination of call, appointment, adjudication, and appeals consistent with Chapter 20 of this constitution.
d. providing for archives in conjunction with other synods.
S6.03.02. In planning for, facilitating, and nurturing the mission of this church through congregations, the responsibilities
of the synod include the following:
a. developing of new ministries, redevelopment of existing ministries, and support and assistance in
the conclusion, if necessary, of a particular ministry;
b. leading and encouraging of congregations in their evangelism efforts;
c. assisting members of its congregations in carrying out their ministries in the world;
d. encouraging congregations to respond to human need, work for justice and peace, care for the sick and
suffering, and participate responsibly in society;
e. providing resources for congregational life;
f. grouping congregations in conferences, clusters, coalitions, or other area subdivisions for mission purposes.
S6.03.03. In strengthening interdependent relationships among congregations, synods, and the churchwide organization,
and in fostering relationships with agencies and institutions affiliated with or related to this church as well as with
ecumenical partners, the responsibilities of the synod include the following:
a. promoting interdependent relationships among congregations, synods, and the churchwide organization,
and entering into partnership with other synods in the region;
b. fostering organizations for youth, women, and men, and organizations for language or ethnic communities;
c. developing relationships with social ministry organizations and ministries, participating in their mission
planning, and providing partnership funding;
d. supporting relationships with and providing partnership funding on behalf of colleges, universities, and
campus ministries;
e. maintaining relationships with and providing partnership funding on behalf of seminaries and continuing
education centers;
f. fostering supporting relationships with camps and other outdoor ministries;
g. fostering supporting relationships with preschools, elementary schools, and secondary schools operated by
congregations of the synod;
h. fostering relationships with ecumenical and global partners;
i. cooperating with other synods and the churchwide organization in creating, using, and supporting regions
to carry out those functions of the synod which can best be done cooperatively with other synods and the
churchwide organization.
S6.03.04. In interpreting the work of this church on the territory of the synod, the responsibilities of the synod include
the following:
a. encouraging financial support for the work of this church by individuals and congregations;
b. participating in churchwide programs;
c. interpreting social statements in a manner consistent with the interpretation given by the churchwide unit or
office which assisted in the development of the statement, and suggestion of social study issues;
d. providing ecumenical guidance and encouragement.
S6.04. Except as otherwise provided in this constitution and bylaws, the Synod Council shall establish processes that
will ensure that at least 60% of the members of the synod assemblies, councils, committees, boards, and other
organizational units shall be laypersons; and that, as nearly as possible, 50% of the lay members of assemblies,
councils, committees, boards, or other organizational units shall be female and 50% shall be male; and that,
where possible, the representation of ordained ministers shall be both male and female. This synod shall establish
processes that will enable it to reach a minimum goal that 10% of its assemblies, councils, committees, boards,
or other organizational units be persons of color and/or persons whose primary language is other than English.
S6.04. A01.It is the goal of this synod that 10% of the membership of synod assemblies, councils, committees, boards and/
or other organizational units be persons of color and/or persons whose primary language is other than English.
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BULLETIN OF REPORTS
S6.04.B09.It is the goal of this synod that at least 10 percent of the voting members of the Synod Assembly, Synod
Council, committees, and organizational units of this synod be youth and young adults. The Synod Council
shall establish a plan for implementing this goal. For purposes of the constitution, bylaws, and continuing
resolutions of this synod, the term “youth” means a voting member of a congregation who has not reached
the age of 18 at the time of election or appointment for service. The term “young adult” means a voting
member of a congregation between the ages of 18 and 30 at the time of election or appointment for service.
S6.05. Each assembly, council, committee, board, commission, task force, or other body of this synod or any synodical
units shall be conclusively presumed to have been properly constituted, and neither the method of selection nor
the composition of any such assembly, council, committee, board, commission, task force, or other body may be
challenged in a court of law by any person or be used as the basis of a challenge in a court of law to the validity
or effect of any action taken or authorized by any such assembly, council, committee, board, commission, task
force, or other body.
S6.06 References herein to the nature of the relationship between the three expressions of this church - congregations,
synods, and the churchwide organization - as being interdependent or as being in a partnership relationship
describe the mutual responsibility of these expressions in God’s mission and the fulfillment of the purposes of
this church as described in this chapter, and do not imply or describe the creation of partnerships, co-ventures,
agencies, or other legal relationships recognized in civil law.
Chapter 7.
SYNOD ASSEMBLY
S7.01. *This synod shall have a Synod Assembly, which shall be its highest legislative authority. The powers of the
Synod Assembly are limited only by the provisions in the Articles of Incorporation, this constitution and bylaws,
the assembly’s own resolutions, and the constitutions and bylaws of this church.
S7.11. *A regular meeting of the Synod Assembly shall be held at least biennially.
S7.12. Special meetings of the Synod Assembly may be called by the bishop with the consent of the Synod Council,
and shall be called by the bishop at the request of one-fifth of the voting members of the Synod Assembly.
a. The notice of each special meeting shall define the purpose for which it is to be held. The scope of actions
to be taken at such a special meeting shall be limited to the subject matter(s) described in the notice.
b. If the special meeting of the Synod Assembly is required for the purpose of electing a successor bishop
because of death, resignation, or inability to serve, the special meeting shall be called by the Synod Council
after consultation with the presiding bishop of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America.
S7.13. Notice of the time and place of all meetings of the Synod Assembly shall be given by the secretary of this synod.
S7.14. One-half of members of the Synod Assembly shall constitute a quorum.
S7.21. *The membership of the Synod Assembly, of which at least 60% of the voting membership shall be composed of
lay persons, shall be constituted as follows:
a. All ordained ministers under call on the roster of this synod in attendance at the Synod Assembly shall be
voting members.
b. All associates in ministry, deaconesses of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America, and diaconal ministers, under
call, on the official lay rosters of this synod shall have both voice and vote as lay voting members in the Synod Assembly,
in addition to the voting membership of lay members of congregations provided in item *S7.21.c.
c. A minimum of one lay member elected by each congregation with fewer than 175 baptized members and a
minimum of two lay members elected by each congregation with more than 175 baptized members related to
this synod, normally one of whom shall be male and one of whom shall be female, shall be voting members.
The Synod Council shall establish a formula to provide additional lay representation from congregations on
the basis of number of baptized members in the congregation. The Synod Council shall seek to ensure that,
as nearly as possible, 50 percent of the lay members of the assembly shall be female and 50 percent shall
be male. Additional members from each congregation normally shall be equally divided between male and
female.
d. Voting membership shall include the officers of this synod.
S7.21.01. *Voting members shall begin serving with the opening of a regular Synod Assembly and shall continue serving
until voting members are seated at the next regular Synod Assembly.
S7.22. The synod may establish processes that permit retired ordained ministers, retired associates in ministry, retired
deaconesses, and retired diaconal ministers on the roster of this synod to serve as voting members of the Synod
Assembly, consistent with *S7.21.c. above. The synod may establish processes that permit ordained ministers,
associates in ministry, deaconesses, and diaconal ministers who are on leave from call, or those designated as
disabled, on the roster of the synod to serve as voting members of the synod assembly, consistent with *S7.21.c.
above. If the synod does not establish processes to permit the rostered leaders specified above to serve as
voting members, they shall have voice but not vote in the meetings of the Synod Assembly.
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S7.23. The presiding bishop of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America and such other official representatives of
this church as may be designated from time to time by the Church Council shall have voice but not vote in the
meetings of the Synod Assembly. Like privileges shall be accorded to those additional persons whom the Synod
Assembly or the Synod Council shall from time to time designate.
S7.24. Ordained ministers under call on the roster of this synod shall remain as members of the Synod Assembly so long
as they remain under call and so long as their names appear on the roster of ordained ministers of this synod.
Associates in ministry, deaconesses of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America, and diaconal ministers of this
church serving under call on the roster of this synod shall remain as members of the Synod Assembly so long as
they remain under call and so long as their names appear on the official lay roster of this synod. Lay members
of the Synod Assembly representing congregations shall continue as such until replaced by the election of new
members or until they have been disqualified by termination of membership. Normally, congregations will hold
elections prior to each regular meeting of the Synod Assembly.
S7.25.*Except as otherwise provided in this constitution or in the Constitution, Bylaws, and Continuing Resolutions of the
Evangelical Lutheran Church in America, each voting member of the Synod Assembly shall be a voting member
of a congregation of this synod.
S7.26. This synod may establish processes through the Synod Council that permit representatives of congregations
under development and authorized worshiping communities of the synod, which have been authorized under
ELCA bylaw 10.02.03., to serve as voting members of the Synod Assembly, consistent with *S7.21.
S7.27. This synod may establish processes through the Synod Council to grant an ordained minister from a church body
with which a relationship of full communion has been declared and established by the Churchwide Assembly of
the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America the privilege of both voice and vote in the Synod Assembly during
the period of that ordained minister’s service in a congregation of this church.
S7.28. Duly elected voting members of the Synod Council who are not otherwise voting members of the Synod Assembly
under *S7.21. shall be granted the privilege of both voice and vote as members of the Synod Assembly.
S7.31.* Proxy and absentee voting shall not be permitted in the transaction of any business of this synod.
S7.32. Robert’s Rules of Order, latest edition, shall govern parliamentary procedure of the Synod Assembly, unless
otherwise ordered by the assembly.
S7.33. “Ex-officio” as used herein means membership with full rights of voice and vote unless otherwise expressly limited.
Chapter 8. OFFICERS
S8.01.* The officers of this synod shall be a bishop, a vice-president, a secretary, and a treasurer.
S8.10. Bishop
S8.11.* The bishop shall be elected by the Synod Assembly. The bishop shall be a pastor who is an ordained minister
of this church.
S8.12.* As this synod’s pastor, the bishop shall be an ordained minister of Word and Sacrament who shall:
a. Preach, teach, and administer the sacraments in accord with the Confession of Faith of this church.
b. Have primary responsibility for the ministry of Word and Sacrament in this synod and its congregations,
providing pastoral care and leadership for this synod, its congregations, its ordained ministers, and its other
rostered leaders.
c. Exercise solely this church’s power to ordain (or provide for the ordination by another synodical bishop of)
approved candidates who have received and accepted a properly issued, duly attested letter of call for the
office of ordained ministry (and as provided in the bylaws of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America).
d. Commission (or provide for the commissioning of) approved candidates who have received and accepted
a properly issued, duly attested letter of call for service as associates in ministry; consecrate (or provide for
the consecration of) approved candidates who have received and accepted a properly issued, duly attested
letter of call for service as deaconesses of the ELCA; and consecrate (or provide for the consecration of)
approved candidates who have received and accepted a properly issued, duly attested letter of call for
service as diaconal ministers of this church.
e. Attest letters of call for persons called to serve congregations in the synod, letters of call for persons called by
the Synod Council, and letters of call for persons on the rosters of this synod called by the Church Council.
f. Install (or provide for the installation of):
1) the pastors of all congregations of this synod;
2) ordained ministers called to extraparish service within this synod; and
3) persons serving in the other rostered ministries within this synod.
g. Exercise leadership in the mission of this church and in so doing:
1) Interpret and advocate the mission and theology of the whole church;
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2) Lead in fostering support for and commitment to the mission of this church within this synod;
3) Coordinate the use of the resources available to this synod as it seeks to promote the health of this
church’s life and witness in the areas served by this synod;
4) Submit a report to each regular meeting of the Synod Assembly concerning the synod’s life and work;
and
5) Advise and counsel this synod’s related institutions and organizations.
h. Practice leadership in strengthening the unity of the Church and in so doing:
1) Exercise oversight of the preaching, teaching, and administration of the sacraments within this synod
in accord with the Confession of Faith of this church;
2) Be responsible for administering the constitutionally established processes for the resolution of
controversies and for the discipline of ordained ministers, other rostered leaders, and congregations of
this synod;
3) Be the chief ecumenical officer of this synod;
4) Consult regularly with other synodical bishops and the Conference of Bishops;
5) Foster awareness of other churches throughout the Lutheran world communion and, where appropriate,
engage in contact with leaders of those churches;
6) Cultivate communion in faith and mission with appropriate Christian judicatory leaders functioning within
the territory of this synod; and
7) Be ex officio a member of the Churchwide Assembly.
i. Oversee and administer the work of this synod and in so doing:
1) Serve as the president of the synod corporation and be the chief executive and administrative officer
of this synod, who is authorized and empowered, in the name of this synod, to sign deeds or other
instruments and to affix the seal of this synod;
2) Preside at all meetings of the Synod Assembly and provide for the preparation of the agenda for the
Synod Assembly, Synod Council, and the council’s Executive Committee;
3) Ensure that the constitution and bylaws of the synod and of the churchwide organization are duly
observed within this synod, and that the actions of the synod in conformity therewith are carried into
effect;
4) Exercise supervision over the work of the other officers;
5) Coordinate the work of all synodical staff members;
6) Appoint all committees for which provision is not otherwise made;
7) Be a member of all committees and any other organizational units of the synod, except as otherwise
provided in this constitution;
8) Provide for preparation and maintenance of synodical rosters containing:
a) the names and addresses of all ordained ministers of the synod and a record of the calls under which
they are serving or the date on which they become retired or disabled; and
b) the names and addresses of all other rostered persons of this synod and a record of the positions to
which they have been called or the date on which they become retired or disabled;
9) Annually bring to the attention of the Synod Council the names of all rostered persons on leave from
call or engaged in approved graduate study in conformity with the constitution, bylaws, and continuing
resolutions of this church and pursuant to prior action of this synod through the Synod Council;
10) Provide for prompt reporting to the secretary of this church of
a) additions to and subtractions from the rosters of this synod and the register of congregations;
b) the issuances of certificates of transfer for rostered persons in good standing who have received and
accepted a properly issued, duly attested, regular letter of call under the jurisdiction of another synod;
c) the entrance of the names of such persons for whom proper certificates of transfer have been received;
11) Provide for preparation and maintenance of a register of the congregations of this synod and the names
of the laypersons who have been elected to represent them; and
12) Appoint a statistician of the synod, secure the parochial reports of the congregations, and make the
reports available to the secretary of this church for collation, analysis, and distribution of the statistical
summaries to this synod and the other synods of this church.
S8.13.* The synodical bishop may appoint an attorney, admitted to the bar within the territory of the synod or the state
where the synod is located, to be Synod Attorney. The appointment must be approved by the Synod Council and
reported to the Synod Assembly and to the ELCA secretary. The appointment continues until resignation or until
a successor is appointed. The Synod Attorney provides legal advice and counsel to the synodical officers and
the Synod Council. The Synod Attorney is expected to be familiar with the governing documents and policies
of the synod and, as necessary, to attend meetings of the Synod Council. The Synod Attorney serves without
salary but may be retained and compensated for specific legal services requested by the synod.
S8.14. The bishop may have such assistants as this synod shall from time to time authorize.
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S8.15.* The presiding bishop of this church, or the appointee of the presiding bishop, shall install into office, in accordance
with the policy and approved rite of this church, each newly elected synodical bishop.
S8.16. *Conflicts of Interest
S8.16.01.*The following procedures shall govern matters of potential conflicts of interest for synodical bishops:
a. Whenever a synodical bishop determines that a matter of the kind described in *S8.16.01.b. may require his
or her determination or action with respect to a related individual as defined in *S8.16.01.c., the synodical
bishop shall withdraw from personal involvement in such matter and shall so notify the presiding bishop. The
presiding bishop shall then appoint another synodical bishop from the same region to handle the matter to
conclusion. In dealing with such matter, the appointed bishop shall exercise all of the functions and authority
to the same extent as if the appointed bishop were the elected bishop of the withdrawing bishop’s synod.
b. Matters include any proceedings under Chapter 20, proceedings under provision 7.46. of the Constitution,
Bylaws, and Continuing Resolutions of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America (*S14.13.), candidacy,
reinstatement, and similar matters where determinations or actions by the synodical bishop could change,
limit, restrict, approve, authorize, or deny the related individual’s ministry on one of the official rosters of
this church.
c. A related individual is one who, with respect to the synodical bishop, is a spouse, parent, son, daughter,
sibling, uncle, aunt, niece, nephew, grandparent, grandchild, including corresponding members of blended
families and in-laws (parent, son, daughter, or sibling of a spouse, spouse of a sibling, or the parent or sibling
of the spouse of a sibling).
S8.20. Vice-president
S8.21.* The vice-president shall be elected by the Synod Assembly. The vice-president shall be a layperson. The vicepresident shall be a voting member of a congregation of this synod. The vice-president shall not receive a salary
for the performance of the duties of the office.
S8.22. The vice-president shall chair the Synod Council.
S8.23. In the event of the death, resignation, or disability of the bishop, the vice-president, after consultation with the
presiding bishop of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America, shall convene the Synod Council to arrange for
the conduct of the duties of the bishop until a new bishop shall be elected or, in the case of temporary disability,
until the bishop resumes full performance of the duties of the office.
S8.30. Secretary
S8.31.* The secretary shall be elected by the Synod Assembly. The secretary shall be a voting member of a congregation
of this synod. The secretary may be either a layperson or an ordained minister.
S8.32.* The secretary shall:
a. Keep the minutes of all meetings of the Synod Assembly and Synod Council, be responsible for the printing
and distribution of such minutes, and perform such other duties as this synod may from time to time direct.
b. Be authorized and empowered, in the name of this synod, to attest all instruments which require the same,
and which are signed and sealed by the bishop.
c. In consultation with the bishop, classify and arrange all important papers and documents and deposit them
in the archives of this synod.
d. Submit to the secretary of this church at least nine months before each regular Churchwide Assembly a
certified list of the voting members elected by the Synod Assembly.
S8.40. Treasurer
S8.41.* The treasurer may be elected by the Synod Assembly or may be appointed by the Synod Council. The treasurer
shall be a voting member of a congregation of this synod. The treasurer may be either a layperson or an ordained
minister.
S8.42. The treasurer shall provide and be accountable for:
a. Management of the monies and accounts of this synod, its deeds, mortgages, contracts, evidences of claims
and revenues, and trust funds, holding the same at all times subject to the order of the synod.
b. Investment of funds upon the authorization of the Synod Council.
c. Receipt and acknowledgment of offerings, contributions, and bequests made to this synod, collecting interest
and income from its invested funds, and paying regular appropriations and orders on the several accounts
as approved and directed by the Synod Council. The treasurer shall transmit each month to the treasurer
of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America the funds received by this synod for the general work of this
church.
d. Maintenance of a regular account with each congregation of this synod and informing the congregation, at
least quarterly, of the status of this account.
e. Rendering at each regular meeting of the Synod Assembly a full, detailed, and duly audited report of receipts
and disbursements in the several accounts of this synod for the preceding fiscal year, together with the
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tabulation, for record and publication in the minutes, of the contributions from the congregations.
f. Obtaining a fidelity bond in the amount determined by the Synod Council for persons handling synod funds,
which bond shall be in the custody of the secretary. The premium for the bond shall be paid for by this synod.
Fidelity coverage provided by the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America shall be deemed a fulfillment of
this requirement.
S8.50. General Provisions
S8.51.* The terms of office of the officers of this synod shall be:
a. The bishop of this synod shall be elected to a term of six years and may be reelected.
b. The vice-president and secretary of this synod shall be elected to a term of four years and may be reelected.
c. The treasurer of this synod shall be elected to a four-year term and may be reelected or reappointed.
S8.52. The terms of the officers shall begin on the first day of the third month following election, except the treasurer
whose term shall begin February 1st, or, in special circumstances, at a time designated by the Synod Council.
S8.53.* Each officer shall be a voting member in a congregation of this synod, except that the bishop need not be a
member of a congregation of the synod at the time of election.
S8.54.* Should the bishop die, resign, or be unable to serve, the vice-president, after consultation with the presiding
bishop of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America, shall convene the Synod Council to arrange for the
appropriate care of the responsibilities of the bishop until an election of a new bishop can be held or, in the case
of temporary disability, until the bishop is able to serve again. Such arrangements may include the appointment
by the Synod Council of an interim bishop, who during the vacancy or period of disability shall possess all of the
powers and authority of a regularly elected bishop. The term of the successor bishop, elected by the next Synod
Assembly or a special meeting of the Synod Assembly called for the purpose of election, shall be six years with
the subsequent election to take place at the Synod Assembly closest to the expiration of such a term and with
the starting date of a successor term to be governed by constitutional provision S8.52.
S8.55. Should the vice-president, secretary, or treasurer die, resign, or be unable to serve, the bishop, with the approval
of the Executive Committee of the Synod Council, shall arrange for the appropriate care of the responsibilities of
the officer until an election of a new officer can be held or, in the case of temporary disability, until the officer is
able to serve again. The term of the successor officer, elected by the next Synod Assembly, shall be four years.
S8.56.* The Executive Committee of the Synod Council shall determine whether an officer is unable to serve; the officer
may appeal the decision of the Executive Committee by requesting a hearing before the Synod Council. A
meeting to determine the ability of an officer to serve shall be called upon the request of at least 3 members of
the Executive Committee and prior written notice of the meeting shall be given to the officer in question at least
ten calendar days prior to the meeting.
S8.57.* The recall or dismissal of an officer may be effected in accordance with the procedure established by the
Committee on Appeals of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America.
S8.58 If the bishop is to be temporarily absent from the synod for an extended period, the bishop, with the consent of
the Synod Council, may appoint as acting bishop for such period an ordained minister of this church. Except as
limited by action of the Synod Council, an acting bishop shall possess all of the powers and authority of a regularly
elected bishop other than authority to ordain or to authorize the ordination of properly approved candidates for
ordination.
Chapter 9.
NOMINATIONS AND ELECTIONS
S9.01.* The Synod Assembly shall elect such officers of this synod and such other persons as the constitution and bylaws
may require, according to procedures set forth in the bylaws.
S9.02. In all elections by the Synod Assembly, other than for the bishop, a majority of the legal votes cast shall be
necessary for election.
S9.03. There shall be a Nominating Committee consisting of 9 members who shall be appointed by the Synod Council
to serve for each regular meeting of the Synod Assembly. Additional nominations may be made from the floor
for all elections for which nominations are made by the Nominating Committee.
S9.04. The bishop shall be elected by the Synod Assembly by ecclesiastical ballot. Three-fourths of the legal votes
cast shall be necessary for election on the first ballot. If no one is elected, the first ballot shall be considered
the nominating ballot. Three-fourths of the legal votes cast on the second ballot shall be necessary for election.
The third ballot shall be limited to the 7 persons (plus ties) who received the greatest number of legal votes on
the second ballot, and two-thirds of the legal votes cast shall be necessary for election. The fourth ballot shall
be limited to the 3 persons (plus ties) who receive the greatest number of legal votes on the third ballot, and
60 percent of the legal votes cast shall be necessary for election. On subsequent ballots a majority of the legal
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votes cast shall be necessary for election. These ballots shall be limited to the 2 persons (plus ties) who receive
the greatest number of legal votes on the previous ballot.
S9.05. The Nominating Committee shall nominate at least 2 persons for vice-president; additional nominations may be
made from the floor.
S9.06. The Synod Council shall nominate at least two persons for secretary; additional nominations may be made from
the floor.
S9.07. The Synod Council shall nominate at least two persons for treasurer; additional nominations may be made from
the floor.
S9.08. In all elections, except for the bishop, the names of the persons receiving the highest number of legal votes,
but not elected by a majority of the legal votes cast on a preceding ballot, shall be entered on the next ballot to
the number of two for each vacancy unfilled. On any ballot when only two names appear, a majority of the legal
votes cast shall be necessary for election.
S9.09 The result of each ballot in every election shall be announced in detail to the assembly.
S9.12.* Background checks and screening shall be required and completed for persons nominated as synodical officers
prior to their election, if possible, or as soon as practical after their election. The specific procedures and timing
of background checks and screening shall be determined by the Synod Council.
Chapter 10.
SYNOD COUNCIL
S10.01.*The Synod Council, consisting of the four officers of the synod, 10-24 other members, and at least one youth
and at least one young adult, shall be elected by the Synod Assembly.
a. Each person elected to the Synod Council shall be a voting member of a congregation of this synod, with the
exception of ordained ministers on the roster of this synod who reside outside the territory of this synod. The
process for election and the term of office when not otherwise provided shall be specified in the bylaws. A
member of the Church Council of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America, unless otherwise elected as
a voting member of the Synod Council, may serve as an advisory member of the Synod Council with voice
but not vote.
b. The term of office of members of the Synod Council, with the exception of the officers and the youth member,
shall be four years.
S10.02.*The Synod Council shall be the board of directors of the synod and shall serve as its interim legislative authority
between meetings of the Synod Assembly. It may make decisions which are not in conflict with actions taken by
the Synod Assembly or which are not precluded by provisions of this constitution or the Constitution and Bylaws
of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America.
S10.03.The functions of the Synod Council shall be to:
a. Exercise trusteeship responsibilities on behalf of this synod.
b. Recommend program goals and budgets to the regular meetings of the Synod Assembly.
c. Carry out the resolutions of the Synod Assembly.
d. Provide for an annual review of the roster of ordained ministers and of other official rosters, receive and act
upon appropriate recommendations regarding those persons whose status is subject to reconsideration and
action under the constitution and bylaws of ELCA, and make a report to the Synod Assembly of the Synod
Council’s actions in this regard.
e. Issue letters of call to ordained ministers and letters of call to associates in ministry, deaconesses of the
Evangelical Lutheran Church in America, and diaconal ministers as authorized by Chapter 7 of the constitution
and bylaws of ELCA.
f. Fill vacancies until the next regular meeting of the Synod Assembly except as may otherwise be provided in
the constitution or bylaws of this synod, and determine the fact of the incapacity of an officer of this synod.
g. Elect or appoint representatives to the steering committee of its region.
h. Report its actions to the regular meeting of the Synod Assembly.
i. Perform such other functions as are set forth in the bylaws of this synod, or as may be delegated to it by the
Synod Assembly.
S10.04.Any proposal to appropriate funds, whether by amendment to the budget or otherwise, which is presented to
a meeting of the Synod Assembly without the approval of the Synod Council shall require a two-thirds vote for
adoption.
S10.05.No elected member of the Synod Council shall receive compensation for such service.
S10.06.If a member of the Synod Council ceases to meet the requirements of the position to which she or he was elected,
the office filled by such member shall at once become vacant.
S10.07.The composition of the Synod Council, the number of its members, and the manner of their selection, as well
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as the organization of the Synod Council, its additional duties and responsibilities, and the number of meetings
to be held each year shall be as set forth in the bylaws.
S10.07.01 To the extent permitted by state law, meetings of the Synod Council and its committees may be held electronically
or by telephone conference, and notice of all meetings may be provided electronically.
Chapter 11.
COMMITTEES
S11.01.*There shall be an Executive Committee, a Consultation Committee, a Committee on Discipline, a Mutual Ministry
Committee, an Audit Committee, and such other committees as this synod may from time to time determine.
The duties and functions of such committees, or any other organizational units created by this synod, and the
composition and organizational structure of such units, shall be as set forth in this constitution or in the bylaws
or continuing resolutions, and shall be subject to any applicable provisions or requirements of the Constitution
and Bylaws of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America.
S11.02.*The Consultation Committee of this synod shall consist of at least six persons and not more than 12 persons,
of whom half shall be ordained ministers and half shall be lay persons, who shall each be elected by the Synod
Assembly for a term of six years without consecutive reelection. The functions of the Consultation Committee
are set forth in Chapter 20 of the Constitution, Bylaws, and Continuing Resolutions of the Evangelical Lutheran
Church in America and in Chapter 17 of this constitution. The size of the Consultation Committee, in accord with
this provision, shall be defined in this synod’s bylaw.
S11.03.*The Committee on Discipline of this synod shall consist of 12 persons of whom six shall be ordained ministers
and six shall be lay persons, who shall each be elected by the Synod Assembly for a term of six years without
consecutive reelection.
a. The functions of the Committee on Discipline of this synod are set forth in Chapter 20 of the Constitution,
Bylaws, and Continuing Resolutions of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America.
b. The terms of committee members shall be staggered so that the terms of four committee members (two
clergy and two lay) expire every two years.
c. The Synod Council shall fill vacancies on the Committee on Discipline for any unexpired term.
S11.04.*The Mutual Ministry Committee shall be appointed by the Executive Committee of the Synod Council to provide
support and counsel to the bishop.
S11.05.*The Audit Committee of this synod shall consist of three to six persons, none of whom are members of the synod
staff. Up to half of the committee members may be Synod Council members. The Audit Committee members shall
be elected by the Synod Council for a term of three years and be eligible for re-election to a second consecutive
three-year term. The terms of the Audit Committee members shall be staggered. The Audit Committee shall be
responsible for assisting the Synod Council in fulfilling its general oversight of the synod’s accounting, financial
reporting, internal control systems, and external audit processes as provided in *S15.31.
S11.10. “General Provisions”
S11.11.This synod shall in its bylaws or by continuing resolution establish a process to ensure that the members of its
committees and other organizational units will be persons possessing the necessary knowledge and competence
to be effective members of such units, and to meet the requirements of *S6.04. With the exception of ordained
ministers on the roster of this synod who reside outside the territory of this synod, each member of a committee
of this synod, or any other organizational unit created by this synod, shall be a voting member of a congregation
of this synod.
Chapter 12.
CONFERENCES, CLUSTERS, COALITIONS, OR OTHER AREA SUBDIVISIONS
S12.01.*This synod shall establish conferences, clusters, coalitions or other area subdivisions within its territory as
specified in the bylaws. The purpose of such groupings shall be to foster interdependent relationships among
congregations, institutions, and synodical and churchwide units for mission purposes.
Chapter 13.
CONGREGATIONS
S13.01.*Each congregation, except those certified as congregations of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in
America by the uniting churches, prior to being listed in the register of congregations of this synod,
shall adopt the Model Constitution for Congregations or one acceptable to this synod, that is not
in contradiction to the constitution and bylaws of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America.
a. New congregations. A congregation newly formed by this church and any congregation seeking recognition
and reception by this church shall:
1) Accept the criteria for recognition and reception as a congregation of this church, fulfill the functions of the
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congregation, and accept the governance provisions as provided in Chapter 9 of the ELCA constitution
and bylaws.
2) Adopt governing documents that include fully and without alterations the Preamble, Chapter 1, where
applicable, and all required provisions of Chapters 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 15, 16, 17, 18, and 19 in the
Model Constitution for Congregations consistent with requirements of the constitutions, bylaws, and
continuing resolutions of this church. Bylaws and continuing resolutions, appropriate for inclusion
in these chapters and not in conflict with these required provisions in the Model Constitution for
Congregations, the constitution of this synod, or the Constitution, Bylaws, and Continuing Resolutions
of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America, may be adopted as described in Chapters 16 and 18
of the Model Constitution for Congregations.
3) Accept the commitments expected of all congregations of the ELCA as stated in *C6.01., *C6.02., and
*C6.03. of the Model Constitution for Congregations.
b. Congregations from another church body. If a congregation is a member of another church body,
the leaders of the congregation first should consult with the appropriate authorities of that church
body before taking action to leave its current church body. After such consultation, leaders of the
congregation should make contact with the ELCA synod bishop or staff where the congregation is located.
c.
Recognition and reception. Recognition and reception into this church of transferring or independent
congregations by the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America is based on the judgment of the synod and
action by the synod through the Synod Council and Synod Assembly. The synod bishop shall provide for
prompt reporting of such additions to the secretary of this church for addition to the register of congregations.
S13.02.*It shall be the responsibility of each congregation of this synod annually to choose from among its voting members
laypersons to serve as members of the Synod Assembly as well as persons to represent it at meetings of any
conference, cluster, coalition, or other area subdivision of which it is a member. The number of persons to be
elected by each congregation and other qualifications shall be as prescribed in guidelines established by this
synod.
S13.11. When a pastor or when an associate in ministry, deaconess of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America, or
diaconal minister of this church resigns, the Congregation Council shall receive the letter of resignation, report
it to the congregation, and at once notify the bishop of this synod.
S13.12.A congregation under financial obligation to its former pastor or associate in ministry, deaconess of the Evangelical
Lutheran Church in America, or diaconal minister of this church shall make satisfactory settlement of the obligation
before calling a successor, and if the amount of the financial obligation is in dispute, the disputed amount shall
be paid to the Synod Council which shall resolve the dispute.
S13.19.*A congregation considering a relocation shall confer with the bishop of the synod in which it is territorially located
and the appropriate unit of the churchwide organization before any steps are taken leading to such action. The
approval of the Synod Council shall be received before any such action is effected.
S13.20.*A congregation considering development of an additional site to be used regularly for worship shall confer with
the bishop of the synod in which it is territorially located and the appropriate unit of the churchwide organization
before any steps are taken leading to such action.
S13.21.The alignment of congregations in pastoral charges, and all alterations in any alignment, shall be subject to
approval by the Synod Assembly or by the Synod Council between meetings of the Synod Assembly.
S13.22.*Each congregation of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America within the territory of this synod, except those
which are in partnership with the Slovak Zion Synod, shall establish and maintain a relationship with this synod.
S13.23. *Provision 9.71. of the ELCA constitution shall govern the relationship of this synod and a congregation of this
synod regarding the property of the congregation. This synod may transfer or convey property to a congregation
of the synod, subject to restrictions accepted by the congregation, including provision that if the Synod Council,
in its sole and exclusive discretion, determines (1) that the property is not being used to serve the mission and
ministry needs of this church, or (2) that the congregation has transferred, encumbered, mortgaged, or in any
way burdened or impaired any right, title, or interest in the property without the prior approval of the Synod
Council, then title to the property shall revert to the synod, and the congregation, upon written demand, shall
reconvey the property to the synod.
S13.24. If any congregation of this synod has disbanded, or if the members of a congregation agree that it is no longer
possible for it to function as such, or if it is the opinion of the Synod Council that the membership of a congregation
has become so scattered or so diminished in numbers as to make it impractical for such a congregation to fulfill
the purposes for which it was organized or that it is necessary for this synod to protect the congregation’s property
from waste and deterioration, the Synod Council, itself or through trustees appointed by it, may take charge and
control of the property of the congregation to hold, manage, and convey the same on behalf of this synod. The
congregation shall have the right to appeal the decision to the Synod Assembly.
..
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S13.25.This synod may temporarily assume administration of a congregation upon its request or with its concurrence.
S13.30.Discipline
S13.31.*Congregations and members of congregations are subject to discipline in accordance with the provisions of
Chapter 20 of the ELCA constitution and bylaws.
S13.40. Synodically Authorized Worshiping Communities
S13.41.Authorized worshiping communities, acknowledged under criteria, policies, and procedures
approved by the Church Council of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America, shall accept and
adhere to the Confession of Faith and Statement of Purpose of this church, shall be served by
leadership under the criteria of this church, and shall be subject to the discipline of this church
Chapter 14.
ORDAINED MINISTERS AND ASSOCIATES IN MINISTRY
S14.01.*The time and place of the ordination of those persons properly called to congregations or extraparish service
of this synod shall be authorized by the bishop of this synod.
S14.02.*Consistent with the faith and practice of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America,
a. Every ordained minister shall:
1) preach the Word;
2) administer the sacraments;
3) conduct public worship;
4) provide pastoral care; and
5) speak publicly to the world in solidarity with the poor and oppressed, calling for justice and proclaiming
God’s love for the world.
b. Each ordained minister with a congregational call shall, within the congregation:
1) offer instruction, confirm, marry, visit the sick and distressed, and bury the dead;
2) supervise all schools and organizations of the congregation;
3) install regularly elected members of the Congregation Council; and
4) with the council, administer discipline.
c. Every pastor shall:
1) strive to extend the Kingdom of God in the community, in the nation, and abroad;
2) seek out and encourage qualified persons to prepare for the ministry of the Gospel;
3) impart knowledge of this church and its wider ministry through distribution of its periodicals and other
publications; and
4) endeavor to increase the support given by the congregation to the work of the ELCA churchwide
organization and of this ELCA synod.
S14.03.The pastor (a) shall keep accurate parochial records of all baptisms, confirmations, marriages, burials,
communicants, members received, members dismissed, or members excluded from the congregation, (b) shall
submit a summary of such statistics annually to this synod, and (c) shall become a member of the congregation
upon receipt and acceptance of the call. In a parish of multiple congregations, the pastor shall hold membership
in one of the congregations.
S14.04. Whenever members of a congregation move to such a distance that regular attendance at its services becomes
impractical, it shall be the duty of the pastor to commend them, upon their consent, to the pastoral care of a
Lutheran congregation nearer to their place of residence.
S14.05. Each ordained minister on the roster of this synod shall submit a report of his or her ministry to the bishop of
the synod at least ninety (90) days prior to each regular meeting of the synod assembly.
S14.11.*When a congregation of this church desires to call a pastor or a candidate for the pastoral office in the ordained
ministry of this church:
a. Each congregation of this synod shall consult the bishop of this synod before taking any steps leading to
the extending of a call to a prospective pastor.
b. For issuance of a letter of call to a pastor or pastoral candidate by a congregation of this synod in accord
with ELCA constitutional provision 7.41., a two-thirds majority ballot vote shall be required of members of
the congregation present and voting at a meeting regularly called for the purpose of issuing such a call.
c. When the congregation has voted to issue a call to a prospective pastor, the letter of call shall be submitted
to the bishop of this synod for the bishop’s signature.
S14.12.No ordained minister shall accept a call without first conferring with the bishop of this synod. An ordained minister
shall respond with an answer of acceptance or declination to a letter of call within thirty days of receipt of such
call. In exceptional circumstances, with the approval of the bishop of this synod and the chair of the Congregation
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Council of the congregation issuing the call, an additional fifteen days may be granted to respond to a letter of
call.
S14.13.*a. The call of a congregation, when accepted by a pastor, shall constitute a continuing mutual relationship and
commitment which shall be terminated only by death or, following consultation with the synodical bishop and
for the following reasons:
1) mutual agreement to terminate the call or the completion of a call for a specific term;
2) resignation of the pastor, which shall become effective, unless otherwise agreed, no later than 30 days
after the date on which it was submitted;
3) inability to conduct the pastoral office effectively in that congregation in view of local conditions; 4) physical disability or mental incapacity of the pastor;
5)suspension of the pastor through discipline for more than three months
6) resignation or removal of the pastor from the roster of ordained ministers of this church;
7) termination of the relationship between this church and the congregation;
8) dissolution of the congregation or the termination of a parish arrangement; or
9) suspension of the congregation through discipline for more than six months.
b. When allegations of physical disability or mental incapacity of the pastor under paragraph a.4) above, or
ineffective conduct of the pastoral office under paragraph a.3) above, have come to the attention of the
bishop of this synod,
1) the bishop in his or her sole discretion may investigate such conditions personally together with a
committee of two ordained ministers and one layperson, or
2) when such allegations have been brought to the synod’s attention by an official recital of allegations
by the congregation council or by a petition signed by at least one-third of the voting members of the
congregation, the bishop personally shall investigate such conditions together with a committee of two
ordained ministers and one layperson.
c. In case of alleged physical disability or mental incapacity under paragraph a.4) above, the bishop’s committee
shall obtain and document competent medical opinion concerning the pastor’s condition. When a disability
or incapacity is evident to the committee, the bishop of this synod may declare the pastorate vacant and
the pastor shall be listed on the clergy roster as disabled. Upon removal of the disability and restoration of
the pastor to health, the bishop shall take steps to enable the pastor to resume the ministry, either in the
congregation last served or in another appropriate call.
d. In the case of alleged local difficulties that imperil the effective functioning of the congregation under
paragraph a.3) above, the bishop’s committee shall endeavor to hear from all concerned persons, after which
the bishop together with the committee shall present their recommendations first to the pastor and then to
the congregation. The recommendations of the bishop’s committee must address whether the pastor’s call
should come to an end and, if so, may suggest appropriate severance arrangements. The committee may
also propose other actions that should be undertaken by the congregation and by the pastor, if appropriate.
If the pastor and congregation agree to carry out such recommendations, no further action need be taken
by the synod.
e. If either party fails to assent to the recommendations of the bishop’s committee concerning the pastor’s call,
the congregation may dismiss the pastor only at a legally called meeting after consultation with the bishop,
either (a) by a two-thirds majority vote of the voting members present and voting where the bishop and the
committee did not recommend termination of the call, or (b) by a simple majority vote of the voting members
present and voting where the bishop and the committee recommended termination of the call.
f. If in the course of proceedings described in paragraph c. or paragraph d. above, the bishop’s committee
concludes that there may be grounds for disciplinary action, the committee shall make recommendations
concerning disciplinary action in accordance with the provisions of this church’s constitution, bylaws, and
continuing resolutions.
S14.14.*Ordained ministers shall respect the integrity of the ministry of congregations which they do not serve and shall
not exercise ministerial functions therein unless invited to do so by the pastor, or if there is no duly called pastor,
then by the interim pastor in consultation with the Congregation Council.
S14.15.*The parochial records of all baptisms, confirmations, marriages, burials, communicants, members received,
members transferred or dismissed, members who have become inactive, or members excluded from the
congregation shall be kept accurately and permanently. They shall remain the property of each congregation. At
the time of the closure of a congregation, such records shall be sent to the regional archives. The secretary of
the congregation shall attest to the bishop of this synod that such records have been placed in his or her hands
in good order by a departing pastor before:
a. installation in another field of labor, or
b. the issuance of a certificate of dismissal or transfer.
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S14.16.*The pastor shall make satisfactory settlement of all financial obligations to a former congregation before:
a. installation in another field of labor, or
b. the issuance of a certificate of dismissal or transfer, and if the amount of the financial obligation is in dispute,the
disputed amount shall be paid to the Synod Council which shall resolve the dispute.
S14.17.*During service to a congregation, an interim pastor shall have the rights and duties in the congregation of a
regularly called pastor. The interim pastor may delegate the same in part to an interim supply pastor with the
consent of the bishop of this synod. The interim pastor and any ordained ministers who may assist shall refrain
from exerting influence in the selection of a pastor. Upon completion of service, the interim pastor shall certify to
the bishop of this synod that the parochial records, for the period for which the interim pastor was responsible,
are in order.
S14.18. *With the written approval of the bishop of this synod accompanied by a clear statement of the purpose to be
served by such a departure from the normal rule of permanency of the call as expressed in *S14.13., a congregation
may call a pastor for a specific term of years. Details of such calls shall be in writing setting forth the purpose
and conditions involved. Prior to the completion of a term, the bishop of this synod or a representative of the
bishop shall meet with the pastor and representatives of the congregation for a review of the call. Such call may
also be terminated before its expiration in accordance with the provisions of *S14.13.
S14.21. All ordained ministers under a call shall attend meetings of the Synod Assembly, and the pastors of congregations
shall also attend the meetings of the conference, cluster, coalition or other area sub-division to which the
congregation belongs.
S14.30. Official Rosters of Laypersons
S14.31.*The provisions in the churchwide documents and such provisions as may be developed by the Division of Ministry
governing associates in ministry, deaconesses, and diaconal ministers of this church shall apply in this synod.
a. When a congregation of this synod desires to call an associate in ministry, deaconess, or diaconal minister
or a candidate for these official rosters of laypersons of this church:
1) Such a congregation of this synod shall consult the synodical bishop before taking any steps leading
to extending such a call.
2) Issuance of such a letter of call shall be in accord with criteria, policies, and procedures developed by
the Division for Ministry, reviewed by the Conference of Bishops, and adopted by the Church Council
3) When the congregation has voted to issue a call to an associate in ministry, deaconess, or diaconal
minister, the letter of call shall be submitted to the bishop of this synod for the bishop’s signature.
b. An associate in ministry, deaconess, or diaconal minister shall confer with the bishop of this synod before
accepting a call within this synod.
c. The call of a congregation, when accepted by an associate in ministry, deaconess, or diaconal minister,
shall constitute a continuing mutual relationship and commitment which, except in the case of the death of
the individual, shall be terminated only following consultation with the synodical bishop in accordance with
policy developed by the Division for Ministry, reviewed by the Conference of Bishops, and adopted by the
Church Council of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America.
d. Associates in ministry, deaconesses, and diaconal ministers on the roster of this synod who are serving
under call shall attend meetings of the Synod Assembly.
Chapter 15.
FINANCIAL MATTERS
S15.01.*The fiscal year of this synod shall be February 1 through January 31.
S15.11.*Since the congregations, synods, and churchwide organization are interdependent units that share responsibly
in God’s mission, all share in the responsibility to develop, implement, and strengthen the financial support
program of the whole church. The gifts and offerings of the members of ELCA are given to support all parts of
this church and thus partnership in this church should be evidenced in determining each part’s share of the gifts
and offerings. Therefore:
a. The mission of this church beyond the congregation is to be supported by such a proportionate share of each congregation’s annual budget as each congregation determines. This synod shall develop guidelines for determining “proportionate share,” and shall consult with congregational leaders to assist each congregation in making its determination.
b. This synod shall receive the proportionate share of the mission support from its congregations, and shall
transmit that percentage of each congregation’s mission support as determined by the Churchwide Assembly
to the treasurer of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America.
S15.12.*The annual budget of this synod shall reflect the entire range of its own activities and its commitment to partnership
funding with other synods and the churchwide organization. Unless an exception is granted upon the request of
this synod by the Church Council, each budget shall include the percentage of congregational mission support
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assigned to it by the Churchwide Assembly.
S15.13. On the basis of estimated income, the Synod Council shall authorize expenditures within the budget for the fiscal
year. Expenditure authorizations shall be subject to revision, in light of changing conditions, by the Synod Council.
S15.14. Except when such procedure would jeopardize current operations, a reserve amounting to no more than 16%
of the sum of the amounts scheduled in the next year’s budget for regular distribution to synodical causes shall
be carried forward annually for disbursement in the following year in the interest of making possible a more
even flow of income to such causes. The exact number of dollars to be held in reserve shall be determined by
the Synod Council.
S15.21. Appeals to the congregations of this or any other synod of the ELCA for the purpose of seeking contributions for
major, capital, or other multiyear campaign programs may be conducted by other congregation(s) or organizations
related to or affiliated with this synod, region, or national office of the ELCA with prior approval of the Synod
Assembly. Reference shall be made to the appropriate provisions in the By-laws regarding this synod’s procedures
for requesting consideration by the Synod Assembly of such an appeal.
S15.31.*This synod shall arrange to have an annual audit of its financial records conducted by a certified public accountant
firm recommended by the synod Audit Committee and approved by the Synod Council. The audited annual financial
report shall be submitted by this synod to the churchwide Office of the Treasurer and to the congregations of
this synod. The financial reports shall be in the format approved from time to time by the churchwide Office of
the Treasurer.
S15.32 *This synod shall maintain adequate, continuous insurance coverage in accordance with standards recommended
by the churchwide organization. Insurance programs offered or endorsed by the churchwide organization shall
be deemed to fulfill this obligation.
*Chapter 16.
INDEMNIFICATION
S16.01. Subject to the limitations and duties imposed by law, each person who is or was made or threatened to be made
a party to any proceeding by reason of the present or former capacity of that person as a Synod Council member,
officer, employee, or committee member of this synod shall be indemnified against all costs and expenses
incurred by that person in connection with the proceeding. Indemnification of any person by reason of that
person’s capacity as a director, officer, employee, or committee member of any other organization, regardless
of its form or relationship to this synod, is subject to the provisions of section *S16.02.
a. The term “proceeding” means a threatened, pending, or completed lawsuit, whether civil or criminal, an
administrative or investigative matter, arbitration, mediation, alternative dispute resolution, or any other
similar legal or governmental action. Except as otherwise required by law, the term “proceeding” does
not include (a) any action by this synod against the individual seeking indemnification, or (b) subject
to *S.16.04., a disciplinary hearing or related process described in Chapter 20 of this constitution.
b. The term “indemnification” includes reimbursement and advances of costs and expenses for judgments,
penalties, fines, settlements, excise taxes, reasonable attorneys’ fees, disbursements, and similar required
expenditures.
S16.02. Whenever a person who, while a Synod Council member, officer, committee member or employee of this synod,
is or was serving at the request of this synod as (or whose duties in that position involve or involved service in
the capacity of) a director, officer, partner, trustee, employee, or agent of another organization, is or was made
or threatened to be made a party to a proceeding by reason of such capacity, then such person shall be entitled
to indemnification only if (a) the Synod Council has established a process for determining whether a person
serving in the capacity described in this section shall be entitled to indemnification in any specific case, and (b)
that process has been applied in making a specific determination that such person is entitled to indemnification.
S16.03. This synod may purchase and maintain insurance on behalf of itself or any person entitled to indemnification
pursuant to this chapter against any liability asserted against and incurred by this synod or by such other person
in or arising from a capacity described in section *S16.01. or section *S16.02.
S16.04. When written charges against an ordained minister or a layperson on an official roster of this church are
made in disciplinary proceedings under Chapter 20 of the Constitution, Bylaws, and Continuing Resolutions
of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America by the synodical bishop or when written charges against a
congregation are made in disciplinary proceedings by the Synod Council or the synodical bishop, and the
discipline hearing committee determines that no discipline shall be imposed, then if such determination
is not reversed or set aside on appeal, indemnification shall be made by the synod to the accused for
reasonable attorneys’ fees and other reasonable expenses related to the defense of the charges. The
determination of the reasonableness of such fees and expenses shall be decided by the Synod Council.
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*Chapter 17.
ADJUDICATION
S17.01.The synodical bishop and the Executive Committee of the Synod Council shall be available to give counsel when
disputes arise within this synod.
S17.02.The synodical bishop and the Executive Committee of the Synod Council shall receive expressions of concern from
ordained ministers, associates in ministry or other persons on the official lay roster of this church, congregations,
and organizations within this synod; provide a forum in which the parties concerned can seek to work out matters
causing distress or conflict; and make appropriate recommendations for their resolution. When the matter at
issue cannot be resolved in this manner, the prescribed procedures for investigation, decision, appeal, and
adjudication shall be followed. Allegations or charges that could lead to the discipline of an ordained minister
or a person on the official lay roster of this church shall not be addressed by the Executive Committee but shall
be resolved through the disciplinary process set forth in the Constitution, Bylaws, and Continuing Resolutions
S17.03.When there is disagreement among units of this synod on a substantive issue that cannot be resolved by the
parties, the aggrieved party or parties may appeal to the synodical bishop and the Executive Committee of the
Synod Council for a consultation. If this consultation fails to resolve the issue, a petition may be addressed by the
parties to the Synod Council requesting it to arbitrate the issue. The decision of the Synod Council shall be final.
S17.04. When a component or beneficiary of a synod has a disagreement on a substantive issue which it cannot resolve,
it may address an appeal to the synodical bishop and the Executive Committee of the Synod Council. In this
case the decision of the Executive Committee shall prevail, except that upon the motion of a member of the
Synod Council, the decision shall be referred to the Synod Council for final action.
S17.10. Adjudication in a Congregation
S17.11. When there is disagreement among factions within a congregation on a substantive issue that cannot be resolved
by the parties, members of a congregation shall have access to the synodical bishop for consultation after
informing the chair of the Congregation Council of their intent. If the consultation fails to resolve the issue(s),
the Consultation Committee of this synod shall consider the matter. If the Consultation Committee of this synod
shall fail to resolve the issue(s), the matter shall be referred to the Synod Council, whose decision shall be final.
*Chapter 18.
AMENDMENTS, BYLAWS, AND CONTINUING RESOLUTIONS
S18.10.Amendments to Constitution
S18.11.Certain sections of this constitution incorporate and record therein required provisions of the constitution and
bylaws of this church. If such provisions are amended by the Churchwide Assembly, corresponding amendments
shall be introduced at once into this constitution by the secretary of this synod upon receipt of formal certification
thereof from the secretary of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America.
S18.12. Whenever the secretary of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America officially informs this synod that the
Churchwide Assembly has amended the Constitution for Synods, this constitution may be amended to reflect
any such amendment by a simple majority vote at any subsequent meeting of the Synod Assembly without
presentation at a prior Synod Assembly. An amendment that is identical to a provision of the Constitution for
Synods shall be deemed to have been ratified upon its adoption by this synod. The Church Council, through the
secretary of this church, shall be given prompt notification of its adoption.
S18.13.Other amendments to this constitution may be adopted by this synod through either of the following procedures:
a. An amendment may be adopted by a two-thirds vote at a regular meeting of the Synod Assembly after having
been presented in writing at the previous regular meeting of the Synod Assembly over the signatures of at
least eight members and been approved by a two-thirds vote of the voting members present and voting at
such a regular meeting of the Synod Assembly.
b. The Synod Council may propose an amendment, with notice to be sent to the congregations of this synod
at least six months prior to the next regular meeting of the Synod Assembly. Such an amendment shall
require for adoption a two-thirds vote of the voting members present and voting at such a regular meeting
of the Synod Assembly. All such amendments shall become effective upon ratification by the Churchwide
Assembly or by the Church Council.
S18.20.Amendments to Bylaws
S18.21.This synod may adopt bylaws not in conflict with this constitution nor with the constitution and bylaws of the
churchwide organization. This synod may amend its bylaws at any meeting of the Synod Assembly by a twothirds vote of voting members of the assembly present and voting. Newly adopted bylaws and amendments to
existing bylaws shall be reported to the secretary of this church.
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S18.30. Amendments to Continuing Resolutions
S18.31.This synod may adopt continuing resolutions not in conflict with this constitution or its bylaws or the constitution,
bylaws, and continuing resolutions of the churchwide organization. Such continuing resolutions may be adopted or
amended by a majority vote of the Synod Assembly or by a two-thirds vote of the Synod Council. Newly adopted
continuing resolutions and amendments to existing continuing resolutions shall be reported to the secretary of
this church.
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BYLAWS FOR THE SOUTHWESTERN PENNSYLVANIA SYNOD
OF THE EVANGELICAL LUTHERAN CHURCH IN AMERICA
SECTION ONE—SYNOD ASSEMBLY
101.11 The Synod Assembly shall meet on a regular basis annually, with the date and place to be set by the bishop,
in consultation with the Synod Council. Notice of the time and place shall be given 60 days prior to the first day of the
Synod Assembly, and shall be sent to all congregations, ordained ministers, and persons on the lay rosters (associates
in ministry, deaconesses, and diaconal ministers) of the synod.
101.12 The secretary of the synod shall prepare in advance of any Synod Assembly of the synod a roster of the
synod and deliver the roster to the Committee on Registration and Attendance. The secretary shall list as lay voting
members those persons whose credentials have been submitted by the congregations of the synod.
101.13 The secretary of the synod shall send out a Bulletin of Reports to all ministers and lay voting members at
least 15 days before each regular Synod Assembly. All reports published in the Bulletin of Reports shall be received as
information by the Synod Assembly by virtue of that fact without vote.
101.14 The bishop of the synod shall appoint the following committees for the Synod Assembly:
101.141 The Committee on the Bishop’s Report shall study the report submitted by the bishop to each regular Synod
Assembly, make appropriate comment thereon, and transmit to the Synod Assembly the recommendations of the bishop
together with any additional relevant recommendations of its own that it may deem desirable.
101.142 The Committee on Elections shall distribute, collect, and tabulate ballots used in the conduct of elections
at each regular Synod Assembly. It shall also assist the chair in counting votes for those matters involving a standing
vote.
101.143 The Committee on Minutes shall assist the secretary of the synod by recording the minutes of each session
of the Synod Assembly and present them to the Synod Assembly for approval.
101.144 The Committee on Reference and Counsel shall (a) recommend special orders for the hearing of
representatives, (b) grant or deny permission to distribute printed matter not issuing from the office of the secretary of the
synod, (c) give such assistance to the bishop as may be desired in the course of the Synod Assembly, and (d) receive
those resolutions of a general character which are not germane to the pending question or report and recommend action
to the Synod Assembly.
101.145 The Committee on Memorials shall receive all memorials from the conferences of the synod and make
recommendations to the Synod Assembly regarding these memorials.
101.146 The Committee on Registration and Attendance shall register all voting members and visitors to the Synod Assembly
and report that information to the Synod Assembly. It will be responsible for determining the seating of alternate voting members
elected by congregations when presented with appropriate documentation that the designated voting member is unable to serve.
101.147 The Committee on Worship shall be responsible for planning and conducting all worship services at the
Synod Assembly. Holy Communion shall be celebrated at each regular Synod Assembly.
101.148 The Committee on Resolutions shall provide the Synod Assembly at its concluding session with resolutions
acknowledging the leadership and participation of various persons and groups in the sessions of the Synod Assembly
deemed appropriate.
101.15 Every conference shall have the right to memorialize this synod on any matter affecting the welfare of the
church. Such memorials are to be submitted in writing to the Committee on Memorials.
101.16 Every congregation shall have the right to petition the Synod Assembly of the synod, through the Committee
on Reference and Counsel, on subjects affecting its own welfare or legitimate interests.
101.17 The Synod Assembly shall consider requests from a congregation(s) or an organization related to or affiliated
with this synod, region, or national office of the ELCA to solicit congregations of our synod for the purpose of seeking
contributions for major, capital, or other multi-year campaign programs upon fulfillment of these procedures:
1. Review of the proposed appeal by the synodical Standing Committee to which the unit relates for recommendation
to the Resource Development Committee.
2 Review of the proposed appeal by the Resource Development Committee for recommendation to the Synod
Council.
3. Review of the proposed appeal by the Synod Council for recommendation to the Synod Assembly.
101.18 All motions, resolutions, amendments, and nominations shall be made in writing and on the proper forms
available from the secretary of the synod or from the Synod Assembly pages.
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101.19 Except for items introduced by the Committee on Reference and Counsel, or items previously tabled, items
of business which are not on the agenda may be introduced on the last day of the Synod Assembly only by a two-thirds
majority vote of the Synod Assembly.
101.20 The floor of the Synod Assembly shall be divided so that those with voice and vote are seated in a restricted
area with visitors seated elsewhere in the hall.
101.21 Each voting member, or those persons accorded the privilege of seat and/or voice, when recognized by the
chair, shall state his or her name, and the name of the congregation, institution, or group he or she represents. Persons
speaking from the floor of the Synod Assembly shall use the floor microphones (if they are provided) and shall address
and speak to the chair. Such speeches shall be limited to 5 minutes on each Synod Assembly issue. Speakers may
speak a second time on the same issue, but only after all others desiring to speak have been given opportunity to do
so. Those speaking a second time shall be limited to 2 minutes.
101.22 Retired pastors and pastors who are designated as disabled or on leave from call and who are not undergoing
discipline shall have the privilege of voice and vote at Synod Assemblies. Associates in ministry, deaconesses, and
diaconal ministers who are retired, on leave from call, or designated as disabled, and who are not undergoing discipline,
on the roster of the synod shall have the privilege of voice and vote at synod assemblies, consistent with *S7.21.c. With
this provision, the membership of the Synod Assembly will comply with the requirement that at least 60% of the voting
membership shall be composed of lay persons.
101.23 Voting members shall not absent themselves from any meeting of the Synod Assembly, nor from any session
of the Synod Assembly, except with valid excuse to the chair of the Committee on Registration and Attendance.
101.24 Robert’s Rules of Order, latest edition, shall govern the conduct of business at meetings of the Synod
Assembly except where these bylaws otherwise provide.
SECTION TWO—NOMINATIONS AND ELECTIONS
102.11 At least six months prior to each annual meeting of the Synod Assembly, the secretary of the synod shall
furnish all congregations and the Nominating Committee with a list of vacancies to be filled at the next scheduled Synod
Assembly.
102.12 The Nominating Committee shall promptly prepare as its report a list of candidates with no less than 2
nominees for each office. The committee shall also provide in its report the address, occupation, congregation and other
relevant background information on each nominee. The Nominating Committee shall submit no name of a nominee who
has not consented to having his/her name submitted. The Nominating Committee shall submit its report to the secretary
of the synod no less than three months before the annual meeting of the Synod Assembly.
102.13 Upon receipt of the Nominating Committee’s report, the secretary of the synod shall prepare a ballot which
shall show the name, address, occupation, congregation and other relevant background information on each nominee.
102.14 Additional nominations may be made from the floor, but no nominee’s name shall be submitted without the
advance consent of the nominee. Biographical information as outlined in 102.13 on all additional nominations shall be
made available to all of the voting members prior to the first ballot.
102.15 Nominations from the Nominating Committee, from the Conferences, and from the floor for any office shall
not include those parish pastors who have failed to submit the completed Annual Parochial Report for the previous year.
102.16 The first ballot for those elections not requiring the distribution of biographical information shall be held at any
session of the Synod Assembly. The first ballot for all other elections shall be held at any session after the first session
of the Synod Assembly.
102.17 Terms
102.171 All terms of office shall begin at the conclusion of the Synod Assembly at which the election thereto occurred,
except as otherwise provided for in the constitution of the synod or in the governing documents of related agencies and
institutions.
102.172 In computing eligibility for continued membership on a board or committee of the synod, prior service in
completing a fractional term shall be disregarded if the unexpired term so served was less than one-half of a full term in
length of time.
102.18 Related Elections and Procedures
102.181 The procedures set forth in this section shall apply to all elections conducted by the Synod Assembly or
other church related bodies.
102.182 Election of directors to other boards and organizations shall be made in accordance with agreements
between the synod and the other boards and organizations which have previously been ratified by the Synod Assembly,
the Synod Council or the Regional Steering Committee.
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102.183 All boards and organizations shall submit to the secretary of the synod a list of vacancies for the board or
other organization to be filled at least seven months prior to each annual meeting of the Synod Assembly.
102.19 Criteria Applying to all Elections and Procedures
102.191 All elections shall adhere to the provisions of the constitution.
102.192 For the election of voting members to the Churchwide Assembly of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in
America, the Nominating Committee shall present two panels of candidates. One panel, from which one-third of the
total number of voting members will be chosen, shall be restricted to persons who have not previously served as voting
members at a Churchwide Assembly of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America. The other panel, from which
the remainder of the voting members will be chosen, may include names of persons who have attended Churchwide
Assemblies of the Church as well as names of those who have not attended such Assemblies. Nominations from the
floor for these positions shall be subject to the restrictions outlined above.
Each panel shall have sixty percent lay and forty percent clergy. The laity shall be divided to assure that fifty percent
are female and fifty percent are male.
SECTION THREE—SYNOD COUNCIL
103.11 There shall be a Synod Council of 24 people consisting of the synodical officers, conference representatives,
6 members elected at large, a young adult, and a youth. Each conference shall be represented by two persons, one
clergy and one lay. Each conference shall nominate 2 persons for each position on the Synod Council. Nominations by
conferences must be submitted to the synod Nominating Committee in an election year. Additional nominations may be
made from the floor only by a member of the same conference. Election shall be by the Synod Assembly for one fouryear term without consecutive reelection.
The 6 members at large and the young adult member shall be elected by the Synod Assembly for one four-year
term without consecutive reelection. The youth member shall be elected by the Synod Assembly for a two-year term and
shall not serve for more than two consecutive terms.
103.12 The Synod Council shall meet at least 3 times per year. A special meeting may be called by the bishop, the
Executive Committee, or by at least 6 members of the Synod Council in consultation with the bishop.
103.13 The Synod Council may appoint from time to time such committees as it deems appropriate to carry out the
work of the Synod Council.
103.14 The Synod Council shall be the board of directors of the synod and shall serve as its interim legislative
authority between meetings of the Synod Assembly. It may make decisions which are not in conflict with actions taken
by the Synod Assembly or which are not precluded by provisions of the constitution and bylaws of the ELCA.
103.15 The functions of the Synod Council shall be to:
Exercise trusteeship responsibilities on behalf of the synod.
Recommend program goals and budgets to the regular meetings of the Synod Assembly.
Carry out the resolutions of the Synod Assembly.
Provide for an annual review of the roll of ordained ministers and the rolls of lay rostered persons and take appropriate
action regarding those persons whose status is subject to reconsideration and action under the constitution and
bylaws of the ELCA.
Issue letters of call to ordained ministers and letters of call to associates in ministry, members of the Deaconess
Community of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America, and diaconal ministers as authorized by Chapter 7 of
the constitution and bylaws of the ELCA.
Fill vacancies until the next regular meeting of the Synod Assembly except as may otherwise be provided in the
constitution or bylaws of the Synod, and determine the fact of the incapacity of an officer of the synod.
Report its actions to the regular meeting of the Synod Assembly.
Establish a formula to provide additional lay representation from congregations on the basis of number of members
in the congregation. (See Constitution S7.21c)
Perform such other functions as are set forth in the bylaws of the synod, or as may be delegated to it by the Synod
Assembly.
SECTION FOUR—COMMITTEES AND OTHER ORGANIZATIONS
104.1 Committees Appointed by the Synod Council
104.11 Executive Committee
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The Synod Council shall have an Executive Committee composed of the synod officers and 4 members (2 lay and
2 clergy) of the Synod Council. The Executive Committee shall perform those functions of the Synod Council assigned
to it by the Synod Council.
104.12 Archives/History Committee
There shall be an Archives/History Committee appointed by the Synod Council which shall arrange to use Thiel
College as the archives depository.
104.2 Standing Committees of the Synod
104.21 There shall be 9 Standing Committees of the Synod. These committees shall be Congregational Life, Youth
Ministry, Global Mission, Ministry, Outreach, Communication Services, Church in Society, Stewardship and Financial
Support, and Property. Sub-committees may be added if necessary. Each committee shall consist of a minimum of 9
and a maximum of 12 members, including one Synod Council representative, chairperson, secretary, and the remaining
members-at-large.
104.22 Appointments to standing committees shall be as follows:
Synod Council shall appoint a chairperson, secretary, and Synod Council representative for each standing committee.
They shall make appointments of committee members upon the approval of the Synod Council. Appointments should
comply with the inclusiveness principle.
104.23 Appointment of committee members shall be for four-year terms with rotation every two years. No appointed
member shall serve for more than two consecutive terms. A vacancy shall be filled by a person appointed by the committee
chairperson upon approval of the Synod Council with parity being maintained. No one may serve on more than one
standing committee at a time.
104.24 All standing committees shall meet at least 2 times a year.
104.25 Each person serving on a standing committee must be a member of the synod. Pastors must be on the
roster of the synod and laity must be a voting member of a congregation of the synod.
104.26 Standing committees and their areas of responsibilities:
A. CONGREGATIONAL LIFE—responsible for equipping and enabling congregations in the areas of worship,
witness/evangelism, Christian education, spirituality, family life, and congregational social ministry.
B YOUTH MINISTRY—responsible for enabling youth to assume their place as full participants in the life of the
church by serving youth and adults working with youth.
C. GLOBAL MISSION—responsible for global mission education and advocacy, providing educational events and
programs on Global Missions, and support for missions and missionaries.
D. MINISTRY— responsible for affirmation and support of the ordained, associates in ministry, diaconal ministers,
deaconesses, specialized ministries, and laity in their ministries; continuing education for the ordained, associates in
ministry, diaconal ministers, deaconesses, and laity; candidacy preparation programs for ordination and associates in
ministry, diaconal ministers, and deaconesses; and liaison to seminaries.
E. OUTREACH—responsible for leadership and support of the Church as it reaches out to witness in this synod
through evangelism, support of urban, small and rural ministries, Mission Partners program, resource “healing teams”
(parish peacemakers), development of new ministries and new congregations, and mission strategy development. This
committee shall also relate to camps, campus ministries and educational institutions.
F. COMMUNICATION SERVICES—responsible for an overall communication strategy for this synod through
providing informational services, programs for communication training and media education, and media programs.
G. CHURCH IN SOCIETY—responsible for listening to and speaking to society on behalf of the synod, for the
monitoring of the Church’s social statements; for peace and justice advocacy, for hunger concerns – domestic and global;
and for unemployment concerns. This committee shall be responsible for social ministry advocacy, mainly the ministry of
the agencies and institutions supported by this synod. This committee shall be responsible for the review and monitoring
of the Church’s goal of inclusiveness within this synod and for providing resources and advocacy for all minorities (multicultural, women, handicapped, aging, homosexual, etc.). This committee shall also relate to Appalachian Ministry and
Lutheran Advocacy Ministries in Pennsylvania.
H. STEWARDSHIP AND FINANCIAL SUPPORT—responsible for stewardship programming and education and
the planning and implementing approved special appeals.
I. PROPERTY —responsible for the oversight, maintenance and use of synod property including land, buildings
and other physical assets.
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BULLETIN OF REPORTS
104.27 Any person having two or more unexcused absences within a year on any committee will no longer be a
member of that committee. The secretary of the committee will be responsible for notifying the member that, because
of the unexcused absences, that person is removed from committee membership.
104.3 Office of Ecumenical Affairs
104.3 There shall be an Office of Ecumenical Affairs appointed by the Bishop with Synod Council approval, accountable
to the Office of Bishop, which shall be responsible to assist the Bishop in coordinating inter-Lutheran, ecumenical, and
interfaith activities on the territory of this Synod; support and monitor the work of Christian Associates of Southwest
Pennsylvania and Pennsylvania Council of Churches; and monitor and interpret the Church’s involvement in the National
Council of Churches, World Council of Churches, and Lutheran World Federation.
104.4 Organizations of the Synod
104.4 Synodical organizations for men, women, and youth shall relate directly to the Synod Council. The president
of each organization or his/her designee shall have voice at the regular Synod Council meetings.
SECTION FIVE—CONFERENCES AND CLUSTERS
105.1 Conferences
105.11 The synod shall be subdivided into 6 conferences of approximately the same number of congregations. They
shall be numbered one through six beginning at the Ohio-Pennsylvania state line in the north and continuing clockwise
with Conference 6 ending at the West Virginia-Pennsylvania state line. Each conference shall extend from the City of
Pittsburgh to the boundary of the synod.
105.12 Congregations may request transfer to an adjoining conference through the Synod Council.
105.13 In addition to those indicated in Chapter 12, S12.01 of the constitution, the purpose of the conference shall be:
A. To prepare for Synod Assembly
B. To elect a dean
C. To nominate 2 persons for each conference position on the Synod Council (one laity and one clergy position
per conference)
105.14 The voting body at a conference meeting shall consist of 2 lay voting members (one male, one female) from
each congregation, and their ordained ministers; as well as associates in ministry, members of the Deaconess Community
of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America, and diaconal ministers, under call on the lay roster or rosters of the synod
who hold membership in a congregation of that conference; ordained ministers and members on the lay rosters of the synod
serving in specialized ministries and retired ordained ministers who hold congregational membership in that conference; and
pastors on leave from call who are not undergoing discipline and who hold congregational membership in that conference.
However, if a retired ordained minister or a pastor on leave from call is serving as an Interim Pastor for a congregation, that
ordained minister shall function as a member of the conference to which the congregation being served is a member and not
function at that time as a member of the conference in which he/she holds congregational membership. Each congregation
with a baptized membership of more than 600 but less than 850 shall be entitled to 1 additional lay voting member. Each
congregation with baptized membership of 850 or more but less than 1,000 shall be entitled to 2 additional lay voting
members. Each congregation with baptized membership of 1,000 or more but less than 1,250 shall be entitled to 3 additional
lay voting members. Each congregation with baptized membership of 1,250 or more but less than 1,500 shall be entitled
to 4 additional lay voting members. Congregations which have a baptized membership of 1,500 or more shall be entitled
to an additional lay voting member for each increment of 250 additional baptized members. Additional voting members
from each congregation shall be divided equally between male and female if there are an even number of additional voting
members. If there is an odd-number of voting members, the odd numbered voting member may be either male or female.
105.15 Ordained ministers serving church institutions shall be members of the conference in which their congregational
membership is held and not the conference in which their institution is located. Ordained ministers on the roster of this
synod living outside the synod boundaries may join the conference of their choice.
105.16 Each conference shall meet annually in the spring, prior to the Synod Assembly, to conduct elections, interpret
the programs of the Synod, adopt memorials to the Synod, and conduct a pre-assembly caucus. Special meetings may
be called by the dean or the bishop. Meetings shall be called with at least two weeks written notice.
105.17 A quorum shall be constituted when at least one-third of the congregations of the conference are represented
by either a lay voting member or an ordained minister.
105.18 Each conference shall elect one of its pastors under call as dean, a secretary, and at least two representatives
(lay and clergy) to serve on the Conference Cabinet. The dean, secretary, and other cabinet representatives shall serve
no more than two two-year terms consecutively.
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BULLETIN OF REPORTS
105.19 The dean shall serve as the liaison between the Synod and the conference. The dean will serve as the
chairperson of the conference and the Conference Cabinet and perform any other duties assigned by the bishop.
105.20 The secretary will perform all the normal secretarial duties on behalf of the conference and cabinet.
105.21 The primary role of the Conference Cabinet shall be to plan conference meetings and to advise the dean
concerning conference events.
105.22 In the event of a vacancy in the office of dean, the bishop shall appoint another pastor of the conference
under call to serve until the next conference meeting.
105.23 In the event of a vacancy in the office of secretary or in one of the positions of representative, the cabinet
shall appoint a successor until the unexpired term is filled at the next meeting of the conference.
105.24 A conference may adopt for itself any rules and regulations not in conflict with the constitution and bylaws
of the Synod.
105.3 Clusters
105.31 Groups of congregations/pastors shall be encouraged to form clusters, without regard for conference
boundaries.
105.32 The purpose of clusters shall include, but not be limited to:
A. Any project of mutual concern
B. Study and training groups
C. Sharing of special skills
D. Christian fellowship groups of a non-geographic nature.
105.33 Clusters shall be free to organize and disband at will, and they shall be encouraged, but not required, to
share their experiences with others, through the synod office.
105.34 Clusters shall be self-supporting, and shall establish their own rules of procedure that are consistent with
the constitution of this synod and the ELCA.
42
Amended 2014
BULLETIN OF REPORTS
VOTING MEMBERS to the
2016 ELCA CHURCHWIDE ASSEMBLY from the SOUTHWESTERN PENNSYLVANIA SYNOD
PANEL 1
Persons who have not attended an ELCA Assembly
LAYWOMAN
Ms. Christine F. Stahl
118 Arrowhead Lane; Ligonier, PA 15658-3563
724-610-5049
LAYMAN
Mr. Andrew Sabol
120 Lakewood Drive; Canonsburg, PA 15317
724-809-0687
FEMALE YOUTH LAYPERSON
Ms. Fiona G. Lubold
517A Sangree Road; Pittsburgh, PA 15237
412-491-9686
CLERGY
The Rev. Edward F. Sheehan
9625 Perry Highway; Pittsburgh, PA 15237
The Rev. Margarethe Galbraith-Cordes 200 East Grandview Ave.; Zelienople, PA 16063
412-367-8222
724-452-8110
PANEL 2
Persons who have or have not attended an ELCA Assembly
Ms. Holly O. Schmitt
Deacon Amy B. Santoriello
LAYWOMEN
469 Macassar Drive; Pittsburgh, PA 15236
537 Springdale Drive; Pittsburgh, PA 15235
412-973-5720
412-225-8706
LAYWOMAN
Person of color or whose primary language is other than English
Ms. Teresa L. Armor
119 Shangri La Drive; Monroeville, PA 15146
412-916-4040
LAYMAN
Person of color or whose primary language is other than English
Mr. Steven D. Gallego
136 Bronx Avenue; Pittsburgh, PA 15229
201-355-6377
LAYMAN
Dr. Edward W. Sites
3829 Rural Court West; Pittsburgh PA 15221
412-731-5298
YOUNG ADULT MALE LAYPERSON
Mr. Colin Blackburn
120 Reed Lane; Butler, PA 16002
724-290-5708
CLERGY
The Rev. Christina A. Hough
The Rev. William A. Schaefer
The Rev. Scott A. Bryte
933 Brookline Blvd.; Pittsburgh, PA 15226
1325 Mission Road; Latrobe, PA 15650
124 Ambleside Drive; Pittsburgh, PA 15237
412-477-9729
724-537-7273
412-726-5735
SYNOD VICE PRESIDENT
Mr. R. Brandon James
1189 Route 68, New Brighton, PA 15066
724-843-5037
SYNOD BISHOP
The Rev. Kurt F. Kusserow
9625 Perry Highway, Pittsburgh, PA 15237
43
412-367-8222
May, 2016
44
29,358
31,544
12,911
75
20.05
13,466
77
20.17
Total Weekly Worship Attendance
Avg Sunday Attendance per Cong
PCT Bapt Mbrs Attending Worship
Analysis of Membership Gains and Losses
Active Participants
-2
-0.12
-555
-2,186
141
552
411
Baptized Members Confirmed
22
-28
1,330
1,324
728
466
3,095
4,289
706
494
1,765
2,965
Baptized Members -- Removed
By Death
By Transfer
From Other Sources and Stat Adjs
Baptized Members -- Total Removed
-42
1
-71
77
-150
-185
-2.60
-0.59
-4.12
-6.93
34.31
3.12
-5.67
75.35
44.49
-6.46
1.75
-15.71
15.22
-49.83
-9.41
-3.56
-6.15
-2,377
-3,172
650
57
452
506
301
1,966
608
58
381
583
151
1,781
64,385
48,371
4.27
-0.58
-0.58
----
Percent
5
-1
-1
0
Change
By Baptism - Children Under Age 16
By Baptism - Adults Age 16 and Older
By Affirmation of Faith
By Transfer
From Other Sources and Stat Adjs
Baptized Members -- Total Received
Baptized Members -- Received
Analysis of Membership Gains and Losses
66,762
51,543
122
117
Congregations - Filed Form A
Baptized Members
Confirmed Members
172
172
0
173
173
0
2014
Congregations
Congregations - Organized
Congregations - Under Development
Totals -- End of Year
Summary of Membership Statistics
2013
Statistical Analysis
Page 1 of 4
Run Date 09/11/15
374.33
281.23
0.87
12.71
Young Adult Activities 18-30
Bible Study or Other
Adult Christian Education
Identifying and Using Spiritual
Gifts of Active Participants
Social Justice Activities
Community Service Activities
Stewardship
Evangelism/Recruitment Activities
Support Groups
(Bereavement,Divorce, 12-Step)
Fellowship/Social Activities
3.42
4.31
24.17
1.71
1.72
0.86
21.85
2.56
2.56
3.42
Prayer, Meditation or Spiritual
Development Activities
5.13
Christian Education 16-19
Other Activities 16-19
36.67
17.50
7.63
7.63
Confirmation Ministry
Worship
Music
Christian Education 15 or Younger
Other Activities for Children
Percent of Congregations Reporting
Programs/Activities as the Congregation's
Specialty (2014 Form A)
Baptized Members (/172)
Confirmed Members (/172)
Averages per Congregation Reporting
Form A - Summary of Congregational Statistics as of 12/31/2014
8B Southwestern Pennsylvania Synod, ELCA
CD170 Report
BULLETIN OF REPORTS
May, 2016
May, 2016
1,452,745
356.68
474.76
1,492,758
348.22
451.04
Projected Mission Support
45
19,949,507
3,298,398
1,468,806
211,822
1,820,205
20,899,544
1,499,167
1,237,542
1,616,424
244,785
25,202
36,953
23,611
21,348
6,790
120,116
347,503
826,308
601,791
288,144
25,503
18,120
14,029
6,928
8,777
189,595
353,403
904,499
531,631
Other Synod Benevolence
Other CWO Benevolence
Benevolence - Another Country
Benevolence - Camps
Benevolence - Colleges
Benevolence - Seminaries
Benevolence - Social Service
Benevolence - Other Direct Recipient
Subtotal Non-Mission Supt Benev
Other Expenses & Realized Losses
Current Operating Expenses
Capital Improvements
Payments on Debts
Mission Support
21,018,134
1,889,119
1,220,418
1,628,435
Detail of Financial Statistics - Disbursements
Regular Giving by Members
Designated Giving by Members
Earned Income (any source)
Grants (any source)
All Other Receipts
Detail of Financial Statistics - Receipts
Average Total Giving / Bapt Member
Average Total Giving / Conf Member
19,845,473
3,119,072
1,694,401
152,354
1,895,089
67
1,001,885
43
1,456,287
Number of Bequests Received
Total Value of Bequests Received
Total Receipts
Total Disbursements
Assets, Value on December 31
Total Indebtedness on Dec 31
26,706,389
26,708,137
332,801,339
7,802,162
2014
26,748,738
27,220,132
317,898,184
8,311,718
Totals -- End of Year
Summary of Financial Statistics
2013
70,160
-5,900
-78,191
14,420
-1,987
-69,479
-43,359
-301
18,833
9,582
-118,590
-389,952
17,124
-12,011
-104,034
-179,326
225,595
-59,468
74,884
8.46
23.72
-40,013
24
-454,402
-42,349
-511,995
14,903,155
-509,556
Change
13.20
-1.67
-8.64
208.14
-22.64
-36.65
-15.05
-1.18
103.93
68.30
-0.56
-20.64
1.40
-0.74
-0.52
-5.44
15.36
-28.07
4.11
2.43
5.26
-2.68
55.81
-31.20
-0.16
-1.88
4.69
-6.13
Percent
Statistical Analysis
Page 2 of 4
Run Date 09/11/15
(/169)
(/170)
(/170)
(/47)
0.45
Benevolence - Social Service
Other Expenses & Realized Losses
2.26
1.30
3.10
0.09
0.08
0.03
Benevolence - Camps
Benevolence - Colleges
Benevolence - Seminaries
Benevolence - Direct Recipient
Subtotal Non-Mission Supt Benev
0.92
0.09
0.14
78.33
5.62
4.64
6.06
2.34
73.53
Other Synod Benevolence
Other CWO Benevolence
Benevolence - Another Country
Current Operating Expenses
Capital Improvements
Payments on Debts
Mission Support
Percent of Total Disbursements
Percent--Indebtedness / Assets
Percent--Congs With No Debt
9.20
14,953.51
158,025.97
157,106.69
1,957,654.94
166,003.45
Number of Bequests / 100 Deaths
Average Value per Bequest
Total Receipts
Total Disburse
Assets Val 12/31
Total Indebtedness
Averages per Congregation Reporting
CD170 Report
BULLETIN OF REPORTS
293,641,126
22,526,866
12,772,987
3,860,360
19,008,929
11,765,089
4,592,961
Cash, Savings, Bonds, etc
All Other Assets
Church Real Estate
282,531,205
2014
Endowment and Memorial Funds
Assets, Value on December 31
Detail of Financial Statistics
2013
-732,601
1,007,898
3,517,937
11,109,921
Change
-15.95
8.57
18.51
3.93
Percent
CD170 Report
Page 3 of 4
Run Date 09/11/15
BULLETIN OF REPORTS
46
May, 2016
May, 2016
45
4
6
African National/African-Caribbean
American Indian/Alaska Native
Arab/Middle Eastern
21
38
166
4
22
41
173
4
Latino/Hispanic
Multi-racial
White/Caucasian
Other
47
8
76
58
723
33,202
5
7
76
54
671
35,714
6
Arab/Middle Eastern
Asian/Pacific Islander
Latino/Hispanic
Multi-racial
White/Caucasian
Other
Under Development
Very Small
Small
Moderately Small
Medium Sized
Moderately Large
Large
Very Large
0
1 - 175
176 - 350
351 - 500
501 - 700
701 - 950
951 - 1,500
> 1,500
Size of Congs
Distribution of Congregations by Size
Total
Congs
0
52
50
27
20
10
12
1
0.00
30.23
29.07
15.70
11.63
5.81
6.98
0.58
Percent
7.75
-7.03
-16.67
52
-2,512
-1
5,337
12,532
11,213
11,386
8,235
13,418
2,264
0.00
8.29
19.46
17.42
17.68
12.79
20.84
3.52
Percent
Baptized Members
7.41
14.29
0.00
60.00
-25.39
40.00
-4.05
0.00
-4.55
-7.32
6.45
0.00
33.33
100.00
-2.17
Percent
1
0
4
6
-294
2
-7
0
-1
-3
2
0
1
3
-1
Change
Total Bapt
Members
--
16
10
Congregations
864
7
African American/Black
African National/African-Caribbean
1,158
5
Total Ethnic Active Participants
4
33
4
31
3
3
2014
46
Congregations Reporting Ethnic
Active Participants
2013
Page 4 of 4
Run Date 09/11/15
Total
Congs
0
71
54
21
12
9
4
1
0.00
41.28
31.40
12.21
6.98
5.23
2.33
0.58
Percent
Congregations
Multi-racial
White/Caucasian
Other
Latino/Hispanic
2.07
94.97
0.01
0.17
0.02
0.22
0.05
6,925
13,213
8,544
7,009
6,985
4,133
1,562
0.00
14.32
27.32
17.66
14.49
14.44
8.54
3.23
Percent
Confirmed Members
Total Conf
Members
--
Arab/Middle Eastern
African Nat'l/African-Caribbean
2.47
0.02
96.51
2.33
12.21
22.09
19.19
2.33
2.33
3.49
26.16
Percent Ethnic Active Participants
White/Caucasian
Other
Latino/Hispanic
Multi-racial
Arab/Middle Eastern
African Nat'l/African-Caribbean
Percent of Congregations Reporting
Ethnic Active Participants
CD170 Report
BULLETIN OF REPORTS
No Resp
No Resp
Adult Bible Studies
96
17
Yes
No
Vacation Bible School
80
32
Yes
No
48
56
28
15
8
Create Own Materials...........
