Northwestern Minnesota Synod Bishop`s Report 2014

Northwestern Minnesota Synod Bishop’s Report 2014 - continued
Larry Wohlrabe
Faith in Jesus Christ embraces the totality of our lives, so we respond in both witness and service to our neighbors. During
2014, the NW MN Synod was one of the top ten (of 65) ELCA synods in its support for the ELCA Malaria Campaign—with
total contributions from the synod now topping $300,000 and still climbing. At our synod assembly, sixth grader Ava Aigner
of Faith Lutheran Church, Wolverton, was recognized for her efforts at championing the Campaign. LSS of MN’s Servant of
Christ award honored the outstanding social ministry efforts at Calvary Lutheran Church of Bemidji. Little Norway Lutheran
Church, Fertile, was given the “Holy Cow Award” for highest per-capita giving to ELCA Hunger, and Gloria Dei Lutheran
Church, Felton, was honored with the “Holy Mackeral Award” for creativity in addressing issues of food insecurity. The
week before synod assembly The Hunger Ride, brought bicycling “Hunger Ambassadors” into a dozen communities across the
synod, drawing attention to the issue of hunger and how ELCA congregations are responding. The NW MN Synod Disaster
Support fund gave grants to assist low income folks during last winter’s heating fuel shortage, and to the Wadena area flood
recovery committee.
During 2014 the synod observed several milestones, such as
Celebrating three straight years of mission support giving from congregations exceeding the previous year’s mission
support contributions;
Welcoming Pr. Hope Deutscher and Pr. Kristina Waters as new mission developers for Living Grace, Hawley, and the
Project FM, Fargo/Moorhead; and Amy Bigot as ELCA Foundation gift planner for our synod;
Bidding farewell to synod communications and events coordinator Matthew Bishop and welcoming his successor,
Courtney Williams;
Initiating a Facebook page for the synod that has already garnered over 550 “likes” and followers;
Recognizing Synod Women’s Organization President Lois Bylund (of Trinity, Moorhead) upon her election to the
churchwide Women of the ELCA executive board;
Marking the conclusion of criminal court proceedings against former synod bookkeeper Robert D. Larson who was
sentenced to 48 months in prison and an order of restitution of nearly $787,000 to the synod and the synod’s
insurance company.
Looking ahead, I invite all congregations of the synod to keep growing in their giving to ELCA/synod mission support and
ELCA designated ministries like ELCA Hunger and the ELCA Malaria Campaign. Pray that God will raise up a faithful,
visionary steering committee to guide our synod’s efforts in raising at least $4.75 million for the Campaign for the ELCA
(which concludes 1/31/2019). Challenge one another to learn more about our synod’s Fostering Vibrant Faith project. Implore
the Holy Spirit to assist all congregations and ministry agencies who are calling new leaders—including our synod’s two
Lutheran campus ministries in Bemidji and Moorhead as well as Pathways Bible Camps.
A Yearly Insight into the Life of Our Savior’s Lutheran
2014
annual report
Annual Meeting
Annual Meeting Agenda ........................................................................................................... 2
Minutes of the January 26, 2014 Annual Meeting .................................................................. 3
Special Congregational Meeting May 4, 2014 Minutes ..…………………………………….5
Miller Architects & Builders Study ……………………………………………………………6
Feasibility Study Question and Answer ………………………………………………………8
Brenda Moore & Associates Feasibility Study Recommendations …………………….…...9
Congregational Statistical Report ………………………………………………………….…10
2015 Proposed Budget & 2014 Financials……………………………………………….……11
Our Savior’s is a vibrant,
Spirit-led community, that
welcomes all ages and invites
people from all walks of life to
follow Jesus. Our purpose is
to introduce Jesus, interpret
the Christian life, invite
transformation, and to invest
in God’s dream for the world.
Staff Leadership
Soul Script…………………………………………………………………………………….…15
Pastor Loren Mellum …...…………………………………………………………………….16
Pastor Jerry R. Protextor ………………………………………………………………………17
Committees /Teams
Social Justice Committee ……………………………………………………………………. 19
Good Samaritan Team ……………………………………………………………………….. 20
Youth & Family Discipleship Committee……………………………………………………21
Thank you so much for your constant prayers, generous financial giving and faithful partnership!
Organizations / Groups
Hannah Circle ……………………………………………………………………..…………...23
Altar Guild ……………………………………………………………………………………..24
Prayer Shawl Ministry…………………………………………………………………………24
Visitation Ministry …………………………………………………………………….……... 24
Address
610 13th Street North
Moorhead, MN 56560
Phone
(218) 233-2412
Fax
(218) 233-6237
Email
[email protected]
Website
Ministry Partners
New Life Center Auxiliary …………………………………………………………………...24
NW MN Synod Bishop’s Report……………………………………………………………..25
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oursaviorsmoorhead.org
Facebook
fb.com/oursaviorsmoorhead
Northwestern Minnesota Synod Bishop’s Report 2014
annual meeting >>>
Larry Wohlrabe
2015 Annual Congregational Meeting Agenda
Sunday, January 25, 2015
Welcome and Call to Order
Congregational President Deb Hovde
Approval of Agenda
Opening Prayer and Song
Approval of Minutes of January 26, 2014 Annual Meeting
Reports
Council President
Blessings of 2015
Pastors’ and Staff Reports
Acceptance of Committee and Team Reports
2014 Treasurer’s Report
New Business
2015 Budget
Feasibility Study
Elections
Congregational Council Members
Northwestern Minnesota Synod Assembly Delegates
Nominating Committee
Representatives to Partner Ministry Boards
Adjournment
Benediction
The past year afforded our synod rich opportunities to live deeper into the Next Generation Vision that has been guiding our
synod’s 92,000+ disciples and 230+ congregations in calling forth, raising up, forming in faith and spiritual leadership, and
sending the next generations of disciples of our Lord Jesus Christ.
Nearly 500 voting members and friends gathered at Concordia College in May for the 26th annual assembly of our synod,
under the theme Faith at Home…At Home in Faith. Our keynoter, the Rev. Dr. David W. Anderson of Vibrant Faith Ministries
spoke on the timely topic, “Shepherd of Souls: Faith Formed Through Mentoring Relationships.” We also welcomed home our
own Mikka McCracken as ELCA Churchwide Representative, who works for ELCA Hunger in Chicago.
A crucial resolution passed at the synod assembly committed our synod to forming a multi-year partnership with Vibrant Faith
Ministries to provide training, coaching and resources for helping congregations focus on faith formation by caring adults in homes and
households. At year’s end forty congregations (26 parishes) had already stepped forward to participate in our Fostering
Vibrant Faith Project. The first two training events brought about 150 participants to Roseau in September and Thief River Falls
in November—with the next training event slated for January 24, 2015 at Calvary of Bemidji. Learn more about how Fostering
Vibrant Faith can help your congregation embrace in fresh ways our Lord’s invitation to make passing on the faith central in
our lives by going to http://nwmnsynod.org/resources/fostering-vibrant-faith/
Although the Vibrant Faith project focuses on the youngest among us, we care deeply about faith formation for all ages.
All our congregations nurture the faith implanted in us by the Holy Spirit. In 2014, our synod also nourished faith by
Sponsoring four EEEvents (Engaging, Enlightening, Energizing) for church council and other parish leaders, featuring the
Rev. Stephen Bouman and themes from his book The Mission Table;
Providing monthly bishop’s columns for use by councils and others, also on The Mission Table;
Lifting up lay theological education courses on the Old Testament (in Thief River Falls) and “Psychological First Aid” (in
Moorhead);
Hosting Middle School and Senior High Youth Gatherings for over 1000 young people;
Partnering with other ELCA organizations to welcome to our territory exciting leaders like activist Shane Claiborne, Nobel
Laureate Leemah Gbowee and ELCA Presiding Bishop Elizabeth Eaton;
Hosting spring stewardship events with the Rev. Charles “Chick” Lane and mission interpreter training in September for
about 50 synod leaders who visited congregation councils this fall.
Faith formation among the baptized hinges on our capacity to offer vigorous support to the rostered leaders and synodical
authorized ministers (SAMs) who serve our churches. During 2014, our synod helped prepare 23 folks from synod
congregations prepare for rostered service in the ELCA; ordained 7 seminary graduates to serve in pastoral ministry; installed
20 rostered leaders and SAMs to serve in our congregations; helped birth 4 new multi-point parishes; brought well-known
author and professor Dr. Andrew Root to the annual Theology for Ministry Conference; asked the Rev. Dr. Robert Sorensen to
coordinate First Call Theological in the Eastern ND and NW MN Synods; and offered special training around topics like
“Re-Rooting in God’s Mission,” “Experiencing Coaching,” “Churches Planting Churches,” and “Healthy Boundaries in
Ministry.”
Planting new faith communities and renewing current ministries are other ways that our synod passes on faith in Jesus
Christ. During 2014, the synod offered support to ministries under development including Living Grace Lutheran Church of
Hawley; Peoples Church of Bemidji and Cass Lake; Waters of Grace Worshipping Community of Frazee; The Project FM of
Fargo/Moorhead; and the Headwaters Conference’s “Invitation to Joy” evangelism project. We are also participating in new
developments like “Calvary at the Lake” (co-sponsored by Calvary Lutheran Church and Luther Crest Bible Camp, both of
Alexandria); “Recovery Worship” and the “Wandering Vine” outreach ministries at Trinity Lutheran Church of Crookston.
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Altar Guild
New Life Center Auxiliary
The Altar Guild duties are many, including putting names on
the baptismal banner, changing the paraments according to
the church year, caring for all the candles and candle lighters,
preparing the communion every Sunday and Wednesday,
cleaning the communion ware after each service, putting the
ornaments on the Christmas tree and taking them off the tree,
and arranging all flowers at Christmas and Easter.
Everything behind the altar rail are the duties of the Altar
Guild.
“For we are what he has made us, created in Christ Jesus for good
works, which God prepared beforehand to be our way of life.”
Ephesians 2:10
This has been a challenging year for the New Life Center as
