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CNH Board of Directors Meeting – December 9,, 2017
CALIFORNIA-NEVADA-HAWAII DISTRICT OF THE LUTHERAN CHURCH-MISSOURI SYNOD
BOARD OF DIRECTORS MEETING December 9, 2017
CALL TO ORDER
Rev. Dr. Thomas Zelt called the December 9th, 2017 session of the CNH Board of Directors to order at 9:00am.
1. BOARD ROLL CALL √ = present * = voting member District Officers: √ President: Rev. Dr. Robert Newton
√ 1st Vice President: Rev. Dr. Thomas Zelt*
√ Secretary: Rev. John Standley
√ Treasurer: Donna Herzog
Regional Vice-Presidents: √ Rev. Jim Beyer *(Northern)
√ Rev. Aaron Smith *(Pacific)
√ Rev. Clarence Eisberg * (Southern)
√ Rev. Jedidiah Maschke *(Nevada)
√ Rev. Mitchell Gowen *(Hawaii)
Regional Directors: √ Mrs. Marilyn Maxner * (Southern)
Ms. Laurie Hertzberg * (Northern)
√ Mr. Jim Hillmann * (Pacific)
√ Mr. Tom Brannan * (Nevada)
√ Ms. Dinnie Kysar* (Hawaii)
Commissioned Minister Director: √ Mr. Mike Mancini*
District Staff Rev. Ted Hartman - Mission Counselor √ Rev. Michael Lange - Director for Mission Development
Mr. Joel Koerschen - Director Of Educational Services
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CNH Board of Directors Meeting – December 9,, 2017
2. OPENING DEVOTION
Chairman Zelt offered the opening devotion. Rev. Zelt spoke briefly based on John 1:14 – The Word became flesh – We have seen his glory. Tom noted that the word glory can be translated as greatness or weightiness. God’s greatness was shown both in the manger and on the cross. The devotion was closed with the singing of “What Child is This” using an arrangement from Prince of Peace- Fremont.
3. OPENING COMMENTS
Chairman Zelt reviewed the agenda for today’s meeting. The agenda was accepted by consensus of the Board. BOARD DIALOG
4. CEF – LCEF REPORT
LCEF representative Bill Swift spoke concerning the high cost of housing in the District in relation to attracting pastoral candidates. In many areas of the District the cost of housing is beyond a pastor’s ability to pay. Pastors have generally been encouraged to buy so they could accrue equity. Equity sharing was used for a long time but doesn’t work as well anymore due to the high cost of housing.
Bill offered several options that might be helpful in dealing with this problem. One suggestion was a modified Parsonage model. In this, the congregation would sell a portion of the parsonage to the pastor with the congregation carrying the mortgage. When the pastor leaves, he shares the appreciation with the congregation. Bill submitted a full written report which includes some good information. That report is included in the addendum to these minutes.
Mr. Swift went on to discuss the distribution of approximately 1.2 million dollars that was left with CEF after the CEF/LCEF merger. These were funds that CEF had on hand to guarantee outstanding loans. A wide range of congregations and agencies received grants to further Mission activities within the District. There is another fund of approximately 1.4 million dollars that went to LCEF which is earmarked specifically for Mission loans. These loans are required to be guaranteed by the District which has limited the amount available. Details are being worked on to assist in opening the remainder of that fund.
Bill was asked by President Newton to talk with the Board concerning Vineyard of Faith – Windsor CA. LCEF took over the mortgage on the property as part of the merger between CEF and LCEF. LCEF does not normally like to hold property. Negotiations are currently in progress to resolve the issue so that the property might remain within the District. The property is valued by LCEF at 1.8 million dollars. Mr. Swift offered several options for a possible buyout of the mortgage. Considerable discussion followed.
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CNH Board of Directors Meeting – December 9,, 2017
A motion was made to have the District buy the Windsor property. The motion was seconded.
Discussion followed concerning the importance of retaining a footprint in that area as well as the need for deferred maintenance and the possibility of working with a Property Management firm.
A motion was made to have the Chair establish a Task Force to explore the possibility of purchasing the property. The motion was seconded and approved.
Note: As this new motion was presented as a privileged motion it took precedent over the previous motion effectively ending debate on the previous motion.
In response to the creation of the Task Force it was noted that there is approximately $140,000.00 remaining in the CEF carryover fund. With the hope that these funds might be used as seed money for the purchase, the Chair asked that the Secretary of the Board to send a request to the CEF Board asking them to consider delaying any further distribution of the remaining funds to give the District Board time to make a decision regarding the purchase of the property.
BUSINESS – MONITORING
COMMITTEE REPORTS
5. MISSION AGENCY
Assistant to the President for Mission Advancement, Rev. Mike Lange began his report by stating that the Agency will need to take less from reserves than originally budgeted. He noted that $11,000.00 was received by way of “Giving Tuesday” gifts. There have been a total of $135,000 in gifts and grants to the mission agency through November 30.