Independent Publishers.........
Other Denominational Publisher.
No Response to Any.............
0
9
58
Discernment Retreat.............
Other...........................
No Response to Any..............
Yes
German.................
Hmong..................
Indonesian.............
Inupiaq................
0
0
0
0
0
0
116
Batak..................
Burmese................
Cantonese..............
Creole.................
Danish.................
Dinka..................
English................
Japanese...............
Kiswahili..............
Korean.................
Estonian...............
Finnish................
French.................
0
0
0
Amharic................
Anyuak.................
Arabic.................
13
0
0
0
1
0
0
0
0
0
0
No
No Resp
36
37
No
60
No Resp
4
12
6
39
No
71
No Resp
Scheduled First Sunday after Labor Day
20
20
55
Yes
No
No Pref
No Resp
21
Oromo..................
Portuguese.............
Sign...................
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
Thai...................
Tigrinya ..............
Vietnamese.............
Tagalog................
Taiwanese..............
Tamil..................
Telugu.................
Slovak.................
Spanish................
Swahili................
Swedish................
To a Great Extent................
To Some Extent...................
To a Small Extent................
Hardly at All....................
No Response to Any...............
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
28
62
12
2
12
C40 Extent to Which Congregants Understand
Themselves to be a Part of the ELCA
Mandarin...............
Navajo.................
Norwegian..............
Nuer...................
6
Would Participate if an Annual Event
59
22
35
Yes
No
No Resp
Yes
C39 Participated in "God's Work. Our Hands."
Sunday, the Day of Service in September
Mid-week Morning.................
Mid-week Evening.................
No Response to Any...............
C38 Congregation Schedules Regular Worship
Sunday Morning...................
110
Sunday Evening...................
2
Saturday Evening.................
25
Yes
19
Run Date 09/11/15
Page 1 of 1
C37 Child Sexual Abuse Prevention Policy
Lakotah................
Lao....................
Latvian................
Maban..................
67
C36 Contacted by The Campaign for the ELCA
35
30
6
16
Sharing Information about Rostered
Leadership in the ELCA........
Mentoring.......................
Seminary Visit..................
Financial Support...............
C35 Call Discernment Support Provided
63
Facebook...
Twitter.....
Website....
84
Other.......
5
9
26
6
C34 Congregation Uses Social Media
41
0
56
88
3
64
Assistive Hearing Devices.......
Sign Language Interpreters......
Special Needs Outreach/Support..
Building Wheelchair Access......
Braille Worship Materials.......
Large Print Worship Materials...
C32 Languages in which Liturgies are Regularly Conducted
84
25
43
4
3
4
2
2
Augsburg Fortress Resources....
Concordia Publishing Resources.
Sparkhouse.....................
C31 Curriculum Used
No Resp
34
Confirmation
78
Yes
No
No Resp
64
Mid-week Education
50
Yes
No
No Resp
12
Sunday School
102
Yes
No
C30 Educational Ministry Provided
C33 Congregation Provides Assistance
to People with Disabilities
Form C - Summary of Congregational Information as of 12/31/2014
(116 Congs Filed)
CD180 Report
BULLETIN OF REPORTS
May, 2016
May, 2016
49
First English
06434
10301 Walter Rd (North
Park)
241 N Main St
4517 Mount Royal Blvd
432 Harkins Mill Rd
616 Washington St
393 Adams St
638 California Ave
616 W North Ave
1308 Spring Garden Ave
28 Pittsburgh St
615 Grant St
10 N Fremont Ave
2601 Highland Ave
2323 Old Butler Rd
1001 10th Ave
106 Van Kirk Rd
819 Washington Ave
Economy Boro
207 Spring Ave
307 Wayne Ave
409 11th St
45 Maple Dr
1098 3rd St
2800 Conway Wallrose Rd
399 State St
798 Park Rd
2147 Ridge Road Ext
2100 Irwin St
100 Center Grange Rd
Location Address
Butler, PA
Allison Park, PA
Allison Park, PA
Zelienople, PA
Sewickley, PA
Rochester, PA
Pittsburgh, PA
Pittsburgh, PA
Pittsburgh, PA
Pittsburgh, PA
Pittsburgh, PA
Pittsburgh, PA
New Castle, PA
New Castle, PA
New Brighton, PA
Monaca, PA
Monaca, PA
Freedom, PA
Ellwood City, PA
Ellwood City, PA
Beaver Falls, PA
Beaver, PA
Beaver, PA
Baden, PA
Baden, PA
Ambridge, PA
Ambridge, PA
Aliquippa, PA
Aliquippa, PA
Kimberly M. Van Driel
Scott A. KuechenmeisterHall
Paul L. Lubold
1843
1854
1966
866
167
234
9,930
Conference Totals:
522
759
212
497
650
49
756
251
318
253
164
189
180
954
513
65
355
319
320
577
345
199
223
217
450
Bapt
Mbrs
593
1907
1854
1894
1860
1888
1907
1837
1907
1895
1970
1888
1929
1868
1840
1894
1902
1886
1954
1928
1876
1858
1904
1938
1875
1954
Year
Orgn
1873
Nathaneil C. Christman
Thomas E. Moog
Gregory S. Clagg
John M. Cawkins
Brian A. Evans
Jennifer R. McCurry
David A. Snyder
Anna P. Weirick
Martin J. Galbraith
Margaret A. Suhr-Barkley
Kimberly A. Rapczak
Freda A. Snyder
Freda A. Snyder
Jill E. McGregor
Jill E. McGregor
Michael J. Sourwine
Anna P. Weirick
Leaders
Code Key: * = 2014 data not available as of report run date, C = Congregation Under Development
EN
EN
St Paul Evangelical
EN
EN
10261
Oak Grove
06458
EN
St Paul's
06456 *
EN
EN
EN
EN GE
EN
EN
Conference: 02 Two
06566
Nativity
Grace Evangelical
06453
EN
St Michael And All Angels'
07231 *
Trinity
St James
06554 *
Trinity
First
06585
06560
Emanuel
06541 *
10477 *
EN
St John Evangelical
06346
EN
Good Shepherd
06394
EN
EN
Trinity Evangelical
VanKirk
06461
EN
EN
EN
EN
EN
EN
EN
EN
EN
EN
06452 *
Redeemer
Christ's
06432
New Hope Evangelical
Hope
06431 *
06449
Holy Trinity
06430
07833 *
Rehoboth Evangelical
06438 *
St Paul
Christ Evangelical
06428 *
Trinity
Zion's First
06427 *
06440
Our Savior
10262 *
06439
EN
EN
EN
House Of Prayer
Lang
Codes
06426
Congregation Name
Conference: 01 One
06425
Faith
Cong
ID
City, State
Name and Address Summary Report as of December 31, 2014
CD150 Report
597
164
183
7,149
240
404
622
155
196
306
45
627
188
195
189
143
189
174
622
399
65
251
252
243
416
345
99
157
177
450
Conf
Mbrs
94
26
67
1,874
71
97
161
39
37
88
20
299
56
49
47
59
30
73
172
101
25
46
50
45
63
52
33
48
83
30
Avg
Atnd
Page 1 of 7
Run Date 09/11/15
BULLETIN OF REPORTS
Holy Trinity
St John
Hope Evangelical
30017
10331 *
06441
50
First English
Good Shepherd
St John's
St John's Lutheran Church
Of Highland
Emmanuel
Rider
St Luke's
Perry Highway
Trinity
English
Seaman Memorial
06544 *
06536
10460
06555
06451 *
06355
10549
10550 *
06561
06457
06459
EN
EN
EN
EN
EN
EN
EN
EN
EN
EN
EN
EN
EN
EN
EN
EN
EN
EN
EN
EN
EN
EN
EN
EN
EN
EN
EN
Lang
Codes
401 S Main St
200 E Grandview Ave
2500 Brandt School Rd
11403 Perry Hwy
305 Center Ave
189 Rider Church Rd
143 Church St.
311 Cumberland Rd
920 Perry Hwy
1610 Powers Run Rd
125 N Main St
161 6th Ave
66 Grant Ave
157 Peony Ave
917 Evergreen Ave
517 Sangree Rd
420 Beaver St
557 Perry Hwy
235 Stone Church Rd
1719 Mount Royal Blvd
3832 Gibsonia Rd
202 Van Buren St
8070 Rowan Rd
100 Main St
2217 Chicora Rd
120 Sunset Dr
123 E Diamond St
Location Address
Zelienople, PA
Zelienople, PA
Wexford, PA
Wexford, PA
West View, PA
West Sunbury, PA
Prospect, PA
Pittsburgh, PA
Pittsburgh, PA
Pittsburgh, PA
Pittsburgh, PA
Pittsburgh, PA
Pittsburgh, PA
Pittsburgh, PA
Pittsburgh, PA
Pittsburgh, PA
Mars, PA
Harmony, PA
Harmony, PA
Glenshaw, PA
Gibsonia, PA
Evans City, PA
Connoquenessing,
PA
Cranberry
Township, PA
Chicora, PA
Butler, PA
Butler, PA
Wilfred K. Goetze
Frederick P. Schenker
Janet M. Montelaro
Dennis J. Ferguson
Cynthia K. Baxter
William B. Diehm
Kari B. Smail
Michael H. Robinson
Robert L. Musser
Jonathan J. Lynn
David M. Littke
Larry E. Kemp
Heather R. Lubold
Scott A. Bryte
Robert F. Zimmerman
Barbara E. Love
Daniel P. Smail
Mark C. Nurnberger
Anthony J. Schneck
Ronald A. Brown
Christopher J. Suehr
Joseph J. Boomhower
Joel A. Benson
Tara R. Lynn
Leaders
1928
1843
1845
1952
1907
1843
1843
1829
1867
1895
1887
1930
1900
1955
1900
1948
1897
1842
1806
1930
1911
1849
1916
1886
1848
1912
1890
Year
Orgn
51
385
660
990
159
157
280
1,218
925
339
112
165
416
118
502
1,099
246
315
79
954
650
415
1,191
156
1,023
1,017
495
Bapt
Mbrs
Faith
10402 *
06537
Emmanuel
Berkeley Hills
10409 *
06542
St John
06448
Christ
Zion
06445 *
Christ
St John (Stone)
06533
06540 *
Bethlehem
10372
06539
St Peter
Trinity
06442
06436
Grace @ Calvary
Evangelical
Trinity
Congregation Name
06435 *
Cong
ID
City, State
CD150 Report
51
379
528
990
128
135
231
1,011
722
298
112
125
256
90
409
957
169
234
61
7
461
294
847
118
735
871
470
Conf
Mbrs
120
60
186
186
37
40
52
249
174
91
36
51
44
36
116
235
66
62
20
211
134
80
407
39
178
229
89
Avg
Atnd
Page 2 of 7
Run Date 09/11/15
BULLETIN OF REPORTS
May, 2016
May, 2016
51
St Mark
St Paul
St Paul's Highfield
Evangelical
06415 *
06416
06422
06423 *
EN
EN
EN
EN
EN
EN
EN
EN
EN
EN
EN
EN
EN
EN
EN
EN
EN
EN
EN
EN
134 W Main St
1595 Dime Rd
300 E 8th & Lock St
600 Pittsburgh St
304 Morewood Ave
1736 Jancey St
5707 Penn Ave
221 Ridge Ave
1500 Broadview Blvd
Water St
3084 Leechburg Rd
201 Main St.
253 Forks Church Rd
358 Main St
228 Rupp Church Rd
323 5th St
720 State Route 2020
2264 Garretts Run Rd
1038 4th Ave
854 Garretts Run Rd.
Marsha A. Adams
Jack A. Delk
Terri R. Landers
James V. Arter
Jocelyn Johnston
Beth Ann R. Hawk
Beth Ann R. Hawk
Manorville, PA
Jack A. Delk
Worthington, PA
Vandergrift, PA
Tarentum, PA
Springdale, PA
Pittsburgh, PA
Pittsburgh, PA
Pittsburgh, PA
1878
256
356
63
268
6,153
382
8,353
596
30
32
889
258
361
206
100
250
76
351
76
458
146
511
544
155
420
531
347
187
233
350
277
396
758
121
197
1,216
78
279
1847
1870
1886
1867
1890
1908
1869
1891
1972
248
333
176
151
273
170
166
66
393
178
72
526
11,753
120
Conf
Mbrs
1,382
56
80
10
47
127
30
58
71
66
49
100
74
102
52
45
92
48
27
32
50
38
18
39
71
3,470
55
Avg
Atnd
Page 3 of 7
Run Date 09/11/15
Conference Totals:
Patricia A. Schneck
Ross I. Carmichael
Keith A. Josephson
Beth L. Siefert
John J. Gropp
Melba T. Dibble
Natrona Heights,
PA
New Kensington, PA Alfred S. Petrill
1850
1814
1817
1814
1786
1800
1848
1806
1889
1840
1846
1922
1841
1858
154
15,538
Bapt
Mbrs
1821
Year
Orgn
Conference Totals:
Beth Ann R. Hawk
Lower Burrell, PA Elaine M. Hower
Leechburg, PA
Leechburg, PA
Leechburg, PA
Kittanning, PA
Freeport, PA
Ford City, PA
Ford City, PA
Ford City, PA
Ford City, PA
Ford City, PA
Arnold, PA
Apollo, PA
Apollo, PA
Zelienople, PA
Leaders
Messiah
St Andrew
East Liberty
06583
06589 *
First Evangelical
06405 *
20251
Grace
Faith
Bethesda
06404
06399
Hebron
06395
06649
Forks-Zion
First Evangelical
06393
06396
Trinity
Christ (Rupp)
06343 *
06397
United Rockville
06386
06389
St John
St Michael
06388
Emmanuel (Heilman)
06398
119 Bethel Church Rd
1721 Victoria Ave
EN
EN
Bethel
06384
3623 Lutheran Church Rd
06418 *
214 N Pennsylvania Ave
Spring Church Evangelical
Lutheran
Calvary
EN
215 N Main St
EN
EN
Location Address
06414
St Paul
10561
Lang
Codes
Conference: 03 Three
06383
First
Congregation Name
Cong
ID
City, State
CD150 Report
BULLETIN OF REPORTS
St Matthias Evangelical
Zion's Evangelical
06503
06501
52
Good Shepherd
Christ's
Faith
St Mark
St John's
Emmanuel Evangelical
Hope
Zion
Sons of Zebedee
St Mark
Apostles
Trinity
06575 *
06578
30340 *
06521
06571
10470
06588 *
06595
06339
06526 *
06597
06598
EN
EN
EN
EN
EN
EN
EN
EN
EN
EN
EN
EN
EN
EN
701 Allegheny River Blvd
447 Hamil Rd
324 Fairmont Ave
422 Salt St
11609 Frankstown Rd
353 Ridge Ave
1229 Jefferson Heights Rd
715 Lincoln Hwy
126 W. Pennsylvania Ave.
6810 Route 22 Hwy E
5330 Logan Ferry Rd
4503 Old William Penn Hwy
1407 Darlington Rd
300 W Main St
331 Weldon St
6.7 Mi SE of PA 982 on
Bethel
1325 Mission Rd
216 N 1st St
211 Gaskill Ave
407 Constitution Ave
3417 Route 130
140 S Pennsylvania Ave
100 Chapel View Dr
671 Baltzer Meyer Pike
501 Fairfield Dr
246 S Main St
194 Main St
101 W 4th Ave
301 E Pittsburgh St
125 N Liberty St
Location Address
Brian B. Chaffee
Paul M. Gruesu
John M. Smaligo
Peter E. Nordby
Frank S. Podolinski
Jerry L. Nuernberger
Marleen E. Griffith-Stull
Keith A. Deckinger
Kara J. Propst
Annette M. Woodman-Howe
Ryan D. Kobert
Wayne G. Gillespie
Robert J. Schaefer
Paul D. Poerschke
Jeffrey L. Schock
William A. Schaefer
Annette M. Woodman-Howe
Verona, PA
Verona, PA
Trafford, PA
Saltsburg, PA
Pittsburgh, PA
Pittsburgh, PA
Melissa L. Stoller
Amy B. Santoriello
Susan C. Schwartz
North Versailles, Richard W. Krug
PA
Pittsburgh, PA
Linda C. Theophilus
New Stanton, PA
New Florence, PA
Murrysville, PA
Monroeville, PA
Ligonier, PA
Ligonier, PA
Latrobe, PA
Latrobe, PA
Latrobe, PA
Jeannette, PA
Jeannette, PA
Hunker, PA
Harrison City, PA Roger L. Steiner
Greensburg, PA
Greensburg, PA
Greensburg, PA
Greensburg, PA
Greensburg, PA
Donegal, PA
Derry, PA
Delmont, PA
Blairsville, PA
Leaders
1889
1954
1911
1803
1947
1950
1955
1903
1906
1822
1796
1955
1889
1791
1865
1962
1879
1908
1890
1902
2007
1848
1956
1772
1957
1784
1792
1853
1850
1827
Year
Orgn
250
44
103
52
296
94
114
478
251
368
925
483
73
726
2,264
572
503
111
399
204
363
552
266
1,491
559
960
334
232
280
381
Bapt
Mbrs
St Paul
06495 *
EN
Trinity
St James Evangelical
06514
Prince of Peace
06529
06515 *
EN
Bethel
06492
EN
St Mark's
EN
EN
EN
EN
EN
EN
EN
EN
EN
EN
06512 *
Holy Trinity
Harrold Zion
06504
06511 *
Good Shepherd
06500
Penn-Zion's
First
06499
St Matthew
Mount Zion
06498
06506
Trinity
06497 *
30750
EN
EN
EN
Salem
Lang
Codes
06496
Congregation Name
Conference: 04 Four
06493 * Hebron
Cong
ID
City, State
CD150 Report
212
43
27
52
255
90
85
344
226
288
806
479
55
549
1,562
399
359
86
273
189
320
433
222
1,175
275
707
236
156
240
266
Conf
Mbrs
60
12
16
15
118
28
22
86
57
68
189
144
18
98
366
82
82
34
70
41
86
109
57
363
136
172
55
35
95
60
Avg
Atnd
Page 4 of 7
Run Date 09/11/15
BULLETIN OF REPORTS
May, 2016
May, 2016
EN
St Luke's
06528
53
St Paul
Grace
Good Shepherd
06481
06482
06646
EN
EN
EN
EN
EN
EN
EN
EN
EN
EN
EN
EN
EN
EN
EN
EN
EN
EN
EN
EN
EN
EN
EN
EN
121 Walnut Hill Rd
71 N Gallatin Ave
Peer & 2nd St
600 Mulberry St
5319 2nd Ave
1570 Clay Pike
4300 Main St
170 Hecla Rd
822 W Main St
911 Howard St
1317 Grand Blvd
329 9th St
342 Lutheran Rd
1041 Government Rd
612 Chestnut St
502 Main St
177 Brush Creek Rd
225 E 10th Ave
641 Zimmer Hill Rd
641 Vermont Ave.
405 Kennedy Ave
126 E Fairview Ave
144 E South St
601 Washington Ave
224 S Market St
307 High St
900 Washington Rd
126 N 4th St
4329 Route 982 South
Location Address
Matthew C. Stabe
Rebecca F. Dittenhafer
Matthew C. Stabe
Warren L. Smith
Dorothy J. Worth
Clifton J. Suehr
Michelle A. Kunkle
Erin E. Evans
Beth L. Siefert
John J. Gropp
Melba T. Dibble
Uniontown, PA
Uniontown, PA
Smithton, PA
Scottdale, PA
James C. Engel
Kevin E. Anderson
Matthew C. Stabe
Daniel F. Clark
North Huntingdon, Janice D. Altenburger
PA
Pittsburgh, PA
Munhall, PA
Mount Pleasant, PA
Mount Pleasant, PA Karen C. Thompson
Monongahela, PA
Monessen, PA
McKeesport, PA
Masontown, PA
Irwin, PA
Irwin, PA
Irwin, PA
Irwin, PA
Homestead, PA
Greenock, PA
Glassport, PA
Duquesne, PA
1894
1885
1904
1890
1899
1952
1904
1793
1971
1869
1903
1891
1773
1946
1872
1874
1773
1874
1858
1910
1963
1884
1871
1901
1948
1926
1949
352
781
133
290
38
469
145
14
393
327
155
54
124
377
73
1,305
187
266
232
38
290
643
183
188
150
210
219
14,513
Conference Totals:
630
Bapt
Mbrs
155
1800
Year
Orgn
1901
Matthew C. Stabe
Connellsville, PA Kerri L. Clark
Connellsville, PA
Charleroi, PA
Carmichaels, PA
Brownsville, PA
Belle Vernon, PA
Youngwood, PA
Youngstown, PA
Leaders
St Peter
St John's
06477
05533
Jacob
06475 *
St Paul's Evangelical
Paintertown
06523 *
06487
Immanuel
06509
Hope Memorial
Holy Trinity
06508
06486
Brush Creek Evangelical
06507
St Paul's
St John Mark
10385
06485
Peace
10375
06593 *
St John
06474
The Lutheran Church Of Our
Saviour
St Paul's
Christ
06569
06510
Trinity
06472
St John's
St John
06471 *
Messiah
Christ
06469
06517 *
St Paul
06467 *
06577
EN
St Andrew
06465 *
EN
EN
Conference: 05 Five
06464
Lynnwood
EN
St James
06527 *
Lang
Codes
Congregation Name
Cong
ID
City, State
CD150 Report
247
725
123
179
38
373
131
14
286
39
155
54
94
240
65
814
187
166
157
38
231
615
90
188
89
98
219
10,929
140
380
Conf
Mbrs
93
136
22
43
18
40
50
38
65
0
58
25
30
67
34
203
55
42
36
28
41
77
28
29
38
25
38
2,917
53
90
Avg
Atnd
Page 5 of 7
Run Date 09/11/15
BULLETIN OF REPORTS
St Andrew Evangelical
St John
St Andrew
Zion
Grace
Ascension
Good Shepherd
Our Redeemer
Resurrection
Bethany Evangelical
Emmanuel
Faith
Good Shepherd
Grace
Holy Trinity
Mount Lebanon United
North Zion
Prince Of Peace
Redeemer
St Mark
St Matthew's
Stewart Avenue
06530
10318
06564
10337
10336
06531
07228
54
06466
10380
10466
10319
06543 *
10471
10310
06546
06548
06551
06552
06565
10473
06559 *
10476
2810 Brownsville Rd
45 E Steuben St
933 Brookline Blvd
1628 Brownsville Rd
400 Old Clairton Rd
5100 Brownsville Rd
975 Washington Rd
1516 Beechview Ave
6810 Hilldale Dr
1700 Bower Hill Rd
80 Bartley Rd
935 Pine Ave
3104 W Liberty Ave
7600 Steubenville Pike
105 Gateshead Dr
618 Russellwood Ave
1290 Silver Ln
1798 Broadhead Rd
1305 State Ave
987 Beaver Grade Rd
601 Washington Ave
218 Alter St
210 N Jefferson Ave
5303 Madison Ave
201 Caldwell Ave
1656 Lincoln Way
Vine & 3rd
Location Address
Larry F. Mort
Bruce P. Nordeen
Pittsburgh, PA
Pittsburgh, PA
Pittsburgh, PA
Pittsburgh, PA
Pittsburgh, PA
Pittsburgh, PA
Pittsburgh, PA
Pittsburgh, PA
Pittsburgh, PA
Pittsburgh, PA
Pittsburgh, PA
Pittsburgh, PA
Pittsburgh, PA
Oakdale, PA
McMurray, PA
Mc Kees Rocks, PA
Patricia A. Mohr-Kelly
Richard C. Mohr-Kelly
Debra D. Thompson
Christina A. Ingold
Allyn K. Itterly
Douglas M. Heagy
Ronald M. Weryha
Melba T. Dibble
Ann E. Schmid
Steven E. Broome
1920
1903
1912
1903
1953
1800
1925
1907
1906
1947
1949
1885
1917
1963
1960
1968
1960
1899
1896
1963
1882
1910
1897
1934
385
123
418
60
533
151
843
128
84
287
408
189
68
87
765
191
186
99
50
499
474
99
59
584
196
8,242
236
174
Bapt
Mbrs
2003
1972
1830
Year
Orgn
Conference Totals:
Beth L. Siefert
John J. Gropp
Melba T. Dibble
Michael L. Reed
Michael E. Ryan
Allen R. Riethmiller
Matthew C. Stabe
Mc Kees Rocks, PA Joseph G. Murdy
Crescent, PA
Coraopolis, PA
Coraopolis, PA
Carnegie, PA
Carnegie, PA
Canonsburg, PA
Bethel Park, PA
Wilmerding, PA
White Oak, PA
West Newton, PA
Leaders
EN
EN
EN
EN
EN
EN
EN
EN
EN
EN
EN
EN
EN
EN
EN
EN
EN
EN
EN
EN
EN
EN
EN
EN
EN
Holy Angels Evangelical
30596 *
EN
St Paul's
Faith
06648
EN
10317
Christ
06489
Lang
Codes
Conference: 06 Six
10292
Bethany
Congregation Name
Cong
ID
City, State
CD150 Report
299
86
375
56
440
125
615
126
79
248
315
133
55
70
543
130
120
85
43
322
358
86
45
584
6,174
159
207
153
Conf
Mbrs
68
50
62
26
67
25
172
18
29
56
126
26
21
27
236
34
69
19
19
113
142
26
26
107
1,517
49
62
47
Avg
Atnd
Page 6 of 7
Run Date 09/11/15
BULLETIN OF REPORTS
May, 2016
May, 2016
Bethlehem
Mount Calvary
St Paul
06483
06484 *
20254 *
Amharic
Anyuak
Arabic
Batak
Burmese
Cambodian
Cantonese
55
[CK]
[CL]
[CZ]
[DA]
[DI]
[EN]
[ES]
EN
EN
EN
EN
EN
Lang
Codes
Finnish
French
German
Haitian
Hmong
Hungarian
Indonesian
775 N Main St
[FI]
[FR]
[GE]
[HA]
[HM]
[HG]
[ID]
2128 E National Pike
21 Church Rd
601 Brownsville Rd
3102 Sherwood Ave
Location Address
Inupiaq
Japanese
Kiswahili
Korean
Lakotah
Lao
Latvian
[IP]
[JA]
[KI]
[KO]
[LK]
[LS]
[LA]
Washington, PA
[MB]
[MA]
[NV]
[NO]
[NU]
[OR]
[PT]
Peter D. Asplin
Melba T. Dibble
Melba T. Dibble
Maban
Mandarin
Navajo
Norwegian
Nuer
Oromo
Paiute
Scenery Hill, PA
Scenery Hill, PA
Pittsburgh, PA
Pittsburgh, PA
Leaders
[TI]
[TM]
[TE]
[TH]
[TG]
[UK]
[UR]
[VI]
48,371
6,213
85
49
396
136
209
Conf
Mbrs
12,911
1,751
23
14
87
36
27
Avg
Atnd
Page 7 of 7
Run Date 09/11/15
Taiwanese
Tamil
Telugu
Thai
Tigrinya
Ukranian
Urdu
Vietnamese
64,385
Synod Totals:
[PR]
[SI]
[SL]
[SP]
[SA]
[SW]
[TA]
7,809
Conference Totals:
Portuguese
Sign
Slovak
Spanish
Swahili
Swedish
Tagalog
94
58
542
136
209
Bapt
Mbrs
1938
1885
1791
1890
1901
Year
Orgn
Cherokee
Creole
Czech
Danish
Dinka
English
Estonian
Trinity Evangelical
20253
[AM]
[AN]
[AB]
[BA]
[BU]
[CA]
[CH]
Trinity
10478
Language Codes:
Congregation Name
Cong
ID
City, State
CD150 Report
BULLETIN OF REPORTS
Congregation Name and City
56
St Michael And All Angels',
Pittsburgh
Trinity, Pittsburgh
Trinity, Pittsburgh
Grace Evangelical, Rochester
St Paul's, Sewickley
Oak Grove, Zelienople
07231 *
10477 *
06453
06456 *
06458
Holy Trinity, Chicora
30017
06436
205,606
320,883
125,127
238,401
62,110
136,140
$2,571,435
99,964
139,800
172,664
64,435
45,485
78,673
23,334
498,568
92,920
126,266
90,195
98,572
0
170,497
33,528
66,433
87,234
75,821
126,023
78,529
27,110
53,497
66,752
250,719
392,157
165,328
293,399
68,797
153,779
$3,592,996
135,127
141,900
446,358
67,086
84,955
129,914
56,540
498,568
110,595
145,522
104,887
163,643
76,864
139,773
0
268,744
36,010
74,988
111,714
75,821
171,729
78,529
42,620
80,924
283,433
1,576,575
2,221,338
5,312,041
4,432,535
604,944
1,715,076
$56,040,444
1,452,179
711,000
6,852,496
1,293,120
1,448,900
2,187,066
766,467
9,005,000
612,261
1,237,586
2,611,047
5,254,445
175
847,292
1,041,000
5,490,323
249,100
1,273,456
1,427,039
1,542,427
2,033,084
1,135,000
371,350
639,000
5,669,436
890,195
Total
Assets
0
422,074
0
0
0
0
$606,219
0
0
80,000
0
71,000
0
0
0
6,532
17,592
0
0
0
349,154
0
33,213
0
810
1,535
0
0
0
0
0
46,383
0
Total
Indebtedness
226,008
280,266
137,000
189,409
64,112
146,152
$3,066,432
105,882
145,547
266,246
57,412
101,637
129,529
57,060
632,647
121,079
107,312
75,310
135,660
52,964
57,209
0
168,461
28,830
91,341
102,637
92,112
115,417
91,874
53,740
56,604
171,672
48,250
Current
Operating
Expenses
26,280
40,000
8,864
26,000
2,450
11,062
$138,588
8,488
5,400
13,588
211
0
1,800
1,636
0
12,773
4,164
264
14,400
1,589
5,000
20,828
11,945
1,564
9,500
1,891
0
11,043
0
800
704
10,282
718
Mission
Support
Grace @ Calvary Evangelical,
Butler
Trinity, Butler
06435 *
06434
Nativity, Allison Park
St Paul Evangelical, Allison
Park
First English, Butler
06566
10261
Conference: 02 Two
06560
Conference Totals
St James, Pittsburgh
06394
06554 *
New Hope Evangelical, Freedom
Redeemer, Monaca
07833 *
06449
First, Pittsburgh
Trinity, Ellwood City
06440
Emanuel, Pittsburgh
St Paul, Ellwood City
06439
06585
Christ's, Beaver Falls
06432
06541 *
Hope, Beaver
06431 *
St John Evangelical, New Castle
Holy Trinity, Beaver
06430
06346
66,945
Rehoboth Evangelical, Baden
06438 *
VanKirk, Monaca
Christ Evangelical, Baden
06428 *
Trinity Evangelical, New
Brighton
Good Shepherd, New Castle
Zion's First, Ambridge
06427 *
06461
Our Savior, Ambridge
10262 *
06452 *
97,617
House Of Prayer, Aliquippa
123,877
Faith, Aliquippa
06426
33,448
Regular
Giving
06425
Conference: 01 One
Cong
ID
Total
Receipts
Form A - Congregation Finances as of December 31, 2014
CD160 Report
15,470
8,993
3,769
14,296
0
8,555
$73,718
5,754
1,105
1,212
0
966
0
0
0
2,574
6,006
2,320
4,040
0
5,600
0
14
1,845
17,190
0
0
3,534
0
2,595
3,081
15,882
0
NonMission
Support
309,458
368,037
149,633
264,293
68,472
182,221
$3,663,273
132,431
152,052
353,712
60,226
102,603
133,614
60,644
632,647
140,671
133,125
79,322
172,600
59,348
112,760
20,828
182,894
37,922
122,600
109,535
92,112
197,809
91,874
57,135
82,179
293,662
48,968
Total
Disbursements
Page 1 of 6
Run Date 09/11/15
BULLETIN OF REPORTS
May, 2016
May, 2016
57
Berkeley Hills, Pittsburgh
Christ, Pittsburgh
Christ, Pittsburgh
Emmanuel, Pittsburgh
Faith, Pittsburgh
First English, Pittsburgh
Good Shepherd, Pittsburgh
St John's, Pittsburgh
St John's Lutheran Church Of
Highland, Pittsburgh
Emmanuel, Prospect
Rider, West Sunbury
St Luke's, West View
Perry Highway, Wexford
Trinity, Wexford
English, Zelienople
Seaman Memorial, Zelienople
St Paul, Zelienople
06539
06540 *
06542
10402 *
06544 *
06536
10460
06555
06451 *
06355
10549
10550 *
06561
06457
06459
10561
Bethel, Ford City
Emmanuel (Heilman), Ford City
St John, Ford City
St Michael, Ford City
United Rockville, Ford City
Trinity, Freeport
06418 *
06398
06388
06386
06343 *
06389
125,319
46,540
41,479
39,414
62,291
56,483
56,328
61,134
133,059
$5,778,858
86,460
51,578
174,095
399,692
249,471
65,532
43,500
42,554
584,346
242,170
223,801
62,438
48,519
111,282
47,503
189,919
309,067
128,433
142,355
26,007
385,901
236,861
143,748
661,891
33,468
Regular
Giving
36,365
168,576
47,290
60,728
57,329
83,926
72,135
74,498
79,985
160,813
$7,226,578
98,765
54,649
218,721
468,283
334,786
88,633
73,456
50,891
820,781
360,479
384,975
66,610
51,314
135,004
57,385
230,122
407,274
135,794
176,934
31,753
496,165
247,929
144,492
730,839
3,234,689
713,047
1,508,206
253,781
2,096,422
952,379
971,415
1,595,328
6,629,931
$65,371,138
2,359,122
115,096
3,292,235
3,276,157
3,407,875
1,769,470
698,051
92,710
4,195,212
3,557,771
1,014,238
880,349
419,338
1,754,900
518,327
2,823,809
3,220,886
265,330
1,672,233
429,024
4,939,474
2,396,977
2,196,181
3,774,390
439,474
Total
Assets
9,615
0
0
53,043
0
0
0
0
0
$4,839,666
0
0
0
117,905
214,651
0
0
0
1,135,378
0
46,218
0
0
0
0
0
1,177,064
0
0
0
551,937
0
0
1,174,439
0
Total
Indebtedness
138,210
49,590
40,182
55,773
61,736
48,616
75,748
58,373
119,420
$5,552,406
99,952
19,442
184,270
327,111
256,757
112,993
45,494
53,717
522,874
276,671
361,147
46,008
59,368
119,202
51,191
181,989
291,726
127,077
121,711
28,043
361,929
212,812
136,464
454,108
57,403
Current
Operating
Expenses
7,529
0
8,506
1,881
13,510
5,794
4,000
3,855
3,500
$537,446
364
11,000
16,625
23,000
16,000
2,785
2,827
0
84,996
11,137
1,500
9,116
1,600
12,000
3,730
68,769
46,000
3,657
16,752
0
45,000
20,700
10,830
12,500
1,902
Mission
Support
112
21,268
8,747
19,212
10,026
1,975
2,928
0
8,058
17,212
16,670
1,886
0
4,518
0
1,236
5,404
5,255
11,536
3,331
0
9,846
2,100
9,120
0
NonMission
Support
5,087
2,900
351
85
4,667
2,374
100
2,003
6,883
172,249
52,490
49,039
64,183
90,219
56,784
89,848
82,899
160,145
$7,373,366
100,428
53,060
209,642
473,038
345,359
117,753
66,598
53,717
812,066
327,249
379,317
79,658
66,221
145,582
54,921
274,935
439,273
135,989
175,661
31,374
467,761
250,208
162,571
746,795
62,076
Total
Disbursements
Page 2 of 6
Run Date 09/11/15
$211,523
Spring Church Evangelical
Lutheran, Apollo
Calvary, Arnold
06414
06384
First, Apollo
06383
Conference: 03 Three
Conference Totals
St John, Mars
06537
06533
10409 *
Bethlehem, Glenshaw
10372
St John (Stone), Harmony
Trinity, Gibsonia
06442
Zion, Harmony
Hope Evangelical, Cranberry
Township
St Peter, Evans City
06441
06445 *
St John, Connoquenessing
10331 *
06448
Cong
ID
Total
Receipts
CD160 Report
BULLETIN OF REPORTS
First Evangelical, Leechburg
Forks-Zion, Leechburg
Hebron, Leechburg
Bethesda, Lower Burrell
Grace, Manorville
Faith, Natrona Heights
First Evangelical, New
Kensington
East Liberty, Pittsburgh
Messiah, Pittsburgh
St Andrew, Pittsburgh
St Mark, Springdale
St Paul, Tarentum
St Paul's Highfield,
Vandergrift
Evangelical, Worthington
06393
06396
06395
06404
06399
06649
06405 *
06589 *
20251
06415 *
06416
06422
58
Trinity, Derry
Mount Zion, Donegal
First, Greensburg
Good Shepherd, Greensburg
Harrold Zion, Greensburg
St Matthias Evangelical,
Greensburg
Zion's Evangelical, Greensburg
Penn-Zion's, Harrison City
St Matthew, Hunker
Holy Trinity, Jeannette
St Mark's, Jeannette
Bethel, Latrobe
Prince of Peace, Latrobe
Trinity, Latrobe
St James Evangelical, Ligonier
St Paul, Ligonier
Good Shepherd, Monroeville
06497 *
06498
06499
06500
06504
06503
30750
06506
06511 *
06512 *
06492
06529
06514
06515 *
06495 *
06575 *
204,508
30,000
133,145
536,925
113,684
154,389
28,575
103,377
60,362
121,545
193,899
112,781
337,802
210,375
213,718
125,000
39,000
183,724
81,196
$1,905,626
65,120
100,138
12,819
90,485
135,554
18,000
59,559
136,905
92,425
54,863
168,806
65,849
133,193
84,279
65,584
Regular
Giving
99,469
221,972
39,000
154,646
778,048
136,584
169,061
35,611
150,869
60,362
150,545
225,920
133,411
360,228
263,939
928,367
125,910
44,500
190,039
119,162
$2,575,039
123,754
196,141
12,819
90,485
195,215
21,000
90,618
164,101
92,425
71,288
201,508
83,250
161,739
165,947
3,346,587
245,000
3,502,065
11,997,427
2,213,114
1,655,797
583,152
2,500
1,000,000
1,130,998
5,449,811
164,423
1,761,391
2,751,176
9,909,458
1,609,069
583,000
763,815
1,202,582
$49,697,398
678,202
1,807,719
51,745
1,883,600
5,541,989
505,000
1,005,100
2,106,499
3,925,783
156,293
1,495,697
3,590,000
2,301,853
5,210,461
1,482,259
Total
Assets
0
0
0
174,407
0
0
0
17,957
0
0
0
0
0
0
102,355
0
3,600
0
0
$181,803
0
0
0
0
103,112
0
15,000
1,033
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
Total
Indebtedness
165,590
30,000
153,100
578,917
116,418
126,444
25,706
144,310
50,226
131,920
195,105
167,449
327,668
202,344
379,617
98,486
41,000
187,221
65,250
$2,061,169
85,112
78,571
13,981
102,969
179,922
21,000
90,758
94,086
69,894
74,895
160,632
122,700
118,109
144,739
56,153
Current
Operating
Expenses
0
2,500
9,600
79,500
15,018
13,500
1,248
0
0
5,000
22,200
12,005
33,559
17,720
80,400
5,173
0
4,676
2,843
$161,507
0
4,998
0
0
23,375
0
650
16,746
0
10,628
12,385
11,500
14,569
12,000
6,081
Mission
Support
Salem, Delmont
06496
06501
Hebron, Blairsville
06493 *
Conference: 04 Four
06423 *
Conference Totals
Christ (Rupp), Kittanning
06397
06583
Cong
ID
Total
Receipts
CD160 Report
27,669
2,500
0
46,169
2,039
2,400
0
800
0
0
4,832
1,998
4,278
18,341
28,502
1,160
200
250
4,566
$74,468
0
10,754
0
0
1,368
0
2,200
0
0
585
8,609
2,278
8,617
9,072
6,535
NonMission
Support
213,683
35,000
192,283
793,771
133,475
165,767
27,631
145,110
50,226
136,920
222,137
181,957
365,505
269,628
648,570
115,697
47,800
208,473
76,389
$2,675,463
125,997
128,891
13,981
102,969
226,065
25,000
99,608
129,451
69,894
89,662
197,987
136,478
203,627
184,135
123,862
Total
Disbursements
Page 3 of 6
Run Date 09/11/15
BULLETIN OF REPORTS
May, 2016
May, 2016
Christ's, Murrysville
Faith, New Florence
St Mark, New Stanton
St John's, North Versailles
Emmanuel Evangelical,
Pittsburgh
Hope, Pittsburgh
Zion, Pittsburgh
Sons of Zebedee, Saltsburg
St Mark, Trafford
Apostles, Verona
Trinity, Verona
St James, Youngstown
St Luke's, Youngwood
06578
30340 *
06521
06571
10470
06588 *
06595
06339
06526 *
06597
06598
06527 *
06528
59
Messiah, Munhall
The Lutheran Church Of Our
Saviour, North Huntingdon
06577
06510
70,302
78,854
16,654
109,196
0
114,350
32,336
25,330
62,000
46,139
215,757
84,742
75,264
73,214
20,585
104,487
90,672
30,348
0
36,659
29,456
55,704
$4,268,636
61,072
67,694
66,639
16,815
15,004
37,637
273,273
66,634
51,032
170,780
64,489
102,154
291,408
Regular
Giving
84,922
89,476
16,654
115,179
0
139,649
96,240
32,301
82,488
57,238
282,196
86,591
89,419
89,152
26,564
145,462
126,555
30,348
0
75,047
33,656
74,904
$6,114,715
61,072
283,623
88,210
16,815
45,882
62,790
362,323
83,564
87,263
224,722
64,489
124,047
321,741
313,877
516,266
531,689
185,800
0
3,397,042
1,450,799
1,340,487
1,244,700
293,193
1,997,000
2,828,017
3,476,000
2,466,725
876,036
576,124
3,427,589
1,425,094
0
355,367
526,555
781,468
$69,570,509
1,650,000
1,368,788
181,265
250,724
1,005,383
452,135
1,717,490
118,355
1,213,723
4,363,382
2,500,000
1,535,000
3,342,899
Total
Assets
0
10,334
42,343
0
0
0
0
0
13,580
1,600
0
7,270
0
0
0
6,492
0
0
0
3,400
0
0
$859,925
0
0
0
0
3,000
0
21,217
0
4,061
49,305
0
190,000
294,023
Total
Indebtedness
116,606
96,596
10,007
87,965
0
112,328
86,579
28,000
85,669
52,610
213,174
60,068
96,592
95,248
22,208
121,662
104,724
34,546
0
54,895
38,412
74,068
$4,452,301
39,043
84,154
78,876
28,527
19,858
48,365
248,053
79,074
75,648
191,084
69,000
61,290
242,558
Current
Operating
Expenses
3,976
600
2,017
11,562
0
11,354
4,800
3,400
3,956
2,500
21,590
600
6,600
3,500
3,186
7,500
0
1,772
0
3,500
2,676
1,807
$409,460
0
4,415
4,974
1,559
1,500
3,211
26,038
6,000
5,280
20,200
0
12,100
19,241
Mission
Support
0
5,647
69
0
820
672
27,155
833
7,153
5,384
0
12,000
11,722
NonMission
Support
0
250
0
2,885
0
1,120
720
3,289
0
1,442
19,111
480
2,359
4,118
70
8,376
11,259
800
0
8,752
0
2,690
120,582
105,920
12,024
102,412
0
139,819
92,099
34,689
89,625
57,752
301,631
66,499
110,051
207,548
25,464
140,946
126,555
44,334
0
95,413
41,088
78,565
$5,859,836
39,043
281,144
83,919
30,086
41,344
52,248
379,069
88,303
93,337
236,726
69,000
116,343
319,252
Total
Disbursements
Page 4 of 6
Run Date 09/11/15
$217,159
St John's, Mount Pleasant
06517 *
St Paul, Monessen
06481
Grace, Monongahela
St John's, McKeesport
06477
Good Shepherd, Mount Pleasant
Jacob, Masontown
06475 *
06646
Paintertown, Irwin
06482
Immanuel, Irwin
Peace, Greenock
10375
06523 *
St John, Glassport
06474
06509
Christ, Duquesne
06569
Holy Trinity, Irwin
Trinity, Connellsville
06472
06508
St John, Connellsville
06471 *
St John Mark, Homestead
Christ, Charleroi
06469
Brush Creek Evangelical, Irwin
St Paul, Carmichaels
06467 *
06507
St Andrew, Brownsville
06465 *
10385
Lynnwood, Belle Vernon
06464
Conference: 05 Five
Conference Totals
Cong
ID
Total
Receipts
CD160 Report
BULLETIN OF REPORTS
Christ, West Newton
Faith, White Oak
Holy Angels Evangelical,
Wilmerding
Conference Totals
06489
06648
30596 *
60
St Andrew Evangelical, Carnegie
St John, Carnegie
St Andrew, Coraopolis
Zion, Coraopolis
Grace, Crescent
Ascension, Mc Kees Rocks
Good Shepherd, Mc Kees Rocks
Our Redeemer, McMurray
Resurrection, Oakdale
Bethany Evangelical, Pittsburgh
Emmanuel, Pittsburgh
Faith, Pittsburgh
Good Shepherd, Pittsburgh
Grace, Pittsburgh
Holy Trinity, Pittsburgh
Mount Lebanon United,
Pittsburgh
North Zion, Pittsburgh
Prince Of Peace, Pittsburgh
Redeemer, Pittsburgh
St Mark, Pittsburgh
St Matthew's, Pittsburgh
Stewart Avenue, Pittsburgh
Trinity, Pittsburgh
06530
10318
06564
10337
10336
06531
07228
06466
10380
10466
10319
06543 *
10471
10310
06546
06548
06552
06565
10473
06559 *
10476
10478
20253
17,904
56,956
57,029
107,808
64,000
136,950
46,946
112,221
46,549
384,005
22,836
35,548
97,506
222,871
47,188
118,344
48,500
426,481
51,290
107,642
35,822
47,798
183,700
219,531
68,931
58,244
88,495
68,248
134,917
175,796
156,252
70,755
128,097
53,243
419,323
29,190
100,789
133,048
275,193
87,139
136,746
49,000
725,002
108,871
126,738
38,426
93,537
203,034
281,284
98,407
67,187
154,269
$2,823,117
$2,173,520
139,134
86,000
197,392
111,920
198,859
266,234
53,733
117,034
63,000
132,195
111,920
161,650
214,569
28,732
74,138
15,267
Regular
Giving
122,080
760,000
1,432,000
537,621
1,443,380
1,594,313
569,000
1,233,900
6,589,183
264,939
591,113
1,643,928
5,071,575
966,253
3,006,572
296,100
3,719,322
1,447,666
498,445
306,045
994,882
410,000
4,679,503
101,923
1,549,767
510,700
$48,794,171
2,851,500
1,941,704
308,000
3,108,805
7,420,004
1,949,746
2,162,692
1,041,892
Total
Assets
0
0
0
1,023
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
292,686
0
13,574
0
391,846
0
0
0
0
163,000
0
0
0
0
$202,420
0
114,240
0
0
0
3,161
0
0
Total
Indebtedness
85,964
65,172
140,117
102,813
145,002
67,113
138,373
55,853
313,677
24,342
71,265
127,094
198,164
61,857
120,810
57,000
363,377
93,734
121,875
35,437
86,837
164,354
210,156
84,677
62,181
144,000
$2,411,387
95,000
112,019
103,738
144,326
213,742
49,718
84,403
16,484
Current
Operating
Expenses
4,000
2,428
4,500
1,315
17,289
5,000
4,125
1,500
38,004
3,457
529
8,019
3,388
4,290
1,045
4,380
36,180
890
6,107
1,000
700
430
3,325
145
2,511
4,704
$196,375
3,000
24,000
11,000
17,000
36,000
4,800
1,189
2,490
Mission
Support
0
3,920
50
25,775
3,365
1,078
11,038
0
NonMission
Support
0
1,491
0
650
3,882
10,241
1,176
2,141
661
5,474
564
671
1,109
13,658
47
13,501
0
26,562
5,052
0
134
0
250
37,374
457
4,312
97,156
67,600
145,267
108,010
172,532
74,416
144,639
59,314
405,847
28,363
72,465
138,230
252,278
66,194
150,067
61,380
689,982
106,018
127,982
36,571
87,537
208,034
250,855
90,967
70,304
148,704
$3,009,234
99,000
171,745
114,788
187,101
253,107
57,396
113,517
19,564
Total
Disbursements
Page 5 of 6
Run Date 09/11/15
$112,947
Trinity Evangelical, Pittsburgh
St Paul's, Canonsburg
10317
06551
Bethany, Bethel Park
10292
Conference: 06 Six
05533
Hope Memorial, Smithton
St Paul's Evangelical,
Uniontown
St Peter, Uniontown
St Paul's, Scottdale
06485
06487
St Paul's, Pittsburgh
06593 *
06486
Cong
ID
Total
Receipts
CD160 Report
BULLETIN OF REPORTS
May, 2016
May, 2016
Bethlehem, Scenery Hill
Mount Calvary, Scenery Hill
St Paul, Washington
06483
06484 *
20254 *
Synod Totals
$19,845,473
$3,147,398
53,266
17,272
133,030
Regular
Giving
$26,706,389
$4,373,944
60,566
26,985
283,407
$332,801,339
$43,327,679
503,040
150,000
2,334,429
Total
Assets
$7,802,162
$1,112,129
0
0
250,000
Total
Indebtedness
$20,899,544
$3,355,849
58,000
20,956
135,649
Current
Operating
Expenses
$1,616,424
$173,048
0
0
13,787
Mission
Support
0
0
7,086
NonMission
Support
$826,308
$26,708,137
$4,126,965
58,000
22,026
186,227
Total
Disbursements
Page 6 of 6
Run Date 09/11/15
$136,493
Conference Totals
Cong
ID
Total
Receipts
CD160 Report
BULLETIN OF REPORTS
61
06512
06423
06405
06431
06451
06484
06523
06589
10331
10477
30596
06515
06540
06554
06593
07231
07833
10402
06428
06544
06465
06495
06497
06517
06541
06559
06456
06475
10262
06438
06471
06588
10409
10550
20254
06343
06415
06418
06427
2004
2007
2007
2007
2007
2007
2007
2007
2007
2007
2008
2008
2008
2008
2008
2008
2008
62
2009
2009
2010
2010
2010
2010
2010
2010
2011
2011
2011
2012
2012
2012
2012
2012
2012
2013
2013
2013
2013
199
166
361
197
94
990
246
94
183
577
223
124
522
123
251
14
232
73
210
112
345
165
954
650
38
49
118
726
196
212
156
100
377
58
280
319
458
382
111
Zion's First
Bethel
St Mark
United Rockville
St Paul
Perry Highway
St John
Hope
St John
Rehoboth Evangelical
Our Savior
Jacob
St Paul's
St Matthew's
Emanuel
St John's
Trinity
St Paul
St Andrew
First English
Christ Evangelical
Faith
New Hope Evangelical
St Michael And All Angels'
St Paul's
St James
Christ
St James Evangelical
Holy Angels Evangelical
Trinity
St John
Messiah
Paintertown
Mount Calvary
Emmanuel
Hope
First Evangelical
Evangelical
St Mark's
Baptized
Members Congregation Name
Congregation Status Key: Org = Organized,
Org
Org
Org
Org
Org
Org
Org
Org
Org
Org
Org
Org
Org
Org
Org
Org
Org
Org
Org
Org
Org
Org
Org
Org
Org
Org
Org
Org
Org
Org
Org
Org
Org
Org
Org
Org
Org
Org
Org
Cong
Cong ID Status
1998
Last
Year
Filed
Beth Ann R. Hawk
Patricia A. Schneck
Beth Ann R. Hawk
Dennis J. Ferguson
Robert F. Zimmerman
Susan C. Schwartz
Jill E. McGregor
Thomas E. Moog
Debra D. Thompson
Jonathan J. Lynn
Jill E. McGregor
David M. Littke
Martin J. Galbraith
Paul D. Poerschke
Michael L. Reed
Keith A. Josephson
Dorothy J. Worth
Freda A. Snyder
Alfred S. Petrill
Pastor
CUD = Congregation Under Development (filing optional)
Ambridge, PA
Ford City, PA
Springdale, PA
Ford City, PA
Washington, PA
Wexford, PA
Mars, PA
Pittsburgh, PA
Connellsville, PA
Baden, PA
Ambridge, PA
Masontown, PA
Sewickley, PA
Pittsburgh, PA
Pittsburgh, PA
Mount Pleasant, PA
Derry, PA
Ligonier, PA
Brownsville, PA
Pittsburgh, PA
Baden, PA
Pittsburgh, PA
Freedom, PA
Pittsburgh, PA
Pittsburgh, PA
Pittsburgh, PA
Pittsburgh, PA
Ligonier, PA
Wilmerding, PA
Pittsburgh, PA
Connoquenessing, PA
Pittsburgh, PA
Irwin, PA
Scenery Hill, PA
Prospect, PA
Beaver, PA
New Kensington, PA
Worthington, PA
Jeannette, PA
City, State
Summary of Congregations That Did Not File 2014 Report Form A
CD950 Report
(724)266-8378
(724)763-2780
(724)274-5313
(724)763-7071
(724)225-0225
(724)935-1226
(724)625-1830
(412)242-4476
(724)628-7920
(724)869-2806
(724)266-1169
(724)583-9040
(412)741-8484
(412)921-1125
(412)766-6633
(724)694-8390
(724)238-8520
(724)785-3970
(412)782-1623
(724)869-7635
(412)364-4044
(724)869-1187
(412)231-2183
(412)521-0844
(412)761-1188
(412)364-4954
(724)238-7242
(412)823-5175
(412)761-4010
(724)789-7421
(412)661-4788
(724)863-1920
(724)945-6776
(724)865-2325
(724)495-6820
(724)335-4004
(724)297-3398
(724)527-0001
Phone
Page 1 of 2
Run Date 09/11/15
BULLETIN OF REPORTS
May, 2016
May, 2016
06435
06445
06452
06467
06493
06511
06526
06527
06543
06575
30340
2013
2013
2013
2013
2013
2013
2013
2013
2013
2013
368
483
408
630
103
399
381
150
164
79
495
Faith
Good Shepherd
Faith
St James
St Mark
Holy Trinity
Hebron
St Paul
Trinity Evangelical
St John (Stone)
Grace @ Calvary Evangelical
Baptized
Members Congregation Name
Congregation Status Key: Org = Organized,
Org
Org
Org
Org
Org
Org
Org
Org
Org
Org
Org
Cong
Cong ID Status
2013
Last
Year
Filed
(724)676-2240
(412)372-2934
(412)835-4590
(724)539-7880
(412)372-4169
(724)523-5478
(724)459-8920
(724)966-7177
(724)846-0544
(724)865-2490
(724)283-0830
Phone
Page 2 of 2
Run Date 09/11/15
Synod Total: 50 Congregation(s)
Ryan D. Kobert
Robert J. Schaefer
Ronald M. Weryha
Tara R. Lynn
Pastor
CUD = Congregation Under Development (filing optional)
New Florence, PA
Monroeville, PA
Pittsburgh, PA
Youngstown, PA
Trafford, PA
Jeannette, PA
Blairsville, PA
Carmichaels, PA
New Brighton, PA
Harmony, PA
Butler, PA
City, State
Summary of Congregations That Did Not File 2014 Report Form A
CD950 Report
BULLETIN OF REPORTS
63
BULLETIN OF REPORTS
CONFERENCE CABINETS
JUNE, 2015 - JUNE, 2018
Conference 1 -Dean:
Secretary:
Cabinet Members:
The Rev. A. Patrice Weirick
The Rev. Martin J. Galbraith
Mr. William Angel
The Rev. Nathaneil Christman
Conference 2 -Dean:
Secretary:
Cabinet Members:
The Rev. Heather S. Lubold
The Rev. Joel A. Benson
The Rev. Scott A. KuechenmeisterHall
Sister Mildred McCracken
Conference 3 -Dean: Secretary:
Cabinet Members:
The Rev. James V. Arter III
(vacancy)
Ms. Linda Schaeffer
The Rev. Philip S. Ramstad
Conference 4 -Dean:
Secretary:
Cabinet Members:
The Rev. Melissa L. Stoller
The Rev. Roger L. Steiner
The Rev. Robert J. Schaefer
Ms. Anna Sarver
Conference 5 -Dean:
Secretary:
Cabinet Members:
The Rev. Erin E. Evans
Mr. Patrick Cloonan
The Rev. Janice D. Altenburger
Melanie Thomas
Conference 6 -Acting Dean:
Secretary:
Cabinet Members:
The Rev. Peter D. Asplin
Ms. Sherry Hazuda
Mr. Gary Kochanowski
The Rev. Melba Dibble
SYNOD STAFF LIAISONS TO THE CONFERENCES
Conferences 1, 3, and 4 - The Rev. Edward F. Sheehan
Conferences 2, 5, and 6 - The Rev. Sarah M. Lee-Faulkner
May, 2016
64
BULLETIN OF REPORTS
SUB-DIVISIONS OF THE SYNOD
CONFERENCE 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
06426
06425
10262
06427
06428
06438
06430
06431
06432
06439
06440
07833
06449
06461
06452
06394
06346
10477
06585
06554
06560
07231
06453
06456
06458
31031
Aliquippa House of Prayer
Aliquippa (Center Township) Faith
Ambridge Our Savior’s
Ambridge Zion’s First
Baden Christ
Baden (Economy Borough) Rehoboth
Beaver Holy Trinity
Beaver Hope
Beaver Falls Christ’s
Ellwood City St. Paul’s
Ellwood City
Trinity
Freedom New Hope
Monaca
Redeemer
Monaca (Center Township) Van Kirk
New Brighton Trinity
New Castle Good Shepherd
New Castle St. John’s
Pittsburgh (Avalon)
Trinity
Pittsburgh (Downtown) First
Pittsburgh (Emsworth) St. James
Pittsburgh (North Side) Trinity
Pittsburgh (Spring Garden) St. Michael and All Angels’
RochesterGrace
Sewickley
St. Paul’s
Zelienople
Oak Grove
Abiding Ministries*
*Synodically Authorized Worshiping Community
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
13
14
15
16
17
18
06566
06434
06435
06436
30017
10331
06441
06442
10372
06533
06448
06445
10409
10261
06542
06536
10402
06539
CONFERENCE 2
Allison Park
Butler
Butler
Butler
Chicora
Connoquenessing
Cranberry Township
Evans City
Gibsonia
Glenshaw
Harmony (Middle Lancaster)
Lancaster Township (Harmony)
Mars
North Park (Allison Park)
Pittsburgh (Etna)
Pittsburgh (Fox Chapel)
Pittsburgh (Laurel Gardens)
Pittsburgh (Millvale)
65
Nativity
First English
Grace @ Calvary
Trinity
Holy Trinity
St. John’s
Hope
St. Peter’s
Trinity
Bethlehem
Zion
St. John’s Stone
St. John
St. Paul
Emmanuel
Good Shepherd
Faith
Christ
May, 2016
BULLETIN OF REPORTS
CONFERENCE 2
9
1
20
21
22
23
24
25
26
27
28
29
30
31
06537
06555
10460
06540
06544
10549
06451
06355
10550
06561
06457
06459
10561
Pittsburgh (North Hills)
Pittsburgh (Perrysville)
Pittsburgh (Ross Township)
Pittsburgh (Sharpsburg)
Pittsburgh (West View)
Prospect
West Sunbury
Wexford
Wexford
Zelienople
Zelienople
Zelienople
Berkeley Hills
St. John’s of Highland
St. John’s
Christ
First English
St. Luke’s
Emmanuel
Rider
Perry Highway
Trinity
English
Seaman Memorial
St. Paul
CONFERENCE 3
1
2
3
4
5
6
7 8 9 10
11
12 13 14 15 16
17
18 19 20
21
22
23
(Continued)
06383
06414
06384
06418
06398
06388
06343
06386
06389
06393
06396
06395
06404
06399
06649
06405
06583
06589
20251
06415
06416
06422
06423
Apollo Apollo Arnold
Ford City
Ford City
Ford City Ford City Ford City (Brick Church)
Freeport
Leechburg
Leechburg Leechburg Lower Burrell Manorville Natrona Heights New Kensington
Pittsburgh (East Liberty)
Pittsburgh (Morningside)
Pittsburgh (Shadyside)
Springdale
Tarentum
Vandergrift Worthington First
Spring Church
Calvary
Bethel
Emmanuel
St. John’s
United Rockville
St. Michael’s
Trinity
First
Forks-Zion
Hebron
Bethesda
Grace
Faith
First
East Liberty
Messiah
St. Andrew
St. Mark’s
St. Paul’s
St. Paul’s Highfield
Evangelical
CONFERENCE 4
1
2
3
4
5
6
May, 2016
06493
06496
06497
06498
06499
06500
Blairsville
Delmont
Derry
Donegal
Greensburg
Greensburg
Hebron
Salem
Trinity
Mt. Zion
First
Good Shepherd
66
BULLETIN OF REPORTS
7
06504
8
06503
9
06501
10
30750
11
06506
12
06511
13
06512
14
06529
15
06514
16
06492
17
06515
18
06495
19
06575
20
06578
21
30340
22
06521
23
06571
24
10470
25
06588
26
06595
27
06339
28
06526
2906598
30
06597
31
06527
32
06528
CONFERENCE 4
(Continued)
Greensburg
Greensburg
Greensburg
Harrison City
Hunker
Jeannette
Jeannette
Latrobe
Latrobe
Latrobe (Stahlstown)
Ligonier
Ligonier (Darlington)
Monroeville
Murrysville
New Florence
New Stanton
North Versailles
Pittsburgh (Eastmont)
Pittsburgh (Forest Hills)
Pittsburgh (Penn Hills)
Saltsburg
Trafford
Verona
Verona (Penn Hills)
Youngstown
Youngwood
Harrold Zion
St. Matthias
Zion’s
Penn-Zion’s
St. Matthew
Holy Trinity
St. Mark’s
Prince of Peace
Trinity
Bethel
St. James
St. Paul’s
Good Shepherd
Christ’s
Faith
St. Mark’s
St. John’s
Emmanuel
Hope
Zion
Sons of Zebedee
St. Mark’s
Trinity
Apostles
St. James
St. Luke’s
CONFERENCE 5
1
06464
2
06465
3
06467
4
06469
5
06471
6
06472
7
06569
8
10375
9
10385
10
06508
11
06509
1206523
13
06507
14
06475
15
06477
16
06648
17
06481
18
06482
19
06646
20
06517
Belle Vernon
Brownsville
Carmichaels
Charleroi
Connellsville
Connellsville
Duquesne
Greenock
Homestead
Irwin
Irwin
Irwin
Irwin (Brush Creek)
Masontown
McKeesport
McKeesport (White Oak)
Monessen
Monongahela
Mount Pleasant
Mount Pleasant
67
Lynnwood
St. Andrew’s
St. Paul’s
Christ
St. John’s
Trinity
Christ
Peace
St. John Mark
Holy Trinity
Immanuel
Paintertown
Brush Creek Evangelical
Jacob’s
St. John’s
Faith
St. Paul’s
Grace
Good Shepherd
St. John’s
May, 2016
BULLETIN OF REPORTS
CONFERENCE 5
21
22
23
24
25
26
27
28
29
06577
06510
06593
06485
06486
06487
05533
06489
30596
(Continued)
Munhall
North Huntingdon
Pittsburgh (Hazelwood)
Scottdale
Smithton
Uniontown
Uniontown
West Newton
Wilmerding
Messiah
Our Savior
St. Paul’s
St. Paul’s
Hope Memorial
St. Paul’s
St. Peter
Christ
Holy Angels
CONFERENCE 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
10292
10317
06530
10318
06564
10337
10336
06531
07228
06466
10380
06551
06546
10471
10473
06565
10476
10319
06559
10466
06548
20253
06552
10478
10310
06543
06483
06484
20254
31131
Bethel Park
Canonsburg
Carnegie
Carnegie
Coraopolis
Coraopolis
Crescent
McKees Rocks
McKees Rocks
McMurray
Oakdale
Pittsburgh (Baldwin Boro)
Pittsburgh (Beechview)
Pittsburgh (Bower Hill)
Pittsburgh (Brookline)
Pittsburgh (Carrick)
Pittsburgh (Castle Shannon)
Pittsburgh (Crafton)
Pittsburgh (Dormont)
Pittsburgh (Mt.Lebanon)
Pittsburgh (Mt. Oliver)
Pittsburgh (Pleasant Hills)
Pittsburgh (Sheraden)
Pittsburgh (South Park)
Pittsburgh (Upper St. Clair)
Scenery Hill
Scenery Hill
Washington
Community Three For One*
*Synodically Authorized Worshiping Community
May, 2016
68
Bethany
St. Paul’s
St. Andrew
St. John
St. Andrew
Zion
Grace
Ascension
Good Shepherd
Our Redeemer
Resurrection
North Zion
Holy Trinity
Good Shepherd
St. Mark’s
Redeemer
Stewart Avenue
Emmanuel
St. Matthew’s
Bethany
Mt. Lebanon United
Trinity
Prince of Peace
Trinity
Grace
Faith
Bethlehem
Mt. Calvary
St. Paul’s
BULLETIN OF REPORTS
SOUTHWESTERN PENNSYLVANIA SYNOD MAP
69
SOUTHWESTERN PENNSYLVANIA SYNOD CONGREGATIONS - List current as of May 3, 2016
May, 2016
70
*one year trial with PLUM
CITY/TOWN
CHURCH MAILING ADDRESS
PASTORS
PHONE
Aliquippa
House of Prayer
2100 Irwin Street
15001
Michael J. Sourwine
724-375-2033
Aliquippa (Center Township)
Faith
100 Center Grange Road
15001
A. Patrice Weirick
724-775-7030
Allison Park
Nativity
4517 Mt. Royal Boulevard
15101
Scott A. KuechenmeisterHall
412-487-1071
Allison Park (North Park)
St. Paul’s
10301 Walters Road
15101
Frederick P. Schenker (Retired)
724-935-2839
Ambridge
Our Savior’s
2147 Ridge Road Extension
15003
Jill E. McGregor
724-266-1169
Ambridge
Zion’s First
798 Park Road 15003
Cletus W. Fahrion (Retired)
724-266-8378
(location: Eighth Street and Park Road)
Apollo
First
P.O. Box 275
15613
Philip S. Ramstad (Retired)
724-478-1283
(location: 214 North Pennsylvania Avenue)
Apollo
Spring Church
3623 Lutheran Church Road
15613
John K. Ludwig (contracted) (Northwestern PA Synod) 724-478-1528
Arnold
Calvary
P.O. Box 457 (location: 1721 Victoria Avenue) 15068
Marsha A. Adams
724-335-0101
Baden
Christ
399 State Street
15005
Jill E. McGregor
724-869-7635
Baden (Economy Boro)
Rehoboth
2800 Conway-Wallrose Road
15005 Susan A. G. Irons
724-869-2806
Beaver
Holy Trinity
1098 Third Street
15009
Freda A. Snyder
724-774-1413
Beaver (Brighton Township)
Hope
45 Maple Drive
15009
Freda A. Snyder
724-495-6820
Beaver Falls
Christ’s
409 11th Street
15010
Kimberly A. Rapczak
724-846-2899
Belle Vernon
Lynnwood
900 Washington Road
15012
Matthew C. Stabe; Timothy M. Dawes724-929-4760
Contracted: Allen R. Riethmiller
Bethel Park
Bethany
5303 Madison Avenue
15102
William B. Henry, Jr. (OLFC)
412-835-9221
Blairsville
Hebron
125 North Liberty Street
15717
724-459-8920
Brownsville
St. Andrew’s
307 High Street
15417
724-785-3970
Butler
First English
241 North Main Street
16001
Kimberly M. van Driel
724-283-2378
Butler
Grace @ Calvary
123 East Diamond Street
16001
Tara R. Lynn
724-283-0830
Butler
Trinity
120 Sunset Drive
16001
Joel A. Benson
724-287-1977
Canonsburg
*St. Paul’s
210 North Jefferson Avenue
15317
John J. Gropp; Beth L. Siefert;
724-745-5962
Melba T. Dibble, Paul F. Koch (Retired)
Carmichaels
St. Paul’s
224 South Market Street
15320
724-966-7177
Carnegie
St. Andrew
Pittsburgh Lutheran United Ministries
15106
Beth L. Siefert; John J. Gropp;
412-279-3615
218 Alter Street
Melba T. Dibble; Paul F. Koch (Retired)
Carnegie
St. John
601 Washington Avenue
15106
Bruce P. Nordeen; Scott M. Olbert (Retired)
412-279-2952
Charleroi
Christ
15022 724-483-4908
Chicora
Holy Trinity
2217 Chicora Road
16025 Joseph J. Boomhower
724-445-3574
Connellsville
St. John’s
P. O. Box 487
15425
Daniel F. Clark (contracted)
724-628-7184
(location: 144 East South Street)
Connellsville
Trinity
126 East Fairview Avenue
15425
Kerri L. Clark
724-628-7920
Connoquenessing
St. John’s
P.O. Box 136, 100 Main Street
16027
J. Gary Brown (Retired)
724-789-7421
Coraopolis
St. Andrew
987 Beaver Grade Road
15108
Larry F. Mort
412-264-4551
Coraopolis
Zion
1305 State Avenue
15108 John J. Gropp; Beth L. Siefert;
412-264-6420
Cranberry Township
Hope
8070 Rowan Road 16066
Ronald A. Brown; Christopher J. Suehr
724-776-3141
Crescent
Grace
1798 Brodhead Road
15046
724-457-7470
Delmont
Salem
301 East Pittsburgh Street 15626
Kara J. Propst
724-468-4189
Derry
Trinity
P. O. Box 324 15627
John D. Tollner (Retired)
724-694-8390
(location: 101 West Fourth Avenue)
Donegal
Mt. Zion
P.O. Box 144 (location: 194 Main Street)
15628
Keith A. Deckinger
724-593-7600
Duquesne
Christ
15110 John J. Gropp; Beth L. Siefert;
412-466-7773
405 Kennedy Avenue
Ellwood City
St. Paul’s
P.O. Box 695 (location: 307 Wayne Avenue)
16117
724-752-9766
Ellwood City
Trinity
207 Spring Avenue
16117
Margaret A. Suhr-Barkley
724-752-3050
Evans City
St. Peter’s
202 Van Buren Street
16033
Brandon A. Johns
724-538-5810
Ford City Bethel
Crooked Creek Cooperative Lutheran Ministries16226 Larry E. Kemp (Intentional Interim)
724-763-2780
2264 Garretts Run Road Jack A. Delk (contracted)
(location: 119 Bethel Church Road)
BULLETIN OF REPORTS
854 Garretts Run Road
16226 Larry E. Kemp (Intentional Interim)
Grace-St. John’s Lutheran Parish
16226 Jack A. Delk
1038 Fourth Avenue
(mail: P. O. Box 122; Manorville, PA 16238)
Crooked Creek Cooperative Lutheran Ministries16226 Larry E. Kemp (Intentional Interim)
2264 Garretts Run Road Jack A. Delk (contracted)
(location: 720 State Route 2020)
Crooked Creek Cooperative Lutheran Ministries16226
Larry E. Kemp (Intentional Interim)
2264 Garretts Run Road
Jack A. Delk (contracted)
200 Second Avenue
15042
Martin J. Galbraith
323 Fifth Street 16229 Jocelyn Johnston
3832 Gibsonia Road
15044
Anthony J. Schneck
1719 Mt. Royal Boulevard 15116
Daniel P. Smail
P.O. Box 41 (location: 641 Zimmer Hill Drive) 15047
Erin E. Evans
246 South Main Street
15601
Jerry L. Nuernberger
501 Fairfield Drive
15601
Frank S. Podolinski, Jr.