it was hard to turn away people when they had no place to
stay.
The dorm served 29,299, overflow was 724, for a total of
30,023. There were 551 new men served with a nightly
average of 84.
We purchased two new cups for the candle lighters and two
new wine fillers. A baptismal bowl, pitcher, three chalices an
three communion plates were ordered from a local potter.
The gold baptismal bowl was peeling and scratched and was
too thin to have the bowl refinished.
Transitional housing served 52 individuals.
Meals averaged 257/day with total meals for the year of
89,703.
The Altar Guild meets nine times during the year. We meet
the 2nd Tuesday of the month at 7:00 p.m. in Larson Lounge.
We take turns serving a light lunch and doing bible study. In
December we have a pot luck supper and exchange prayer
partner gifts. We draw for our new prayer partner and
remember them throughout the year with cards.
There were 813 volunteers with a total of 2532 hours served.
Metal beds were replaced along with some new showers
that would allow more privacy.
A big THANKS to all who contributed at Christmas time
and beyond, they cannot do all this without our help.
The altar guild furnished two health kits for LWR and
donated $30.00 to the Great Food Bank.
Joan Jensen and Norma Swanson,
New Life Center Representatives
Submitted by Marlene Johnson, Secretary
2014 Annual Congregational Meeting Minutes
January 26, 2014
Pastor Mellum also discussed our two-year re-rooting process,
where we startted creating our Soul Script, including our
congregation’s vision is to be a vibrant congregation that
reaches out to others. (Soul Script details are located on
paged 11 of the 2014 Annual Report.)
2014 Annual Congregational Meeting Minutes
January 26, 2014
Our Savior’s Lutheran Church is a community of Christians called, washed and
fed by the Spirit,, sent into God’s world to follow Jesus and invite others
to walk in faith, hope and love.
2013:28 funerals, 11 weddings, 25 baptisms
Welcome and Call to Order by Congregational President Deb
Hovde at 12:20 p.m.
Pastor Mellum highlighted the biblical story of David and
Goliath. He then distributed paper to all in attendance and
asked them to provide a directional pulse of where the
congregation is at with the building process; where is God
leading us? (Results of the poll are reflected in
section of these minutes.)
Approval of Agenda:
Motion to approve agenda (as attached) by Kristie Invie, seconded
by Marlo Sloan. Motion carried.
Opening prayer by Pastor Mellum.
Acceptance of Committee and Team Reports:
Committee and Team Reports were included in the 2013 Annual
Report. Motion to accept the Committee and Team Reports
as written and distributed by Vickie Harrison, seconded by
Norma Swanson. Motion carried.
Approval of Minutes:
The January 29, 2013 Annual Meeting minutes were
distributed for review. Motion to approve minutes by Becky
Cusey, seconded by Allyn Holtz. Motion carried.
2013 Treasurer’s Report:
Becky Cusey, Council Treasurer, and Marcy Harvala, Financial
Administrator, presented the Treasurer’s Report, as located
on pages 6, 7, and 8 of the 2013 Annual Report. They shared
that is has been wonderful to see a positive balance in the
checking account this year and not to have to worry about
how payroll is going to be covered. It is also wonderful to
have a more complete picture of actual financials.
Council President Report: President Hovde recognized Pastor
Mellum and staff for their dedicated service and reported the following:
Accomplishments over the past year include the Soul Script, transforming the bookkeeping/budgeting/financial process, engaging
Miller Architect and Builders in a congregational assessment. An
identified congregational goal states that we aspire to be a “highly
committed church that involved all people”.
Motion to accept the Treasurer’s Report by Warren Zaffke,
seconded by Naomi Rice. Motion carried.
Blessings of 2013: Congregation members in attendance
expressed appreciation for the following blessings:
Prayer Shawl Ministry
Visitation Ministry
Our Savior’s has a very active Prayer Shawl Ministry.
These shawls are made by several ladies and over 100
shawls are made each year. The shawl’s are all different
sizes and colors. The shawls are given to people who
need prayers because of illness, sadness, and also happy
events. The Prayer Shawl basket is in the back of the
church. Please feel free to take one if you know of
anyone who needs one or if you need one yourself.
Our Saviors has an active Visitation Ministry. We have a
gathering each month at Eventide for 15 residents. We offer
Communion, coffee and snacks, and great fellowship.
Our Prayer Shawl Meeting is the 3rd Tuesday of each
month in the Library (West Narthex) at 6:30pm – 9:00pm.
Come when you can and leave when you need. We work
on our shawls which can be crocheted or knit. Ginny
Carlson has offered to teach knitting. Come and join us
for great fellowship.
We also arrange Pastor Jerry Protextor visits. Please call the
church or one of us for a home visit.
We have 12 people going on visits and Home Communion
each month. Please call the church or one of the leaders
listed below if you know of anyone who needs a visit or
communion.
Vicki Harrison
Marlene Johnson
Linda Jones
Submitted by Ginny Carlson
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218-236-3329
218-790-0354
218-233-4233
New Business:
2014 Budget:
Marcy Harvala presented the proposed 2014 Budget. The budget
reflects income of $364,270 and we have pledges totaling
$196,000.
A 3% increase in staff salaries is included in the budget; 2 staff
were added to the pension plan and flex benefits were added
for the Office Manager.
$15,000 was included for a part-time pastor to help Pastor
Mellum.
It was noted that oil royalties played a key role in helping us meet
our obligations and benevolence commitments this year,
however those are not dollars we can count on in the future.
Motion to accept 2014 Proposed Budget by Chad Invie,
seconded by Karl Bakkum. Motion carried
Miller assessment project, Pastor Loren’s sermons, Melissa
Pickering, service units who served the many funerals last year,
Kristi Morsch taking on choir director duties, children’s choir,
youth, outreach ministries, a very caring congregation, opportunity
to house homeless people at our church, the “counting team”, new
and existing staff, excitement surrounding opportunities with our
building…and everyone else involved in Our Savior’s ministry!
Pastor’s and Staff Reports:
A written Pastor’s Report was included in the 2013 Annual
Report (as attached).
Pastor Mellum recognized Council members and staff and
reflected on staff changes that took place in the past year: Carrie Brusven resigned as Office Manager to begin her own business, Kathy Byers handed financial duties over to Sandy Kenz
who came on board as Office Manager and Financial Recorder,
and Gary Haaland, retired Head Custodian. Pastor Mellum
also announced that this marks Mary Maynard’s 25th year as
our congregation’s organist. Other staff include Melissa
Pickering, Cheryl Zeh, Marcy Harvala, Jeannie Baskerville,
Amanda Eihkoff, Christi Eihkoff, Chad Zitzow, Stan Walker,
Ryan Haug and Norma Swanson, who has served as our
wedding coordinator for 20 years. We have been very blessed
with wonderful staff!
Soul Script (Vision/Missions/Values)
An overview of the congregation’s Soul Script was provided by
Pastor Mellum (page 12 of the 2013 Annual Report).
Motion to accept the Soul Script as presented by Tasha Haug,
seconded by Allyn Holtz. Motion carried.
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2014 Annual Congregational Meeting Minutes - continued
Youth & Family Ministry - continued
January 26, 2014
Elections: The Nominating Committee presented the following
for election:
Miller Architect and Builders Construction Report
Congregation members present reviewed pages 14 and 15 of the
2013 Annual Report reflecting Miller Architect and Builders
Ministry and Facilities Recommendations. Following the
review, the results of the building poll taken earlier in the
meeting were presented:
Congregational Council Members:
3-year term: Traci Goble
Northwestern Minnesota Synod Assembly Delegates:
Connie Jarrett
Deb Nelson
Dan Bacon
Gene Anderson
Tasha Haug
Poll results:
0- Leave building as is
5- Engage schematic design with improvements not requiring
structural change
10-Update east windows and sanctuary lighting, address water
issues and mechanical needs
15-Explore land purchase options and potential 16,000 sq. ft. new
church
28-Engage schematic design with changes to the existing facility
requiring structural alteration
Alternates:
Joy Wohlrabe
Nominating Committee:
Kathe Eldred
Deb Watne
Linda Jones
Ken Adams
Karl Bakkum
Representatives to Partner Ministry Boards:
Eventide: Duane and Diane Gilbertson
Churches United: Arliss Fedje, Pauline Smith
A recommendation was forwarded from the Church Council to
move forward with a schematic design phase. $2,500 must be
raised from congregation members to do so (will not come from
budget). $2,200 was raised from congregation members for the
initial assessment phase with Miller Architect and Builders.
Motion to approve the above nominees by unanimous ballot by
Norma Swanson, seconded by Barb Bustamante. Motion
carried.
Motion to adjourn by Tom Houglum, seconded by Tasha Haug.
Motion carried.
Miller Architects provided an overview of their building assessment, including deferred maintenance, fellowship space,
sanctuary, building codes, parking, Larsen Lounge and second
floor needs, including elevator to second floor .
Meeting adjourned 1:50 p.m.
The middle school youth traveled to
Duluth, MN to serve with YouthWorks
in June 2014. This is the second time
Our Savior’s has traveled to Duluth. It
is a wonderful sight to watch the youth
serve and grow in their faith. Pastor
Loren and Abby Peno traveled with the
middle school youth.
The Middle School Mission Trip to
Green Bay, WI will take place June 7-13,
2105. Melissa Pickering will be
traveling with five young women to
Green Bay. Cost of the trip is $600.
Fundraising is ongoing. Thank you to
everyone who has given in support of
middle school mission trips. Students
return from trips refreshed and
renewed in the Spirit, and with eager
hearts to serve.
Senior High Ministries (grades 9-12)
have focused mainly on Youth Meetings, Fundraisers, Mission Trips and
Impact (senior high youth group).
Deb Watne, Recorder
The Senior High Youth Gathering is
scheduled for March 13-15,2015 at
Castaway Camp in Detroit Lakes.
Cost of the event is $160.
It was moved by Kristi Invie and seconded by Connie Jarrett to
engage Miller Architect and Builders in developing a schematic
design that includes changes to the existing facility requiring