There has been a lot of activity regarding Mission work in the District. The following are just a sample of some of the work that has been going on:
o Continued work with Doua and Sue Xiong and the replant team for new work among 1.5 and 2nd generation Hmong in Fresno in concert with 5/2 newtwork and coaching (1, 2,4)
o Assisted Dawit Bokre and congregation in counsel and coaching for replanting work in Hawyward in concert with 5/2 network and coaching(1, 2,4)
o Counseled with Waikaloa, St. Matthew’s in Kauaii and Clarence Delude regarding their replant and/or new starts on the 3 islands.
o Ongoing Coaching for Moises Morales in his work in San Pablo in Rollingwood and providing for his assistance towards immigration. Moises will lose his location at Rollingwood. We are working together to identify another location. (1,4)
o Follow up end of the year visits with all of our supported ministries, extended time spent with…
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CNH Board of Directors Meeting – December 9,, 2017
David Chan and Faith Lutheran, Addis Kidan and the new English service plant (Tesfai Tesema & Mulunhe
Taye), Jose Cervantes and work and partnership blossoming at Trinity San Jose, Trinity Watsonville and Juan Vallejo (new Spanish language only worship) Counsel with Trinidad Casteneda and leaders at St. John regarding ministry
and continuity at San Juan Valle de Fe. Doua Xiong, Hmong Outreach (Merced, Fresno, San Joaquin Valley (1,a,b,d,e,f, h & 4)
o Worked with Travis Wright and Barron Fong on their CMC vicarage plans for new starts.
o Mike and staff also led the effort for the Fire Relief Funds at the direction and assistance of President Newton. To date approximately $227,000 has been contributed. $20,000 was immediately distributed to affected congregations. The remainder will be distributed to congregations and individuals who are in need of these funds for rebuilding or conducting follow-up ministries to the fire victims. 49 people have lost homes and/or business in our LCMS congregations.
These notes were taken from Rev. Lange’s full Mission Agency report which is included in the Addendum to these minutes.
6. FINANCE COMMITTEE
District Treasurer Donna Herzog reported that one Certificate of Deposit has matured and was rolled over. She also noted that District investments are doing well.
MANAGEMENT REPORTS
7. VISION STATEMENT FOR CONVENTION
Chairman Zelt reported that at the meeting held on Friday, the Presidium discussed at length the need to present a vision statement for the District that expressed our zeal for mission work. Included in this statement should be wording that expresses the need to promote education as well as the importance of attracting mission minded candidates to our congregations. The idea of using the existing expertise of our people in the field rather than hiring staff was also a topic for discussion. President Newton added that he feels that the President / 1st Vice President Forums will be important venues for getting the vison across.
Chairman Zelt stated that he will take the lead in putting together some different ways in which the vision for Missional excellence can best be presented. Jedidiah Maschke, Aaron Smith and Jim Hillman agreed to work with Tom on this. They will also work together to develop questions to be used in the President / 1st Vice President Forums.
8. FORUM FOR DISTRICT PRESIDENT and 1st VICE PRESIDENT
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CNH Board of Directors Meeting – December 9,, 2017
The Committee on Structure had suggested that a Forum for candidates for District President and 1st Vice President be held before the election, possibly on the Thursday evening before the convention. President Newton said that he feels strongly that it should be held further in advance of the convention. That idea was well received. Bob stated that he would work with the District office to establish a date and will look for facilities that have the ability to live stream the event.
9. ADMINISTRATION REPORT
President Newton’s full report can be found in the Addendum attached to these minutes.
The President spent several days before Thanksgiving traveling between meetings, including Council of Presidents (COP), the Annual Leadership Conference of the Lutheran Church Extension Fund (LCEF), and the Lutheran Educators Conference which was jointly hosted by CNH and our sister district, the Pacific Southwest. Bob noted that the keynote presenter at the Lutheran Educators Conference was particularly inspiring to him. The speaker was Darrell Scott, the father of Rachel Scott who was the first of eleven high school students murdered in the shootings at Columbine in 1989. Mr. Scott was inspired by Rachel’s Christ centered faith and love for others to organize “Rachel’s Challenge”. Rachel’s Challenge has reached over 27 million young people with the message of compassion and reconciliation since its inception.
Bob also spoke to the need to work on continuing to distribute the gifts that have been received by the District to assist in the relief efforts for the recent loss caused by the fires in and around Santa Rosa. To date there has been over $230,000.00 donated to the District. Funds have been distributed based on a percentage of loss. Money has been sent to congregations and also directly to families at the recommendation of their congregation’s leaders. Rev. Jim Beyer stated that his congregation has followed similar guidelines. He also offered insight as to how people are dealing with the loss as well as what other agencies are doing in support.
The following is taken from the President’s Administrative Report which is included in the addendum to these minutes.
a) Most heavily hit were the communities that make up Circuit 14 (including Lake, Mendocino, Napa, and Sonoma Counties). Nine of the congregations of Circuit 14 reported the following: i) St. Mark, Santa Rosa 30 members lost homes, including 1 staff member ii) St. John’s Napa 8 family members lost homes including 2 staff members iii) St. Luke, Santa Rosa 6 members lost homes including 1 staff member iv) Faith, Sonoma 1 member family lost their home and business v) Vineyard of Faith, Windsor 1 member family lost their home vi) Good Shepherd, Healdsburg 1 member has lost their home vii) Mt. Olive, Sebastopol 1 member has lost their home viii) Grace, Cloverdale Several members evacuated; no confirmed losses ix) St. John, Willits Several members evacuated in the Redwood Valley fire. Town was
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CNH Board of Directors Meeting – December 9,, 2017
isolated because of lack of electricity and communication. x) Faith, Ukiah Reports no loss of life, some members structures loss. No homes a total
loss. xi) Grace, Grass Valley (Circuit 19) also reported 1 family that lost their home to fires in
their area.
10. FINANCE REPORT
District Treasurer Donna Herzog offered an overview of the finances year to date. As of October 31st, total revenue including General and Mission is $1,573,676. Expenses for that same period were $1,775,409 leaving a deficit of $201,733. The loss attributed to the District side was $69,479. The Mission Agency showed a loss at the end of October of $132,253. The Mission Property Funds Balance is $350,980.