671 Baltzer Meyer Pike
15601
John M. Smaligo
100 Chapel View Drive
15601
Paul M. Gruesu
140 South Pennsylvania Avenue
15601
Brian B. Chaffee
557 Perry Highway
16037
Barbara E. Love
P.O. Box 351 (location: 3417 Route 130)
15636 Roger L. Steiner
225 East 10th Avenue
15120
Jack E. Hernstrom (Retired)
Good News Lutheran Ministry;
15639 Annette M. Woodman-Howe
P.O. Box 221, Hunker, PA 15639
(location: 407 Constitution Avenue)
502 Main Street
15642
Clifton J. Suehr
612 Chestnut Street
15642
George W. Mendis (Retired)
c/o Ralph Hamilton, Treasurer;
15642
Dorothy J. Worth
1041 Government Road (location:
1001 Government Road at Paintertown Road)
177 Brush Creek Road
15642
211 Gaskill Avenue
15644
P.O. Box 43
15644
Theodore Erickson
(location: 216 North First Street)
(U.C.C. Pastor)
c/o Kristopher Kniess; 184 Yellowcreek Rd.;
16037
Robert P. Coval (Anglican Priest)
Harmony, PA 16037;
(location: 235 Stone Church Road)
1325 Mission Road
15650
William A. Schaefer
647 Bethel Church Road
15650
James N. West (Retired)
331 Weldon Street
15650
Jeffrey L. Schock; David H. Clement (Retired)
358 Main Street
15656
James V. Arter III
253 Forks Church Road
15656
Terri L. Landers
201 Main Street 15656
300 West Main Street
15658 Paul D. Poerschke
1407 Darlington Road
15658
John D. Tollner (Retired)
3084 Leechburg Road
15068
Elaine M. Hower
PASTORS
SOUTHWESTERN PENNSYLVANIA SYNOD CONGREGATIONS
Ford City
Emmanuel
Ford City
St. John’s
Ford City
United Rockville
Ford City (Brick Church)
St. Michael’s
Freedom (Economy Boro)
New Hope
Freeport
Trinity
Gibsonia Trinity Glenshaw
Bethlehem
Greenock
Peace
Greensburg
First
Greensburg Good Shepherd
Greensburg
Harrold Zion
Greensburg
St. Matthias
Greensburg
Zion’s
Zion
Harrison City
Penn-Zion’s
Homestead
St. John Mark
Hunker
St. Matthew
Irwin
Holy Trinity
Irwin
Immanuel
Irwin
Paintertown
Irwin (Brush Creek)
Brush Creek
Jeannette
Holy Trinity
Jeannette
St. Mark’s
St. John’s Stone
Latrobe
Prince of Peace
Bethel
Latrobe
Trinity
Leechburg
First
Leechburg
Forks-Zion
Leechburg
Hebron
Ligonier
St. James
Ligonier (Darlington)
St. Paul’s
Lower Burrell
Bethesda
CITY/TOWN
71
724-537-7273
724-593-2483
724-537-4450
724-845-7518
724-845-6627
724-842-0801
724-238-7242
724-238-8520
724-335-0559
724-865-2490
724-863-2040
724-523-5478
724-527-0001
724-863-7350
724-863-7009
724-863-1920
724-869-1187
724-295-9557
724-443-8110
412-486-0550
412-751-8073
724-834-1457
724-834-1940
724-837-7327
724-834-2457
724-834-9060
724-452-8886
724-744-3151
412-461-1609
724-925-9124
724-842-8921
724-763-7071
724-545-2243
724-763-9968
PHONE
BULLETIN OF REPORTS
May, 2016
PASTORS
PHONE
May, 2016
72
*one year trial with PLUM
**one year trial with MMVLP
Manorville
Grace
16238
Jack A. Delk
724-763-9968
P.O. Box 122 (location: Water Street)
Mars
St. John
Box 411 (location: 420 Beaver Street)
16046 Robert F. Zimmerman
724-625-1830
Masontown
Jacob’s
P.O. Box 688 (location: Lutheran Church Road) 15461
724-583-9040
McKeesport
St. John’s
329 Ninth Avenue
15132 Warren L. Smith
412-673-5647
McKeesport (White Oak)
Faith
1656 Lincoln Way
15131
Michael E. Ryan
412-673-2296
McKees Rocks
Ascension
1290 Silver Lane
15136
Joseph G. Murdy
412-859-3711
McKees Rocks
Good Shepherd
618 Russellwood Avenue
15136 Patricia A. Bonds (contracted) (OLFC)
412-771-1993
McMurray
Our Redeemer
105 Gateshead Drive
15317 Ann E. Schmid; Steven E. Broome
724-941-7467
Monaca
Redeemer
15061
Robert A. Strobel (Retired)
724-774-8960
Monaca (Center Township)
Van Kirk
106 Van Kirk Road
15061
A. Patrice Weirick
724-775-7030
Monessen
St. Paul’s
1317 Grand Boulevard
15062 Matthew C. Stabe; Timothy M. Dawes
724-684-6565
Allen R. Riethmiller (contracted)
Monongahela
**Grace
909 Howard Street
15063
Matthew C. Stabe; Timothy M. Dawes
724-258-4505
Monroeville Good Shepherd 4503 Old William Penn Highway
15146
Robert J. Schaefer
412-372-2934
Mount Pleasant
Good Shepherd
822 West Main Street
15666 Karen C. Thompson
724-547-5941
Mount Pleasant
St. John’s
c/o Kathy Lowstetter, Treasurer;
15666
Robert Kruel (Licensed U.C.C. Minister)
724-837-1720
250 Iowa Street; Greensburg, PA 15601
(Treasurer’s phone)
(location: 170 Hecla Road, Mount Pleasant)
Munhall
*Messiah
15120
412-461-6958
4300 Main Street
Murrysville
Christ’s
5330 Logans Ferry Road
15668
Wayne G. Gillespie
412-795-1212
Natrona Heights
Faith
1500 Broadview Boulevard
15065
724-224-5777
New Brighton
Trinity
P.O. Box 232 (location: 1001 10th Avenue)
15066
Frank A. Kantz (Retired)
724-846-0544
New Castle
Good Shepherd
2323 Old Butler Road
16101
724-654-8246
New Castle
St. John’s
2601 Highland Avenue
16105
David A. Snyder
724-654-2642
New Florence
Faith
6810 Route 22 East
15944
Ryan D. Kobert
724-676-2240
New Kensington
First
221 Ridge Avenue
15068 Alfred S. Petrill, Jr.
724-335-4004
New Stanton
St. Mark’s
Good News Lutheran Ministry
15672 Annette M. Woodman-Howe
724-925-9216
P.O. Box 236 (location: 126 West
Pennsylvania Avenue)
North Huntingdon
Our Saviour
1570 Clay Pike
15642
724-863-2591
North Versailles
St. John’s
715 Lincoln Highway
15137
Richard W. Krug
412-824-0277
Oakdale
*Resurrection
7600 Steubenville Pike
15071
412-788-4513
Pittsburgh (Avalon)
Trinity
638 California Avenue
15202
412-761-4010
Pittsburgh (Baldwin Boro)
North Zion
5100 Brownsville Road
15236
412-655-3343
Holy Trinity
1516 Beechview Avenue
15216
412-561-1726
Good Shepherd
1700 Bower Hill Road
15243
412-276-2446
Pittsburgh (Brookline)
St. Mark’s
933 Brookline Boulevard
15226
Christina A. Hough
412-531-9575
Redeemer
15210
412-881-4404
Stewart Avenue
15227
412-881-0171
Pittsburgh (Castle Shannon)
Emmanuel
935 Pine Avenue
15234
Richard L. Merkner (Retired)
412-531-1080
Pittsburgh (Crafton)
St. Matthew’s
45 East Steuben Street
15205
Patricia A. Mohr-Kelly (OLFC)
412-921-1125
Bethany
15216
John J. Gropp; Beth L. Siefert
412-531-9363
3104 West Liberty Avenue
Pittsburgh (Downtown)
First
615 Grant Street
15219
Brian A. Evans; Jennifer R. P. McCurry
412-471-8125
CITY/TOWN
BULLETIN OF REPORTS
PASTORS
PHONE
73
May, 2016
*Synod office is contact
East Liberty
15206
412-362-1712
5707 Penn Avenue
Pittsburgh (Eastmont)
Emmanuel
1229 Jefferson Heights Road
15235
Linda Orsen Theophilus
412-824-4525
Pittsburgh (Emsworth)
St. James
28 Pittsburgh Street
15202 412-761-1188
Pittsburgh (Etna)
Emmanuel
66 Grant Avenue
15223
Jonathan J. (J.J.) Lynn
412-781-2764
Hope
353 Ridge Avenue
15221
Susan C. Schwartz 412-242-4476
Pittsburgh (Fox Chapel)
Good Shepherd
1610 Powers Run Road
15238
Donald B. Green (Retired)
412-963-9494
Pittsburgh (Hazelwood)
St. Paul’s
5319 Second Avenue
15207
412-521-0844
Pittsburgh (Laurel Gardens)
Faith
161 Sixth Avenue
15229
David M. Littke
412-364-4044
Christ
917 Evergreen Avenue
15209
Paul L. Lubold
412-821-4300
Pittsburgh (Morningside)
Messiah
1736 Jancey Street
15206 Keith A. Josephson
412-661-4788
Pittsburgh (Mt. Lebanon)
Mt. Lebanon United
975 Washington Road
15228
Douglas M. Heagy
412-563-0300
Trinity
15210
412-381-9215
Berkeley Hills
517 Sangree Road
15237
Scott A. Bryte; Heather S. Lubold
412-486-4010
311 Cumberland Road
15237
William B. Diehm; Kari B. Smail
412-364-1606
Pittsburgh (North Side)
Trinity
616 West North Avenue
15212
John M. Cawkins
412-321-1682
Zion
11609 Frankstown Road
15235
Melissa L. Stoller
412-242-2626
Pittsburgh (Perrysville)
St. John’s
920 Perry Highway
15229
Michael H. Robinson
412-364-6626
Pittsburgh (Pleasant Hills)
Prince of Peace
400 Old Clairton Road
15236
Allyn K. Itterly
412-655-2168
Pittsburgh (Ross Township)
Christ
157 Peony Avenue
15229
David M. Littke
412-364-4954
St. Andrew
304 Morewood Avenue
15213
Ross I. Carmichael
412-682-3342
Pittsburgh (Sharpsburg)
First English
15215
Jonathan J. (J.J.) Lynn
412-782-1623
Trinity
15204
Beth L. Siefert; John J. Gropp
412-331-0600
3102 Sherwood Avenue
Grace
6810 Hilldale Drive
15236
Lota Jones (United Methodist Pastor - contracted)
412-655-3100
Pittsburgh (Spring Garden)
St. Michael and All Angels 1308 Spring Garden Avenue
15212
412-231-2183
Pittsburgh (Upper St. Clair)
Faith
80 Bartley Road
15241
Ronald M. Weryha
412-835-4590
Pittsburgh (West View)
St. Luke’s
305 Center Avenue
15229
412-931-1674
Prospect
Emmanuel
P.O. Box 386 (location: 143 Church Street) 16052
J. Gary Brown (Retired)
724-865-2325
Rochester
Grace
393 Adams Street
15074
Gregory S. Clagg
724-774-3792
Saltsburg
Sons of Zebedee
422 Salt Street
15681
John K. Ludwig (contracted) (Northwestern PA Synod) 724-639-3411
Scenery Hill
Bethlehem
21 Church Road
15360
Peter D. Asplin
724-945-5198
Scenery Hill
Mt. Calvary
2128 East National Pike Road
15360
724-945-6776
Scottdale
St. Paul’s
600 Mulberry Street
15683
Daniel F. Clark
724-887-6526
Sewickley
St. Paul’s
616 Washington Street
15143
Thomas E. Moog
412-741-8484
Smithton
Hope Memorial
P.O. Box 771 (location: Peer Street) 15479
Matthew C. Stabe; Timothy M. Dawes
724-872-8050
Springdale
St. Mark’s
600 Pittsburgh Street
15144
Patricia A. Schneck
724-274-5313
Tarentum
St. Paul’s
300 East Eighth Street
15084
412-367-8222*
Trafford
St. Mark’s
324 Fairmont Avenue
15085
412-372-4169
Uniontown
St. Paul’s
71 North Gallatin Avenue
15401
Kevin E. Anderson
724-437-9000
Uniontown
St. Peter
121 Walnut Hill Road
15401
James C. Engel
724-439-4730
Vandergrift
St. Paul’s Highfield
1595 Dime Road
15690
Richard P. Grance (Retired)
724-567-7462
Verona
Trinity
701 Allegheny River Boulevard
15147
Patricia A. Schneck (contracted)
412-828-7799
Verona (Penn Hills)
Apostles
447 Hamil Road
15147
412-793-4899
Washington
St. Paul’s
15301
West Newton
Christ
P.O. Box 251 (location: Vine and 3rd Streets) 15089
Allen R. Riethmiller, Matthew C. Stabe; Timothy M. Dawes724-872-7177
West Sunbury
Rider
189 Rider Church Road
16061
Cynthia K. Baxter
724-282-4578
CITY/TOWN
BULLETIN OF REPORTS
May, 2016
CITY/TOWN
CONGREGATION
Non-geographic
Abiding Ministries
Pittsburgh (South Hills)
Community Three For One
MAILING ADDRESS
c/o Christine A. Rotella
327 Maplewood Drive; McMurray, PA 15317
c/o St. Mark’s Lutheran Church;
933 Brookline Boulevard; Pittsburgh, PA 15226
PHONE
724-942-0609
724-935-1226
724-935-2746
412-855-1991
724-297-3398
724-539-7880
724-925-3321
724-452-8110
724-774-6410
724-452-3594
724-452-8832
PHONE
Christina A. Hough
412-531-9575
Marsha Sebastian (Brookline Blvd. United Presbyterian Church)
LEADERSHIP
Christine A. Rotella
SYNODICALLY AUTHORIZED WORSHIPING COMMUNITIES (SAWC)
11403 Perry Highway
15090
Dennis J. Ferguson
2500 Brandt School Road
15090
Jennifer L. Fuhr
201 Caldwell Street
15148
Michael L. Reed
P.O. Drawer 10 (location: 136 West Main Street)16262
P.O. Box 356 (location: South Latrobe Street) 15696
Sarah R. Rossing
126 North Fourth Street
15697
Peter E. Nordby
200 East Grandview Avenue
16063
Margarethe Galbraith-Cordes (eff. 5/8/16)
432 Harkins Mill Road
16063
Nathaneil C. Christman
401 South Main Street
16063
Wilfred K. Goetze
16063
Beverly J. Banyay (Retired)
Perry Highway
Trinity
Holy Angels
Evangelical
St. James
St. Luke’s
English
Oak Grove
Seaman Memorial
St. Paul
Wexford
Wexford
Wilmerding
Worthington
Youngstown
Youngwood
Zelienople
Zelienople
Zelienople
Zelienople
PASTORS
CITY/TOWN
BULLETIN OF REPORTS
74
BULLETIN OF REPORTS
PASTORS OF THE SOUTHWESTERN PENNSYLVANIA SYNOD
LISTING AS OF MAY 3, 2016
Please call party before sending fax if an asterisk (*) follows a fax number.
(Name indicates spouse) [Name indicates legally recognized partner]
Name
Yr. Ordained
Conf.
Location
ACKERMAN, ARTHUR B., JR. (Lois)
1203 Summit Street; McKeesport, PA 15131-1714
(H) 412-664-9135
1959
5
Retired
ADAMS, MARSHA A.
(Pr. Keith A. Deckinger)
P. O. Box 144; Donegal, PA 15628
(C) 724-335-0101 (H) 724-593-3210
E-Mail: [email protected]
1999
3
Arnold
ALLEN, AMY LYNN (Pr. J. Erik)
2007
3
5425 Kings Hill Drive; Cumming, GA 30040-9294
(cell) 678-630-6416
On Leave from Call
for Study
ALTENBURGER, JANICE D., M.Ed., Ph.D.
179 Brush Creek Road; Irwin, PA 15642
(H) 724-515-7298
On Leave from Call
2004
5
ANDERSON, KEVIN E., S.T.M. (Rhonda)
1983
5
71 North Gallatin Avenue; Uniontown, PA 15401
(C) 724-437-9000 (cell) 724-994-7548
Uniontown
ARMSTRONG, JOAN S.
1 Darby Heath; Fairfield, OH 45014
(H) 513-330-6633
2009
Continuing Disability
ARTER, JAMES V., III (Pr. Elizabeth)
First Lutheran Church
358 Main Street; Leechburg, PA 15656
(C) 724-845-7518 (H) 724-212-7240
20113 Leechburg
3
ASPLIN, PETER D. (Kristen)
2007
6
Scenery Hill
Bethlehem Lutheran Church
21 Church Road; Scenery Hill, PA 15360-1102
(C) 724-945-5198 (H) 724-503-4595
AUPKE, JOHN C., CH. (Maj.) (Gabriele)
PSC10, Box 1178; APO AE 09142
(cell) 270-307-0909
1975
BANDLE, HORST H. (Janet)
1063 Duncan Lane; Pittsburgh, PA 15236-1669
(H) 412-882-1230
19716 Retired
BANYAY, BEVERLY J., M.S.W., M.Ed.
2000 May Drive, Apt. 216; Zelienople, PA 16063
(H) 724-453-5411
20012 Retired
75
Congregation
Calvary
St. Paul’s
First
Bethlehem
Retired
May, 2016
BULLETIN OF REPORTS
Name
Yr. Ordained
Conf.
BATTLE, KAREN L.
1986
4
813 Smokey Wood Drive; Pittsburgh, PA 15218
(cell) 412-897-3926
Location
Mission Developer
Pittsburgh Presbytery
Pittsburgh
BAUGHMAN, BARRY J., LCDR, CHC, USN
1988
(Kimberly)
943 Irish Meetinghouse Road; Perkasie, PA 18944
(cell) 910-526-2321
Chaplain
VA New Jersey Health Care System
BAXTER, CYNTHIA K.
111 Margate Drive; Butler, PA 16001
(C) 724-282-4578 (cell) 410-596-2392
West Sunbury
2015
2
Congregation
Rider
BECKER, RUTH BOSCH (John)
19811 Retired
Sherwood Oaks
340 Norman Drive; Cranberry Township, PA 16066-4237
(H) 724-776-8340
BENNETT, BRIAN O. (Mary Lynne)
2003
2
Lutheran Campus Ministry in Greater Pittsburgh
4515 Forbes Avenue; Pittsburgh, PA 15213
(O) 412-682-6886 (H/cell) 304-657-4438
BENSON, JOEL A. (Mindy)
Trinity Lutheran Church
120 Sunset Drive; Butler, PA 16001-1332
(C) 724-287-1977 (H) 724-444-5727
Campus Pastor/Director
Lutheran Campus Ministry in
Greater Pittsburgh
19912 Butler
Trinity
BISH, KIRK W.
19672 Retired
681 Wyngold Drive; Pittsburgh, PA 15237-4207
(H) 412-364-1746
BONDS, PATRICIA A.
1989
1
3175 Ashlyn Street; Pittsburgh, PA 15204
(H) 412-331-3852
On Leave from Call
Under contract:
McKees Rocks
BOOMHOWER, JOSEPH J.
Holy Trinity Lutheran Church
2217 Chicora Road; Chicora, PA 16025
(C) 724-445-3574 (H) 724-397-2650
1986
Chicora
BOWSER, MONT O. (Eileen)
4574 Ridgeview Drive; Greensburg, PA 15601-6344
(H) 724-832-1278
19514 Retired
BREWER, WILLIAM W., JR. (Joy)
219 South Pittsburgh Street; Zelienople, PA 16063
(H) 724-473-0800
19702 Retired
BRINGMAN, MARK A.
2670 Collingwood Street, S.E.
Albany, OR 97322
(cell) 724-766-6686
2006
May, 2016
2
2
76
On Leave from Call
Good Shepherd
Holy Trinity
BULLETIN OF REPORTS
Name
Yr. Ordained
Conf.
BROOME, STEVEN E. (Pr. Ann E. Schmid)
1985
6
Our Redeemer Lutheran Church
105 Gateshead Drive; McMurray, PA 15317-3101
(C) 724-941-7467 (cell) 724-554-6015; Fax: 724-941-3262
Location
Associate Pastor
McMurray
Congregation
Our Redeemer
BROWN, J. GARY
19682 Retired
280 Newbury Drive; Monroeville, PA 15146-1847
(cell) 724-679-0115
BROWN, RONALD A. (Brenda)
1999
2
Hope Lutheran Church
8070 Rowan Road; Cranberry Township, PA 16066-3614
(C) 724-776-3141 (H) 724-772-1194; Fax: 724-779-8914
Senior Pastor
Cranberry Township
BRUNK, ROBERT K. (Lori)
2345 Berkshire Drive; Pittsburgh, PA 15241-2445
(H) 412-831-0727
E-mail: [email protected]
19546 Retired
BRUNKHORST, BRUCE H. (Katharine)
7406 Trevanion Avenue; Pittsburgh, PA 15218
(H) 412-371-6724
19725 Retired
BRYTE, SCOTT A. (Kathleen)
1989
2
Berkeley Hills Lutheran Church
517 Sangree Road; Pittsburgh, PA 15237-3949
(C) 412-486-4010 (cell) 412-726-5735; Fax: 412-486-4729
Pittsburgh
(North Hills)
BYRUM, DEBORAH M.
1992
3
1266 Duffield Street; Pittsburgh, PA 15206-1319
(O) 412-271-2273 (H) 412-363-2545
Fax: 412-436-1044 (Attn: Pr. Byrum) E-Mail: [email protected]
Spiritual Care Coordinator
Hospice Preferred Choice, Inc.
CAMBERG, LAWRENCE R. (Susan)
203 Laurel Oak Drive; Valencia, PA 16059
(H) 724-687-0239
19633 Retired
CARLSSON, ANDREW E.
1500 Graham Way, Apt. 303; Mars, PA 16046
(H) 724-625-4137 (cell) 814-590-3908
19602 Retired
CARMICHAEL, ROSS I.
2005
3
St. Andrew Lutheran Church
304 Morewood Avenue; Pittsburgh, PA 15213
(O) 412-682-3342 (cell) 773-428-0310
Pittsburgh
(Shadyside)
Hope
Berkeley Hills
St. Andrew
CAWKINS, JOHN M. (Jaye)
19881 Pittsburgh
(North Side)
616 West North Avenue; Pittsburgh, PA 15212-4538
(C) 412-321-1682 (H) 412-301-0151
Trinity
CHAFFEE, BRIAN B. (Lisa)
20104 Greensburg
Zion’s Evangelical Lutheran Church
140 South Pennsylvania Avenue; Greensburg, PA 15601
(C) 724-834-9060
Zion’s
77
May, 2016
BULLETIN OF REPORTS
Name
Yr. Ordained
Conf.
Location
CHRISTMAN, NATHANEIL C. (Tricia)
2012
1
Zelienople
Oak Grove Lutheran Church
434 Harkins Mill Road; Zelienople, PA 16063
(C) 724-774-6410 (cell) 651-328-1072
CLAGG, GREGORY S. (Kathleen)
Grace Lutheran Church
393 Adams Street; Rochester, PA 15074-2128
(C) 724-774-3792 (H) 724-709-8222
19951 Rochester
CLARK, DANIEL F. (Pastor Kerri)
20145
St. Paul’s Lutheran Church
600 Mulberry Street; Scottdale, PA 15683
(C) 724-887-6526 (cell) 724-961-3125
Under call:
Scottdale
Under contract:
Connellsville
CLARK, KERRI L. (Pastor Daniel)
126 East Fairview Avenue; Connellsville, PA 15425
(C) 724-628-7920 (cell) 724-603-5589
20145 Connellsville
CLEMENT, DAVID H. (Tanya)
437 Flagstaff Drive; Greensburg, PA 15601-6030
(H) 724-832-7235
19664 Retired
COCHRAN, DONALD G. (Elsie)
P.O. Box 185; United, PA 15689-0185
(H) 724-423-2443
19565 Retired
COCHRAN, JOHN R., D.D.
St. Augustine’s House
3316 Drahner Road; Oxford, MI 48370-2506
(cell) 412-478-3493
19631 Retired
DAWES, TIMOTHY M. (Jo Ann)
1986
5
1017 Vine Street; West Newton, PA 15089
(cell) 724-709-0475
DECKINGER, KEITH A. (Pr. Marsha A. Adams)
1997
4
Mt. Zion Lutheran Church
P. O. Box 144; Donegal, PA 15628
(C) 724-593-7600 (H) 724-593-3210
Congregation
Oak Grove
Grace
St. Paul’s
St. John’s
Trinity
Mid Mon Valley Lutheran Parish (Shared Ministry)
Belle Vernon
Lynnwood
Monessen
St. Paul’s
Monongahela
Grace
Smithton
Hope Memorial
West Newton
Christ
Donegal
Mt. Zion
DELK, JACK A. (Donna)
2011
3
235 Elmtree Road; New Kensington, PA 15068
(C) 724-763-9968 (H) 724-337-3641
Ford City
Manorville
DIBBLE, MELBA (Peter)
2012
6
1443 Stoltz Road; Bethel Park, PA 15102
(cell) 412-212-8794
Pittsburgh Lutheran United Ministries (Shared Ministry)
Canonsburg
St. Paul’s*
Carnegie
St. Andrew
Coraopolis
Zion
Duquesne
Christ
Munhall
Messiah*
Oakdale
Resurrection*
Bethany
East Liberty
Trinity
Trinity
May, 2016
78
St. John’s
Grace
*One-year trial with PLUM
BULLETIN OF REPORTS
Name
Yr. Ordained
Conf.
DIEHM, WILLIAM B. (Sue Ann)
1981
2
St. John’s of Highland Lutheran Church
311 Cumberland Road; Pittsburgh, PA 15237-5409
(C) 412-364-1606 (H) 412-366-1749; Fax: 412-364-8477
Location
Congregation
Senior Pastor
Pittsburgh
(North Hills)
St. John’s
of Highland
DITTENHAFER, REBECCA F. (Raymond)
2012
5
Carmichaels
Hatfield Ferry Lutheran Parish (St. Paul’s and Jacob’s)
Masontown
224 South Market Street; Carmichaels, PA 15320
(C) 724-966-7177 (cell) 724-812-6251
DOLLHOPF, JAMES W. (Jane)
215 Filbert Road; Butler, PA 16001
(H) 724-285-8212
19742 Retired
DOROW, JAMES P. (Lenora)
59 Pacific Boulevard; Monessen, PA 15062-1304
(H) 724-684-5286
19645 Retired
DOUGHERTY, ANDREW F., III (Karen)
1667 Palmland Drive; Boynton Beach, FL 33436
(cell) 724-244-9672
19813 Retired
DUBLER, HERBERT D. (Andrea)
406 South 12th Street; Connellsville, PA 15425
(H) 724-603-2616
19635 Retired
EISENBRANDT, NOLA M. (Pr. Arlyn)
194 Adrian Sherrett Road; Adrian, PA 16210-1904
(H) 724-543-5717
1989
3
ENGEL, JAMES C. (Erica)
2009
5
St. Peter Lutheran Church
121 Walnut Hill Road; Uniontown, PA 15401
(C) 724-439-4730 (H/cell) 509-406-0926
Uniontown
ESSECK, MARSELLA R.
112 Burgess Drive; Zelienople, PA 16063-1580
(H) 724-473-0181
1988
2
St. Paul’s
Jacob’s
St. Peter
EVANS, BRIAN A. (Pr. Erin)
20071 Pittsburgh
(Downtown)
615 Grant Street; Pittsburgh, PA 15219-4401
(C) 412-471-8125 (H/cell) 412-915-3196
First
EVANS, ERIN E. (Pr. Brian)
20085 Greenock
Peace Lutheran Church
P.O. Box 41, 641 Zimmer Hill Drive; Greenock, PA 15047
(C) 412-751-8073 (cell) 412-580-7773
Peace
FAHRION, CLETUS W.
799 Maplewood Avenue; Ambridge, PA 15003
(H) 724-266-1340
19611 Retired
FERGUSON, DENNIS J. (Lisa)
1987
Perry Highway Lutheran Church
11403 Perry Highway; Wexford, PA 15090-8751
(C) 724-935-1226 (H) 724-443-4884; Fax: 724-940-4268
2
79
Wexford
Perry Highway
May, 2016
BULLETIN OF REPORTS
Name
Yr. Ordained
Conf.
Location
Congregation
FISCHER, ROGER R., D.Min., D.D. (Catherine)
975 Overlook Drive; Washington, PA 15301-5925
(H) 724-222-5216
19906 Retired
FLOCK, RICHARD H. (Barbara)
337 Elm Drive; Greensburg, PA 15601-5714
(H) 724-850-8882
19604 Retired
FREE, ROBERT A. (Bonny)
5018 Eagle Point Drive; Greensburg, PA 15601-1112
(H) 724-834-5283
19754 Retired
FUHR, JENNIFER L.
2500 Brandt School Road; Wexford, PA 15090
(O) 724-935-2746 (cell) 512-626-8238
20042 Wexford
GAGO, ROBERT A.
524 Madison Blvd.; Freedom, PA 15042
(H) 724-709-8681
19782 Retired
GALBRAITH, MARTIN J.
1993
1
(Pr. Margarethe Galbraith-Cordes)
New Hope Lutheran Church
200 Second Avenue (Economy Boro); Freedom, PA 15042-2603
(C) 724-869-1187 (H) 724-869-1175; Fax: 724-869-1187*
Freedom
(Economy Boro)
GALBRAITH-CORDES, MARGARETHE D., D.Min.
1990
2
(Pr. Martin Galbraith)
English Lutheran Church
200 East Grandview Avenue; Zelienople, PA 16063
(C) 724-452-8110 (H) 724-869-1175
Zelienople (Call effective May 8, 2016)
GARRETT, RONALD
1544 Woodbine Street; Pittsburgh, PA 15201
(H) 412-613-9647
1968
Retired
GILLESPIE, WAYNE G. (Laurel)
721 Blue Ridge Road; Pittsburgh, PA 15239
(C) 412-795-1212 (H) 724-519-8255
19884 Murrysville
GLEASON, DAVID P., D.Min. (Joyce)
1972
32257 Bayshore Drive; Millsboro, DE 19966
(cell) 412-770-6112
1
1
GOETZE, WILFRED K. (Sandra)
1977
2
Passavant Retirement Community
401 South Main Street; Zelienople, PA 16063-1585
(C) 724-452-3594 (H) 724-452-4279; Fax: 724-452-3684
GRANCE, RICHARD P. (Barbara)
513 Keystone Drive; New Kensington, PA 15068-4666
(H) 724-335-7262
May, 2016
New Hope
English
Christ’s
Retired
Zelienople
Passavant Retirement
Community
Zelienople
19643 Retired
80
Trinity
Seaman Memorial
BULLETIN OF REPORTS
Name
Yr. Ordained
GREEN, DONALD B., D.Min. (Kathy)
8612 West Barkhurst Drive; Pittsburgh, PA 15237
(H) 412-366-3894
Conf.
Location
Congregation
19742 Retired
GROPP, JOHN J. (Colleen)
1976
5
Christ Lutheran Church
405 Kennedy Avenue; Duquesne, PA 15110-1245
(C) 412-466-7773 (H) 412-466-8644
Canonsburg
St. Paul’s*
Carnegie
St. Andrew
Coraopolis
Zion
Duquesne
Christ
Munhall
Messiah*
Oakdale
Resurrection*
Bethany
East Liberty
Trinity
Trinity
GRUESU, PAUL M. (Dana)
St. Matthias Lutheran Church
100 Chapel View Drive; Greensburg, PA 15601-1002
(C) 724-834-2457 (cell) 724-837-6212
Greensburg
2008
4
St. Matthias
GULLICKSON, RANDAL K. (Tracy)
1977
2
Executive Director
LutherlynLutherlyn
P.O. Box 355; Prospect, PA 16052-0355
Prospect
(O) 724-865-2161 (H) 724-865-9611; Fax: 724-865-9794
HALL, NATALIE L. G. (The Rev. Daniel)
412 Locust Street; Pittsburgh, PA 15218
(home cell) 703-963-2789
2009
HARMAN, JOHN P., M.A. (Stephanie)
607 Rial Lane; Greensburg, PA 15601-4636
(H) 724-834-3081
19624 Retired
HARTBAUER, CHARLES J. (Pennie)
220 East Edgewood Drive; McMurray, PA 15317-3347
(H) 724-942-0735
19656 Retired
HAUSER, WILLIAM L. (Patricia)
26 Winding Way; Verona, PA 15147
(H) 412-826-5993
19664 Retired
6
On Leave from Call
HAWK, BETH ANN
2015
3
On Leave from Call
41 Deep Hollow Lane; Lancaster, PA 17603
(H) 717-808-7467
HAWK, ROBERT C. (Arleen)
14 Windihill Drive; Greensburg, PA 15601-1043
(H) 724-836-2126
19684 Retired
HEAGY, DOUGLAS M., D.Min. (Barbara)
1993
6
Mt. Lebanon United Lutheran Church
975 Washington Road; Pittsburgh, PA 15228
(O) 412-563-0300 (H) 412-276-0715
81
Mt. Lebanon United
May, 2016
BULLETIN OF REPORTS
Name
Yr. Ordained
Conf.
Location
HEBRANK, DONALD E. (Sandra)
390 South Palm Street; Washington, PA 15301
(H) 724-993-4127
1959
HEITZENRODER, FREDERICK C. (Wendy)
105 Dana Drive; Greensburg, PA 15601
(H) 724-837-4868
19744 Retired
HENRY, WILLIAM B., JR. (Debra)
580 Dutch Ridge Road; Beaver, PA 15009
(H) 724-709-7325
1990
1
Congregation
Retired
On Leave from Call
HERNSTROM, JACK E. (Nancy)
20035 Retired
5700 Bunkerhill Street, Apt. 1207; Pittsburgh, PA 15206
(H/cell) 724-554-1235
HESS, CRAIG T., M.S.Ed. (Ghislaine)
19754 Chaplain
33 Oakhill Avenue; Greensburg, PA 15601-3183
State Correctional Institution
(O) 814-443-8100 ext. 8360 (H) 724-832-9367
Somerset
HIGGINS, JAMES A. (Carolyn)
177 Bear Creek Road; Sarver, PA 16055
(H) 724-353-8131
19772 Retired
HILLS, GORDON C. (Pr. Jennifer Bannerman)
1990
45 Berry Lane; Jim Thorpe, PA 18229-9693
(cell) 570-778-7524
Retired
HOUGH, CHRISTINA A. (Tom)
2006
6
St. Mark’s Lutheran Church
933 Brookline Boulevard; Pittsburgh, PA 15226-2105
(C) 412-531-9575 (cell) 412-477-9729; Fax: 412-531-0911
Pittsburgh
(Brookline)
St. Mark’s
HOWER, ELAINE M. (Robert)
Bethesda Lutheran Church
3084 Leechburg Road; Lower Burrell, PA 15068-3452
(C) 724-335-0559 (H) 724-226-3165
1998
Lower Burrell
Bethesda
HOWER, WILLIAM A.
108 Lansdowne Drive; Moon Township, PA 15108-3028
(H) 412-269-1222
19636 Retired
HUGHES, JAMES P. (Carol)
651 Swansea Road; Newark, OH 43055-1515
(H) 740-344-8378
1966
HUHN, C. GERALD (Lana)
2031 Winchester Court; Renfrew, PA 16053-9253
(H) 724-789-7588
19662 Retired
May, 2016
3
82
Retired
*One-year trial with MMVLP
BULLETIN OF REPORTS
Name
Yr. Ordained
Conf.
Location
HURNYAK, S. CYRIL, M.Ch.M. (Christina)
2006 Lavale Court; Murrysville, PA 15668
(H) 724-733-5470
19714 Retired
IRONS, SUSAN AUGUSTA GAYLE
1221 Blaine Road; Monaca, PA 15061-1025
(H) 724-775-7089
19941 Baden
ITTERLY, ALLYN K. [Cyndi Clinton]
1992
6
Prince of Peace Lutheran Church
400 Old Clairton Road; Pittsburgh, PA 15236-4337
(C) 412-655-2168; (H/cell) 412-719-8811; Fax: 412-655-2168*
Pittsburgh
(Pleasant Hills)
JOHNS, BRANDON A. (Christine)
St. Peter’s Lutheran Church
202 Van Buren Street; Evans City, PA 16033
(O) 724-538-5810
2011
Evans City
JOHNSTON, JOCELYN Trinity Lutheran Church
323 Fifth Street; Freeport, PA 16229
(C) 724-295-9557 (H) 724-295-3437
20103 Freeport
2
JOSEPHSON, KEITH A. (Cristina)
19843 Pittsburgh
Messiah Lutheran Church
(Morningside)
1736 Jancey Street; Pittsburgh, PA 15206-1146
(C) 412-661-4788 (H) 412-661-4080
KANTZ, FRANK A. (Grace)
166 McLanahan Drive; Beaver Falls, PA 15010-1646
(H) 724-891-1211
19701 Retired
KEEFER, EDWARD C., JR. (Donna)
3616 Equestrian Drive; Dover, PA 17315-3722
(H) 717-292-4730
1968
KEMP, LARRY E., J.D. (Joyce)
1997
6
1509 Grandin Avenue; Pittsburgh, PA 15216
(Home/Cell) 412-302-6988
Congregation
Rehoboth
Prince of Peace
St. Peter’s
Trinity
Messiah
Retired
Intentional Interim
Ford City
Ford City
Ford City
Ford City
Bethel
Emmanuel (Heilman)
St. Michael’s
United Rockville
KEPLINGER, ROBERT A. (Lana)
19832 Retired
760 Lancaster Road; Fombell, PA 16123
(cell) 724-601-9330
KOBERT, RYAN D. (Cindy)
Faith Lutheran Church
6810 Route 22 East; New Florence, PA 15944
(C) 724-676-2240 (cell) 412-302-5202
2014
KOCH, PAUL F., D.Min. (Sharon)
8 Castle View Drive; McKees Rocks, PA 15136-1892
(cell) 773-848-1470
19703 Retired
KRUG, RICHARD W. [William Gebauer]
1989
St. John’s Lutheran Church
715 Lincoln Highway; North Versailles, PA 15137-2027
(C) 412-824-0277 (H) 412-673-1779; Fax: 412-824-5988
4
4
83
New Florence
North Versailles
Faith
St. John’s
May, 2016
BULLETIN OF REPORTS
Name
KUECHENMEISTERHALL, SCOTT A. (Judy)
Nativity Lutheran Church
4517 Mt. Royal Boulevard; Allison Park, PA 15101
(O) 412-487-1071 (H) 412-421-0162
Yr. Ordained
1994
Conf.
2
Location
Allison Park
Congregation
Nativity
KUSSEROW, KURT F. (Pamela)
19892 Bishop
9625 Perry Highway; Pittsburgh, PA 15237-5590
(O) 412-367-8222 (H) 412-486-0267; Fax: 412-369-8890
KUSSEROW, RALPH F. (Carol)
2800 McCully Road; Allison Park, PA 15101
(H) 412-486-2730
19632 Retired
LANDERS, TERRI L. (Robert)
Forks-Zion Lutheran Church
253 Forks Church Road; Leechburg, PA 15656
(C) 724-845-6627
20133 Leechburg
LARSEN, LEONARD J.
1521 Chestnut Ridge Drive; Pittsburgh, PA 15205
(cell) 412-215-8359
19686 Retired
LEE-FAULKNER, SARAH M. 2000
2
(O) 412-367-8222 (H) 412-366-4203; Fax: 412-369-8840
Assistant to the Bishop
LITTKE, DAVID M., D.Min. (Nancy)
19872
157 Peony Avenue; Pittsburgh, PA 15229-1076
C) 412-364-4954 (H) 412-366-8062
Pittsburgh
(Ross Township)
Pittsburgh
(Laurel Gardens)
LOCKWOOD, CHARLES T., M.A., Ed.D. 1975
2
Glade Run Lutheran Services
P.O. Box 70; Zelienople, PA 16063-0070
(O) 724-452-4453, ext. 1100 (H) 724-452-9001; Fax: 724-452-6576
President & CEO
Zelienople
LOVE, BARBARA E.
Zion Lutheran Church
557 Perry Highway; Harmony, PA 16037-7413
(C) 724-452-8886 (H) 724-452-1112
20012 Harmony
LUBOLD, HEATHER SCHAFFER (Pr. Paul)
1994
2
Berkeley Hills Lutheran Church
517 Sangree Road; Pittsburgh, PA 15237-3949
(C) 412-486-4010 (H) 412-486-1338; Fax: 412-486-4729
Pittsburgh
(North Hills)
LUBOLD, PAUL L. (Pr. Heather)
19892 Pittsburgh
(Millvale)
917 Evergreen Avenue; Pittsburgh, PA 15209
(C) 412-821-4300 (H) 412-486-1338
May, 2016
84
Forks-Zion
Christ
Faith
Zion
Berkeley Hills
Christ
BULLETIN OF REPORTS
Name
LUTTNER, SUSAN L.
331 Birkdale Drive; Greensburg, PA 15601-7409
(H) 724-832-6799
Yr. Ordained
1988
Conf.
4
Location
LYNN, JONATHAN [J.J.] (Pr. Tara)
2011
2
First English Lutheran Church
125 North Main Street; Pittsburgh, PA 15215
(C - First) 412-782-1623 (C - Emmanuel) 412-781-2764 (cell) 412-600-6232
Pittsburgh
(Sharpsburg)
Pittsburgh (Etna)
LYNN, TARA R. (Pr. Jonathan)
2010
Grace @ Calvary Lutheran Church
123 East Diamond Street; Butler, PA 16001
(O) 724-283-0830 (cell) 412-398-4444
Butler
2
Congregation
First English
Emmanuel
Grace @ Calvary
MATTHEWS, DAVID, JR., Th.M., M.P.A. (Barbara)1967 2 Retired
115 Jackson Street; Glenshaw, PA 15116-1417
(H) 412-487-5469 (cell) 412-848-2165
MAYFORTH, ELIZABETH (David)
19876 Chaplain
1511 Hastings Mill Road; Pittsburgh, PA 15241
UPMC Children’s Hospital
(H) 412-977-9392
Pittsburgh
McCOID, DONALD J., D.D. (Saundra)
19682 Retired
8696 West Barkhurst Drive; Pittsburgh, PA 15237
(H) 412-366-8278
McCURDY, THOMAS A. (Delores)
268 Maidenblush Drive; New Wilmington, PA 16142
(H) 724-946-2633
19811 Retired
McCURRY, JENNIFER R. PETERS (Jeff)
2009
1
615 Grant Street; Pittsburgh, PA 15219
(C) 412-471-8125 (H) 412-404-2069
Associate Pastor
Pittsburgh (Downtown)
McGREGOR, JILL E.
2008
1
399 State Street; Baden, PA 15005-1946
(C) 724-869-7635; (C) 724-266-1169; (H) 724-869-3421
Ambridge
Baden
MENDIS, CAROLINE M. (Pr. George)
1220 Milton Street; Pittsburgh, PA 15218
(cell) 412-915-6350
1974
Retired
MENDIS, GEORGE W. (Pr. Caroline)
1220 Milton Street; Pittsburgh, PA 15218
(cell) 412-759-5679
19771 Retired
MERKNER, RICHARD L. (Susan)
54 Hiland Avenue; Pittsburgh, PA 15202
(cell) 412-600-0492
19701 Retired
1 85
First
Our Savior’s
Christ
May, 2016
BULLETIN OF REPORTS
Name
Yr. Ordained
Conf.
Location
MESSINGER, LEWIS R., CH. (CPT.)
4359 Vista Drive; Nazareth, PA 18064-9643
(O) 315-772-0462
1996
MEYER, RALPH L. (Rosemary)
6056 Meadow Lane; Bakerstown, PA 15007-9720
(H) 724-443-4937
19622 Retired
MOHR-KELLY, PATRICIA A. (Deacon Richard)
342 Marylea Avenue; Pittsburgh, PA 15227
(H) 412-207-8281
2002
6
On Leave from Call
MOOG, THOMAS E. (Carmen)
1976
214 Orchard Place; Sewickley, PA 15143-1155
(C) 412-741-8484 (H) 412-741-8483; Fax: 412-741-8484*
1
Sewickley
Congregation
Military Chaplain
St. Paul’s
MORGAN, BLAIR W., D.Min. (Fay)
1978
2
(O) 412-367-8222 (H) 412-487-0808; Fax: 412-369-8840
ELCA Director for Evangelical MissionSouthwestern Pennsylvania Synod
MORT, LARRY F. (Deborah)
1985
6 St. Andrew Lutheran Church
987 Beaver Grade Road; Coraopolis, PA 15108-2745
(C) 412-264-4551 (H) 412-788-3973 ; Fax: 412-262-5996
Coraopolis
(Moon Township)
St. Andrew
MURDY, JOSEPH (Amanda)
2012
6 Ascension Lutheran Church
1290 Silver Lane; McKees Rocks, PA 15136
(C) 412-859-3711 (cell) 412-860-7253
McKees Rocks
Ascension
MUSSER, ROBERT L. (Paulette)
19732 Retired
245 Sweet Gum Road; Pittsburgh, PA 15238-1353
(H) 412-828-1628
MYERS, STEVEN J. (Patricia)
102 Eade Avenue; Glenshaw, PA 15116-1437
(H) 412-486-7290
19662 Retired
NAGY, Z. LOUIS (Fran)
340 Long Drive; Pittsburgh, PA 15241-1314
(H) 412-831-7977
19606 Retired
NEAL, JAMES F. (Susan)
2310 Maple Drive; Ford City, PA 16226
(H) 724-763-8331
19713 Retired
NETHING, NORMAN E., JR.
19675 Retired
10784 Airview Drive; North Huntingdon, PA 15642-4285
(H) 724-863-4025
NEUMANN, RICHARD T. (Linda Kay)
239 Parker Street; Pittsburgh, PA 15223-1614
(H) 412-822-7652
19812 Retired
NEWPHER, ROBERT J. (Suzanne)
3902 Hardt Drive; Gibsonia, PA 15044-9302
(H) 724-443-8519
19732 Retired
May, 2016
86
BULLETIN OF REPORTS
Name
Yr. Ordained
Conf.
Location
NORDBY, PETER E. (Lisa)
1993
4
Youngwood
912 Clayton Street; Greensburg, PA 15601-4993
(C) 724-837-7327 (H) 724-219-3682; Fax: 724-837-4703
NORDEEN, BRUCE P. (Barbara)
1983
6
Carnegie
St. John Lutheran Church
601 Washington Avenue; Carnegie, PA 15106-2836
(C) 412-279-2952 (cell) 412-654-4685; Fax: 412-444-0011
NUERNBERGER, JERRY L. (Kate)
1983
4
246 South Main Street; Greensburg, PA 15601
(C) 724-834-1457 (H/cell) 605-759-6241
Senior Pastor
Greensburg
NYBLADE, ORVILLE W., M.A., Ph.D. (June)
1954
Lutheran Retirement Village
1075 Old Harrisburg Road, Unit 192; Gettysburg, PA 17325-3143
(H) 717-334-0370
Retired
OFSLAGER, KENNETH H., M.Div., S.T.M.
P.O. Box 722; Smithton, PA 15479-0722
(H) 724-872-3328
19654 Retired
OLBERT, SCOTT M. (Deb)
(H) 309-838-7355
Retired
Congregation
St. Luke’s
St. John
First
OLDENBURG, MARK W., M.Div., Ph.D. (Jill Schumann)1980
Professor
Lutheran Theological Seminary
Gettysburg
(O) 717-338-3028 (H) 717-337-3024
ORSEN, DENNIS THEOPHILUS, D.Min.
(Pr. Linda O. Theophilus)
420 Nike Drive; Pittsburgh, PA 15235-4810
(H) 412-824-5945
19674 Retired
PEDERSEN, BRUCE J.
19736 Retired
98/11 Moo 13 Nongprue
Banglamung
Chonburi, Thailand 20260
PEISCHL, VICTOR C., M.P.S., D.D. (Janice)
8244 Coach Court; Allison Park, PA 15101-3324
(H) 412-367-4546
19652 Retired
PETRILL, ALFRED S. (Virginia)
1989
221 Ridge Avenue; New Kensington, PA 15068-5432
(C) 724-335-4004 (H) 724-727-3143; Fax: 724-335-4075
3
New Kensington
PFATTEICHER, PHILIP H., Ph.D. (Lois)
15 Boardman Avenue; Melrose, MA 02176
(H) 412-656-3415
1960
Retired
PODOLINSKI, FRANK S., Jr. (Alice)
2001
Good Shepherd Lutheran Church
501 Fairfield Drive; Greensburg, PA 15601-6101
(C) 724-834-1940 (H) 724-832-1759; Fax: 724-853-9683
4
Greensburg
87
First
Good Shepherd
May, 2016
BULLETIN OF REPORTS
Name
Yr. Ordained
Conf.
Location
Congregation
Ligonier
St. James
POERSCHKE, PAUL D. (Kristin)
St. James Lutheran Church
300 West Main Street; Ligonier, PA 15658-1132
(C) 724-238-7242 (H) 724-238-2708
1981
PROPST, KARA J.
Salem Lutheran Church
301 East Pittsburgh Street; Delmont, PA 15626
(O) 724-468-4189 (H/cell) 304-668-9890
20134 Delmont
RADEMACHER, RONALD J. (Nancy)
481 Cherry Court; Pittsburgh, PA 15237-2607
(H) 412-366-6768
19672 Retired
RAMSTAD, PHILIP S., D. Min. (Deborah)
2352 Lincoln Way; Ford City, PA 16226-1523
(H) 724-763-3990; Fax: 724-763-3990
19653 Retired
4
RAPCZAK, KIMBERLY A.
2002
1
Beaver Falls
Christ’s Lutheran Church
409 11th Street; Beaver Falls, PA 15010-4450
(C) 724-846-2899 (H) 412-331-5235 (cell) 412-951-5102
RAY, GORDON P. (Colleen)
3110 McClure Lane; White Oak, PA 15131-2110
(H) 412-443-6777
19681 Retired
REED, MICHAEL L. [Pastor Cory Reed]
Holy Angels Lutheran Church
201 Caldwell Street; Wilmerding, PA 15148-1105
(cell) 412-855-1991
1995
5
Wilmerding
Salem
Christ’s
Holy Angels
RIETHMILLER, ALLEN R. (Karen)
1977
5
Mid Mon Valley Lutheran Parish
P.O. Box 251; West Newton, PA 15089-0251
(C) 724-872-7177 (H) 724-205-6261
Under Call:
West Newton
Christ
Under Contract:
Belle Vernon
Lynnwood
Monessen
St. Paul’s
Monongahela
Grace*
Smithton
Hope Memorial
RIGG, ROBERT R. (Ardyce)
1467 River Road; Cooksburg, PA 16217-1517
(H) 814-927-5271
Retired
1967
ROBINSON, MICHAEL H. (Annette)
1985
2
(C) 412-364-6626 (H) 724-444-6314; Fax: 412-364-4710
Senior Pastor
Pittsburgh
(Perrysville)
St. John’s
ROSSING, SARAH R. 2016
St. James Lutheran Church
P. O. Box 356, South Latrobe Street; Youngstown, PA 15696
(C) 724-539-7880 (H) 724-879-4258
Youngstown
St. James
May, 2016
4
88
BULLETIN OF REPORTS
Name
Yr. Ordained
Conf.
ROTELLA, CHRISTINE A. (Mark)
2015
1
Abiding Ministries
327 Maplewood Drive; McMurray, PA 15317
(H) 724-942-0609
Location
Congregation
Mission Developer
Abiding Ministries
(A Synodically Authorized Worshiping Community)
RYAN, MICHAEL E.
20045 McKeesport
(White Oak)
1656 Lincoln Way; McKeesport, PA 15131
(C) 412-673-2296 (H) 412-672-0624
Faith
SCANLON, E. ALLEN (Cynthia)
409 Eton Drive; Greensburg, PA 15601-7420
(H) 724-216-5490
19694 Retired
SCHAEFER, ROBERT J. (Dr. Gretchen Underwood)
4503 Old William Penn Highway; Monroeville, PA 15146
(C) 412-372-2934 (cell) 724-640-8691
2003
4
Monroeville
Good Shepherd
SCHAEFER, WILLIAM A. (Jennifer)
2000
Prince of Peace Lutheran Church
1325 Mission Road; Latrobe, PA 15650-2842
(C) 724-537-7273 (H) 724-539-8972; Fax: 724-537-6039
4
Latrobe
Prince of Peace
SCHENKER, FREDERICK P., M.S. Ed., M.A., D.Min.1979
(Joan)
8051 Broadlawn Drive; Pittsburgh, PA 15237
(H) 412-364-3250
2
Retired
SCHLOTTER, ROBERT C. (Carol)
1010 Trailside Court; Jeannette, PA 15644-4738
(H) 724-327-9413
19644 Retired
SCHMID, ANN E., D.Min. (Pr. Steven E. Broome)
1985
6
Our Redeemer Lutheran Church
105 Gateshead Drive; McMurray, PA 15317-3101
(C) 724-941-7467 (cell) 724-554-6016; Fax: 724-941-3262
Senior Pastor
McMurray
SCHNECK, ANTHONY J. (Pr. Patricia)
19952 Gibsonia
3832 Gibsonia Road; Gibsonia, PA 15044
(C) 724-443-8110 (H) 412-486-4203; Fax: 412-486-0551
SCHNECK, PATRICIA A. (Pr. Anthony)
20023
St. Mark’s Lutheran Church
600 Pittsburgh Street; Springdale, PA 15144
(C) 724-274-5313 (H) 412-486-4203
Under call:
Springdale
Under contract:
Verona
SCHOCK, JEFFREY L. (Pamela)
1983
4
331 Weldon Street; Latrobe, PA 15650-1850
(C) 724-537-4450 (H) 724-537-7487; Fax: 724-537-2011
Senior Pastor
Latrobe
89
Our Redeemer
Trinity
St. Mark’s
Trinity
Trinity
May, 2016
BULLETIN OF REPORTS
Name
Yr. Ordained
Conf.
SCHRAMM, BROOKS, M. Div., Ph.D.
1987
(The Rev. Dr. Kirsi Stjerna)
(O) 717-334-6286
Location
Congregation
Associate Professor
Gettysburg
SCHWARTZ, SUSAN C.
1980
4
353 Ridge Avenue; Pittsburgh, PA 15221
(C) 412-242-4476; (H) 412-241-6668
Email: [email protected]
Hope
SHEEHAN, EDWARD F. (Nancy)
1981
4
(O) 412-367-8222 (H) 724-325-7264
SIEFERT, BETH L.
1980
6
St. Andrew Lutheran Church
218 Alter Street; Carnegie, PA 15106-1116
(C) 412-279-3615 (H) 412-279-2281; Fax: 412-278-3712
Canonsburg
St. Paul’s*
Carnegie
St. Andrew
Coraopolis
Zion
Duquesne
Christ
Munhall
Messiah*
Oakdale
Resurrection*
Bethany
East Liberty
Trinity
Trinity
SMAIL, DANIEL P. (Pr. Kari)
2001
2
Bethlehem Lutheran Church
1719 Mt. Royal Boulevard; Glenshaw, PA 15116-2105
(C) 412-486-0550 (H) 412-367-5766; Fax: 412-486-0551
Senior Pastor
Glenshaw
SMAIL, KARI B. (Pr. Daniel)
2001
2
St. John’s of Highland Lutheran Church
311 Cumberland Road; Pittsburgh, PA 15237-5409
(C) 412-364-1606 (H) 412-367-5766; Fax: 412-364-8477
Associate Pastor
Pittsburgh
(North Hills)
SMALIGO, JOHN M. (Mary)
1981
4 Harrold Zion Lutheran Church
671 Baltzer Meyer Pike; Greensburg, PA 15601-6432
(C) 724-837-7327 (H) 724-691-0178; Fax: 724-837-4703
Senior Pastor
Greensburg
SMITH, ROBERT (Nancy)
27 Surrey Drive; Greensburg, PA 15601-9384
(H) 724-834-5936
19594 Retired
SMITH, THOMAS A.
102 Waterfront Ridge Lane; Munhall, PA 15120
(H) 412-200-5240
19572 Retired
SMITH, WARREN L. (Sara Lea)
329 Ninth Avenue; McKeesport, PA 15132-3927
(C) 412-673-5647 (H) 412-373-5271
1972
Bethlehem
Harrold Zion
5
McKeesport
St. John’s
SNYDER, DAVID A. (Pastor Freda)
2008
1
111 Morrow Lane; Beaver, PA 15009
(O) 724-654-2642 (H) 878-201-3141 (cell) 724-987-8708
New Castle
St. John’s
May, 2016
90
BULLETIN OF REPORTS
Name
Yr. Ordained
Location
Congregation
SNYDER, FREDA A. (Pastor David)
2005
1
111 Morrow Lane; Beaver, PA 15009
(O) 724-774-1413 (H) 878-201-3141 (cell) 724-987-8934
Beaver
Beaver (Brighton Township)
Holy Trinity
Hope
SOURWINE, MICHAEL J. (Stacey)
House of Prayer Lutheran Church
2100 Irwin Street; Aliquippa, PA 15001-2943
(C) 724-375-2033 (cell) 724-422-7959
(H) 724-375-4848; Fax: 724-375-2033
Aliquippa
2008
Conf.
1
House of Prayer
STABE, MATTHEW C.
1997
5
P. O. Box 154; Monessen, PA 15062
Belle Vernon
Lynnwood
(C) 724-258-4505 (H) 724-314-3595 (cell) 724-858-5631
Monessen
St. Paul’s
Monongahela
Grace*
Smithton
Hope Memorial
West Newton
Christ
STAFFA, JEAN R. (George)
19892 Retired
208 Rieger Road; Butler, PA 16001-0260
(H) 724-306-1020
STEINER, ROGER L. (Gwendolyn)
Penn-Zion’s Lutheran Church
P.O. Box 351; Harrison City, PA 15636-0351
(C) 724-744-3151 (H) 412-829-1174
1989
STENNETT, THOMAS R. (Judith)
216 Lexington Avenue; Pittsburgh, PA 15215-3221
(H) 412-781-3921
19582 Retired
4
Harrison City
STOLLER, MELISSA L. (Eric)
2005
4Pittsburgh
(Penn Hills)
11609 Frankstown Road; Pittsburgh, PA 15235
(C) 412-242-2626 (H) 412-365-2135 (cell) 218-780-0305
STORM, RALPH W.
112 Marwood Road, Apartment 4314
Cabot, PA 16023-2239
(H) 724-352-3993
19542 Retired
STROBEL, ROBERT W. (Joyce)
332 Tadmar Avenue; Pittsburgh, PA 15237-1822
(H) 412-366-0074
19622 Retired
STUCKEY, GENE R., SR., D.Min. (Brenda)
912 Kunkle Drive; Greensburg, PA 15601-1338
(H) 724-853-7038
19734 Retired
SUEHR, CHRISTOPHER J. (Angela)
2013
8070 Rowan Road; Cranberry Township, PA 16066-3614
(O) 724-776-3141 (cell) 724-433-2312
2
91
Cranberry Township
Penn-Zion’s
Zion
Hope
May, 2016
BULLETIN OF REPORTS
Name
Yr. Ordained
Conf.
Location
Congregation
Holy Trinity
SUEHR, CLIFTON J., M.S.Ed., D.Min. (Jeanne)
1979
502 Main Street; Irwin, PA 15642-3405
(C) 724-863-7350 (H) 724-861-6765; Fax: 724-863-7540
5
Irwin
SUHR-BARKLEY, MARGARET ANN (Dennis Barkley) 1985
207 Spring Avenue; Ellwood City, PA 16117-2146
(C) 724-752-3050 (H) 724-452-5539; Fax: 724-752-3050
1
Ellwood City
TAYLOR, VAUGHN E. (Trudy)
110 South 14th Street; Indiana, PA 15701-2505
(H) 724-464-0676 (cell) 724-388-4561
Trinity
19653 Retired
THEOPHILUS, LINDA ORSEN (Pr. Dennis T. Orsen)
19854 Pittsburgh
Emmanuel Lutheran Church
(Eastmont)
1229 Jefferson Heights Road; Pittsburgh, PA 15235-4826
(C) 412-824-4525 (H) 412-824-5945
THOMPSON, CURTIS L. (Kathryn)
1974
19 Shady Avenue; Greenville, PA 16125-1822
(O) 724-589-2106 (H) 724-588-9580
Emmanuel
Professor
Thiel College
Greenville
THOMPSON, DEBRA D.
2005
On Leave from Call
117 Gateway Court, Apt. 105; Chesapeake, VA 23320
(cell) 412-592-4918
THOMPSON, KAREN C. (Pr. Kenneth)
2012
5
Mount Pleasant
Good Shepherd
822 West Main Street; Mount Pleasant, PA 15666
(O) 724-547-5941 (H) 724-925-1742 (cell) 724-884-5827
THOMPSON, KENNETH H. (Pr. Karen)
19745 Retired
221 South Fourth Street; Youngwood, PA 15697
(H) 724-925-1742 (cell) 724-884-5827
TOLLNER, JOHN D.
19684 Retired
168 East Third Street; Derry, PA 15627
(H) 724-694-1199
URSIN, RAYMOND A.
311 Sundust Road; Eighty Four, PA 15330-2319
(H) none available at time of printing
19735 Retired
van DRIEL, KIMBERLY M. (The Rev. Edwin)
2006
6
241 North Main Street; Butler, PA 16001
(C) 724-283-2378 (H) 724-687-0473
VAN ECK, DONA M., D.Min.
1723 Rialto Street; Pittsburgh, PA 15212-3622
(H) 412-321-5740
May, 2016
Butler
19813 Retired
92
First English
BULLETIN OF REPORTS
Name
Yr. Ordained
Conf.
von SCHLICHTEN, DAVID P., D.Min., Ph.D. (Kim)
1997
4
422 Welty Street; Greensburg, PA 15601
(H) 724-757-6695
Location
Assistant Professor of Religious Studies and
Campus Minister
Seton Hill University
Greensburg
WEBER, REINHOLD K. 706 Genkinger Court; Zelienople, PA 16063-2206
(H) 724-452-3699
19482 Retired
WEIDENHAMER, W. WESLEY, M.S.W. (Anne)
71 Forest Road; Bradford Woods, PA 15015
(cell) 412-585-2319
19682 Retired
WEIRICK, A. PATRICE
20051 Aliquippa
Center Township Lutheran Parish
Monaca
100 Center Grange Road; Aliquippa, PA 15001-1419
(C) 724-775-7030 (H) 724-774-4278; Fax: 724-775-7030
WENTE, JAMES H. (Helga)
3 Oregon Trail; Bethel Park, PA 15102-1919
(H) 412-851-1659
Congregation
Faith
Van Kirk
19626 Retired
WERYHA, RONALD M., M.Ed. (Lori)
19886 Pittsburgh
(Upper St. Clair)
80 Bartley Road; Pittsburgh, PA 15241-1204
(C) 412-835-4590 (H) 412-833-5727; Fax: 412-835-7470
WEST, JAMES N. (Rebecca)
P. O. Box 4164; Hidden Valley, PA 15502
(H) 814-714-0900
19735 Retired
WILLIAMS, PHILIP W. (Nancy)
3305 Cramlington Drive; Gibsonia, PA 15044-8249
(H) 724-443-2959
1967
WINZELER, WILLIAM C. (Carol Ann)
304 Blackstone Road; Moon Township, PA 15108-3112
(H) 412-375-7392
19686 Retired
2
WOODMAN-HOWE, ANNETTE M., D.Min.
1990
4
1904 Shaye Court, Suite 318; Hunker, PA 15639
(C) 724-925-9216 (H) 724-635-3382
Faith
Retired
Hunker
New Stanton
St. Matthew’s
St. Mark’s
WORTH, DONALD S., S.T.M., M.A. (Pr. Dorothy) 19745 Retired
2104 Ramsey Road; Monroeville, PA 15146-4822
(H) 412-856-1277
WORTH, DOROTHY J. (Pr. Donald)
2104 Ramsey Road; Monroeville, PA 15146-4822
(C) 724-863-1920 (H) 412-856-1277
19965 Irwin
YEDLICKA, JOHN F. (Sandra)
192 Friar Lane; McMurray, PA 15317-3356
(H) 724-941-8183
19656 Retired
93
Paintertown
May, 2016
BULLETIN OF REPORTS
Name
Yr. Ordained
Conf.
Location
YODER, DAVID A. (Pamela)
319 Pine Street; Beaver, PA 15009-1025
(H) 724-495-7324
19821 Retired
ZEMAN, FRANK L., D.Min. (Judy)
2801 Jenny Lind Street; McKeesport, PA 15132-5041
(H) 412-678-1340
19665 Retired
ZIKELI, FREDERICK B. (Beverly)
610 Susan Drive; North Huntingdon, PA 15642-3126
(H) 724-863-7304
19635 Retired
ZIMMERMAN, ROBERT F. (Carol)
2007
2
St. John Lutheran Church
420 Beaver Street, Box 411; Mars, PA 16046
(C) 724-625-1830 (H) 724-452-5165
Mars
ZUNDEL, DONALD K.
9391 West Indore Drive; Littleton, CO 80128-4183
(H) 303-932-2957
Retired
May, 2016
1959
94
Congregation
St. John
BULLETIN OF REPORTS
PERSONS ON THE LAY ROSTER
of the
Listing as of May 1, 2016
Year
Consecrated or Commissioned
Congregation, Agency
or Institution
Conf.
DEACONESSES
AMIOTTE, SISTER JANE
723 Temperance Street; Saskatoon, Saskatchewan CANADA S7NOM6
(cell) 724-841-1744
1999
McCRACKEN, SISTER MILDRED Y.
700 South Green Lane, Apartment 313; Zelienople, PA 16063
(home/cell) 412-736-3244
2003Retired
Retired
NA
2
DIACONAL MINISTERS
BAUBLITZ, SARA JANE (James)
2013
700 Light Street; Baltimore, MD 21230
(cell) 267-566-1360
Relationship Manager
President’s Office
Lutheran World Relief
MOHR-KELLY, RICHARD C. (Pr. Pat)
342 Marylea Avenue; Pittsburgh, PA 15227
(H) 412-207-8281
On Leave from Call
6
Director of Faith Formation and Outreach
Zion
4
Protestant Chaplain
UPMC Mercy Hospital
Pittsburgh
2
2010
SANTORIELLO, AMY B.
2012
11609 Frankstown Road; Pittsburgh, PA 15205
(O) 412-242-2626 (cell) 412-225-8706
WENTZ, DIANNA S.
1998
91 8th Avenue; Pittsburgh, PA 15229-1339
(O) 412-232-8198 (H) 412-366-2854
ASSOCIATES IN MINISTRY
BRIGAMAN, LINDA B. (William)
831 Crestwood Drive; Greensburg, PA 15601-6249
(H) 724-446-5209
2001Retired
4
CAYWOOD, ELIZABETH A. (Terry)1999
Under Call:2
Director, Resource Center
(O) 412-367-8222 (H) 412-213-3943
Fax: 412-369-8840
Under Contract (part-time):
Mission & Advancement Deployed Staff
Coordinator, ELCA Resource Centers
DUBLER, ANDREA L. (Pr. Herbert)
1987Retired
5
406 South 12th Street; Connellsville, PA 15425
(H) 724-603-2616
HEGEMANN, DENISE A.
1978Librarian
134 Pershing Circle; Latrobe, PA 15650-9012
St. Vincent College
(O) 724-805-2370 (H) 724-537-3053 Fax: 724-537-4558
Latrobe
4
KUNKLE, MICHELLE A. (Jerry)
2012
502 Main Street; Irwin, PA 15642
(O) 724-863-7350 x 14 (H/cell) 724-493-1910
5
95
Director of Christian Education and
Youth Ministry
Holy Trinity, Irwin
May, 2016
BULLETIN OF REPORTS
Year
Consecrated or Commissioned
MONTELARO, DR. JANET (Dr. Ronald)
2010
127 Greenbriar Drive; Wexford, PA 15090-7322
(O) 724-935-2746 (H) 724-935-2675
NURNBERGER, MARK C. (Beth)
1987
1305 Orvis Avenue; Pittsburgh, PA 15223-1141
(C) 412-486-0550 (H) 412-487-8321
PERMAR, PHYLLIS J.
109 Jomat Drive; McMurray, PA 15317-3038
(H) 724-941-5944
Congregation, Agency
or Institution
Conf.
Lay Minister
Trinity
Wexford
2
Director of Music and
Christian Education
Bethlehem
Glenshaw
2
1984Retired
6
ROBERTS, DEBRA LYNN (Jeffrey)
2007 Assistant Director
LutherlynLutherlyn
P.O. Box 355; Prospect, PA 16052-0355
Prospect
(O) 724-865-2161 (H) 412-386-8148
Fax: 724-865-9794
2
SONTAG, JEAN M. (Raymond)
100 White Hampton Lane, #602; Pittsburgh, PA 15236-1542
(H) 412-881-7302
6
1985Retired
SYNODICALLY AUTHORIZED MINISTERS
RAVENSTAHL, BARBARA A.Faith
Natrona Heights
1500 Broadview Boulevard; Natrona Heights, PA 15065-2010
(O) 724-224-5777 (H) 412-922-6055
3
PERSONS PROVIDING PASTORAL SERVICES WHO ARE NO LONGER ON OUR CLERGY ROLL
WAXBOM, MR. ERNEST
849 Jane Street; Pittsburgh, PA 15239-1115
(Home/Cell) 412-671-4072
MINISTERS NOT ON THE ROSTER OF THE SOUTHWESTERN PA SYNOD - Listing as of May 1, 2016
List of Ministers
Conf.
Location
COVAL, THE REV. ROBERT P.
2
P.O. Box 30; Ellwood City, PA 16117-0030
(C) 724-865-2490 (H) 724-752-8170
(Anglican Priest)
DAMON, ERIC
4
Bethel Lutheran Church
647 Bethel Church Road; Latrobe, PA 15650
(C) 724-593-2423 (H) 724-953-6314
(Vicar)
ERICKSON, THE REV. THEODORE
4
P.O. Box 124; Laughlintown, PA 15655-0124
(C) 724-527-0001 (H) 724-238-6819
Jeannette
(U.C.C. Pastor)
HOLLINGSWORTH, GENE
6
9406 Sundance Drive; Bridgeville, PA 15017
(O) 412-276-2446
(Indiana-Kentucky Synod, Retired)
May, 2016
96
Congregation
St. John’s Stone
Bethel
St. Mark’s
Good Shepherd
BULLETIN OF REPORTS
MINISTERS NOT ON THE ROSTER OF THE SOUTHWESTERN PA SYNOD (continued) - May 1, 2016
HOOGERBRUGGE, THE REV. JOHN J.
2
St. John Specialty Care Center
P.O. Box 928; Mars, PA 16046-0928
(O) 724-625-4830; 724-452-5400 ext. 4916
(H) 724-452-1496
Mars
St. John Specialty Care Center
Zelienople
Passavant Retirement Community
(Elim Fellowship Minister)
JONES, THE REV. LOTA (Dave)
6
Grace Ev. Lutheran Church
6810 Hilldale Drive; Pittsburgh, PA 15236
(C) 412-655-3100 (H) 412-945-3016
(United Methodist Pastor)
KRUEL, MR. ROBERT
5
8 Painter Street; Grapeville, PA 15634-9714
(C) 724-834-7252 (H) 724-527-3488
Mt. Pleasant
(Licensed U.C.C. Minister)
LUDWIG, THE REV. JOHN K.
3
Sons of Zebedee Lutheran Church
422 Salt Street; Saltsburg, PA 15681-1124
(C) 724-478-1528; 724-639-3411; (H) 724-697-4135
Apollo
Saltsburg
(Northwestern PA Synod Pastor)
Grace
St. John’s
Spring Church
Sons of Zebedee
WIDOWS AND WIDOWERS OF PASTORS - LISTING AS OF MAY 1, 2016
Name and Address
Widow or Widower of
ADAM, DOROTHY 13 Kingswood Road; Danbury, CT 06811-2810; (H) 203-746-5318
JOHN (1928-2005)
NA
ANDERSON, CAROLINE
555 Georgetowne Village; Indiana, PA 15701-2477; (H) 724-465-7811
E. EARL (1928-2015)
NA
BATESON, KAREN
1505 Greentree Road; Pittsburgh, PA 15220; (H) 412-561-1678
JOHN (1949-2014)
6
BLACK, BONNIE A.
c/o Heather Abebe; 1569 Arran Way; Dresher, PA 19025-1205; (H) 215-654-1236
GEORGE E. (1940-1985)
6
BUCHER, ALMA
552 North Neville Street; Pittsburgh, PA 15213; (H) 412-621-2868
JOHN (1931-1996)3
BUNTROCK, CECELIA
1521 Chipmunk Lane; Oviedo, FL 32765-8709; (H) 407-366-9237
ORVILLE A. (1917-2006)
NA
COOK, BETTY J.
No contact information available
JAMES F. (1925-1993)
NA
CREPS, JANE W.
EARL G., JR. (1922-2002)4
DAHLBERG, SONDRA L.
CHRISTIAN F. (1946-2007)6
ERVIN, DOROTHY
1500 Graham Way, Apt. 301; Mars, PA 16046; (H) 724-625-4135
WILLIAM E. (1929-2001)5
FINKENBINE, RUTH
Apartment 712; 841 California Avenue; Pittsburgh, PA 15202-2759; (H) 412-761-0367
RUSSELL (1921-1981)1
FRUTH, DOLORES H.
2400 Burgess Drive, #106; Zelienople, PA 16063-1577; (H) 724-452-3624
WILLIAM E. (1920-2004)1
GIBSON, ANN
1095 Pinellas Point Drive, S., Apt. 463; St. Petersburg, FL 33705-6389; (H) 727-842-9774
BRUCE A. (1932-2002)
HAEBERLE, FRANCES
6522 Brighton Road; Pittsburgh, PA 15202; (H) 412-761-2404
JOHN F. (1934-2013)2
HANKS, LEONA
Apartment 314; 8 Garden Center Drive; Greensburg, PA 15601-1368; (H) 724-837-0642
JOHN W. (1927-2001)4
97
Conference
NA
May, 2016
BULLETIN OF REPORTS
Name and Address
Widow or Widower of
HANNA, ELEANOR J.
Apartment 3017; 160 Marwood Road; Cabot, PA 16023-2247; (H) 724-352-2306
KAMAL J. (1923-2008)2
HANSON, EDWINA H.
Apartment 11; 620 Chestnut Street; Greensburg, PA 15601-4079
(H) 724-837-4790 (cell) 724-610-1270
T. PAINTER (1914-1981)4
HAUSELE, VIRGINIA
112 Marwood Road, #4225; Cabot, PA 16023
RAYMOND E. (1933-2015)2
HEIDE, SUSAN D.
8355 Whisper Trace Way, Unit 204; Naples, FL 34114-9469; (H) 239-793-1948
AUGUST W. (1931-1973)
HEYDE, MARVALENE
Apartment 3010, 103 Burgess Drive; Zelienople, PA 16063; (H) 724-452-2137
LUTHER A. (1921-1997)2
HOLLERTZ, ANN
570 Kingswood Lane; Springfield, OH 45503
WARREN R. (1927-2015)2
HOUSER, BARBARA W.
5003 Clifton Drive; Aliquippa, PA 15001; (H) 724-375-4011
J. RAY, JR. (1925-2008)1
KANE, ELIZABETH ANN
102 Westminster Drive; Pittsburgh, PA 15229; (H) 412-931-0526
PAUL J. (1943-2013)
KAPPELER, SHIRLEY S.
276 Norman Drive; Cranberry Township, PA 16066-4204; (H) 724-776-8276
EDWARD R. (1931-2005)2
KETTERER, JOAN S.
748 West Madison Circle; Pittsburgh, PA 15229-1211; (H) 412-367-2352
EUGENE E. (1933-1981)
NA
KURZ, JOAN
346 Breezy Drive; Wheeling, WV 26003; (H) 304-242-6108
WILLIAM H. (1928-2012)
NA
LONG, GENEVIEVE
6101 Stanton Avenue; Pittsburgh, PA 15206-2265; (H) 412-363-4688
PHILIP D. (1940-2000)
MAIER, ELMA
5 Genkinger Drive; Zelienople, PA 16063
PATRICK A. L. (1933-2011)2
MILLER, SANDY
141 Blacks Hill Road; Irwin, PA 15642-8003; (H) 724-354-2476
EDWARD M., JR. (1941-2001) 5
MOEHRING, JOREEN M.
Apartment 206; 101 Burgess Drive; Zelienople, PA 16063; (PRC) 724-452-2356
THEODORE F. (1923-2008)2
MULL, LINDA L.
1208 Tenth Avenue; Natrona Heights, PA 15065-1122; (H) 724-224-3866
R. LEE (1932-1998)
3
NAUMANN, JOAN G.
4235 Greenridge Road; Pittsburgh, PA 15234-1170; (H) 412-854-0656
EDWARD J. (1935-1994)
6
NEWELL, CAROL JEAN
EUGENE W. (1927-2004)
NA
ORR, JOAN
203 South Fifth Street; Youngwood, PA 15687-1213; (cell) 724-420-7864
THOMAS J. (1934-2010)
4
PITTAVINO, DOLORES R.
120 Skyline Drive; Smithton, PA 15479 (H) 724-872-8747
ROBERT G. (1923-2008)
5
PRICE, CAROL
1222 Fourth Street; Monongahela, PA 15063; (H) 724-258-9568
RICHARD F. (1930-2015)5
RAVENSTAHL, BARBARA A.
14 Bell Avenue; Pittsburgh, PA 15205; (H) 412-922-6055
HOWARD M. (1938-2011)
SAMPSELL NYE, JANE
190 Rote Hill Road; Sheffield, MA 01257; (H) 413-229-8136
PAUL H., JR. (1932-2001)1
SANDERS, SHIRLEY
3012 Wallace Street; Lower Burrell, PA 15068; (H) 724-334-1208
GERALD J., JR. (1953-2015)3
May, 2016
98
Conference
NA
1
3
5
BULLETIN OF REPORTS
Name and Address
Widow or Widower of
Conference
SCHNEIDMILLER, BARBARA 203 Janice Lane; Saxonburg, PA 16056
JOHN H. (1929-2011)2
SCHULTZ, MARY THERESA
THEODORE E. (1917-1999)2
SCHWEITZER WALLIS, MARY V.
16108 Little Cooley Road; Townville, PA 16360; (H) 814-967-2505
GLENN C. (1930-1975)2
SOUDERS, CHRISTIE
10534 Abbey Lane; Wexford, PA 15090-7393; (H) 924-935-2536
HARRY G. (1942-2015)2
STEINER, JOYCE
906 Woodbrier; Sautee Nacoochee, GA 30571; (H) 706-878-5062
WILLIAM G. (1928-2003)
SWIDZINSKI MAYS, CAROL
105 Windsong Lane; Taylorsville, NC 28681; (H) 724-282-7537
LARRY (1950-2003)2
UPTON, JEAN B.
3628 Sunset Drive; Munhall, PA 15120-3038; (H) 412-461-4958
WARREN E. (1925-1994)5
VOIGT, KARL E.
1669 Galeton Drive; Verona, PA 15147-2826; (H) 412-793-4619
CHARLOTTE E. (1935-2003)1
von HEFTY, CATALINA
Avenida Nazca 2538, PB “C”; 1417 Buenos Aires; ARGENTINA; (H) 011-541-14-503-3736
LESLIE S. (1930-1993)
von WALDOW, BRIGITTE H.
H. EBERHARD (1923-2007)
WOOD, PATRICIA K.
13113 South Wildwood Lane; Anacortes, WA 98221
360-293-2034 (work number of son-in-law, Jay Smith)
CLIFFORD E. (1926-1994)
NA
NA
2
NA
LOCAL ECUMENICAL FULL COMMUNION PARTNERS
The Episcopal Diocese of Pittsburgh
The Episcopal Church, U.S.A.
Bishop Dorsey McConnell
325 Oliver Avenue, Suite 300; Pittsburgh, PA 15222
(Phone) 412-721-0853 (Fax) 412-347-5756
Contact: Judith J. Rogers, Executive Assistant
Western Pennsylvania Conference
The United Methodist Church
The Rev. Bishop Thomas Bickerton
P. O. Box 5002
Cranberry Township, PA 16066-0002
(Phone) 724-776-1499 (Fax) 724-776-1683
Contact: Tina Wilson, Executive Secretary
Beaver-Butler Presbytery
Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.)