structural alteration, with $2,500 in funding raised from
congregation members to cover the cost of the schematic design
development. The motion includes leaving the new building option
open for future discussion. Motion carried.
In 2014, Melissa Pickering and seven
senior high youth traveled to Kansas
City, MO with Pathways Bible Camps.
They served God’s people through a
program called After the Harvest, a
non-profit organization that teams up
volunteers and farmers throughout the
community. The youth picked corn,
squash, beans, peas, tomatoes, and
many other vegetables. They worked
on a peach farm, helping the farmer
clean up his planting fields. There were
also fun evening activities, like a true
Kansas City bar-b-que, a Kansas City
Royals baseball game, and worship
with the Pathways staff. Even though
it was very hot and humid, an amazing
time was had by everyone.
Our Savior’s will weigh our mission as we weigh the cost of this
phase. Miller Architects will continue to listen to the congregation
and work with the Building Team.
Constitution Update
Congregation member Dan Bacon reviewed our Constitution and
recommended revisions, as attached and presented to members
present. The last update of the Constitution was in 2005.
Mandatory and non-mandatory changes were included in Dan
Bacon’s recommendations. Following discussion,
It was moved by Don Rice and seconded by Rod Lezer to approve
the recommended Constitution revisions. Motion carried.
Dan Bacon will make the changes permanent and make them available on the congregation’s website.
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The ELCA Youth Gathering will be
held in Detroit, MI in July, 2015. Our
Savior’s has two youth and one adult
attending. Cost of the trip is $1,500
per person. Thank you for all of your
support.
Savior’s. It is our hope that every
youth who wants to be a part of an
event, meeting, or moment at Our
Savior’s is able to. We are truly blessed
with amazing kids, both young and
old, here at Our Savior’s.
Impact, a youth group for grades 9-12,
meets the second Sunday of every
month from 6:30-8:00 p.m. Attendance
has been fantastic! Everyone is looking
forward to more outings and
adventures in 2015.
Submitted by Melissa Pickering, Minister
for Youth and Family Discipleship
Both the middle school youth and high
school youth traveled to Minneapolis,
MN in August, 2014 to be God’s hands
in the world. Teaming up with
Glyndon Lutheran, Our Savior’s had
16 youth participate in this trip. It was
fantastic! The youth and adults went to
a Twins game, the Mall of America and
stayed in a hotel. The following
morning was spent at a church in Lino
Lakes, MN doing various jobs for them.
The afternoon was spent at Feed My
Starving Children, a favorite service
event for Our Savior’s youth. 2015 will
bring another mini-mission trip to
Minneapolis, with Como Zoo and
Valleyfair on the list of possible
attractions.
The youth of Our Savior’s and their
adult leaders are very grateful to all
members and friends of the
congregation for their strong support
of our youth ministries. As we look to
2015, we are hoping to continue the
wonderful growth of the youth
programs, along with putting in place
new service events. Our Savior’s
continues to grow its youth programs,
with many youth coming to church
throughout the week just to “hang out”
and be a part of something bigger than
themselves. There are many opportunities for youth to get involved if they
choose to at Our
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Hannah Circle
The Hannah Circle meets the third
Tuesday of each month in the Larson
Lounge at 2:00 p.m. We have 14
members and meet nine months a year
for Bible Study. New members and
visitors are always welcome. Our
members save dimes and turn them in
each month for the Good Samaritan
Fund. This year we gave a total of
$102.00 to the fund. A donation in the
amount of $156.50 was given to the
OSLC worship fund in 2014.
One of our members, Jane Axtman,
put together layettes for infants. Most
of these items are donated by the
Hannah Circle members. The layettes
were then donated to the Lutheran
World Relief Program.
In March each year, we donate pillows
and pillowcases to the New Life Center
in Fargo.
Submitted by:
Ruth Dahlquist, Chairperson
Kay M. Rokke, Treasurer
Youth & Family Discipleship Committee - continued
The graduating seniors from Our
Savior’s are celebrated in late spring
with Senior Sunday, where they
receive quilts made by congregational
members and attend a brunch with
their families. In 2014, 15 seniors
received quilts and celebrated at the
Senior Sunday reception with their
families.
Faith Family Sundays –Beginning in
October, in conjunction with the
Sunday School Education Hour, Our
Savior’s held its first Faith Family
Sunday. Sunday school children,
parents, siblings, grandparents and
friends gathered in the Fellowship
Hall during the education hour to
make Thanksgiving placemats that
were displayed at the Turkey Dinner,
hosted by the OSLC Youth
(November). It was a huge success,
with over 100 people in attendance.
On November 23, Our Savior’s held its
second Faith Family Sunday, making
various ornaments and table decorations for the residents of Linden Tree
Circle-Eventide. There are three more
Faith Family Sundays scheduled
(Bingo in January, Family Trees in
February and an Easter project in
March). It has been wonderful to see
all generations working together, and
having fellowship opportunities with
one another.
Diaconal Ministry Intern- After
saying goodbye to Andrea Keene in
2013, Our Savior’s welcomed her back
“home” in the fall of 2014. Andrea has
been serving Our Savior’s in many
various roles this year, and will
continue to be a part of Our Savior’s
through May, 2015. Andrea is
completing her field work experience
requirement for Wartburg Seminary at
Our Savior’s. She has started a
program for youth in grades K-5, Kids
Club, that meets weekly. Andrea is
also a leader for Confirmation and
Adult Education. She helps out with
all youth activities and many other
Events that take place at Our Savior’s.
She is serving on the Social Justice Team,
and is also completing some of her
required hours at Churches United.
Thank you to Chad, Kristie, Grant and
Kylee Invie for being her host family
throughout this year, and to the
Endowment Committee for providing
funding for Andrea.
Thanks – We would like to thank those
who have served in Youth and Family
Ministry in any way this year. All of the
Education and Youth programs here
could not exist without the caring and
devoted volunteers. We are all very
blessed to have such kind and giving
members. Sunday School teachers,
leaders and shepherds, confirmation
guides and large group presenters are
the backbone of the Christian Education
Department at OSLC. The following
people are teaching and helping with
Sunday School this year: Ginna Nustad,
Jordan Rowland, Wendy Blue, Austen
Norman, Sarah Nelson, Katy Pickering,
Claire Rix, Peggy Goodman, Connie
Jarrett, Kaitlyn Jarrett, Zach Fjelstad, Kris
Fjelstad, Stephanie Davenport, Laurene
Fuglseth, Laura Peterson, Aaron
Norman, Abbey Zuehlsdorff, Marcia
Norman, and Traci Goble. Thank you to
all the substitute Sunday School teachers
who have volunteered their time
throughout the year.
We are also very blessed to have the
following adults helping out with
confirmation classes): Tasha Haug,
Abby Peno, Richard Rix, Robin Hamre,
Andrea Keene, Kassidi Steffes, Shellie
Wambach, and Marlene Johnson.
We would love to welcome new
members to the Youth and Family
Discipleship Team, as well as to our
Sunday School and Confirmation
volunteer staff. If you love kids, and you
love God, you are qualified!
Thank you to all that have helped out
this year!
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Special Congregation Meeting, May 4, 2014 - Minutes
2014 Youth Ministry Report
Youth ministries at Our Savior’s
complement the ways our young
people are engaged in worship, music,
educational and other ministries of the
congregation. We focus on three age
groups:
Kids Club (grades 1-5) meets most
Wednesdays and is under the direction
of Andrea Keene. Nineteen young
students join Andrea in the youth room
for snacks, devotions, crafts and games
from 2:45-5:15 p.m. Thank you to Our
Savior’s middle and high school youth
for helping out, and to Christie Clarey
for being an additional adult when
needed. Included with the registration
fee for Kids Club is the Wednesday
night meal. All of the youth stay to eat
each Wednesday.
Middle School Ministries (grades 6-8)
are carried out primarily in conjunction
with our confirmation program. This
includes separate retreats for each
grade level: 7th Grade (a Sunday
afternoon in late fall) and 8th Grade (a
Sunday afternoon in February).
SONs (Sundaes on Sunday), youth
group for students in grades 6-8, has
been meeting on the second Sunday of
each month, from 4-5:30 p.m. This has
been a wonderful time of fellowship,
fun, and of course, food! Our Savior’s
is blessed to have such an active middle
school youth group. The students are
looking forward to the year ahead.
The Middle School Youth Gathering
was held in October 2014, with 16 Our
Savior’s youth attending the event.
They had an amazing two days
worshipping and playing at
Arrowwood Resort in Alexandria, MN.
Claire Rix and Grant Invie were
WHEATYs for the event (high school
youth assistants), and Melissa
Pickering, Andrea Keene, and Brad
Cusey were the adult leaders.
Attendance: 150
1. If we rebuild what is the time frame? Design about
4-5 months; 9 months to build
2. City of Moorhead annex and expand north?
3. What is disadvantage of our mission being in the same
location? If we stay here what can we do to make us
more accessible?
The meeting was called to order by Council Chair, Deb
Hovde at 10:55 a.m. Deb gave opening prayer.
Pastor Todd Nelsen, Miller Architects and Builders,
welcomed everyone and asked Scott Brusven to talk about the
history of Our Savior’s. Scott reviewed the journey of Our
Savior’s and the determination of this congregation to boldly
go forward.
Pastor Allyne said a prayer before straw hat poll was taken.
Poll given and results were:
Option 1: Leave things largely as they are: 6
Option 2: Address building code issues only: 7
Option 3: Move towards update of current building
including code updates and “visible” work: 24
Option 4: Explore feasibility of new building and new
location: 69
There were 3 ballots that were spoiled and not counted.
Todd invited Kathe Eldred to review the pros and cons sheet
the Facilities Team created that was given to each person in
attendance. There were options presented with advantages
and disadvantages for each given.
Todd addressed current building issues of asbestos, water