Discussion followed concerning property and funds that have recently received from Trinity Lutheran Church – Wasco and Christ Lutheran Church – Mt. Shasta. It was noted that the Finance office has been taking care of the work that is involved in receiving these gifts which often includes the interim care and eventual disposition of property. Aaron Smith asked if these duties should be handled differently rather than just assuming that the Finance office will take care of it. Chairman Zelt advised that the possibility of turning this kind of work over to a holding company is still in the works.
BUSINESS MATTERS
11. REMOVAL OF OFFSET BENEFITS
In 2014 Concordia Plan Services removed the requirement to pay the 3% offset benefit between Full basis and Regular retirement plans. Currently there is only one District staff member who qualifies for Full Basis retirement. The Finance office advises that this staff person plans to retire in 2018. The Finance office is requesting a decision from the Board for new hires.
A motion was made and seconded to not offer “Offset Benefits” to new hires starting January 1, 2018 and to discontinue this benefit for all in 2019. The motion was approved.
12. HOUSING ALLOWANCES
The Finance office submitted housing allowance amounts for:
Theodore Hartman Joel Koerschen Michael Lange Robert Newton Tesema Tesfai
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CNH Board of Directors Meeting – December 9,, 2017
A motion was made and seconded to approve the housing allowances for these District staff members. The motion was approved. Detailed information regarding these allowances is on file in the District office.
13. 2018 BUDGET
President Newton reviewed the Budget Summary as presented by the Finance office. He noted that some line items, especially those concerning staff is difficult to project because of the upcoming change in administration as well as the planned retirement of key executives and support staff.
As presented, the budget includes a 5% increase in Mission support from District income through the first 6 months of 2018, increasing by another 5% through the end of 2018. This would increase the current percentage of 25% to 30% and then 35%.
The proposed budget will result in a overall loss of $194,852.00. This deficit will be offset by a planned release of $68,792.00 from the Mission agency Property fund and $126,060.00 from the Board Designated Fund.
Discussion continued concerning budgeting in relation to staffing and how that will work as a new president takes office in July of 2018.
A motion was made and seconded to approve the budget as presented. After further discussion, the motion was approved.
14. CONVENTION RESOLUTIONS
At the meeting of the Presidium, President Newton was asked to craft a resolution of concern asking to overturn Synod Convention Resolution 12-4 regarding Bylaw 7.1.2 which deals with changes made in regards to ecclesiastical supervision. A preliminary draft of the resolution was offered to the Board and will be passed on to the appropriate floor committee.
In another matter, the Board asked Regional Vice Presidents Mitch Gowen and Clarence Eisberg to work on a resolution concerning the reversal of the Synod Conventions actions concerning Licensed Lay Deacons.
15. BOARD SELF – EVALUATION
Rev. Zelt asked the members of the Board if there was anything that could have made the meeting better. No comments were forthcoming.
16. CONSENT AGENDA
Future Meeting Dates, Changes in the District as well as the September Meeting Minutes are included in the Consent Agenda.
The Chair asked for approval of the Consent Agenda, which was given by consensus. Items from the Consent Agenda can be found in the Addendum attached to these minutes.
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CNH Board of Directors Meeting – December 9,, 2017
17. CLOSING PRAYER AND ADJOURNMENT
1st Vice President Zelt thanked the Board members for their work. Regional VP Aaron Smith offered the closing prayer. The meeting was adjourned by the Chair at 2:30 p.m.
Respectfully Submitted
Rev. John M. Standley CNH Dist. Secretary
ADDENDUM December 9, 2017 Meeting
California – Nevada – Hawaii District Lutheran Church – Missouri Synod
CONTENTS
Future Meeting Dates
Changes in the District
President’s Administrative Report
Mission Agency Report – Lange
Pastor’s Housing Options - Swift
Page 1 of 3
FUTURE MEETING DATES
=
Mar 10, 2018 Mar.9, 2019 Mar. 14, 2020
June 9, 2018 June 8, 2019 June 13, 2020
Sept.7-8, 2018 Sept 6-7, 2019 Sept. 11-12, 2020
Dec.8, 2018 Dec. 7, 2019 Dec. 5, 2020
=
CHANGES WITHIN THE DISTRICT
CALLS ACCEPTED:
REV. CURTIS BINZ, candidate status, to English District, West Portal, San Francisco, CA, as
senior pastor.
REV. LONNIE FELCHER, Vineyard of Faith, Windsor, CA, to Peace McCook, NE, as pastor.
REV. THOMAS HURLEY, Associate Pastor, Zion, San Francisco, CA, to Lutheran Church of
the Resurrection, San Rafael, CA, as pastor.
REV. ALEX LISSOW, Our Savior/First, Chester/Greenville, CA to Zion, Ashton, ID, as pastor.
REV. DENNIS WENHOLZ, Lutheran Senior Services, St. Louis, MO, to Peace, Fresno, CA, as
senior pastor.
BRENDA TRUNKHILL, Our Redeemer, Hutchinson, KS, to Prince of Peace, Fremont, CA, as
teacher.
CALLS EXTENDED:
REV. ANDREW KOSCHMANN, Our Savior, Carol Stream, IL, by Holy Cross, Los Gatos, CA,
as pastor.
CALLS DECLINED:
REV. GRAYSON ALBERS, Immanuel, Temple, TX, to Trinity, Gardnerville, NV, as pastor
REV. GRAYSON ALBERS, Immanuel, Temple, TX, to First, Concord, CA, as pastor.
REV. CURTIS BINZ, candidate status, to Cordova, Rancho Cordova, CA, as pastor.