The Rev. Alan G. Adams
P. O. Box 279
Zelienople, PA 16063-0279
(Phone) 724-452-7515 (Fax) 724-452-7522
Contact: Barbara Paff, Secretary
Presbytery of Kiskiminetas
The Rev. Dr. Donald Wilson
P. O. Box 339
Yatesboro, PA 16263-0339
(Phone) 724-783-7196 (Fax) 724-783-7198
Contact: Holly Wadding, Administrative Assistant
Pittsburgh Presbytery
The Rev. Dr. Sheldon Sorge
901 Allegheny Avenue
Pittsburgh, PA 15233-1701
(Phone) 412-323-1400, ext. 315 (Fax) 412-323-2256
Contact: Cathy Nelson, Executive Assistant
Presbytery of Redstone
The Rev. Richard Noftzger, Jr. Executive Presbyter/Stated Clerk
1004 Mt. Pleasant Road
Greensburg, PA 15601-5762
(Phone) 724-837-6737 (Fax) 724-837-4112
Contact: Bobbie Martin, Office Administrator
Washington Presbytery
The Rev. Craig Kephart
P. O. Box 146; 89 Lively Road
Eighty Four, PA 15330-0146
(Phone) 724-222-1500 (Fax) 724-222-7420
Penn West Conference
United Church of Christ
The Rev. David Ackerman, Conference Minister
320 South Maple Avenue
Greensburg, PA 15601-3219
(Phone) 724-834-0344 (Fax) 724-834-0324
Contact: Diane Fox, Administrative Assistant/Bookkeeper
99
May, 2016
BULLETIN OF REPORTS
ORDINATIONS (since June, 2015)
June 12, 2015: The Rev. Beth A. Hawk was ordained in the Passavant Center of Thiel College in Greenville,
Pennsylvania with a call as Pastor of Crooked Creek Cooperative Lutheran Ministries: Bethel Lutheran Church, Ford
City, Pennsylvania.; United Rockville Lutheran Church, Ford City, Pennsylvania; St. Michael’s Lutheran Church, Ford
City, Pennsylvania.
November 8, 2015: The Rev. Christine A. Rotella was ordained in St. Andrew Lutheran Church, Pittsburgh (Shadyside),
Pennsylvania, with a call as Mission Developer of Abiding Ministries, a Synodically Authorized Worshiping Community.
January 22, 2016: The Rev. Sarah R. Rossing was ordained in the Augustana Chapel of the Lutheran School of Theology
at Chicago, Chicago, Illinois with a call as Pastor of St. James Lutheran Church, Youngstown, Pennsylvania.
CONSECRATIONS (since June, 2015)
None.
INSTALLATIONS OF ROSTERED PERSONS
September 13, 2015: The Rev. Robert J. Zimmerman was installed as pastor of St. John Lutheran Church, Mars,
Pennsylvania.
November 7, 2015: The Rev. Susan A. G. Irons was installed as pastor of Rehoboth Lutheran Church, Baden, Pennsylvania.
November 14, 2015: The Rev. Timothy M. Dawes was installed as pastor of the Mid Mon Valley Lutheran Parish: Lynnwood
Lutheran Church, Belle Vernon, Pennsylvania; St. Paul’s Lutheran Church, Monessen, Pennsylvania; Grace Lutheran
Church, Monongahela, Pennsylvania; Hope Memorial Lutheran Church, Smithton, Pennsylvania; and Christ Lutheran
Church, West Newton, Pennsylvania.
November 29, 2015: The Rev. Jonathan J. (J.J.) Lynn was installed as pastor of Emmanuel Lutheran Church, Pittsburgh
(Etna), Pennsylvania and First English Lutheran Church, Pittsburgh (Sharpsburg), Pennsylvania.
February 28, 2016: The Rev. Paul L. Lubold was installed as pastor of Christ Lutheran Church, Pittsburgh (Millvale),
Pennsylvania.
April 17, 2016: The Rev. Sarah R. Rossing was installed as pastor of St. James Lutheran Church, Youngstown,
Pennsylvania.
April 24, 2016: The Rev. Jennifer L. Fuhr was installed as pastor of Trinity Lutheran Church, Wexford, Pennsylvania.
ROSTERED PERSONS REMOVED FROM THE ROLL OF THE SYNOD
Those who have left the synod (since June, 2015)
June 15, 2015: The Rev. Kevin L. Mackey transferred to the West Virginia-Western Maryland Synod.
June 30, 2015: Associate in Ministry J.Jeannine Sanford resigned from the roster of the ELCA.
July 9, 2015: The Rev. Gary F. Koch, Sr. transferred to the Northeastern Pennsylvania Synod.
September 12, 2015: The Rev. Kirsi I. Stjerna transferred to the Grand Canyon Synod.
September 27, 2015: The Rev. Marleen E. Griffith-Stull transferred to the Lower Susquehanna Synod.
November 1, 2015: The Rev. Andrew M. Wahl resigned from the roster of the ELCA.
December 15, 2015: The Rev. Paul N. Frank, Jr. transferred to the Lower Susquehanna Synod.
Removed because of death (since June, 2015)
September 11, 2015: The Rev. Raymond E. Hausele
November 23, 2015: The Rev. Gerald J. Sanders, Jr.
100
BULLETIN OF REPORTS
OPENING OF A SYNOD ASSEMBLY
The assembly stands.
The leader begins the dialogue, and the assembly responds.
L As in one body we have many members,
C so we, who are many, are one body in Christ.
L Where two or three are gathered in my name, says the Lord,
C I am there among them.
L Live a life worthy of the calling to which you have been called,
with all humility and gentleness, making every effort to maintain the
unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace.
C Let us pursue what makes for justice and peace, and for mutual upbuilding.
L The Lord be with you.
C And also with you.
L Let us pray.
O God, you open the hearts of your faithful people by sending into us the light
of your Holy Spirit. Direct us by the light of that Spirit, that we may have a right
judgment in all things and rejoice at all times in your peace; through Jesus
Christ, your Son and our Lord.
CAmen.
L I declare this assembly to be in session in the name of the Father, and of the
Son, and of the Holy Spirit.
CAmen.
A hymn may be sung.
Used by permission of Augsburg Fortress Liturgies Annual License #26189. All rights reserved.
101
BULLETIN OF REPORTS
102
BULLETIN OF REPORTS
ELCA REPRESENTATIVE
MS. DANA DUTCHER
MANAGER FOR RELATIONSHIPS, ASIA PACIFIC AND MADAGASCAR,
WEST AND CENTRAL AFRICA, GLOBAL MISSION UNIT,
EVANGELICAL LUTHERAN CHURCH IN AMERICA
Dana Dutcher is the Manager for Relationships for the Companion Synod Program of the Evangelical Lutheran
Church in America. Dana’s portfolio covers the Asia Pacific region, as well as Madagascar, West and Central Africa and
she remains firmly planted in both contexts and cultures within her work.
Dana received her Bachelors of Science degree from Valparaiso University in International Business, and minors
in Chinese language and Urban Studies. During college she studied abroad in China and developed a deep passion
and sense of calling for international and cross cultural ministry, which led her to serve through ELCA Global Mission in
Tokyo, Japan for three years upon her graduation.
Prior to her current position with the ELCA, Dana was employed by a direct service non-profit agency in Chicago, IL
working to address the needs of the community and identifying root causes while educating youth in the city as to how
they can change their immediate environment.
103
BULLETIN OF REPORTS
REPORT OF THE PRESIDING BISHOP, EVANGELICAL LUTHERAN CHURCH IN AMERICA
Spring 2016
“For God so loved the world that he gave his only Son, so that everyone who believes in him may not perish but
may have eternal life.”– John 3:16
Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ,
John 3:16, perhaps one of the most quoted passages in the New Testament, hangs on bed sheets in football
stadiums; it is almost ubiquitous. It is also true. If God so loves the world, we should too. Lutherans show up – as
Evangelical Lutheran Church in America (ELCA) and as The Lutheran World Federation (LWF).
We are church for the sake of the world.
In our congregations we address hunger and poverty through food pantries and community gardens, in health
care clinics and job training programs. We foster unity among the children of God in relationship with our ecumenical
and inter-religious partners. Together, with our companions in Central America, we are working with unaccompanied
minors and the conditions in their countries of origin that force these children to flee. Through LWF, we support Syrian
refugees in Jordan who are living in Za’atari camp, provide education and child protection assistance to Sudanese
refugees, and offer specialty care at the Augusta Victoria Hospital for Palestinians.
We have surpassed our fundraising commitment to eradicate malaria and bring about lasting change. Always Being
Made New: The Campaign for the ELCA will emphasize ELCA World Hunger this year to support our comprehensive
approach to solve challenges that perpetuate hunger and poverty. All of this good and hard, sometimes dangerous,
work is the work we are able to do because we are church abiding in Christ – God’s beloved people gathered around
word and sacrament.
In preparation for the 500th anniversary observance of the Reformation, I encourage you to visit ELCA500.org
for more information and resources. One of the featured events for the 500th anniversary is the Grace Gathering in
conjunction with the 2016 ELCA Churchwide Assembly. Come experience a churchwide assembly, be centered in God’s
word, participate in experiential learning, hear Nobel Peace Prize winner Leymah Gbowee, attend workshops to equip
you in observing the 500th anniversary in your local ministry setting and much more! You can register today at ELCA.
org/GraceGathering.
On September 11, our country will be remembering the lives lost and the lives forever changed by the tragic events
15 years ago. The events affected all of us, and it will be an important moment for us to be together as a church and
with all people of faith. Part of our “God’s work. Our hands.” Sunday on September 11 is a chance for us to show up
as Lutherans, freed and renewed in Christ, to serve and love our neighbor.
As we gather in our assemblies, let us be a faithful witness to God’s work in our local communities, across the
country and around the world. I am hopeful that our time together in assembly will be an opportunity for us to get to
know each other and come together as a church. This is a good time for us to talk about the priorities and future
directions of the ELCA.
I will be leading a process endorsed by the ELCA Church Council and the Conference of Bishops to discern in faith
the future of the ELCA. Through an initiative titled Called Forward Together in Christ, we’ll be assessing where we are as
God’s people and working to understand what God has in store for us. I am inviting you to take part in a conversation
about the future of this church. For more information or to get involved, visit ELCA.org/future.
Thank you for your continued prayers and encouragement. As I am out and about in my travels, I am reminded
that no one of us does God’s work alone, and I am grateful for the opportunity to be a partner with you in that service.
Thank you for your leadership in the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America.
God’s blessings to you as you gather as the living body of Christ. May you be guided by the Spirit as you do God’s
will for God’s people.
With gratitude,
Elizabeth A. Eaton, Presiding Bishop
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REPORTS OF THE SYNOD OFFICERS AND STAFF
REPORT OF THE BISHOP
Think of us in this way;
as servants of Christ
and stewards of God’s mysteries.
(I Corinthians 4:1, NRSV)
This year we take up as our theme for Synod Assembly the second part of our three-part priority statement: “Belonging
to each other in Christ Jesus, we steward the Gospel and care for our neighbors.” Stewardship of the Gospel is not a
new thing that we are beginning to do together this year, of course, but it is a helpful way of making sense out of our
identity and work as a synod.
We do not own the Gospel. It is not our possession in that sense of the word. The Gospel belongs to God; it is God’s
story, entrusted to our stewardship, both for our own benefit and for us to communicate in a faithful way to the world.
What is the Gospel? It is the mystery of God. We must always begin to speak of the Gospel with reverence and
awe. The Gospel is the story (or the good news) of God’s love for a rebellious world. That love is seen most clearly
in the incarnation of our Lord Jesus, in which event God already embraced the very world that had rejected its creator.
The life and ministry of God-incarnate was remarkable – a mystery! It was a life-event of teaching about God by using
parables: curious views of human life and relationships. It was a life-event of healing physical and spiritual maladies. It
was a life-event of self-giving love that we can see most clearly in the Upper Room, at Gethsemane, in the Praetorium,
and on Golgotha. It continues to be a life-event that has not been ended by death, but that lives out beyond death in a
way that has destroyed the power of death to define our existence. One small piece of the Gospel is the personal joy
each of us receives, in the forgiveness of sins and the gift of life and salvation, but the mystery of the Gospel is much
larger than that one piece alone. Of this mystery we are called to be stewards.
So what’s a steward? A steward is someone who has been entrusted with the care of another person’s property.
We can immediately understand the responsibility of taking care of a neighbor’s pet or house while they are on vacation.
We can imagine the responsibility of tending an historic institution as its president for a chapter of its history. The idea
of a financial trust is not foreign to us; many of us at some point or another are responsible for money or property that
belongs to another. But how in the world can anyone steward love?
This is the great task and challenge of the Church – to tend the mystery of God’s love for a rebellious world, while
still living as part of that world! To do this, the Church is required to be something it can never be: to be as selfless
as Jesus, who gave himself up to death for his friends and his enemies alike. So, the Church has, most of the time,
concentrated on the proclamation of the Gospel as the best means of stewardship we can sustain to any degree.
To this end, our congregations hold public worship weekly, declaring in liturgy and in hymnody and in word and in
sacraments the mystery of God’s love known most clearly in the person and work of our Lord Jesus. Our congregations
also steward the mystery of God’s Gospel in specific acts of care for our neighbors; in fact the two are hardly separable
one from the other, even if they will stand alone as distinct themes for our assemblies one year after the next.
Our congregations and other ministry sites experience a wide range of results from this shared work: in some
places our congregations are growing in numbers and in spiritual depth. In other places our congregations are declining
in these same ways. This is not unexpected, as our Lord Jesus experienced both widespread affirmation and strong
rejection personally. But it is a concern that my staff and I work on constantly, striving to make our stewardship of the
Gospel in every ministry site as faithful as it can be. I am grateful for the tireless work of the people of our synod in all
of their vocations, especially those who have answered the call to lead congregations and other ministry sites, either
as volunteers, elected officers, or in the public vocation of ministry. I continue to be uplifted by the depth of joy in the
Gospel that I see: God’s love has touched many lives in so profound a way that only the word “salvation” can adequately
describe the effect.
But the truth is that very large portions of the communities in which we live and work have not heard the Gospel in
a way that sounds like love. What are the obstacles? One significant obstacle is the divided Church, manifest in faith
traditions that are not in communion with each other and in congregations that tend their own history and building more
fervently than they steward the Gospel. Both of these examples are illustrations of what I wrote above, that the Church
is asked to be something impossible – to be self-giving while still being part of a rebellious world that seeks its own life
first and foremost. But we’re working on these things together. We continue to exercise the full-communion relationships
that we do have and are working toward a joint commemoration of the 500th anniversary of the Reformation with the
Catholic Church by which we will strive again to bear unified witness to Christ, God’s Gospel of Love incarnate.
My staff and I are also rather consistently helping to guide congregations toward collaborative or cooperative ventures.
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The point of this work is to provide sustainable structures by which the people of God can be good stewards of the Gospel
in the time and place we have been given to do so. We have created a vision statement that has become useful to us
in this work: People and Places Sharing Jesus with Grace. In a nutshell, that’s what we’re striving for in this synod.
My pastoral assistants, Pastor Sarah Lee-Faulkner and Pastor Ed Sheehan, work most closely with me in the pastoral
care of our ministerium and our ministry sites. Our Director for Evangelical Mission, Pastor Blair Morgan, supplements
that work with program ministry in stewardship and evangelism; and the director of our Synod Resource Center, Associate
in Ministry Beth Caywood, further contributes to our care with published and people resources. These rostered leaders
are invaluable to our shared work, and I appreciate their partnership very much.
I am grateful for the presence of Patty Davidson in our office, who coordinates a shared venture with Lutheran
SeniorLife that provides Health and Wellness ministry in our synod. Ryan Ebner has just begun to use space in our office
as well in his new role as the Gift Planner for the three synods in Western Pennsylvania and West Virginia, a ministry
venture with the ELCA Foundation.
Our Synod Staff remains faithful in providing the great variety of support that makes so much of our work together
possible: Administrative Assistants Carol Ruckert and Gloria Knezovich, our Accountant Bob Cairns, and my Executive
Assistant, Sandy DeLorenze. For the tireless work of these faithful servants I remain extraordinarily grateful.
Our Synod Council continues to accept greater measures of responsibility for our shared work, which I continue to
encourage. Thanks are due to our Vice President, Brandon James, our Secretary, Jeannette Christensen, and to Tom
Beecher, who continues to serve as our Treasurer more than a year past the time when we had planned to appoint his
replacement.
Each of these people, along with our whole synod together, is a steward of the Gospel. I remain truly blessed to
serve as your bishop, and trust that together we will strive to be trustworthy stewards of the mysteries of God.
With you in Christ,
+Kurt F. Kusserow, Bishop
REPORT OF THE ASSISTANTS TO THE BISHOP
WE STEWARD THE GOSPEL
In our synod priorities, what does it mean to steward the gospel? In order to answer this question, gospel first must
be defined. As avid googlers, turning to the trusted search engine is an easy step. The definition of gospel is:
noun
1. the teachings of Jesus and the apostles; the Christian revelation.
2. something regarded as true and implicitly believed:
3. glad tidings, especially concerning salvation and the kingdom of God as announced to the world by Christ.
4. (often initial capital letter) Ecclesiastical. an extract from one of the four Gospels, forming part of the Eucharistic
service in certain churches. (http://dictionary.reference.com/browse/gospel)
As assistants to the bishop, we have the privilege of stewarding the gospel in each of its definitions.
1. Gospel- the teachings of Jesus and the apostles; the Christian revelation
“Jesus went throughout Galilee, teaching in their synagogues and proclaiming the good news of the kingdom
and curing every disease and every sickness among the people.” (Matthew 4:23)
We are privileged that we are called to share the Christian revelation and teachings of Christ with congregations. As
assistants, we do not have the opportunity to regularly share the teachings of Jesus through Sunday School, confirmation,
or Bible studies, and we miss those times. If a pastor, lay rostered leader, or teacher is on vacation, we would love the
opportunity to teach instead of having a class canceled. This would allow us to do something we love while building
relationships with members of our synod. In 2016, we have spent more time in deliberate Bible study in our staff meetings.
Our discernment and deliberations in staff meetings goes much better when they are grounded in the Word. Moving
forward, we will bring this to meetings in congregations that we attend, including council and call committee meetings.
We will be starting each meeting in a short study of scripture pertaining to the subject at hand.
Reflecting on Matthew 4:23, while we go throughout our territory of Southwestern Pennsylvania teaching in
congregations and proclaiming the good news, we do not spend as much time “curing any disease or sickness among
the people” (much less EVERY disease and sickness). Although neither of us claims to have the spiritual gift of healing,
we do focus on prayer and conversation with the ultimate healer. Weekly, we hear the needs and wants of congregations
and individuals. When we tell you that we are praying for you, we are. We lift up prayers privately, in staff meetings, and
when requested in our office chapel worship. Three times a year we spend a day praying for each rostered leader and
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congregation in more detail. Thank you for praying for us. We treasure and need those prayers.
2. Gospel – something regarded as true and implicitly believed.
“Pilate asked Jesus, ‘What is truth?’” (John 18:38)
That has been the human question since the beginning of history – what is the truth. We seek the truth in so many
settings, and our wonderings come out in so many everyday phrases. What’s the scientific truth? Can we regulate truth
in advertising? What’s the true meaning of Christmas? Who’s telling the truth in the current political environment? What
does true love imply? What’s the truth of the matter?
The truth is, we all have “truths” that form the basis of our lives – our assumptions about the nature of reality, what
is the meaning of our existence, how should we act with one another, who am I, really, underneath my public persona.
There are all kinds of “truths” out there that clamor for our attention, claiming to be the truth among all the other realities
and beliefs about existence. What is the “gospel truth”?
As followers of Jesus the Christ, we believe that Jesus is THE truth, amidst all the other truths out there. The gospel
message of Jesus, his life and words and actions, his death and resurrection, his promise to be among us, even until
the end of time, and beyond, is the fundamental truth that we believe and proclaim. The Gospel is the truth on which
we base our lives.
The truth of the Gospel has always been countercultural. It has been revealed to us as Christians, and it is our task
to steward the gospel by holding fast to it, and living by it, and proclaiming it, in a world that so often is driven by power
and prestige and greed and self-centeredness. In a time when anger and despair seem so prevalent, we are called to
speak words of compassion and hope. The words come not from ourselves, but from God’s Spirit. “When the Spirit of
truth comes, he will guide you into all the truth.” (John 16:13)
Our work as Assistants involves a wide range of settings - Call Committees and Councils, pericope studies with
pastors, one-on-one discussions, board meetings of Social Ministry Organizations (SMOs), synodwide workshops and
events, meetings at the regional and churchwide level. In all these places, we seek to witness to the truth of the gospel.
We also seek to speak a word of truth to congregations and pastors as we discuss the realities of their own situations.
These are challenging times, and our goal is to be honest and respectful as we talk about our common mission to share
the gospel in our communities and neighborhoods.
The world is yearning to hear the truth, the “gospel truth,” the truth that lies behind all other truths. How can we share
that truth, the gospel, in this time and place? That is the challenge before us.
3. Gospel – glad tidings, especially concerning salvation and the kingdom of God as announced to the
world by Jesus Christ.
“Jesus said to the crowds, ‘I must proclaim the good news of the kingdom of God to the other cities also;
for I was sent for this purpose.’” (Luke 4:43)
“Glad Tidings.” How that simple phrase summarizes so much of what we are about. “Tidings” is something that we
have experienced or received that is going out to all around me. “Glad” is the content – it is GOOD news, which we all
share with joy in our hearts.
So our work as assistants includes words and actions of encouragement and hope to those with whom we relate.
We strive to assist congregations to grow as places of welcome, in a world where so many seek to build walls to keep
out those considered to be “other.”
We relate to the boards of the many Social Ministry Organizations in the synod. Between them, Lutheran agencies
and organizations offer services literally from birth to death. An adoption agency, camps for children, care for youth
troubled by emotional turmoil, campus ministry, colleges and seminaries, counseling for individuals and families, meals
on wheels for the elderly, shelter for the homeless, many forms of services and housing and elder care for seniors – all
these in the name of Jesus Christ.
We work with others in the synod on national and global concerns – local and world hunger, disaster response,
relations with our companion synod in Madagascar, immigration, and a host of others. And we partner with our ecumenical
neighbors in common ministries.
Glad Tidings – the world needs to hear them, and see them, and know them.
4. Gospel- (often initial capital letter) Ecclesiastical. an extract from one of the four Gospels, forming part
of the Eucharistic service in certain churches.
“The Gospel of the Lord- Praise to you, O Christ.”
On Sunday mornings, it is humbling to read from Matthew, Mark, Luke, or John and proclaim “The Gospel of the
Lord.” It is indeed a privilege to worship in different congregations each week, to be welcomed into the community, and
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to share the Gospel - a selection of Christ’s story. The three-year cycle of the Revised Common Lectionary gives the
opportunity to hear the Gospel from all four books and guides those of us preaching to not just preach on our favorite
parts of scripture but to embrace the fullness of Jesus’ life and teachings. If you have not seen us at worship in a while,
please encourage your pastor, council president or council to invite us. We want to worship with you.
Rostered Leaders throughout the synod have the occasion to gather weekly to study the Gospel and other texts for
the following Sunday. We are truly blessed to be in a compact synod where no one has to drive more than 45 minutes to
attend such gatherings (compared to some synods where a plane is necessary to meet with colleagues). As assistants,
we regularly meet with different pericope studies to share what is happening in the synod, listen to what is happening
in the clusters and congregations, support one another, pray, and study God’s word. Thank you to the rostered leaders
and lay worship leaders who make this a priority in busy lives. It makes a difference in our life together and in the
proclamation of the Gospel.
This year we, as assistants to the Bishop, have begun to install new rostered leaders. This strengthens our relationship
to the whole congregation, which was started during the vacancy and through the call process. We want your new
rostered leader to succeed, and we pray for long and fruitful ministries with congregations. The excitement and hope
evident in installation services is a joy.
Our work as assistants is wide-ranging, sometimes difficult, sometimes joyful, often intense. We are blessed to be a
part of the life of the congregations and pastors and organizations of the synod. We pray that as we go about our work,
we too may faithfully Steward the Gospel.
Respectfully submitted,
The Rev. Sarah M. Lee-Faulkner, Assistant to the Bishop
The Rev. Edward F. Sheehan, Assistant to the Bishop
REPORT OF THE VICE PRESIDENT
My constitutionally mandated duties are to chair the meetings of the Synod Council and serve on the Executive
Committee. I serve on the Region Eight Coordinating Committee, the Assembly Planning Committee, and the Budget
and Finance Committee. I have enjoyed getting to visit different congregations as the Synod Representative to conduct
pastoral call votes, which I do several times a year. Serving as Synod Vice President is rewarding and brings joy to my life.
The Synod Council is composed of the four officers of the Synod and nineteen representatives of our districts. We
will have met six times since the 2015 Synod Assembly. The actions taken by the Council can be found elsewhere in
this Bulletin of Reports and in the supplemental materials made available to the voting members of the assembly.
A highlight for me this year was the Council Workshop held this February. It was exciting to see over 115 leaders
of our Synod from 30 congregations gathered to learn about each other and investigate ways to handle the day to day
problems of our congregations. As our Bishop stated: "We are not alone." We must seek new ways to operate cooperatively
as we move into the future.
My report would not be complete without a stewardship plug. It is important that we share with others Christ's call
to share our gifts of time, talents, and money.
I encourage all members to make an effort to know about the many missions of our congregations, our Synod and the
ELCA. I am constantly amazed at what actions are being taken at every level and what mission is being accomplished.
It is important for us, as Lutherans, to fully understand the interdependence between the national church, the synod and
the congregations. There is much for which we can be thankful.
God's work, our hands!
Brandon James, Synod Vice President
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REPORT OF THE SECRETARY
We are Stewards of the Gospel
Like good stewards of the manifold grace of God, serve one another with whatever gift each of you has received.
(1 Peter 4:10)
Following the 2015 Synod Assembly a report of the actions of the assembly was sent to the ELCA; and those
persons elected as Voting Members to the 2016 Churchwide Assembly were registered with the ELCA. Reports of
assembly actions and of those elected by the assembly were prepared for the ECHO and posted on the synod website.
Communications were sent to those persons elected at the assembly, to CEOs of agencies and institutions, and to those
persons nominated for a position but not elected.
For each meeting of the Synod Council and the Synod Council Executive Committee, agendas were prepared and
reports and documents gathered and distributed to members in advance of the meetings via email. Minutes of each
of these meetings were recorded and distributed. The Synod Council met five times from the time of the 2015 Synod
Assembly to the time of this report (June 13, July 23, October 10, January 16, March 12) The Executive Committee met
six times (July 9, September 25, November 4 (by teleconference), January 4, February 26, April 28). Following each of
these meetings correspondence and other materials were prepared and distributed based on the actions and directives of
the Synod Council and/or the Executive Committee. The Report of the Synod Council which includes Recommendations
to the Synod Assembly was prepared and is included in the Bulletin of Reports. Actions of the Synod Council from its
scheduled May 7 meeting will be reported in a Supplemental Report.
The 2016 Bulletin of Reports (BOR) was prepared with the able assistance of Ms. Sandy DeLorenze. The BOR will
be sent via email to rostered leaders and congregations and will be placed on the synod’s website. Printed copies of
the BOR will be distributed to voting members at the Pre-Assembly Conference meetings. As the Proceedings Book is
no longer professionally printed, items that were previously included therein (e.g., Minutes of the Synod Assembly, the
Synod’s Constitution and Bylaws, Compensation Guidelines) are included in the Bulletin of Reports.
The number of congregations in our synod is now 171. During the past year St. John’s, Glassport closed, and
Christ Rupp, Kittanning voted to leave the ELCA. Currently 38 congregations in our synod (22%) are served by interim
pastors, and 15 congregations (9%) are served with less than full-time pastoral ministry; those congregations are listed
in Appendix A. The 44 congregations that share pastoral ministry (26%) are listed in Appendix B. Clergy and Lay Roster
statistics of our synod are shown in Appendix C.
The Necrology Report of the synod follows this report and its Appendices.
I give thanks to God for the faithful leadership of Bishop Kusserow, for the dedicated work of his assistants and staff,
and for the members of the Synod Council and so many others who share their time and gifts with the synod.
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APPENDIX A
as of April 15, 2016
Congregations Served by Interim Pastors
Congregations with Less than Full-time
Pastoral Ministry
Ambridge, Zion's First
Conference 1
Monaca, Redeemer
Pittsburgh (Avalon), Trinity
New Brighton, Trinity
Lancaster Township, St. John's Stone
North Park (Allison Park), St. Paul's
Allison Park, Nativity
Pittsburgh (West View), St. Luke's
Zelienople, St. Paul
West Sunbury, Rider
Ford City, Bethel (CCCLM)
Ford City, St. Michael's Brick (CCCLM)
Leechburg, Hebron
Natrona Heights, Faith
(Synodically Authorized Minister)
Ford City, United Rockville (CCCLM)
Vandergrift, St. Paul's Highfield
Ford City, Emmanuel
Worthington, Evangelical
New Castle, St. John's
Conference 2
Conference 3
Conference 4
Arnold, Calvary
Pittsburgh (Morningside), Messiah
Blairsville, Hebron
Latrobe (Stahlstown), Bethel
Pittsburgh (Eastmont), Emmanuel
Derry, Trinity
Ligonier (Darlington), St. Paul's
Pittsburgh (Forest Hills), Hope
Jeannette, Holy Trinity
Verona (Penn Hills), Apostles
Verona, Trinity
Jeannette, St. Mark's
Youngwood, St. Luke's
Conference 5
Charleroi, Christ
Greenock, Peace
Homestead, St. John Mark
Irwin, Paintertown
Irwin, Brush Creek
McKeesport, St. John's
Irwin, Immanuel
Mount Pleasant, Good Shepherd
Mount Pleasant, St. John's
North Huntingdon, Our Saviour's
Pittsburgh (Hazelwood), St. Paul's
Wilmerding, Holy Angels
Conference 6
Bethel Park, Bethany
Pittsburgh (Carrick), Redeemer
Crescent, Grace
Pittsburgh (Carrick), Stewart Avenue
Pittsburgh (Baldwin Boro), North Zion
Pittsburgh (Castle Shannon), Emmanuel
Pittsburgh (Beechview), Holy Trinity
Pittsburgh (Crafton), St. Matthew's
Pittsburgh (Bower Hill), Good Shepherd
Pittsburgh (South Park), Grace
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McKees Rocks, Good Shepherd
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APPENDIX B
CONGREGATIONS SERVED BY A SHARED MINISTRY
as of April 1, 2016
Conference
1
1
1
2
2
2
3
4
3
3
3
3
4
4
4
5
5
5
5
6
Congregation and Location
Aliquippa, Faith
Monaca, Van Kirk
Ambridge, Our Savior’s
Baden, Christ
Beaver, Holy Trinity
Beaver (Brighton Township), Hope
Pittsburgh (Etna), Emmanuel
Pittsburgh (Sharpsburg), First English
Connoquenessing, St. John’s
Prospect, Emmanuel
Pittsburgh (Laurel Gardens), Faith
Pittsburgh (Ross Township), Christ
Apollo, Spring Church
Saltsburg, Sons of Zebedee
Ford City, Bethel
Ford City, St. Michael’s Brick
Ford City, United Rockville
Ford City, St. John’s
Manorville, Grace
East Carnegie, St. Andrew
Pittsburgh (East Liberty), East Liberty
Springdale, St. Mark’s
Verona, Trinity
Derry, Trinity
Ligonier (Darlington), St. Paul
Hunker, St. Matthew
New Stanton, St. Mark
Carmichaels, St. Paul’s
Masontown, Jacob’s
Belle Vernon, Lynnwood
Monessen, St. Paul’s
Monongahela, Grace
Smithton, Hope Memorial
West Newton, Christ
Duquesne, Christ
Munhall, Messiah
Connellsville, St. John’s
Scottdale, St. Paul’s
Canonsburg, St. Paul’s
Coraopolis, Zion
Oakdale, Resurrection
Pittsburgh (Dormont), Bethany
Pittsburgh (Mt. Oliver), Trinity
Pittsburgh (Sheraden), Trinity
Shared Ministry Partners and/or Parish Name
Center Township Lutheran Parish
Christ-Our Savior’s Lutheran Parish
The Beaver & Brighton Township Lutheran Parish
Crooked Creek Cooperative Lutheran Ministries
(CCCLM)
Pittsburgh Lutheran United Ministries (PLUM)
Good News Lutheran Parish
Hatfield Ferry Lutheran Parish
Mid-Mon Valley Lutheran Parish (MMVLP)
APPENDIX C
CLERGY AND LAY ROSTER STATISTICS
As of May 8, 2016
Ordained Pastors
Total
Parish
232
101
Special
Ministries
18
OLFC
9
Deaconesses
2
Diaconal Ministers
4
1
2
1
Associates in Ministry
10
3
3
1
Synodically Authorized Ministers
1
Congregations
Continuing
Disability
4
Retired
100
2
171
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THE REVEREND RAYMOND E. HAUSELE
February 8, 1933 - September 11, 2015
The Reverend Raymond E. Hausele, a retired pastor of the Southwestern Pennsylvania Synod, died on September
11, 2015.
Pastor Hausele was born on February 8, 1933, in Mt. Pleasant Township, Pennsylvania. He was the son of Daniel
M. and Matilda Heide Hausele. He graduated from Thiel College, Greenville, Pennsylvania, in 1955, with a B.A. Pastor
Hausele received a B.D. from Northwestern Seminary in 1959.
Pastor Hausele was ordained by the Pittsburgh Synod at Thiel College in Greenville, Pennsylvania on June 3, 1959.
Pastor Hausele served the following calls during his ministry:
Resurrection Lutheran Church, West Deer Township, PA
1959-1962
St. Mark’s Lutheran Church, Jeannette, PA
1962-1969
Donegal Lutheran Parish: Bethel Lutheran Church, Westmoreland Cty., and Mt. Zion Lutheran Church, Donegal
1969-1974
First Lutheran Church, Vandergrift, PA
1974-1989
Bethel Lutheran Church, Ford City, PA
1992-2003
Retired
April 1, 2003
A memorial service for Pastor Hausele was held on Tuesday, September 15, 2015 at St. Paul’s Lutheran Church, 108
Dutch Hill Road; Latrobe (Trauger), Pennsylvania. Bishop Kurt Kusserow presided, and Pastor Mark Werner preached.
Pastor Hausele is survived by his wife, Virginia, his son, Raymond E., Jr., and his daughters, Nancy Lee (Klein) and
Carol Ann (Ferens).
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THE REVEREND GERALD J. SANDERS, JR.
December 2, 1953 - November 23, 2015
The Reverend Gerald J. Sanders, Jr., a pastor of the Southwestern Pennsylvania Synod, died on November 23,
2015.
Pastor Sanders was born on December 2, 1953, in Oakland, Maryland. He was the son of Gerald J. Sanders, Sr.,
and Wilda Durst Sanders. He graduated from Frostburg State College, Frostburg, Maryland, in 1975, with a B.S. Degree. Pastor Sanders received an M. Div. from the Lutheran Theological Seminary at Philadelphia in 1981.
Pastor Sanders was ordained by the West Virginia-Western Maryland Synod at Thiel College in Greenville, Pennsylvania on June 13, 1981.
Pastor Sanders served the following calls during his ministry:
Spring Church Evangelical Lutheran Church, Apollo, PA
St. John’s Lutheran Church, Warren, PA
Faith Lutheran Church, Natrona Heights, PA
Presbyterian SeniorCare, Oakmont, PA
Director of Pastoral Care
1981-1988
1988-1991
1992-1999
1999-present
Pastor Sanders also was very active and faithful in serving as a pulpit supply pastor in vacant congregations, presiding at worship and preaching.
A memorial service for Pastor Sanders was held on Saturday, December 5, 2015 at Spring Church Evangelical
Lutheran Church, 3623 Lutheran Church Road, Apollo, PA 15613. Bishop Kurt Kusserow preached and presided.
Pastor Sanders is survived by his wife, Shirley; and by his son, Joel.
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REPORT OF THE TREASURER
The Year in Review
The 2015 fiscal year for the SW PA Synod of the ELCA ended January 31, 2016. We closed 2015 with assets
totaling $7.2 million, a decrease of $.5 million over 2014, primarily due to the downturn in the stock market, this year’s
operating loss and grants awarded from the Ethel Verney Fund. Summarized balance sheets for fiscal years 2015 and
2016 follow this report.
Our 2015 net operating deficit of $105,000 was covered with $89,000 from the Congregation Legacy Fund and
the remainder from various designated funds. Mission Support from our congregations, which represents 90 percent
of the synod’s total operating revenue, was $1,515,000 in 2015 or $139,000 under approved budget. This low level
of financial support from our congregations is troublesome for three reasons. First, this is the lowest level of Mission
Support ever recorded in our synod’s history. Second, over 10 percent of our congregations did not provide any Mission
Support. Finally, Congregations that did make a Mission Support commitment fell short of that commitment by $113,000.
Operating expenses for the year were right on target with the approved budget. A four year summarized trend also
follows this report.
On the Horizon
Accountants are known for driving by watching the rear view mirror. However, there are several future events which
will have a dramatic impact on our synod’s financial well-being which need to be highlighted. In 2016 we will be spending
about $200,000 to replace our 40-year old heating and air conditioning system. In a few more years we will have to spend
about another $100,000 to replace the 25-year old roof on the Synod Office. The next major project after that will be to
reconfigure the space within the building including the expansion of the chapel/conference room, making the restrooms
ADA compliant and making the building more accessible to our committees in the evenings. These renovations will be
funded through our Congregational Legacy Fund and a 2017 capital campaign.
Annual Synod Audit
Maher Duessel CPAs completed their annual audit of the synod’s financial records April 5, 2016. Their findings
were reviewed with the Bishop, Synod Accountant, Audit Committee and the Synod Treasurer. The complete audited
financial statements follow this report.
Synod Treasurer’s Position
Last year the Synod Council took action to appoint the Synod Treasurer rather than seek nominations and elect
one. My term expired last year and we have been actively looking for a willing candidate to replace me. A background
in accounting or finance is beneficial. The treasurer needs to be available at least one day a week during office hours
to approve invoice payments, sign checks, review bank and other financial statements and attend various committee
meetings. (Synod Council meetings are usually on Saturdays.) The treasurer also provides a monthly set of financial
statements to the Executive Committee, but this can be done at home via email. If you or someone in your congregation
would be interested in filling this position, please see me or one of the members of the Synod Executive Committee.
In Appreciation
This past year our Synod Accountant, Bob Cairns, was sidelined for a while with a heart attack. Bob is not only the
master navigator of the synod’s complex financial system but he is also our principal set of eyes and ears when it comes
to the property and maintenance issues at the Synod Office. During his illness and recovery, we were fortunate to have
staff members jump in and help keep things running. We even solicited the help of our former Synod Treasurer to come
back and give us a hand. Thank you to all who put on one of Bob’s many hats while he was recuperating.
Tom Beecher, Synod Treasurer
114
BULLETIN OF REPORTS
SW PA Synod of the ELCA
Comparative Balance Sheet
January
2015
January
2016
889,169
86,339
5,606,099
316,667
35,755
6,934,029
897,423
40,000
5,149,900
294,831
34,975
6,417,129
232,238
12,160
244,398
234,477
12,278
246,755
Fixed Assets
500,777
510,422
Total Assets
7,679,204
7,174,306
1,375
101,759
56,048
21,865
181,047
1,294
147,747
83,471
232,512
1,111,797
1,096,059
851,155
1,170,410
207,676
4,237,624
71,675
98,541
312,092
4,927,608
207,676
3,923,343
55,869
97,096
295,387
4,579,371
362,693
340,858
7,679,204
7,174,306
Assets
Current Assets
Checking and Money Market
Certificates of Deposit
ELCA Pooled Trust
H. Miller Trust
Thrivent Income Fund A
Sub-Total
Accounts Receivable
Prepaid Expenses
Total Current Assets
Liabilities and Fund Balances
Current Liabilities
Payroll Taxes
Acct Pay - ELCA Mission Support
Acct Pay - Advances from Closed Cong
Other
Sub-Total
Fund Balances
Operating Fund
Congregational Legacy Fund
Temporarily Restricted Funds
Emily Navratil Estate
Ethel Verney Estate
ELCA Designations
SW PA Synod Designations
Other
Sub-Total
Permanently Restricted Funds
Total Liabilities and Fund Balances
Copy of 2015 Bal Sheet and Income Trend.xls
4/21/2016
115
BULLETIN OF REPORTS
Net Operating Income Trend
($000)
Actual
2011
Actual
2012
Actual
2013
Actual
2014
Actual
2015
Budget
2015
Revenue
Mission Support
Restricted Synod Benevolence
ELCA Deployed Staff Support
Registration Fees and Grants
Investment, Interest, Rent
All Other Revenue
Total Revenues
1,673
47
32
118
35
20
1,925
1,624
3
38
113
38
29
1,845
1,630
1
39
105
38
6
1,819
1,627
4
15
107
33
32
1,819
1,515
32
101
37
16
1,701
1,654
10
126
38
22
1,850
Expenses
ELCA Mission Support
Campus Ministry (Pgh, IUP, WVU)
Lutherlyn and Agape Camps
Thiel College
Gettysburg Seminary
Student Grants
Outreach
Lutheran Service Society
Lutheran Senior Life
Glade Run
Bethesda Children's Home
Lutheran Disaster Response
PA Council of Churches
Christian Associates of SW PA
Region 8 Support
Synod Assembly and Other Mtgs
Facilities and Administration
Travel Expenses
Personnel Costs
All Other Expenses
Total Expenses
840
109
56
19
96
3
14
19
10
5
1
32
13
12
7
88
145
29
523
73
2,119
812
109
30
5
96
13
5
5
5
1
26
5
6
9
71
135
30
517
62
1,942
774
76
21
3
75
3
10
3
3
3
1
17
3
6
10
78
144
27
560
55
1,872
773
67
6
3
75
4
13
3
3
3
1
3
3
6
14
94
147
24
579
59
1,880
720
67
6
3
75
3
3
3
3
1
2
3
6
12
59
146
27
605
62
1,806
786
67
6
3
75
3
3
3
1
10
3
6
9
67
140
30
603
115
1,930
(194)
(97)
(53)
(61)
(105)
(80)
180
177
175
174
173
174
Operating Surplus (Deficit)
Memo: Number of Congregations
116
Copy of 2015 Bal Sheet and Income Trend.xls
4/26/2016
BULLETIN OF REPORTS
117
BULLETIN OF REPORTS
YEARS ENDED JANUARY 31, 2016 AND 2015
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Independent Auditor's Report
1
Financial Statements:
Statements of Financial Position
3
Statement of Activities - 2016
4
Statement of Activities - 2015
5
Statements of Cash Flows
6
Notes to Financial Statements
7
Supplementary Information:
Detailed Statements of Operating Activities
22
Detailed Statements of Non-Operating Activities
26
Mission Endowment Fund - Statements of Support
and Revenues - 2016 and 2015
27
Congregation Legacy Fund - Statements of Support
and Revenues - 2016 and 2015
28
Ethel Verney Fund for Poverty Relief – Statements
of Support and Revenues - 2016 and 2015
29
118
BULLETIN OF REPORTS
119
BULLETIN OF REPORTS
120
BULLETIN OF REPORTS
STATEMENTS OF FINANCIAL POSITION
JANUARY 31, 2016 AND 2015
2016
Assets
Cash and cash equivalents:
Unrestricted - undesignated
Unrestricted - internally designated
Restricted - agency
Restricted
Total cash and cash equivalents
Investments:
Restricted
Total investments
Congregational remittances receivable
Other receivables
Prepaid expenses
Beneficial interest in perpetual trust
Property and equipment:
Land and improvements
Buildings
Furnishings and equipment
Accumulated depreciation
Total property and equipment
Total Assets
$
2015
201,300
314,814
19,323
390,014
$
928,633
1,200,833
4,142,219
1,285,874
4,569,552
5,343,052
5,855,426
111,311
123,251
12,280
294,831
124,007
108,315
12,161
316,667
381,239
1,147,757
241,111
(1,259,685)
Liabilities:
Accounts payable:
Proportionate share due to ELCA
Designated gifts
Agency payables
Other
261,071
293,334
29,774
344,454
925,451
Total accounts payable
Accrued expenses
Total Liabilities
Net Assets:
Unrestricted - undesignated
Unrestricted - property and equipment
Total unrestricted
381,239
1,114,825
216,778
(1,212,065)
510,422
500,777
$ 7,320,598
$ 7,845,986
2016
Liabilities and Net Assets
Temporarily restricted
Permanently restricted
Total Net Assets
Total Liabilities and Net Assets
See accompanying notes to financial statements.
3
121
$
61,972
144,351
19,323
156,941
2015
$
90,946
170,214
29,774
76,502
382,587
367,436
13,600
13,600
396,187
381,036
(10,704)
510,422
1,568,555
47,253
500,777
1,712,550
2,068,273
2,260,580
4,447,140
408,998
4,776,800
427,570
6,924,411
7,464,950
$ 7,320,598
$ 7,845,986
BULLETIN OF REPORTS
STATEMENT OF ACTIVITIES
YEAR ENDED JANUARY 31, 2016
(With Comparative Totals For Year Ended January 31, 2015)
Support and Revenues:
Operating support and revenues:
Mission support from congregations and members
Synod restricted benevolence
ELCA deployed staff support
Event registrations and grants
Rental income
Interest income
Trust revenue
Fair trade sales
Miscellaneous income
Total operating support and revenues
Non-operating support and revenues:
Contributions and bequests
Interest, dividends, investment income (loss)
Net assets released from restrictions
Restricted gain (loss) on beneficial interest in perpetual trust
Total non-operating support and revenues
Total support and revenues
Expenses:
Operating expenses:
Designated contributions:
Evangelical Lutheran Church in America proportionate share
Agencies and committees
Management and general
Unrestricted
$ 1,515,140
31,544
100,832
23,400
28
13,643
16,207
1,700,794
Temporarily
Restricted
Permanently
Restricted
$
$
-
2016
Totals
2015
-
$ 1,515,140
31,544
100,832
23,400
28
13,643
16,207
$ 1,627,444
3,831
46,362
107,476
17,650
23
12,784
300
2,830
-
1,700,794
1,818,700
44,525
(77,942)
238,612
-
121,430
(212,478)
(238,612)
-
3,264
(21,836)
169,219
(290,420)
(21,836)
4,285,942
309,611
15,039
205,195
(329,660)
(18,572)
(143,037)
4,610,592
1,905,989
(329,660)
(18,572)
1,557,757
6,429,292
719,692
307,191
778,936
-
-
719,692
307,191
778,936
773,036
354,778
752,481
1,805,819
-
-
1,805,819
1,880,295
Non-operating expenses
292,477
-
-
292,477
311,231
Total expenses
2,098,296
-
-
2,098,296
2,191,526
Total operating expenses
Change in Net Assets
Net Assets:
Beginning of year
End of year
(192,307)
(329,660)
2,260,580
4,776,800
$ 2,068,273
$ 4,447,140
(18,572)
$
122
4,237,766
427,570
7,464,950
3,227,184
408,998
$ 6,924,411
$ 7,464,950
4
(540,539)
BULLETIN OF REPORTS
STATEMENT OF ACTIVITIES
YEAR ENDED JANUARY 31, 2015
Unrestricted
Event registration fees
Rental income
Interest income
Trust revenue
Fair trade sales
$ 1,627,444
3,831
46,362
107,476
17,650
23
12,784
300
2,830
1,818,700
Temporarily
Restricted
Permanently
Restricted
$
$
-
Total
-
$ 1,627,444
3,831
46,362
107,476
17,650
23
12,784
300
2,830
-
1,818,700
Interest, dividends, and investment income
Restricted gain on beneficial interest in perpetual trust
81,999
103,470
150,240
-
4,203,402
206,141
(150,240)
-
541
15,039
4,285,942
309,611
15,039
335,709
4,259,303
15,580
4,610,592
2,154,409
4,259,303
15,580
6,429,292
773,036
354,778
752,481
-
-
773,036
354,778
752,481
1,880,295
-
-
1,880,295
Non-operating expenses
311,231
-
-
311,231
Total expenses
2,191,526
-
-
2,191,526
4,259,303
15,580
4,237,766
2,297,697
517,497
411,990
3,227,184
$ 2,260,580
$ 4,776,800
427,570
$ 7,464,950
Expenses:
Operating expenses:
Evangelical Lutheran Church in America proportionate share
Agencies and committees
Management and general
(37,117)
Net Assets:
Beginning of year
End of year
5
123
$
BULLETIN OF REPORTS
STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS
2016
Cash Flows From Operating and Non-Operating Activities:
Cash received from congregations
Cash received from registration fees and grants
Payments for designated contributions
Payments for agencies and committees
Payments to employees
Payments for facilities, equipment, and operations
Funds received from congregations for agency transactions
Funds remitted to ELCA and other agencies
Cash received from interest and trust revenue
Other receipts
Other (payments)
$
Net cash provided by (used in) operating and non-operating activities
Cash Flows From Investing Activities:
Purchase of property and equipment
Proceeds from sale of investments
Purchase of investments
Net cash provided by (used in) investing activities
Net Increase (Decrease) in Cash and Cash Equivalents
Cash and Cash Equivalents:
Beginning of year
1,559,380
100,832
(748,666)
(307,191)
(632,364)
(129,969)
396,657
(432,971)
239,145
169,219
39,607
(196,076)
2015
$
57,603
4,048,304
(57,265)
46,339
(49,859)
(37,533)
543,589
(4,599,394)
(60,785)
(4,093,338)
(3,182)
(45,034)
928,633
End of year
Reconciliation of Change in Net Assets to Net Cash
Provided by (Used in) Operating and Non-Operating Activities:
Change in net assets
Adjustments to reconcile change in net assets to
net cash provided by (used in) operating activities:
Depreciation
Net (gain) loss on investments
Net (gain) loss in perpetual trust
Change in:
Receivables
Prepaid expenses
Accounts payable and accrued expenses
925,451
$
928,633
$
(540,539)
$
4,237,766
47,620
515,894
21,836
Net cash provided by (used in) agency transactions
$
124
44,172
(149,437)
(15,039)
(2,240)
(119)
51,465
Agency transactions:
Funds received from congregations
Funds remitted to ELCA and other agencies
6
973,667
$
Total adjustments
Net cash provided by (used in) operating and non-operating activities
1,657,209
107,776
(769,063)
(354,778)
(605,565)
(129,180)
408,881
(412,127)
172,980
4,285,942
20,480
(334,251)
(62,761)
9,508
(12,659)
634,456
(186,216)
396,657
(432,971)
408,881
(412,127)
(36,314)
(3,246)
57,603
$
4,048,304
BULLETIN OF REPORTS
NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
1. ORGANIZATION
The Southwestern Pennsylvania Synod Evangelical Lutheran Church in America (Synod), in
partnership with the churchwide organization, bears the primary responsibility for the
oversight of the life and mission of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America (ELCA) on
the territory of this Synod. The primary financial support for the Synod comes from the
benevolent contributions from its congregations. Since the congregations, Synod, and
churchwide organization are interdependent units that share responsibility in God's mission,
all share in the responsibility to develop, implement, and strengthen the financial support of
the whole church. The gifts and offerings of the members of the ELCA are given to support
all parts of the ELCA.
The Synod oversees the congregations in Southwestern Pennsylvania. The territory of the
Synod includes the Counties of Allegheny, Beaver, Butler, Fayette, Greene, Lawrence,
Washington, Westmoreland, a major part of Armstrong, and a minor part of Indiana.
For the years ended January 31, 2016 and 2015, the proportionate share of congregation
remittances received for mission support and transmitted to the ELCA was 47.5%.
2. SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES
Basis of Accounting
The financial statements of the Synod have been prepared on the accrual basis. Revenues are
recognized when earned and expenses are recognized when incurred.
Basis of Presentation
Resources are classified for accounting and reporting purposes into three classes of net assets
(unrestricted, temporarily restricted, and permanently restricted) established according to
their nature and purpose. Separate accounts are maintained for individual funds; however,
for financial reporting purposes, funds that have similar characteristics have been combined
into net asset classes.
The assets, liabilities, and net assets of the Synod are reported in net asset classes as follows:
Unrestricted net assets – Net assets that are not subject to any donor-imposed stipulations.
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BULLETIN OF REPORTS
Temporarily restricted net assets – Net assets that are subject to donor-imposed or other legal
restrictions on the use of the assets that may be met either by actions of the Synod or the
passage of time.
Permanently restricted net assets – Net assets subject to donor-imposed or other legal
restrictions that the principal be maintained permanently by the Synod.
The Synod reports contributions of cash and other assets as restricted contributions if they are
received with donor stipulations that limit the use of the donated assets. Expiring donor
restrictions result in temporarily restricted net assets being reclassified to unrestricted net
assets and reported in the statements of activities as net assets released from restrictions.
Operating Activities
Operating transactions in the statements of activities are budgeted by the Synod Council and
are activities considered to be ongoing, major, or central to the routine operations of the
Synod. Other peripheral or incidental transactions are reported as non-operating. The Synod
has designated investment income earned on certain bank accounts as income from
operations.
Agency Transactions
The Synod acts as an agent for specific collections of funds for various agencies. These
funds are then forwarded to the ELCA and other agencies and institutions for distribution.
Funds received or committed from congregations in which the Synod acts as an agent are
reported as increases in cash or receivables and increases in payables. Distributions are
reported as decreases in cash and payables. The funds received and distributed for the fiscal
year are shown in the statements of cash flows.
The Synod has fiduciary responsibilities for the Tri-Synod Archives Endowment Fund, a
joint effort of three regional Synods. Receipts and disbursements of the Tri-Synod Archives
Endowment Fund are reflected as agency transactions.
During the fiscal year ended January 31, 2015, by mutual agreement of the parties involved,
the remaining balance of the Lutheran Planned Giving Partnership (a partnership of three
regional Synods and their related agencies and institutions), was transferred to Faith Works, a
joint effort of ten Lutheran ministry organizations to help congregations better understand the
work of each organization and the importance of donations in carrying out their ministries.
Faith Works was enacted in March of 2013 by Synod Council action to replace the Calendar
of Causes and is a Pilot Program for at least the next two years. The Faith Works program
was launched in the spring of 2014. The Synod also has fiduciary responsibilities for Faith
8
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BULLETIN OF REPORTS
Works and the receipts and disbursements of the Faith Works program are reflected as
agency transactions.
Cash and Cash Equivalents
Cash and cash equivalents include cash on hand, cash in banks, and money market accounts,
as well as all short-term highly liquid investments with maturities from the date of purchase
of three months or less.
Investments
Investments consist of fixed income and equity mutual funds, a pooled trust fund, equities,
federal bonds, certificates of deposit, and money market funds. Investments are presented in
the financial statements at fair value.
The Synod’s investments are exposed to various risks, such as interest rate, market, and
credit risk. Due to the level of risk associated with investments and the level of uncertainty
related to changes in the value of investments, it is at least reasonably possible that
significant changes in risks in the near-term may materially affect the amounts reported in the
financial statements.
Fixed Assets and Depreciation
Property and equipment are carried on the basis of cost for purchased items and at fair value
at the date of donation for donated items. Depreciation of buildings and equipment is
provided over the estimated useful lives of the respective assets on a straight-line basis.
Income Taxes
Income taxes are not provided, as the Synod is exempt under Section 501(c)(3) of the
Internal Revenue Code as other than a private foundation, within a group ruling for the
ELCA.
Uses of Estimates in the Preparation of Financial Statements
The preparation of financial statements in conformity with accounting principles generally
accepted in the United States of America requires management to make estimates and
assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosure of
contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements and the reported
amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting period. Actual results could differ
from those estimates.
9
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BULLETIN OF REPORTS
Severance Benefits
In March 1990, the Synod Council adopted the "Synod Severance Benefits for Synod
Bishops and Executive Staff" policy approved by the Church Council of the ELCA.
Severance benefits are provided for the Bishop and executive staff members whose office or
employment by the Synod is involuntarily terminated due to action of the Synod or
resignation upon the request of a newly elected Bishop. The benefit recipient must have
served at least one full term as Bishop or a term co-terminal with that of the Bishop. Benefit
amounts are equal to three months of the benefit participant's most recent monthly
compensation (including salary, housing, and FICA reimbursement, if applicable). No
severance benefits were paid or accrued during the years ended January 31, 2016 and 2015.
Concentration of Risk Factors
The Synod’s main source of revenue is earned through mission support from congregations
and members in the western Pennsylvania area. Thus, congregation membership, ELCA
mission and principles, and economic influences in the western Pennsylvania area have a
substantial effect on the Synod’s operations.
Subsequent Events
Subsequent events have been evaluated through the Independent Auditor's Report date,
which is the date the financial statements were available to be issued.
3. CASH
As of January 31, 2016 and 2015, the book balances for total cash and cash equivalents are
$925,451 and $928,633, respectively, and bank balances are $1,063,300 and $983,003,
respectively, of which $557,320 and $550,906, respectively, are FDIC insured. The Synod
has not experienced any losses from maintaining cash accounts in excess of federally insured
limits. It is the opinion of management that the solvency of the financial institutions
involved, as well as the ELCA Mission Investment Fund, is not of particular concern at this
time.
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BULLETIN OF REPORTS
4. INVESTMENTS
Investments at January 31, 2016 and 2015 consist of:
2016
Mission investment certificates issued by ELCA
Commercial bank certificates of deposit
ELCA endowment fund A pooled trust
Mutual funds
$
40,000
5,268,077
34,975
$ 5,343,052
2015
$
46,339
40,000
5,733,332
35,755
$ 5,855,426
The mission investment certificates are issued by the ELCA Mission Investment Fund to
provide financing (primarily for capital projects) to congregations and affiliated units of the
ELCA and also to purchase buildings and property sites for eventual use by congregations.
Interest, dividend, and investment income as of January 31, 2016 and 2015 consisted of
$225,474 and $160,174 of interest and dividends, respectively, and ($515,894) of unrealized
loss and $149,437 of unrealized gain, respectively.
Beneficial Interest in Perpetual Trust
During 1990, Holy Spirit Lutheran Church (Holy Spirit) became the beneficiary of a
perpetual charitable trust (trust). Under the trust agreement, Holy Spirit was to receive 5% of
the income generated by the trust. As a result of legal proceedings, the Synod has been
named the legal successor of Holy Spirit and, accordingly, is receiving the income
distributions from the trust since Holy Spirit’s closing in June 2006. The Synod Council has
voted to forward all income received from the trust to the operating fund. These investments
held in trust by others at January 31, 2016 and 2015 were valued at $294,831 and $316,667,
respectively.
Fair Value Hierarchy
Fair values for Level 1 investments are determined by reference to quoted market prices and
other relevant information generated by market transactions. Fair values for Level 2
investments are determined by reference to quoted prices for similar investments in active
markets. Level 3 investments have significant unobservable inputs, as they trade
infrequently or not at all. Fair values for Level 3 financial instruments are determined by
significant unobservable inputs, including the Synod’s own assumptions in determining the
fair value of financial instruments.
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BULLETIN OF REPORTS
The asset’s fair value measurement level within the fair value hierarchy is based on the
lowest level of any input that is significant to the fair value measurement. Valuation
techniques maximize the use of relevant observable inputs and minimize the use of
unobservable inputs.
Following is a description of the valuation methodologies used for assets measured at fair
value. There have been no changes from previous years in the methodologies.
ELCA Endowment Fund A Pooled Trust: Valued at the net asset value (NAV) of units of a
collective trust as reported to the Synod, as of January 31, 2016. The NAV, as provided by
the trustee, is used as a practical expedient to estimate fair value. The NAV is based on the
ELCA Endowment Fund Pooled Trust’s net assets divided by the total of all participants’
units. The value of the assets of the trust, as well as the value of a unit in the trust, is
determined on the last business day of each month. Participant contributions or withdrawals
may occur at any time, but are based upon the most recent value as of the last business day of
the previous month. Closing withdrawals can only be made at the last business day of the
month.
Beneficial Interest in Perpetual Trust: Valued at 5% of the assets held in trust, reported by
the trustee, as of January 31, 2016. The Synod considers the measurement of its beneficial
interest in the perpetual charitable trust to be a Level 3 measurement within the fair value
measurement hierarchy because, even though that measurement is based on the unadjusted
fair value of trust assets reported by the trustee, the Organization will never receive those
assets or have the ability to direct the trustee to redeem them.
For Level 3 investments of the Beneficial Interest in Perpetual Trust as of January 31, 2016
and 2015 the principal valuation technique utilized is market value of the underlying
investments, with an unobservable input of percentage share, and a significant input value of
5%.
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BULLETIN OF REPORTS
Fair values of assets measured on a recurring basis as of January 31, 2016 are as follows:
Description
Certificates of deposit
Pooled trust
Beneficial interest in
perpetual trust
Mutual funds:
Fixed income funds
Totals
1/31/16
$
40,000
5,268,077
Fair Value Measurements at Reporting Date Using
Quoted Prices in Active
Other Significant
Significant
Markets for Identical
Observable Inputs Unobservable Inputs
Assets (Level 1)
(Level 2)
(Level 3)
$
40,000
-
$
-
$
5,268,077
294,831
-
-
294,831
34,975
34,975
-
-
$ 5,637,883
$
74,975
$
-
$
5,562,908
Fair values of assets measured on a recurring basis as of January 31, 2015 are as follow:
Description
Certificates of deposit
Pooled trust
Beneficial interest in
perpetual trust
Mutual funds:
Fixed income funds
Totals
1/31/15
$
86,339
5,733,332
Quoted Prices in Active
Other Significant
Significant
Markets for Identical
Observable Inputs Unobservable Inputs
Assets (Level 1)
(Level 2)
(Level 3)
$
86,339
-
$
-
$
5,733,332
316,667
-
-
316,667
35,755
35,755
-
-
$ 6,172,093
$
122,094
$
-
$
6,049,999
Level 3 assets are the ELCA Endowment Fund A Pooled Trust, and the beneficial interest in
perpetual trust, which are both described above. All unrealized gains (losses) in the tables
below are reflected in the accompanying statements of activities as investment income (loss)
as of January 31, 2016 and 2015, respectively, and are related to assets still held at the
statement of financial position date.
The following table summarizes the changes in fair values associated with Level 3 assets as
of January 31, 2016:
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BULLETIN OF REPORTS
Significant Unobservable Inputs (Level 3)
Balance as of February 1, 2015
Purchases
Gain (loss) on beneficial interest in perpetual trust
Unrealized gains (losses)
$
6,049,999
48,527
(21,836)
(513,782)
Balance as of January 31, 2016
$
5,562,908
The following table summarizes the changes in fair values associated with Level 3 assets as
of January 31, 2015:
Significant Unobservable Inputs (Level 3)
Balance as of February 1, 2014
Purchases
Gain on beneficial interest in perpetual trust
Unrealized gains (losses)
$
1,384,439
4,513,367
15,039
137,154
Balance as of January 31, 2015
$
6,049,999
5. RETIREMENT BENEFITS
The called staff, support staff, and grant supported staff of the Synod participate in a defined
contribution pension plan (plan) sponsored by the ELCA. Contributions to the plan are based
on a percentage of the plan participants' compensation. Total contributions by the Synod to
the plan during the years ended January 31, 2016 and 2015 amounted to $48,856 and
$49,285, respectively.
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BULLETIN OF REPORTS
6. RESTRICTED NET ASSETS
Temporarily restricted net assets as of January 31, 2016 and 2015 are available for use for the
following purposes and programs:
2016
Mission endowment
Support for congregations
Local flood relief
New sanctuary construction
Property maintenance
Seminary training
Special ministry/events
Companion Synod - Madagascar
Support for professional leaders
Office equipment and training
Youth programs
LDR disaster response work teams
Synod Resource Center
Ethel Verney Fund for Poverty Relief
Abiding ministries
2015
$
20,733
28,656
12,343
207,676
6,258
86,675
43,261
12,087
28,800
5,062
18,844
10,180
3,923,343
43,222
$
28,022
21,869
11,996
207,676
7,813
86,812
44,217
16,373
26,604
172
7,214
20,045
15,971
4,237,624
44,392
$
4,447,140
$
4,776,800
During the fiscal year ended January 31, 2015, the SWPA Synod, ELCA became the
recipient of a bequest from the Ethel L. Verney estate. Her will has directed that these funds
are “for the benefit of the Southwestern Pennsylvania Synod, to be used in its programs to
provide relief and support for people living in poverty in the area it serves.” This fund is
administered by the Synod’s Mission Endowment Board and is invested in the ELCA
Endowment Fund Pooled Trust “A”.
During the years ended January 31, 2016 and 2015, $238,612 and $150,240, respectively, of
net assets were released from donor restrictions by incurring expenses that satisfied the
restricted purpose.
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BULLETIN OF REPORTS
Permanently restricted net assets are restricted as to investment in perpetuity, the income
from which is available to support the following activities:
2016
Howard Miller Charitable Trust - operations
Any activities other than operations
Scholarships for seminary students
Education related to church service
Mission Endowment Fund principal
2015
$
294,831
30,708
10,319
5,000
68,140
$
316,667
30,708
10,319
5,000
64,876
$
408,998
$
427,570
7. DESIGNATED NET ASSETS
Unrestricted, internally designated net assets as of January 31, 2016 and 2015 are available
for the following purposes and programs:
2016
Congregation Legacy Fund
Small congregation call fund
Support for congregations and pastors
Special events and Synod programs
Property maintenance and equpiment purchases
Mission endowment
Nonoperational activities
Support for professional staff
2015
$
1,067,052
34,027
86,909
240,956
66,328
38,091
27,007
8,185
$
1,180,926
34,020
86,024
256,357
73,533
44,111
29,809
7,770
$
1,568,555
$
1,712,550
In May 2009, Synod Council consolidated the residual assets received from the
congregations that have closed since the 1987 constituting convention of the ELCA into the
Congregation Legacy Fund to honor and preserve the ministries of those congregations.
Previously these assets and the earnings from them were designated by Council for various
ministries. Distributions from the Fund are determined each year by the Office of the Bishop
and Synod Council. The Fund distributed $42,120 and $45,232 in 2016 and 2015,
respectively, to the Operating Fund to help underwrite the operating deficit. The Fund is
managed by the Budget and Finance Committee and holds assets in various institutions
including the ELCA Mission Investment Fund and the ELCA Foundation’s Pooled Trust A.
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BULLETIN OF REPORTS
8. ENDOWMENT DISCLOSURES
The Synod’s Mission Endowment was established for witness ministry so that future
generations will know the story of God’s love in Jesus Christ. Its endowment includes both
donor-restricted endowment funds and funds designated by the Synod Council to function as
endowments.
The Board has designated that the income earned on the Anna Hochheimer Fund be allocated
to the Synodical Outreach Committee, as the donor has specified that it is not to be used in
operating expenses. The income from the Mehalov Memorial Fund is to be used for
scholarships for seminary students. The income from the Ida Mae Mehalov Fund is to be
used for persons wishing to further their education in religious training. The principal of all
three endowments are to be held in perpetuity. The Howard Miller Trust is to be held in
perpetuity by the trustee and income is distributed to the Synod.
As required by accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America, net
assets associated with endowment funds, including funds designated by the Synod Council to
function as endowments, are classified and reported based on the existence or absence of
donor-imposed restrictions.
Interpretation of Relevant Law
The Synod Council has interpreted Pennsylvania State Act 141 of 1998 (Act) as requiring the
preservation of the fair value of the original gift as of the gift date of the donor-restricted
endowment funds absent explicit donor stipulations to the contrary. As a result of this
interpretation, the Synod classifies as permanently restricted net assets (a) the original value
of gifts donated to the permanent endowment, (b) the original value of subsequent gifts to the
permanent endowment, and (c) accumulations to the permanent endowment made in
accordance with the direction of the applicable donor gift instrument at the time the
accumulation is added to the fund. The remaining portion of the donor-restricted endowment
fund that is not classified in permanently restricted net assets is classified as temporarily
restricted net assets until those amounts are appropriated for expenditure by the organization
in a manner consistent with the standard of prudence prescribed by the Act.
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BULLETIN OF REPORTS
Endowments Net Asset Composition by Type of Fund as January 31, 2016:
Board-designated:
Mission Endowment Fund
Donor-restricted:
Anna Hochheimer Fund
Mehalov Memorial Fund
Ida Mae Mehalov Fund
Donor-restricted, held by others:
Howard Miller Trust
Total funds
Unrestricted
Temporarily Permanently
Restricted
Restricted
$
$
38,091
$
-
$
-
Total
$
38,091
27,007
-
20,733
1,968
932
68,140
30,708
10,319
5,000
88,873
57,715
12,287
5,932
-
-
294,831
294,831
23,633
$ 408,998
65,098
$
$
497,729
Changes in Endowments Net Assets for the fiscal year ended January 31, 2016:
Endowments Net Assets, Beginning of Year
Unrestricted
Temporarily Permanently
Restricted
Restricted
$
$
73,404
Total
32,120
$ 427,570
$ 533,094
-
6,029
Investment return:
Investment income
Net appreciation (depreciation)
(realized and unrealized)
2,805
3,224
(7,918)
(8,204)
(21,836)
(37,958)
Total investment return
(5,113)
(4,980)
(21,836)
(31,929)
3,264
3,264
Contributions
-
Appropriation of endowment
assets for expenditure
Endowments Net Assets, End of Year
-
(3,193)
$
65,098
18
136
(3,507)
$
23,633
$ 408,998
(6,700)
$ 497,729
BULLETIN OF REPORTS
Endowments Net Asset Composition by Type of Fund as January 31, 2015:
Board-designated:
Donor-restricted:
Anna Hochheimer Fund
Mehalov Memorial Fund
Ida Mae Mehalov Fund
Donor-restricted, held by others:
Howard Miller Trust
Total funds
Unrestricted
$
44,111
$
Temporarily
Restricted
Permanently
Restricted
$
$
-
-
Total
$
44,111
29,293
-
28,022
2,776
1,322
64,876
30,708
10,319
5,000
92,898
60,001
13,095
6,322
-
-
316,667
316,667
73,404
$
32,120
$
427,570
$
533,094
Changes in Endowments Net Assets for the fiscal year ended January 31, 2015:
Unrestricted
Endowments Net Assets, Beginning of Year
$
75,282
Investment return:
Investment income
Net appreciation (depreciation)
(realized and unrealized)
Total investment return
Contributions
Appropriation of endowment
assets for expenditure
Endowments Net Assets, End of Year
Temporarily
Restricted
Permanently
Restricted
$
$
137
$
514,884
2,713
-
5,051
2,470
3,450
15,039
20,959
4,808
6,163
15,039
26,010
-
145
541
686
73,404
19
411,990
2,338
(6,686)
$
27,612
Total
(1,800)
$
32,120
$
427,570
(8,486)
$
533,094
BULLETIN OF REPORTS
Return Objectives and Risk Parameters
Endowment assets include those assets of donor-restricted funds that the organization must
hold in perpetuity or for a donor-specified period(s) as well as board-designated funds. The
Synod has adopted policies and guidelines for endowment and restricted funds.
To satisfy its long-term rate-of-return objectives, the Synod relies on returns in excess of the
rate of inflation. The Synod targets a diversified asset allocation that places a greater
emphasis on equity-based investments to achieve its long-term return objectives within
prudent risk constraints.
The Synod has a policy of appropriating for distribution each year, between 3% and 8% of
the market value of the Mission Endowment Fund balance as of the most recent December
31 portfolio valuation. In setting the actual distribution amount, the Synod Council will take
into consideration the historical and recent investment performance and the long-term goal of
the investment policy to preserve the principal amount of gifts to the Mission Endowment
Fund.
The Synod receives a quarterly income distribution from the Howard Miller Trust of 4.5%.
The distribution is calculated on the average fair market value of the trust on the last business
day of each of the last three calendar years. The remaining endowments are invested in
current income investments with the goal of preserving the principal of the endowments.
9. CLOSED CONGREGATIONS
If any congregation of the Synod has disbanded or is subject to constitutional provisions, it is
necessary for the Synod Council to protect the congregation's property from deterioration.
The Synod Council may take charge of and control the property on behalf of the Synod. The
congregation shall have the right to appeal the decision to the Synod Assembly (Synod
Constitution S.13.24). The Synod did not hold any property from closed congregations as of
January 31, 2016.
10. LEASE COMMITMENTS
The Synod leases vehicles and equipment under various operating leases. Lease expense was
approximately $30,000 and $31,000 in 2016 and 2015, respectively.
At January 31, 2016, future minimum lease payments under long-term noncancelable
operating leases are as follows:
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BULLETIN OF REPORTS
Year Ending
January 31,
Amount
2017
2018
2019
2020
2021
$
17,217
6,390
5,638
4,584
4,202
$
38,031
11. OFF-BALANCE SHEET ASSETS
The Synod jointly has interest in properties with the Northwestern Pennsylvania Synod.
These properties are owned by Camp Lutherlyn, a nonprofit organization, which receives
grants from the Synod in addition to congregational contributions. In the event of the
dissolution of this nonprofit organization, three-fourths of any assets remaining after paying
liabilities of the nonprofit organization shall be transferred to the Synod.
12. COMMITMENT
At January 31, 2016, the Synod has construction commitments totaling approximately
$184,000 related to renovations of the HVAC system at the Lutheran Center building.
13. UNRESTRICTED, UNDESIGNATED NET ASSETS
After many years of Operating Fund losses, the unrestricted, undesignated net assets has
reached a negative balance of $10,704. Management plans to look at increasing giving from
congregations, cutting expenses, and/or removing some of the internal designations of net
assets.
21
139
BULLETIN OF REPORTS
Supplementary Information
140
BULLETIN OF REPORTS
DETAILED STATEMENTS OF OPERATING ACTIVITIES
2016
Unrestricted Net Assets:
Event registrations and grants *
Rental income
Interest income
Trust revenue
Fair trade sales
$
Operating expenses:
Evangelical Lutheran Church in America proportionate share (47.5%)
Agencies and committees:
Congregational Life:
Committee ministries
Committee expenses
Youth Ministry:
Programs and events
Global Mission:
Committee expenses
2015
1,515,140
31,544
100,832
23,400
28
13,643
16,207
$
1,627,444
3,831
46,362
107,476
17,650
23
12,784
300
2,830
1,700,794
1,818,700
719,692
773,036
2,904
-
2,330
32
2,904
2,362
8,108
2,020
8,108
2,020
-
55
-
55
(Continued)
* For budgetary purposes, the Synod considers event registrations and grants to be a reduction of the related
expense (Synod Assembly, Youth Ministry, Congregational Life, Outreach, Church in Society, Ministry
Events, and Ecumenical Affairs)
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BULLETIN OF REPORTS
(Continued)
2016
Ministry:
Gettysburg Seminary
Student grants
Candidacy committee
Committee expenses
Leadership support
First Call Theological Education
Lay education
Career development services
Outreach:
Pilot Projects
New Ministries
Mission Partnerships
Campus ministries
Thiel College
Camp Agape
Camp Lutherlyn
Church in Society:
Lutheran Service Society
Lutheran SeniorLife
Lutheran Advocacy Ministry in PA
Lutheran Disaster Response
Committee expenses
ELCMA
2015
75,000
5,000
2,971
18,780
2,850
5,454
2,188
75,000
4,000
3,544
171
22,346
3,039
6,408
4,584
112,243
119,092
1,500
2,000
66,546
3,000
1,000
5,000
3,000
10,000
66,546
3,000
1,000
5,000
79,046
88,546
3,000
3,000
3,000
1,000
3,000
1,658
150
215
-
3,000
3,000
3,000
1,000
3,000
2,705
181
276
15,023
16,162
(Continued)
23
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BULLETIN OF REPORTS
(Continued)
2016
Ecumenical Affairs:
Christian Associates of SW-PA
Committee expenses
Communication Services:
Committee expenses
Stewardship/Financial Support:
Regional/Churchwide Expenses:
Regional/Churchwide programs
Region 8 Center for Mission
Regional/Churchwide meetings - travel
Synod Council/Conferences:
Synod Assembly proceedings
Synod Council meetings
Subcommittees
Conferences/Deans
Contingency:
Bishop's emergency support/counseling
Support to congregations
2015
6,000
3,000
3,941
-
6,000
3,000
1,088
23
12,941
10,111
911
28
1,949
166
939
2,115
-
54
-
54
3,757
6,680
1,130
5,776
7,210
556
11,567
13,542
55,803
2,533
412
127
90,480
3,086
57
425
58,875
94,048
271
-
359
1,142
271
1,501
(Continued)
24
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BULLETIN OF REPORTS
(Continued)
2016
Synod Resource Center:
Director continuing education
Resources
Office and building supplies
2015
265
1,803
295
2,363
470
1,654
322
2,446
2,000
249
662
2,000
10
714
2,911
2,724
Total agencies and committees
307,191
354,778
Management and general:
Facilities, equipment, and operations
Staff compensation and benefits
Staff travel
Legal and auditing
Synod archives
129,969
605,202
27,162
15,289
1,314
129,180
579,163
26,402
16,408
1,328
Total management and general
778,936
752,481
1,805,819
1,880,295
Director - Evangelical Mission:
Administrative support
Director continuing education
Event registrations
Change in Unrestricted Net Assets
From Operations Before Transfer
Transfer in from internally designated funds
From Operations After Transfer
$
(105,025)
(61,595)
105,025
61,595
-
$
(Concluded)
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BULLETIN OF REPORTS
DETAILED STATEMENTS OF NON-OPERATING ACTIVITIES
2016
Interest, dividends, investment income (loss)
$
Non-operating expenses:
Depreciation expense
Continuing education programs
Special ministry programs
Support for professional leaders
Property maintenance and equipment
Companion Synod
Support for congregations
Disaster relief response
Youth programs
Mission Endowment grants
Abiding Ministries
Health and wellness programs
Poverty relief programs
Miscellaneous
Total non-operating expenses
From Non-operating Activities Before Transfer
Transfer to operating fund
From Non-operating Activities After Transfer
26
145
$
44,525
(77,942)
238,612
2015
$
81,999
103,470
150,240
205,195
335,709
47,620
1,395
3,958
2,250
8,966
4,500
2,415
1,565
4,184
6,700
94,964
4,504
106,374
3,082
44,172
4,522
27,545
4,296
17,538
70,545
41,737
1,066
1,545
8,486
34,353
8,046
47,293
87
292,477
311,231
(87,282)
24,478
(105,025)
(61,595)
(192,307)
$
(37,117)
BULLETIN OF REPORTS
MISSION ENDOWMENT FUND
STATEMENTS OF SUPPORT AND REVENUES
Interest, dividends, and investment income (loss)
Unrestricted
BoardDesignated
$
(2,827)
Temporarily
Restricted
$
(3,782)
Permanently
Restricted
$
Totals
2016
3,264
-
$
(2,827)
(3,782)
3,193
3,507
(6,020)
(7,289)
3,264
(10,045)
Net Assets:
Beginning of year
44,111
28,022
64,876
137,009
Expenses:
Grants
End of year
$
38,091
$
Unrestricted
BoardDesignated
$
4,394
20,733
3,264
3,264
(6,609)
-
$
Temporarily
Restricted
$
6,158
(3,345)
68,140
6,700
$
Permanently
Restricted
$
126,964
Totals
2015
541
-
$
541
10,552
4,394
6,158
541
11,093
6,686
1,800
-
8,486
(2,292)
4,358
541
2,607
Net Assets:
Beginning of year
46,403
23,664
64,335
134,402
Expenses:
Grants
End of year
$
44,111
27
146
$
28,022
$
64,876
$
137,009
BULLETIN OF REPORTS
CONGREGATION LEGACY FUND
STATEMENTS OF SUPPORT AND REVENUES
Board-Designated
2016
$
36,000
(53,384)
2015
$
(17,384)
Expenses:
Expenses
51,653
73,785
125,438
54,363
5,854
Change in Net Assets Before Transfers
(71,747)
119,584
Transfer to operating fund
(42,120)
(45,232)
(113,867)
74,352
Net Assets:
Beginning of year
1,214,946
End of year
Net Asset Breakdown:
Congregation Legacy Fund
Small Congregation Call Fund
28
147
1,140,594
$
1,101,079
$
1,214,946
$
1,067,052
34,027
$
1,180,926
34,020
$
1,101,079
$
1,214,946
BULLETIN OF REPORTS
ETHEL VERNEY FUND FOR POVERTY RELIEF
STATEMENT OF SUPPORT AND REVENUES
Temporarily Restricted
2016
$
(207,907)
2015
$
(207,907)
Expenses:
Grants
4,264,624
106,374
27,000
(314,281)
Net Assets:
Beginning of year
4,237,624
4,237,624
End of year
$
29
148
3,923,343
4,067,936
196,688
$
4,237,624
BULLETIN OF REPORTS
REPORT OF THE DIRECTOR FOR EVANGELICAL MISSION
The job description for Directors for Evangelical Mission can be summarized in eight key areas. For this report, I will
work from those eight in sharing my current work in our synod as the D.E.M.:
1. Starting New Ministries: We have two Synodically Authorized Worshipping Communities (SAWC) – Abiding
Ministries and Community Three for One. Abiding continued in its mission to minister WITH rather than TO people facing
many challenges, including homelessness in Pittsburgh. Its Mission Developer, Christine Rotella, was ordained in early
November, 2015. Up until the end of November of 2015 it continued to have weekly Thursday breakfast fellowships.