damage, etc. If we sell without asbestos removal we pass on
the problems to someone else and any buyer will most likely
reduce the offer based on problems that need to be fixed. So
it is not marketable as is with issues.
What do we do now?
Pastor Allyne made a motion to work with Kairos to obtain
a proposal for a feasibility study and to continue to think
and pray about the process at the same time. Seconded by
Scott Brusven. Discussion open on motion made. Edit:
“work to obtain proposal” made 9-19-14
Loren talked about the process of moving forward. Kairos
may be brought in to do a feasibility study. Cost for the study
is $9,000. This will be a three year pledge over a three year
appeal, so that new members will be targeted for the building
campaign, too.
Bishop Wohlrabe said that the next step isn’t binding. A
financial feasibility study needs to be done before further
conversation can be held.
Todd shared that he visited with Good Shepherd and the City
of Moorhead development and zoning departments.
Shelly Wambach mentioned the last capital campaign and
how difficult it was to do. Pastor Larry reminded everyone
that the last campaign was to pay for work already done; it
is always difficult to have a campaign for debt removal. This
campaign would be different. This is a campaign to raise
money BEFORE any work is done. Momentum is different.
The floor was opened for questions.
1. Visit with St. Francis to see what worked and didn’t
work for their move.
2. Where are we looking to relocate?
3. Need to visit with people who live around possible site
to inquire about sugar beet and land fill smells.
4. Current site is zoned for residential and multi dwelling
(institutional).
5. To build on the same site or across the street the cost is
about the same as building new. Figure $160-$200
per square foot for new construction. No land cost.
6. What is cost of new land? $50,000 - $100,000 per acre.
Specials depend on location of land and vary.
Becky gave a talk on our history and the issues with the
current location. Visibility is a major factor. People do not
know where we are. Our congregation is more than a
building. How do we serve north Moorhead? What is north
Moohead? Parts of the current building can be taken with to
the new location.
Motion carried. No nays.
Scott Brusven made a motion that we continue the current
site development/relocation schematic design process.
Seconded by Shelly Wambach. Motion carried. No nays.
Motion to adjourn made by Tom Houglum. Meeting
adjourned.
5
Miller Architects & Builders Study >>>
Youth & Family Discipleship Committee
Committee Members
Cherie Rusch, Melissa Pickering, Tasha
Haug, Wyatt Nelson, Traci Goble, and
Jessie Jensen.
Mission, Ministry & Facilities Needs Study
Summary of Recommendations for Our Savior’s Lutheran Church
January 12, 1014
parking lot entry. Other restrooms have not only
significant accessibility challenges, but are overdue for
modernization and makeover.
Fire Suppression System
Fire Suppression System is important to note; the
building is not currently protected by a fire sprinkler
system. Modifications to the building may trigger
remedying this deficiency; an inquiry to the local fire
official should make clear at what threshold of
improvements or expansion the retrofitting of the entire
facility with a sprinkler system would be required.
Water seepage issues in the basement
Our Savior’s is experiencing a significant issue of water
seeping into the basements south side. Further
investigation into tiling systems, exterior landscaping
grading, and water proofing is necessary to alleviate this
issue.
Examination of exterior east side ventilation and duct work
During Miller Architects and Builders facilities walk
through of the facilities, the Miller Architects and
Builders project manager noticed that the HVAC
ductwork on the south east side should be examined for
issues relating to pigeon droppings as it appears pigeons
are roosting on the ductwork.
Ministry Recommendations
I. Engage the congregation in a conversation of what
the congregation’s physical location means for the
mission and ministry of Our Savior’s Lutheran Church.
II. Develop a strategy for evangelism in North
Moorhead, which reaches beyond the Our Savior’s
neighborhood.
III. Enhance visibility of Our Savior’s Lutheran
Church’s mission and outreach in the community.
IV. Explore possible additions to the ministry staff of
Our Savior’s Lutheran Church.
V. As a family of faith, explore what it means to
anticipate – and successfully face – what many
churches have experienced: the “Mid-sized
Congregation Crisis.”
Facilities Recommendations
I. Deferred Maintenance or Code Compliance Issues
The building appears to be structurally sound with no
identifiable areas of concern or deficiency.
Aesthetically, the facility is well cared for, but for the
most part reflects relatively little updating over the
years since its construction. Sections of the building are
overdue for improvements.
ADA and accessibility compliance issues
Access to the west entrance to the facilities.
Access to the second floor education area and
balcony.
Access to the chancel in the sanctuary.
Restrooms
The only ADA compliant restrooms in the facility
are located on the first floor, near the north
Asbestos Abatement
Prior to any renovation or demolition, removal of
Regulated Asbestos Containing Materials would be
required to be abated by a state certified asbestos
abatement contractor if the planned renovation activities
will disturb these materials.
II. Improvements Not Requiring Structural Change
There are a number of systems and finish issues which could be
addressed to make a significant improvement in people’s
experience of the facility that don’t require major changes to the
building itself. These include:
Improved lighting fixtures and control system in the
sanctuary.
Re-install windows on the east side wall of the sanctuary.
6
Sunday School –Spark, a publication
of Augsburg Fortress, is the
curriculum that the Sunday School is
currently using. It is the sixth year that
Spark has been available, and the fifth
for Our Savior’s usage. We have been
using Spark in rotation format this year.
Classes and teachers remain the same,
but the curriculum changes each week
(one lesson per month). Spark is a
Sunday school faith formation program
designed to activate faith in children
ages 2 through grade 6. It's innovative,
intuitive, and designed to ease the
burden of planning and teacher
preparation for Christian Education
Directors and Sunday School teachers.
Spark rotation has given both teachers
and students the opportunity to learn
the same lesson for three to four
consecutive weeks, using various
learning techniques such as cooking,
art, video, science, Bible skills and
games, and many others. During the
Christmas and Easter seasons, we take
a break from the curriculum to practice
for the programs and give teachers a
chance to teach a Christmas/Easter
lesson. All Sunday School classes
provide special music during the
worship services throughout the year.
The last Sunday, Mother’s Day 2014,
the Sunday School kids provided
special music for worship. On
September 7, a celebration was planned
for the Sunday School kids of all ages,
and their parents. Inflatables, games,
face painting and popcorn were among
the many activities planned for the
kids. The preschool class had a short
orientation meeting on September 8 to
help them become acquainted with the
church and Sunday School. Kathe
Eldred, the Sunday School music
leader, has been a blessing to our
Sunday School program; Cathi Chial
has also been so faithful on the piano
for the Sunday School. On October 5,
eight third graders received their Holy
Bibles during the 10:30 worship service.
Once again this year, the NRSV Bible
from Spark was given to the kids
through donations from the Enervold
Bible Fund.
Current (January 2015) enrollment:
There are 51 students registered for the
3 year olds (preschool) through first
grade and 61 2nd through 6th graders.
Attendance is up from 2013-2014 by 23
students.
Mission/Stewardship - Sunday School
offerings continue to provide monthly
support ($30/month) to Waldo Boris
Tarqui Tellez, our World Vision child
from Bolivia. Periodically the Sunday
morning Sunday School offerings go to
the Good Samaritan Fund, Dorothy
Day Food Pantry, Churches United and
the YWCA. Collections of donated
clothes, food, and baby items are given
throughout the year as well. Through
the SouperBowl of Caring in February,
the youth of Our Savior’s collected
$305.63 for the Dorothy Day Food
Pantry. The Confirmation classes
collected 472 lbs. of nonperishable
items in early October that was donated
to the Dorothy Day Food Pantry.
Confirmation Ministry – On September
28, twelve 10th grade students met at
Our Savior’s for their Affirmation of
Baptism Retreat. Confirmands made
their sashes, discussed their Faith
Statements, went on a scavenger hunt
throughout the church, and explored
the Sacraments in depth. The students
affirmed their baptisms and confirmed
their Christian faith on October 12,
2014. 7th, 8th, and 9th graders, along
with six confirmation guides, and
Pastor Loren and Melissa Pickering as
21
large group presenters, met on
Wednesday evenings from 7:15 pm to
8:15 pm. Parents are required to
attend 10 sessions. During the 20142015 school year, Service and Learning
evenings have been added to the
calendar. There are six Wednesday
evenings that have or will involve
different activities for confirmation
students. Through December 2014, the
Service and Learning evenings have
included a neighborhood food
scavenger hunt, Melissa Nelson from
Wright Funeral Home, and Pastor Jerry
Protextor. There are currently (Jan. ‘15)
41 students enrolled in our
Confirmation program.
Vacation Bible School – Vacation
Bible School was held on August 11-12.
Blast Off!, a curriculum from Group
Publishing, was used. Blast Off! was a
two-day vacation Bible School
program. After two nights of fun and
adventure, the VBS kids sang in
worship on August 13. There were 20
kids registered for VBS. Ten youth and
adults helped with VBS.
Milestone Ministry – Milestone
Ministry is a vital ministry program at
Our Savior’s. We begin with the
Preschool Orientation (September), and
continue throughout their school years.
In September, the 4th grade Sunday
School students began their ministry as
Guardian Angels. They attended a class
about baptism and their responsibilities
as a Guardian Angel. They are asked
to help out at baptisms and pray for
“their” baptized child each day. First
Communion in the late winter marks
the 5th grade milestone, and the 3rd
graders received their Bibles in
October. The 7th, 8th and 9th graders
mark their milestones at their
Confirmation Retreats, and the 10th