REV. CRAIS DONOFRIO, Missouri District, to St. James/Saints John and Luke,
Newman/Valley Home, CA, as pastor.
Page 2 of 3
REV. JERRALD LAWSON, Senior Pastor, Good Shepherd, North Ft. Meyers, FL, to Zion,
North Highlands, CA.
REV. RONALD MILLARD, JR., Immanuel, St. Charles, MO, to Zion, North Highlands, CA, as
pastor.
REV. SHAWN WEISPFENNIG, associate pastor, St. John, Yankton, SD, to Bethany, Vacaville,
CA, as associate pastor.
CHANGES IN STATUS:
REV. RUCLARE PAULING, Our Faith, Davis, CA, to pastor emeritus.
REV. DAVID REESE, pastor emeritus, to the Texas District as pastor emeritus.
REV. DR. RICHARD THOMPSON, pastor emeritus, Southern District to CNH District as
pastor emeritus.
REV. REXFORD UMBENHAUR, candidate status, Pacific Southwest District, to CNH District.
JILL ALLEN, commissioned minister, voluntary resignation from the Roster of Ministers of
Religion – Commissioned.
PLACEMENT:
MICHAEL DUBĚ, Specific Ministry Pastor, Elk Grove, CA
DEATHS:
REV. ARTHUR PETROWSKY, Woodland, CA, pastor emeritus.
REV. EDWIN SOHN, San Leandro, CA, pastor emeritus.
ROBERT MARTY, commissioned minister.
PASTORAL VACANCIES:
Redeemer, ATASCADERO, CA
Holy Cross, ATWATER, CA
Bethany, BAKERSFIELD, CA
Bethlehem, BERKELEY, CA
Our Saviour’s, CARUTHERS, CA
Page 3 of 3
Messiah, CITRUS HEIGHTS, CA
St. John, CLEARLAKE, CA
Shepherd of the Sierra, COARSEGOLD, CA
First, CONCORD, CA
Our Saviour, DELANO, CA
Grace, EL CERRITO, CA
Trinity, GARDNERVILLE, NV
Grace, GRIDLEY, CA
Our Redeemer, HONOLULU, HI
Our Savior, LIVERMORE, CA
Holy Cross, LOS GATOS, CA
St. James/ Saints John and Luke, NEWMAN/ VALLEY HOME, CA
Zion, NORTH HIGHLANDS, CA
Cordova, RANCHO CORDOVA, CA
Resurrection, SAN RAFAEL, CA
Canaan, SAN FRANCISCO, CA
Mt. Olive, SEBASTOPOL, CA
Peace, TAFT, CA
Bethany, VACAVILLE, CA (Associate Pastor)
Waikoloa, WAIKOLOA, HI
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Board of Directors
Administration Report
December 9, 2017
Dear brothers and sisters of the Board,
The writing of this report falls on the heels of a ten day trip that included meeting with the
Council of Presidents (COP) and the annual leadership conference of the Lutheran Church
Extension Fund (LCEF), and ending with the Lutheran Educators Conference jointly hosted by
CNH and our sister district, the Pacific Southwest. With those meetings came many powerful
take aways. The first came from our Synodical President as he described the “state of the synod”
and laid out his strategic vision for our future. Our LCMS has been steadily decreasing since its
membership high in the late 1960s and early 1970s. We dropped over 10% in membership
between 2000 and 2010. We must brace ourselves for an additional 500,000 member loss over
the next 10 to 15 years. We must not lose heart in the face of such realities, but instead remain
steadfast and immovable in our Lutheran faith and evangelical resolve to proclaim the pure
Gospel in season and out of season. At the same time Synod must act wisely, consolidating and
focusing our resources in populations where we have traditionally been the most fruitful—
ministry among descendants of northern Europeans.
The LCEF Leadership Conference hosted Dave Dravecky as one of its keynote speakers. A
former pitcher for the SF Giants, Dave is best known for his miraculous comeback to the mound
after battling cancer in his left arm. Within a few weeks of his return to pitching, the cancer
returned, eventually causing him to lose both his arm and shoulder. Dravecky’s talk touched me
deeply as he spoke humbly with profound gratitude of the many blessings the Lord has bestowed
on him. While the privilege of playing professional baseball looms brightly in his mind, (just
behind his marriage to Jan and their family), the gift of God’s grace in our Lord outshines
everything. What most grabbed me, was Dravecky’s unceasing thankfulness for the grace of
God and quiet confidence in His redeeming work in a world broken by sin.
The Lutheran Educator Conference brought together over 900 educators in our combined
PSW/CNH early childhood, elementary, and high school ministries. While down from former
years due to location in Phoenix that number is impressive. More impressive to me, however,
was witnessing the faith, dedication, and sacrifice of the teachers—ministers of the Gospel—a
large percentage being young men and women. “There’s the church touching the world,” I
thought.
The keynote presenter, Mr. Darrell Scott, testified of the impact all over the world of the
incredible ministry, inspired by one young person--his daughter, Rachel. Rachel was the first of
eleven high school students murdered in the shootings at Columbine in 1989. Motivated by her
Christ centered faith, she believed that she would make a loving difference in the lives of others
and dedicated her life to that purpose. Her focus was serving the marginalized in her school. “I
want to reach out to those with special needs because they are often overlooked. I want to reach
out to those who are new in school because they don’t have any friends yet. And I want to reach
out to those who are picked on or put down by others.” Rachel practiced those words while alive
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on earth, and the organization founded by her father following her death, Rachel’s Challenge has
reached over 27 million young people with the message of compassion and reconciliation.