Changes took place that both challenged the ministry and opened new possibilities as it moved out of Trinity Lutheran
Church on the northside. The former Bethlehem Lutheran Church in the Allentown section of Pittsburgh became available
to Abiding. Pastor Rotella began in January of 2016 holding worship services there on Sunday mornings with those
who had grown in their faith journeys through Abiding. Day Shelters on very cold days continued to be held, but at New
Hope Methodist Church on North Avenue on the northside. Abiding continues to talk with New Hope about the possibility
of weekly fellowships starting again there. Community Three for One continues to be an outreach to the Brookline
community through the pastors of Brookline Boulevard Presbyterian Church (Pastor Marsha Sebastian) and St. Mark’s
Lutheran Church (Pastor Christina Ingold Hough; Pastor Ingold got married this past fall!). This ministry centers around
a Wednesday evening meal, but continues to grow in its outreach to those who gather as additional ministries and
worship are added. We also began a New Start Team to explore how we might inspire new mission starts in our synod
in the coming years. Pastor Kimberly van Driel is the chair of this new team.
2. Engaging congregations in a process of renewal or transformation:
3. Assisting congregations in developing congregational mission plans:
4. Encouraging and helping congregations connect with their communities: Much of how we go about these
three things is tied together and comes under the Outreach Committee of our synod. Pastor Bob Zimmerman is the chair
of that committee. We provide support toward this renewal of congregations through two different mission planning tools
as the use of Natural Church Development. Any congregation can contact me as the D.E.M. and arrange for working
on a mission planning process for their congregation. We have begun working with congregations in tandem and have
seen some helpful aspects through the opportunity of working their plans together.
5. Providing stewardship education:
6. Increasing Mission Support: These two are tied together in our work through the synod’s Stewardship and
Financial Support Committee. Barbara Nugent is the chair of this committee. Our Stewards for Stewardship training has
reached over 60 congregations and 200 people. We have had strong positive reviews from this teaching resource that we
have offered for five years now. Up until this past year we had indications of Mission Support firming, but this past year
turned out to be a tough one for mission support in the synod. Commitments seem to be stronger for the coming year.
7. Developing Synodical Mission Plans: Current Synod Priorities are shared in the statement: Belonging to each
other in Christ Jesus, we steward the Gospel and care for our neighbors. Planning continues underneath these priorities.
8. Strengthening faith practices with congregations: I was invited to be part of the Faith Practices Team of the
ELCA as we seek to develop new materials around the Five Gifts of Discipleship that are proclaimed in each Affirmation
of Baptism service. These materials were distributed this spring through the Bishop’s Luncheons with Rostered Leaders.
We also used this material as part of the discipleship weekend we had this winter with some of our Stewards for
Stewardship at Lutherlyn.
As the D.E.M., I am officially a staff person of the ELCA assigned solely to our synod. My salary and benefits package
are paid by the ELCA through your Mission Support and it also provides an additional stipend to the synod to help cover
some of the expenses I incur as I am involved in ministry.
It is a great blessing to work with our bishop, the assistants and the rest of the staff of this synod. Each of the
committees with which I relate work diligently to make a difference for the Gospel in the work of the congregations of
our synod. I am thankful for each and all of them and deeply enjoy this road of ministry we travel together in the name
of our Lord Jesus Christ as the Southwestern Pennsylvania Synod.
The Rev. Dr. Blair W. Morgan, Director for Evangelical Mission
REPORT OF THE SOUTHWESTERN PENNSYLVANIA RESOURCE CENTER
"The gifts he gave were that some would be apostles, some prophets, some evangelists, some pastors and teachers,
to equip the saints for the work of ministry, for building up the body of Christ."
Ephesians 4:11-12
Last year I reported to you that plans were underway to provide a dynamic virtual and physical space for multi
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purposes in the rear space of the Resource Center. This redesign was part of what was originally envisioned in "…
capturing the creativity and resourcefulness of the people of God in our synod; providing theologically sound, culturally
relevant, and practical information on various aspects of parish life and mission; and by linking those gifts with ministry
sites through hands-on services and sharing media resources." (Southwestern Pennsylvania Synod Resource Center
Mission Statement). In other words, through your generous contributions, we initially set out to provide our rostered
leaders and congregations with hands-on resources to enhance congregations’ ministries, but with the intent that the
resource ministry would grow and encompass new ways to make connections and network with one another.
The new "cafe-style" space provides a warm and welcoming setting combined with technology to have a variety
of classes, webinars, video conferencing, and much more. The Resource Center Advisory Board has also planned for
additional spiritual growth opportunities. We are blessed to have trained spiritual directors in our synod who will lead
workshops throughout the year and be available, at no charge, for individual and group spiritual direction.
At this writing, there is some minor construction needed to complete the space but it is entirely useable and already
booked for an ongoing class and a special seminar. We plan to have an open house when everything is completed. We
hope you will join us in celebrating our synod working together to create a wonderful resource "hub!"
Our Resource Center is also a part of the Association of Lutheran Resource Centers (ALRC). We greatly benefit
from this additional networking connection with other resource centers around the country, including some ecumenical
centers. Members of the ALRC: participate in monthly conference calls and webinars, hosted by Augsburg Fortress; have
ongoing contact through ListServ and Facebook; and literally share resources among centers as needed.
In addition to serving as the director of our synod's center, I also serve as deployed staff of the ELCA as Coordinator
of ELCA Resource Centers. The coordinator acts as a critical link between ELCA Resource Centers and the ELCA
churchwide organization, providing oversight, guidance, and support to the network. Much of my time is spent supporting
and connecting existing networks that further promote the work of the church and its resource ministry. I also serve ex
officio and/or provide oversight with the synod's History and Archives Committee, Theological Convocation Planning
Committee, and the Book of Faith Initiative. Recently I was contacted by The Lutheran magazine to be a contributing
writer to their resources section of the magazine.
Your congregation's mission support enables the Resource Center to continue to open its doors, and we also receive
support through individual contributions by members and congregations. We are deeply grateful for these additional gifts
that enable us to continue to provide for the ministry needs of our parishes and their leaders. We are also thankful for those
who give of their time and talents. Volunteers are always welcome! This year we have benefitted by the skills of many
of our rostered leaders and congregation members who donated their time and efforts with construction and assembly
needs in the remodeling of the Resource Center. I hesitate to try to list everyone for fear I miss someone, but you know
who you are and how much you are appreciated! Greg Ferrior (St. Matthias/Greensburg) continues to volunteer, assisting
with data entry, and Jeff Gray (St. John's/Carnegie) continues to work with the music catalog. Again, my sincere thanks!
I am blessed to work daily with a remarkable group of people including our bishop, his assistants, our Director of
Evangelical Mission, and our support staff. My gratitude is also extended to those who give of their time and talents and
serve on the Resource Center Advisory Board. They are a creative, thoughtful, and energetic group of gifted leaders!
Advisory Board Members
The Rev. Paul M. Gruesu
The Rev. Robert C. Hawk
The Rev. Terri L. Landers
The Rev. Frederick P. Schenker
The Rev. Jeffrey L. Schock
The Rev. Beth L. Siefert
The Rev. Michael L. Sourwine
Elizabeth A. Caywood, AIM--ex officio
The Rev. Kurt F. Kusserow--ex officio
Elizabeth A. Caywood, Associate in Ministry
Director, Southwestern Pennsylvania Synod Resource Center
Coordinator, ELCA Resource Centers
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REPORT OF THE SYNOD COUNCIL
From the time of the 2015 Synod Assembly to the time of this report, the Synod Council met five times (June 13, July 23,
October 10, January 16, March 12). The October 10 meeting was held at Trinity Lutheran Church, Mt. Oliver; the March
12 meeting was held at Camp Lutherlyn; all other meetings were held at the synod office. This report lists the actions
of the Synod Council at these five meetings. Synod Council actions from the scheduled May 7, 2016 meeting will be
reported in a Supplemental Report which will be emailed to rostered leaders and congregation contacts and distributed
with the Bulletin of Reports at Conference Meetings.
Appointments
Appointed the following persons to the Synod Council Executive Committee for the year 2015-2016: Pastor Ann E.
Schmid, Pastor Ronald A. Brown, Ms. Holly Schmitt and Mr. Dennis Lane [Jun 13].
Appointed Mr. Christopher Atwood to the Synod Council as Member at Large with a term expiring in 2019 [Jul 23].
Appointed Pastor Robert Hawk to the Bethesda Children’s Home Board of Directors with a term expiring in 2016 [Jul 23].
Appointed the following Synod Council members to serve as Synod Council representatives to Standing Committees
with terms as shown [Jul 23].
Standing Committee
Congregational Life
Youth Ministry
Global Mission
Ministry
Outreach
Church in Society
Stewardship &Financial Support
Communication Services
Property
Synod Council Rep
Sarah Lundie
Erik Nordby
Janet Flecken
Pastor Bill Schaefer
Sue Devine
Kelly Spanninger
Jill Shook
Pastor Brian B. Chaffee
Dennis Lane
Term Expires
2019
2017
2019
2019
2019
2017
2017
2017
2017
Appointed the following persons to the Committee on Stewardship and Financial Support with terms expiring in 2019
[Jul 23].
Keith Devine
Pr. Frank S. Podolinski, Jr.
Raymond Dittenhafer
Jeff Lehman
Pastor Nathaneil Christman
Appointed the following persons to the Committee on Global Mission with terms expiring in 2019, and appointed C.E.
Pino as chairperson [Jul 23].
Chairperson: C.E. Pino
Miranda Pino
Carole Higenbothum
Appointed Pastor Erin E. Evans and Andrew Sabol, members of the Committee on Youth Ministry, as chairperson and
secretary, respectively, with terms expiring in 2017.
Appointed the following persons to the Committee on Ministry with terms as shown below [Jul 23].
Pastor Peggy Suhr-Barkley AIM Mark Nurnberger
(To fill unexpired term )
Ms. Sally Shirey Term Expires
2019
2017
2019
Appointed Carrie Nurnberger-Lane and Nadine Simon to the Committee on Communication Services for second 4-year
terms (terms expire 2019) [Jul 23].
Appointed Rachelle Fritz to the Committee on Congregational Life for a second 4-year term (term expires 2019) [Jul 23].
Appointed Thomas Beecher, Sylvia Lynn and Jerry Lynn to the Committee on Property for second 4-year terms (terms
expire 2019) and appointed Sylvia Lynn as Secretary of the Committee [Jul 23].
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Appointed Pastor James Arter to the Credentials Committee for a second 3-year term (term expires 2018) [Jul 23].
Appointed Pastor Paul M. Gruesu, Pastor Jeffrey L. Schock and Pastor Michael J. Sourwine to the Synod Resource
Center Advisory Board for second 3-year terms (terms expire 2018) [Jul 23].
Appointed Pastor Ann E. Schmid as chairperson of the Mission Endowment Fund Board of Directors for a 4-year term
(term expires 2019) [Jul 23].
Appointed John R. Frantz and Holly Schmitt to the Audit Committee for second 3-year terms (terms expire 2018) and
appointed Holly Schmitt as chairperson. [Jul 23].
Appointed the following persons to the Committee on Constitution and Bylaws with terms expiring in 2016 [Jul 23].
Edward W. Sites, Chairperson
Pastor David Snyder
Ms. Kathleen Bryte
Mr. John Kepple
Mr. John Wilver
Mr. Charles O. Zelby, JD
Pastor Larry E. Kemp, JD
Mr. Jack Bauer
Mr. Theodore Schroeder, JD
Appointed the following persons to the Archives/History Committee with terms expiring in 2016 [Jul 23].
Mr. Aaron O’Data, Chairperson
Pastor Ralph F. Kusserow
Mr. Loran Bohman
Ms. Barbara Frey, Secretary
Ms. Kathy Bedford
Ms. Jacquelyn Felix
Appointed the following persons to the Synodically Authorized Ministries Oversight Committee with terms expiring in
2016 [Jul 23].
Pastor Edward F. Sheehan (Assistant to the Bishop)
Pastor Sarah M. Lee-Faulkner (Assistant to the Bishop)
Pastor Beverly Banyay (Ministry Committee)
Pastor Robert F. Zimmerman (Outreach Committee)
Jeannette Christensen (Executive Committee)
Appointed the following persons to the Administrative Board of Abiding Ministries [Oct 10].
The Rev. Brian Evans
Ms. Patricia McKenty
Mrs. Fran Mazur
The Rev. Dr. Blair Morgan
The Rev. Ross Carmichael
Mission Developer, Christine Rotella (DM)
First Lutheran Church, Downtown Pittsburgh
First English Lutheran Church, Sharpsburg
New Hope Lutheran Church, Freedom
SAWC Board (Illinois) Representative
Director of Evangelical Mission, SWPA Synod
Synod Council Representative
St. Andrew Lutheran Church, Shadyside
Ex-officio
Affirmed the appointment of the following persons to the Administrative Board of Abiding Ministries [Oct 10].
Mr. Alex Hawkins
Mr. Darryl Bailey
Mr. Rupert West
Mr. Steve Muck
Mr. Mark DiPietrantonio
Abiding Ministries
Abiding Ministries
Abiding Ministries
Muck Foundation
CPA with Schneider Downs
Appointed the following persons to the Committee on Congregational Life with terms expiring in 2019 [Oct 10].
Pastor Richard Krug
Kenneth Neundorf
Dotty Zaffutto
Pastor Michael Robinson
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Appointed the following persons to the Committee on Youth Ministry with terms expiring in 2019 [Oct 10].
Pastor Brian Bennett
Pastor Ryan Kobert
Virginia Kreisel
Kyra Short
Deacon Amy Santoriello
Appointed Pastor Jocelyn Johnston as Chair of the Committee on Church in Society with a term expiring in 2018; and
appointed Pastor Linda Theophilus as Secretary of the Committee on Church in Society with a term expiring in 2017
[Oct 10].
Appointed Marsha Davis as Resource Person to the Committee on Global Mission [Oct 10].
Appointed the following persons to the Committee on Resource Development with terms expiring in 2016 [Oct 10].
Pastor Joe Boomhower, Chairperson
Pastor Joel Benson
Mr. William Luft
Pastor Paul D. Poerschke
Appointed the following persons to the Ecumenical Affairs Committee with terms expiring in 2016 [Oct 10].
Pastor Robert A. Gago, Chairperson
Pastor Natalie L. G. Hall
Pastor William A. Hower
Pastor Patricia A. Mohr-Kelly
Pastor Kimberly A. Rapczak
Jean Kestner
Diaconal Minister Richard C. Mohr-Kelly
Cheryl Arter
Pastor Lota Jones
Pastor Jennifer McCurry
Appointed the following persons to the Budget and Finance Committee with terms expiring in 2016 [Oct 10].
Pastor Frank S. Podolinski, Jr., Chairperson
Pastor William B. Diehm
Janet Enders
Mollie Hibbs
Sylvia K. Lynn
John R. Frantz
Ex-officio: R. Brandon James
Appointed the following persons to the Synod Event Committee with terms expiring in 2016 [Oct 10].
Pastor Peter D. Asplin
Pastor Heather S. Lubold
Andrea L. Dubler (AIM)
Frank W. Baker
Myra L. Fozard
Dennis T. Lane
Kenneth Neundorf
Appointed the following persons to the Nominating Committee with terms expiring in 2016 [Oct 10].
Conference 1 Dean – Pastor Patrice Weirick
Conference 3 Dean – Pastor James Arter III
Conference 5 Dean – Pastor Erin Evans
Appointed Pastor Allyn Itterly secretary of the Congregational Life Committee with a term expiring 2017 [Jan 16].
Appointed Eric Damon to the Property Committee with a term expiring 2019 [Jan 16].
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Appointed Pastor William Schaefer chairperson of the Nominating Committee with a term expiring in 2016 [Jan 16].
Appointed Pastor Robert Schaefer chair of the Synod Assembly Planning Committee effective June 2016 [Jan 16].
Appointed Mr. Keith Devine secretary of the Committee on Stewardship & Financial Support with a term expiring 2019
[Jan 16].
Appointed Trisha Lawless, Luther Rinehart, Pastor Frank Kantz and George Krause to the Council of Lutheran Campus
Ministry in Greater Pittsburgh with terms expiring in 2019 [Jan 16].
Appointed Meredith Schmehl, John Doman and Dana McGuffin as student members of the Council of Lutheran Campus
Ministry in Greater Pittsburgh with terms expiring in 2017 [Mar 12].
Appointed Pastor Jack Delk to the Committee on Stewardship and Financial Support to fill an unexpired position with a
term expiring in 2019 [Mar 12].
Pursuant to Section 102.182 of the Synod’s Bylaws, and due to the unique circumstances of The Lutheran Theological
Seminary at Gettysburg (LTSG) during its transition to a “new school of theology and leadership formation together with
the Lutheran Theological Seminary at Philadelphia”, consent was given by the Synod Council to a one-time agreement
with the Seminary to honor the request that current board members, Mr. Greg Yothers and Pastor Kirk Bish, continue
service on the LTSG Board by appointment of the Synod Council for another 4-year term (terms expire 2020) [Mar 12].
Calls Extended
Authorized the Executive Committee to extend a call to Christine Rotella to serve as pastor of Abiding Ministries as soon
as it is appropriate to do so [Oct 10].
Approval of Rostered Leader Retirements
Pastor Robert L. Musser was granted approval to retire from the active roster of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in
America effective January 1, 2016 [Jan 16].
Pastor Frederick P. Schenker was granted approval to retire from the active roster of the Evangelical Lutheran Church
in America effective January 16, 2016 [Jan 16].
Pastor Allen R. Riethmiller was granted approval to retire from the active roster of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in
America effective June 1, 2016 [Jan 16].
On Leave From Call and Continuation of On Leave From Call
Pastor Natalie L. G. Hall was granted the status of On Leave From Call on the Roster of Ordained Ministers of the
Evangelical Lutheran Church in America up to the completion of her eligible three year term and/or annual review with
the original effective date of May 31, 2015 [Jun 13].
Pastor Peter Nordby was granted the status of On Leave From Call on the Roster of Ordained Ministers of the Evangelical
Lutheran Church in America up to the completion of his eligible three year term and/or annual review with the original
effective date of November 1, 2015 [Oct 10].
Pastor Debra Thompson was granted the status of On Leave From Call on the Roster of Ordained Ministers of the
the original effective date of January 1, 2016 [Jan 16].
Pastor Pat Mohr-Kelly was granted the status of On Leave From Call on the Roster of Ordained Ministers of the Evangelical
Lutheran Church in America up to the completion of her eligible three year term and/or annual review with the original
effective date of January 1, 2016 [Jan 16].
Deacon Richard Mohr-Kelly was granted the status of On Leave From Call on the Roster of Diaconal Ministers of the
Evangelical Lutheran Church in America up to the completion of his eligible three year term and/or annual review with
the original effective date of December 1, 2015 [Jan 16].
Pastor Beth Ann Reese Hawk was granted the status of On Leave From Call on the Roster of Ordained Ministers of the
the original effective date of March 28, 2016 [Mar 12].
Pastor Amy L. Allen was granted a one year continuation of the status of On Leave From Call on the Roster of Ordained
Ministers of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America for graduate studies up to the completion of the one year
extension with the original effective date of July 18, 2016 [Mar 12].
Pastor Larry Kemp was granted the status of On Leave From Call on the Roster of Ordained Ministers of the Evangelical
Lutheran Church in America up to the completion of his eligible three year term and/or annual review with the original
effective date of January 1, 2016 [Mar 12].
Finances
Deferred authorizing grants to congregations from the Emily Navratil Estate Fund Earnings until January 2017 provided
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that the fund is at its original principal value of $207,676 and earnings are at or above $10,000.
Property
Authorized the Property Committee to consider and accept a bid for the replacement of the HVAC system at the synod
office in an amount not to exceed $175,000 so that the HVAC replacement project can be completed in a timely fashion
[Jan 16].
Constitution and Bylaws
Approved the Constitution and Bylaws of Nativity Evangelical Lutheran Church, Allison Park as recommended by the
Committee on Constitution and Bylaws [Jul 23].
Approved the Constitutions of Saint John’s Evangelical Lutheran Church, North Versailles; Saint Paul’s Evangelical
Lutheran Church, Uniontown; Paintertown Evangelical Lutheran Church, Irwin; Spring Church Evangelical Lutheran
Church, Apollo; Hebron Evangelical Lutheran Church, Blairsville as recommended by the Committee on Constitution
and Bylaws [Jan 16].
Approved the constitution and/or bylaws of the following congregations as recommended by the Committee on Constitution
and Bylaws [Mar 12].
Constitution and Bylaws Constitution and Bylaws
Constitution
Constitution Constitution
Constitution
Bylaws Saint James, Ligonier
Saint Peter’s Evangelical Lutheran Church
Bethel Lutheran Church
First Evangelical Lutheran Church
Forks Zion Evangelical Lutheran Church
Oak Grove Lutheran Church
Saint Andrew Lutheran Church
Grace Evangelical Lutheran Church
Saint John’s Evangelical Lutheran Church
Saint Mark’s Evangelical Lutheran Church
Saint John’s Evangelical Lutheran Church
Saint Paul’s Evangelical Lutheran Church
Saint John’s Lutheran Church of Highland
Evangelical Lutheran Church of the Good Shepherd
Ligonier
Evans City
Ford City
Apollo
Leechburg
Zelienople
Shadyside
Manorville
Ford City
Jeannette
Connellsville
Hazelwood
Pittsburgh
Greensburg
Sharpsburg
Other Actions of the Synod Council
Ms. Christine A. Rotella, a Diaconal Minister on the roster of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America; Mission Developer
of Abiding Ministries, a Synodically Authorized Worshipping Community; and who is currently in the synodical candidacy
process for ordained ministry in this Church, was authorized to preside at Holy Communion at Abiding Ministries or in
congregations of our synod, on an annual renewable basis, as assigned by the Office of the Bishop (ELCA Constitution
Section 7.60.01) [Jun 13].
Ms. Sherry Hazuda, currently in the Candidacy process and recently accepted into the TEEM program of our Church, and
who has been serving for the past two years as a Lay Worship Leader at Holy Trinity Lutheran Church, was authorized
to preside at Holy Communion at Holy Trinity Lutheran Church, Beechview on an annual renewable basis as assigned
by the Office of the Bishop (ELCA Constitution Section 7.60.01) [Mar 12].
Mrs. Barbara Ravenstahl was authorized to continue to serve as the Synodically Authorized Minister for Faith Evangelical
Lutheran Church, Natrona Heights, for the coming year (calendar year 2016) [Mar 12].
Mr. Ernie Waxbom, a formerly rostered pastor who left the clergy roster of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America
in good standing, be authorized to preside at Holy Communion in congregations of our synod on an annual renewable
basis (calendar year 2016) as assigned by the Office of the Bishop (see ELCA Constitution Section 7.60.01) [Mar 12].
Adopted amendments to the Resolution Establishing the Mission Endowment Fund [Jul 23].
Referred the matter of “Congregation Recognition” in the May 2009 Resolution to Establish the Congregation Legacy
Fund (Synod Policy C89-C92) to the Committee on History and Archives for recommended action; the Committee on
History and Archives to provide a status report to the Synod Council by March 2016 [Jul 23].
Approved the Bylaws for the Administrative Board of Abiding Ministries [Oct 10].
Authorized the Capital Campaign for Glade Run Lutheran Services to be extended by six months, through December
2016, provided that the ministry continues with vitality [Jan 16].
Approved, with profound sorrow, the action of Christ Rupp Lutheran Church to terminate its relationship with the Evangelical
Lutheran Church in America effective December 28, 2015 [Jan 16].
Approved the appointment of an Ad Hoc Committee to review the 2014 compilation of the synod’s special funds including
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board designated funds, unrestricted undesignated funds, temporarily restricted funds, special ministry and event funds,
special appeals funds and permanently restricted funds and to make recommendations for consolidation and/or potential
use to the Synod Council by its May 2016 meeting [Jan 16].
Appointed Pastor Ann Schmid, Mr. Dennis Lane, Pastor Frank Podolinski, and Mr. Lynn Landis to the Ad Hoc Committee
to review the 2014 compilation of the synod’s special funds including board designated funds, unrestricted undesignated
funds, temporarily restricted funds, special ministry and event funds, special appeals funds and permanently restricted
funds and to make recommendations for consolidation and/or potential use to the Synod Council by its May 2016 meeting
[Jan 16].
Adopted the recommendations of the Ad Hoc Committee following their review of the synod’s special funds including
board designated funds, unrestricted undesignated funds, temporarily restricted funds, special ministry and event funds,
special appeals funds and permanently restricted funds; and empowered the Executive Committee and synod staff to
effect the changes necessary to accomplish the recommendations [Mar 12].
Re-affirmed support of Abiding Ministries and Three For One as Synodically Authorized Worshipping Communities of
the Southwestern Pennsylvania Synod [Jan 16].
Affirmed the synod’s normal process for the purpose of electing members to the Board of Directors of Lutherlyn recognizing
that the Lutherlyn Board has the ability to recruit and appoint people of their choosing outside of the board to assist with
the transition process and/or search committee without those persons being board members [Mar 12].
Conveyed to the elected council of Our Savior Lutheran Church, Ambridge and their pastor, Jill McGregor, the understanding
of the Synod Council that our church’s policy that prohibits dual roster membership applies in principle to the situation
involving Our Savior member Roxie Costanza who has been ordained as pastor of a church called Back to Basics
Bible Believers. The Synod Council understands that Mr. Costanza has by his actions forfeited his membership in the
congregation of Our Savior Lutheran Church. (See No Dual Roster Membership: In accordance with bylaw 8.72.15.d.,
an ordained minister of this church who enters the ordained ministry of another church body, or who joins a religious group
or congregation of another church body (except as provided in 7.41.17.b.), or who serves a group schismatic from this
church or from a congregation thereof, shall cease to be a member of this church. The ordained minister’s name shall
be removed from the roster of ordained ministers by the bishop of the synod, who shall report the action to the secretary
of this church and to the next Synod Assembly) [Mar 12].
Synod Assembly
Adopted the Lay Voting Member Formula for the 2016 Synod Assembly as the formula listed for conference meetings in
the Synodical Bylaws (105.14) with an amendment to include “one additional lay voting member who is under the age
of 21 at the time of the Synod Assembly” (105.14 and amendment shown in bold font provided below) [Jan 16].
(105.14) The voting body at a conference meeting shall consist of 2 lay voting members (one male,
one female) from each congregation, one additional lay voting member who is under the age of
21 at the time of Synod Assembly, and their ordained ministers; as well as associates in ministry,
members of the Deaconess Community of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America, and diaconal
ministers, under call on the lay roster or rosters of the synod who hold membership in a congregation of
that conference; ordained ministers and members on the lay rosters of the synod serving in specialized
ministries and retired ordained ministers who hold congregational membership in that conference; and
pastors on leave from call who are not undergoing discipline and who hold congregational membership
in that conference. However, if a retired ordained minister or a pastor on leave from call is serving as an
Interim Pastor for a congregation, that ordained minister shall function as a member of the conference
to which the congregation being served is a member and not function at that time as a member of the
conference in which he/she holds congregational membership. Each congregation with a baptized
membership of more than 600 but less than 850 shall be entitled to 1 additional lay voting member.
Each congregation with baptized membership of 850 or more but less than 1,000 shall be entitled to
2 additional lay voting members. Each congregation with baptized membership of 1,000 or more but
less than 1,250 shall be entitled to 3 additional lay voting members. Each congregation with baptized
membership of 1,250 or more but less than 1,500 shall be entitled to 4 additional lay voting members.
Congregations which have a baptized membership of 1,500 or more shall be entitled to an additional
lay voting member for each increment of 250 additional baptized members. Additional voting members
from each congregation shall be divided equally between male and female if there is an even number
of additional voting members. If there is an odd-number of voting members, the odd numbered voting
member may be either male or female.
Approved the Recommendation of the Synod Assembly Planning Committee that the Synod Assembly in 2016 which
will be held at California University of Pennsylvania be scheduled for two days (Friday and Saturday, June 17 and 18)
rather than three days (June 16-18) as previously planned [Oct 10].
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Approved the recommendation of the Synod Assembly Planning Committee that the 2017 Synod Assembly be held at
California University of Pennsylvania [Jan 16].
Set the registration fees for the 2016 Synod Assembly as follows: $105 for commuters; $140 for resident double room;
$160 for resident single room [Jan 17].
Designated offerings from the worship services at the 2016 Synod Assembly be equally divided between Lutheran
Immigration and Refuge Services (LIRS); Synod Lutheran Disaster Response (LDR) and ELCA World Hunger [Jan 17].
Authorized the payment of $25 from synod funds for campus housing fees for each retired pastor who attends the 2016
Synod Assembly as a non-commuter and utilizes campus housing [Jan 17].
Recommendations to the 2016 Synod Assembly
1. That the program and order of business for the 2016 Synod Assembly be adopted.
2. That the following Mission Support Formula be adopted for 2017:
As congregations, we ask our members to give proportionately according to the gifts God has
entrusted to them. As the Church, we ask our synods to give proportionately as they have been
blessed. As the Southwestern Pennsylvania Synod, we encourage each congregation to also give
proportionately. Each congregation is asked to give a minimum of 12% of its current operating
expense to synodical Mission Support. If you are below 12%, please set a goal for your congregation
to grow to at least 12%, according to the gifts God has entrusted to you. If it will take more than
one year, take a faithful step toward that goal in 2016. The Synod Council may request consultation
with congregations which have decreased their commitment from the previous year.
3. That the proposed Synod Budget for 2017 with a 48% level of mission support to the ELCA be considered
and adopted.
4. That changes to the Minimum Compensation Guidelines for 2017 for Full-Time and Part-Time Ordained
Ministers be adopted ($50 increase for continuing education; add “full-time and part-time”; combine guidelines
for Providing a Housing Allowance and Providing a Parsonage into one guideline document).
5. That changes to the Minimum Compensation Guidelines for 2017 for Diaconal Ministers, Deaconesses and
Associates in Ministry be adopted ($50 increase for continuing education; combine all lay rosters into one
guideline document).
6. That changes to the Minimum Compensation Guidelines for 2017 for Interim Ministry be adopted (add
“Congregations are to provide proportionate subsidy for health insurance” for Transitional Interim).
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$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
YOUTH MINISTRY
Programs & Events Expense
Programs & Events Revenue
Youth Leadership Development
Committee
TOTAL
GLOBAL MISSION
Companion Synod Program
Fair Trade Revenue
Fair Trade Products
Fair Trade Expense
Committee
Mission Events Expense
Mission Events Revenue
TOTAL
$
$
CONGREGATIONAL LIFE
Ministries Expense
Ministries Revenue
Committee
TOTAL
EXPENDITURES
ELCA Proportionate Share (55/50/47.5/48%)*
TOTAL REVENUES
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
3,138
(7,388)
6,500
103
132
2,485
13,870
(8,862)
40
5,047
1,759
(1,455)
3
306
974,900
1,947,810
1,772,545
40,315
55,337
31,856
18,300
15,000
12,028
535
1,080
381
433
Actual
Results
2010
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
20
20
6,080
(6,425)
171
37
(137)
872
(45)
29
855
836,700
1,842,517
1,669,426
3,725
46,678
250
35,033
14,098
23,950
16,695
15,000
4,000
11,182
1,125
658
443
254
Actual
Results
2011
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
731
731
4,104
(3,145)
349
31
1,338
1,345
(236)
1,109
812,430
1,778,897
1,623,084
525
3,426
23,012
32,508
234
13,937
25,100
22,928
15,000
4,000
11,775
626
896
1,677
169
Actual
Results
2012
Budget Worksheet
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
368
368
284
(225)
59
648
648
774,266
1,752,258
1,629,533
500
1,330
26,000
6,183
6,067
25,800
23,616
15,000
12,192
733
5,252
51
Actual
Results
2013
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
(300)
55
(245)
2,020
(525)
1,495
2,330
(555)
32
1,807
773,036
$ 1,744,912
$ 1,626,794
$
650
$
3,831
$
$
23,422
$
10,566
$
$
17,650
$
31,362
$
15,000
$
$
12,784
$
722
$
$
2,108
$
23
Actual
Results
2014
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
-
8,108
(7,840)
268
2,904
(2,000)
904
719,692
$ 1,663,727
$ 1,514,362
$
779
$
$
$
24,230
$
29,976
$
9,559
$
23,400
$
16,544
$
15,000
$
$
13,643
$
423
$
$
15,783
$
28
Actual
Results
2015
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
200
1,000
(1,000)
200
20,000
(20,000)
500
200
700
4,900
(3,900)
200
1,200
793,920
1,770,000
1,654,000
30,000
10,000
30,000
22,000
10,000
12,000
1,000
500
500
Synod
Budget
2016
SW PA Synod
of the ELCA
- 2017
Synod Council Recommended Budget
REVENUES
Mission Support from Congregations
Mission Support from Individuals
Synod Restricted Mission Support
Additional Congregational Tithe
Investment Portfolio Income
Mission Spending from Board-Designated
Mission Spending from Donor-Designated
Rent
Agency Staff Support
Director-Evangelical Mission Support
Resource Center Subscriptions
Trust/Estate
Royalties
Luther House
Miscellaneous
Interest
Page 1 of 4
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
200
1,000
(1,000)
200
20,000
(20,000)
500
200
700
4,900
(3,900)
200
1,200
777,600
1,714,000
$ 1,620,000
$
$
$
$
30,000
$
10,000
$
$
30,000
$
$
10,000
$
$
12,000
$
1,000
$
$
500
$
500
Proposed
Budget
2017
BULLETIN OF REPORTS
159
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
OUTREACH
Mission Partnership
Ministries Expense
Ministries Revenue
New Ministries
Pilot Projects
Campus Ministry-Pgh
Campus Ministry-IUP
Campus Ministry-WVU
Camp Lutherlyn
Thiel College
Camp Agape
St. Afterschool
Committee
Mission Partners
TOTAL
CHURCH IN SOCIETY
Lutheran Service Society of Western PA
Lutheran SeniorLife
Lutheran Advocacy Ministry in PA
Church in Society Expense
Church in Society Revenue
Inclusiveness & Diversity Expense
Inclusiveness & Diversity Revenue
ELCMA
Lutheran Disaster Response Expense
Lutheran Disaster Response Revenue
Church in Society Committee
PA Lutheran Network
Inclusiveness & Diversity Committee
TOTAL
budget 2017.xls
37,500
19,500
10,500
9,000
2,625
1,875
6,661
(3,360)
1,453
550
86,305
18,166
(8,250)
12,840
1,500
41,700
34,100
33,100
56,000
38,250
4,800
21
232,227
96,050
8,600
1,706
21,789
(20,008)
2,941
5,731
(3,575)
4,238
20
117,491
Actual
Results
2010
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
18,750
9,750
5,250
9,000
1,313
1,875
31,772
(19,617)
1,087
805
10
59,994
13,890
41,700
34,100
33,100
56,000
19,125
4,800
202,715
96,050
2,750
7,563
15,144
(13,424)
(30)
8,426
(5,013)
3,800
115,266
Actual
Results
2011
5,000
5,000
5,000
5,000
1,000
1,500
25,992
(12,225)
599
36,866
10,000
260
3,000
41,700
34,100
33,100
28,000
5,000
2,000
57
157,217
96,050
3,779
13,448
(13,888)
3,547
8,792
(5,320)
3,465
109,872
Page 2 of 4
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
Actual
Results
2012
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
3,000
3,000
3,000
3,000
1,000
1,500
17,092
(11,025)
580
21,147
10,000
60,000
8,150
8,150
20,000
3,000
1,000
1,000
111,300
75,000
3,000
5,376
15,322
(13,939)
3,081
5,562
(5,905)
3,400
50
104
91,050
Actual
Results
2013
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
3,000
3,000
3,000
3,000
1,000
(1,000)
276
2,705
(2,275)
182
12,888
10,000
3,000
66,546
5,000
3,000
1,000
88,546
75,000
4,000
4,584
22,346
(18,049)
3,544
6,408
(7,250)
3,039
171
93,793
Actual
Results
2014
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
3,000
3,000
3,000
3,000
1,000
150
1,658
(1,125)
215
13,898
2,000
1,500
66,546
5,000
3,000
1,000
79,046
75,000
5,000
2,188
18,781
(15,262)
2,971
5,454
(5,156)
2,850
91,826
Actual
Results
2015
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
3,000
3,000
3,000
4,000
1,000
1,000
(1,000)
1,000
(1,000)
10,000
(10,000)
200
14,200
5,000
5,000
(5,000)
7,000
5,000
70,339
5,000
3,000
1,000
200
96,539
88,780
5,000
6,000
15,000
(15,000)
5,000
7,500
(7,500)
5,000
200
109,980
Synod
Budget
2016
- 2017
Budget
Worksheet
MINISTRY
Gettysburg Seminary
Student Grants
Career Development Services
Leadership Support Expense
Leadership Support Revenue
Candidacy Committee
Lay Education Expense
Lay Education Revenue
First Call Theological Education
Internship Support
Committee
TOTAL
Page 2 of 4
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
3,500
3,500
3,500
4,500
1,500
1,000
(1,000)
1,000
(1,000)
10,000
(10,000)
200
16,700
5,000
5,000
(5,000)
7,000
5,000
72,100
5,830
3,500
1,170
200
99,800
88,780
5,000
6,000
15,000
(15,000)
5,000
7,500
(7,500)
5,000
200
109,980
Proposed
Budget
2017
4/19/2016
BULLETIN OF REPORTS
160
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
COMMUNICATION SERVICES
Ministries
Committee
TOTAL
STEWARDSHIP/FINANCIAL SUPPORT
Ministries Expense
Ministries Revenue
ELCA Gift Planner
Committee
TOTAL
REGIONAL/CHURCH WIDE EXPENSES
Region 8 Center for Mission
Meetings & Travel
Staff & Program
TOTAL
SYNOD COUNCIL/CONFERENCES
Synod Council Travel & Meetings
Synod Council Revenue
Synod Assembly Proceedings Expense
Synod Assembly Proceedings Revenue
Conferences & Deans
Sub-Committee Travel & Meetings
TOTAL
RESOURCE CENTER
Resources-Software
Resources-Publications
Advertising
Office Supplies
Director-Salary
Director-Pension & Benefits
Director-Payroll Taxes
Director-Continuing Education
Director-Travel
Miscellaneous
TOTAL
budget 2017.xls
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
200
1,479
503
1,732
16,225
3,007
1,241
1,112
516
26,014
3,438
(407)
60,183
(60,620)
100
550
3,244
6,900
1,164
2,604
10,668
112
112
6,143
122
6,265
13,125
12,000
1,615
(620)
25
125
26,270
Actual
Results
2010
1,580
87,542
(72,679)
150
143
16,736
6,980
187
1,217
8,384
218
218
3,193
7
3,200
13,125
12,000
23
440
(226)
39
25,400
225
1,518
522
Director
expenses in
staff support
$
562
$
400
$
$
3,227
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
Actual
Results
2011
3,483
66,705
(64,018)
222
757
7,149
7,060
646
1,625
9,331
376
100
476
2,194
164
2,357
5,000
6,000
465
100
11,565
Page 3 of 4
280
1,501
386
Director
expenses in
staff support
$
745
$
497
$
$
3,410
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
Actual
Results
2012
1,337
75,891
(73,648)
824
196
4,600
7,190
2,170
852
10,212
-
573
40
613
3,000
6,000
919
(548)
30
9,401
280
1,725
72
144
Director
expenses in
staff support
$
330
$
408
$
$
2,959
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
Actual
Results
2013
3,086
90,480
(76,930)
425
57
17,118
7,210
556
5,776
13,542
54
(100)
(46)
1,949
166
2,115
3,000
6,000
1,088
(792)
23
9,319
280
1,373
322
Director
expenses in
staff support
$
470
$
352
$
$
2,797
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
Actual
Results
2014
2,533
55,803
(65,174)
127
412
(6,299)
6,680
1,130
3,757
11,566
-
911
28
938
3,000
6,000
3,941
(3,415)
9,526
80
1,723
52
244
Director
expenses in
staff support
$
265
$
49
$
$
2,412
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
Actual
Results
2015
2,500
(100)
75,000
(75,000)
250
250
2,900
7,030
720
1,300
9,050
1,000
(500)
10,000
200
10,700
1,800
200
2,000
1,000
7,000
500
(500)
200
8,200
300
2,400
500
900
Director
expenses in
staff support
$
$
$
150
$
4,250
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
Synod
Budget
2016
- 2017
Budget
Worksheet
ECUMENICAL AFFAIRS
Christian Associates of Southwest PA
National Workshop on Christian Unity
Ministries Expense
Ministries Revenue
Committee
Religious Executive Forum
TOTAL
Page 3 of 4
2,500
(100)
75,000
(75,000)
250
250
2,900
7,230
720
1,300
9,250
1,000
(500)
10,000
200
10,700
1,800
200
2,000
1,000
7,500
500
(500)
200
8,700
300
2,400
500
900
Director
expenses in
staff support
$
$
$
150
$
4,250
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
Proposed
Budget
2017
4/19/2016
BULLETIN OF REPORTS
161
274,714
-
$
$
Net Gain/(Loss) after Funds Transfer
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
-
158,753
$
$
(158,753) $
2,001,270
1,164,569
392,875
140,058
15,833
27,311
576,077
130,537
13,193
1,300
145,030
2,684
953
3,637
1,652
379
1,000
916
3,947
Actual
Results
2011
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
-
64,190
$
$
(64,190) $
1,843,087
1,030,657
371,303
131,273
14,225
29,736
546,536
120,025
13,346
1,300
134,671
1,170
303
1,473
3,168
93
526
345
2,000
425
6,556
Actual
Results
2012
-
15,150
999,483
411,563
152,754
14,849
24,117
603,283
129,181
16,408
1,328
146,917
359
1,142
1,501
1,443
195
291
10
2,000
714
4,653
Actual
Results
2014
$
$
-
27,607
986,156
415,538
174,724
14,940
25,183
630,385
129,969
15,289
1,314
146,572
271
271
1,443
177
310
249
2,000
663
4,842
Actual
Results
2015
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
-
42,120
$
$
(42,120) $
$ 1,705,847
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
(27,607) $
$ 1,772,519
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
(15,150) $
1,767,408
993,143
396,427
146,143
16,969
26,770
586,308
126,327
16,007
1,300
143,634
3,752
3,752
3,543
256
560
294
2,000
440
7,092
Actual
Results
2013
* (ELCA Proportionate Share shown represents 55% for 2008-2010; 50% for 2011-2012; 47.5% for 2013-2015; and 48% for 2016-2017)
$
$
(274,714) $
2,222,524
1,247,624
Transfer from Board Designated Funds
$
OPERATING EXPENSE SUB-TOTAL
372,199
151,196
15,628
26,141
565,164
$
$
$
$
$
$
SYNOD STAFF SUPPORT
Staff Compensation/Housing
Staff Pension & Benefits
Employment Taxes & Insurance
Travel & Meetings
TOTAL
139,985
14,501
2,670
157,157
Operating Surplus/(Deficit)
Deficit indicated by parentheses
$
$
$
$
BUILDING/OPERATION/
ADMINISTRATION COSTS
Facilities/Equipment/Operations
Legal & Accounting
Synod Archives
TOTAL
2,880
1,728
80
4,688
$
$
$
$
$
CONTINGENCY/ADJUSTMENTS
Support/Counseling Fund
Support to Congregations
Congregational Resource Team
TOTAL
1,774
23
527
182
1,674
4,180
TOTAL EXPENDITURES
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
Actual
Results
2010
$
(94,173) $
-
1,098,430
456,000
178,360
18,640
30,000
683,000
125,000
16,000
1,500
142,500
-
1,600
600
550
2,000
1,800
6,550
Proposed
Budget
2017
(162,030)
-
(162,030)
$ 1,876,030
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
(94,173) $
1,864,173
1,070,253
433,849
182,196
15,239
30,000
661,284
125,000
16,000
1,500
142,500
-
1,600
600
550
2,000
1,800
6,550
Synod
Budget
2016
Worksheet
Southwestern Pennsylvania SynodBudget
- 2017
DIRECTOR FOR EVANGELICAL MISSION
Travel
Meals
Lodging
Continuing Education
Administrative Support
Event Registrations
TOTAL
Page 4 of 4
BULLETIN OF REPORTS
BULLETIN OF REPORTS
REPORT OF THE DEAN OF CONFERENCE ONE
Hello from Conference 1. We have been steady as she goes sharing the Good News throughout the Conference.
Each month the Beaver County part of the Conference meets to share and catch up on the happenings with our sister
congregations and fellow pastors. There have been lots of tears and lots of laughter.
Two of our sister congregations (Trinity, New Brighton and Lutheran Church of the Redeemer, Monaca) recently
voted to join together in cooperative ministry and to call a pastor together. Rehoboth Church, Economy Borough called
Pastor Susan A.G. Irons as their pastor this past year. Trinity Lutheran Church, Avalon and Good Shepherd Lutheran
Church, New Castle are in the call process to call a new pastor. The Reverend Christine Rotella was ordained over
this past year to serve Abiding Ministries in Pittsburgh. The Reverend Timothy Dawes completed his required Lutheran
studies to be called as pastor to the Mid Mon Valley Lutheran Parish (MMVLP) in the southern part of our synod. Tim
was a member at House of Prayer Lutheran Church in Aliquippa. It has been good to get to know Tim and his family as
they traveled through the church process. Angela Smith, who is a member at Oak Grove Lutheran Church, is serving
her internship at Grace Lutheran Church, Rochester.
We are sad that this summer Pastor Thomas Moog will be retiring. Even though we will miss him, we wish him well
in his retirement (Wait! Do pastors really retire?). This year for our monthly gatherings in Beaver County we have been
traveling to different churches in the cluster so that the newer pastors can acquaint themselves with them. There is lots
of ministry going on throughout Conference 1. We continue to support each other as we do God’s work with our hands
sharing the Good News brought to us through Jesus Christ.
The Rev. Patrice Weirick, Dean, Conference One
REPORT OF THE DEAN OF CONFERENCE TWO
Conference Two has seen a welcome influx of pastors since our last report.
•
Pastor Kimberly van Driel was installed at First English, Butler
•
Pastor Bob Zimmerman was called to St. John, Mars
•
Pastor JJ Lynn was called to Emmanuel, Etna in addition to being called at First English, Sharpsburg
•
Pastor Paul Lubold was called to Christ, Millvale
•
Pastor Jennifer Fuhr has been called to Trinity, Wexford
•
Pastor Brandon Johns has been called to St. Peter’s, Evans City
•
Pastor Margarethe Galbraith-Cordes has been called to English, Zelienople
We are grateful to the pastors who serve as interim pastors, local interim pastors and long-term interim pastors while
congregations are in the process of determining their future staffing possibilities.
We continue to gather in several clusters for Bible study (Butler, Zelienople, and North Hills), which enrich our
ministries through God’s Word and through the collegiality we share. Together we continue to find ways to be in ministry
for the sharing of the Gospel to glory of God.
The Rev. Heather S. Lubold, Dean, Conference Two
REPORT OF THE DEAN OF CONFERENCE THREE
I am honored to be serving as Dean of Conference 3. In these times of challenge and change, I am blessed to be
joined together with sisters and brothers who are committed to sharing the Lutheran witness in our communities. I am
also grateful for the support and guidance of Bishop Kusserow, his assistant, Pastor Sheehan, and everyone at the
synodical and denominational levels who share in our ministry.
In conference 3, there is much to celebrate. There is also much to grieve—and commit to prayer…
A group of pastors and lay worship leaders meets every Tuesday morning at First in Leechburg for Eucharist and
to study the lectionary texts. This group continues to provide tremendous support and meaningful fellowship for all who
participate.
In April, Lutheran SeniorLife partnered with Armstrong County Memorial Hospital to open a brand-new LIFE Center
that provides valuable medical and rehabilitation services, along with social activities for residents of the county.
In August of 2015, over thirty laypersons from nearly a dozen congregations attended a workshop to learn and
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BULLETIN OF REPORTS
discuss providing Eucharistic ministry to the sick, homebound, and imprisoned.
In late 2015, Christ Lutheran Church in Kittanning Township voted to end their relationship with the ELCA. This
subsequently led to the termination of a long-standing parish relationship with Emmanuel Lutheran Church in Ford City.
Our greatest challenge continues to be leadership. In 2015, our former Dean, Pastor Kevin Mackey accepted a new call
outside our synod. Presently, we have six congregations served by local interim pastors, with worship leadership provided
by supply pastors and lay worship leaders from the synod. It has become increasingly necessary for congregations to
raise up lay leaders from within their own ranks for ministries that would previously have been fulfilled by called pastors.
While this is an exciting display of the Holy Spirit at work, it is also a great source of anxiety. Congregations ask: what
is our future—and who will lead us? Do we have a future?
Our greatest opportunity is collaboration. Despite all the challenges, there is a lot of great ministry happening. Our
congregations and leaders can be of great support to one another, and by working together, we can impact more and
more lives through our common Lutheran witness.
I look forward to continuing my service by the help of the Holy Spirit, and by the mutual support of my sisters and
brothers in the faith.
The Rev. James V. Arter III, Dean, Conference Three
REPORT OF THE DEAN OF CONFERENCE FOUR
It has been an honor and a privilege to serve as Dean for Conference 4 this past year. The Pre-Assembly Conference
4 caucus was held on the evening of May 31, 2015 at Prince of Peace Lutheran Church in Latrobe, where Rev. William
Schaefer passed the Dean baton. Rev. Roger Steiner was elected secretary and the Conference 4 cabinet consists of
Rev. Robert Schaefer and Ms. Anna Sarver.
The rostered leaders of Conference 4 met with those of Conference 3 in the fall and Conference 5 in the spring
for joint Bishop and Assistant to the Bishop Luncheons. Both gatherings were wonderful opportunities to strengthen
relationships not only within our conference but with leaders in our neighboring conferences to build up our ministerium.
Congregational events that have occurred in Conference 4 since the June 2015 Synod Assembly include conversations
about cooperative ministry in some of our smaller ministry sites, which will open up a wealth of opportunities for mission
and ministry. One such ministry site is the congregation at Trinity Lutheran Church in Verona which extended a call to
the Reverend Tricia Schneck to serve half-time beginning April 3.
We rejoiced in December to learn the Reverend Sarah Rossing was called to St. James Lutheran Church in
Youngstown. She was ordained in January at the Lutheran School of Theology at Chicago by Bishop Kusserow.
While we are all navigating the changes, duties and expectations of the role of Dean in our synod, I am looking
forward to the development of collegiality not only within our conference but with our neighbors.
The Rev. Melissa L. Stoller, Dean, Conference Four
REPORT OF THE DEAN OF CONFERENCE FIVE
Greetings from Conference 5! Good things are happening here - collegiality and fellowship abound!
few noteworthy highlights from 2015.
Here are a
I was elected Dean at the Conference Caucus at St. Paul’s Monessen, and would like to thank our Conference
Secretary, Mr. Patrick Cloonan, and our Conference Cabinet members, Ms. Melanie Thomas and The Reverend Janice
Altenburger, for their willingess to serve.
Your Former Dean, the Reverend Robert Gago retired in the middle of the year, and we wish him well! The Reverend
Jack Hernstrom has returned to Conference 5 as the interim at St. John Mark, Homestead. The Reverend George
Mendis has joined us to serve as interim of Immanuel, Irwin.
We welcomed The Reverend Timothy Dawes to the ELCA roster – and installed him as a pastor in the Mid-Mon
Valley Lutheran Parish.
St. John, Glassport officially closed at the end of the year. The Reverend Michael Ryan served as local interim,
and retired pastor and dean, the Reverend Robert Gago, walked with the congregation through the closing and selling
of their building.
Each Wednesday a small group of clergy gather at Faith Lutheran in White Oak for a regular text study. Another
group gathers Wednesdays at St. Paul’s, Monessen, and on Tuesdays there’s a group gathering at St. Paul’s Uniontown.
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BULLETIN OF REPORTS
If you are not already involved in a rostered leaders group – or even if you are! – please consider joining us for fellowship
and study.
We gathered for our Annual Fall Luncheon with Conference 4, at St. Mark’s in New Stanton. We were blessed to
hear a report from the Bishop about his sabbatical studies and reflections. Our 2016 spring luncheon with Conference
6 took place at Faith, White Oak. Thanks to each church who hosted and fed us!
Each congregation in this conference has vital ministry going in their area – no matter their size or shape. Many
congregations are also experiencing the blessings of collaborating in ministry with their neighboring churches in both
formal and informal partnerships. We are supported by the staff of the synod office, and especially thank the Reverend
Sarah Lee-Faulkner, Assistant to the Bishop, for her regular presence and work in our congregations. We are grateful
to Bishop Kurt Kusserow for his servant leadership, guidance, and care.
The Rev. Erin E. Evans, Dean, Conference Five
REPORT OF THE DEAN OF CONFERENCE SIX
My Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ,
It was an unexpected honor to be elected Dean of Conference Six last spring. Like most pastors, I am called to
leadership in my congregation. But I was surprised to be called to leadership by my peers and the lay leaders of the
conference and am blessed by their confidence in me.
As a good Scandinavian, I would note primarily that “it’s been a quiet year in Conference Six.” Our thirty congregations
continue to maintain capable Word and Sacrament ministries in the communities of the far southwest corner of our state.
The over 1,800 individuals who grace our congregations weekly hear the good news proclaimed, taste grace in the bread
and wine of Holy Communion, are washed in the waters of Holy Baptism and are assured of their forgiveness in the
absolution. The thirteen called pastors and many retired pastors and lay rostered leaders of the conference endeavor to
continually share the message our Church proclaims weekly, that we are “saved by grace through faith.” During the past
year we have rejoiced and mourned as some of our clergy leadership have moved on to new phases of their ministry;
we pray for them and for congregations that continue to discern their calling in this New Century.
May 2017 continue to be blessed by God as 2016 most assuredly was as well.
Yours in Christ,
The Rev. Peter D. Asplin, Dean, Conference Six
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BULLETIN OF REPORTS
REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON NOMINATIONS
This year’s slate of nominees is very small compared to other years. The positions for this year’s slate were received
from the Southwestern Pennsylvania Synod Secretary, Jeannette Christensen, and the work of the committee began. All
of the positions on this year’s slate are to fill positions for the boards of directors of the various agencies and institutions
of the synod. With prayerful consideration, the committee worked to fill the nomination spaces for the following boards:
Bethesda Children’s Home, Lutheran SeniorLife, Lutheran Service Society, and Camp Agapé.
This year’s committee was made up of the Rev. Bill Schaefer (Chair), the Rev. Patrice Weirick (Dean, Conference 1),
the Rev. Jim Arter (Dean, Conference 3), and the Rev. Erin Evans (Dean, Conference 5). The committee met twice, on
February 2 and on March 3. The vast majority of the work of the committee was done between the meetings by contacting
prospective nominees and sending out the nomination forms for the nominees to submit for the Bulletin of Reports.
Thank you to the Reverend Sarah Lee-Faulkner for her oversight and coordination of the committee and to Sandy
DeLorenze for her help with the committee’s paper work, correspondence, and emailing. We could not do our work
without theirs.
The Rev. William A. Schaefer, Chairperson
PLEASE NOTE THAT NOMINATIONS FOR CLERGY IN A CONGREGATIONAL CALL ARE CONTINGENT UPON THE SUBMISSION OF THE 2014
PAROCHIAL REPORT FOR THE PASTOR’S CONGREGATION. ANY CLERGY NOMINEE WHO HAS A CALL TO A CONGREGATION/PARISH
THAT HAS NOT SUBMITTED ITS PAROCHIAL REPORT BY THE TIME OF SYNOD ASSEMBLY WILL BE INELIGIBLE TO BE PLACED ON A
BALLOT. (See Southwestern Pennsylvania Synod Bylaw 102.15: Nominations from the Nominating Committee, from the Conferences, and
from the floor for any office shall not include those parish pastors who have failed to submit the completed Annual Parochial Report for
the previous year.)
BETHESDA CHILDREN’S HOME/LUTHERAN SOCIAL SERVICES - Board of Directors
LAYPERSON (3-year term; one position - vote for one)
Brenda Eagan Brown, Program Coordinator, PA Brain Injury School Consulting............. Good Shepherd, New Castle
1891 Old State Road, New Castle, PA 16101............................................................................................. Conference 1
*Gregory A. Furer, Certified Financial Planner.............................................................................Bethlehem, Glenshaw
114 Douglas Drive, Pittsburgh, PA 15215.................................................................................................... Conference 2
LUTHERAN SENIORLIFE - Board of Directors
CLERGY (3-year term; one position – vote for one)
*James W. Dollhopf, Retired Pastor................................................................................................Nativity, Allison Park
215 Filbert Road, Butler, PA 16001............................................................................................................. Conference 2
*William B. Diehm, Pastor.......................................................................St. John’s of Highland, Pittsburgh (North Hills)
1886 Sample Road, Allison Park, PA 15101................................................................................................ Conference 2
LAYPERSON (3-year term; two position – vote for two)
*Ron Coombs, Chief Financial Officer, Non-Profit RIDC........................St. John’s of Highland, Pittsburgh (North Hills)
2554 Shellburne Drive, Wexford, PA 15090................................................................................................ Conference 2
Marilyn D. Landis, President, CEO & Founder, Basic Business Concepts..................................Bethlehem, Glenshaw
114 Shannon Drive, Pittsburgh, PA 15237.................................................................................................. Conference 2
Kurt Herbst, Financial Associate for Thrivent Financial.........................................First English, Pittsburgh (Downtown)
121 Laurel Crest Drive, Wexford, PA 15090................................................................................................ Conference 1
James Cunningham, Fundraising Executive....................................................................................First English, Butler
406 Stoneridge Boulevard, Butler, PA 16001.............................................................................................. Conference 2
THE LUTHERAN SERVICE SOCIETY OF WESTERN PENNSYLVANIA - Board of Directors
CLERGY (3-year term; one position- vote for one)
*Allyn K. Itterly, Pastor............................................................................... Prince of Peace, Pittsburgh (Pleasant Hills)
153 Betty Rae Drive, Pleasant Hills, PA 15236........................................................................................... Conference 6
*Incumbent
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BULLETIN OF REPORTS
Tricia Schneck..............................................................................................................................St. Mark’s, Springdale
714 Willruth Drive, Allison Park, PA 15101.................................................................................................. Conference 3
CLERGY OR LAYPERSON (1-year term; one position - vote for one)
Wayne F. Franzen, Retired Mechanical Engineer....................................... Prince of Peace, Pittsburgh (Pleasant Hills)
321 Picture Drive, Pittsburgh, PA 15236..................................................................................................... Conference 6
Brandon A. Johns, Pastor........................................................................................................... St. Peter’s, Evans City
242 Van Buren Street, Evans City, PA 16033.............................................................................................. Conference 2
OHIO VALLEY LUTHERAN BIBLE CAMP ASSOCIATION (AGAPÉ MINISTRIES) – CAMP AGAPÉ
Board of Directors
CLERGY OR LAYPERSONS (3-year term; two positions - vote for two)
*Karen Shaffer, Retired Food Service Specialist......................................................St. Andrew, Pittsburgh (Shadyside)
1005 Pemberton Street, Pittsburgh, PA 15212.............................................................................................Conference 3
Timothy Dawes, Pastor....................................................................................................................Christ, West Newton
1017 Vine Street, West Newton, PA 15089..................................................................................................Conference 5
Charles M. Churby II, Certified Caregiver................................................................................ St. Andrew’s, Brownsville
6535B National Pike, Grindstone, PA 15442................................................................................................Conference 5
*Dennis T. Orsen, Retired Pastor............................................................................... Emmanuel, Pittsburgh (Eastmont)
420 Nike Drive, Pittsburgh, PA 15235..........................................................................................................Conference 4
*Incumbent
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BULLETIN OF REPORTS
REPORTS OF THE COMMITTEES
REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON CHURCH IN SOCIETY
“Public life, in service of the public good, is a reflection of our createdness as beings-in-relationship who are called
to witness to God’s love for this beautiful and broken world.” – Cynthia Moe-Lobeda, Public Church: For the Life of the
World
I took on the role of chairperson of the Church in Society Committee in the fall of 2015. Therefore, my ability to report
on the work of this committee throughout the year is limited. Instead, I will focus more on the hope for our continued
and future work.
We look forward to improved connections and collaborations with other committees of the Synod. To use one of
Bishop Eaton’s key phrases: “We are church together.” It is our hope that the Church in Society Committee will continue
to work and grow in ways that allow us to be a resource to the congregations and individuals of the Southwestern
Pennsylvania Synod for issues including, but not limited to: hunger, poverty, racism, the environment, immigration and
refugees, public policies and advocacy, the LGBT community, gender and domestic violence, and criminal justice.
We are grateful for the work of the Reverend Paul Lubold, who ended his time on the staff of LAMPa (Lutheran
Advocacy Ministry in Pennsylvania) this past year.
Thank you to the members of the committee, old and new, especially for your support and patience with me in this
new role.
The Rev. Jocelyn Johnston, Chairperson
Committee on Church in Society
Chairperson: The Rev. Jocelyn Johnston
Secretary: The Rev. Linda O. Theophilus
Synod Council Representative: Kelly Spanninger
ClergyLaypersons
The Rev. Ross I. Carmichael
Diane Santoriello
Staff: The Rev. Edward F. Sheehan, Assistant to the Bishop
REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON COMMUNICATION SERVICES
The Communication Services Committee has had several meetings and discussions this past year with the goal
of determining the new and ongoing services we can provide to the synod and all of its congregations. As a first step,
the video team has used the new, high-tech equipment to help several congregations develop videos that support
stewardship campaigns. These professional-quality videos have been informative, innovative and led to successful
campaigns.
We also have continued to post information on the Facebook page and produce the quarterly insert for The
Lutheran magazine. And, we are working with the synod staff to develop a new electronic newsletter to streamline
communications throughout the synod.
At the same time, we continue to need your input to hear news from across the synod, to understand your needs,
and to identify ways we can continue to evolve this ministry to better serve you. Please:
• Email us at [email protected] to submit your news, information or suggestions—or to ask questions
about any of our communication tools
• Post news, information and photos to the Facebook page (SWPA Lutheran Synod) in addition to submitting to the
Echo and the website
• Provide information, updates and photos for Sandy DeLorenze to post to the website
• Suggest events and ministries that could benefit from our new video equipment
• Write or suggest articles for the insert to The Lutheran magazine
• Tell us about your other communication needs and ideas
We thank everyone who has contributed information in the past year or put our services to good use. We hope to
hear from more of you in the coming year. The easiest way is to use the email address above.
And finally, many thanks to our committee members, whose dedication to good communications, new technology,
and this Synod and its congregations is awe-inspiring.
Janice G. Jeletic, Chairperson
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BULLETIN OF REPORTS
Committee on Communication Services
Chairperson: Janice G. Jeletic
Secretary: Myra L. Fozard
Synod Council Representative: The Rev. Brian B. Chaffee
ClergyLaypersons
The Rev. Tara R. Lynn
Gene O. Fozard
Bruce M. Letterle
Judith J. Rogers
Carrie Nurnberger-Lane
Nadine Simon
Resource Persons: Dennis T. Lane; Holly O. Schmitt
Staff: The Rev. Sarah M. Lee-Faulkner, Assistant to the Bishop
REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON CONGREGATIONAL LIFE
The Congregational Life Committee is a resource and support for congregations as they continue to be welcoming
and caring communities of faith in an ever changing culture. In 2015, a booklet, “Resources for Ministry with LGBT
Persons and Communities”, was prepared and distributed to congregations. Two events were also provided for clergy
and laity to further inform on these issues. The committee will continue to provide such events and information.
Other areas in which the committee might provide information and support are also under consideration. The
diminishing size and aging of some of our congregations, racism, providing care for the disabled in our congregations,
the rise of classism are but a few of the issues under consideration. Other suggestions from congregations and pastors
are welcomed. After all, we all share in the beautiful mission of being communities of faith that are open, welcoming
and caring.
The Rev. James W. Dollhopf, Chairperson
Committee on Congregational Life
Chairperson: The Rev. James W. Dollhopf
Secretary: The Rev. Allyn K. Itterly
Synod Council Representative: Sarah Lundie
ClergyLaypersons
The Rev. Richard W. Krug
Rachelle Fritz
The Rev. Michael H. Robinson
Kenneth W. Neundorf
Dorothy Zaffuto
Staff: The Rev. Sarah M. Lee-Faulkner, Assistant to the Bishop
REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON GLOBAL MISSION
The Committee has continued its connection to the Tulear Synod in Madagascar, building on the relationships
strengthened during the Synod Mission Trip to Madagascar in 2014. Members of the committee continue to share the
story of the trip, and of our Lutheran sisters and brothers, as we speak to pastors and congregations across the synod.
Congregations that desire to have a presentation about the trip are encouraged to contact the synod office.
The highlight of the committee’s work this last year was a Global Mission Event, hosted at St. John’s Lutheran
Church, North Versailles, October 24-25. Over the weekend, attendees had the opportunity to see a display with items
brought back from the trip (including vanilla extract made from genuine Madagascar vanilla beans), eat a typical meal
that would be served in Madagascar, see a power point presentation of the trip, and interact with several of the eight
synod members who went on the trip.
Our synod is one of four ELCA synods that have companion synods in the Malagasy Lutheran Church. Representatives
from the Central Southern Illinois Synod, the West Virginia-Western Maryland Synod, the Rocky Mountain Synod, and
the Southwestern Pennsylvania Synod met in August in Chicago to coordinate our ministry in partnership with the
Malagasy Lutheran Church. The group also connected with Global Health Ministries, a Lutheran agency that has been
doing much with the Malagasy Lutheran churches in the area of improving their system of health care.
A particular focus of the August Consultation was several upcoming elections for president (bishop) in the Malagasy
Church. Both Presiding President Modeste and President Trabonzy of the Tulear Synod are retiring this year. The four
bishops from the four ELCA Synods have committed to traveling to Madagascar in February 2017, to meet the new
Presidents, and to keep our connectedness to each other in Jesus Christ strong.
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BULLETIN OF REPORTS
Our synod continues its relationship with the Tulear Synod through Alice Curry. Alice is a member of East Liberty
Lutheran Church and is serving for one year as a Young Adult in Global Mission (YAGM) in Tulear. You can read her
blog at www.peace2thishouse.wordpress.com
Currently, the committee is undergoing a transition in leadership. If you have an interest in connecting with Lutherans
in Madagascar and around the world, contact Pastor Ed Sheehan at the synod office. The opportunity to learn from our
brothers and sisters in differing cultures and places is a wonderful thing!
The Rev. Edward F. Sheehan, Assistant to the Bishop
Committee on Global Mission
Chairperson: (vacancy)
Secretary: (vacancy)
Synod Council Representative: Janet Flecken
ClergyLaypersons
(vacancies)
Carole Higenbothum
Miranda Pino
Resource Person: Marsha L. Davis
REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON MINISTRY
The Ministry Committee is responsible for affirmation and support of all rostered leaders as well as laity in their
ministries. The guiding principles we include when considering support to ordained and other rostered ministers is that
we should enhance the unique needs of the church while considering issues of fairness and justice The committee
oversees the continuing education for clergy and rostered lay leaders, the candidacy preparation program and provides
a liaison to seminarians. The committee is grateful for all the other committees that assist in the affirmation and support
of our synod’s ministers.
This year our Synod Council asked us to prepare guidelines for part-time ministers since there has been an increase
in calls for less than full-time ministry. In March the committee presented its minimum compensation guidelines to
include both part-time and full time calls.
By action of the 2015 Synod Assembly, the Resolution that “prior to the August 2016 Assembly, the Committee on
Ministry will provide education about the role and evolution of the present Word and Service rosters in the life of the
Church for this synod’s 2016 Churchwide Assembly voting members and its congregational and synodical leadership
for the sake of strengthening collegiality and our shared evangelical mission through baptism as the Body of Christ” had
been addressed in the following manner:
1. Pastor Sheehan has been in contact with Pastor Cherlyne V. Beck, Program Director, Support of Rostered
Leaders, ELCA, to arrange for a presentation at the pre-assembly orientation for our synod’s voting members to
the 2016 Churchwide Assembly.
2. When the time and date of that information session has been scheduled, arrangements will be made for others to
access the presentation.
Our synod’s CANDIDACY COMMITTEE continues to work in conjunction with the West Virginia-Western Maryland
Synod to oversee the process of preparation of candidates for ordained and lay rostered ministers. This committee also
examines rostered persons transferring from another denomination or seeking reinstatement. Prospective seminary
students or other candidates are encouraged to contact the Reverend Ed. Sheehan at the synod office for more
information.
CONTINUING EDUCATION AND SUPPORT FOR ROSTERED LEADERS is provided through the annual
Theological Convocation at Antiochian Village.
THE LAY SCHOOL OF THEOLOGY at Thiel College continues under the excellent leadership of Lana Keplinger.
FIRST CALL THEOLOGICAL EDUCATION is designated to assist rostered leaders in their first three years of
ministry and service. Our thanks to the pastors who mentor our rostered leaders during their first years in our synod.
SUPPORT FOR LAY MINISTERS continued this year with an Aaron’s Ministers and Lay Worship Leaders workshop
on October 29, 2015. Bishop Kusserow, Pastor Sarah Lee-Faulkner and Pastor Ed Sheehan facilitated the workshop.
The committee continued to review the recommendations of the ELCA WORD AND SERVICE TASK FORCE which
is creating the unified roster of Word and Service ministry, currently three rosters including: Deaconesses, Diaconal
Ministers and Associates in Ministry
Our committee continues to monitor and study issues related to our vast resources with retired rostered leaders,
clergy serving in specialized ministries and others who support ministries vital to our congregations, committees and
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BULLETIN OF REPORTS
synod. Our thanks to Pastor Ralph Kusserow and Grace Kantz for their work with our retired rostered leaders.
The Rev. Beverly J. Banyay, Chairperson
Committee on Ministry
Chairperson: The Rev. Beverly J. Banyay
Secretary: The Rev. Margaret Ann Suhr-Barkley
Synod Council Representative: The Rev. William Schaefer
ClergyLaypersons
The Rev. Kimberly A. Rapczak
Christopher Atwood
The Rev. Christine A. Rotella
Sally Shirey
The Rev. Kimberly M. van Driel
Mark Nurnberger (AIM)
REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON OUTREACH
The mission of the Outreach Committee is to nurture renewal in existing congregations and to encourage new
mission starts. We serve as the “mission table” for our synod and offer various tools for our congregations and their
pastors as they seek to strengthen or revitalize their mission:
Congregation Mission Discernment and Planning: We are using a variety of resources, including but not limited
to the revised “Manual for Congregational Mission Planning, Discerning God’s Mission For Our Congregation.” Teams
are available to assist congregations with a time of spiritual discernment, Bible study, prayer and intentional conversation.
This is a time to develop or re-visit their plan for mission. The goal often is renewal of the congregation and re-connecting
with the community in which the congregation is located. Congregations can use the resource independently or invite
the committee to facilitate the planning process.
Opening Doors Grants: The Outreach Committee continues to have limited funds available to congregations to
provide “seed money” for new ministries that reach out to the community. Please visit our page on the synod website for
more information and a grant application.
Encouraging New Mission: As the tools for renewing congregations have been put into place, the Committee
on Outreach has established a subcommittee serving as a New Ministry Team to encourage and support new mission
opportunities within our synod.
The committee also continues to work with and support established congregations that are receiving mission
partner support from the ELCA.
Outreach Committee members are available to work with congregational leaders in your setting. Each of the
congregations of our synod has aspects that make them unique. Therefore, the committee recommends that each
congregation have a discussion with our Director for Evangelical Mission, Pastor Blair Morgan, regarding the mission
challenges you face and the ways this committee may be of assistance to you. We continue to discern how to best reach
congregations with the resources we offer.
I am grateful for the many gifts and shared commitment to evangelical mission of the members of our committee.
Many thanks also go to Pastor Blair Morgan, our Director for Evangelical Mission, for his assistance, guidance and
support.
The Rev. Robert Zimmerman, Chairperson
Committee on Outreach
Chairperson: The Rev. Robert F. Zimmerman
Secretary: The Rev. Melba T. Dibble
Synod Council Representative: Susan Devine
ClergyLaypersons
The Rev. Joseph Murdy
Keith Otto
The Rev. Karen C. Thompson
Staff: The Rev. Dr. Blair W. Morgan, Director of Evangelical Mission
REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON PROPERTY
The Property Committee has the responsibility to manage and maintain the synod campus and to suggest capital
improvements that will enhance the ministry of the synod.
In February and March of 2015 the Committee began work on a long range plan for the synod campus by meeting
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with synod staff, the committees of the synod, the Resource Center, and other stakeholders that use the synod office
for work, meetings, and other activities. Following these consultations the committee engaged a real estate agent to
explore options for use of the property by one of our social ministry organizations or other entities. In short, because
of property setbacks and zoning, we dropped the idea of the participation of other agencies in developing the property,
and decided to concentrate our efforts on the synod office building.
Several immediate needs have delayed the development of the long range plan for the synod property. In July,
it was discovered that one of the supporting pillars on the Ingomar Road side of the building had completely rusted
through, causing that corner of the building to drop about 3/4 inch. Further inspection made it clear that another pillar
was failing. Landau Building Company was engaged to deal with this emergency at the cost of $29,975.97. This work
restored the integrity of the building.
The committee met with the company that services our HVAC system and learned that it was at the end of its life.
The committee recommended to the Synod Council that the system be replaced. Replacement of the system was put
out for bid, and after engaging a mechanical engineer to advise us, it was decided in early 2016 to award A-Comfort
Service a contract at a cost of $183,000.00.
During 2015 and early 2016 we also worked on the issue of signage on the building and sought bids to renovate the
restrooms used by our tenant in the bottom floor of the synod office building.
As you read this report, it is my hope that we will have a recommendation from the architect engaged by the
committee to help us plan the redesign and enlarging of the chapel/conference room, reconfiguring the entryway and
vestibule, upgrading restrooms, and reconfiguring the space used by the synod staff.
The Bishop and the Synod Council have been consulted as we move through the process of implementing this
phase of the long range plan. It is the committee’s hope to have a recommendation for the Bishop and Synod Council
to implement this part of the long range plan by the fall of 2016.
I would like to thank the members of the committee for their faithful work on behalf of us all.
The Rev. George W. Mendis, Chairperson
Committee on Property
Chairperson: The Rev. George W. Mendis
Secretary: The Rev. James V. Arter, III
Synod Council Representative: Dennis T. Lane
ClergyLaypersons
The Rev. Paul L. Lubold
Thomas H. Beecher
The Rev. Matthew Stabe
Intern Eric Damon
Jerry Lynn
Sylvia Lynn
Robert J. Cairns, Synod Accountant
REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON STEWARDSHIP AND FINANCIAL SUPPORT
“With this in mind, we constantly pray for you, that our God may make you worthy of his calling, and that by his
power he may bring to fruition your every desire for goodness and your every deed prompted by faith. We pray this so
that the name of our Lord Jesus may be glorified in you, and you in him, according to the grace of our God and the Lord
Jesus Christ.” 2 Thessalonians 1:11-12
Our focus in 2015 was set on assessing the current direction of our committee and what we are offering to the
synod. We are praying for our congregations to know the desires of God and to empower them to glorify our Lord Jesus.
The results were enlightening and energizing to give us direction for the coming year.
We are in our fifth year with our Stewards for Stewardship learning events; focusing on building Stewardship leaders
within our congregations. As part of our assessment this year, we took a look at any impact these trainings have had.
Our findings revealed that 10% of the congregations attending these events have significantly increased their giving to
Mission Support. We have to assume this increase would be reflected in the support of their congregations as well. This
year’s events were led by our own Reverend Dr. Blair Morgan. In the fall we received a grant from the Stewardship of
Life Institute out of the Lutheran Theological Seminary at Gettysburg. These funds will enable us to bring in a guest
speaker for the 2016 program.
We provided a Devotional booklet for Church Councils and a Stewardship handbook. Both resources were handed
out during the Synod Assembly to be good stewards of our finances. Both booklets can also be found on the synod’s
website.
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We had two committee members travel to Chicago to be instructed in Stewardship Coaching. They have both completed their training and are moving on to training others.
Overall Mission Support receipts fell this year. Only 43% of the congregations reached their pledged commitment
goal. Unfortunately 10% of our congregations did not remit any Mission Support for 2015.
We are thankful for the support we received throughout the synod and look forward to a new and exciting year
ahead.
I want to thank the members of our committee for their dedication to building a better understanding of stewardship
within our synod and for praying for Mission Support from our congregations. Pastor Blair Morgan continues to be an
inspiration and spiritual leader of our committee. Many thanks to the hard work of Ray Dittenhafer, Jill Shook, Pastor
Frank Podolinski, Keith Devine, Jean Adams, Ray Prosser and Pastor Nathaneil Christman.
Barbara Nugent, Chairperson
Committee on Stewardship and Financial Support
Chairperson: Barbara Nugent
Secretary: Keith Devine
Synod Council Representative: Jill A. Shook
ClergyLaypersons
The Rev. Frank S. Podolinski, Jr.
Jean Adams
The Rev. Nathaneil Christman
Raymond Dittenhafer
The Rev. Jack A. Delk
Ray Prosser
Staff: The Rev. Dr. Blair W. Morgan, Director of Evangelical Mission
REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON YOUTH MINISTRY
Last year’s comprehensive report gave a good summary of each of the synod youth ministries that happen during
the year. Here are some highlights from 2015 and great stuff coming up!