graders with the Affirmation of
Baptism Service.
Miller Architects & Builders Study continued >>>
Committees and teams >>>
Social Justice Committee - continued
Helping them financially until they can
become independent. An advocacy group
from Minneapolis has taken their case, and
they are waiting for the results of their
appeal to be granted political asylum. In
the meantime they are both working hard
in school , perfecting their English and
doing very well. Mika has graduated from
high school, is employed at Macy’s and
recently passed her CNA exam. She is now
studying to pass her driver’s exam. Nathalie
is in her senior year at Fargo South High.
She is also employed at Macy’s. They enjoy
attending church here at Our Savior’s and
truly appreciate the help, love, and support
they have received from OSLC. Both girls
should be living independently and
supporting themselves within the year. It
has been rewarding work. We could not
have done it without the amazing support
and donations from all of you. Thank you.
expressing their thanks and gratitude often.
(for more information visit
[email protected] )
FM Sheltering Churches Project
The Social Justice Committee is an exciting, rewarding and fulfilling experience.
We always welcome new the third Tuesday of the month, immediately preceding
the council meeting. Please join us!
For the third year Social Justice committee
has helped organize a week of housing
homeless guests here at Our Savior’s.
During winter weather the area homeless
shelters often run out of room. The
sheltering churches volunteer to house the
“overflow”. This year we housed up to 23
men and women for seven nights, during
the week of November 9-16. Again, we
appreciated so much your gifts of time,
supplies, prayers and financial support.
And our homeless guests did as well,
Submitted by Denise Bakkum
What good is it, my brothers and sisters, if you say you have faith but do not have works? Can faith save you?
If a brother or sister is naked and lacks daily food, and one of you says to them, ‘Go in peace; keep warm and eat your fill’,
and yet you do not supply their bodily needs, what is the good of that? So faith by itself, if it has no works, is dead. James 2:14-17
serves Fargo and Moorhead, as well as surrounding rural
areas. Families are only eligible for four referrals in a 12
month period.
Thank you to everyone from Our Savior’s who has
contributed toward the Food Pantry with food and monetary
contributions, which are, in turn, distributed to these families
in need through the Food Pantry. When gas vouchers are
given (usually $15-20 each, depending on the current cost of
gas), a valid driver’s license for the person driving the vehicle
and proof of insurance on the vehicle being driven are
required. The New Life Center will accept referrals from us
for those in need of clothing and household supplies, with
no charge to us.
The Good Samaritan Fund of Our Savior's was established
nearly 30 years ago to help members and non-members in
need. It is completely funded by members, Our Savior’s
organizations, and others who contribute toward it through
memorials and other monetary gifts. In 2014 help was given
for gas vouchers, MAT bus passes, occasional bus or train
tickets for people trying to return to their homes in other
areas, co-payments for medical necessities, and many other
needs. Good Samaritan records are kept for all those
receiving vouchers/payments, with the limitation of people
being helped no more than three times in a 12 month period.
Help is given to those in need from the Good Samaritan Fund
on Mondays (except when the church is closed for holidays,
etc.) from 2:00-4:00 p.m. by the Good Samaritan team. The
pastor is available when needs arise during the week for Our
Savior's members.
Good Samaritan Fund receipts for 2014:
Referrals are made to the F-M Food Pantry in Fargo; referrals
must come from an agency or church. This Food Pantry
20
It should be noted that the development of the
recommended spaces will very likely require the
demolition of the original church building or expansion
into 13th St. N.
III. Suggested changes to the existing facility requiring
structural alteration
During the interviews and focus group discussions
two items of importance to Our Savior’s were often
mentioned. First, was the importance of uplifting and
meaningful worship to the congregation. Second, was
the importance of being able to gather with fellow
members of the congregation. The following
recommendations are intended to address these two
important aspects of Our Savior’s life together.
Good Samaritan Team
Good Samaritan Team for 2014: Nancy Anderson, & Gerri
Swanson, Linda Jones & Ken Adams, Dan & Faith Meurrens,
Norma Swanson, Bonnie Thom, Cheryl Zeh, & Pr. Loren
Mellum.
offices and restrooms. Ideally such a gathering space
would be at least 50% of the gross square footage of the
church sanctuary.
Renovation of the existing kitchen could result in new space
for other outreach ministries, additional education/
meeting/office spaces, or a combination of these.
Re-configure worship space.
Modern colors, finishes and floor coverings in the
entire building.
Window replacement wherever necessary
Improved interior signage.
Improved exterior signage.
Removal of large pine tree on northwest side of
building.
Modernize/update the kitchen and adjacent
storage.
Balance on hand January 1, 2014
$1,561.76
Contributions January 1 - December 31, 2014
$6,687.30
Total funds available in 2014
$8,249.06
Help given to those in need in 2014
$6,504.23
Balance on hand December 31, 2014
$1,744.83
Turn the sanctuary 90 degrees.
Renovate west entrance, narthex and Larsen
Lounge to improve traffic flow and create a
larger area for fellowship.
IV. New Spaces
Our Savior’s Lutheran Church explore, through the
architectural schematic design process, the addition of
a street level gathering and fellowship space.
Create a prominent main entrance to the church –
a functioning “front door” which also, ideally,
would feature a drive-under canopy.
Develop a new fellowship hall /multipurpose
space. This space could also make an excellent
alternative worship and/or worship overflow
site. With adjacent table/chair and equipment
storage.
Replace the current kitchen with a significantly
larger, new kitchen adjoining the new
fellowship hall. With adjacent kitchen storage
space.
Create a significantly larger narthex/gathering
space linking the sanctuary, fellowship hall,
7
Feasibility Study Question and Answer >>>
Why did we do a feasibility study?
The outcome of the study indicated that the congregation is not
ready for a large capital campaign to move or to do an equally large
scale project at the current location. Both projects could cost $3 to
$3.5 million dollars according to Miller Construction. The feasibility
study indicated that if the congregation was united and excited, we
could raise as much as $850,000, if the congregation fully
participated. This amount, even while utilizing the generous
financing options available through the Mission Investment Fund of
the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America, is short of where we
would currently need to be to do a large scale project. What we do
know is that congregations can accomplish great things together for
future ministry when the challenge is embraced. We’ve seen these
efforts in other congregations throughout the Fargo-Moorhead area
who are choosing to envision and embrace the future.
In recent years, Our Savior’s has been blessed by many partners
from the broader church. First, a group of congregations and leaders
in our region walked alongside an OSLC team in a process called
Re-Rooting in God’s Mission. Next, a team of congregational leaders
worked with Vibrant Faith Ministries on clarifying a greater sense of
vision, mission, and values to guide us. All of these conversations
led to a recommendation to facilitate listening sessions with Miller
Construction, a highly regarded architectural design and
construction company. In September and October of 2013, Rev.
Todd Nelsen and Rev. Richard Wehr facilitated nine focus groups,
21 individual interviews, and two town hall meetings. In these
listening sessions, members of Our Savior’s indicated many of their
hopes and dreams for ministry, which included changes in the
building.
Where do we go from here?
What did people hope for when consultants from Miller
interviewed them?
We continue to do the best ministry possible and be good stewards
of our building until other decisions are clear. In 2014 a new roof
was put on over the East Narthex, 82 brighter and more energy
efficient lights were replaced in the sanctuary, a significant pigeon
infestation on the east side roof was mitigated and continues to be
managed, and plumbing repairs continue to be addressed.
Currently, we know that windows need to be replaced, especially
those that are original to the 1957 building, and that annually there
are building repairs that arise that exceed the funds allocated in the
General Fund of the congregation. There are also more energy
efficient alternatives in the area of lighting. We continue to be the
people of God, praying for the Holy Spirit to lead, and imagine
present and future ministry together.
A common theme began to surface in the Miller conversations
related to the ministry of Our Savior’s and people’s hopes for the
building. Some of those hopes were a building that would offer a
more communal worship space, fellowship and gathering areas that
welcome new people and build relationships, full access for people
of all ages and physical abilities, a brighter, more energy efficient
facility, and significantly lowering our operating costs. In the
process, a variety of people who were interviewed raised the
question of location and visibility and how Our Savior’s could make
a greater impact for ongoing decades if the congregation and its
ministries were more publicly identifiable.
Are there things we can do in our current building?
What professional opinion did Miller Architects and
Construction Company offer our congregation following this
process?
Miller Construction has advised us that we can certainly do repairs,
updates, and finishing work to what currently exists. Moving
existing walls or changing configurations, including seating in the
sanctuary of the current building, would likely trigger building
codes which the congregation would need to accommodate. Local
building inspectors would be the better guide and judge of smaller
projects.
Miller works with congregations throughout the region remodeling
current buildings and building new mission centers. After hearing
the observations of all of those who participated, and after assessing
the current Our Savior’s facility, Miller asked us as a congregation to