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My take aways from those ten days speak for themselves. The collapse of Christendom,
particularly among populations descended from northern Europeans, presents profound
challenges to God’s people and our ministry of proclaiming the Gospel. That said, while we,
soberly acknowledge and assess the significant losses in our Lutheran (and larger Christian)
church population, we do not allow them to define us. Our identity is in the crucified and risen
Savior, whose focus and purpose in this world is “seeking and saving the lost.” The increasingly
nonChristian world in which we live is exactly the world He came to serve and to save. There
should be no surprises here. He instructed us to walk by faith alone in His Word and promises
and not by the sight of men, their analyses and predictions.
The church body that raised me faithfully in Christ and impressed upon me a missionary’s heart
may be fading (or aging) away little by little. At the same time the Lord Jesus is raising up new
saints, young saints, saints of various languages and ethnicities eager to give their lives for the
salvation of others. That’s exciting! They want to make a difference in the world. And they
desire to be molded by the Lord in order to do so. As we gather as a Board of Directors this
December we keep in mind the mission opportunities these brothers and sisters present. These
opportunities also pose positive challenges as to how we think and organize strategically as we
move as a district in the mission of our Lord. We have much to discuss.
I am preparing this report in the afterglow of “Thanksgiving Day”. Of the many gifts for which
to give thanks, your partnership in the Gospel ranks near the top of my list. I thank you and our
Lord for you and your service as leaders in the district. Your Christ-centered hearts and your
dedication to serve continue to bring great joy and encouragement to me. I am particularly
appreciative of the work you are putting into sharpening the leadership role the BOD plays in the
district, especially as we move toward a new triennium.
1. Update on the NorCal fires:
a. Flames extinguished, smoke cleared, yet the devastation to several communities due to
the northern California wildfires in early October remains and will so for years to come.
This natural disaster also prompted an incredible outpouring of human compassion
toward friends and neighbors and witness of the personal presence of a tender and loving
God in the midst of tragedy. CNH congregations and individuals have been generously
responding with contributions of financial and other resources to assist the fire victims.
LCMS Disaster Response and well as the Lutheran Foundation of St. Louis (a nonprofit
formed with the proceeds from the sale of the Lutheran Medical Center in St. Louis)
contributed generously. These resources are being put to use directly into the several
communities through the LCMS congregations present in them. Most heavily hit were
the communities that make up Circuit 14 (including Lake, Mendocino, Napa, and
Sonoma Counties). Nine of the congregations of Circuit 14 reported the following:
i. St. Mark, Santa Rosa 30 members lost homes, including 1 staff member
ii. St. John’s Napa 8 family members lost homes including 2 staff members
iii. St. Luke, Santa Rosa 6 members lost homes including 1 staff member
iv. Faith, Sonoma 1 member family lost their home and business
v. Vineyard of Faith, Windsor 1 member family lost their home
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vi. Good Shepherd, Healdsburg 1 member has lost their home
vii. Mt. Olive, Sebastopol 1 member has lost their home
viii. Grace, Cloverdale Several members evacuated; no confirmed losses
ix. St. John, Willits Several members evacuated in the Redwood Valley fire. Town was
isolated because of lack of electricity and communication.
x. Faith, Ukiah Reports no loss of life, some members structures loss. No homes a total
loss.
xi. Grace, Grass Valley (Circuit 19) also reported 1 family that lost their home to fires in
their area.
b. The greatest loss of life and structures was in the Santa Rosa area. While Napa Valley
was also hard hit, the fire was largely contained to the ridges rather than burning directly
in the city as it did in Santa Rosa. 42 people are presently confirmed dead from the
fires. 8400 structures have now been confirmed as destroyed, an acreage larger than the
city of San Francisco has burned.
c. To date @ $227,000 has been contributed. $20,000 was immediately distributed to
affected congregations. The remainder will be distributed to congregations and
individuals who are in need of these funds for rebuilding or conducting follow-up
ministries to the fire victims.
d. More details are available on the CNH website.
e. Special thanks go out to all of the pastors and lay leaders of these several congregation
who have continued to bring Christ centered consolation and encouragement to the
members of their congregations and their communities. The lion share of the actual
ministry is being carried out through their parishes. St. Mark, Santa Rosa, having been
the congregation most profoundly impacted by the fires has volunteered to provide local
logistics and coordination for receiving requests for material assistance. Thank you
Pastor Beyer for your leadership in this effort. Special thanks go out to Pastor Phil Zabell
our CNH Disaster Reponse Coordinator as well as Mike Lange, Glenna Sanlis, and
Denise Lo of CNH staff for their leadership in receiving and sending fire relief funds
where needed.
2. Our work together as district, the following stand out:
a. Nine new teachers attended the new workers orientation hosted at the District Ministry
Center October 1-2. Once again the event received very positive and appreciative
reviews.
b. Round two of Sacramento Regional Ministry workshop was held October 9, hosted by St.
Matthew in Rocklin with 20 plus in attendance. The meeting addressed congregational
needs, mission and ministry plans, and exploration of underserved communities.
c. Our Pastors Conference was held October 10-11 in Fairfield, CA with over 120 in
attendance. The presenter was Professor Scott Stiegemeyer from Concordia University,
Irvine. Topics included Ministry challenges in the digital age and Ministry among the
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LGBTQ community. I was impressed by the pastoral spirit by the presenter and also the
brothers as we discussed critical and difficult topics pertinent to our post-Christendom
arena.
d. Triggered by the NorCal fires CNH Phil Zabell led a workshop on October 21 designed
to train and certify LCMS responders to community disasters. St. Mark, Santa Rosa
hosted the all day event. Over 80 men and women participated in the training.
e. Following the disaster response training, St. Mark hosted a second workshop focused on
grief care led by Dr. Hal Draeger our CNH director of Ministerial Health and Wellness.