One focal point of the year for many of our congregations was the ELCA Youth Gathering in Detroit. Some
congregations traveled together via the synod bus, and others planned their own trips. Our youth and adults worshipped
and served side by side with 30,000 Lutherans from all over the country. The next ELCA Youth Gathering is June 27July 1, 2018 in Houston, Texas. Start your planning now!
Something else you could plan for is a Practice Discipleship Retreat for your congregation! Practice Discipleship is
a series of comprehensive leadership workshops designed by the ELCA Youth Ministry Network. The workshops are
not just for those who work with youth, but look at the whole picture of faith development as a tool for leadership in our
congregations and our everyday life. Practice Discipleship can be used as a leadership training for church councils,
leadership teams, and Christian education teams.
At this point, youth of eight congregations are deep into the study of the books of Ruth, Esther and Daniel for our
annual Bible Bowl. Best of luck to those competing in the coming months! Look for the Bible Bowl Books announcement
at Synod Assembly!
Stay at Home Mission Work Camp continues to provide a low cost, high impact local mission trip for youth in the
Pittsburgh area. The congregations and leaders involved shape this week with fun, work and prayer built around a
deep commitment to the needs of our neighborhoods.
In its 5th year, Sunday Night Live continues to bring youth and adults together month after month. New congregations
are participating all the time and we are always looking for youth groups and congregations to host our evenings. Look
for some format changes next year and more intentional relationship building.
We gather with youth grades 6-12 from around the synod each spring for our annual Youthfest retreat at Lutherlyn.
Be sure to keep your eyes open for young leaders gathering with us during Synod Assembly. Many of these
youth are attending as voting members for their congregation and are housed together for an intentional community of
learning and fellowship. Youth Convo has been a vital part of our synod in assembly for many years and we continue to
raise up young leaders year after year. Is there a youth in your congregation who would benefit from this experience?
If you’re in Convo, and you’re reading this report at assembly – I’m proud of you and I’m glad you’re here! You should
come to the Youth Leadership Event at the Lutheran University Center. Just ask your leaders about it…
Consider recommending a youth from your congregation to attend the 2nd Annual Youth Leadership Event at the
Lutheran University Center. Last year’s event, Go and Do Likewise, focused on Good Samaritan Leadership. This
year, we turn to Moses and the team of leaders who helped lead God’s people out of Egypt in Exodus 3 and 4 (Ex. 4:13)
Look for the flier in your Assembly Pack and save August 3rd for this special event!
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Join all your Lutheran friends for a great time on July 18, 2016 for Lutheran Day at Kennywood! There are discount
tickets available for congregations and Morning Prayer with the Bishop is scheduled for that day!
Our committee, appointed by the Synod Council, meets every other month to oversee the execution of all these
various ministries and coordinate planning. Regular cross-pollination happens at Sunday Night Live monthly, as these
events are announced and reported on. The Synod Youth Summit is an informal group of adults who love working with
youth and want to share ideas and brainstorm new models together. This group meets quarterly during the day for
lunch and fellowship. Their support is vital to making ministry happen with our youth.
For more information about any of this, be sure to check the Southwestern Pennsylvania Synod ECHO frequently,
and look for us on Facebook: Southwestern PA Synod LYO. Feel free to contact me with comments, questions, or your
desire to volunteer!
The Rev. Erin E. Evans, Chairperson
Committee on Youth Ministry
Chairperson: The Rev. Erin E. Evans
Secretary: Andrew Sabol
Synod Council Representative: Erik Nordby
ClergyLaypersons
The Rev. Joel A. Benson
Elizabeth Heckert
The Rev. Brian Bennett
Virginia Kreisel
The Rev. Ryan Kobert
Kyra Short
Amy Santoriello, DM
Resource Person: The Rev. Christina A. Hough
Staff: The Rev. Sarah M. Lee-Faulkner
REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON ARCHIVES AND HISTORY
The History and Archives committee has been making progress on our initiatives to collect the histories from member
congregations for the past ten years. We have done so by creating an easy and accessible online questionnaire. This allows
information to come to the committee in an organized format with access given to all committee members in order to spread
out the work load of writing for the history book. As of March 14, 2016, there have been 33 responses. We continue to attempt
to get the word out about this questionnaire and seek responses.
Under the leadership of committee member and secretary, Barb Frey, the committee is moving forward with our new
emphasis of educational outreach. Barb has created the first of what will hopefully be a string of History and Archives Workshops
designed to bring awareness to the importance of records and history preservation, articulate the specific importance of history
for members of the Body of Christ, and outline the requirements stipulated by the ELCA for congregational record keeping.
Under the leadership of committee member Loran Bohman, the committee has been working to provide information to the
Southwestern Pennsylvania Synod on a commemorative plaque for those congregations who have contributed to the Legacy
Fund at the time of their dissolution.
Under the leadership of committee members Pastor Ralph Kusserow and Loran Bohman, the committee was able to
provide information at last year’s annual Synod Assembly regarding our records survey. This survey was instrumental in
allowing our committee to gain an understanding of not only the current scope of the records maintenance of the congregations
of the synod, but also allowed for a practice run of electronic information gathering.
As the year progresses, it is the hope of this committee to gather more information from congregations in order to make
progress on the history book for the synod. Furthermore, we will continue to seek and accept opportunities to provide educational
outreach designed at improving the preservation of history within our synod.
Aaron O’Data, Chairperson
Addendum:
I want to express my personal thanks to this hard-working group of people! Aaron’s leadership, along with his education
and professional experience, has inspired this committee and brought new life to its work. Each committee member has been
instrumental in bringing an excitement and interest in the preservation of the histories of our synod’s congregations. Thank you
for your time and efforts in this ministry.
Elizabeth A. Caywood, AIM
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Archives and History Committee
Chairperson: Aaron O’Data
Secretary: Barbara Frey
ClergyLaypersons
The Rev. Ralph Kusserow
Loran Bohman
Jacquelyn Felix
John Hutton
Pat Hutton
Staff: Elizabeth A. Caywood, Associate in Ministry
REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON ECUMENICAL AFFAIRS
The committee serves to “assist the Bishop in coordinating inter-Lutheran, ecumenical, and interfaith activities” (Synod
Bylaw 104.3). It also encourages and supports the work of various ecumenical agencies as well as the Pittsburgh Religious
Leaders Forum. The committee each year sends representation from our synod to the National Workshop on Christian Unity.
I would first like to thank the members of the Ecumenical Affairs Committee for their service to this committee and for their
efforts in all things ecumenical as they relate to the life and work of our synod. Members of the Ecumenical Affairs Committee
are:
Bishop Kurt Kusserow The Rev. Robert Gago, Chair
Mrs. Cheryl Arter The Rev. Brian Bennett
The Rev. Timothy Dawes The Rev. Natalie Hall Jean Kestner
The Rev. Lota Jones
The Rev. Pat Mohr-Kelly
Deacon, Rich Mohr-Kelly
The Rev. Jennifer McCurry
The Rev. Kim Rapzack
The past year was a year of transition for the Ecumenical Affairs Committee. First, I would like to thank The Reverend
William Hower for his service as he submitted his resignation and will no longer be part of this committee. An additional word of
thanks to those new members of the committee who joined us this year: The Reverend Brian Bennett, The Reverend Timothy
Dawes, The Reverend Jennifer McCurry, and The Reverend Lota Jones, a Methodist pastor who also serves a Lutheran
congregation.
Throughout this past year, the committee continued its work of reviewing and keeping a hand on the pulse of ecumenism
within the territory of the synod and through our life in the ELCA. We received regular reports from Bishop Kusserow regarding
his activity as our chief ecumenical officer throughout the synod as well as his participation in Christian Associates and the
Christian Leaders’ Fellowship.
The committee continued to work toward strengthening our ties with our Full Communion Partners. Once again on January
21, 2016 at our invitation in celebration of the Week for Prayer for Christian Unity, clergy representing our full communion
partners joined together for Eucharist and conversation over lunch at St. John’s Lutheran Church in North Versailles. Special
thanks to Pastor Richard Krug and the congregation of St. John’s Church for hosting this annual gathering.
Ongoing discussions by our bishop with representatives of our Full Communion Partners continue to discuss ways in
which we might further implement and enhance grass-root partnerships in locally shared and cooperative ministries with our full
communion partners. The committee also coordinated a joint Chrism Mass, Renewal of Ordination Vows, and Eucharist with
the Pittsburgh Diocese of the Episcopal Church, USA at Trinity Cathedral in downtown Pittsburgh on Tuesday in Holy Week.
Christian Associates continues to be a strong advocate of ecumenism in this region with the Reverend Liddy Barlow as
its Executive Minister. We are blessed in this region to have and to be part of Christian Associates as it advocates and gives
witness to strengthening the work of ecumenism in our area.
The committee looks forward to a Celebration of the 500th Anniversary of the Reformation with a Celebratory Concert
on December 3, 2016 of Elijah with the Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra. The committee is also working with the Pittsburgh and
Greensburg Roman Catholic Dioceses and the Byzantine Catholic Archeparchy of Pittsburgh to celebrate a follow-up event to
the Joint Declaration on Justification, with a joint gathering: The Declaration on the Way.
I would encourage the pastors and congregations of our synod to utilize the on-line resources that are available through
the ELCA on ecumenism. To strengthen an understanding of our relationship with the Islamic Community, I would encourage
our pastors and congregations to visit the ELCA website and download the Document My Neighbor is Muslim. The ELCA
Office for Ecumenical and Inter-religious Relations has an accessible web page at www.elca.org/ecumenical offering several
excellent resources.
Finally, on behalf of the committee, I would like to thank Bishop Kusserow for his dedicated support and forward thinking
leadership in all things ecumenical.
The Rev. Robert A. Gago, Chairperson
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REPORT OF THE MISSION ENDOWMENT FUND BOARD OF DIRECTORS
There are two funds that the Mission Endowment Fund Board administers – the Mission Endowment Fund and the Ethel
L. Verney Fund. The board makes grants and reports them to Synod Council. Both the Mission Endowment Fund and the
Verney Fund were established by Synod Council and are governed by policies and procedures approved by Synod Council.
Applications for both of these funds go out each year through the ECHO and are available on the synod website.
Mission Endowment Fund Grants
Each February the Mission Endowment Fund (MEF) makes grants in the amount of 3% to 8% of the fund’s market value.
Some years that has been close to $10,000. This past February there was only $3,700 to distribute. There were 16 requests
submitted by congregations for a total of about $16,000. Because there were not sufficient funds available, half of the requests
were denied and the remaining applicants received no more than $500. Grants were made for outreach to the local community,
youth programs and food programs. It is the hope of the MEF Board that the fund will continue to grow through bequests and
gifts so that many more worthwhile ministries can be funded in the future.
Ethel L. Verney Fund Grants
The synod received about $160,000 in 2015 in disbursements from the Ethel L. Verney Fund.
Since the last Synod Assembly, grants that were made included Abiding Ministries, a ministry working with immigrants,
a food pantry, and a furniture ministry, all in Allegheny County; a program for at-risk youth in Fayette County; a shelter for
homeless men in Beaver County; and a congregation helping a homeless family in Lawrence County. It is exciting to see
Verney funds being used throughout our synod in a variety of ways.
Members of the MEF Board are John Frantz, Ron Kilgore, Fay Morgan, The Reverends Beverly Banyay, George Mendis,
and Kimberly van Driel, Treasurer Tom Beecher and The Reverend Dr. Blair Morgan (ex-officio). I am grateful for the board’s
careful and faithful deliberation through the year as we endeavor to be good stewards of the gifts we have been given.
The Rev. Dr. Ann Schmid, Chairperson
REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON CONSTITUTION AND BYLAWS
The Synod Committee on Constitution and Bylaws has enjoyed a productive year. The year actually began with the 2015
Synod Assembly. There the CCBL conducted two “Forums” for congregations on updating their constitutions. The Forums
covered process and procedures; assistance available; and helpful suggestions for getting started and making the task as
easy as possible. The Forums were well attended and proved to be a strong stimulus to a diverse group of congregations that
undertook the task of bringing their constitutions into compliance with ELCA requirements.
Throughout the remainder of the year, the CCBL has worked closely with these and other congregations in every conference
on their updates. A total of 56 congregations began the process of completing the updates of which 26 were complete and
approved by the Synod Council as this report went to press. Others are near completion and will likely be approved before the
2016 Synod Assembly.
In August, the ELCA Churchwide Assembly will consider a number of new amendments to the Model Constitution for
Congregations. For all the congregations whose constitutions are up to date, the process of incorporating those amendments
that are adopted by the Assembly will be a very simple, one-time, majority vote at its next annual meeting. As many as 11
chapters could be changed if certain other measures are passed by the Assembly regarding such things as the nature of the
ELCA Roster. The CCBL will have very good resources available to assist congregations through this process and make it as
easy as possible.
The CCBL is grateful to the synod’s officers and the Synod Council for their support throughout the year. The members
of the CCBL this year have been: John W. Bauer, Conference 6; Kathleen Bryte, Conference 2; The Reverend Larry E. Kemp,
Conference 6; John B. Kepple, Conference 2; Theodore Schroeder, Conference 1; Edward W. Sites, Conference 4; The
Reverend David A. Snyder, Conference 1; and Charles O. Zebley, Conference 5. Kathleen Bryte, who served as secretary
of the CCBL since 2014, found it necessary to resign late this program year. The Committee thanks her for her service.
Edward W. Sites, Chairperson
REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON BUDGET AND FINANCE
The Budget and Finance Committee, along with the Bishop, synod staff and Synod Council have been prayerfully and
diligently considering the priorities of our synod and the ministries we share in together as it relates to the formation of a yearly
budget. As voting members from previous Synod Assemblies know, the past years have presented a challenging financial
landscape. However, God’s gift of abundance to each of us and to our congregations calls us to be faithful stewards in our
response by supporting the mutual ministry we share in together. We truly belong to one another in Jesus Christ.
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The Legacy Fund continues to be a vital and helpful blessing during this time in our synod. It is this kind of a fund that
carries with it deep roots of mission and vision. The gift of the Legacy Fund helps to bring about the means of building bridges
that connect the rich and faithful ministry of the past to daily ministry and to God’s very hopeful future. The sustaining of and
growth of the Legacy Fund is a priority for our synod so that the ministry to which God calls us may continue.
Good Stewardship looks like this: ‘prayerfully managing the fund’ and ‘prayerfully using the fund for its intent - Mission
and Ministry. Belonging to one another in Jesus Christ is a great gift and reality that God has given to us! As with any healthy
relationship, mutual care and responsibility are necessary for the Body of Christ in our Southwestern Pennsylvania Synod to
grow and make a difference in our collective ministry together.
There are more realities… The reality of the Holy Spirit moving in the lives of people and helping congregations to
recognize what a difference a congregational commitment of benevolence dollars to our synod means. Our synod rejoices with
the congregations that have discovered this reality of God’s abundant blessing and have responded by making a commitment
for Mission Support this past year. Our Bishop has had the joy to be able to visit congregations and say thank you.
Another reality is that each congregation has a story of where they are in sharing in the mutual care and responsibility as
the Body of Christ. Praise God as the Holy Spirit begins to move in the lives of these congregations through faithful people to
inspire congregations to find a starting place and begin committing Mission Support dollars to the work in which we are all a
part.
Perhaps your congregation will take advantage of the wonderful resource available called ‘Stewards For Stewardship
Workshops’ as well as the resource of Pastor Blair Morgan in his good work with congregations that are looking to develop a
new mission and vision through long-range planning. We truly belong to one another in Jesus Christ and God’s Holy Spirit is
leading us toward this hopeful and exciting future. As can be noted in the 2017 proposed budget, the intention is to keep as a
priority and commitment a consistent and growing level of sharing our synod’s benevolence dollars with the ELCA. As well, it
is important to note the support to the agencies and institutions of our synod.
The most important reality is that our Crucified and Risen Lord, Jesus Christ, is with us as we are ‘church together’ for the
sake of the gospel. Our call to faithful ministry is rooted in this reality that we are witnesses to the empty tomb! It is the hope
of the Synod Budget and Finance Committee and the Synod Council that the financial health of our synod can reflect in the
coming years God’s presence and abundant grace to provide ‘all we need’ to enable us to share the Good News of Jesus
Christ with the world!
The Rev. Frank S. Podolinski, Jr., Chairperson
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REPORTS OF THE AGENCIES AND INSTITUTIONS
REPORT OF THE LUTHERAN THEOLOGICAL SEMINARY AT GETTYSBURG
A NEW SCHOOL OF THEOLOGY: Responding to the call of the churchwide network of theological education,
Gettysburg Seminary concluded that “business as usual” could not and would not continue much longer in governance
and structure of stand-alone seminaries. In January, the boards of Gettysburg and Philadelphia seminaries declared
intention to form a new school of theology, deployed across the two campuses. Following the decision, a Steering
Committee and eight work groups have formed to plan and propose design, structure, budget and timelines for support
of the final decisions by the schools to move forward toward a 2017 start. Watch for up to date report at your synod
assembly about the project to create the first mainstream new school of theology in more than a half century, the newest
school with the deepest roots, and a more sustainable form for theological education.
UNPRECEDENTED STUDENT SUPPORT—TUITION FREE: In keeping with the spirit of the new school project,
both Gettysburg and Philadelphia seminaries announced in February a full tuition offer to seminarians beginning fall
2016. This offer utilizes restricted scholarship funds drawn from the endowment, made available by lower enrollments
and in faith that over time, increased support will sustain this unprecedented offer.
God’s Call; Your Path: MDivForward Launched: Continuing to keep the Gettysburg offer of theological education
and leadership formation on the cutting edge among seminaries, the faculty launched a new Master of Divinity curriculum
with multiple tracks, which beginning later in 2016 will include a “distributed learning” (with more online courses) option.
Public Witness as Confederate Flag Banned: As many in our nation reexamined the display of symbols associated
with the slavery-demanding Confederacy, we banned the historic battle flag from “living history” summer encampments
on our campus, incurring the ire of many on social media sites who deemed the move anti-historical. Most who
responded applauded our seizing an opportunity for bold public witness to the Seminary’s commitments and values.
Faith & Science (AAAS Science & Faith Grants): Led by Professors Mark Oldenburg and Leonard Hummel, the
Seminary was one of only ten schools in the U.S. and Canada to receive a $250,000 grant from the American Academy
for the Advancement of Science. Efforts to equip students and church leaders for stronger engagement with questions
of faith and science include the upcoming 2016 Spring Academy, and greater emphases in courses throughout the
curriculum.
Gettysburg: Quest for Meaning Offers Unique Perspectives: In still another scholarly endeavor, the Seminary
Ridge Press published an anthology of theological and pastoral articles related in various ways to the great Civil War
battle and the ongoing challenges of realizing Abraham Lincoln’s vision of “increased devotion to a more humane,
equitable, and just society.” Available through the Seminary bookstore: 717.338.3005.
Other highlights of the year include:
● 50th Playing of the Lutherbowl flag football tournament;
● Expansion of The Weekend, a discernment event in spring and now fall as well;
● Recognition of Dean Largen’s book “Finding God” by Pacific Coast Theological Society;
● Welcomed Vincent Evener to the faculty in Reformation History;
● Pamela and Michael Cooper-White’s “Exploring Practices” cited among year’s best by Christian Century.
Gettysburg Seminary gains its bold vision and courage from the support it receives from the Synods of Region 8
in the ELCA. Every gift, every student, every prayer and every encouraging word counts in the sustaining of graduate
theological education. Thank you from us all!
Michael L. Cooper-White, President &
Dr. James Lakso, Chair of the Board
REPORT OF THIEL COLLEGE
It is an exciting time for Thiel College as we recently kicked off our sesquicentennial anniversary celebration at
the annual Founders’ Day convocation. There was more historic news to share over Winter Weekend. I was thrilled to
announce that Thiel College surpassed the largest fundraising goal in its history. The Thiel 2016 Campaign exceeded
its goal by raising $61 million. The campaign began its quiet phase in July 2009 and entered the public phase last
October. A number of major gifts in the three months led to the campaign surpassing its goal of $60 million 10 months
early. The campaign will continue through this December.
Over the course of the campaign, Thiel College’s endowment grew from $19 million to $68 million. The campaign
includes $13 million from the largest gift in the College’s history—a $25 million total gift from The Dietrich Foundation—
that established The Kenneth ’31 and Marianna Brown ’32 Dietrich Honors Institute honors program. Many more
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campaign gifts ranked among the largest in school history. Greenville native David E. Baughman bequeathed $3.7
million to fund the Emerson A. Baughman, Agnes F. Baughman and David E. Baughman Endowed Scholarship, which
bestows full-tuition scholarships annually to specific local school district graduates who attend Thiel.
Washington D.C.-businessman and movie producer James Pedas ’50 H’89 provided the lead gift and creative
vision for the $6.8 million James Pedas Communication Center. The Center is a 20,000 square-foot, state-of-the-art
collaborative learning environment and the first Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design-certified building on
campus. Pedas, a Farrell native, and his brother, Ted, were on hand as the building was dedicated in fall 2014.
Other Thiel 2016 Campaign highlights included:
• Four new endowed academic chairs
• Enhanced laboratories and classrooms
• The Rissell-Schreyer Dome, a seasonal structure that gives student-athletes practice space during winter months
• New turf and lighting at Alumni Stadium
• The Rod E. Wilt ’86 Head Coach for Thiel College Wrestling, the first endowed coaching position in the Presidents’
Athletic Conference
The campaign also supported a revised core curriculum and created new scholarship and faculty/student research
opportunities. Future plans include building four showcase science labs, the addition of a science connector, and
completing construction of a track and field complex.
Thiel has also started to develop its next strategic plan, Thiel 2020: Commitment to Excellence. The planning
committee has held a number of meetings and hopes to have an initial draft in the coming months. This plan will be
critical in refreshing our shared vision for Thiel College, and in continuing the positive momentum that we have all
worked together to create.
While we have much to celebrate, there is still much work to be done. I am pleased with several new leadership
appointments that will help in those efforts. Amy Schafer, M.S., was named director of athletics upon the retirement of
Jack Leipheimer ’74. She previously held a number of leadership positions within the department, including assistant
director of athletics and head women’s softball coach, and will be a natural fit for the role. Likewise, Roberta Leonard
was named interim vice president for college advancement after having played a significant role in the Thiel 2016
Campaign. Roberta has been a stable and successful leader in the department for several years and certainly deserves
this opportunity. Finally, Stephen Lazowski, M.ET, was appointed vice president for enrollment management. Stephen’s
leadership in this arena will be important, and I have been very pleased with the progress he has made thus far.
In the summer of 2015, Pastor Jayne Thompson represented Thiel College at the ELCA’s National Youth Gathering
in Detroit, Michigan. In a follow-up to that event, she hosted a youth gathering at Thiel in December. Under the RiseUp
theme from the summer event, Pastor Jayne welcomed youth to campus for an overnight experience which included
worship, fellowship, and community service at our local retirement community, St. Paul’s Homes.
We were also very excited when we learned that we were awarded a $6,000 Hegele grant through our Northwestern
Pennsylvania Synod. This grant will fund a spring break service-learning trip to Washington, D.C. this March. Pastor
Jayne hopes to travel with eight students over spring break to participate in various service initiatives in the area.
Finally, I would be remiss if I did not mention that this will be my last report to the Synod in the capacity of President
of Thiel College. It is with mixed emotions that I share that I have accepted a position to serve as President at Elmhurst
College outside of Chicago, IL. I will vacate my post at Thiel College this August.
Please know that my time at Thiel College has been very special to me and my family. In fact, it has been the
highlight of my professional career thus far. Nonetheless there often comes a time when one feels that they have given
all that they can to help move an organization forward, and that time has come for me. I am extremely proud of what
we have accomplished together at Thiel, and I am very excited to see what is on the horizon for this special institution.
I want to personally thank the numerous members of the ELCA community for helping to make my experience
wonderful! Please continue to stay connected to Thiel College stories of student achievement and success on social
media throughout the year. Find us on Twitter (@thielcollege), “like” us on Facebook (www.facebook.com/thielcollege),
YouTube (www.youtube.com/thielcollege) or visit our website at www.thiel.edu.
Troy D. VanAken, Ph.D., President
REPORT OF BETHESDA CHILDREN’S HOME / LUTHERAN SOCIAL SERVICES
To say that Bethesda Children’s Home, Lutheran Social Services is in a state of change would be an understatement.
Last year began a series of events at our agency that will certainly set the course for the future of our mission. Most
notable is the retirement in June of long time CEO Gene Wisinski. Gene was with the agency for nearly 30 years and
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will certainly be hailed as one of the many past leaders who made an impact on the history of Bethesda’s mission and
ministry. George Trauner, Bethesda’s Operations Director, was named as Gene’s successor. George has been with
Bethesda for more than 21 years in various positions, and brings a wealth of experience, knowledge, and leadership to
his new role.
George has a Bachelor of Science Degree from Slippery Rock University and a Master of Science Degree in
Organizational Leadership from Mercyhurst University. George, his wife Holly, and four children live in Canadohta Lake,
PA. George volunteers as the President of the Board of Directors for the Northwest Tri County Intermediate Unit 5 in
Edinboro. He is also the Board Vice President of the Union City School District.
“My experience and education have prepared me for my new role and I am honored to have been selected for
this position. For me, Bethesda has always been a safe haven for kids where they can find the help they need. As the
CEO of Bethesda, I will direct my team to strive for excellence in all that we do. Bethesda’s identity will remain in the
Lutheran tradition, offering some of the region’s highest quality programs, offering hope and healing to children, youth,
and families. My goal is to expand and grow the agency so that all Pennsylvania families will have access to the services
we offer.”
You may also recall that Bethesda conducted the Rebuilding Lives… One at a Time Capital Campaign in 2012. The
purpose of this campaign was to raise the funds needed to add an addition to our school in Meadville. We are excited
to announce that the new school addition will be open for business this fall 2016. The school project at Bethesda is
the direct result of the generosity of many congregations and individuals in the Southwestern Pennsylvania Synod.
Bethesda’s new 40,000-square-foot school will include six new classrooms, office and meeting space, as well as a new
cafeteria. The school expansion at Bethesda has been a dream of ours for many years now, and thanks to those who
donated their time, talents, and resources, we will be able to provide the best of care to kids that come to us for help.
Other improvements at Bethesda include renovations at our facilities in Erie. Bethesda Leadership Center was
upgraded with state of the art technology, combined with a commercial kitchen, a computer lab, recording and dance
studio. The Leadership Center offers youth, ages 14 to 21, independent living skills to help them become self-sufficient
and lead a better quality of life as adults. The Trinity Center, also in Erie, received many improvements including new
bathrooms, a new commercial kitchen, and the enclosure of our previously outdoor sports court. The Trinity Center
provides after school programs for youth ages 5-15 years old. The facility improvements at Bethesda provide our staff
the ability to continue providing the safest and best possible care that our customers deserve and have come to trust
and expect from Bethesda Children’s Home.
Truly, all of us here at Bethesda are amazed by the blessings of this past year. From the many gifts and donations
made at Christmas time, to the on-going support we receive for our Right Start for Young Mothers program, to the
support for our on-campus school, we are overwhelmed by your generosity. We never take your support for granted.
From the front line staff, to the administration and board of directors, we understand the importance of our partnership
with the Lutheran Church and other organizations.
Bethesda’s partnerships over the years have helped us continue to grow and thrive as an agency. Our residential
units in Meadville, including our Right Start for Young Mothers program, seem to be full a majority of the time, with other
youth waiting to take up an empty bed. Our reputation for caring for kids is something we all take very seriously.
Another first in Bethesda’s history was the achievement of our SWAN (Statewide Adoption Network) affiliation by
our Foster Care Program. The Statewide Adoption Network or SWAN will allow us to facilitate the necessary family
profiles to help in the adoption process. We are very proud of the hard work and dedication of our staff in achieving this
milestone.
Bethesda also received accolades from the Meadville Western Crawford County Chamber of Commerce by being
named Large Nonprofit of the Year. This award is a tribute to the hard work and dedication of the staff and board of
directors at Bethesda Children’s Home.
Finally, Bethesda achieved reaccreditation by the Joint Commission on Health Care Organizations in 2015. Every
three years, Bethesda voluntarily partakes in a survey by the Joint Commission, the industry leader in accrediting quality
and excellence in healthcare services. The JAHCO accreditation is achieved by organizations that consistently uphold
and revise their policies and procedures. Thousands of standards must be met to achieve such an accreditation, and
we at Bethesda have worked hard to ensure we do just that. The accreditation is just another way to prove that we
are continuously implementing new ways to care for our kids and that our long-standing dedication to quality care is
periodically tested and upheld.
George Trauner, CEO
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REPORT OF GLADE RUN LUTHERAN SERVICES
“Light in a messenger’s eyes brings joy to the heart, and good news gives health to the bones.”
– Proverbs 15:30
To say that 2015 was the most challenging year in Glade Run’s history may be an understatement. However, I
write you today from a place of gratitude and hope. As you know, Glade Run Lutheran Services suffered from damning
publicity last fall when two of our youth planned and executed a departure from a group outing, and when a few of our
youth in one residential cottage conspired to engage in inappropriate activity. Though these events were short-lived and
grossly exaggerated by the media, they are a reminder that we must never underestimate the youth we serve and that
we must find ways to continually expand our efforts to ensure their safety.
To understand the challenges we deal with daily at Glade Run it is important to understand the youth we serve.
Agencies that perform our unique manner of God’s work today are, almost without exception, Christian organizations.
There are very few exceptions, because the work is woefully underfunded and the clients are challenging at best and
dangerous at worst. We cannot fault these youth for their behaviors even as we strive to change them, to save them
from themselves and the mental illness that causes emotional and physical harm to themselves and others. Thankfully,
these events are behind us and we continue all of our services uninterrupted. We are grateful to everyone who came to
our aid and defense during this difficult time.
Despite these trials, Glade Run served approximately 4,000 individuals in 2014-15 through our comprehensive
continuum of care. Children from over 30 counties and 116 school districts benefited from our quality mental health,
educational, autism, and cultural program offerings.
Glade Run served over 3,400 individuals through community based offerings that include outpatient counseling,
individual and family mental health and autism offerings, and school based mental health and therapeutic classrooms
in dozens of schools including City of Pittsburgh Public Schools. As I write this, we are expanding our school based
mental health offerings to include Big Beaver schools and preparing to open a new psychiatric rehabilitation program
for adults in Butler. Glade Run now operates community based offerings in Zelienople, Cranberry Township, Pittsburgh,
Beaver Falls, and Butler.
Residential treatment continues to be a needed offering, serving 207 youth on our Zelienople campus in 2014-15.
Programming is effective – over 96% of youth were discharged to less restrictive settings last year. Statewide, demand
for residential program appears to be declining and we continue to evaluate and weigh the risks of operating the program
with the need for this intensive level of care. Children and youth in residential treatment at Glade Run continue to benefit
from additional therapeutic offerings not available elsewhere, including therapeutic yoga, spiritual care programming,
and Glade Run Adventures, our experiential equine, animal, and horticulture program. We have found that participating
in these innovative therapeutic offerings has helped youth reach their therapeutic goals and return to homes and
families more rapidly. Last year spiritual care programming served 204 youth and Glade Run Adventures served 1,200
youth from all program areas.
Education and autism continue to be areas of expansion for the agency. In 2014-15, St. Stephen’s Lutheran Academy
served 396 students with a 100% graduation rate and our largest graduating senior class size of 18. Extended school
year (ESY) summer programming also experienced considerable growth in 2015. In October 2015, Glade Run opened a
second school site, St. Stephen’s Lutheran Academy–North, in Sharon, PA. Today the school is serving 20 students and
continues to receive referrals. Glade Run plans, with board approval, to open a third school site in Utica, PA later this
year. The school building, which will serve students from Venango, Clarion, and other surrounding counties, is located
in the Franklin School District.
Christmas is always a time of joy at Glade Run. The generosity our Lutheran brothers and sisters and our community
in 2015 allowed us to provide gifts to residential, school and community children who would have otherwise gone
without this holiday season. I am always amazed at - and grateful for - the generosity of those who contribute to our
annual gift drive.
We continue to move forward with our exciting agency transformation. While construction delays have slowed some
of the dismantling and construction, we are now poised to move forward with the construction of the Sensory Park and
Jeremiah Village. We are thankful that the Southwestern Pennsylvania Synod has agreed to extend our congregational
campaign, Bridging Community, through December of 2016, which will allow us the opportunity to visit individually with
congregations and solicit their support. If you’ve not yet had a council visit from one of our volunteers, we hope that
you will do so in the next several months. We are excited to share these wonderful projects, which will not only provide
for the unmet needs of those in our communities living with autism, but will also allow us to diversify from government
funding and ensure our self-sustainability for our future.
Heartfelt thanks from the children, families, staff, and board of directors of Glade Run Lutheran Services for another
year of support and service to our mission. We value the gifts of time, talent and treasure offered by our Lutheran
churches, brothers, and sisters.
Pastor Charles T. Lockwood, Ed.D.
President/CEO, Glade Run Lutheran Services
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REPORT OF LUTHERAN SENIORLIFE
A participant in one of the LIFE (Living Independence for the Elderly) programs at Lutheran SeniorLife recently
reflected how she had become quiet and socially reserved because of her restriction to a wheelchair. After several
months in the program, she no longer needs to use the wheelchair, and described to one of our staff the joy she is
experiencing in the LIFE program. “God has been very good to me, giving me a place like LIFE,” she said.
This is one of hundreds of examples throughout Lutheran SeniorLife that captures the essence of what it means to
our organization to help all of those we serve, and those who serve, achieve an Abundant Life®.
Much as Christ left the 99 to seek out “the One”; Lutheran SeniorLife strives in its effort to be efficient and effective
and not overlook the needs of those often forgotten.
The business component for all senior living service providers are facing great challenges to provide and pay for
services. As a ministry, the rewards of serving well have never been more appreciated.
2015 was the first complete year for Lutheran Service Society to operate as part of Lutheran SeniorLife. Just more
than a year ago, its programs, particularly Meals on Wheels, a vital community service, were in jeopardy. In 2016 there
were more meals served to more clients than ever before. Since Lutheran SeniorLife prepares meals for hundreds
of residents every day, partnering with the Meals On Wheels through Lutheran Service Society was a perfect fit for
Lutheran SeniorLife, as was incorporation of several HUD buildings operated by Lutheran Service Society.
The Center at the Mall in Beaver County operated by Lutheran Service Society received the Volunteer Center of the
Year Award from Beaver County, and the Lutheran Service Society Bellevue Senior Center was invited to be one of the
lead Focal Point Centers in Allegheny County in the new Performance Based Contracting format, which will provide an
opportunity to earn funding to improve and increase services.
The core of Lutheran SeniorLife remains its two largest communities, St. John Community in Mars and Passavant
Community in Zelienople. The new facility at Passavant, new villas and cottages, a fitness center and pool and new
models of person-centered care all have brought vibrancy to the Passavant Campus. A new My Day Out Program was
developed last year, offering seniors living at home opportunities to participate in meaningful activities on the Passavant
campus while also giving a respite opportunity for caregivers. Passavant Community was issued a 5-star rating by the
Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS), a testimony to its quality care.
St. John Community includes Overbrook Pointe, apartments for seniors; RoseCrest, assisted living with memory
support; and St. John Specialty Care Center, the skilled nursing and personal care component of St. John. One resident
at St. John, surrounded by new buildings and programs, reminded us that it is still those providing care who matter the
most. She described to a staff member in our Annual Report, how “the staff at St. John never allow her to give up.”
The Commons at Stonebrook Village in McCandless has been near capacity for several years, showing the niche
that it fills in the community.
Visiting Nurses’ Association (VNA), Western Pennsylvania, provides home care services throughout the region, and
there are exciting new plans for the use of its inpatient Hospice program in Butler. VNA celebrated its 50th anniversary
in 2015, maintaining a reputation throughout its history as a leader in the development of innovative programs and
services. Its pediatric care program experienced tremendous growth in 2015 as more pediatricians referred its young
patients for nursing, hospice, palliative care, disease management and counseling. VNA also developed a new program
called Gentle Embrace for patients experiencing Alzheimer’s symptoms. The program uses evidenced-based, nonmedication interventions to reduce symptoms.
Living Independence for the Elderly (LIFE) began serving Armstrong County in 2015 and joins Lutheran SeniorLife
with LIFE programs in Lawrence and Beaver Counties, partnerships with Heritage Valley Health System; and LIFE Butler,
a partnership with Butler Hospital. Enrollment at all locations continues to grow. LIFE Lawrence County celebrates the
anniversary of its two new residences in the community that operate as Small Homes – allowing participants who were
previously in nursing homes to live in a true home environment.
Valley Care, offering day programming to seniors and adults with disabilities in Moon Township and Sewickley,
continues to thrive. Valley Care also celebrated its first anniversary as part of Lutheran SeniorLife. An educational
evening for caregivers was among the programs offered in conjunction with Lutheran SeniorLife, and its second annual
Community Resource Fair in October offered caregiver support through a variety of caregivers and vendors.
One constant at Lutheran SeniorLife is to continue to think with the mind of a business and to serve with the heart
of ministry; and, hopefully, the brand of Lutheran SeniorLife – to provide opportunities for Abundant Life® – serves both
the business and ministry component of the organization.
The Health & Wellness Ministry, a partnership with the Southwestern Pennsylvania Synod of the Evangelical
Lutheran Church in America, touched more than 2,000 congregation members last year from around the synod through
a variety of parish nurse, wellness and related initiatives. As part of that ministry, a resource directory of Lutheran and
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related services is available to the community, in addition to a speakers bureau to offer information to congregations,
wellness programs for pastors and caregivers and an effort to make Lutheran SeniorLife available to all congregations
as an educational and informational resource on senior programs.
A group of pastors and laypersons, including synod staff, (Moral Owners Committee) meets regularly to help direct
the ministry initiatives, and several pastors serve as members of the board of Lutheran SeniorLife.
If you are reading this Bulletin of Reports, the concept of Lutheranism and service are important to you, and it will
always remain important to Lutheran SeniorLife. That is why Christ’s promise in John 10:10, that we may all have life
and have it abundantly, has been the brand of Lutheran SeniorLife.
And we recognize we cannot do it alone. Lutheran SeniorLife extends its gratitude to all who not only help its
mission, but who are so important to other organizations represented by all of the Lutheran synods.
David Fenoglietto, President & CEO
REPORT OF LUTHERAN SERVICE SOCIETY
Transitions can often be difficult to get one’s mind around. This is especially true for long standing relationships.
After a history of ministry in the Western Pennsylvania area that extends over 100 years, last year the Lutheran Service
Society formally affiliated with Lutheran SeniorLife. This affiliation has led to several changes, both perceived and real.
One of the real changes is my role as the Director of the agency. As I have become acquainted with the organization, I
am impressed by the diversity and commitment to the organization and its programs.
While Lutheran Service Society will remain a separate organization for operations, tax ID, and other functions we
are blessed to now have the support structure of Lutheran SeniorLife for financial management, human resource duties,
as well as internet technology, marketing, public relations, and other functions to increase our efficiency. This frees us
to provide the services we are here to deliver, and to expand our outreach in the communities we serve.
Lutheran Service Society is a true social service agency providing services to some of the most vulnerable individuals
in the Western Pennsylvania area. The future looks bright in that regard. The changes we are experiencing are ones of
gain for us and likewise for each of our partners. Below you will see some of the highlights from the past year.
Adoption and Permanency Services
Lutheran Service Society operates one of the oldest adoption agencies in the nation, going back nearly 100 years.
During our affiliation referral slowed, but they have now begun to increase once again. Last year, when we include home
studies, family profile studies, child profiles and adoption finalizations, we were able to serve 116 families and children
with our services.
Affordable Housing
LSS, through seven properties, provides low income housing in six (6) Western Pennsylvania counties (Allegheny,
Beaver, Crawford, Erie, Mercer and Venango). In 2015 we provided housing for 328 individuals:
• • • • • • • • Saint Michael’s Village on Pittsburgh’s North Side – 27 persons
Manly Heights in Union City, PA – 64 persons
Lakeview Manor in Stoneboro, PA – 53 persons
Lutheran Village in Chippewa, PA – 43 persons
Von Bora Place in Titusville, PA – 39 persons
Luther Place in Oil City, PA – 20 persons
Martin’s Landing in Girard, PA – 39 persons
Lutheran Village in Jamestown, PA – 28 persons
Beaver County Meals on Wheels
In Beaver County LSS is able to assist many senior adults to remain in their homes as they age and not be required
to move to an assisted living arrangement. While the most obvious benefit is the daily delivery of two meals per day
(on an as needed basis), there is the added benefit of a daily health and wellness check-in by the volunteer driver. This
program utilizes nearly 100 volunteers in driving and meal preparation.
Total Unique Clients Served – 152
Total Individuals Served – 1,322
Total Meals Delivered – 20,721
Older Adult Protective Services
A less than glamorous but much needed aspect of our services is our Older Adult Protective Services. We are one of
three agencies contracted by Allegheny County to receive Reports of Need and investigate abuse of senior adults. This
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abuse may be in the form of physical abuse, emotional cruelty, sexual mistreatment, financial exploitation, or emergency
housing for at risk individuals, some of whom may be homeless seniors. Whenever there is a report, one of our staff
must reach out and then do a thorough investigation to determine the validity of the report and take steps to protect the
senior. In 2015 we received 562 reports and did an onsite investigation and analysis of 413 cases.
Senior Centers
We operate Senior Centers in three counties and in eight separate locations. We are pursuing expansion in
Allegheny County at present. Last year there were 3,502 unique individuals who participated in services at our senior
centers. We are in the process of working with Duquesne University’s Palumbo School of Business to analyze the
Senior Center of the future and (equally important) to see where non-government funding could come from. We expect
to receive recommendation in April 2016.
2015 Services
• Allegheny County Primetime Center 306
• Westmoreland
ₒ Greensburg - 315
ₒ Herminie - 144
ₒ Jeannette - 107
• Beaver County Center at the Mall – 2,630
Crossroads Emergency Men’s Shelter
Finally, the Crossroads Men’s Shelter that we operated in 2015 was able to provide 217 men a minimum of one
night’s stay (most many more) off the street.
The future looks bright and we will be excited next year to share the results of an exciting 2016.
The Rev. Dr. Terry L. Mann, Director
REPORT OF CAMP AGAPÉ (OHIO VALLEY LUTHERAN BIBLE CAMP ASSOCIATION)
In 2015, children grew in many ways at Camp Agapé. In addition to having fun and making new friends, they
experienced God’s love through each other and from the staff. They became more confident. They were thrilled to see
and draw sketches of the microscopic plants and animals that they scooped from our pond. They wrote and gave a
play about Christmas. They learned to play drums. They learned more about Christ. And, they improved their reading
and math skills.
“Why would kids want to go to camp to learn to read or do math?” We hear it all the time. And to be honest not all
kids want to be at math or reading camp – at first. But then the “magic” happens – those same kids find their confidence
and they “get it.” That one-on-one time with their teacher has caused something to click for them. If you would like to
experience that firsthand, please consider volunteering to teach for a week or the summer. We continue to achieve a
one-year improvement in reading in one week, and it sticks.
During 2015 we renovated the first floor of our gatehouse including a meeting room, bedroom, handicapped
accessible bathroom, and we added a porch to its entrance. These improvements provide housing for our teachers
and for retreats in the spring and fall. We completed and moved into our new storage building. We replaced our large
tractor. We added a Gaga Court – a popular form of ball tag. We added a volley ball court. We developed a Meditation
Trail that offers spiritual guidance. We completed an extensive and expensive revision to our dam and pond, and
received approvals from the PA Department of Environmental Protection and the Washington County Conservation
District. Our St. Simon of Cyrene octagonal cabin was renovated, and now provides accommodations on a par with
our primary cabins. We encourage you to consider using the excellent facilities at Agapé for your congregation’s next
retreat.
We have improved the ease of registering by making it possible to register – and pay – online. We have engaged
a part-time Marketing Assistant, and her new baby, Grant, will be ready for our day camps in just five years and our
overnight camps in eight years.
Financially, campers and their parents still get a huge bargain. And, we reduce fees as needed so that campers can
attend. Royalties allowed us to upgrade our facility and equipment, and to fund an endowment. As you might expect,
royalties have tapered off. Consequently, our new budget includes the use of a sustainable portion of the Endowment
Fund. Contributions from congregations, individuals and organizations are needed and appreciated. There is reason
to hope that in ten years royalties could once again allow us to increase our endowment. We thank God for placing the
camp where His natural resources can help to support it.
Charles D. Wingert, President of the Board
Camp Agapé, Ohio Valley Lutheran Bible Camp Association
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REPORT OF LUTHERLYN
Summer camp enrollment declined incrementally relative to 2014 mostly due to declines in confirmation campers
and Small Fry Days. Family Camp was up again. Total summer campers served: 1,240. Total number people served
2015 through all programs: 15,240.
Our 2015 Under the Radar project raised $8,826 for heating/cooking stoves and concrete floors in houses in
Guatemala. Our Under the Radar projects are part of our discipline at Lutherlyn as we invite our campers to “live with
open hands” and share the gifts of life with others. Over the years from 2003 through 2015, Lutherlyn campers have
contributed $164,500 to projects from Minnesota to Madagascar and from Nicaragua to Cairo.
Our new swimming pool was late in getting started due to spring weather so we were forced to limp along with the
old pool for one last summer. It was left incomplete at the end of the building season. It is a beautiful pool and with only
a retaining wall and fence to install, it will be completed by summer 2016. It will definitely be worth the wait!
We have a new indoor riding arena in place at the Lutherlyn Equestrian Center, thanks to the generosity of lots of
people along with a nice big boost from the family of Harry Bost which took us from adequate to wow! This opens new
doors for us as we expand our teaching and eventing programs and begin a therapeutic riding program.
Camp Blast – our Free Day at Camp – was a gorgeous day and a delight as attendance bounced back up to around
1,200 from the rainy day 800 of 2014. Each summer this event brings us new campers.
Our retreats – the Advent Retreat, the many crafting retreats, Winter Retreat for youth, Fathers and Sons, Wild
Women – and Halloween Family Fun Day, all continue to be strong, well-attended events. The crafting retreats continue
to grow. This year, increasing demand led to waiting lists for the first time.
Woodland Center for the Arts is growing slowly. The disappointing royalties from shale gas has made funding
difficult and consequently slowed progress. Woodland Center for Arts will be offering its first summer camps for young
artists in 2016. This enterprise is being built on the enduring conviction that there are profound connections between art
and spirituality. A favorite quote from Arts, a journal focused on The Arts in Religious and Theological Studies, is, “The
arts deepen and sustain lives of faith. Spirituality relies upon the arts for profound expression.” You can help support
this new ministry by learning about it on our website, participating in classes, purchasing artwork – mostly pottery for
now – as your needs for unique gifts arise, and spreading the word.
After my speech to the assembly last year, it seems that it may be time to revisit the legal nature of the relationship
between Lutherlyn and our synods. Back in the day…say 1949, Lutherlyn was bought, built, owned and operated by the
Pittsburgh Synod of the, by that time, ULCA. In 1962 with the formation of the LCA, Lutherlyn was incorporated and was
then owned by the Western Pennsylvania-West Virginia Synod of the LCA and operated as a “program of the synod.”
In 1988 with the formation of the ELCA, West Virginia relinquished all claims to Lutherlyn and ownership of the property
would have gone to the Southwestern Pennsylvania Synod since the camp is on the turf of that synod. In order to allow
the new Northwestern Pennsylvania Synod to retain its historical ownership, Lutherlyn was re-incorporated and to this
day, Lutherlyn is a corporation with two members – the NWPA and SWPA synods of the ELCA. The ownership of the
camp lies with the corporation, Lutherlyn. The corporation is of the synods and that is why 12 members of the board of
Lutherlyn are elected in assembly – 3 from the north and 9 from the south. This means that Lutherlyn’s legal relationship
with our synods is not like that of any other agency or institution. Lutherlyn is “us” and “ours,” and never “them” or
“theirs.” This structure essentially makes the voting members to our assemblies owners and this is a written report to
the corporate stakeholders. Owners have the right and responsibility to know what is going on with their property and
ministry. Transparency and disclosure are critical.
We are very grateful to those who took those comments at the assembly to heart and increased their usage of camp
and those who made special gifts of support to help “fill the gap.”
With over 15,240 annual users, it is clear that Lutherlyn plays a vital role in the life of Western Pennsylvania.
We do struggle with a 1,760 person decline since our high of 17,000 in 2001. That decline is a mix of 800 summer
campers and environmental education students and is reflective of declining school funding and enrollments and
human service agencies that have also experienced declining funding. This, in a context of rising costs and decreased
synodical funding, has presented significant challenges which we continue to work to overcome in a variety of ways from
downsizing staff to launching new mission related enterprises.
With regard to synodical support it is important to note that the Northwestern Pennsylvania Synod continues to
maintain its support at $25,000 per year and that for budget year 2017, the SWPA synod has promised an increase in
its support. We deeply appreciate this.
Please keep your camp and its board and staff and, of course, all of our campers, in your prayers as we work to
be faithful and effective in this ministry that we share.
The Rev. Randal K Gullickson, Executive Director
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REPORT OF LUTHERAN CAMPUS MINISTRY IN GREATER PITTSBURGH
Sisters and brothers in Christ,
From the one who is, and who was, and who is to come, grace and peace to you all.
I know it could be said of ministry in general, but campus ministry is never boring. The Lutheran Campus Ministry in
Greater Pittsburgh continues to adapt and change while remaining rooted in our Lutheran identity. Even with this regular
excitement, this past year was a particularly interesting year.
In the spring of 2015, Heinz Memorial Chapel underwent renovations. A climate control system was installed to
help protect the wood and the organ. When the chapel re-opened, the campus ministry decided to move our Sunday
worship there. Starting in the fall 2015 semester and continuing into the spring 2016 semester, the campus ministry
hosted a service of Holy Communion at 12:30 p.m. Being present in this way makes it easier for students to drop in
and visit. For whatever reason entering the Lutheran University Center holds some barrier, whether psychological
or social, the effect is real. Holding our worship there has allowed far more freedom to visit and experience worship.
Almost every week, new students stop in and visit for worship. One week as we were worshipping, and other visitors to
the chapel were admiring the stained glass, I announced the welcome to the table and a woman rushed up to join us.
When the campus ministry hosted an Ash Wednesday service in Heinz Chapel, thirty people from across the university
community, students, faculty and staff, joined us. We remain committed to this very public worship and witness.
The move to Heinz Chapel should lead one to think that the Lutheran University Center is forgotten. In fact the
building continues to play a key role in the ministry. In the late summer and early fall of 2015, the roof of the Lutheran
University Center was replaced. The black rubber roof was replaced by a white thirty-year TPO roof. This project
was made possible by a grant from National Lutheran Campus Ministry, Inc., which supplied fifty percent of the cost
of the roof. National Lutheran Campus Ministry, Inc. exists to help campus ministries with their building issues. Their
generosity and stewardship helped make our roof replacement possible.
The campus ministry is wrapped up in two prominent themes: community and conversation. Lutheran Campus
Ministry continues to help young adults wrestle with the big questions of life and where God is calling them. Beyond our
regular events where these ideas are worked over, we have welcomed a number of guests who have helped us in our
endeavor: Pastor Jin S. Kim, a Presbyterian pastor in Minnesota who helped us think about racial justice; Sister Joel
Clement, a Roman Catholic nun who challenged us to think about human trafficking in and around Pittsburgh; and Dr.
Daniel M. Bell, Jr., who helped us wrestle with the economy, our desires, and the Christian life. Additionally, we reach
out to the community around us, finding ways to reflect Christ’s light into the world.
On a broader note, campus ministry in the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America is changing slightly. If you begin
to see videos and other media talking about LuMin, do not be confused. LuMin is the new Lutheran campus ministry
network that seeks to bring together professional campus pastors and ministers in a collegial network to deepen our
relationships and our mission.
Lutheran Campus Ministry continues to find ways to speak of God’s love in Jesus Christ, through various ways:
worship, study, service, fellowship, etc. We continue to reach out and welcome young adults to engage in a life that is
centered on Jesus Christ. We invite you to keep up-to-date with our work by checking us out on our webpage (www.
lucpgh.com) or on Facebook (which can be accessed via our website) or any of our social media outlets. Sign up for our
e-newsletter on our website as well.
Grace and Peace,
The Rev. Brian O. Bennett, Campus Pastor/Executive Director
Lutheran Campus Ministry in Greater Pittsburgh
REPORT OF THE EASTERN CLUSTER OF LUTHERAN SEMINARIES
In 1995 the three East Coast ELCA seminaries (The Lutheran Theological Seminary at Gettysburg [LTSG], The
Lutheran Theological Seminary at Philadelphia [LTSP], and Lutheran Theological Southern Seminary [LTSS]) joined
in the establishment of the Eastern Cluster of Lutheran Seminaries (ECLS). Since that time, ECLS has fostered
strong collaboration between the three eastern schools and other partners, enhancing our common task of theological
education for a broad spectrum of students and lifelong learners. In these challenging times when all seminaries seek
new approaches to forming leaders for the Church, we are increasingly engaged with the other ELCA seminaries, our
regional synods and additional partners in the search for financial sustainability and programmatic flexibility.
A separately incorporated entity, the Cluster is governed by a Board of Directors made up of board chairs and other
officers from each of the three schools. One of the three seminary presidents serves in rotation as Cluster executive
director. This position is currently filled by Provost Clay Schmit of LTSS. (Since the merger of LTSS with Lenoir-Rhyne
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University in 2012, the head of LTSS has served under the title of seminary provost.) ECLS continues on with only
modest core funding from the seminaries. One of the key partnerships that has made the work of the Cluster flourish
has been the reception of over $6 million in grants from foundations to support common projects and subsidize seminary
budgets.
Current Collaborative Programs
• The Cluster’s One Library Under Three Roofs links the collections at Gettysburg, Philadelphia and Columbia,
providing students, faculty and other borrowers with access to a vast array of books, periodicals and e-resources.
• Through the Cluster-sponsored Project Connect, hundreds of young persons have been invited to “consider their
callings” over the past half-dozen years. While funding from the Lilly Endowment has now been fully expended,
Admissions staffs at the three schools continue aspects fostered by Project Connect. The Cluster is working with
a grant researcher who will help to identify potential partners for future work.
• The Abundant Life Grant was received this past year from the Lilly Endowment, Inc. Totaling $750,000, this grant
enables each school to engage in research on the subject of seminarian indebtedness and explore means by
which to reduce graduate debt.
Moving beyond the collaboration between LTSP and LTSG in past years, these two members of the Eastern Cluster
have committed to the development of a new partnership which would join the two schools as one institution with two
campuses. This new venture will come into effect in 2017. The boards, faculties, and administrations are currently
engaged in designing the shape of this new school, making hard decisions about governance, faculty size and makeup, and curricula.
Future Cluster Directions: Given the merger of LTSS with Lenoir-Rhyne University, and in light of the new venture
between LTSG and LTSP, the board of the Eastern Cluster will now begin to consider the best way for the strong
collaborative work of the Cluster to continue under the new configuration of schools. Alongside the work that the Cluster
schools are doing together, there is a renewed commitment by all eight ELCA seminaries to find ways to work effectively
together. This has been prompted by the work of the ELCA’s Theological Education Advisory Council (TEAC) which has
encouraged the broad cooperation of the ELCA’s theological network. One of the principle results of this work has been
a proposal by which the eight schools can collaborate and share resources across a digital learning exchange platform.
A successful venture of this kind would benefit all synods and the entire ELCA by making theological education more
accessible to leaders of many kinds. This initiative is in the early stages of development.
With Appreciation: The Cluster is grateful for support to theological education and our seminaries from our partner
synods and churchwide organization.
The Rev. Dr. Bill Trexler, Cluster Board Chair
The Rev. Dr. Clay Schmit, Cluster Executive Director
REPORT OF THE SYNODICAL ORGANIZATION
REPORT OF SOUTHWESTERN PENNSYLVANIA WOMEN OF THE ELCA
The women held spring and fall cluster/conference meetings in 2015. The women discussed topics such as Faith
as a Mustard Seed; Renewing, Restoring, and Revitalizing our Spirits; and Help for Seniors at Home. We are always
looking for women to help in planning the cluster/conference meetings. These meetings are a great way for women to
get connected with women outside of their congregations.
The women held our annual retreat at Camp Lutherlyn with the women from Northwestern Pennsylvania Synod in
September, 2015. Our theme was “God Satisfies the Hungry Heart” and we were honored to have three different Bible
study leaders: the Reverend Dr. Blair Morgan, the Reverend Christine Rotella, and the Reverend Sandra Jones. They
each brought us different views on our theme. Our 2016 retreat is scheduled for Sept. 16-18, 2016. The 2016 theme is
“Act, Love, Walk” with the theme verse of Micah 6:8, “He has told you, O mortal, what is good; and what does the Lord
require of you but to do justice, and to love kindness, and to walk humbly with your God.” The registration form can be
found in our summer edition of Friends, Inc., which is mailed to each congregation and can be found on the synod’s
website.
At our 2015 annual convention, the following elections were made: President - Jennifer Armstrong-Schaefer; Vice
President - Joan Orr; Treasurer - Janet Fishovitz; Board Members - Betty Albright (2 yr. term); Norma Baker (2 yr. term);
Eldora Crist (2 yr. term); Linda Reed (2 yr. term); Gloria Yount (2 yr. term); Linda Cunningham (1 yr. term); and Barb
Fry (1 yr. term). The convention also voted on Jeremiah’s Place as our 2016 designated outreach. Jeremiah’s Place
is based in Pittsburgh and provides free temporary care of children when families are in crisis. The emergency care is
provided 24 hours a day/7 days a week and can be for a couple of hours or a couple of days.
The annual convention of the Southwestern Pennsylvania Women of the ELCA will be held at the Bishop Connare
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Center, Greensburg, PA on May 13-14, 2016. Our theme is “Mold Me, Fill Me, Use Me” with the theme verse of Isaiah
64:8, “Yet, O Lord, you are our Father, we are the clay, and you are our Potter; we are all the work of your hand.” We
will start with a pre-convention workshop entitled “Go Forth, Save, Preserve and Share” presented by the Synod’s
History and Archives Committee and our Southwestern Pennsylvania Women of the ELCA Archive Committee. We will
be hearing from Patti Austin, Women of the ELCA Churchwide President, at our convention. We will be electing the
following positions at the convention this year: Vice President; Secretary; 4 Board Members; 5 Voting Members to the
2017 Triennial Convention; and the 2017 Designated Outreach. The ladies will also participate in two workshops. One
workshop is, “The Potter’s Hand” (Pottery Demonstration) presented by Robert Isenberg from Camp Lutherlyn and
the other workshop is, “Me, Talk to God? Learning to Pray” presented by Joan Orr, SWPA Women of the ELCA Vice
President. A special thank you to Pastor Randy Gullickson who will lead our Bible Study during convention and a thank
you to the convention committee: Chair - Norma Baker and committee members, Betty Albright, Linda Reed, and Gloria
Yount.
In July 2017, the Women of the ELCA will meet in Minneapolis, MN for our Triennial Convention and Gathering. The
Triennial Gathering theme is “All Anew” with the following focus verses: Psalm 104:30; Romans 12:2; 2 Corinthians 4:16;
and Titus 3:4-5. The gathering will explore ways in which the Holy Spirit changes us, acknowledging that reformation
and transformation have happened and continue to happen within the community of women known as Women of the
ELCA. Our synod will be sending 5 voting members to the Triennial Convention. Registration for the Triennial Gathering
will be open on September 6, 2016. There will be more information regarding registration for the gathering in Friends,
Inc. and we will have a Triennial Coordinator at our retreat in September 2016.
Jennifer Armstrong-Schaefer, President
Southwestern Pennsylvania Synodical Women’s Organization
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REPORTS OF OTHER SYNODICALLY RELATED UNITS
REPORT OF LUTHERAN ADVOCACY MINISTRY IN PENNSYLVANIA
In response to God’s love in Jesus Christ, we advocate for wise and just public policies in Pennsylvania that
promote the common good. Lutheran Advocacy Ministry in Pennsylvania is a shared ministry of seven Pennsylvania
synods, the ELCA Congregational and Synodical Mission Unit, and Pennsylvania ELCA agencies and institutions.
Through LAMPa, Lutherans who are hungry for justice and mercy are supported to voice their faith convictions in the
public square with and on behalf of our most vulnerable neighbors and the world we share, while seeking to create a
more just Commonwealth.
In 2015, LAMPa celebrated 36 years of advocacy ministry that supported and deepened your congregational efforts
to address hunger, poverty, immigration, homelessness, school funding inequity and childhood trauma. Thanks be to
God for the support of our Southwestern Pennsylvania Synod Policy Council representatives, the Reverend Jocelyn
Johnston and the Reverend Melissa Stoller.
LAMPa advocacy takes place through staff work in the capital, partnerships with coalitions and engagement of
Lutherans in letter-writing, email and call-in advocacy, legislative visits, offering of testimony, editorial writing, social
media campaigns, press conferences and rallies. Highlights of LAMPa advocacy in 2015 include:
Feeding the Hungry: LAMPa staff met in January with the incoming Wolf administration officials to successfully
advocate for a re-establishment of a Governor’s Food Security Partnership and were present at the inaugural summit
bringing together stakeholders with the goal of eliminating hunger in Pennsylvania, as well as a subsequent task group
meeting, where we lifted up the work of Lutheran hunger ministries. LAMPa advocated for increasing funding for
the State Food Purchase Program in the state budget, and engaged Lutherans in helping their local schools expand
participation in the school breakfast program.
Fighting Homelessness: LAMPa advocates helped bring affordable homes within reach by expanding the highly
effective Housing Trust Fund statewide. After two years of work on a bill that received unanimous bipartisan support, it
was signed into law by Governor Wolf in late 2015. The trust fund had already shown success in creating jobs, battling
blight and preventing homelessness in the communities where it had been available prior to the expansion.
Giving All Children a Better Chance at Academic Success: Pennsylvania Lutherans spoke at rallies and press
conferences as part of the Campaign for Fair Education Funding to address the state’s rating as the least equitable in
the country for education funding. LAMPa staff also testified about the possibilities of trauma-responsive schools at a
hearing of the Basic Education Funding Commission, which made a recommendation to the Department of Education
to develop protocols for assessing student trauma in an attempt to improve teaching and learning.
Addressing Poverty: LAMPa continued to fight attempts by predatory lenders to gain a foothold in Pennsylvania
through proposals to introduce payday lending to the state.
Fighting Climate Change: LAMPa staff and Lutheran advocates offered testimony on the state’s proposed Clean
Power Plan.
Connecting Service to Advocacy: LAMPa provided information, resources and support for congregations and
conferences participating in the Churchwide Day of Service as well as partnering with Charlie Roberts, Director of
Children, Youth and Family Ministries to help connect advocacy to the new RiseUp service retreat.
Teaching: LAMPa staff addressed classes and led a workshop during Spring Academy Week at The Lutheran
Theological Seminary in Gettysburg, as well as teaching at area congregations and a post-confirmation retreat at Nawakwa.
In 2016, LAMPa will be developing service-and-advocacy projects for congregations to engage in for the Churchwide
Day of Service on September 11. We would be glad to help your congregation plan to make that day one of “God’s
work. Our hands. Our voices.” We would also be happy to help your conference or congregation participate in faithful
citizenship in a politically divisive election year.
Tracey DePasquale
Interim Director, Lutheran Advocacy Ministry in PA
REPORT OF REGION 8 OF THE EVANGELICAL LUTHERAN CHURCH IN AMERICA
According to the ELCA Constitution, the region’s primary mission is to connect, resource, support and network those
serving in leadership in our synods and congregations. The following examples represent aspects of that work of the
Region 8:
Candidacy and Assignment of First Call Candidates is, perhaps, the primary area of responsibility in my portfolio.
• In many respects I serve as adjunct staff to each Region 8 synod; in addition to my service at every synod’s
candidacy committee meeting, I am the ‘go to’ person for all things candidacy. This work regularly includes
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arranging Theological Review Panels and Competency Assessment Panels (as well as the follow-up report
writing) and responding to the particular questions that often stymie synod staff people.
• Each year we hold at least one Region-wide candidacy gathering for each synod’s candidacy staff and committee
chair person; also invited are any number of colleagues in ministry from across the region (e.g., Directors for
Evangelical Mission). Throughout 2015 we reviewed DRAFT Candidacy Manual material and utilized the skills of
several Lutheran Theological Seminary at Gettysburg (LTSG) colleagues to discuss the implications for candidacy
due to the changes in the LTSG Masters of Divinity degree options, the development of a partnered Distributive
Learning program between Lutheran Theological Seminary at Philadelphia/LTSG, the piloting of electronic student
portfolios, and ongoing work in the development of a competency based MDiv program.
First Call Theological Education is a natural extension of candidacy’s preparation of rostered leaders and first call
assignment’s work to match candidates’ gifts with congregations’ missional needs.
• Region 8 partners find continuing value in cooperative efforts in some key aspects of the First Call Theological
Education (FCTE) program. Primarily this means the planning and implementing of a Region 8 FCTE Annual
Conference; the office works with a Region-wide advisory council in planning.
• Due to the changes in both theological education and candidacy, Region 8 partners took the opportunity to review
and restructure our approach to the annual FCTE Conference; that structure debuted in the November 2014
Conference. The program components were identified by the Region’s bishops and the structure developed
as a result of the collaboration between the bishops and the FCTE advisory council. Due to the success of the
new structure in 2014, for the November 2015 conference we implemented the full structure of this plan (which
includes three learning tracks, with nine segments).
• In addition to the conference, each synod also provides more contextual opportunities.
Support of newly called synod staff is yet another aspect of my service.
• Bishop Riegel began service on September 1, 2015, in the West Virginia/Western Maryland Synod, and I spend
time assisting with his orientation for service and supporting the work of the synod’s emerging staff.
Global Gathering efforts is yet another facet of my service in Region 8.
• We Are Church Together – Region 8 Networks for Mission Gathering is scheduled for October 6-8, 2016; this effort
(in collaboration with Chicago-based staff) brings together six churchwide networks (Global Mission/Companion
Synods, Mission Interpreters, Synod/Congregation Communicators, World Hunger/Malaria, Disaster Response,
and Stewardship) and two Region-based networks (youth/young adults and green initiatives).
Nancy E. Gable, Diaconal Minister
Coordinator for Missional Leadership, Region 8
REPORT OF CHRISTIAN ASSOCIATES OF SOUTHWEST PENNSYLVANIA
Blessings and joy to you, Lutheran friends! May the peace of our Lord Jesus Christ be yours as you gather for this
year’s Synod Assembly.
On behalf of our Council of Bishops and Judicatory Executives, thank you very much for your ongoing support of
Christian Associates of Southwest Pennsylvania. We are grateful for your prayers and encouragement, your engagement
in our ministries, and your generous financial commitment. Thank you, also, for sharing Bishop Kusserow with us; his
leadership on the Council and his service on the Executive Committee is greatly appreciated.
Christian Associates works for Christian unity among the Protestant, Catholic, Orthodox, and Anglican churches
of our region. Since 1970, Christian Associates has been seeking the mission of the Gospel and the wholeness of our
communities through:
Collegiality: convening Christian leaders to build relationships grounded in trust and common values
Collaboration: mobilizing church bodies to speak and act for the common good
Communication: sharing news, events, and information to help churches connect and thrive
Connectedness: bringing the voice of the church to civic, community, and interfaith partnerships.
In the past year, we have pursued these priorities in diverse and innovative ways:
• Inspired by the connections our bishops and executives make in Council meetings, we started SPARK
Conversations, a series of informal lunch gatherings for Christian leaders who share a common role, identity, or
interest. This year’s SPARK series included meet-ups for clergy under age 40, church planters, campus ministers,
and other groups.
• In November, the Council of Bishops and Executives spoke out on the refugee crisis in the Middle East and Europe,
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underlining the Christian mandate to welcome the stranger and care for people in harm’s way. We continue to
work to equip pastors and other Christian leaders with the information and connections they need to extend
welcome in our communities.
• Bringing our communications ministries into the 21st century, we established a Facebook page and an e-newsletter,
“Unity N’at,” while continuing to publish our paper newsletter, “The Call.” We look forward to launching our new
Web site very soon. (Please visit http://signup.casp.org to add your name to our e-newsletter list.)
• Working with partner organizations, we created worship resources to help clergy connect Sunday worship with
important community issues. In spring 2015, we published “Peace, Be Still!” which encouraged congregations
to engage in the Father’s Day Pledge against gender violence. In April, we distributed “Feed My Lambs,” which
helped churches participate in relief of childhood hunger. A current project on gun violence will be released shortly
before Synod Assembly, with preaching resources for the lectionary texts for June 19.
In the midst of these efforts, Christian Associates also packed up our Lawrenceville office, where we had been
located since 1998, and moved to the campus of Pittsburgh Theological Seminary in East Liberty. As we continue to
settle in to our beautiful new space, we are excited about the new possibilities for collaboration that this setting offers.
Please be sure to update your records with our new mailing address: P.O. Box 5241, Pittsburgh, PA 15206.
All our work is made possible through the contributions of our member judicatories – including the synod’s generous
giving – as well as the gifts of our individual, congregational, and corporate donors. Financing the work of Christian unity
in these challenging times requires everyone’s support; if this is work that matters to you, I hope you will do your part in
ensuring a solid future for Christian Associates.
Encountering our Christian brothers and sisters deepens our own understanding and practice of faith, and helps us
to recognize that despite all of our differences, we truly are one body. May the spirit of unity, friendship, and reconciliation
be with you all at this year’s Assembly and in the coming days, and thank you again for your support of Christian
Associates.
Your sister in Christ,
The Rev. Liddy Barlow
Executive Minister, Christian Associates of Southwest PA
REPORT OF THE PENNSYLVANIA COUNCIL OF CHURCHES
The Pennsylvania Council of Churches is the state-wide ecumenical presence in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania.
Formed by 42 church bodies and agencies representing 20 Anabaptist, Anglican, Orthodox, Pentecostal, and Protestant
communions (denominations), the Council works for Christian unity for the sake of the world. [John 17:23]
The Council continued to be in a time of transition in 2015 after releasing the consultant hired in 2014 and deciding
to form a task group to work on developing a process for further work on a vision/plan for the future.
Important Accomplishments
The Council relaunched its annual conference in October with “Lord, Let Our Eyes Be Opened: Breaking the Chains
of Mass Incarceration.” Speakers included well-known experts (Glenn Martin of JustLeadershipUSA and Harold Dean
Trulear, Founder of Healing Communities USA), as well as a number of returning citizens (persons who had been
incarcerated and released). Around 110 were involved in this event, which received extremely positive evaluations.
The Board of Directors voted to admit one new affiliate member, the Archdiocese of the United States (Old Catholic
Confederation). The Board also voted to revise the Council’s Constitution and Bylaws to: (1) permit heads of Council
member bodies to send proxies/representatives to act on their behalf, and to participate in meetings electronically
(which significantly boosted attendance at the October meeting when it first took effect); and (2) permit flexibility for
scheduling Board meetings (eliminating the requirement for specific days in the spring and fall). The Board elected new
officers at its October meeting as well: President—Liz Bidgood Enders; Vice-President—Alan Miller; Secretary—Yvette
Davis; Treasurer—Linda Lubold.
The Council prepared and distributed two issues of its newsletter, Ecumenical News, and relaunched its Campaign
for Christian Ministry with a call for support of the Council’s efforts in November.
The Council facilitated the first meeting of Commission chairs to discuss their work and determine where efforts
could be coordinated.
Council intern Kelsey Hamilton-Layer (Lancaster Theological Seminary) worked with the Director of Advocacy and
Ecumenical Outreach to develop a curriculum on bullying aimed at youth with support from the Eastern Pennsylvania
Conference of the United Methodists, and is seeking congregations to pilot test it.
The Pennsylvania Religious Leaders’ Gathering in December in State College provided a space for sharing ideas,
concerns, prayer and worship for the attendees which included representatives from several Council member bodies
and Council staff.
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Council Ministries
Commission on Public Witness & Public Witness Ministry. The Council’s advocacy efforts in 2015 focused on
the following areas:
• Advocacy for a Pennsylvania budget with sufficient revenues that addresses the concerns of people of faith—this
work continued throughout the entire year as a result of an ongoing budget impasse.
• Human needs/poverty-related work, in coordination with the Coalition for Low Income Pennsylvanians (CLIP)
(NOTE: The Director is a co-chair of this group.) and the Making Work Pay coalition.
• Efforts to raise the minimum wage, primarily in coordination with the Raise the Wage PA Coalition.
• Public education funding, primarily in coordination with the Campaign for Fair Education Funding, focusing on
developing a new formula for funding public schools in Pennsylvania.
• Criminal justice reform: (1) reducing the use of solitary confinement (primarily in coordination with the Pennsylvania
Network Against Torture and the National Religious Campaign Against Torture); (2) expungement legislation
(removing minor offenses from the records of returning citizens); and (3) supporting the needs of returning citizens.
• Environment, primarily climate change and protecting water resources. This included launching the effort to adopt
a climate change resolution for adoption by the Board.
The Commission set the direction for the Council’s advocacy efforts during the 2015-16 legislative session to focus
on education and boosting of civic engagement, addressing “upstream” issues (such as many of the issues named
above) in order to improve the lives of people on the margins, and addressing the role of money in our political system.
The Commission also began to lay the groundwork for holding a forum in 2016 for the U.S. Senate candidates.
Commission on Unity & Relationships. The Commission is exploring reviving the Pennsylvania Conference on
Interchurch Cooperation (PCIC) or something similar to work with the Roman Catholics in Pennsylvania on efforts of
shared interest and concern. It also began discussions with Dr. George Pickens (Professor of Theology and Mission,
Messiah College) to launch a program aimed at educating Christian clergy concerning developing relationships with
Muslims in their communities, and submitted a letter of inquiry seeking support from the Lilly Endowment.
Commission on Common Ministries. The Council has continued to provide support to its Trucker/Traveler Ministry,
Campground Ministries, and Farmworker Ministries. The Commission also started discussion about other areas of
ministry where the Council might engage in the future. Areas of discussion have included building a Healing Communities
network in Pennsylvania (training congregations to support returning citizens and their families), community-based
public health ministries, and supports for hunger programs.
Looking to the Future
Council staff have begun meeting regularly to discuss activities and areas where the Council might engage to be of
service to our members, the wider faith community, and the world, and how we might boost the Council’s visibility so as
to achieve maximum impact for our efforts. Some areas include:
• Rebuilding/redesigning the Council’s website to make it feel more inviting and user-friendly, with appropriate
elements to drive viewers to the site.
• Making more and better use of social media.
• Continuing to explore the revival of former events such as a Council Advocacy Day at the Capitol, as well as new
statewide and regional events of interest to clergy and faith leaders in Pennsylvania. Potential programs include:
• Healing Communities trainings, as noted above
• A forum for Pennsylvania Senate candidates to seek responses concerning issues of interest to the faith
community
• A peacemaking “summit” to bring together representatives of organizations involved in a range of peacemaking
activities to network and learn from each other
• Continuing to focus on making the United Church Center a more energy-efficient facility.
• Exploring how the Service Department could expand and/or improve services.
Janet Gulick
Interim Executive Director, Pennsylvania Council of Churches
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REPORT OF THE ELCA MISSION INVESTMENT FUND
The Mission Investment Fund (MIF), a financial ministry of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America, makes
low-interest loans to established ELCA congregations, new-start congregations and ELCA-related ministries for building
projects.
Established congregations use MIF loans to renovate, expand or relocate. New-start congregations rely on MIF
loans to buy land and construct their first church buildings. ELCA-related ministries use MIF loans for a variety of capital
projects.
At year-end 2015, MIF had 830 loans outstanding, totaling $492 million.
To fund these loans, MIF offers a portfolio of investments for congregations, their members, synods and ELCArelated ministries to purchase. MIF invsetments offer adjustable- or fixed-rate terms and earn interest at competitive
rates.
At year-end 2015, MIF investments by congregations, their members, synods and ELCA-related ministries totaled
$464 million. The Mission Investment Fund is a financially strong and stable organization, with a record of steady,
controlled growth. With total assets of $663 million and net assets of $194 million at year-end 2015, MIF maintains a
capital ratio of 29 percent - positioning MIF in the top tier of well-capitalized church extension funds.
MIF Investments and Loans in the Southwestern Pennsylvania Synod:
As of December 31, 2015:
• 7 Mission Investment Fund loans, with a balance of $4,522,980, are at work throughout the synod.
• Investments in the Mission Investment Fund by 82 individuals, 53 congregations, 2 ministries and the synod
totaled $4,661,382.
The Rev. Kent E. Peterson
Regional Manager, ELCA Mission Investment Fund
REPORT OF THE ELCA FOUNDATION REGIONAL GIFT PLANNING PARTNERSHIP
The Planned Giving Partnership has been relaunched in Western Pennsylvania! The ELCA Foundation,
in collaboration with your synod and the Lutheran ministries within our region, has made planned giving resources
available to your congregation!
Services for individuals and families include free, no-obligation consultations on legacy planning and planned
giving that explain:
• How to maximize the distribution of your estate to your loved ones, using tools that will save on income and
inheritance taxes AND help you support the ministries important to you
• How a planned gift can provide current or deferred income for life
• How planned giving teaches your children good stewardship habits
The ELCA Gift Planner will work with you to organize your assets to give you the ability to accomplish your charitable
goals and create a legacy for your family and the ministries you love. These services are offered to you at no charge
through this partnership! Meetings are confidential and family-focused.
Services for your church include working with your congregation to perpetuate current and future ministry by
working with your pastor, church council, and endowment, finance, and stewardship committees to establish and grow
a congregational Mission Endowment Fund. The ELCA Gift Planner will also conduct educational legacy presentations
and one-on-one consultations for your adult ministries to encourage charitable estate planning.
The partnership within this region includes a wide variety of ministries and organizations. This diversity provides
our donors with many possibilities for support based upon their passions and desires. No matter what focus of ministry
or type of person served, the many organizations within our partnership provide something for everyone!
Current Partners Include:
Northwestern Pennsylvania Synod; Southwestern Pennsylvania Synod; West Virginia-Western Maryland Synod;
Lutheran Campus Ministry, Pittsburgh; Lutherlyn; Gettysburg Seminary; Lutheran SeniorLife; Glade Run Lutheran
Services (pending); Camp Agapé; Community Lutheran Partners; Camp Luther; West Virginia University Campus
Ministry; Bethesda Children’s Home (pending).
Your new Gift Planner is Ryan Ebner, former Development Director at Lutherlyn. He was born and raised in Erie,
PA. He and his wife Amy are members of Grace @ Calvary Lutheran Church in Butler, PA. Ryan began in this position
on January 11, 2016.
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The first quarter of 2016 was focused primarily on connecting with each of the partner organizations and beginning
relationships with congregations that have potential to engage in a planned giving program. The process with
congregations includes: speaking with the pastors, leaders and committees in the congregation; presenting programs
for their members; serving individual members through one-on-one meetings with families (that self-identify) upon
request; completing a plan on how to distribute assets to their family and their selected ministries after their deaths.