consider how we would like to proceed. The professional opinion of
Miller’s was that updating and remodeling could likely equal the
cost of building a new building or even relocating. The costs of
asbestos abatement and mold removal, mechanical and electrical
upgrades, fire protection and sprinkling, and accessibility issues
could easily be $1.5 million or more. Miller raised the question of
what would further the mission and ministry for the future. New
remodeling, over and above code accommodations, which would
address many of the members of Our Savior’s interests
indicated in the listening sessions, would likely raise the total cost
of remodeling to $3 to $3.5 million. Miller asked us, as a
congregation, to discern what decisions made now, would lay a
foundation for the future generation.
What do I need to consider doing as a member of Our Savior’s
Lutheran Church?
Many people in listening sessions have hopes and dreams for Our
Savior’s. Members at Our Savior’s believe that faith formation, in an
uplifting, grace-filled community, matters. People also feel strongly
that the unconditional acceptance and compassion that exists at Our
Savior’s is an extraordinary quality that the Holy Spirit has created
in this faith community. What you need to do is pray and love the
present and the future ,as much or more than, the past. There is a
significant need for legacy gifts and for people to be champions for
the church they love and for future ministry.
What was the outcome of the feasibility study?
Committees and teams >>>
Social Justice Committee
Committee Members
Committee members: Denise Bakkum,
Chair; Jean Anderson, Paul Anderson,
Wendy Blue, Barb Bustamante, Marcie
Felix, Virginia Moses, Beth Olson, Jeanne
Rodriguez, Carol Peddycoart, Richard Rix,
and Andrea Keene.
The Social Justice Committee helps to
coordinate and promote education and
awareness for a wide range of mission
efforts. These include: Missionary for a
Day, Global Health Ministries (midwife/
AIDS kits), Hunger issues, Lutheran
Hunger Appeal, CROP Walk, Churches
United for the Homeless, Blood Drive, Food
Pantry, Thrivent Builds/Habitat for
Humanity, and Peoples Church in Bemidji.
We also maintain the pop machine in the
church basement.
Bulletin Board
An Our Savior’s Lutheran Church Social
Justice bulletin board is maintained by the
committee on the wall near Larsen Lounge
to educate our congregation about OSLC
and ELCA missions, provide the
congregation current mission news, and
promote our efforts.
Missionary for a Day
OSLC supports and maintains a relationship
with missionaries Rev. Philip and LouMarie Knutson in South Africa. The Social
Justice Committee maintains
correspondence with Rev. Knutson, and
promotes his work through the Missionary
for a Day fund at OSLC. We thank the
congregation for their support of this
important endeavor. Remember to honor/
memorialize your loved ones with a
contribution to the Missionary For a Day”
fund (MFAD). This year we were fortunate
to have a home visit from Rev. Philip. Our
Savior’s co-hosted a brunch for him at
Trinity Lutheran Church in Moorhead. (For
more information: ELCA South Africa
Packet: www.elca.org/countrypackets/
southafrica/desc.html.)
Hunger Issues
The Social Justice Committee deals with
hunger issues throughout the year. Thank
you to the congregation for your generous
support to feed the hungry in our
community. Every March we coordinate a
food drive for Minnesota Food Share
whereby donations are matched. (For more
information: ELCA World Hunger Appeal:
www.elca.org/hunger)
CROP Walk
The “new and improved” CROP Walk was
held this year, for the fifth year. The Social
Justice Committee organizes walkers and
donors at OSLC for the walk, and we also
donate money to offset expenses for the
walk. As a result, all proceeds go directly to
Church World Services. Seventy-five
percent of funds raised is used in CWS
projects around the world, and 25% of
funds raised is returned to the FM area
where it is divided among 6 organizations:
YWCA Shelter, CUFH, New Life Center,
Salvation Army, Dorothy Day House, and
FM Food pantry. The 2014 walk raised
$7033.00 This year marked the 30th
anniversary of the FM CROP Walk. During
this time over $635,000 has been raised for
hunger issues, The 2015 walk is scheduled
for Sunday, October 4, starting at 1 PM.
Blood Drive
(For more information: United Blood
Services: www.unitedbloodservices.org)
Brenda Moore, a highly respected regional fundraising specialist,
conducted the study. The study included 36 personal interviews,
31 paper survey responses, and 28 online surveys.
8
19
Churches United for the
Homeless
The Social Justice Committee works to
support CUFH, along with our
congregation’s representatives to
CUFH. Thank you to Our Savior’s
members for your continued support of
CUFH. (For more information:
www.churches-united.org)
Thrivent Builds/Habitat for
Humanity
Starting in 2007, we began one of our most
exciting ventures, joining forces with the
Thrivent Builds/Habitat for Humanity
program. This year we were fortunate to
have another Moorhead build. Our Savior’s
Social Justice Committee partnered with
Bethesda and St Mark’s to organize two
days of volunteer labor at the build site,
providing 10 workers and supplying lunch
one day and coffee break another day. With
the generous assistance of the OSLW
Endowment Fund, we arranged for a
$1000.00 financial donation as well.
Peoples Church in Bemidji
Beginning in 2004, OSLC has partnered
with Peoples Church in Bemidji, a largely
Native American church. Peoples Church is
a mission church of the ELCA and reaches
out to those who have no church home and
to those in need. Peoples Church can be
said to be living Jesus Christ’s instructions
as found in Matthew 25:31-46. (For more
information: www.peopleschurchelca.org)
Refugee Assistance
This year the Social Justice Committee
continued the task of assisting our two
young girls from Burundi who were
stranded at the homeless shelter. Many of
you have met Mika and Nathalie Nburayija.
We procured housing for them and are
Staff Leadership >>>
Pastor Jerry R . Protextor, Assisting Pastor
2014 was a year when I was blessed to be invited to serve at Our Savior’s Lutheran Church. When Pastor Loren and Becky
Cusey asked me to come for an interview, it was obvious that this was a place where I could reach out and bring Good News to
people, continuing a ministry I have been part of since 1967.
I am thankful for the opportunity to be invited into many homes. My commitment is to make 300 visits a year. What a joy I
have found in the stories that many people share. It is obvious that God’s Spirit has been at work, touching and changing the
lives of many people as they have been able to experience God’s love and grace.
Leading worship as a liturgist once a month and being able to proclaim God’s love from the pulpit at least one time a month,
has been a blessing to me. I hope it has been to the congregation, too. Jesus’ story continues to need telling.
Brenda Moore & Associates Feasibility Study Recommendations
RECOMMENDATIONS
c. Pursue the possibility of donated or bargain sale land.
Amy Bigot, ELCA Foundation gift planner, could
work with land owner(s) to explore options.
The results of the feasibility study suggest that the Our
Savior’s Lutheran Church is not positioned to conduct a capital
campaign for the proposed project at this time. I recommend
no more than one year’s concerted effort to attempt the
following:
1.
A special treat was working one Wednesday with the Confirmation students, mentors, and parents. Besides telling my own
story and hopefully planting a seed of encouragement to consider pastoral ministry as a future vocation, I was able to respond
to questions the students had posed to me.
d. Pursue partnerships or affiliations that reduce cost
and/or create auxiliary revenues (e.g. ELCA mission
development/redevelopment, on site day care, services to/through Churches United for the Homeless
or LSS Homeless Youth program)
Move the congregation from a pervasive “neutral” position to a broad base of ownership for the change that is
desired
This is page nine of a nine-page report.
The entire report is available upon request.
a. Focus on helping members clearly understand the
liabilities of the current facility, and all of the real costs
as well as opportunity costs associated with the
various options involved with staying in the present
facility and location. Work with member tradespeople
and physical plant stakeholders to help interpret the
facility’s deficits and costs.
Again, thank you for the opportunity to serve in and through Our Savior’s Lutheran Church in 2014. Thanks to Pastor
Loren, Sandy in the office, and Melissa, as they encourage me and give assistance when I need it. Also, I would be remiss if I
failed to thank Marlene, Vicki, and Linda for all the work they do putting a visitation schedule together which makes the use of
my time so much better.
b. Focus on the mission, vision, evangelism, outreach,
community service and stewardship aspects of a move
to/redevelopment in a new location and a new facility.
If the imagined move has the potential to bring transformation to the congregation and the community,
there needs to be more education with regard to the
mission development/redevelopment process and its
typical outcomes. Work with Pastor Mellum, Pastor
Keith Zeh, and outreach/mission committee members
to help interpret opportunities.
I look forward to continuing ministry here, as together we seek to discern God’s will for the future of ministry through this
congregation. God has given us great opportunities. Now it is up to us, working together, to accomplish the work that is at
hand.
Pastor Jerry R. Protextor
Assisting Pastor
2.
Work to close the $1million+ gap in your funding capacity
and subsequently build confidence in the project’s viability by tenaciously pursuing any/all of the following:
a. Secure the intentions of the lead givers – significantly
increased intentions from congregational leaders as
well as intentions from other members of the
congregation who could possibly consider large gifts
of accumulated assets. Work with Amy Bigot, ELCA
Foundation gift planner in NW MN Synod (no-cost
service), to cultivate and plan these larger gifts.
b. Identify/secure several profitable options for the sale of
the current property. Work with members who are
engaged with the City of Moorhead, affordable housing (e.g. Bremer Foundation grants), or other
developers. Work with members to limit excavation
costs.
18
9
2014 Congregational Statistics
Pastor’s Letter - continued
Membership
Baptized
Membership as of December 31, 2013
Members received during 2014
By baptism
By affirmation of faith
By transfer
By other
1618