It was well received by the several members of St. Mark as well as other church members
in attendance.
f. CNH teamed up with PSW and NOW to continue our post-seminary training process for
new pastoral graduates. The program runs for two years, beginning with a tri-district
retreat (this year held October 25-27 in Livermore). We had 26 first-call pastors in
attendance.
g. 80+ of our CNH educators attended the annual educator’s conference held jointly again
this year with PSW in Phoenix (November 19-21). This is the third year in a row that
PSW and CNH have partnered for this conference. The positive response suggests that
we continue to host joint conferences in the future.
h. Jen De La Motte (CNH) and leaders from the NOW and PSD are planning a Tri-District
DCE retreat prior to the Best Practices conference in Phoenix. Featured speakers will be
Bill Karpenko and Matt Popovits. Nine CNH DCEs are slated to attend.
i. Next year’s Mission Conference is planned for March 17, 2018 under the theme:
“Disciple making people.” Featured presenters include Greg Finke: Dwelling 1:14; John
Richter: Chief Leadership Officer for Clifton Larson Allen wealth management, a
national accounting and wealth management firm); Dominic Rivkin of LINC Los
Angeles; Aaron Putnam of LINC Bay Area; Dust Kunkel, NOW District staff; and
Leann Luchinger and Heather Davis, authors of Sola!: What are we fighting for?
j. The CNH District Convention is set for May 11-12, 2018 in Sacramento. We gather
around the theme, “Hearts Burning, with Christ for the world.” It is a shorter convention
by half a day and filled with more business, including the election of a new president.
Vice-President Mueller will personally attend our convention, serving as our proclaimer
for the Friday morning opening service. Dr. Scott Murray, Vice-President of the Western
Region of the LCMS will also be in attendance.
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3. Report on Outcome Policies. The following offers highlights of the quarter. OUTCOME # 1. The CNH District consists of pastors and specific or site-specific leaders who are engaged in the mission of Christ and are equipped to lead it.
a. Resources are identified that will continue to produce and improve these leaders. b. Personal contact is used to invite and challenge these leaders. c. Funds are available and distributed to enable this outcome. d. Transforming opportunities are made available. e. Regular effort is made to identify pastors and leaders who have demonstrated
missional commitment and recommend them to congregations and ministries as they search for new staff.
f. There is a culture of expected continuing education. g. Leaders from within the community are being identified and developed for specific
or site-specific ministry. h. The practice of leader accountability and openness is widespread. i. Leaders are encouraged and assisted in identifying and reaching underserved
communities. Outcome 1.a
• See March 2017 for the most current list. Outcome 1.b Personal contact was made with each of the new seminary graduates and pastors received through colloquy to enlist them in our MAP (Ministry Applied Practice) training in late October. MAP is a mission leadership training program for new pastors in the CNH, PSW, and NOW Districts. CNH hosts the annual training immersion. We had 100% participation in the training event. All were most appreciative and found both the training event and the program very helpful. Outcome 1.c
The LCEF has granted to CNH again this year in the amount of $58,000+. The majority of the funds will once again be dedicated to ongoing mission leadership training.
The LCEF also generously granted the NOW District a $120,000 kaleidoscope fund request to help fund two years (2018-2019) of the MAP training for new seminary districts. The MAP program is a joint venture between the three west coast districts.
Outcome 1.d
• The third of five immersion events for the PLI D2MC (Discipleship to Missional Community) training took place in Phoenix in mid October. The participating teams continue their discipleship training through weekly huddle gatherings through on-line meetings. CNH District will host the fourth immersion event in the Spring.
• Several of the 2017 SOYL summer training participants chose to live together and continue their leadership/discipleship training through Linc Bay Area. A number are seriously exploring God’s call on their lives for “full-time” ministry and missionary service.
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• 1-2 Dwelling 1:14 events in the Bay Area (Jan & March) are scheduled for Santa Rosa and
Santa Clara
• Multicultural Roundtable 2018 (Jan- Feb.)
• Missions Conference scheduled for March 2018
• Churches Planting Churches scheduled for (April 2018)
Outcome 1.e
• Mike just returned from a “recruitment” trip to Concordia St. Louis as part of our intention to identify mission minded pastoral candidates. He made personal contacts with 28 seminarians.
• Bethany, Vacaville and Holy Cross, Los Gatos have extended calls to mission minded pastors. First Concord, Zion, North Highlands, and Trinity, Gardnerville have requested additional names for their call lists.
• OF NOTE: As mentioned in my last Administrative Report to the BOD, we are experiencing increasing challenge in providing mission minded pastors for congregations in the CNH. That challenge will increase as we continue to anticipate small graduating classes from the seminaries. The total of candidates from both seminaries to be placed in the Spring hovers around 80.
Outcome 1.g
• Eight of the nine young leaders who participated in the SOYL summer internship program remain in the Bay Area to continue additional training and mission ministries.
Outcome 1.i.
• Round two of Sacramento Regional Ministry workshop was held October 9, hosted by St.
Matthew in Rocklin with 20 plus in attendance. The meeting addressed congregational
needs, mission and ministry plans, and exploration of underserved communities.
• The eight SOYL participants continue being mentored by Aaron Putnam and others in intentionally reaching out to underserved populations.
OUTCOME # 2. The CNH District has a growing number of congregational leaders engaged in the mission of Christ and well-equipped to lead it.
a. Resources are identified that will continue to produce and improve these leaders. b. Congregation leaders are encouraged to place a high value on mission when calling
new staff. c. Funds are available and distributed to enable this outcome. d. Exposure to transforming opportunities are identified and made available (and
used).