If you or your congregation would benefit from any aspect of planned, deferred, or estate giving, please feel free to
contact Ryan at 814-823-3285 or [email protected].
Ryan Ebner
Regional Gift Planner, ELCA Foundation
REPORT OF PORTICO BENEFIT SERVICES
Dear Partners in Ministry,
It’s an interesting — and challenging — time to be the church. Ministry leaders are learning to navigate the changing
culture by holding on to the best of the past while finding ways to be creative, nimble, and resilient. This is just as true
for Portico.
As we navigate the changing landscape, we are guided by two core values: stewardship and collaboration. For us,
that means caring wisely for all we are entrusted to manage — time, money, our employees, and the well-being of those
we serve — so leaders can access important benefits and resources, today and in retirement. Here are a few ways
we’re putting those values into practice:
We spend and invest with care. In these times of rising health care costs and tight church budgets, we work
hard to follow a lean, carefully managed spending plan with a goal of keeping costs low. As 2015 investment markets
dramatically rose and fell, our active investment management strategy and strategic asset allocations helped improve
retirement fund returns in an otherwise disappointing year.
We seek opportunities to provide the best health care value. The past two years brought, in some instances,
double-digit percentage increases for those employers sponsoring members in the ELCA Health Plan. Although this
was in line with nationwide averages, we realize for congregations this is an unsustainable trend. We are committed to
keeping administrative expenses below 12% of our health care budget, and are aggressively working with our vendor
partners to find new savings opportunities.
We tap technology to reach our leaders more efficiently. By converting our popular pre-retirement seminar into
a series of three webinars, we were able to complement the rich educational experience of our in-person seminars
with the convenience and cost-effectiveness of online learning. We are also developing new webinars designed to help
younger leaders establish a strong financial foundation.
We’ve raised the bar on top-notch customer service. Our members receive more than just a friendly voice
when they call Portico’s Customer Care Center. As a BenchmarkPortal-certified 2015 “Center of Excellence,” we were
recognized as one of the top call centers in the nation in both cost- and quality-related metrics.
We invest in our leaders. Because the future health of our church depends on the health of its leaders, we are
leading the ELCA in calling for a wellness reformation — a renewed commitment to well-being that comes from healthy
lifestyle choices, reduced health risks, and lower health care costs — for members, congregations, and the ELCA
Health Plan. We are encouraging our congregations and church organizations to put the ‘we’ in wellness by joining in
conversation with their pastors and professional staff about creating a culture that supports healthy lifestyles.
Portico is committed to providing a cost-effective, comprehensive benefit program that helps our church’s leaders
stay nimble, resilient, and confident in these interesting, challenging times.
In Christ,
The Rev. Jeffrey D. Thiemann
President and CEO, Portico Benefit Services
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CLOSING OF A SYNOD ASSEMBLY
The assembly stands. A hymn may be sung.
The leader begins the dialogue, and the assembly responds.
L Jesus said, You will be my witnesses
C to the ends of the earth.
L I chose you and appointed you
C to bear fruit that will last.
L Remember, I will be with you always,
C to the end of time.
L The Lord be with you.
C And also with you.
The following or other appropriate prayers may be said.
L
Let us pray.
Direct us, Lord God, in all our doings with your most gracious favor, and extend to us your continual help; that
in all our works begun, continued, and ended in you, we may glorify your holy name; and finally, by your mercy,
bring us to everlasting life; through Jesus Christ, our Savior and Lord.
CAmen.
L
O God, our beginning and our end, you kept Abraham and Sarah in safety throughout the days of their pilgrimage,
you led the children of Israel through the midst of the sea, and by a star you led the magi to the infant Jesus.
Protect and guide us now as we set out to travel. Make our ways safe and our homecomings joyful, and bring us
at last to our heavenly home, where you dwell in glory with our Lord Jesus Christ and the life-giving Holy Spirit,
one God, now and forever.
CAmen.
L
I now declare this assembly closed in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit.
CAmen.
L
Go in peace. Share the good news.
C Thanks be to God.
Used by permission of Augsburg Fortress Liturgies Annual License #26189. All rights reserved.
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Minutes
of the
Twenty-Eighth Synod Assembly
Held at Thiel College
Greenville, Pennsylvania
“Belonging to Each Other in Christ Jesus”
June 11-13, 2015
Bishop Kurt F. Kusserow
Presiding
**********************
The 28th Synod Assembly of the Southwestern Pennsylvania Synod was held jointly with the Synod Assembly of the
Northwestern Pennsylvania Synod. Worship, the Report of the ELCA Representative, Keynote Speaker presentations,
fellowship and meals were shared while business sessions were conducted separately.
Thursday Morning, June 11, 2015
The opening Liturgy of Holy Communion was held Thursday, June 11, 2015 at 10:30 a.m. at the William A. Passavant
Memorial Center, Thiel College, Greenville, Pennsylvania.
Opening Liturgy of Holy Communion
Evangelical Lutheran Worship, Setting Three
THE PRELUDE
Deo Gratias Op 50, No. 5 from ‘Six Pieces for Organ’
Fête
THE CONFESSION & FORGIVENESS
THE ENTRANCE HYMN
Alleluia, Jesus is Risen
THE APOSTOLIC GREETING
KYRIE
THE HYMN OF PRAISE
THE PRAYER OF THE DAY
The FIRST READING
THE PSALMODY
Psalm 22:24-30 Sung by the Choir
THE SECOND READING
THE VERSE
Sung by the Choir
THE HOLY GOSPEL
THE SERMON
THE HYMN OF THE DAY
O Praise the Gracious Power
THE INSTALLATION OF CONFERENCE DEANS
The Rev. A. Patrice Weirick - Conference One
The Rev. Heather S. Lubold - Conference Two
The Rev. James V. Arter III - Conference Three
The Rev. Melissa L. Stoller - Conference Four
The Rev. Erin E. Evans - Conference Five
The Rev. Peter D. Asplin - Conference Six
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Joseph Wilcox Jenkins
Jean Langlais
ELW 377
Acts 9:26-31
Anglican Chant / Stephen Elvey
1 John 3:16-24
C. Pock
St. John 15: 1-8
The Reverend Bishop Kurt F. Kusserow
ELW 651
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THE PRAYERS OF THE CHURCH
THE PEACE
THE OFFERING
Our offerings at assembly are designated for The Campaign for the ELCA,
The Lutheran Seminary at Gettysburg and Thiel College
ANTHEM AT THE OFFERTORY
All The Ends of the Earth (Psalm 22:27)
THE OFFERTORY PRAYER
THE DIALOGUE
THE PROPER PREFACE
SANCTUS
THE EUCHARISTIC PRAYER
THE LORD’S PRAYER
THE FRACTION
AGNUS DEI
THE COMMUNION OF THE FAITHFUL
O Blessed Spring
ANTHEM
A Vineyard Grows
HYMN
Ubi Caritas et amor
THE POST-COMMUNION PRAYER
THE ORDER FOR THE OPENING OF A SYNOD ASSEMBLY
THE BENEDICTION
THE HYMN TO CLOSE
The Church of Christ
THE DISMISSAL
THE POSTLUDE
Improvisation
Presiding Minister
Celebrant
Preacher
Assisting Minister
Master of Ceremonies
Carl Schalk
ELW 447
K. Lee Scott
ELW 642
Bishop Jones
Bishop Eaton
Bishop Kusserow
ELW 729
Dr. Ann Labounsky
Worship Participants
The Reverend Elizabeth Eaton
Presiding Bishop, Evangelical Lutheran Church in America
The Reverend Ralph Jones, Bishop
Northwestern Pennsylvania Synod, ELCA
The Reverend Kurt Kusserow, Bishop
Southwestern Pennsylvania Synod, ELCA
Kyra Short
Zion Lutheran Church, Penn Hills
The Reverend Brian A. Evans
First Lutheran Church, Pittsburgh
Lectors
Communion Assistants
Sacristans
Alcolytes
Music
Ron King
St. Matthew’s Lutheran Church &
Holy Trinity Lutheran Church, Erie
Jennifer Armstrong-Schaefer
Prince of Peace Lutheran Church, Latrobe
Members of the Assembly
Ellie Pancoe
Faith Lutheran Church, Natrona Heights
Barbara Ravenstahl
Holly Schmitt
Messiah Lutheran Church, Munhall
Members of Youth Convocation
The Assembly Choir
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Andrew Erb, Trumpet
Terry Gale, Trumpet
Andrew Garay, Timpani
Dr. Ann Labounsky, FAGO, Organist
Cynthia Pock, AAGO, Music Director
FIRST PLENARY SESSION
Thursday afternoon, June 11, 2015
Call to Order
Bishop Kurt F. Kusserow convened the First Session of the 2015 Synod Assembly at 1:31 p.m.
Opening Devotions
Bishop Kusserow introduced Pastors Clif Suehr and Chris Suehr, Assembly Chaplains, who led the assembly in
devotions and prayer.
Bishop Kusserow invited Pastor Bob Schaefer, chairperson of the Committee on Registration and Attendance to present
the committee’s report. Pastor Schaefer reported the following:
Clergy Voting Members
Lay Voting Members Total
Voting Members, Lay Rostered
Voting Members, Lay under 21
Voting Members Total Visitors
Youth Convo (includes Voters under 21)
Present at Synod Assembly
133
200
9
15
333
35
15
368
Bishop Kusserow declared a quorum present.
Adoption of the Agenda
Secretary Christensen moved the adoption of Synod Council Recommendation 1:
That the program and order of business for the 2015 Synod Assembly be adopted.
The motion carried; Synod Council Recommendation 1 was adopted.
Committees of the Synod Assembly
Bishop Kusserow introduced those persons who were appointed as chairpersons of the Committees of the Synod
Assembly and recognized Pastor Larry Mort, chair of the Synod Assembly Planning Committee. Other members of
these committees were identified on a page that was included in the Assembly Packet.
Registration and Attendance
Reference and Counsel
Minutes
Bishop’s Report
Elections
Memorials
Resolutions
Worship
Youth Convo
Synod Assembly Planning
Pastor Robert J. Schaefer
Pastor Natalie L. Gessert
Pastor Terri L. Landers
Pastor Paul M. Gruesu
Pastor Margaret (Peggy) Suhr-Barkley
Pastor Brian A. Evans
Pastor Christina A. Ingold
Pastor Larry F. Mort
A Word about the Joint Assembly with the Northwestern Pennsylvania Synod
Bishop Kusserow noted that it has been about 30 years since all of Western Pennsylvania gathered together in assembly.
He noted that while business sessions for the Northwestern Pennsylvania and the Southwestern Pennsylvania Synods
will be held separately, the two groups will join together for worship, the keynote address, the report of the ELCA
representative and for meals and fellowship. Bishop Kusserow noted that Bylaw 101.20 (page 37, BOR) states “The
floor of the Synod Assembly shall be divided so that those with voice and vote are seated in a restricted area with visitors
seated elsewhere in the hall." He noted that during the Southwestern Pennsylvania Synod plenary business sessions,
the bar shall be the seats below the center aisle. When we are no longer in plenary session, the bar does not exist and
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persons from both the Northwestern Pennsylvania and the Southwestern Pennsylvania Synods may sit anywhere within
Passavant Center.
Recognition of Pastors New to the Synod
Bishop Kusserow introduced the following pastors who have come into our synod since the 2014 Synod Assembly.
The Rev. Ryan D. Kobert
Serving: Faith Lutheran Church, New Florence, PA
Ordained: June 13, 2014 at Trinity Lutheran Church, Latrobe during the 2014 Synod Assembly
The Rev. Daniel F. Clark
Serving: St. Paul’s Lutheran Church, Scottdale, PA
Ordained: October 31, 2014
The Rev. Kerri L. Clark
Serving: Trinity Lutheran Church, Connellsville, PA
Ordained: October 31, 2014
The Rev. Cynthia K. Baxter
Serving: Rider Lutheran Church, West Sunbury, PA
Ordained: January 31, 2015
Bishop Kusserow also introduced the following pastors who are new to our synod by transfer from another synod.
The Rev. Michael E. Ryan (from Southeast Michigan Synod)
Serving: Faith Lutheran Church, White Oak
The Rev. Ross I. Carmichael (from Metropolitan Chicago Synod)
Serving: St. Andrew, Pittsburgh (Shadyside)
The Rev. Andrew E. Carlsson [Retired] (from Northeastern PA Synod)
The Rev. Scott Olbert [Retired] (from Central Southern Illinois Synod)
Bishop Kusserow then introduced Byron Wesley Smith III (“Wesley”) who is serving Grace, Rochester and Redeemer,
Monaca as an intern; and Ordinand Beth Hawk who will be ordained on Friday evening and who has been called to
serve Crooked Creek Cooperative Lutheran Ministries.
Motion and second that Wesley Smith be permitted to sit in the bar with voting members from Grace and Redeemer
with voice and no vote.
Motion carried.
Motion (Linda Schaefer, Crooked Creek Cooperative Ministries / Clif Suehr, Holy Trinity, Irwin) that Ordinand Beth Hawk
be permitted to sit in the bar with voting members from Crooked Creek Cooperative Ministries with voice and no vote.
Motion carried.
Bishop Kusserow then introduced and welcomed others:
+ Barb Debski, our regional representative for PORTICO
+ Nancy Gable, Region 8 Coordinator
+ Rev. Liddy Barlow, Christian Associates of Southwest Pennsylvania
Rev. Barlow greeted the assembly on behalf of the 26 Judicatories of Christian Associates of Southwest Pennsylvania
(CASP). She noted that CASP has published a resource for clergy to help congregations engage the issues of domestic
violence. The 12-page booklet, “Peace Be Still”, is available now in print and online. She encouraged congregations to
participate in the Father’s Day Pledge, June 21, against gender violence. She thanked the assembly for their support
of Christian Associates.
Assembly Orientation
Bishop Kusserow asked those who were serving as voting members of the Synod Assembly for the first time to raise
their hands. He thanked them for their presence noting that they are a blessing to the whole synod. His orientation is
especially for those who are new but also as a refresher for those who are already familiar with the shape and flow of
the Synod Assembly.
Bishop Kusserow introduced synod officers and assembly personnel and thanked them for their generous service to
the assembly.
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Vice President
Secretary
Treasurer
Parliamentarian
Assembly Chaplains
Keynote Speaker
Churchwide Representative
R. Brandon James
Tom Beecher
Ted Schroeder
Pastors Clif and Chris Suehr
Rev. Dr. Philip Pfatteicher
Presiding Bishop Elizabeth Eaton
Secretary Christensen moved that Presiding Bishop Elizabeth Eaton be permitted to sit in the bar with voting members
of the assembly at any time. John Wilver, First, Apollo seconded the motion.
Motion carried.
Bishop Kusserow continued with introductions.
Assembly Nurses
Assembly Musicians
Screen Projection
Dottie Zaffuto, Monica Broecker
Dr. Ann Labounsky, Cynthia Pock,
Maidene Hackett, Andrew Sabol
Holly Schmitt, Pastor Michael Sourwine
Bishop Kusserow then reviewed portions of the Bulletin of Reports, noting that the agenda is found on page 13. He
asked the assembly to turn to page 181 of the Bulletin of Reports where the positions to be elected are identified
and those nominated are named. The bishop then noted that the pages of biographical data on nominees begin on
page 261 and asked that these pages be reviewed prior to our first ballot at 7:45 this evening. Since we will be voting
electronically, there will not be time to read the biographical information at that time.
Bishop Kusserow noted that reports from our committees and from the wide variety of ministries that make up our life in
this synod begin on page 187 of the Bulletin of Reports. He encouraged everyone to read the reports and discover the
fullness and richness of our life together in Christ.
The bishop then referred to the bylaws concerning the work that we do as an assembly (pages 36-38 of the BOR). He
specifically referenced Bylaw 101.144, the Committee on Reference and Counsel, noting that if one wishes to present
a resolution that has not already come through a Conference to the Memorials Committee, or if one wants to provide a
ministry report that is not already on the agenda, they will need to work with the Reference and Counsel Committee in
order to help us move through the agenda well.
Bishop Kusserow then reviewed Bylaw 101.18 which directs that any motion made must be presented in writing. If one
wishes to make a motion, they are asked to complete and submit the electronic form so that when you rise to speak the
secretary may have the written motion in front of her. Information about how to make motions electronically is available
at the Minutes Desk and will be provided on the large screen.
Bylaw 101.21 describes the manner in which voting members may rise and speak. Please note that it is important
that you state your name and the congregation, institution or group that you represent. Please use one of the floor
microphones and note that you have a five minute limit. You may speak a second time to the same issue only after
all others have had their first opportunity and then for only two minutes. If what you have to say is really more of an
announcement, please bring that announcement in writing to the projection table as a courtesy to the whole assembly.
Bishop Kusserow then asked our Quizdom representative, Jean Knight, to lead the assembly through a brief overview
of the proper use of our voting machines.
The bishop then noted there are customs that have traditionally been observed in our assemblies that are not included
as bylaws. He proposed they be adopted again this year as rules for this assembly, and asked the Secretary to move
them.
Secretary Christensen moved the following “Rules of Procedure” for this assembly:
A member who has spoken on the pending question may not move to end debate on the matter (that
is to “move the previous question” or to “call the question”). A member may not introduce a motion
after first speaking to the matter, but shall be afforded the first opportunity to speak following receipt
of a second. In the give-and-take of debate on issues before the Synod Assembly, members of the
assembly and visitors shall refrain from applause.
Voting took place using the voting machines.
The motion carried; the “Rules of Procedure” were adopted.
Bishop Kusserow noted that the Synod Council recommends another procedural rule to govern amendments to the
budget (Synod Council Recommendation 2, page 172 of the Bulletin of Reports). He shared that over the years we
have found it helpful to provide boundaries to guide our deliberation so that the careful work of our Budget and Finance
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Committee is honored in our conversation and so that those other ministries that may be affected by an amendment
to the budget are given an opportunity to prepare a thoughtful response. The Bishop noted that the budget will be
presented today at 3:00 p.m. but that we will not be taking action on the budget until later in the assembly. He then asked
the Secretary to read Synod Council Recommendation 2.
Secretary Christensen moved Synod Council Recommendation 2:
That any motion from the floor of the Synod Assembly to amend the proposed budget (1) must be
submitted in writing at the time the budget is first presented to the assembly; (2) that any proposed
amendment to increase any line item of the proposed budget must include an offsetting reduction to
another line item(s) in order to maintain the parameters of the proposed budget; (3) must be referred
to the Committee on Reference and Counsel so that representatives of the Budget and Finance
Committee can provide input on the proposed change(s) and the implication(s) of those changes prior
to the Assembly’s vote on the proposed budget.
Voting took place using the voting machines.
As to matters of courtesy and good order, Bishop Kusserow offered some guidelines for the use of our time when we
are in plenary sessions:
+Whenever you come into this room, please put your name badge on, and turn your cell phone off (or at least
on silent).
+If you have slides, announcements, or other media presentations that you would like to have projected on the
screen, please have a flash drive with your name and time of presentation provided to the projection table as
far in advance of your presentation as possible.
+When doing the work of voting, please be seated within the bar. The front section of chairs which is reserved
for voting members is called the bar; the seats behind the center aisle are for our visitors.
+When speaking, please be respectful of the time you have been allotted; when listening, please be respectful
of the one who is speaking. And when you speak, please address the chair, and not the other voting members
of the assembly directly.
Greetings from Thiel College
Bishop Kusserow introduced Pastor Jayne Thompson, Thiel’s Campus Pastor, who brought greetings from Thiel College.
Report of the Bishop
Bishop Kusserow yielded the chair to Vice President James. Mr. James then invited Bishop Kusserow to present his
report to the assembly.
Bishop Kusserow began his report with prayer. He noted that his written report (p. 110 of the BOR) is a reflection on
major trends and themes of our synod’s life and ministry:
+Our calling to accompany the poor with the Gospel,
+Our commitment to build the unity of the Church,
+Our collegial goal to foster a theology of Grace that includes freedom and humility,
+Our intention to structure our synod in order to serve our mission,
+Our challenge to find creative and authentic ways to fund our ministry, and
+Our comfort that the Gospel does fit any context in which we find ourselves.
Bishop Kusserow shared that the one-year pilot project that resulted in Pastor Paul Lubold serving in our synod office
as the regional developer for advocacy with Lutheran Advocacy Ministry in Pennsylvania is coming to an end after four
years. His role in that capacity will end this summer. The Synod Council is looking at how we might take up in a new
way the work that he has been doing among us to raise up the cause of advocacy, particularly among the poor.
The bishop then spoke about the sabbatical leave that he will begin next week and the plans that are in place for the
care and governance of this synod in his absence. He shared that he has every confidence in the staff that assists him
in serving the synod. Our administrative assistants, Sandy DeLorenze, Gloria Knezovich and Carol Ruckert, and our
accountant, Bob Cairns, will continue to labor through the summer at the synod office. Each of them has already picked
up additional work to help our synod continue in ministry as fully as possible. Their work on your behalf this summer will
be one more expression of their diligence in office, for which he is very grateful. His pastoral assistants, Ed Sheehan
and Sarah Lee-Faulkner, will likewise continue in their ministry of the care and oversight of the rostered leaders and
congregations of this synod in his absence.
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He noted that last weekend Pastor Lee-Faulkner’s name was included in the call process for the next bishop of the West
Virginia/Western Maryland Synod. He shared he was pleased to report that Pastor Matthew Riegel was elected bishop,
so that Sarah will remain here in service with him on behalf of the synod. Her discernment of that call was similar to the
situation many in our church have faced from time to time. And that is, having heard the external call of God mediated
through the invitation of others, there comes the need to respond. It seems good always to be open to the work of the
Spirit, as Sarah was, and to be willing to serve as God calls through the Church.
Bishop Kusserow noted that while he is away on sabbatical leave, the Bishop Emeritus of the Allegheny Synod, Gregory
Pile, will be our synod’s acting bishop. Our Synod Council has entered into an agreement with him to be present one
day a week in the office and to be available to our synod staff by cell phone and e-mail at other times. Bishop Pile plans
to be here with us in assembly tomorrow morning. Bishop Kusserow stated it would be his joy to introduce him at that
time and will invite him to address the assembly. The bishop is pleased that Bishop Pile has agreed to come and serve
our synod in this way. Bishop Kusserow spoke of Bishop Pile as warm and collegial, very knowledgeable and a great
partner in ministry in our life together as a synod.
The bishop shared that for the rest and renewal of his body, mind and spirit, he plans to build a landscaping wall out
of stone around the cement patio in the front yard of his house. He shared a picture, noting the patio really could use
something to improve it and pledged that he would keep his feet on the ground at all times.
I Peter 2 tells us that our Lord Jesus builds with living stones. The bishop said he will ponder what that means over the
course of the summer. How we are like stones and how we are not? And what does it mean that it is our Lord Jesus
who builds the church, and not we ourselves? He believes that one intended learning is to experience the truth that the
church will get on just fine without him, and that the meaning of his life is not entirely to be found only in his professional
vocation.
Bishop Kusserow shared that the educational component of his time away will be an independent study with Father
Chris Kappes at the Byzantine Catholic Seminary on Observatory Hill in Pittsburgh. He will guide the bishop through
a reading of the early church theologians, with an emphasis on how they thought of the person of Jesus Christ before
Christology was formally defined in the fourth-century Council of Nicea. It will be a great personal joy for him to have
time to study pre-Nicean Christology.
Bishop Kusserow expressed appreciation to the synod staff as he introduced them:
Pastor Sarah M. Lee-Faulkner
Pastor Ed Sheehan
Pastor Blair W. Morgan
AIM Elizabeth Caywood
Ms. Sandra J. DeLorenze
Ms. Gloria C. Knezovich
Ms. Carol D. Ruckert
Mr. Robert J. Cairns
Marty Burkett
Patty Davidson
Director for Evangelical Mission
Director of the Synod Resource Center
Administrative Assistant to Bishop Kusserow
Administrative Assistant to Pastor Lee-Faulkner
Receptionist and Administrative Assistant to Pastor Sheehan
Accountant in the Treasurer’s Office
Part-time Administrative Assistant to Pastor Morgan
Health and Wellness Coordinator (has office space at the synod office as part of the synod’s partnership with Lutheran SeniorLife)
Vice President James then called upon Pastor Melissa Stoller to provide the report of the Committee on the Bishop’s
Report. Pastor Stoller reported the following on behalf of the committee.
Report of the Committee on the Bishop’s Report
We have come to the time again in the assembly proceedings when you are invited to wonder about the
talking heads that are providing reports that appear to be rather redundant.
Contrary to popular belief, the report on the Bishop’s report is not like the Republican or Democratic
response to the President’s State of the Union address. We do not plan on rebutting the many key points
our wonderful leader has lifted up. In fact, we plan to do quite the opposite. We hope to emphasize for you
the great talent and excitement that is energizing our synod leaders and staff, and we hope that you too will
catch the Spirit that is moving in new and varied ways.
First, it is our great pleasure to lift up the work of our Bishop Kusserow, the Assistants to the Bishop Rev.
Sarah Lee-Faulkner and Rev. Ed Sheehan, our Director for Evangelical Mission, Rev. Blair Morgan and our
Resource Center Coordinator Beth Caywood, AIM. Rev. Paul Lubold has been an asset to the synod as
SWPA coordinator with LAMPa, and we will miss his leadership. An enormous debt of gratitude goes to our
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excellent support staff: Sandy DeLorenze, Gloria Knezovich, Bob Cairns and Carol Ruckert and we look
forward to building new and health-filled relationships with Patty Davidson.
We have much to celebrate and be thankful for in our Synod right now. Relationships continue to grow and
the sense of collegiality is strong. In order to continue this healthy trend, annual reviews will be instituted for
every staff member, based on a format that has been used for our ELCA staff, and will expand to include
our wonderful rostered and support staff members. This is not an opportunity to evaluate so much as it is
an opportunity for mutual ministry and a chance to foster internal integrity and collegial relationships. The
Bishop will also begin a process of reflection and review with a mutual ministry committee for his office that
will serve as a mirror, being supportive while being honest.
It is a wonderful time for this assessment; as it is initiated in a time of calm rather than a response to a crisis.
This time can be likened to that of a sailing ship; after weathering harsh and debilitating storms, she has
now been safely harbored. In the harbor we attend to repairs and renovations, preparing it to sail again.
Because while “a ship in port is safe, that is not what ships are built for.” ~John Augustus Shedd
However the waters are different now. We cannot use the same navigational techniques. The way we
understand and do church is changing. From the way we raise up new leaders, to the way we understand
the needs for various leadership gifts in congregations. To the way we understand our institutional structures,
job descriptions and communications in a quickly changing panorama.
But the water itself has not changed. The call to live out our Baptismal call: to proclaim Christ through word
and deed, care for others and the world God made, and work for justice and peace; this call continues to
shape us as children of God. We are a church that responds to the needs of our neighbors, especially the
hungry, the poor and the homeless. The Spirit is guiding us to ministry to and especially with these brothers
and sisters in our synod, and the challenge set before us is this: How will we live into this new identity?
Which brings us to the frame of our bishop’s report: Sabbath. At the close of this Assembly, we will pack up
our Bishop and send him away for 3 months. Sabbaticals are a gift we give to our ministry leaders, offering
them a chance to rest and renew. But we are challenged to think on how we observe the Sabbath in our own
lives. Sabbath, the day of rest, is the commitment to trust our creator and dwell with the Spirit. Therefore
the best way we can truly live into this new identity that Christ calls us to share is to first listen, then reflect,
dream and follow. This is the gift of the Sabbath. This is the gift of the church. And these are the gifts we lift
up today as we celebrate God’s faithfulness as we embark on God’s renewed vision for our life together.
Respectfully submitted: Rev. Scott Bryte, Ms. Andrea Dubler, Rev. Margarethe Galbraith-Cordes, Rev. Melissa Stoller
Bishop Kusserow resumed the chair of the assembly.
Report of the Vice President
Bishop Kusserow introduced Vice President R. Brandon James. Mr. James made reference to his written report on
page 114 of the BOR where he reported the number of Synod Council meetings he has chaired. He spoke of the Ethel
Verney endowment and encouraged others to think about the possibility of leaving similar gifts to the church. Mr. James
encouraged individuals and congregations to be faithful in their Mission Support giving for the sake of the mission of
the whole church. He noted that the latest revisions to the Model Constitution for Congregations include provisions for
holding electronic meetings. He suggested that congregations be in touch with the Constitution Committee to bring their
constitutions up to date.
Report of the Secretary
Bishop Kusserow introduced Secretary Jeannette Christensen who used PowerPoint slides as she spoke about her
baptism. At the white marble font her parents made promises from which they never wavered: to faithfully bring her to
the services of God’s house and teach her the Lord’s Prayer, the Creed and the Ten Commandments; and to place in
her hands the Holy Scriptures and provide for instruction in the Christian faith.
Secretary Christensen shared that while she doesn’t remember the day she was baptized, she will never forget that day.
For there at the font, in the richness of God’s mercy and love, with water and with the Word, she was given a new birth
into a living hope. At the white marble font she was freed from sin and death and joined to the death and resurrection
of our Lord Jesus Christ. There she was reborn a child of God and made a member of the church, the body of Christ.
There she was united with all the baptized in the one body of Christ, anointed with the gift of the Holy Spirit and joined in
God’s mission for the life of the world. There she joined each and every one of those present here today in an intimate
relationship as sisters and brothers of the priesthood we all share in Christ Jesus. As our assembly theme reminds us,
we belong to each other in Christ Jesus. All of us, here and now, in the far and wide present and future, together with
the saints that have gone before us, we are the children of God.
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Ms. Christensen noted that our statistical records indicate that we have 67,762 baptized members in our synod. We
could think of it like this: at least 67,672 times one of the 234 pastors in our 174 congregations has had the privilege of
making the sign of the cross on the forehead of the newly baptized. And we the baptized, the gathered witnesses to this
incredible gift, have had our hearts stirred, goosebumps run up and down our spine and have had to fight back tears
of awe as the water is sprinkled and the baptized is marked with the cross of Christ forever. We can barely fathom the
incredible gift with which we have been blessed. But our Heavenly Father does not leave us at the font. At the same
time we are welcomed into the body of Christ, we are welcomed into the mission we share. God calls us to gather with
others in community. He calls us to partake of the body and blood of Christ so that we are strengthened and renewed.
And God sends us out and gives us work to do with others. He wants us to do his work together – doing the very things
we promised to do, with his help, when we affirmed our baptism:
+ To live among God’s faithful people,
+ To hear is Word and share in his supper
+ To proclaim the good news of God in Christ through word and deed
+ To serve all people, following the example of our Lord Jesus,
+ And to strive for justice and peace in all the earth.
Ms. Christensen shared that while she can’t remember the day she was baptized, she can remember her baptism every
day. She can notice the water that splashes on her face and remember that she belongs to Christ in whom she has
been baptized. And no matter the amount of water that splashes, she is marked with the cross of Christ forever. God
has claimed her as his child. She is always his child. God loves her. God will always love her. YES! - We all belong to
Christ, in whom we have been baptized. Alleluia!
Report of the Treasurer
Bishop Kusserow introduced Treasurer Tom Beecher. Mr. Beecher reported that Mission Support giving year to date is
already about $35,000 behind that projected. He encouraged congregations to be faithful in Mission Support giving. He
noted that the past year’s operating deficit was funded by the Congregation Legacy Fund and temporary unrestricted
funds, and that the Budget and Finance Committee works diligently to ensure that the synod’s assets are used to best
financial advantage. Mr. Beecher pointed to the Audit Report of Maher Duessel in the BOR. He expressed appreciation
to Bob Cairns, the Synod Accountant, for his ongoing work.
Presentation of the Budget for 2016
Bishop Kusserow introduced Pastor Frank Podolinski, Jr., chair of the Budget and Finance Committee, to present the
budget for 2016. He noted that the Synod Council recommended budget is shown on pages 173-177 of the BOR.
He reminded the assembly that the presentation of the proposed budget at this point in the agenda is for information
purposes. The assembly will vote on the proposed budget at 3:45 p.m. on Friday as part of the Report of the Synod
Council. Bishop Kusserow also reminded the assembly that pursuant to the recommendation that was adopted earlier
today, any amendments to the budget must be in writing and must be referred to the Committee on Reference and
Counsel by the end of Thursday’s plenary session.
Pastor Podolinski thanked the Budget and Finance Committee for their faithful work. He noted that the committee
sought to be faithful to live within our means while at the same time prayerfully seeking God’s vision for the future of our
synod. He noted that the Legacy Fund has been a blessing as we steward gifts in the ministry we share together. He
reported that a subcommittee has begun review of off-budget funds and donor intent to determine whether any of those
funds can be allocated for today’s ministry needs. Pastor Podolinski then reviewed the budget as presented on pages
173-177 of the BOR, noting that the projected revenue is not much different than last year; there will be a slight increase
in rental income as a result of the lease with the State Farm Insurance representative.
Report of the Committee on Nominations
Bishop Kusserow called upon Ms. Janet Franzen and Pastor Peggy Suhr-Barkley, co-chairpersons of the Committee on
Nominations, for the report of the committee. Ms. Franzen referred the assembly to the written report of the committee
on BOR pages 181-186 and noted that biographical information on nominees begins of page 261 of the BOR.
Ms. Franzen reported that the following nominees for Synod Council positions were added to the Report of the Committee
on Nominations following conference meetings:
Conference nominations for Synod Council – Clergy
Conference 1
Margarethe Galbraith-Cordes
Conference 3
Terri Landers
Conference 5
Clifton J. Suehr
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David A. Snyder
Ross I. Carmichael
Matthew C. Stabe
BULLETIN OF REPORTS
Conference nominations for Synod Council - Laypersons
Conference 2
Janet A. Flecken
Conference 4
Betty Albright
Conference 6
Monica Broecker
Nadine M. Simon
Linda Reed
Sue Divine
The Report of the Committee on Nominations for each position on the ballot as shown on pages 181-186 of the BOR
was presented by Ms. Franzen. For each of the positions, opportunity was given for nominations from the floor of the
assembly. The following nominations were made from the floor.
Churchwide Assembly Voting Member
Nominated by Kelly Spanninger
Panel 1, Youth Female
St. Andrew, Shadyside
Miranda Pino, St. Andrew, Shadyside
Nominated by Pastor Kara Propst
Panel 1, Clergy
Salem, Delmont
Pastor Margarethe Galbraith-Cordes
Nominated by Pastor Janice Altenberger
Panel 1, Clergy
Our Saviour, North Huntington
Pastor Linda Theophilus
Emmanuel, Pittsburgh (Eastmont)
Nominated by Jeanne Suehr
Panel 2, Clergy
Holy Trinity, Irwin
Pastor Christopher Suehr
Hope, Cranberry
Lutherlyn Board of Directors
Nominated by Mary Ann Swanson
Lay Person or Clergy
First English, Butler
Rachelle Fritz, Trinity, Gibsonia
Camp Agape Board of Directors
Nominated by Pastor Richard Krug
Lay Person
St. John’s, North Versailles
Brenda M. Neundorf
St. John’s, North Versailles
Nominated by Pastor Dennis Orsen
Lay Person
Retired
Karen L. Shaffer
St. Andrew, Shadyside
Report of the Synod Council Nominating Committee
Bishop Kusserow called upon Pastor Jennifer McCurry, a member of the Synod Council Nominating Committee, for
the report of the Committee. Pastor McCurry noted that pursuant to the synod’s bylaws (S9.06 and S9.07) the Synod
Council shall nominate at least two persons for secretary and treasurer. Bylaw S8.41 allows that the treasurer may be
elected by the Synod Assembly or may be appointed by the Synod Council. In January the Synod Council directed that
the Treasurer be appointed by the Synod Council in 2015 for a four year term rather than elected by the 2015 Synod
Assembly.
Pastor McCurry reported there are two candidates for Synod Secretary: Ms. Jeannette Christensen and Pastor Larry
Mort. She reported that the committee has not yet identified a candidate for appointment as Treasurer and invited the
assembly to pray with the committee about this.
Bishop Kusserow then recessed the First Plenary Session so that the voting members of the Northwestern Pennsylvania
Synod could join with the voting members of the Southwestern Pennsylvania Synod for the Report of the ELCA
Representative.
Report of the ELCA Representative
Bishop Ralph Jones, Northwestern Pennsylvania Synod, introduced Presiding Bishop Elizabeth Eaton. Bishop Eaton
extended greetings from the other 64 synods and the 3.8 million Lutherans around the country and the Caribbean.
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Bishop Eaton recognized the work of synodical bishops Kusserow and Jones, and the many other capacities in which
they serve the Church beyond their role as synod bishops. She remarked that it is “great to see how your bishops love
you and how you love your bishops.”
Bishop Eaton thanked the synods for their generous support of the work of the whole church. She acknowledged
the Northwestern Pennsylvania Synod for its contribution of $425,000 to churchwide mission support and $102,000
to World Hunger; and the Southwestern Pennsylvania Synod for its $773,000 to churchwide mission support and
$188,000 to World Hunger. She also recognized the generous gifts in support of the Campaign for the ELCA, Lutheran
Disaster Response and the Lutheran Malaria Initiative.
Bishop Eaton noted that based on the most recent Pew report some people are ready to sit shiva for the church.
However the church is not dying, it’s changing. We are here and so is Christ – and that’s important. There are many
signs of life across our church including 508 new congregations that were started since 1986. She shared that half of
the new starts are in communities of color and among people in poverty.
The Bishop spoke about the first ever comprehensive “Campaign for the ELCA” which was overwhelmingly approved
by voting members at the 2013 Churchwide Assembly. The five-year campaign was launched on February 1, 2014 and
will end January 31, 2019. The campaign seeks to
+ Renew and begin new congregations
+ End poverty and hunger, and overcome malaria
+ Identify, train and support new leaders and engage young people in the life of this church
+ Expand the ELCA’s disability ministries
+ Grow the church’s capacity to serve globally, support ELCA missionaries and women leaders among global
companion churches.
Bishop Eaton spoke of events to look forward to across our church including:
+ The National Youth Gathering in Detroit this July where about 30,000 youth are expected for learning, worship
and fellowship and where they will also engage in service projects across the city of Detroit.
+ A Worship Jubilee in Atlanta later this summer in preparation for the 500th Anniversary of the Reformation.
+ Our third annual God’s Work, Our Hands Sunday on September 13. Visit www.elca.org/dayofservice for ideas.
+ The next Churchwide Assembly in August of 2016 – and a Grace Gathering for people who are not voting
members to come alongside for a 3-day event and an opportunity to see our church in action.
+ The 500th Anniversary of the Reformation in 2017. We do not celebrate the fracturing of the church; we observe
it and continue our dialogue with the Roman Catholic Church. It is possible that ecumenical agreements may be
presented to the Vatican and the Lutheran World Federation before 2017. The Bishop thanked the Southwestern
Pennsylvania Synod for their work on the document and companion study guide, From Conflict to Communion.
Bishop Eaton shared that she and staff at the ELCA office in Chicago are presently involved in a study of Luther’s Small
Catechism. She then declared: We are the Church. We are Lutheran. We are Church Together. We are Church for the
Sake of the World.
Reports of Camp Agape and Camp Lutherlyn
Vice President James, Southwestern Pennsylvania Synod, introduced Camp Agape. Camp Director Lavinia Wingert
shared that the camp holds resident and day camps for children and youth who need to improve their reading and
math skills. The campers also enjoy typical camp activities including swimming, fishing, and cookouts while living in the
beauty and wonder of God’s creation as they experience an intentional Christian Community. She noted that the camp is
also available for retreats for various groups. Ms. Wingert noted that additional information about the camp is available
in the assembly packets and at the ministry fair table.
Vice President Schubert, Northwestern Pennsylvania Synod, introduced Camp Lutherlyn. Led by Deb Roberts, Associate
Director, camp staff shared a number of camp songs. Pastor Randy Gullickson, Executive Director, then shared a letter
written to a congregation lamenting the sale of camps in Michigan and noted that many other camps around the country
are closing. He shared that Lutherlyn anticipates 1,000 campers this summer while 15 years ago they had about 2,000
campers. He shared that Lutherlyn needs financial support and he asked congregations and individuals to invest in
camp ministry.
The synods recessed at 5:00 p.m. for a picnic dinner and Ministry Fair where agencies and committees staffed tables
with information about their ministries.
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BULLETIN OF REPORTS
Thursday Evening, June 12, 7:00 p.m.
Northwestern Pennsylvania and Southwestern Pennsylvania Synods
Keynote Address
Bishop Kusserow introduced the Keynote Speaker, The Rev. Dr. Philip H. Pfatteicher, who focused his address on
“Pilgrim’s Progress," a 1678 Christian allegory written by John Bunyan that teaches us about our lives as Christians.
The leading character is named Christian who represents each one of us. From him we learn about ourselves and
our journey. This world is not our home and we must not get too comfortable in it. We are on a prolonged journey to
a place we have never seen but which we know is our home, the Promised Land. For this all Christians should have
a deep homesickness. And yet, from Christian we learn that we are not to ignore the world in which we live; we are to
seek and work for the wellbeing of the world. Christian is not alone on his journey; he meets many pilgrims along the
way. Christian’s life is personal yet communal. We need other people to remind us of our weakness, foolishness and
sinfulness. We should not spend time worrying about the wrongs of others but first give attention to ourselves so that
we can be prepared to serve others, to actively love our neighbors. Community enables charity. We walk together. We
need one another. The church of God is a community.
The assembly rose to sing the hymn “On Christ the Solid Rock I Stand” as members of the Northwestern Pennsylvania
Synod departed the Passavant Center.
SECOND PLENARY SESSION
Thursday Evening, June 12
Bishop Kurt Kusserow reconvened the Southwestern Pennsylvania Synod Assembly at 7:42 p.m. for the Second
Plenary Session.
Bishop Kusserow called upon Pastor Robert Schaefer, chair of the Committee on Registration and Attendance, for a
report of the committee. Pastor Schaefer reported the following:
Voting Members, Clergy
Voting Members, Lay Persons
Voting Members, Total
Visitors
Youth Convo (voting members under 21)
Present at Assembly 115
201
15
316
29
15
345
Election – First Ballot – Officers, Synod Council and Voting Members to CWA
Bishop Kusserow called upon Pastor Paul Gruesu, chair, Committee on Elections, to present the First Ballot for officers,
Synod Council members and Voting Members to the Churchwide Assembly.
Bishop Kusserow called upon the Chaplains Suehr to lead the assembly in prayer.
Ballots were cast using the electronic voting machines.
Bishop Kusserow recessed the Second Plenary Session at 8:13 p.m.
Taizé Vespers for Healing was held in the David Johnson Memorial Chapel at 8:30 p.m. and at 9:30 p.m.
Fellowship was held in the Howard Miller Center at 8:30 p.m. and at 9:30 p.m.
Taizé Vespers for Healing
Stay With Me
The Prayer of the Day
Bless the Lord
The Psalm Antiphon
Psalm 4
The Psalm Antiphon The Psalm Prayer
The Lesson
Silent Meditation
The Gospel Canticle
1 John 1:1-7
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The Song of Light
The Prayer for Light
The Song of Adoration
The Prayers for Healing
The Lord’s Prayer
The Concluding Prayer
The Blessing
Meditative Chants and Anointing
Leading the Liturgy
Anointing
Music
All Praise to Thee, My God, This Night
Let us Praise Your Name
ELW 155
Christ Jesus
In the Lord
Ubi Caritas
The Reverend Brian A. Evans
The Reverend Jayne Thompson
Campus Pastor, Thiel College
The Reverend Harold Jacobson
Grace Lutheran Church, Clarion
The Reverend Tedd Cogar
Luther Chapel, Coral
The Reverend Mike Sourwine
House of Prayer, Aliquippa
The Reverend A. Patrice Weirick
Faith Lutheran Church, Aliquippa
Van Kirk Lutheran Church, Monaca
The Reverend Sarah Lee-Faulkner
The Reverend Ed Sheehan
Assistants to Bishop Kusserow
Beth Grafton, viola and violin
Zion Lutheran Church, Indiana
The Rev. Jean Caudill, flute
Mt. Zion Lutheran Church, Smicksburg
The Rev. Karen Parsh, flute
St. Paul’s Lutheran Church, Knox
The Rev. Brian Riddle, guitar
St. Paul’s Lutheran Church, Cambridge Springs
Andrew Sabol, piano
St. Paul’s Lutheran Church, Canonsburg
THIRD PLENARY SESSION
Friday Morning, June 12, 2015
Call to Order
The Third Session of the Synod Assembly was reconvened by Bishop Kusserow at 8:33 a.m. on Friday, June 12, 2015.
Opening Devotions
Opening devotions were led by Assembly Chaplains Suehr.
Bishop Kusserow called upon Pastor Robert Schaefer, chair of the Committee on Registration and Attendance, to
provide a report of the committee. Pastor Schaefer reported the following:
Voting Members, Clergy
Voting Members, Lay Persons
Visitors
Youth Convo (Voters under 21)
201
15
318
29
15
347
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BULLETIN OF REPORTS
Bishop Kusserow called upon Pastor Terri Landers, chairperson of the Committee on Minutes. Pastor Landers moved
that the minutes of the First and Second Sessions be approved.
The motion carried.
Bishop Kusserow called upon Pastor Natalie Hall, chair, Committee on Reference and Counsel, to give the report of the
committee. Pastor Hall shared that the committee had nothing to report at this time.
Report of the Committee on Elections - First Ballot
Bishop Kusserow called upon Pastor Paul Gruesu, chairperson of the Committee on Elections, to report the results of
the First Ballot, Officers, Synod Council and Voting Members to the Churchwide Assembly. Pastor Schaefer reported
the results.
Office of Vice President – Layperson
Term Expires 2019
Number to be elected
Number of ballots cast
Number of invalid ballots
Number of valid ballots
Number necessary to elect
Votes received R. Brandon James
Ted Schroeder
1
257
0
257
129
151
106
Bishop Kusserow declared R. Brandon James elected to the Office of Vice President.
Office of Secretary – Layperson or Clergy
Term Expires 2019
1
261
0
261
131
Votes received
187
Pastor Larry Mort
74
Bishop Kusserow declared Jeannette Christensen elected to the Office of Secretary.
Synod Council
Member at Large – Clergy
Term Expires 2019
Votes received Melba Dibble
William A. Schaefer
1
259
0
259
130
109
150
Bishop Kusserow declared William A. Schaefer elected to the Synod Council.
Synod Council
Member at Large – Layperson
Term Expires 2019
1
262
0
208
BULLETIN OF REPORTS
Number necessary to elect Votes received
Christopher Atwood
Charles M. Churby II
Sarah Lundie
262
132
72
44
146
Bishop Kusserow declared Sarah Lundie elected to the Synod Council.
Synod Council
Young Adult Representative
Term Expires 2019
Number to be elected Number of ballots cast
Number necessary to be elected
Votes received
Andrew Sabol
Virginia Kreisel
1
263
0
263
132
155
108
Bishop Kusserow declared Andrew Sabol elected to the Synod Council.
Synod Council
Youth Representative, Term Expires 2017
Number necessary to be elected
Votes received
Fiona G. Lubold
Erik Nordby
1
269
0
269
135
129
140
Bishop Kusserow declared Erik Nordby elected to the Synod Council.
Synod Council
Conference 1 Representative – Clergy
Term Expires 2019
Votes received
David A. Snyder
1
273
0
273
137
196
77
Bishop Kusserow declared Margarethe Galbraith-Cordes elected to the Synod Council.
Synod Council
Conference 2 Representative – Layperson
Term Expires 2019
Votes received
Nadine M. Simon
Janet A. Flecken
1
250
0
250
126
119
131
Bishop Kusserow declared Janet A. Flecken elected to the Synod Council.
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BULLETIN OF REPORTS
Synod Council
Term Expires 2019
Votes received
Terri L. Landers
Ross I. Carmichael
1
263
0
263
132
130
133
Bishop Kusserow declared Ross I. Carmichael elected to Synod Council.
Synod Council
Term Expires 2019
Votes received
Betty Albright
Linda Reed
1
258
0
258
130
129
129
There was no election. Candidates Betty Albright and Linda Reed will advance to the next ballot.
Synod Council
Term Expires 2019
1
271
0
271
136
Votes received
Matthew C. Stabe
126
Clifton J. Suehr
145
Bishop Kusserow declared Clifton J. Suehr elected to the Synod Council.
Synod Council
Term Expires 2019
Votes received
Monica Broecker
Susan (Sue) Devine
1
263
0
263
132
116
147
Bishop Kusserow declared Susan (Sue) Devine elected to the Synod Council.
Voting Member to the 2016 Churchwide
Assembly, Panel 1, Laywoman
210
1
265
0
265
133
BULLETIN OF REPORTS
Votes received
Tricia Christman
Christine F. Stahl
Janice G. Jeletic
80
87
98
There was no election. Candidates Christine F. Stahl and Janice G. Jeletic will advance to the next ballot.
Assembly, Panel 1, Layman
Votes received
Kenneth W. Neundorf
Andrew Sabol
1
264
0
264
133
118
146
Bishop Kusserow declared Andrew Sabol elected as a Voting Member to the 2016 Churchwide Assembly.
Assembly, Panel 1, Youth Female
Votes received
Fiona G. Lubold
Miranda Pino
1
272
0
272
137
147
125
Bishop Kusserow declared Fiona G. Lubold elected as a Voting Member to the 2016 Churchwide Assembly.
Voting Members to the 2016 Churchwide
Assembly, Panel 1, Clergy
Votes received
Kimberly A. Rapczak
Brian B. Chaffee
Edward F. Sheehan
Kara J. Propst
Matthew Stabe Michael Ryan
Natalie L. G. Hall
Linda Theophilus
2
271
0
271
136
33
65
132
51
33
25
57
91
49
There was no election. Candidates Edward F. Sheehan, Margarethe Galbraith-Cordes, Brian B. Chaffee and Natalie L.
G. Hall will advance to the next ballot.
Assembly, Panel 2, Laywoman
211
2
272
1
271
136
BULLETIN OF REPORTS
Votes received
Amy Santoriello
Rachelle Fritz
Judith Rogers
Holly O. Schmitt
148
107
112
155
Bishop Kusserow declared Holly O. Schmitt and Amy Santoriello elected as Voting Members to the 2016 Churchwide
Assembly.
Assembly, Panel 2, Layman
Votes received
Dennis T. Lane
Edward W. Sites
1
271
0
271
136
144
127
Bishop Kusserow declared Dennis T. Lane elected as a Voting Member to the 2016 Churchwide Assembly.
Assembly, Panel 2, Laywoman of Color or
Primary Language Other than English
Votes received
Teresa L. Armor
1
264
0
264
133
264
Bishop Kusserow declared Teresa L. Armor elected as a Voting Member to the 2016 Churchwide Assembly.
Assembly, Panel 2, Layman of Color or
Primary Language Other than English
Votes received
Wilmus Roger Randolph III
Steven Gallego
1
264
0
264
133
132
132
There was no election. Candidates Wilmus Roger Randolph III and Steven Gallego will advance to the next ballot.
Assembly, Panel 2, Young Adult Layman
Votes received
Colin Blackburn
Samuel F. Sesti III
1
263
0
263
132
159
104
Bishop Kusserow declared Colin Blackburn elected as a Voting Member to the 2016 Churchwide Assembly.
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BULLETIN OF REPORTS
Votes received
William A. Schaefer
William B. Diehm
Christine A. Ingold
Scott A. Bryte
Heather S. Lubold
A. Patrice Weirick
David A. Snyder
Christopher Suehr
3
275
2
273
137
129
115
116
109
104
77
54
107
There was no election. Candidates William A. Schaefer, Christina A. Ingold, William B. Diehm, Scott A. Bryte, Christopher
Suehr and Heather Lubold will advance to the next ballot.
Bishop Kusserow Introduces Bishop Pile
Bishop Kusserow introduced Bishop Gregory Pile who retired as bishop of the Allegheny Synod in 2014. Bishop Pile has
agreed to serve our synod as Acting Bishop on a part-time basis during the time that Bishop Kusserow is on sabbatical.
Bishop Pile shared that although he has become accustomed to retirement he welcomed the opportunity to serve the
church in this way. He has high regard for Bishop Kusserow and deeply appreciates their professional and personal
relationship. It is his desire that Bishop Kusserow’s sabbatical time be free of interruption and worry so that he can return
renewed, refreshed, and ready to continue guiding the Southwestern Pennsylvania Synod.
Bishop Kusserow called upon Pastor Peggy Suhr-Barkley, chairperson of the Committee on Memorials, for a report of
the committee. Pastor Suhr-Barkley reported that a Memorial was received from Conferences 1, 4 and 6 for “Education
Supporting the Word and Service Task Force Recommendations to Consolidate Current Lay Rosters into a Single
Roster of Deacon." The changes made to the versions of the three conferences were editorial in nature only. The
original memorial was authored by Deacon Christine Rotella, Chaplain and Mission Developer of Abiding Ministries; and
a member of the Synod Ministry Committee.
The Memorials Committee recommends the adoption of the Substitute Memorial. The Substitute Memorial was read.
Memorial
For Education Supporting the Word and Service Task Force Recommendations
to Consolidate Current Lay Rosters into a Single Roster of Deacon
(Received from Conferences 1, 4 and 6)
Whereas, the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America has been actively exploring consolidating the Word and Service
rosters of Deaconess, Diaconal Ministry, and Associates in Ministry into a single roster to be entitled Deacon and;
Whereas, The Congregational & Synodical Mission Unit Task Force anticipates voting on the matter at the August 2016
Church Wide Assembly; and
Whereas, the most current Word and Service Task Force document states:
Rostered leaders and candidates in process will be strongly encouraged to attend gatherings (regional or
however most practical) of transition to celebrate the new roster and provide formation for a common ethos
of the diaconate, including it’s biblical, historical, ecumenical, and missional emphases. Collaboration with the
ELCA Seminaries in providing such formation is recommended.
(Section 2, bullet point 4, Word and Service Task Force Update_ February 2015)
Resolved, that all voting members attending the ELCA Church Wide Assembly in August of 2016 from SW PA synod
receive equal education about the role and evolution of the present Word and Service rosters in the life of the Church,
prior to that August 2016 Church Wide Assembly, for the sake of strengthening collegiality and our shared evangelical
mission through baptism as the Body of Christ.
Resolved, that members of SW PA Synod: staffs, councils, deans, candidacy, and call committees receive equal
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BULLETIN OF REPORTS
education in regard to the present role and evolution of the Word and Service rosters and the proposed roster of Deacon
in the life of the ELCA, in ecumenism and synodical mission.
http://download.elca.org/ELCA%20Resource%20Repository/Word_and_Service_Task_Force_Update
Substitute Memorial
For Education Supporting the Word and Service Task Force Recommendations
to Consolidate Current Lay Rosters into a Single Roster of Deacon
Whereas, the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America has been actively exploring consolidating the Word and Service
rosters of the Deaconesses, Diaconal Ministers, and Associates in Ministry into a single roster of Deacons; and
Whereas, the Congregational and Synodical Mission Unit Task Force anticipates voting on this matter at the August
2016 Churchwide Assembly; and
Whereas, the most current Word and Service Task Force document states:
Rostered leaders and candidates in process will be strongly encouraged to attend gatherings (regional
or however most practical) of transition to celebrate the new roster and provide formation for a
common ethos of the diaconate, including its biblical, historical, ecumenical, and missional emphases.
Collaboration with the ELCA Seminaries in providing such formation is recommended.
(Section 2, bullet point 4, Word and Service Task Force Update, February 2015)
Be it resolved that, prior to the August 2016 Churchwide Assembly, the Committee on Ministry will provide education
about the role and evolution of the present Word and Service rosters in the life of the Church for this synod’s 2016
Churchwide Assembly voting members and its congregational and synodical leadership for the sake of strengthening
collegiality and our shared evangelical mission through baptism as the Body of Christ.
http://download.elca.org/ELCA%20Resource%20Repository/Word_and_Service_Task_Force_Update
Voting was by voice.
The motion carried; the Substitute Memorial for Education Supporting the Word and Service Task Force Recommendations
to Consolidate Current Lay Rosters into a Single Roster of Deacon was adopted.
Pastor Suhr-Barkley reported that a Resolution calling for further participation in and emphasis on hunger ministry in the
Southwestern Pennsylvania Synod for 2015-2016 was received from conferences 2, 3 and 4. The original memorial was
authored by the Hunger Task Force, Pastor Jocelyn Johnston, chairperson. The Memorials Committee recommends the
adoption of the Substitute Memorial.
Resolution calling for Further Participation in and Emphasis on Hunger Ministry
in the Southwestern Pennsylvania Synod for 2015-2016
(Received from Conferences 2, 3 and 4)
Whereas, 868 million people in our world are hungry; 1.2 billion live in extreme poverty on less than $1.25 a day; and
49 million people in the United States – one out of every six people - including 16 million children experience hunger or
the risk of hunger. *
Whereas, each day in our world, 18,000 children die from hunger or preventable diseases (one every four seconds). **
Whereas, one in four children in Pennsylvania live in food insecure households.
Whereas, hunger experts estimate that for an annual cost of $13 billion dollars per year the nutritional needs of the
world’s poorest people could be met.***
Whereas, ELCA World Hunger responds to hunger and poverty in the United States and around the world by addressing
root causes through a comprehensive program of relief, education, advocacy, sustainable development, organizing and
networking by which people are connected to the resources they need to lift themselves out of poverty.
Whereas, ELCA World Hunger responds to Christ’s call to find him in the “least of these” (Matthew 25) and “until all are
fed” serving with compassion people who are vulnerable, paying focused attention to the full participation of women and
the needs of children.
Whereas, in 2016 the focus of the Campaign for the ELCA will be ELCA World Hunger.
Be it resolved that,
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• the congregations of the Southwestern Pennsylvania Synod be encouraged to make support for ELCA World
Hunger a year round emphasis, distribute ELCA World Hunger envelopes for year round giving, and participate in
synod programs that lift up the ministry of ELCA World Hunger.
• between now and the 2016 Southwestern Pennsylvania Synod Assembly the congregations of the Southwestern
Pennsylvania Synod will each challenge themselves to take at least one additional concrete measurable step to
increase their support for hunger ministry through relief, education, advocacy, sustainable development, organizing
or networking.
• through the synod’s Hunger Task Force, each congregation will provide a summary of what they have done that
will be celebrated at the 2016 Synod Assembly.
• the Campaign for the ELCA and its 2016 ELCA World Hunger theme will be a focus of 2016 Southwestern
Pennsylvania Synod Assembly.
• encouraged to support local hunger ministries – amended line
*Statistics from ELCA World Hunger Appeal website
** “18,000 children die every day from hunger, U.N. says” USA Today (Feb 17, 2007)
***Statistics from Bred for the World
Substitute Memorial
Memorial calling for Further Participation in and Emphasis on Hunger Ministry
in the Southwestern Pennsylvania Synod for 2015-2016
Whereas, 868 million people in our world are hungry; 1.2 billion live in extreme poverty on less than $1.25 a day; and
49 million people in the United States – one out of every six people - including 16 million children experience hunger or
the risk of hunger*; and
Whereas, each day in our world, 18,000 children die from hunger or preventable diseases (one every four seconds)**;
and
Whereas, one in four children in Pennsylvania live in food insecure households; and
Whereas, hunger experts estimate that for an annual cost of $13 billion dollars per year the nutritional needs of the
world’s poorest people could be met***; and
Whereas, Evangelical Lutheran Church in America World Hunger responds to hunger and poverty in the United States
and around the world by addressing root causes through a comprehensive program of relief, education, advocacy,
sustainable development, organizing and networking by which people are connected to the resources they need to lift
themselves out of poverty; and
Whereas, ELCA World Hunger responds to Christ’s call to find him in the “least of these” (Matthew 25) and until all are
fed by serving with compassion vulnerable populations, paying focused attention to the needs of children and the full
participation of women; and
Whereas, World Hunger is a 2016 focus of “Always Being Made New”: Campaign for the ELCA; therefore be it
Resolved, that the Synod Assembly affirm the work of the Southwestern Pennsylvania Hunger Task Force and thank
them for their diligent work to educate and encourage year round support of the ELCA World Hunger; and be it further
Resolved, that the Hunger Task Force continue to provide synodical leadership to our congregations and other ministries
of the Southwestern Pennsylvania Synod about hunger issues; and be it further
Resolved, that the Hunger Task Force collect information from congregations and others ministries about their initiatives
to address hunger; and be it further
Resolved, that the Southwestern Pennsylvania Synod Assembly Planning Committee lift up World Hunger as a special
emphasis during our 2016 Synod Assembly.
*Statistics from the ELCA World Hunger Appeal web site
** “18,000 children die every day from hunger, U.N. says.” USA Today (Feb. 17, 2007)
*** Statistics from Bread for the World
Pastor Jocelyn Johnston, Trinity Lutheran Church, Freeport, spoke in support of the memorial.
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The motion carried; the Memorial Calling for Further Participation in and Emphasis on Hunger Ministry in Southwestern
Pennsylvania Synod for 2015 was adopted.
Pastor Suhr-Barkley thanked the conferences for submitting the memorials and thanked the members of the Memorial
Committee for their work.
At 9:55 a.m. Bishop Kusserow announced there would be a ten-minute break; the plenary session was resumed at
10:05 a.m.
Report of the Synod Council
Bishop Kusserow called upon Secretary Christensen for the Report of the Synod Council. Secretary Christensen moved
Synod Council Recommendation 3.
That the following Mission Support Formula be adopted for 2016:
As congregations, we ask our members to give proportionately according to the gifts God has entrusted
to them. As the Church, we ask our synods to give proportionately as they have been blessed. As
the Southwestern Pennsylvania Synod, we encourage each congregation to also give proportionately.
Each congregation is asked to give a minimum of 12% of its current operating expense to synodical
Mission Support. If you are below 12%, please set a goal for your congregation to grow to at least 12%,
according to the gifts God has entrusted to you. If it will take more than one year, take a faithful step
toward that goal in 2015. The Synod Council may request consultation with congregations which have
decreased their commitment from the previous year.
Bishop Kusserow then recognized the 23 congregations in our synod that contributed 12% or more of their current
operating expense to Synodical Mission Support in the past year.
Trinity
Zion
Christ
Berkeley Hills
Seaman Memorial
Emmanuel
St. Michael’s Grace
First Prince of Peace Trinity
Faith St. John St. Peter
Faith
Mt. Lebanon United
Holy Trinity
First English
Bethlehem
St. Andrew’s
St. John’s Good Shepherd
Butler
Zelienople
Ford City
Ford City
Manorville
Greensburg
Latrobe
Latrobe
New Florence
Glassport
Uniontown
White Oak
Butler
Glenshaw
North Versailles
Mount Pleasant
Secretary Christensen then moved Synod Council Recommendation 5:
That the next Synodical Capital Campaign Appeal be the “Always Being Made New: The Campaign for the
ELCA” (which includes World Hunger and Malaria Campaign) together with a Synod component, begin January
2017 and extend through June 2018, and that the Resource Development Committee be directed to work out
the details of implementation.
Pastor Kirk W. Bish, Retired, asked about the amount of the synod component. Bishop Kusserow responded that the
amount of the synod component had not yet been finalized.
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A video of “Always Being Made New: The Campaign for the ELCA was shown.
http://www.elca.org/Our-Work/Campaign-for-the-ELCA
Committee on Elections – Second Ballot
Bishop Kusserow called upon Pastor Paul Gruesu, chair of the Committee on Elections, for presentation of the Second
Ballot for Synod Council and Voting Members to the Churchwide Assembly. Pastor Gruesu presented the ballot.
The Chaplains Suehr were invited by Bishop Kusserow to lead the assembly in prayer.
The ballots were cast using electronic voting machines.
Bishop Kusserow noted that the Recommendations of the Synod Council are found on BOR page 172 and the proposed
Compensation Guidelines for 2016 were included in the assembly packets. He also noted that each recommendation
would be shown on the projection screen.
That the “Minimum Compensation Guidelines for Ordained Ministers” for 2016 be modified to reflect an increase
of 1.7% in base cash salary (from $34,210 to $34,792) and that there be no increase in housing allowance
(maintaining the current recommendation of $16,084).
That the “Minimum Compensation Guidelines” for Associates in Ministry, Diaconal Ministers and Deaconesses
for 2016 be modified to reflect an increase of 1.7% in base cash salary (from $29,966 to $30,475).
That the following clause be inserted into “Minimum Compensation Guidelines for Ordained Ministers, Associates
in Ministry, Diaconal Ministers, and Deaconesses for 2016” under Section II, Reimbursement of Expenses:
Technology: In our current environment, computers, and other technological items are often
considered essential to ministry. Congregations are encouraged to discuss the needs of the particular
context. Congregations should assume the costs of a computer, cell phone service, or other needed
items in accordance with IRS guidelines. Tax policy concerning technology reimbursements changes
rapidly; please consult a tax professional to ensure compliance with the law.
That the amount for continuing education in the “Minimum Compensation Guidelines for Ordained Ministers,
Associates in Ministry, Diaconal Ministers, and Deaconesses for 2016”, Section II, Reimbursement of Expenses
be increased from $550 to $650 (congregational contribution) and from $250 to $300 (rostered leader
contribution).
C.E. Pino, St. Andrew, Shadyside, spoke in favor of the recommendation.
That the Benefits section of the Minimum Compensation Guidelines for Pastors, Diaconal Ministers,
Deaconesses, and Associates in Ministry be amended as follows:
BENEFITS
Congregations are expected to enroll their pastors in the ELCA Pension, Health and Dental, Disability and
Survivor Plans. Calculations of contributions to pension, health and dental, disability and survivor plans are
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based upon “Defined Compensation.” To determine “Defined Compensation,” add together: cash salary, Social
Security allowance, and housing allowance.
Portico Health Plan – 2016
To maintain the current level of health benefits for our rostered leaders and lay church workers, we recommend
that the congregations of the Southwestern Pennsylvania Synod offer to provide the Gold+ ELCA health plan
option in 2016 for their rostered leaders and lay church workers. In some cases Silver+ and Bronze+ plans
(with Health Savings Account contributions) may be more beneficial for pastors and their families. Please be
in conversation about these options and consult a Portico Representative for assistance in weighing options.
Pension
Congregations in the Southwestern Pennsylvania Synod are urged to provide a minimum contribution of 12%
through Portico Benefit Services.
Health/Dental/Disability/Survivor Plans
The Board of Directors for Portico Benefit Services establishes annually the contribution amounts required to
fund the Health and Dental, Disability, and Survivor Plans. Contribution rates for the next year are normally
available in the fall. Since the contribution rates vary according to geographical location and age, you should
contact Portico Benefit Services directly for rate information.
There was discussion.
Pastor Brian Evans, First Lutheran, Pittsburgh moved to refer the questions to the Committee on Reference and Council;
second by Tom Beecher, Nativity, Allison Park.
The motion carried.
Committee on Elections
Bishop Kusserow invited Pastor Paul Gruesu, chair of the Committee on Elections, to present the First Ballot, Committee
on Discipline, Agencies and Institutions. The ballot was presented.
Bishop Kusserow invited the Chaplains Suehr to lead the assembly in prayer.
The votes were cast using the voting machines.
The Second Plenary Session recessed at 10:40 a.m.
The members of the Northwestern Pennsylvania Synod Assembly arrived at Passavant Center for the Second Keynote
address.
Second Keynote Address
Bishop Kusserow introduced the Reverend Dr. Philip Pfatteicher, the Keynote Speaker.
The Rev. Dr. Pfatteicher noted that his address this morning will focus on “Belonging to each other in Christ Jesus."
Belonging to each other in Christ means belonging to the natural world and God’s vast creation; we belong to all
humankind, an inter-dependent race, viz. “No Man Is an Island.” We who have been baptized belong to the Church
and God’s new creation. We are to kneel before the Lord our Maker in daily prayer. We are the sheep of his pasture, a
humility that we are to learn. We are not individual islands, but all joined together.
Returning to the story of Christian, the Pilgrim, journeying through this world to the world that is to come. Christian,
the pilgrim arrives into the heavenly city with the doors closing behind him. His family is calling out to him and following
him. They have heard of his adventures and struggles. They cross the river of death and wait for the summons to come.
At last the entire family is gathered into the life that has no ending. The story is not complete until the whole family is
together. His family follows him on the pilgrim’s way, belonging to each other. At first Christian appears to be alone, but
he finds friends and learns from them. He meets Hopeful and they support each other as they continue their journey.
We are responsible for others as well as ourselves on the pilgrimage; and we bring them along in myriad ways, either
by direct invitation or by example. There will always be companions along the way and Christian learns from them all.
We need each other.
When the Lord returns, he will be surrounded by angels and archangels. We will be revealed with him in glory. We who
have been baptized have become members of a very large family. The saints are our spiritual ancestors. The church
is one and undivided. We have been baptized and are to run with energy and perseverance. We are one with the
communion of saints.
At the close of his address, Bishop Kusserow recognized The Rev. Dr. Pfatteicher for his 55 years of ordained ministry.
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Report of the Lutheran Theological Seminary at Gettysburg (LTSG)
Bishop Ralph Jones, Northwestern Pennsylvania Synod, introduced Rev Michael Cooper-White, President, and Rev.
John R. Spangler, Executive Assistant to the President for Communications and Planning. President Cooper-White
thanked the two synods for their financial support and for sending new leaders to the seminary. He noted that curriculum
will undergo revisions providing multiple paths to complete the MDiv process, and will integrate classroom study and
fieldwork. He shared that LTSG has received a grant that will enable them to explore the conversation of science
and faith. The seminary is collaborating with the Washington Theological Consortium and LTSP to make theological
education more accessible. He shared that Dr. Stjerna has accepted a new call at Pacific Seminary and LTSG will be
receiving a new professor into that position. President Cooper-White noted that enrollment continues to decline and
emphasized the importance of raising up new leaders in our congregations.
Presentation of Seminarians and Ordinands
Bishop Kusserow invited Assistant to the Bishop Ed Sheehan to present the Seminarians and Ordinands from the
Southwestern Pennsylvania Synod. Pastor Sheehan introduced the following, although not all were able to be present
because of their education and intern schedules.
Seminarians
Jonathan Adams – member of Salem Lutheran, Delmont. Student at Gettysburg Seminary, currently on
internship at Christ Lutheran, LaVale, MD.
Teresa Armor – member of Zion, Penn Hills. Student at Pittsburgh Theological Seminary. Will be
attending the Diaconal Ministry Formation Event at Gettysburg Seminary this summer.
Eric Damon – member of Bethel Lutheran, Stahlstown. Completing his first year studies in the Distributive
Learning Program at Luther Seminary, Minneapolis.
Susan Devine –member of Trinity Lutheran, Sheraden, Pittsburgh. Approved for Entrance, will begin
coursework in the Distributive Learning Program at Luther Seminary, Minneapolis, this fall.
Steven Gallego – member of East Liberty Lutheran. Approved for Entrance, will begin coursework at
Trinity Seminary, Columbus, Ohio, this fall.
Sherry Hazuda –member of Holy Trinity, Beechview, Pittsburgh. Approved for Entrance, attending
Gettysburg Seminary in fall, 2015.
Joseph Klinger – member of Trinity Lutheran, Butler. Student at Philadelphia Seminary. Completing his
second year.
Ellen Lundie – member of St. John’s Lutheran, North Versailles. Student at Gettysburg Seminary.
Currently on internship at St. Paul Lutheran, Washington, DC.
Elizabeth Smaligo – member of Harrold Zion Lutheran, Greensburg. Diaconal Ministry student at
Gettysburg Seminary, completing her second year.
Angela Smith – member of Oak Grove Lutheran, Zelienople. Student in the Distributive Learning
Program at Luther Seminary, Minneapolis. Will begin a 2-year internship at Grace Lutheran, Rochester
this fall.
Those in process to be received on the Roster of Ordained Ministers
Timothy Dawes –member of House of Prayer, Aliquippa. Approved for Admission to the Roster of
Ordained Ministers of a Person Ordained in Another Christian Tradition. Currently in the Assignment
Process.
Chris Rotella –Diaconal Minister at Abiding Ministries, Pittsburgh. In process to be admitted to the
Roster of Ordained Ministers.
Those to be Ordained
Beth Hawk – member of the Lower Susquehanna Synod, graduate of Gettysburg Seminary. Called to
Crooked Creek Cooperative Lutheran Ministries, Armstrong County.
Bishop Kusserow invited Bishop Jones to present the ordinands for the Northwestern Pennsylvania Synod. Bishop
Jones introduced Matthew Eric Dennison and Randall Wayne Frenz, both of whom will be ordained during Friday
evening’s worship service.
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Recognition of Pastors Observing Special Anniversaries
Bishop Kusserow recognized the following pastors who are celebrating the 25th anniversary of their ordination this year.
The bishop offered a prayer of thanksgiving for these pastors.
+ Annette Woodman-Howe
+ Gordon Hills
+ Margarethe Galbraith-Cordes
+ Roger Fischer
+ William Henry, Jr.
The pastors present were presented with a certificate of appreciation signed by Presiding Bishop Eaton and Bishop
Kusserow.
Bishop Kusserow and Bishop Jones then recognized the pastors from the two synods celebrating the 50th anniversary
of their ordination. A prayer of thanksgiving was offered.
Philip Ramstad
Emery E. Okerlund
Vaughn Taylor
Frederick G. Keller
John Yedlicka
John D. Mumford II
Charles Hartbauer
Kenneth Ofslager
Victor Peischl
Southwestern PA Synod
Northwestern PA Synod
The pastors present were given an opportunity to share brief comments. Each was presented with a certificate of
appreciation.
Bishop Kusserow then recognized pastors celebrating the 55th anniversary of their ordination but who were not able to
be present: Louis Nagy and Richard H. Flock.
The assemblies recessed for lunch at 12:35 p.m.
Forums for Group A and Lunch for Group B took place from 12:30 to 1:15 p.m.; Forums for Group B and Lunch for Group
A took place from 1:15 to 2:00 p.m.
FOURTH PLENARY SESSION
Friday Afternoon, June 12
Bishop Kusserow reconvened the assembly at 2:17 p.m. for the Fourth Plenary Session.
Opening Devotions
Assembly Chaplain Christopher Suehr led the assembly in devotions and prayer.
Bishop Kusserow invited Pastor Robert Schaefer, chair of the Committee on Registration and Attendance, to give the
Lay Voting Members Total
Lay Rostered Voting Members
Lay Voting Members under 21
Visitors
Youth Convo (includes voters under 21)
203
9
194
320
30
15
350
Bishop Kusserow invited Pastor Terri Landers, chair of the Committee on Minutes, to present a report of the committee.
Pastor Landers moved that the minutes of the Third Session be approved.
The motion was carried.
Report of the Committee on Elections
Bishop Kusserow called upon Pastor Paul Gruesu, chair of the Committee on Elections, for a report on the Second
Ballot, Synod Council and Voting Members to the Churchwide Assembly. Pastor Gruesu reported the following.
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Synod Council
Conference 4 Representative
Term Expires 2019
Votes received
Betty Albright
Linda Reed
1
248
0
248
125
129
119
Bishop Kusserow declared Betty Albright elected to the Synod Council.
Voting Members to the 2016 ELCA
Churchwide Assembly, Panel 1, Clergy
Votes received
Edward F. Sheehan
Brian B. Chaffee
Natalie L. G. Hall
2
259
0
259
130
177
144
101
88
Bishop Kusserow declared Edward F. Sheehan and Margarethe Galbraith-Cordes elected as Voting Members to the
2016 ELCA Churchwide Assembly.
Voting Member to the 2016 ELCA
Churchwide Assembly, Panel 2 (Layman of
Color or Primary Language Other than English)
1
249
0
249
125
Votes received
Wilmus Roger Randolph III
126
Steven Gallego
123
Bishop Kusserow declared Wilmus Roger Randolph III elected as a Voting Member to the 2016 ELCA Churchwide
Assembly.
Voting Members to the 2016 ELCA
Churchwide Assembly, Panel 2, Clergy
Votes received
William A. Schaefer
Christina A. Ingold
William B. Diehm
Scott A. Bryte
Christopher Suehr
Heather S. Lubold
3
257
0
257
129
141
142
113
117
124
113
Bishop Kusserow declared Christina A. Ingold and William A. Schaefer elected as Voting Members to the 2016 ELCA
Churchwide Assembly. Christopher Suehr and Scott A. Bryte will advance to the next ballot.
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Bishop Kusserow invited Pastor Natalie L. Hall, chair of the Committee on Reference and Counsel to give the report
of the committee. Pastor Hall presented Recommendation 11, coming as a new motion since the previous motion was
referred to the Committee on Reference and Counsel. The recommendation was projected on the screen and read.
That the Benefits section of the Minimum Compensation Guidelines for Pastors, Diaconal Ministers,
Deaconesses, and Associates in Ministry be amended as follows:
BENEFITS
Congregations are expected to enroll their rostered leaders and their families in the ELCA Pension, Health and
Dental, Disability and Survivor Plans. Calculations of contributions to pension, health and dental, disability and
survivor plans are based upon “Defined Compensation.” To determine “Defined Compensation,” add together:
cash salary, Social Security allowance, and housing allowance.
To maintain the current level of health benefits for our rostered leaders, their families, and lay church workers,
we recommend that the congregations of the Southwestern Pennsylvania Synod offer to provide the Gold+
ELCA health plan option in 2016 for their rostered leaders and lay church workers. In some cases Silver+
and Bronze+ plans (with Health Savings Account contributions) may be more beneficial for pastors, rostered
leaders and their families. Please be in conversation about these options and consult a Portico Representative
for assistance in weighing options.
Pension
available in the fall. Since the contribution rates vary for health and dental according to geographical location
and age, you should contact Portico Benefit Services directly for rate information.
Pastor Nathaneil Christman, Oak Grove Lutheran Church, Zelienople, moved to amend the paragraph titled “Portico
Health Plan – 2016” by adding “Platinum” so that the sentence reads “In some cases Platinum, Silver+ or Bronze+ plans
…”. The motion was seconded by Pastor Larry Mort, St. Andrew, Coraopolis.
The motion to amend carried.
The assembly voted on the main motion as amended.
The motion carried; and Recommendation 11 was adopted.
Pastor Hall then reported that the Committee on Reference and Counsel granted permission for Glade Run Lutheran
Services to provide a progress report on their Capital Campaign.
Ms. Sheila Talarico, Executive Director, Glade Run Foundation, expressed appreciation for the support received
from pastors and congregations. Glade Run has been blessed to receive monetary gifts, in-kind gifts and the gift of
volunteerism and they are very grateful. It is through these gifts that the agency hopes to serve more who are in need.
The planned Jeremiah Village has been designed to be a neighborhood for anyone, with some apartments designed
to meet specific needs. She shared that Glade Run has received approval from the borough to break ground. The
community center which is expected to be under cover by winter this year will also house a chapel. Construction of the
sensory park will begin this summer and is scheduled to be finished by fall. Glade Run is looking to congregations to
help build the chapel. Given wonderful leadership and generous support, they are off to a great start. Ms. Talarico noted
that additional information is available at the Glade Run table in the display area.
Bishop Kusserow called upon Secretary Christensen to continue with the Report of the Synod Council. Secretary
Christensen moved Synod Council Recommendation 10.