Confirmed
1083
+ 21
+ 30
+ 14
Baptized youth confirmed in 2014
+ 16
Members removed during 2013
By transfer
By death
By inactivity, request, etc.
- 7
- 21
- 6
- 21
Membership as of December 31, 2014
1641
Average Weekly
Worship Attendance in 2014
267
(2013 average)
1085
(295)
Pastoral Acts
Baptisms: 21
Weddings: 7
Funerals: 21
21
8
20
Children
Member
Members
0
6
1
Adults
Non-members
Non-member
In Memory
Frances Aabye
Paul Asplin
Vivian Asplin-Johnson
Phyllis Baker
Esther Beck
Vivian Conant
Inger Cooper
Maxine Fish
Lester Johnson
Brian Lien
Leona Mae Lien
Robert Luckow
Steven J. Olson
Carole Rasmussen
Alfred Reiniets
William Schultz
Bessie Sorby
Joyce Steen
Sanford Steen
Virginia Swenson
Mildred Thompson
same way as they once did. We accomplish a great deal through less informal networking. However, there is a need for focus
on our teams and to bring onboard many of our newest members who are waiting to engage more deeply in the life of Our
Savior’s. Please consider serving in areas like Worship, Outreach, Hospitality, Property, Stewardship/Finance, Ministries to/
with Children and Youth, Justice Ministries, and all the many areas that help us live vibrantly as a church. We can do more
together than alone!
I am grateful that on a very part-time basis, Pr. Jerry Protextor joined Our Savior’s last May. Honestly, the many funerals
(20+ a year) and the shape of the pastoral ministry (Re-rooting in God’s Mission) at Our Savior’s had left me quite tired at
moments. Jerry’s presence has offered me some space to be. Amid all of this, an incredible church staff and council are faithful
and fun partners in ministry. We give thanks for Ray Maas coming on board as custodian last February and for the longevity of
Melissa Pickering as Director of Children, Youth, and Family ministry. Longevity in this area is a blessing many congregations
long for and few secure. In addition there are many other long-standing staff members who bless us. Thank you to Cherly Zeh,
Mary Maynard, Marcy Harvala, Amanda Eickhoff, and Christy Eickhoff. And how about Sandy Kenz in the office, what a fit!
Diaconal intern, Andrea Keene, Choir Director, Frode Gundersen, and Wedding Coordinator Sarah Kim are absolute manna
from heaven. A huge shout out goes to the faithfulness of the sound technician coordinators Stan Walker and Ryan Haug. We
also say farewell and thank you to Chad Zitzow who helped around the building for many, many years.
At the close of 2014, I completed six years on the Board of Directors of Church United for the Homeless. What an eye opener to
see the needs that exist in the FM Area and surrounding region. Likely I would not have served on a board like this ministry,
but because of your historic commitment as a congregation to Churches United and to your focus on ministries of compassion,
it seemed natural to agree when I was asked to do so. When ordained into the Lutheran ministry your congregation and pastor
like myself is asked to “speak publicly to the world in solidarity with the poor and oppressed, calling for justice and
proclaiming God's love for the world.” I have experienced this commitment in a new way serving in this ministry. Of course,
it is part of the baptismal liturgy and the rite of confirmation for us all. May doing justice always stir us to be less cozy and
cloistered Christians. I continue to serve on the Church Council of the ELCA as a representative from the Northwestern
Minnesota Synod. In addition, this May I will wrap up my service as a First Call Theological Education cohort facilitator.
Finally, to my wife, Karen, I say thank you for being a partner along this journey and for my children. We celebrate 25 years of
marriage and ministry this year. There are only a handful of people who know what it is like to be a pastor’s spouse. We
certainly remember the first parsonage we lived in beginning full-time ministry in 1991 and those early years. Right now we
are looking forward to all that is ahead and that both of our vocations would be to God’s glory. One saint at Our Savior’s told
me this past year, “Every pot needs a ladle, pastor!” I hope I have been this kind of pastor for you. Stirring things enough that
you wonder together what God is cooking, what God is making, what God is doing, what God longs to do. We are key
ingredients.
Bless you all in 2015. May God be especially with you in your own personal journeys of faith and life and with this very
blessed congregation of Our Savior’s Lutheran Church, who are a part of the risen life of Jesus Christ. I have had so many
personal moments with many of you in times of joy, in times of sorrow, and in conversations, that I know you are close to
God’s heart and you are a beloved community. Now in year seven as your pastor, enough water has passed under the bridge
to ask forgiveness where I have fallen short, to give thanks for what has gone well, and to trust that God will provide and
surprise Our Savior’s with the resources necessary, and the imagination needed, for the next steps and for the next decades.
In love and gratitude,
Pastor Loren Mellum
10
17
Staff Leadership >>>
Pastor Loren D. Mellum
2014 Profit & Loss - Operating and 2015 Proposed Budget
Always Learning, Always Made New
Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here!”
(2 Corinthians 5:17)
“
Our Saviors Lutheran Church
Profit and Loss-Operating
Recently I found myself trailing behind a “Student Driver” as he turned by Moorhead Center Mall and passed along the
river and Melberg’s Bookstore. At first I was frustrated, because the car in front of me was going too slow, until I realized in
that vehicle was a young person learning to drive. At that point it made me smile, reflect, and appreciate the young driver
and the person in the passenger seat helping him learn the art of driving. Think of al the roads he will travel. Wow!
Since that time I’ve thought to myself: “This is the Church today!” We are learners. Many of our congregations gripped so
tightly by the cultural norms of past eras of Christendom are learning the fine art of maneuvering in a new time. Maybe
churches need a little signage: “Student Driver”. We are always being introduced again and again to Jesus and what it
means to be a disciple in our current place and time. It is an era where we consider what it means to be apostles, a
community sent by Jesus into the world.
In church some people want others around them to go faster, others want to go slower, and like a teenager honestly told me
recently, “I don’t know if I am even ready to drive”. In every decade, in every context, we are learning the fine art of
maneuvering in a new time. As the old hymn goes,
“The church of Christ, in ev'ry age
beset by change, but Spirit-led,
must claim and test its heritage
and keep on rising from the dead.”
January-December 2014
Total YTD
2014
Budget 2014
Variance
Budget 2015
Income
2,955
4,500
(1,545)
3,000
40,943
18,045
22,898
24,916
Education/Sunday School/VBS
2,234
2,500
(266)
2,300
Memorials
5,215
2,000
3,215
4,000
Building Usage
Total Designated Income
516
500
16
0
312,648
317,000
(4,352)
313,000
14,391
19,725
(5,334)
14,500
167
0
167
0
Total Income
$379,069
$364,270
$14,799
$361,716
Gross Profit
$379,069
$364,270
$14,799
$361,716
Total Benevolence
18,630
19,110
480
18,630
Total Building, Property, & Church Home
59,067
56,250
(2,817)
60,631
Total Children, Youth, & Family Ministry
2,848
3,500
652
4,100
100
100
0
100
0
1,600
1,600
1,300
749
2,925
2,176
1,450
Miscellaneous
Pledges/Envelopes
Special Offerings
Wednesday Night Meal
Expenses
We don’t want this to be true for our churches, but it is. It is challenging. It is unsettling. It can be exciting. It does call for
patience. It offers great freedom. We are learners. Isn’t it something that God gives us the keys to the church? Of course,
God retains the title and ownership. The church belongs to God, but for a time we drive into the reign of God and integrate
God’s realm into every move we make and every turn we take.
So, a new year! Here comes 2015. We put this baby in drive and see where it goes; maybe you can even see what it will do
and where God is leading. We are called to have this church mostly in drive, a little in reverse at times, but mostly looking
forward; wisely varying the speed at times; glancing back as necessary and aware of the roads we travel and the
environment we are in. We drive forward into God’s future. Think about it. God’s mission!
A quick glance at 2014 and I am thankful that deep listening occurred at Our Savior’s. What a privilege it is to be asked a
question and to be listened to about something we care about. Both Miller Construction and Brenda Moore and Associates
listened closely and in turn they helped us to listen to God and each other. To be honest, I was a bit envious of all of you.
As pastor and family we watched you being interviewed and I thought how awesome it must be for these people to hold the
keys. Even if things go slow, how awesome it is that these people drive this ministry, along with the Holy Spirit seated next
to them. Thank you for praying and talking out loud about the congregation that is your spiritual home. Listening can lead
to the next steps, whatever and whenever they may be.
Conference Dues
Total Education
Ministry Areas
Total Ministry Areas
Total Office and Administration
Total Personnel & Benefits
26,140
29,290
3,150
26,702
274,521
286,310
11,789
284,361
571
(571)
200
6,950
948
6,661
$388,627
$406,035
$17,408
$404,135
($9,558)
($9,558)
($41,765)
($41,765)
$32,207
$32,207
($42,419)
($42,419)
Special Events
6,002
Total Worship, Music, & Arts
Total Expenses
Net Operating Income
Net Income
I would anticipate that this coming year we will continue to practice the faith well in worship, in caring ministries, in
outreach, in justice ministries, and in children, youth, and family ministries. We will give until we live. Benevolent and
generous hearts go hand-in-hand with discipleship. If possible we also will emphasize the renewal of many teams/
committees. Much rests in your hands as a community. Many of our teams have aged out as the lives of their participants
have changed or at times like other churches we experience that people simply do not make or find the time to serve in the
16
11
2014 Balance Sheet
Soul Script of Congregation >>>
Thriving congregations need clarity about four things: Their PURPOSE
Our COVENANT
(mission statement), their DIRECTION (vision and values statements), their
As members of this faith Community, we commit to:
PATH (roadmap for living into God’s preferred future), and the
INDIVIDUAL CONTRIBUTIONS team members and congregational
members are willing to make. Congregations can create a “Soul Script” that
lists their purpose, direction and pathways, resulting in a newfound clarity