• The metrics for Outcome #2 are basically covered under specific metrics in Outcome #1.
OUTCOME # 3. Basic congregational and school support services are provided in an efficient and cost-effective way, not necessarily by staff.
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a. The needs are identified b. People and other resources are identified that can be used to address these needs. c. Training is provided to meet those needs. d. Collaboration between congregations and schools is fostered and enabled.
• I have asked Ted Hartman to conduct an “audit” and “self-evaluation” by each of the
district’s congregations for use by the next District President and Board of Directors.
Ted’s plan is to contact by e-mail, phone, and for some, in person, every congregation in
the District in order to have a conversation about their status as a congregation. This would
be a self-inventory of how things are going; the blessings and challenges; as well as areas
where they may be able to share something that they are doing well with others. The results
of this survey would be available digitally to the Board of Directors by their June meeting.
The hope is that it would prove helpful to the next CNH President in his endeavor to know
the congregations of the district.
OUTCOME # 4. There is new funding for the support of our shared mission.
• The goal for 2017 is $265,000 and an increase to 35 congregations visited; 30 congregations engaged as regular donors to the mission agency; and 95 individuals visited and 50 total engaged as regular mission donors.
• The total new funding for Missions for YTD November 3, 2017 is just over $135,000. Mike anticipates the total to around $160,000 at years end.
• The District Mission Agency launched a first time ever “Giving Tuesday effort and
together with Matching Funds received $11,072.00. Most importantly this effort opened
doors to 18 new donors as well as several established ones and gave us the opportunity to
engage in a month long PR campaign which helped to heighten the awareness of the
Mission Agency.
• Two one day training sessions were held for Mission Advocates and follow up phone
coaching sessions in this quarter.
• The Advancement Staff responsible for $13,000 of actual gifts from June to November 30.
OUTCOME #5. A high percentage of financial resources of the district are allocated to in-the-field ministries and the giftedness and expertise of individual leaders throughout the district are used to accomplish these outcomes.
• The 2018 Budget reflects a five percent increase of direct gifts received from CNH congregations to be used for direct mission work bringing the total to 30% during the first six months of 2018 and a ten percent increase for the second six months. The total allocation is 35% by years end. The goal has been to reach at least 50% of congregational donations being dedicated to mission outreach. It is very possible that a 40% goal could be reached by budget year 2019.
4. Business office: Presented to the Board for discussion and approval is a
recommended budget for 2018. Denise and staff are to be commended for their efforts in drafting a budget that attempts to allocate more real dollars for in the field mission work, especially in the midst of decreasing contributions from CNH congregations.
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5. Discussion Items
a. Deadline for publishing slates for District President and First Vice-President. b. Various overtures from the BOD for the 2018 District Convention.
6. Action Items
a. 2018 Budget
b. Housing Allowances for called workers
7. Compliance Issues
a. The president is not aware of any policies with which he is not in compliance. CHANGES WITHIN THE DISTRICT
CALLS ACCEPTED:
REV. CURTIS BINZ, candidate status, to English District, West Portal, San Francisco, CA, as
senior pastor.
REV. LONNIE FELCHER, Vineyard of Faith, Windsor, CA, to Peace McCook, NE, as pastor.
REV. THOMAS HURLEY, Associate Pastor, Zion, San Francisco, CA, to Lutheran Church of
the Resurrection, San Rafael, CA, as pastor.
REV. ALEX LISSOW, Our Savior/First, Chester/Greenville, CA to Zion, Ashton, ID, as pastor.
REV. DENNIS WENHOLZ, Lutheran Senior Services, St. Louis, MO, to Peace, Fresno, CA, as
senior pastor.
BRENDA TRUNKHILL, Our Redeemer, Hutchinson, KS, to Prince of Peace, Fremont, CA, as
teacher.
CALLS EXTENDED:
REV. ANDREW KOSCHMANN, Our Savior, Carol Stream, IL, by Holy Cross, Los Gatos, CA,
as pastor.
CALLS DECLINED:
REV. GRAYSON ALBERS, Immanuel, Temple, TX, to Trinity, Gardnerville, NV, as pastor
REV. GRAYSON ALBERS, Immanuel, Temple, TX, to First, Concord, CA, as pastor.
REV. CURTIS BINZ, candidate status, to Cordova, Rancho Cordova, CA, as pastor.
REV. CRAIS DONOFRIO, Missouri District, to St. James/Saints John and Luke,
Newman/Valley Home, CA, as pastor.
REV. JERRALD LAWSON, Senior Pastor, Good Shepherd, North Ft. Meyers, FL, to Zion,
North Highlands, CA.
REV. RONALD MILLARD, JR., Immanuel, St. Charles, MO, to Zion, North Highlands, CA, as
pastor.
REV. SHAWN WEISPFENNIG, associate pastor, St. John, Yankton, SD, to Bethany, Vacaville,
CA, as associate pastor.
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CHANGES IN STATUS:
REV. RUCLARE PAULING, Our Faith, Davis, CA, to pastor emeritus.
REV. DAVID REESE, pastor emeritus, to the Texas District as pastor emeritus.
REV. DR. RICHARD THOMPSON, pastor emeritus, Southern District to CNH District as
pastor emeritus.
REV. REXFORD UMBENHAUR, candidate status, Pacific Southwest District, to CNH District.
JILL ALLEN, commissioned minister, voluntary resignation from the Roster of Ministers of
Religion – Commissioned.