That the following “Compensation Guidelines for Interim Ministry” be adopted for 2016 (no change from 2015):
Supply Worship Leaders
$125 for one worship service
$160 for two worship services
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$55 for an additional service not on Sunday morning
Plus reimbursement for mileage according to the current IRS allowance
Local Interim Pastors (up to 20 hours per month)
$500 per month
Transitional or Long-Term Interim Pastors (up to 20 hours a week)
$2,000 per month (with Social Security Allowance adjusted)
Vote was by voice.
Report of the Committee on Congregational Life
Bishop Kusserow noted that at the 2015 Synod Assembly a Resolution Calling for Synodical and Congregational
Conversation about Ministering to Same-Gender Couples and Families was adopted. The resolution directed that the
Synod Council, acting through an appropriate committee or task force, “initiate a structured process which supports
and encourages discussion and sharing of resources and information that would be most helpful for those wishing to
minister to and support lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender individuals and couples and their families."The bishop
noted that the Synod Council directed this request to the Committee on Congregational Life. He then called upon Pastor
James Dollhopf, chair of the Committee on Congregational Life, for an update.
Pastor Dollhopf reviewed the work of the committee. He pointed to a brochure of resources which the committee
developed, and which was distributed to the assembly. The committee has scheduled two workshops in November, one
for clergy and one for laypersons.
Report of the Committee on History and Archives
Bishop Kusserow invited Pastor Ralph Kusserow, a member of the Committee on Archives and History, for an update
of that committee’s work. Pastor Kusserow noted that the last historical update on the congregations of our synod was
done in 2005. The committee has been working on updating congregational histories. Questionnaires have been sent to
all pastors. He encouraged pastors and congregations to identify someone in their congregation to complete and return
the questionnaire so that the record of each congregation can be complete.
Singing of a Hymn
The assembly joined in singing the hymn “My Life Goes on in Endless Song."
Bishop Kusserow called for the next Synod Council Recommendation to be considered. Secretary Christensen moved
Synod Council Recommendation 4:
That the proposed Synod Budget for 2016 with a 48% level of support to the ELCA be considered and adopted.
Pastor Jill McGregor, Christ, Baden and Our Savior’s, Ambridge, moved that $20,000 allocated to the Lutheran
Theological Seminary at Gettysburg be moved to Lutherlyn. Bishop Kusserow ruled the motion out of order because
of the action taken earlier by the assembly which required that any proposed changes to the budget be directed to the
Committee on Reference and Counsel in advance of voting on the budget.
Pastor Patrice Wierick, Center Township Lutheran Parish, expressed concern about increasing the amount to Churchwide
at this time when we still have a deficit budget.
Pastor Frank Podolinski, chair of the Budget and Finance Committee, spoke about expanded giving outside of ourselves
so that we might have the joy of good stewardship.
Pastor Roger Steiner, Penn-Zion’s, Harrison City, expressed concern about the deficit. He also questioned the need for
an ELCA planned giver.
Kelly Spanninger, St. Andrew, Shadyside, suggested that we “think outside of the box” to address the deficit.
Bishop Kusserow noted that there has been a pattern of decline in regular Mission Support giving and that has impacted
the budget. He also noted that while the proposed budget is a deficit budget, the synod’s assets have increased and
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off-budget resources are being organized for our ministries.
Pastor Pat Bonds, The Bridge, asked about selling the synod’s property on Perry Highway.
Pastor George Mendis, chair of the Property Committee, noted that while the building on Perry Highway may be worth
some money, if it were sold, the synod would have to pay rent. He encouraged increased giving as opposed to selling
property; and made reference to the legacy of Pastor Howard Ravenstahl’s annual encouragement of tithing.
Barbara Love, Zion, Harmony, encouraged congregations – as we are the church – to budget Mission Support giving in
the manner we ask our members to contribute to congregations.
Linda Theophilus, Emmanuel, Eastmont, asked about the costs of Synod Assembly. Pastor Larry Mort, chair of the
Synod Assembly Planning Committee, responded to the question from Pastor Theophilus. He noted that some venues
have been more expensive and that the synod may not be returning to those venues because of the cost.
Pastor Jill McGregor, Christ, Baden and Our Savior’s, Ambridge, stated that she will vote against this budget as it is too
hard to explain to the members of her congregations that the church loses money on their dollars. While she will vote
no, she acknowledged the work of the Budget and Finance Committee.
Pastor Joseph Boomhower, Holy Trinity, Chicora, asked whether the funds from closed congregations that are in the
Legacy Fund were designated for particular mission projects. Bishop Kusserow responded that the funds in the Legacy
Fund are not restricted.
Lewis Steel, First Lutheran, Pittsburgh, suggested the assembly think of this as a plan for ministry rather than a budget.
The Lord has blessed us beyond belief and there is no reason to doubt him now.
The question was called by Pastor Kirk W. Bish, Retired. The motion was seconded by Barbara Love, Zion, Harmony.
The motion carried.
Voting on Recommendation 4 was by voice.
Pastor Kari Smail, St. John’s of Highland, Pittsburgh, moved that in the event the Southwestern Pennsylvania Synod
receives a surplus in Mission Support revenue in fiscal year 2016 beyond the amount budgeted, that 50% of such
surplus be shared with the ELCA. The motion was seconded by Pastor Kirk W. Bish, Retired. Pastor Smail applauded
the Budget and Finance Committee for taking a step in the right direction and making an attempt to move us back to
where we were in terms of the synod’s Mission Support giving to Churchwide. We are people of hope and faith.
The motion carried.
Bishop Kusserow called upon Pastor Paul Gruesu, chair of the Committee on Elections. Pastor Gruesu reported on the
Third Ballot, Voting Members to Churchwide Assembly.
Votes received
Christopher Suehr
Scott A. Bryte
1
232
0
232
117
98
134
Bishop Kusserow declared Scott A. Bryte elected as a Voting Member to the 2016 Churchwide Assembly.
Pastor Gruesu then reported the results of the First Ballot, Committee on Discipline, Agencies and Institutions.
Committee on Discipline, Clergy
Terms Expire 2021
2
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Votes received
Kimberly Miller van Driel
Paul L. Lubold
Jennifer R. P. McCurry
Daniel P. Smail
233
0
233
117
109
116
123
108
Bishop Kusserow declared Jennifer R. P. McCurry elected to the Committee on Discipline. Paul Lubold and Kimberly
Miller van Driel will advance to the next ballot.
Committee on Discipline, Layperson
Terms Expire 2021
Votes received
Sandra A. Shaw
Judith A. Rogers
Loran K. Bohman
Ray Ojerholm
2
227
0
227
114
103
125
101
112
Bishop Kusserow declared Judith A. Rogers elected to the Committee on Discipline. Ray Ojerholm and Sandra A. Shaw
will advance to the next ballot.
Layperson or Clergy
Terms Expire 2018 and 2016
Votes received
Andre Francois
Susan Lanna
Anthony J. Schneck
Kathleen B. Gaberson
James A. Nealon
Carrie Nurnberger-Lane
Rachelle Fritz
4
239
13
226
114
125
107
159
111
113
169
104
Bishop Kusserow declared Carrie Nurnberger-Lane, Anthony J. Schneck and Andre Francois elected to the Lutherlyn
Board of Directors for three-year terms. James A. Nealon and Kathleen B. Gaberson will advance to the second ballot
for a one-year term.
Lutheran SeniorLife Board of Directors
Clergy, Term Expires 2018
Votes received
Peggy Suhr-Barkley
Ron Brown
1
238
0
238
120
145
93
Bishop Kusserow declared Peggy Suhr-Barkley elected to the Lutheran SeniorLife Board of Directors.
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Lutheran SeniorLife Board of Directors
Layperson, Term Expires 2018
Votes received
R. Brandon James
1
241
0
241
121
104
137
Bishop Kusserow declared Jeannette Christensen elected to the Lutheran SeniorLife Board of Directors.
Lutheran Service Society of Western PA
Board of Directors, Layperson or Clergy
Votes received
Clifton J. Suehr
Allyn K. Itterly
Wayne E. Franzen
Robert F. Zimmerman
2
251
0
251
126
134
120
113
108
Bishop Kusserow declared Clifton J. Suehr elected to the Lutheran Service Society Board of Directors for a three-year
term. Allyn K. Itterly and Wayne E. Franzen will advance to the next ballot for a one year term.
Clergy or Layperson
Votes received
Molly O’Brien
Frank L. Zeman
Alex Covi
Karen Shaffer
Brenda Neundorf
3
241
2
239
120
149
124
156
126
125
Bishop Kusserow declared Alex Covi and Molly O’Brien elected to the Camp Agape Board of Directors for three-year
terms; and declared Karen Shaffer elected for a one-year term.
Committee on Elections
Bishop Kusserow invited Pastor Paul Gruesu, chair of the Committee on Elections, to present the Second Ballot,
Committee on Discipline, Agencies and Institutions. The Assembly Chaplain offered prayer. Ballots were cast using the
electronic voting machines.
Bishop Kusserow recessed the Fourth Plenary Session at 4:15 p.m.
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LITURGY OF ORDINATION
for
Matthew E. Dennison
Randall W. Frenz
Beth Ann Reese Hawk
Friday, June 12, 2015; 7:30 p.m.
William A. Passavant Memorial Center
Thiel College, Greenville, Pennsylvania
Liturgy of Ordination
Evangelical Lutheran Worship, Setting Four
THE PRELUDE
Hymn Improvisations on ‘St. Denio’
THE ENTRANCE HYMN
I Bind Unto Myself Today
KYRIE
THE HYMN OF PRAISE
THE FIRST LESSON
THE PSALMODY
Psalm 133 Sung by the Choir
THE SECOND READING
THE VERSE
THE HOLY GOSPEL
THE SERMON
THE HYMN OF THE DAY
In Christ Called to Baptize
W. Held
ELW 450
Jeremiah 23:1-6
Anglican Chant / Richard Farrant
Ephesians 4:1-7, 11-16
C. Pock
St. John 13:12-17, 20
ELW 575
The Rite of Ordination
THE PRESENTATION
THE ADDRESS AND QUESTIONS
THE PRAYERS OF INTERCESSION
THE HYMN OF INVOCATION
Creator Spirit, Heavenly Dove
THE THANKSGIVING
PRESENTATION OF STOLE
THE CHARGE
THE BLESSING
THE ACCLAMATION
THE PEACE
THE OFFERING
The Offering has been designated to The Campaign for the ELCA,
The Lutheran Theological Seminary at Gettysburg, and Thiel College
THE DIALOGUE
THE PROPER PREFACE
SANCTUS
THE LORD’S PRAYER
THE FRACTION
AGNUS DEI
HYMN
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The Son of God, Our Christ
ANTHEM
Now Thank We All Our God
HYMN
By Your Hand You Feed Your People
Draw Us In the Spirit’s Tether
THE POST-COMMUNION BLESSING
THE SOLEMN BLESSING
THE HYMN TO CLOSE
God of Tempest, God of Whirlwind
THE DISMISSAL
THE POSTLUDE
Finale on ‘Cwm Rhonda’
Presiding and Preaching
Synodical Bishops
Assisting Minister
Assistant Master of Ceremonies
Ordinands
Sponsors
Lectors
Sacristans
Acolytes
Music
ELW 584
Johann Sebastian Bach
ELW 469
ELW 470
ELW 400
Paul Manz
Presiding Bishop
The Reverend Ralph Jones, Bishop
Northwestern Pennsylvania Synod, ELCA
The Reverend Kurt Kusserow, Bishop
Southwestern Pennsylvania Synod, ELCA
Chris Curran
Grace Lutheran Church, Franklin
The Reverend William B. Henry, Jr.
St. Peter’s Lutheran Church, Evans City
The Reverend Erin E. Evans
Peace Lutheran Church, Greenock
Matthew E. Dennison
Randall W. Frenz
Beth Ann Reese Hawk
The Reverend John D. Coleman
Abiding Hope Lutheran Church, Erie
The Reverend James M. Seeley
Retired
The Reverend Timothy A. Mentzer
Trinity Lutheran Church, Lancaster
Stephanie Dennison
St. Peter’s Lutheran Church, Northeast
Andrew Sabol
St. Paul’s Lutheran Church, Canonsburg
Ellie Pancoe
Barbara Ravenstahl
Holly Schmitt
Members of the Youth Convocation
The Assembly Choir
Maidene Hackett, Organist
Trinity Lutheran Church, Greenville
Cynthia A. Pock, AAGO, Music Director
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FIFTH PLENARY SESSION
Saturday morning, June 14
Bishop Kusserow reconvened the assembly at 8:41 a.m.
Opening Devotions
Opening devotions were led by Assembly Chaplain Christopher Suehr.
Bishop Kusserow called upon Pastor Robert Schaefer, chair of theCommittee on Registration and Attendance, for a
Lay Voting Members, Total
Lay Rostered Voting Members
Lay Voting Members under 21
Total Voting Members
Visitors
Youth Convo (includes voters under 21)
Total Present at Assembly
121
205
9
15
326
32
17
360
Bishop Kusserow called upon Pastor Terri Landers, chair of the Committee on Minutes, for a report of the committee.
Pastor Landers moved that the minutes of the Fourth Session be approved as presented.
Motion carried.
Bishop Kusserow called upon Pastor Paul Gruesu, chair of the Committee on Elections, for a report of the Second Ballot
– Committee on Discipline, Agencies and Institutions. Pastor Gruesu reported the following:
Committee on Discipline, Clergy
Term Expires 2021
Votes received
Paul L. Lubold
Kimberly Miller van Driel
1
252
0
252
127
113
139
Bishop Kusserow declared Kimberly Miller van Driel elected to the Committee on Discipline.
Committee on Discipline, Layperson
Term Expires 2021
Votes received
Ray Ojerholm
Sandra A. Shaw
1
245
0
245
123
120
125
Bishop Kusserow declared Sandra A. Shaw elected to the Committee on Discipline.
Layperson or Clergy, Term Expires 2016
1
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Votes received
James A. Nealon
Kathleen B. Gaberson
247
0
247
124
132
115
Bishop Kusserow declared James A. Nealon elected to the Lutherlyn Board of Directors for a one-year term.
Lutheran Service Society Board of Directors
Layperson or Clergy, Term Expires 2016
Votes received
Allyn K. Itterly
Wayne E. Franzen
1
247
0
247
124
134
110
Bishop Kusserow declared Allyn K. Itterly elected to the Lutheran Service Society Board of Directors.
Bishop Kusserow expressed appreciation to Ms. Jean Knight of Quizdom for her assistance with the voting machines.
Report from LAMPa
Bishop Kusserow called upon Pastor Paul Lubold to provide an update on a Memorial from the 2014 Synod Assembly.
Pastor Lubold noted that the action taken by the assembly in 2014 was to be supportive of anti-discrimination legislation.
A letter from Bishop Kusserow was delivered to Harrisburg. However, the legislation never made it to the floor for a vote.
There is currently another piece of legislation that is expected to be reintroduced soon.
500th Anniversary of the Reformation
Bishop Kusserow shared that in anticipation of the 500th Anniversary of the Reformation, he asked Bishop Emeritus
Donald McCoid to serve as the Lutheran co-chair of a joint planning committee together with Very Reverend Kris D.
Stubna as the Catholic co-chair. Bishop Emeritus McCoid reported that a Study Guide, “From Conflict to Communion” was
written by the Planning Committee of the Diocese of Pittsburgh and the Diocese of Greensburg, the Byzantine Catholic
Archeparchy of Pittsburgh and the Southwestern Pennsylvania Synod, ELCA. Committee members representing our
synod were Bishop Emeritus Donald J. McCoid, co-chair, Reverend Dr. Donald B. Green, Ms. Nancy Galbraith and
Reverend Kimberly M. Rapczak.
Bishop McCoid noted that the Study Guide is being used as a model by the Conference of Bishops, the Lutheran
World Federation and the Vatican. The Study Guide is available on the ELCA website as well as on Lutheran World
Federation website. He reminded that the task of every Christian is to build the unity of the Church. He noted that there
was a joint meeting of local Catholics and ELCA Lutherans in April; a similar session may be planned to include other
denominations. Bishop McCoid noted that liturgical materials are also being prepared and some time will be dedicated
for service projects in Southwestern Pennsylvania.
God’s Work, Our Hands
A video, God’s Work, Our Hands, was shown.
Mission Moment
Bishop Kusserow called upon Deacon Chris Rotella, Mission Developer for Abiding Ministries. Deacon Rotella shared
that earlier this morning she saw a man sleeping in a driveway. She happened to have tents in her car and offered him
one. Then she asked him to come along with her to breakfast where they sat at the table with the Youth Convo group.
They talked about the cross and shared communion from last night’s Ordination Service.
Bishop Kusserow announced the assembly would take a five-minute break and then resume the Plenary Session.
ELCA Churchwide Representative – Questions and Answers
Vice President James introduced Presiding Bishop Elizabeth Eaton to respond to written questions that had been
submitted. A brief summary highlighting some of the points made in Bishop Eaton’s responses is included below. The
summaries provided are not intended to reflect the full conversation.
Q. As the [relatively] new leader of the ELCA, what plans do you have to address and support the large number of small,
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struggling congregations? What new and innovative resources will be available?
A. The landscape is changing. We need to take notes from our companion synods and do more work to equip the laity
in doing ministry. That will require a culture change – who is willing to change? Will it matter whether or not it’s the “real
pastor” who comes to visit? We are seeing more cooperative ministries and that requires cooperation. You are a real
congregation if you don’t have a full-time pastor. Most of the churches that St. Paul started are no longer in existence.
We always need to ask why we are open. Is there mission happening? Or is this just a place for you to come on Sunday
morning? We should not just be a ministry to Lutherans and Central and Northern Europeans. We need to invite people
into the wonderful relationship with Jesus – but we are not good at saying the name Jesus. We can’t be afraid to try
and fail.
Q. Is there a reason that clergy on leave from call for non-disciplinary reasons, serving churches as supply, interim, or
under contract are removed from the roster if they cannot find a call?
A. Clergy must apply for On Leave From Call status with the Synod Council and are eligible for up to three years on an
annual renewable basis. If the leave is for graduate studies, the time allowed is six years. Each situation can be unique
and there may be unique circumstances behind this question.
Q. Please share a bit about the current status of the Font and Table discussion and the response from congregations
up to this point.
A. There is survey that is looking at current practices and then there will be reflection on how the responses relate to
the use and means of grace document. Some think the ELCA has already made a decision, but it is still in the process.
Communion is not about hospitality; it is about strengthening the baptized. Use of the Means of Grace allows for
pastoral discretion but baptism is still the rite of initiation. We will want a time for review of and conversation about our
sacramental practices.
Q. In what ways as individuals and congregations can we reclaim stewardship as a spiritual discipline from the prominent
cultural model of charitable giving?
A. She talks about this subject in the July issue of “The Lutheran”. Some synods give up to 56 percent while others
as low as 30 percent. The trend in this country is specialized gifts. Mission support is active discipleship. How can
we encourage generosity? Jesus talks more about money than anything else. How many of you have stewardship
emphasis annually? It takes leadership – pastors and lay leaders. This is how we are church together. We are woefully
behind in stewardship living in this church. We need to reclaim stewardship as a spiritual model.
Q. Would you please talk about the place of a lay school of theology or a “street seminary” for the life of the church now
and into our immediate future together?
A. We need lay schools of theology and we need to help them be more robust. They had one in Ohio and it became
the same 12 people taking the same courses over and over. There is value but they have to be strengthened. There
is a good model in the southwest where persons are being trained for Latino ministry. Check the ELCA website for a
report from the Theological Education Advisory Council (TEAC), authorized by the ELCA Church Council to address in
a holistic way issues on theological education, leadership development, candidacy, call and rostered leaders.
Q. In one of your speeches at the 2013 Churchwide Assembly, before your election, you spoke about our church being
“broken." Are we any less so now? How are we moving towards healing?
A. Instead of turning to each other, we turned against each other and didn’t understand the trauma others were feeling.
A staff member at Churchwide is working on family systems theory; eleven synods have pilot projects for congregational
health.
Q. What is the one thing you would tell young people as they look forward to their life?
A. Trust that we live in the love of Christ. Remember that Jesus said you did not choose me, I chose you. Trust in God’s
faithfulness. And, do your homework!
Report of Youth Convocation
Bishop Kusserow called upon Pastor Peter Asplin to give the report of the Youth Convo as Pastor Ingold was not able
to be present. Pastor Asplin thanked the assembly for welcoming young people. He thanked the adult leaders: Pastor
Christina Ingold, Virginia Kreisel, Andrew Sabol, Pastor Steven Broome, Pastor Scott Bryte. He noted that the youth
worked hard, played hard, and learned a lot. The youth presented their report following the format of the Dr. Suess book,
“Will You Please Go Now."
Presentation of the Bible Bowl Trophy
Bishop Kusserow called upon Pastor Sarah Lee-Faulkner, Assistant to the Bishop, to present the Bible Bowl Trophy.
Pastor Lee-Faulkner noted that the books of the Bible studied this year were Mark and Philemon. She presented the
Bible Bowl Trophy to the team from Berkeley Hills Lutheran Church. A short skit was presented about the Bible Bowl
books for next year, Esther, Ruth and Daniel. Super Bible Bowl has been scheduled for April 17, 2016. A short video of
the ELCA Youth Gathering was also shown.
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Women of the ELCA
Bishop Kusserow introduced Jennifer Armstrong-Schaefer, Synodical Unit President, Women of the ELCA. Ms.
Armstrong-Schaefer shared that the Women of the ELCA do more than prepare funeral dinners and make quilts and
prayer shawls. They are involved in a variety of service activities from letter writing campaigns to helping provide solar
power to third world countries. She is involved because of the Bible Study and ministry, the fellowship with other women
as they share their faith and journey through life; and for her daughter and girls around the world as they work to raise
up healthy girls and make the world a safer place for women.
Lutheran Church Extension Society
A short video highlighting the mission of the Lutheran Church Extension Society featuring Mr. Bill Angel, Pastor Robert
Gago and Mr. Bob Cairns was shown. The mission of the Lutheran Church Extension Society is to provide interest free
loans to member congregations in the Southwestern Pennsylvania Synod for the purpose of new construction, energy
conservation, fire and safety products and making buildings handicapped accessible.
Sabbatical Prayer for Bishop Kusserow
Assistants to the Bishop Sarah Lee-Faulkner and Ed Sheehan shared Seven Ways to Pray for Bishop Kusserow on His
Sabbatical.
To experience a genuine sabbatical rest - physical, emotional, intellectual, vocational, and spiritual
renewal.
Leviticus 25:4: But in the seventh year the land is to have a year of Sabbath rest, a Sabbath to the
LORD.
To reflect personally on what God has done, is doing, and wants to do in and through him.
Philippians 2:13: For it is God who works in you to will and to act in order to fulfill his good purpose.
To gain a new perspective on what the Lord is doing in the Church.
John 4:35: I tell you, open your eyes and look at the fields! They are ripe for harvest.
To capture a fresh vision and passion of what God has planned for the Southwestern Pennsylvania
Synod.
Acts 11:5: I was in the city of Joppa praying, and in a trance I saw a vision.
To learn about pre-Nicea theology.
2 Timothy 1:13: Hold to the standard of sound teaching that you have heard from me, in the faith and
love that are in Christ Jesus.
To build a wall of stones.
1 Peter 2.5: like living stones, let yourselves be built into a spiritual house, to be a holy priesthood, to
offer spiritual sacrifices acceptable to God through Jesus Christ.
To return with a clear sense of mission and renewed energy to accomplish it.
Matthew 28:19: Therefore go and make disciples of all nations . . .
For the Southwestern Pennsylvania Synod: May we continue to carry out faithfully with joy and hope
the ministry to which we are called – “Belonging to Each Other in Christ Jesus, we steward the Gospel
and care for our neighbors.”
For Bishop Kusserow: May the Word of God encourage you. May the strength of God equip you. May
the Spirit of God empower you. May the wisdom of God instruct you. May the hand of God direct you.
May the shield of God defend you and bring you back renewed for God’s work.
Bishop Kusserow thanked his assistants and the assembly for their prayers.
Report of the Committee on Resolutions
Bishop Kusserow invited the Committee on Resolutions to give their report. The Committee members, Pastor Scott
Bryte, chair, Pastor Scott Kuechenmeister Hall and Pastor Kimberly van Driel, with assistance from Pastor Paul Lubold
and Pastor Robert Schaefer, and with deep apologies to Ken Burns, moved the following report accompanied by music
and photographs.
The Greenville Address
One score and seven years ago
the Holy Spirit brought forth on this continent,
a new denomination, with sixty-five synods,
and dedicated to the proposition
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that Jesus Christ has no equal.
Now two of these synods are engaged in a joint Synod Assembly
Testing whether that church,
or any church so organized and so dedicated,
can long endure.
We are met on a great college of that church.
We come now to dedicate
a portion of that assembly to giving thanks
to those who here gave their time
that that church might serve Christ.
It is altogether fitting and proper
that we should do this.
But, in a larger sense,
we cannot dedicate,
we cannot appreciate,
We cannot adulate
this time.
The brave souls, women and men,
who slept in these Spartan dormitories
have already honored it,
far beyond our poor power to exalt or extol.
The world has never noted,
nor shall we long remember
what we did here,
but we can never forget
what Christ did for us here.
So it is for us, the committee
to be here dedicated to the small task
remaining before us,
that among these baptized souls
we make official resolution of thanksgiving
for that cause to which they gave two nights of uncomfortable sleep.
and we here highly resolve
that those who ate in turns
shall not have sweated in vain,
and that this denomination
shall have a new birth of belonging
and that assemblies
of the southwest with the northwest and in the northwest
shall not perish from the earth.
*****
My dearest Esther,
Well, we are here. There have been rumors of merger and rumors of rumors of mergers, and nothing has happened.
We cannot find the source of these rumors, but we are relieved that no agenda, which is alleged to be suspected, has
been forced upon us. But whereas, the Northwestern Pennsylvania Synod has suffered numerous inconveniences,
including foregoing an exclusive claim on townhouses so that a few lucky ones among our number may occupy them,
and whereas, it was with surprise that we learned that they had supplied cookies, and this offer was graciously accepted,
therefore BE IT RESOLVED that we thank them for their sacrifices and more, for our shared ministry, and be it further
resolved that we thank Thiel College, which has hosted us both.
*****
June 11th, 2:00 p.m.
Dear Esther,
Well, my dear, the rumors may be justified after all. It seems that our esteemed keynote speaker, Dr. Phillip Pfatteicher,
has been compromised and has been decorated by the North. But he has enlightened us in our walk with Christ and in
belonging to each other, and for that we thank him.
ps. Please send along my copy of Pilgrim’s Progress; it’s the book on my shelf that ISN’T the Bible.
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*****
June 12, 2:13 p.m.
My dearest son Hubert,
Whereas generations of Suehrs have given themselves for the chaplaincy of this assembly, do be sure to thank them
for their articulate prayers and memorable litany and we should be resolved to wait in eager anticipation for a third
generation of Suehrs to enter into the pastorate and join us in this enterprise.
ps. Please renew my subscription to ancestry.com as I must find out if the Suhrs and Suehrs are related.
*****
Colonel:
Our reconnaissance has shown that there are other units supporting our work. We resolve to thank the prayer retreat
and the youth convo for their supportive prayers and proclamation of the gospel.
*****
My darling Hephizbah,
There are a whole pile of bishops here. It has been exciting. Why Presiding Bishop sat just two seats away from me and
I could not bring myself to speak to her. We have asked Bishop Kusserow about his plans for the summer but so far he
is stonewalling. Please have the quartermaster requisition him some steel-toed boots.
*****
Captain Dunkel:
We on the left flank have been kept in the dark these last 3 days. Our bishop and his assistants, synod office staff, Larry
Mort and the planning committee, the assembly committees, all of the musicians, and all support teams have provided
the light of planning, preparation and presence, and it should be resolved that we offer them our heartfelt gratitude.
Nevertheless, we eagerly await the invention of the incandescent light bulb and would even take a compact fluorescent
to be installed in some permanent arrangement here in Passavant.
*****
Dear Daddy,
I miss you so while you are away. Today my anxiety has been relieved. You have always told me that I am the future
of the church and this bears heavily on my shoulders. But to my great relief I have heard today that Jesus is the future
of the church. Our presiding bishop, Elizabeth Eaton, has proclaimed to us so clearly what it means to trust in Jesus,
and how it is that we are church, and be it therefore resolved that we thank her for her unashamed proclamation of the
theology of the cross and be it therefore further resolved that we continue to live in faith and trust and hope.
ps. Please send my Small Catechism; I simply must learn the language of the church.
*****
The motion carried; the report of the Committee on Resolutions was adopted.
Bishop Kusserow invited Pastor Terri Landers, chairperson of the Committee on Minutes, to present the committee’s
report. Pastor Landers moved that the assembly authorize Bishop Kusserow and Secretary Christensen to approve the
minutes of the Fifth Session.
The motion carried.
Pastor Landers moved that the assembly authorize Secretary Christensen to make editorial changes to the minutes as
necessary.
The motion carried.
Adjournment
Motion and second to adjourn the assembly.
The motion carried.
The assembly adjourned at 10:57 a.m.
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CLOSING LITURGY
Saturday, June 13, 2015; 11:45 a.m.
William A. Passavant Memorial Center
Thiel College
Greenville, Pennsylvania
Closing Liturgy of Holy Communion
Evangelical Lutheran Worship
THE PRELUDE
Partita: Was Gott Tut, das ist whohlgetan
(What God Ordains is Good Indeed)
THE ENTRANCE HYMN
Rise, O Sun of Righteousness
THE READING
THE HOLY GOSPEL
THE SERMON
THE HYMN OF THE DAY
Christ is The King
THE INSTALLATION OF SYNOD COUNCILS
THE PRAYERS OF THE CHURCH
THE PEACE
THE OFFERING
THE DIALOGUE
THE LORD’S PRAYER
THE FRACTION
AGNUS DEI
Lamb of God, Pure and Sinless
HYMN
Blest Be The Tie That Binds
Awake, My Heart With Gladness
THE POST-COMMUNION BLESSING
THE BENEDICTION
THE ORDER FOR THE CLOSING OF A SYNOD ASSEMBLY
THE SENDING HYMN
A Mighty Fortress Is Our God
THE DISMISSAL
THE POSTLUDE
Ein feste Burg ist unser Gott
Johann Pachelbel
ELW 657
1 Corinthians 15: 1-11
St. John 17:20-26
The Reverend Clifton and
The Reverend Christopher Suehr
ELW 662
ELW 357
ELW 656
ELW 378
ELW 504
Michael Praetorius
Presiding Minister
Celebrant
Synodical Bishops
Preachers
Presiding Bishop
The Reverend Julia Fraser
Chaplain, Bethesda Children’s Home
The Reverend Kurt Kusserow
Bishop, Southwestern Pennsylvania Synod, ELCA
The Reverend Ralph Jones
Bishop, Northwestern Pennsylvania Synod, ELCA
The Reverend Clifton Suehr
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Assisting Minister
Acolytes
Lector
Sacristans
Organist
Holy Trinity Lutheran Church, Irwin
The Reverend Christopher Suehr
Hope Lutheran Church, Cranberry
David Olson
St. James Lutheran Church, Fairview
The Reverend Lee Penvose
Holy Trinity, Greenville
Members of Youth Convocation
Diane Santoriello
Zion Lutheran Church, Penn Hills
Ellie Pancoe
Barbara Ravenstahl
Holly Schmitt
Cynthia A. Pock, AAGO
Cantor, First Lutheran Church, Pittsburgh
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BULLETIN OF REPORTS
MINIMUM COMPENSATION GUIDELINES FOR ORDAINED MINISTERS - 2016
FOR USE BY CONGREGATIONS PROVIDING A PARSONAGE
These Guidelines, established by the Southwestern Pennsylvania Synod Assembly,
are provided to assist congregations develop and maintain a financial compensation package
for pastors of our synod that is both fair and competitive.
The policy established by Synod Assembly action in 1997 states:
The Bishop of the Southwestern Pennsylvania Synod is precluded from placing pastors in congregations where
minimum compensation cannot be met. [Minimum compensation shall consist of that year's cash salary, housing,
Social Security allowance, required pension and health benefits, mileage, continuing education allowance, four weeks’
vacation, and two weeks of continuing education time.]
I.
DEFINED COMPENSATION
Cash Salary
The minimum base cash salary for a new pastor (0 years of experience as an ordained pastor) is $34,792. [This
represents a 1.7% increase over the 2015 minimum cash salary.] For pastors with years of experience, $400
for each year of experience should be added to the minimum base cash salary to determine the appropriate
cash salary. An additional amount may be added to reflect factors such as scope of responsibilities and/or
xceptional proficiency. Additional compensation should be considered for the experience and needs of second
career pastors.
Congregations that are able to raise their compensation above synodical minimums should do so realizing that
this synod’s pastoral compensation ranks among the lowest of the synods in the Evangelical Lutheran Church
in America. A congregation where a pastor is currently under call and where the compensation guidelines
have been met may wish to calculate increases based on the congregation’s budget from the previous year.
If this method is chosen, it is appropriate to increase the pastor’s cash salary by a minimum of 1.5%. An
additional amount of at least $400 should then be added for another year of experience in ordained ministry.
II.
Social Security Allowance
The pastor must pay 15.3% Social Security tax on the total of cash salary, Social Security allowance, furnishings
allowance, and 30% (of these same items) for housing. If there is a difference between the auto and professional
allowances and the actual expenses in those areas, Social Security Tax will also be owed on the amount that is
over expenses. Congregations are urged to provide an allowance of at least 50% of the Social Security tax
(as is provided for employees by their employers). [The total of all applicable items may be multiplied by .08284
to determine the congregation’s approximate share of the Social Security tax.]
Parsonage
When the congregation provides a parsonage as part of the compensation package the following factors should
be noted.
• The pastor should receive free use of the parsonage including maintenance and utilities.
Pastors normally pay for their own long distance telephone calls unless otherwise agreed upon.
• For tax purposes, a portion of the cash salary may be designated as a “furnishings allowance”
either in the congregational budget or by a motion at the first council meeting of the year. The
pastor is responsible to document the use of the furnishings allowance to the IRS and to pay
tax on any portion not used.
• In order to calculate the Social Security allowance and the Portico Benefit Services payments,
establish the fair rental value of the parsonage OR calculate 30% of the cash salary plus social
security allowance, plus furnishings allowance.
• A housing equity allowance may be extended as an additional benefit for pastors who live in
parsonages and are not acquiring the financial gains that can come from owning a home.
REIMBURSEMENT OF EXPENSES
Auto Reimbursement
Three options are available:
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1. Reimbursement for miles driven according to the IRS allowance
(The 2016 rate will be posted on the synod website).
2. Furnish a car and all related expenses (gas, maintenance, insurance, etc.).
3. Provide an auto allowance not less than $4,000 annually.
(Pastors receiving an auto allowance should be aware that it is taxable income for which the pastor
must account to the IRS.)
Except in the case of option 3, it is also appropriate for the congregation to reimburse the pastor for tolls,
parking, and other travel-related expenses when such expenses are incurred during call-related travel (not
commuting to/from work).
In the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America, congregations and pastors are expected to contribute annually
to a continuing education fund or to maintain an annual budget line from which the pastor draws for continuing
education expenses. The establishment of a fund enables money to be carried between years so that the pastor
will be able to participate in a broader scope of continuing education events. Congregations are to contribute
$650; pastors are to contribute $300. Registration fees, materials, lodging, meals and travel expenses are
included in continuing education expenses. Two full weeks of continuing education per year is expected. We
especially encourage congregations to support the pastor’s attendance at the theological convocation held
each October.
First Call Theological Education (FCTE)
All persons newly ordained in the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America are expected to participate in FCTE
for three years. Congregations served by a pastor in FCTE are sent an invoice by Region 8 for the congregation’s
share of financial support for the annual retreat and colleague groups. The synod contributes an equal amount
for each person. In 2014 the cost was $200 per year. It is intended that the FCTE fee be taken from the pastor’s
Continuing Education fund of $550, leaving the remaining $350 for participation in other educational activities.
Publications and Media Resources
It is recommended that the congregation pay for books, journals, software, etc. directly or as a direct expense
reimbursement so that this will not be taxable income for the pastor. An annual allowance of at least $200 is
recommended.
Professional Expenses
Congregations should also take into account other expenses that the pastor may incur related to church
business. These expenses may include for example, the cost of vestments, clerical attire, or attendance at
meetings. An annual budget of $400 from which such items can be reimbursed is recommended. It is also the
responsibility of the congregation to provide the financial support necessary for the pastor to attend the Synod
Assembly.
Technology
In our current environment, computers, and other technological items are often considered essential to
ministry. Congregations are encouraged to discuss the needs of the particular context. Congregations should
assume the costs of a computer, cell phone service, or other needed items in accordance with IRS guidelines.
Tax policy concerning technology reimbursements changes rapidly; please consult a tax professional to ensure
compliance with the law.
III.
BENEFITS
Dental, Disability and Survivor Plans.
ELCA health plan option in 2016 for their rostered leaders and lay church workers. In some cases Platinum,
Silver+ or Bronze+ plans (with Health Savings Account contributions) may be more beneficial for rostered
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Pension
Phone: 800-352-2876; E-mail: [email protected] Website: https://porticobenefits.org
IV.CONDITIONS
Vacation: A minimum of four weeks, including four Sundays, is expected.
Continuing Education: Two full weeks per year is expected. However, an agreement to allow these two weeks
to be carried over in a three-year period allows the pastor the opportunity for a more extended study leave.
Leave at Birth, Adoption or Foster Care, Sick Leave, Bereavement, and Family Illness:
Please refer to the “Family Leave Policy of the Southwestern Pennsylvania Synod”. For a copy of the “Family
Leave Policy” call the Synod office at 412-367-8222 or download directly from the “Resources” section of the
Synod’s website http://www.swpasynod.org
Sabbatical Leave: Please refer to the “Sabbatical Leave Policy for Ordained Ministers and Associates in
Ministry”. For a copy of the “Sabbatical Leave Policy” call the Synod office at 412-367-8222 or download
directly from the “Resources” section of the Synod’s website http://www.swpasynod.org
Married ELCA Rostered Couples: When a married couple both receive separate calls within the synod,
the synodical bishop will assist congregations in establishing equitable considerations to the married couple.
Congregations should note, however, that 1) Portico Benefit Services establishes the annual rates for benefits
(which considers married plan members) outside the control of local synods, and 2) a congregation or combined
parish is expected to provide all parts of the established minimum compensation guidelines, including housing,
to extend an independent call to a rostered ELCA person.
V.
INTERIM MINISTRY
Please refer to the “Interim Ministry Guidelines” in consultation with the synodical bishop. Call the Synod
office at 412-367-8222 for a copy of the “Interim Ministry Guidelines.”
MINIMUM COMPENSATION GUIDELINES FOR ORDAINED MINISTERS - 2016
FOR USE BY CONGREGATIONS PROVIDING A HOUSING ALLOWANCE
These Guidelines, established by the Southwestern Pennsylvania Synod Assembly,
are provided to assist congregations develop and maintain a financial compensation package for pastors of our synod
that is both fair and competitive.
The policy established by Synod Assembly action in 1997 states:
The Bishop of the Southwestern Pennsylvania Synod is precluded from placing pastors in congregations where minimum
compensation cannot be met. [Minimum compensation shall consist of that year's cash salary, housing, Social Security
allowance, required pension and health benefits, mileage, continuing education allowance, four weeks’ vacation, and
two weeks of continuing education time.]
I.
DEFINED COMPENSATION
Cash Salary
The minimum base cash salary for a new pastor (0 years of experience as an ordained pastor) is $34,792. [This
represents a 1.7% increase over the 2015 minimum cash salary.] For pastors with years of experience, $400
cash salary. An additional amount may be added to reflect factors such as scope of responsibilities and/or
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exceptional proficiency. Additional compensation should be considered for the experience and needs of second
career pastors.
Congregations that are able to raise their pastor’s compensation above synodical minimums should do so
realizing that this synod’s pastoral compensation ranks among the lowest of the 65 synods in the Evangelical
Lutheran Church in America. A congregation where a pastor is currently under call and where the compensation
guidelines have been met may wish to calculate increases based on the congregation’s budget from the previous
year. If this method is chosen, it is appropriate to increase the pastor’s cash salary by a minimum of 1.5%. An
additional amount of at least $400 should then be added for another year of experience in ordained ministry.
Social Security Allowance
The pastor must pay 15.3% Social Security tax on the total of cash salary, Social Security allowance and housing
allowance. If there is a difference between the auto and professional allowances and the actual expenses in
those areas, Social Security Tax will also be owed on the amount that is over expenses. Congregations are
urged to provide an allowance of at least 50% of the Social Security tax (as is provided for employees by
their employers). [The total of cash salary and housing allowance may be multiplied by .08284 to determine the
congregation’s approximate share of the Social Security tax.]
Housing Allowance
The minimum housing allowance is $16,084 [This amount is the same as in 2015]. Congregations located in
areas of the synod where housing is more costly should consider an additional amount.
II.
Auto Reimbursement
Three options are available:
1.
Reimbursement for miles driven according to the IRS allowance
(The 2016 rate will be posted on the synod website).
2.
Furnish a car and all related expenses (gas, maintenance, insurance, etc.)
3.
Provide an auto allowance not less than $4,000 annually
(Pastors receiving an auto allowance should be aware that it is taxable income for which the
pastor must account to the IRS.)
Except in the case of option 3, it is also appropriate for the congregation to reimburse the pastor for tolls,
parking, and other travel-related expenses when such expenses are incurred during call-related travel (not
commuting to/from work).
In the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America, congregations and pastors are expected to contribute annually
to a continuing education fund or to maintain an annual budget line from which the pastor draws for continuing
education expenses. The establishment of a fund enables money to be carried between years so that the pastor
will be able to participate in a broader scope of continuing education events. Congregations are to contribute
$650; pastors are to contribute $300. Registration fees, materials, lodging, meals and travel expenses are
included in continuing education expenses. Two full weeks of continuing education per year is expected. We
especially encourage congregations to support the pastor’s attendance at the theological convocation held
each October.
First Call Theological Education (FTCE)
All persons newly ordained in the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America are expected to participate in
FCTE for three years. Congregations served by a pastor in FCTE are sent an invoice by Region 8 for the
congregation’s share of financial support for the annual retreat and colleague groups. The synod contributes
an equal amount for each person. In 2015, the cost was $200 per year. It is intended that the FCTE fee be
taken from the Pastor’s Continuing Education fund of $550, leaving the remaining $350 for participation in other
educational activities.
It is recommended that the congregation pay for books, journals, software, etc. directly or as a direct expense
reimbursement so that this will not be taxable income for the pastor. An annual allowance of at least $200 is
recommended.
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Congregations should also take into account other expenses that the pastor may incur related to church
business. These expenses may include, for example, the cost of vestments, clerical attire, or attendance at
meetings. An annual budget of $400 from which such items can be reimbursed is recommended. It is also the
responsibility of the congregation to provide the financial support necessary for the pastor to attend the Synod
Assembly.
Technology
III.
BENEFITS
Dental, Disability and Survivor Plans. Calculations of contributions to pension, health and dental, disability and
survivor plans are based upon “Defined Compensation.” To determine “Defined Compensation,” add together:
cash salary, Social Security allowance, and housing allowance.
Pension
IV.CONDITIONS
Vacation: A minimum of four weeks, including four Sundays, is expected.
Continuing Education: Two full weeks per year is expected. However, an agreement to allow these two weeks
to be carried over in a three-year period allows the pastor the opportunity for a more extended study leave.
Please refer to the “Family Leave Policy of the Southwestern Pennsylvania Synod”. For a copy of the “Family
Ministry”. For a copy of the “Sabbatical Leave Policy” call the Synod office at 412-367-8222 or download
directly from the “Resources” section of the Synod’s website http://www.swpasynod.org
parish is expected to provide all parts of the established minimum compensation guidelines, including housing,
to extend an independent call to a rostered ELCA person.
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V.
INTERIM MINISTRY
Please refer to the “Interim Ministry Guidelines” in consultation with the synodical bishop. Call the Synod office
at 412-367-8222 for a copy of the “Interim Ministry Guidelines."
MINIMUM COMPENSATION GUIDELINES FOR ASSOCIATES IN MINISTRY - 2016
These Guidelines, established by the Southwestern Pennsylvania Synod Assembly, are provided to assist
congregations develop and maintain a financial compensation package for Associates in Ministry of our synod that is
both fair and competitive.
INTRODUCTION
Associates in Ministry serve the church in a variety of settings and bring diverse skills and training to the calls in
which they serve. Congregations and agencies utilize the gifts of Associates in Ministry in many different ways under
various time arrangements. Thus it is difficult to set a common standard for all Associates in Ministry. Therefore, each
congregation or agency that is calling an Associate in Ministry will need to develop a compensation package that is fair
to the person with all of these factors in mind.
I. CASH SALARY
The Associate in Ministry Guidelines for the Southwestern Pennsylvania Synod are based on a full-time (defined
as a 40-hour work week) rostered person with a bachelor’s degree and twenty semester hours of theological
study. The minimum salary for persons with a master’s degree should be 20% higher than the base amount
listed below. Associates in Ministry working less than 40 hours a week should be compensated proportionately.
The minimum base salary for a new Associate in Ministry (0 years of experience as a commissioned Associate
in Ministry) is $30,475. [This represents a 1.7% increase over the 2015 Guidelines.] For Associates in Ministry
with years of experience, $400 for each year of experience should be added to the minimum base cash salary
to determine the appropriate cash salary. An additional amount may be added to reflect factors such as scope
of responsibilities, exceptional proficiency, and/or attainment of additional education.
Once the initial package is established and synodical guidelines are met, including years of experience,
congregations should add at least 1.5% to the cash salary from the previous year. At least an additional $400
is then added to that total.
II. SOCIAL SECURITY
By law, the congregation must pay the employer’s share of the Social Security tax for the Associate in Ministry.
Therefore, it is not included in the cash salary. The Associate in Ministry pays the employee’s share of the
Social Security tax.
III. REIMBURSEMENT OF EXPENSES
The following expenses should be paid by the congregation in full regardless of whether the Associate in
Ministry is under call full-time or part-time.
Auto
Associates in Ministry should be reimbursed according to the current IRS standard for work-related mileage
(The 2016 rate will be posted on the synod website). It is also appropriate for the congregation to reimburse
the Associate in Ministry for tolls, parking and other travel-related expenses when such expenses are incurred
during call-related travel (not commuting to/from work). Congregations that are currently providing an auto
allowance should be aware that an auto allowance is taxable income for which the recipient must account.
Continuing Education –
In the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America, congregations and Associates in Ministry are expected to
contribute annually to a continuing education fund or to maintain an annual budget line from which the Associate
in Ministry draws continuing education expenses. The establishment of a continuing education fund enables
money to be carried between years so that the Associate in Ministry will be able to participate in continuing
education events of a broader scope. Congregations are to contribute $650; Associates in Ministry are to
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contribute $300. Registration fees, materials, lodging, meals, and travel expenses may be drawn from this
fund. Two full weeks of continuing education per year is expected. We especially encourage congregations to
support the Associate in Ministry’s attendance at the theological convocation held each October.
All persons newly commissioned as Associates in Ministry in the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America are
expected to participate in FCTE for three years. A congregation served by an Associate in Ministry in FCTE is
sent an invoice by Region 8 for the congregation’s share of support for the annual retreat and colleague groups.
The synod contributes an equal amount for each person. In 2015, the cost was $200 per year. It is intended
that the FCTE fee be taken from the Associate in Ministry’s continuing education fund of $550, leaving the
remaining $350 for participation in other educational activities.
It is recommended that the congregation pay for books, journals, software, etc., directly or as a direct expense
reimbursement so that these expenses will not be taxable for the Associate in Ministry. An annual allowance
of at least $200 is recommended.
Congregations should be aware that Associates in Ministry are often required or asked to attend church or
community events which cost additional money (i.e., synod ministries, community ministries, a school function
in which youth of the church are performing, etc.). It is appropriate that the Associate in Ministry receive
reimbursement for expenses related to carrying out her/his call. It is also the responsibility of the congregation
to provide the financial support necessary for the Associate in Ministry to attend the Synod Assembly.
Technology
In our current environment, computers, and other technological items are often considered essential to ministry.
Congregations are encouraged to discuss the needs of the particular context. Congregations should assume
the costs of a computer, cell phone service, or other needed items in accordance with IRS guidelines. Tax
policy concerning technology reimbursements changes rapidly; please consult a tax professional to ensure
IV.BENEFITS
Associates in Ministry should be enrolled by the congregation in the ELCA Pension and Health, Dental, Disability
and Survivor plans. If not enrolled in the ELCA Plan, the Associate in Ministry should be provided with a
retirement plan and health insurance. Congregations in the Southwestern Pennsylvania Synod are urged
to provide a minimum contribution (based on cash salary) of 12% per year to the pension plan of the
Associate in Ministry.
For Associates in Ministry with less than a full-time call, it is recommended that congregations provide health,
dental, disability and survivor insurance to be proportionately funded by the congregation and the Associate in
Ministry. This is especially encouraged if the Associate in Ministry has no other health insurance. The cash
salary could be appropriately adjusted to cover the insured’s share of health insurance costs, including the
addition of family coverage.
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V. CONDITIONS
Vacation: Four weeks paid vacation is recommended.
Continuing Education: Two weeks per year is expected. An agreement to allow these two weeks to be carried
over in a three-year period provides the Associate in Ministry the opportunity for a more extended study leave.
Please refer to the “Family Leave Policy of the Southwestern Pennsylvania Synod.” For a copy of the “Family
Synod’s website: http://www.swpasynod.org
Ministry.” For a copy of the “Sabbatical Leave Policy” call the Synod office at 412-367-8222 or download
directly from the “Resources” section of the Synod’s website: http://www.swpasynod.org
parish is expected to provide all parts of the established minimum compensation guidelines to extend an
independent call to a rostered ELCA person.
MINIMUM COMPENSATION GUIDELINES FOR DIACONAL MINISTERS - 2016
congregations develop and maintain a financial compensation package for Diaconal Ministers of our synod that is
both fair and competitive.
INTRODUCTION
Diaconal Ministers serve the church in a variety of settings and bring diverse skills and training to the calls in which they
serve. Congregations and agencies utilize the gifts of Diaconal Ministers in many different ways under various time
arrangements. Thus it is difficult to set a common standard for all Diaconal Ministers. Therefore, each congregation or
agency that is calling a Diaconal Minister will need to develop a compensation package that is fair to the person with all
of these factors in mind.
I.
CASH SALARY
The Diaconal Minister Guidelines for the Southwestern Pennsylvania Synod are based on a full-time (defined
as a 40-hour work week) rostered person with a bachelor’s degree and twenty semester hours of theological
study. The minimum salary for persons with a master’s degree should be 20% higher than the base amount
listed below. Diaconal Ministers working less than 40 hours a week should be compensated proportionately.
The minimum base salary for a new Diaconal Minister (0 years of experience as a consecrated Diaconal
Minister) is $30,475. [This represents 1.7% increase over the 2015 Guidelines.] For Diaconal Ministers with
years of experience, $400 for each year of experience should be added to the minimum base cash salary to
determine the appropriate cash salary. An additional amount may be added to reflect factors such as scope of
responsibilities, exceptional proficiency, and/or attainment of additional education.
II. SOCIAL SECURITY
By law the congregation must pay the employer’s share of the Social Security tax for the Diaconal Minister.
Therefore, it is not included in the cash salary. The Diaconal Minister pays the employee’s share of the Social
Security tax.
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III. REIMBURSEMENT OF EXPENSES
The following expenses should be paid by the congregation in full regardless of whether the Diaconal Minister
is under call full-time or part-time.
Auto
Diaconal Ministers should be reimbursed according to the current IRS standard for work-related mileage (The
2016 rate will be posted on the synod website). It is also appropriate for the congregation to reimburse the
Diaconal Minister for tolls, parking and other travel-related expenses when such expenses are incurred during
call-related travel (not commuting to/from work). Congregations that are currently providing an auto allowance
should be aware that an auto allowance is taxable income for which the recipient must account.
In the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America, congregations and Diaconal Ministers are expected to contribute
annually to a continuing education fund or to maintain an annual budget line from which the Diaconal Minister
draws continuing education expenses. The establishment of a fund enables money to be carried between
years so that the Diaconal Minister will be able to participate in a broader scope of continuing education events.
Congregations are to contribute $650; Diaconal Ministers are to contribute $300. Registration fees, materials,
lodging, meals, and travel expenses may be drawn from this fund. Two full weeks of continuing education per
year is expected. We especially encourage congregations to support the Diaconal Minister’s attendance at the
theological convocation held each October.
All persons newly consecrated as Diaconal Ministers in the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America are
expected to participate in FCTE for three years. A congregation served by a Diaconal Minister in FCTE is sent
an invoice by Region 8 for the congregation’s share of support for the annual retreat and colleague groups. The
synod contributes an equal amount for each person. In 2015, the cost was $200 per year. It is intended that
the FCTE fee be taken from the Diaconal Minister’s Continuing Education fund of $550, leaving the remaining
$350 for participation in other educational activities.
reimbursement so that these expenses will not be taxable for the Diaconal Minister. An annual allowance of at
least $200 is recommended.
Congregations should be aware that Diaconal Ministers are often required or asked to attend church or community
events which cost additional money (i.e., synod ministries, community ministries, a school function in which
youth of the church are performing, etc.). It is appropriate that the Diaconal Minister receive reimbursement
for expenses related to carrying out her/his call. It is also the responsibility of the congregation to provide the
financial support necessary for the Diaconal Minister to attend the Synod Assembly.
Technology
IV. BENEFITS
Diaconal Ministers should be enrolled by the congregation in the ELCA Pension and Health, Dental, Disability
and Survivor plans. If not enrolled in the ELCA Plan, the Diaconal Minister should be provided with a retirement
plan and health insurance. Congregations in the Southwestern Pennsylvania Synod are urged to provide
a minimum contribution (based on cash salary) of 12% per year to the pension plan of the Diaconal
Minister.
For Diaconal Ministers with less than a full-time call, it is recommended that congregations provide health,
dental, disability and survivor insurance to be proportionately funded by the congregation and the Diaconal
Minister. This is especially encouraged if the Diaconal Minister has no other health insurance. The cash salary
could be appropriately adjusted to cover the insured’s share of health insurance costs including the addition of
family coverage.
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fund the Health and Dental, Disability and Survivor Plans. Contribution rates for the next year are normally
V. CONDITIONS
over in a three-year period allows the Diaconal Minister the opportunity for a more extended study leave.
Sabbatical Leave: Please refer to the “Sabbatical Leave Policy for Ordained Ministers and Diaconal Minister.”
For a copy of the “Sabbatical Leave Policy” call the Synod office at 412-367-8222 or download directly from the
“Resources” section of the Synod’s website http://www.swpasynod.org
MINIMUM COMPENSATION GUIDELINES FOR DEACONESSES - 2016
congregations develop and maintain a financial compensation package for Deaconesses of our synod that is both fair
and competitive.
INTRODUCTION
Deaconesses serve the church in a variety of settings and bring diverse skills and training to the calls in which they serve.
Congregations and agencies utilize the gifts of Deaconesses in many different ways under various time arrangements.
Thus it is difficult to set a common standard for all Deaconesses. Therefore, each congregation or agency that is calling
a Deaconess will need to develop a compensation package that is fair to the person with all of these factors in mind.
I.
CASH SALARY
The Deaconess Guidelines for the Southwestern Pennsylvania Synod are based on a full-time (defined as a 40hour work week) rostered person with a bachelor’s degree and twenty semester hours of theological study. The
minimum salary for persons with a master’s degree should be 20% higher than the base amount listed below.
Deaconesses working less than 40 hours a week should be compensated proportionately.
The minimum base salary for a new Deaconess (0 years of experience as a consecrated Deaconess) is $30,745.
[This represents a 1.7% increase over the 2015 Guidelines.] For Deaconesses with years of experience, $400
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cash salary. An additional amount may be added to reflect factors such as the scope of responsibilities,
exceptional proficiency, and/or attainment of additional education.
II.
SOCIAL SECURITY
By law the congregation must pay the employer’s share of the Social Security tax for the Deaconess. Therefore,
it is not included in the cash salary. The Deaconess pays the employee’s share of the Social Security tax.
III.
The following expenses should be paid by the congregation in full regardless of whether the Deaconess is
under call full-time or part-time.
Auto
Deaconesses should be reimbursed according to the current IRS standard for work-related mileage (The 2016
rate will be posted on the synod website). It is also appropriate for the congregation to reimburse the Deaconess
for tolls, parking and other travel-related expenses when such expenses are incurred during call-related travel
(not commuting to/from work). Congregations that are currently providing an auto allowance should be aware
that an auto allowance is taxable income for which the recipient must account.
In the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America, congregations and Deaconesses are expected to contribute
annually to a continuing education fund or to maintain an annual budget line from which the Deaconess draws
continuing education expenses. The establishment of a fund enables money to be carried between years so
that the Deaconess will be able to participate in a broader scope of continuing education events. Congregations
are to contribute $650; Deaconesses are to contribute $300. Registration fees, materials, lodging, meals, and
travel expenses may be drawn from this fund. Two full weeks per year is expected. We especially encourage
congregations to support the Deaconess’ attendance at the theological convocation held each October.
First Call Theological Education (FCTE) – All persons newly consecrated as Deaconesses in the Evangelical
Lutheran Church in America are expected to participate in FCTE for three years. A congregation served by a
Deaconess in FCTE is sent an invoice by Region 8 for the congregation’s share of support for the annual retreat
and colleague groups. The synod contributes an equal amount for each person. In 2015 the cost was $200
per year. It is intended that the FCTE fee be taken from the Deaconesses’ Continuing Education fund of $550,
leaving the remaining $350 for participation in other educational activities.
reimbursement so that these expenses will not be taxable for the Deaconess. An annual allowance of at least
$200 is recommended.
Congregations should be aware that Deaconesses are often required or asked to attend church or community
events which cost additional money (i.e., synod ministries, community ministries, a school function in which
youth of the church are performing, etc.). It is appropriate that the Deaconess receive reimbursement for
expenses related to carrying out her/his call. It is also the responsibility of the congregation to provide the
financial support necessary for the Deaconess to attend the Synod Assembly.
Technology
IV.BENEFITS
Deaconesses should be enrolled by the congregation in the ELCA Pension and Health, Dental, Disability and
Survivor plans. If not enrolled in the ELCA Plan, the Deaconess should be provided with a retirement plan
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and health insurance. Congregations in the Southwestern Pennsylvania Synod are urged to provide a
minimum contribution (based on cash salary) of 12% per year to the pension plan of the Deaconess.
For Deaconesses with less than a full-time call, it is recommended that congregations provide health, dental,
disability and survivor insurance to be proportionately funded by the congregation and the Deaconess. This is
especially encouraged if the Deaconess has no other health insurance. The cash salary could be appropriately
adjusted to cover the insured’s share of health insurance costs, including the addition of family coverage.
fund the Health and Dental, Disability and Survivor Plans. Contribution rates for the next year are normally
available in the fall. Since the contribution rates vary according to geographical location and age, you should
contact the Portico Benefit Services directly for rate information.
V.CONDITIONS
over in a three-year period allows the Deaconess the opportunity for a more extended study leave.
Sabbatical Leave: Please refer to the “Sabbatical Leave Policy for Ordained Ministers and Diaconal Ministers.”
For a copy of the “Sabbatical Leave Policy” call the Synod office at 412-367-8222 or download directly from the
“Resources” section of the Synod’s website http://www.swpasynod.org
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DATA ON NOMINEES
Name:
Address:
Phone Number(s):
Occupation:
Conference:
Congregational Membership:
The following is included with the data on each nominee:
Biographical information such as service in local congregation, synod, churchwide, and community.
Why do you want to serve in this position?
BETHESDA CHILDREN'S HOME/LUTHERAN SOCIAL SERVICES
(Layperson)
Brenda Eagan Brown, MEd. CBIS
1891 Old State Road, New Castle, PA 16101; 724-944-7744
Program Coordinator, PA Brain Inuury School Consulting Program
Conference 1; Good Shepherd Lutheran Church, New Castle, PA
Brenda Eagan Brown is the statewide Program Coordinator for Pennsylvania’s Brain Injury School Consulting
Program called BrainSTEPS. BrainSTEPS is jointly funded by the PA Department of Education and PA Department of
Health, and is implemented by the Brain Injury Association of PA. She received her Master’s Degree in the educational
aspects of pediatric traumatic brain injury from the George Washington University, where she now serves as an adjunct
professor in the Graduate School of Education. She is a Certified Brain Injury Specialist, and serves on numerous
state and national advisory boards, including four years as a Director on the Board for the Crisis Shelter of Lawrence
County, two of which were served on the executive board. She is published, regularly presents at the state, national
and international levels and has received multiple state/national awards for her work in pediatric brain injury. Currently,
she serves as an Expert Reviewer for the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) Report to Congress on Management of
Traumatic Brain Injury in Children and has also co-authored a CDC document on return to school. Ms. Eagan Brown
was also chosen to be an expert presenter for the Obama appointed Institute of Medicine/National Research Council
committee. Ms. Eagan Brown spearheaded the development and statewide implementation of PA’s BrainSTEPS: Return
to Learn Concussion Management Team Model, which was featured in The Wall Street Journal. To date, she has trained
over 1,000+ school district based concussion teams in the past 3.5 years. Ms. Eagan Brown has been charged with
co-leading the first national Concussion Return to Learn Consensus paper for the National Collaborative for Children’s
Brain Injury, where she also chairs several committees. Most importantly, she has a brother who sustained a severe
traumatic brain injury while they were teenagers, which is when her passion for helping families and students began.
Ms. Eagan Brown grew up attending LOMO’s Camp Luther family church camp in Conneaut, OH, and she continues to
vacation there each summer with her husband and 18-year-old twins.
Ms. Eagan Brown believes that her prior experience serving on a Board of Directors for a local Crisis Shelter, as well
as her current work with children who have special needs provides her with a strong background to serve on the Board
of Directors for the Bethesda Children’s Home. Most recently, Ms. Eagan Brown has become interested in serving on
a Board of Directors again because her twins will be graduating this year (June 2016) and she will have more free time
to devote to community service.
Gregory A. Furer, B.S., CFP
114 Douglas Drive, Pittsburgh, PA 15215; 724-822-9800
Certified Financial Planner
Conference 2; Bethlehem Lutheran Church, Glenshaw, PA
My wife Amanda and I live in the Fox Chapel area of Pittsburgh. I am a Certified Financial Planner with PNC
Investments. I have been an advisor for ten years and with PNCI over eight years. I got my bachelor in accounting
from the University of Pittsburgh and Certificate in Financial Planning at Duquesne. I was baptized and grew up at
Trinity Evangelical Lutheran Church in Freeport. In my time at that congregation I served in many capacities, including
lector, assisting minister, communion assistant, church council, youth group advisor, finance committee, call committee,
constitution and bylaws committee, and seminarian committee. I have been at my current congregation for three years
and joined when I moved. I have served in leadership capacity in many ways. I served for seven years as Township
Supervisor in Buffalo Township PA. Growing up I served God in many capacities, including multiple mission trips to
Mexico, Guatemala and domestically. I served for five years as a camp counselor at Laurelview Christian Camp. I
currently am a coordinator for Howard International Ministries where I coordinate a team of friend, family and church
members to prepare a meal for 150 homeless and serve it to them in the streets of Pittsburgh after a Gospel message.
I have served on the Bethesda Children's Home board for three years. I was one of the leaders in a complete overhaul
of the board that included leadership change and complete review of the bylaws. I worked with others to create a
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scholarship fund for the children. I also currently serve as the Chairman of the Bethedsa Foundation Board, which
managed the properties and is the fundraising arm of Bethesda. I serve as golf committee chair of Genesis of Pittsburgh,
which is an adoption agency in the Pittsburgh area. Last, I serve in a leadership role with L3 leadership, a Christian
based leadership group for young leaders in Pittsburgh, and I also blog on Christian-based leadership for them.
The scripture James 1:27 has always spoken to me. In all my capacities of service, I am focused on the widows, the
orphans and the poor. I feel that God has given me certain talents and gifts. I believe that my skills in finance, leadership,
and getting everyone to rally around a common goal have served the Bethesda ministry well over the past three years.
I believe I can continue to use these skills to fulfill James 1:27 by serving on the board at Bethesda. I look forward to
tackling head-on some more issues and continue to build and grow this important and historic ministry for the future.
LUTHERAN SENIORLIFE – BOARD OF DIRECTORS
(Clergy)
William B. Diehm
1886 Sample Road, Allison Park, PA 15101; 412-977-8900
Pastor
Conference 2; St. John's Lutheran Church of Highland, Pittsburgh (North Hills)
Have served 12 years as Sr. Pastor of St. John’s of Highland; Member of Synod Budget and Finance Committee;
Lutheran SeniorLife Board of Directors (2005-2011, 2014-16); Region 8 candidacy committee chaplain (2013-2016);
Partner in Evangelical Worship consultant.
In my tenure as board member of Lutheran SeniorLife, I have had the privilege of serving with faithful staff and
fellow board members. I would be honored to help further the mission of “living an abundant life” another term. Of all
the boards and groups of which I have served, Lutheran SeniorLife continues to be the most engaging. There is much
to learn and many ways to serve!
James W. Dollhopf
215 Filbert Road, Butler, PA 16001; 724-285-8212
Retired Pastor
Conference 2; Nativity Lutheran Church, Allison Park
I currently serve on and chair the Synod Committee on Congregational Life and the VNA of Western Pennsylvania,
and serve on the boards of Lutheran SeniorLife , The Community Health Clinic and Meals on Wheels of Butler.
Having served on and chaired the board of Lutheran SeniorLife some years ago in difficult times, it has been a
privilege to serve on the board as it expands its ministry to this ever growing segment of our population. This is a very
important ministry of the church and I welcome the opportunity to continue to serve in this capacity.
LUTHERAN SENIORLIFE – BOARD OF DIRECTORS
(Layperson)
Ron Coombs, CPA
2554 Shellburne Drive, Wexford, PA 15090; 724-935-9435
CFO, Non-Profit Regional Industrial Development Corporation of Southwestern PA
Conference 2; St. John's Lutheran Church of Highland, Pittsburgh (North Hills)
Current Board and Executive Committee member of Lutheran SeniorLife; past Board member and Chairman
of Lutheran SeniorLife Foundation; current President of Lutherlyn Properties and Lutherlyn Foundation; past Board
member and officer of Lutherlyn; past Council President and Finance Committee member of St. John’s Lutheran Church
of Highland; active member of congregation for over 25 years. I am currently the Chief Financial Officer of the Non-Profit
Regional Industrial Development Corporation of Southwestern PA, (RIDC). I am also a Certified Public Accountant
specializing in financial planning and operations. My background includes small business management, private equity
and strategic planning.
I have been involved with Lutheran SeniorLife for nearly 10 years, first through the Lutheran SeniorLife Foundation
and now on the Lutheran SeniorLife Board. I believe in the mission of the organization. I am proud to be a part of
the growth and expansion of Lutheran SeniorLife and the services it provides to seniors. My financial background
and prior work with the Lutheran SeniorLife management team has helped me understand the changing health care
market for seniors. I enjoy working with the management team as it develops its strategy to deliver quality health care
in a dramatically changing financial environment for senior services. I am deeply concerned with the needs for care of
the elderly, particularly the rural poor who have limited access to services due to limited finances and transportation.
Lutheran SeniorLife’s LIFE programs and memory care services are excellent examples of the work we can do for some
of the most vulnerable people in our communities. I think my background as a financial manager and my experiences
in finance, real estate development and growth companies are all relevant skills that can be useful at the board level in
setting strategy in a changing health care environment.
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Marilyn D. Landis
114 Shannon Drive, Pittsburgh, PA 15237; 800-373-6916
President, CEO and Founder, Basic Business Concepts, Inc.
Conference 2; Bethlehem Lutheran Church, Glenshaw
Marilyn D. Landis is the President & CEO of Basic Business Concepts, Inc., a multifaceted service firm providing the
support to keep businesses financially balanced, on track and growing. “We provide entrepreneurs access to affordable
CFO-level skills that are customized to their unique business.” The CFO focuses on strategy and risk and is the forward
thinking financial resource to the management team. In this role, Ms. Landis has over 15 years of experience working
with small businesses across all industries nationwide, providing financial CFO leadership. Directly, and with her
team, she has enabled clients to improve their financial resilience through sound financial planning, improved financial
reporting, enhanced cash flow management and improved funding options. Ms. Landis has over 30 years of experience
in financial services. Prior to focusing on her own business she worked for and with commercial lenders, banks and
small businesses throughout Western Pennsylvania. In her career, she has served as a financial consultant; headed
training, consumer loan and mortgage departments; collected delinquent loans; and coordinated operations for a multibank merger. Ms. Landis has worked for three of the largest SBA lenders in the country – marketing, originating and
underwriting SBA loans. August of 2010, she was appointed to the Office of the National Ombudsman Regulatory and
Fairness Board and continues to serve in a second term. Ms. Landis also serves in numerous other organizations and
offices, as well as volunteer and community service boards and organizations.
In answer to the question of why she wishes to serve on the board of Lutheran SeniorLife, she answers, "I believe
deeply in the mission and the role Lutheran SeniorLife plays in the lives of seniors and the faith based ministry of the
church."
Kurt Herbst, B.S., M.B.A.
121 Laurel Crest Drive, Wexford, PA 15090; 724-935-0253
Financial Associate, Thrivent Financial
Conference 1; First English Lutheran Church, Pittsburgh (Downtown)
Member of Church Council, Stewardship Committee and Worship Committee at First Lutheran. Also serve as Head
Usher. Financial Associate for Thrivent Financial. Assist PLUM (Pittsburgh Lutheran United Ministries) congregations in
using Thrivent programs to reach out to their communities. B.S. in Business and M.B.A. from Eastern Illinois University.
My mother is 96 years old and has lived the past 10 years in a traditional nursing home in the Chicago area. I
appreciate Lutheran SeniorLife’s approach to living abundantly and wish that was an option for my mother. I have
enjoyed serving on the Lutheran SeniorLife Foundation Board for the past 1 1/2 years and am grateful for the opportunity
to expand that service.
James Cunningham
406 Stoneridge Blvd., Butler, PA 16001; 724-283-6448
Fundraising Executive
Conference 2; First English Lutheran Church, Butler
Jim has had a long and distinguished career as a consultant, employee and volunteer for a wide variety of Lutheran
non-profit organizations and congregations. His work and dedication has positively impacted the philanthropic results
and mission effectiveness of organizations throughout the eastern United States. Jim has helped raise millions of dollars
in charitable resources for numerous organizations during his career. Some of his local clients over the past twenty years
have included Lutheran SeniorLife, Lutheran Service Society, the Lutheran University Center, Thiel College, Glade Run
Lutheran Services, Bethesda Children’s Home and several Lutheran congregations in Western Pennsylvania. He also
served as the Director of Development for Lutherlyn for several years. Jim is a member of First English Lutheran Church
in Butler and is a past president of church council. He currently is a deacon at First English and sings in the choir. He
was named the 2005 Outstanding Fundraising Executive by the Western Pennsylvania Chapter of the Association of
Fundraising Professionals. He was also named a Distinguished Alumnus of Butler County Community College in 2006.
Jim is a professional trumpet player and plays in the Butler County Symphony Orchestra, the Pittsburgh Civic Orchestra
and the Trinity Jazz Orchestra. He served as a musician in the U.S. Navy and played lead trumpet in the Northwest
Navy Show Band in Seattle, Washington. Jim is a graduate of Slippery Rock University and lives in Butler with his wife
Jeanette. They have four children and seven grandchildren.
Jim would like to serve on the board because he feels that Lutheran SeniorLife is a wonderful Social Ministry
Organization of our synod and has provided quality services to the residents of Western Pennsylvania for many years.
He has conducted two major capital campaigns as a consultant to Lutheran SeniorLife and would like to continue being
of service to them as a volunteer member of the board.
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LUTHERAN SERVICE SOCIETY – BOARD OF DIRECTORS
(Clergy)
Allyn K. Itterly
153 Betty Rae Drive, Pittsburgh, PA 15236; 412-719-8811
Pastor
Conference 6; Prince of Peace Lutheran Church, Pleasant Hills
I have been a pastor for nearly 25 years and have served the church in a variety of ways. Locally, I have been active
in our ministerium and conference as secretary. In the synod I have had experience with several committees - Ministry,
Congregational Life and Global Missions - and have served on the LSS Board. I have also been part of a group offering
support to Glade Run. In the church at large, I have been part of the Evangelical Lutheran Coalition for Mission in
Appalachia, Extraordinary Lutheran Ministries and the Evangelism Task Force.
I have served on the LSS Board for a year fulfilling a vacancy and have been excited about the work that is part
of its history and the visioning that is being done for its future. I would be honored to be part of this work and ministry.
Tricia Schneck
714 Willruth Drive, Allison Park, PA 15101; 412-486-4203
Pastor
Conference 3; St. Mark's Lutheran Church, Springdale
I have been a parish pastor for 14 years. I have been on the Synod Ministry Committee. I have served as a
volunteer Chaplain at Lutherlyn for many years. I was also Chaplain at St. John’s Specialty Care Center for a brief time.
I am active in the Allegheny Valley Ministerial Group.
I feel that we, as a human race, should take better care of our children and the elderly. Being a foster parent, I
have seen firsthand the way children are poorly treated, neglected and discarded. Because I have a desire to make a
difference, I would like to serve on the Board of Directors for Lutheran Service Society to support our ministries among
the children and the elderly.
LUTHERAN SERVICE SOCIETY – BOARD OF DIRECTORS
(Clergy or Laypersons )
Wayne Franzen, BSME, MSME, PhD.
321 Picture Drive, Pittsburgh, PA 15236; 412-653-4321
Retired Engineer
Conference 6; Prince of Peace Lutheran Church, Pleasant Hills
Past and current local congregation activities include: Church Council member, President, Secretary, and Treasurer;
Worship and Music committee chair; choir member; capital fund committee chair; search committee chair; and finance
committee chair. Past and current Southwestern Pennsylvania Synod activities include: Lutheran Campus Ministry of
Greater Pittsburgh Board member, Chair, and Treasurer; Lutheran Service Society Board member and Chair; Synod
representative on the LAMPa Policy Council; Synod Church in Society Committee member and chair; Agapé Board
member; and Lutheran SeniorLife Board member.
[I wish to serve in this position] to support the mission of the Southwestern Pennsylvania Synod to the best of my
ability. My experience on various church related boards and committees and as an engineer and technical manager has
equipped me to independently, thoroughly, and actively participate on the Lutheran Service Society Board of Directors.
Brandon A. Johns
242 Van Buren Street, Evans City, PA 16033; 724-674-7238
Pastor
Conference 2; St. Peter's Lutheran Church, Evans City
Pastor at St. Peter’s, Evans City, present; Pastor at St. Matthew’s, Lake Ridge, VA, 2011-2016; Lake Ridge Elderly
Development Board Member and Treasurer, 2014-2016; Fellowship Square Foundation Corporate Member, 2014 –
2016; SWPA Synod Council, 2005 - 2007.
I believe in being an active participant in all three expressions of the ELCA and am happy to serve God and our
Church however I can. Before moving back to the area, I served on the board for a Lutheran-rooted ministry for senior
citizens. The ministry was an apartment building in my community for low income seniors. Our church also had a great
partnership with the staff and residents at the Fellowship House, so I got to see (and do) firsthand how we can continue
to be God’s hands for the care of our elder brothers and sisters. It was a moving and spirit-building experience, which
I expect to find as part of this position as well as the opportunity to continue to learn and grow.
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OHIO VALLEY LUTHERAN BIBLE CAMP ASSOCIATION (AGAPÉ) – BOARD OF DIRECTORS
(Clergy or Laypersons)
Timothy Dawes
1017 Vine Street, West Newton, PA 15089; 724-709-0475
Pastor
Conference 5; Christ Lutheran Church, West Newton
I am in my first call parish as a co-pastor [in the Mid Mon Valley Lutheran Parish] and had ministered as a Catholic
Priest for 14 years before stepping aside and working as a family-based mental health therapist for 14 years. I have
been an Eagle Scout and led youth group camping and work camp experiences.
I am interested in supporting the work of Camp Agapé in providing a positive experience of spiritual growth and
equipping them to bring that fire back to their families and congregations.
Charles M. Churby, II
6535B National Pike, Grindstone, PA 15442; 724-710-6730
Certified Caregiver
Conference 5; St. Andrew's Lutheran Church, Brownsville
I am currently the council president for St. Andrew's Evangelical Lutheran Church in Brownsville, Pennsylvania.
I am a certified caregiver for TRIPIL Services in Washington, Pennsylvania (Tri-County Partnership for Independent
Living). I hold a degree in Specialized Technology (Culinary Arts).
[I wish to serve in this position because] I was asked by the nominating committee. I am willing to serve. I was a
Boy Scout and Boy Scout leader for many years. I like to camp, although I do not get to do it as much as I would like to.
Karen L. Shaffer
1005 Pemberton Street, Pittsburgh, PA 15212; 412-330-9004
Retired Food Service Specialist
Conference 3; St. Andrew, Pittsburgh (Shadyside)
I am a retired food service specialist from Giant Eagle. I attended Penn State as well as several technical schools
during my lifetime. I am a member of St. Andrew, Shadyside, and have served on various committees there, as well as
church council. On the synodical level, I have worked on the Congregational Life Committee. I was part of the volunteer
staff for the churchwide convention that met here in Pittsburgh. I currently volunteer at Abiding Ministries and at Camp
Agapé.
I have enjoyed my first year serving on the board of Camp Agapé. There have been several issues that the board
has dealt with that have been very instrumental in the future of the camp. I believe that the strengths and ideas that I
can bring would be helpful going forward. It has been my pleasure to work at Agape, and I look forward to serving in
whatever ways I can.
Dennis T. Orsen, B.A., M.Div., D.Min.
420 Nike Drive, Pittsburgh, PA 15235; 412-824-5945
Retired Pastor
Conference 4; Emmanuel, Pittsburgh (Eastmont)
I served the church as a parish pastor for thirty-nine years (34 were in an urban context and 5 in a rural context).
During these years I served on a variety of committees and boards in the church and in the community. Since my
retirement I have continued to serve the church as: interim pastor, supply pastor, Bible study leader, Agapé Board
member, and Southwestern Pennsylvania Synod Hunger Task Force member. I am actively involved in my congregation
of membership serving on the congregation council, working with the financial structure, budgets, etc., stewardship,
evangelism and property. I have received a B.A., M. Div. and D. Min. degrees from educational institutions.
Having been involved with Camp Agapé's ministry (in various roles) for thirty-four years, I am able to offer insights
from Agapé's history. Also, I am familiar with Agapé's property and understand where property improvements are
needed to better support the ministry programs. Having put much energy into developing a respectful Christ-centered
summer camp ministry with a variety of curriculums in a matrix of Christian community, a retreat hospitality ministry in a
rural setting with breath taking vista, and property improvements, I desire (at this time) to develop serious environmental
education and to strengthen the organizational infrastructure.
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BULLETIN OF REPORTS
254

bulletin of reports - Southwestern PA Synod

Transcription

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