Affirm, encourage, support, pray for, and bless one another

Appreciate and affirm each other’s gifts, backgrounds, and
perspectives

Communicate with each other in honest, open and respectful
ways.

Commit to ongoing spiritual growth.

Honor each other’s individual pace and working style, and
offer grace to one another.

Be open to new ways of seeing and doing things.

Nurture a culture of transparency.

We affirm that the world we interact with daily is our mission
field.
about what needs to be discussed and acted upon.
Living LUTHERAN
We are a community of Christians that seek to live out our faith in
daily life. We gather in worship around Word and Sacrament
ministry where we are called by God to be disciples of Jesus Christ.
When we worship together we are washed in the grace of God, fed
by the Spirit, and sent to walk in faith, hope, and love. We are part
of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America and share
supportive connections with the larger mission of the ELCA. We
are a church where relationships matter, where people care and
faith in Jesus Christ grows.
Our VISION
Our Savior’s is a vibrant, Spirit-led community that welcomes all
ages and invites people from all walks of life to follow Jesus.
Our KEY MESSAGES
 Practicing our faith is something we do every day, everywhere.
Our MISSION

Our Savior’s purpose is to introduce Jesus, interpret the Christian
life, invite transformation, and to invest in God’s dream for the
world.
We’re about building authentic relationships, not just being
friendly.

We connect church to home.

Everybody has a faith story and a gift to share.

What is God up to in your life and in the life of others?
Our VALUES

Courageous Risk-Taking - we share a daring and confident
faith to go where God leads us.

Uplifting, Grace-filled Atmosphere - we strengthen faith
through messages of grace, music that invites us to sing, and
prayers that focus on the needs of God’s world.

Faith Formation - we are a community where the Spirit never
rests and people of all ages engage the Bible and discover what
it means to be a Christian.

Invitation and Welcome - we reach out and personally invite
and welcome others to experience the blessing of belonging to
a community of faith.

12
Our Goals
1.
2.
3.
Compassionate Service - we live out our faith by going to
those places in the world where God suffers as we serve and
bless others.
15
2014 Benevolence
2014 OSLW Report
OUR SAVIORS LUTHERAN WOMEN
Treasurer Report
For the Twelve Months Ending August 31, 2014
Year to
Date
Actual
2014 Benevolence
Year to
Date
Budget
REVENUES
Activities & Programs
Offerings
WELCA Thankoffering
Sunday Coffee
Funerals
Fundraising
Rentals
Serving Units
Weddings
TOTAL REVENUES
EXPENSES
Activities & Programs
WELCA (1/2 Prior Year Offering)
WELCA (Thankoffering)
Cluster 6 Offering (Spring)
Cluster 6 Bible Retreat (June)
Cluster 6 Offering (Fall)
NW MN SWO Conv Delegate/Expense
(Sept)
NW MN SWO Offering (September)
Triennial Convention (July)
Triennial Yearly Offering (July)
Coffee
Funerals
Fundraising
Kitchen Equipment/Supplies
Churches United
Dorothy Day House
Food Pantry (March)
Gladys Ray Shelter
Hospice of the Red River Valley
Larson Molldrem Scholarship
Lost & Found Ministries
Lutheran Campus Ministries
MAASAI Scholarship Fund
Missionary for a Day
New Life Center
New Life Center - unbudgeted
Oak Grove Lutheran High School
OSLC Good Samaritan Fund
OSLC Good Samaritan Fund - unbudgeted
257.72
246.70
0.00
1,363.52
4,072.00
3,030.73
50.00
1,290.00
0.00
325.00
600.00
200.00
1,500.00
3,200.00
3,070.00
120.00
2,150.00
70.00
10,310.67
11,235.00
OSLC Quilters
OSLC Youth
OSLC Youth Mission
Pathways
Recovery Worship
Women in Need
Women in Need - unbudgeted
YWCA Shelter
Miscellaneous
Officers Expense
Stationary & Stamps
Total Expenses
701.34
194.63
0.00
50.00
0.00
50.00
1225.00
400.00
50.00
50.00
50.00
50.00
160.00
100.00
2,750.00
300.00
1,245.02
1,559.44
177.81
605.95
150.00
100.00
100.00
50.00
100.00
100.00
100.00
250.00
100.00
100.00
100.00
154.29
50.00
250.00
378.50
300.00
100.00
1000.00
100.00
1200.00
2500.00
750.00
635.00
150.00
100.00
100.00
50.00
100.00
100.00
100.00
250.00
100.00
100.00
100.00
0.00
50.00
250.00
0.00
100.00
100.00
100.00
50.00
100.00
823.00
227.00
100.00
110.25
0.00
49.00
100.00
100.00
100.00
50.00
100.00
600.00
0.00
100.00
50.00
50.00
25.00
11,736.23
11,235.00
OUR SAVIORS LUTHERAN WOMEN
Balance Sheet
August 31, 2014
Total
$50
$3,053
$359
$286
$667
$275
$1,000
$5,608
$1,305
$100
$871
$500
$433
$126
$843
$242
$13,000
$500
$860
$20
$1,183
$4,405
Augusta Victoria Hospital
Churches United for Homeless
India Companion Synod
Dorothy Day House
ELCA Always Being Made New
ELCA Malaria
Global Mission Phil Knutson
Good Samaritan
Habitat for Humanity
Hospice of the Red River Valley
Lend a Hand
Lutheran Social Services
Living Grace Lutheran Church
Lost and Found Ministry
MSUM Campus Ministry
Mens Ministry
NWMN Synod
Oak Grove
Pathways Bible Camp
Refugee Fund
Robert Asp Backpack Program
World Hunger
Total
14
CURRENT ASSETS
Checking - State Bank
Savings - Kitchen Remodeling
$ 1,704.11
4,028.48
TOTAL CURRENT ASSETS
$ 5,732.59
$35,686
13