PLACEMENT:
MICHAEL DUBĚ, Specific Ministry Pastor, Elk Grove, CA
DEATHS:
REV. ARTHUR PETROWSKY, Woodland, CA, pastor emeritus.
REV. EDWIN SOHN, San Leandro, CA, pastor emeritus.
ROBERT MARTY, commissioned minister.
PASTORAL VACANCIES:
Redeemer, ATASCADERO, CA
Holy Cross, ATWATER, CA
Bethany, BAKERSFIELD, CA
Bethlehem, BERKELEY, CA
Our Saviour’s, CARUTHERS, CA
Messiah, CITRUS HEIGHTS, CA
St. John, CLEARLAKE, CA
Shepherd of the Sierra, COARSEGOLD, CA
First, CONCORD, CA
Our Saviour, DELANO, CA
Grace, EL CERRITO, CA
Trinity, GARDNERVILLE, NV
Grace, GRIDLEY, CA
Our Redeemer, HONOLULU, HI
Our Savior, LIVERMORE, CA
Holy Cross, LOS GATOS, CA
St. James/ Saints John and Luke, NEWMAN/ VALLEY HOME, CA
Zion, NORTH HIGHLANDS, CA
Cordova, RANCHO CORDOVA, CA
Resurrection, SAN RAFAEL, CA
Canaan, SAN FRANCISCO, CA
Mt. Olive, SEBASTOPOL, CA
Peace, TAFT, CA
Bethany, VACAVILLE, CA (Associate Pastor)
Waikoloa, WAIKOLOA, HI
Mike Lange – Assistant to the President Mission Advancement December 7, 2017
The following report is prepared primarily for the Mission Agency but will also be utilized for the CNH Board of Directors. The format used allows you to track with my job description – based on BOD outcomes and upon District President responsibilities and, (for ease of use) with the CNH District BOD Outcomes as listed at the bottom of this report in italics.
1. Numbers of outcomes are notated for ease of identification. 2. This report covers primarily activities that began, happened or were completed from Sept 05, 2017 – December 1, 2017 3. Although this is never a complete communication of activities, it hits the highlights.
Personal notes:
I am Praising God for his faithfulness in my life and the lives of those living and working around me. It is a pleasure to watch one’s adult children wrestle through and begin to gain forward traction in their lives as adults. This has involved difficult choices, changes in occupation, saying “no” to opportunities presented and in other circumstances being free to say “yes.”
Son Christopher and new wife Jo (Saleska) are hitting their stride as a married couple and a couple finally living in the same city and home together.
Abby, Paige and Matthew are camping out in the same apartment together in Seattle with two golden retrievers. All four children have different jobs than they did in June and are “finding their feet” as participants in their communities, churches and as supportive friends and family members.
While all is not perfect, it is in development. There is an open line of communication, growth in personal responsibilities and a broadening experience that will only lead to a greater trust in their Savior. Those open lines of communication are a blessing to me as I hear them speak into my own life and future.
I am finding it is not only wise but expedient to take counsel from one’s wife and children. The past two months have brought some unexpected challenges personally and physically. Thankfully, both my cataract surgery and oral surgery have gone well. A stress test, I was forced into along the way showed a healthy and vigorous heart. The 60,000 mile check-up went well. Primary Responsibilities
Facilitates an advancement team, raising awareness and resourcing future missionary efforts
o Norm Brauer, Gloria and Ed Radmore, Glenna Sanlis and Doug Benton have been participants
in our advancement team efforts this quarter. We launched a first time ever “Giving Tuesday
effort and together with Matching Funds it netted $11,072.00. Most importantantly this effort opened doors to 13 new donors as well as several established ones and gave us the opportunity to engage in a month long PR campaign which helped to heighten the awareness of the Mission Agency.
o Two one day training sessions held for Mission Advocates and follow up phone coaching sessions.
o Advancement Staff responsible for $13,000 of actual gifts from June to November 30. Our advancement staff has helped to open the doors working with me for a total of $135,000 of gifts and grants to the mission agency through November 30. We estimate this number to be $160,000 by the end of the year. Although this number is far behind the $267,000 estimated for 2017, we will complete the year below the estimated draw from the Property release fund by controlling expenses. (limiting the advancement staff expense and limiting other expenses on unutilized grant dollars, minimizing training expenses and committee travel.
o Mike Lange and staff also led the effort for the Fire Relief Funds at the direction and assistance of President Newton. To date @ $227,000 has been contributed. $20,000 was immediately distributed to affected congregations. The remainder will be distributed to congregations and
individuals who are in need of these funds for rebuilding or conducting follow-up ministries to the fire victims. We count 49 people who lost homes and/or business in our LCMS congregations.
o these activities all are representative of Board objective #4
… recruits and advises present and future church planting, (New start)
o Continued work with Doua and Sue Xiong and the replant team for new work among 1.5 and 2nd generation Hmong in Fresno in concert with 5/2 newtwork and coaching (1, 2,4)
o Assisted Dawit Bokre and congregation in counsel and coaching for replanting work in Hawyward in concert with 5/2 network and coaching(1, 2,4)
o Counseled with Waikaloa, St. Matthew’s in Kauaii and Clarence Delude regarding their replant
and/or new starts on the 3 islands. o Ongoing Coaching for Moises Morales in his work in San Pablo in Rollingwood and providing for
his assistance towards immigration. Moises will lose his location at Rollingwood. We are working together to identify another location. (1,4)
o Follow up end of the year visits with all of our supported ministries, extended time spent with…
David Chan and Faith Lutheran, Addis Kidan and the new English service plant (Tesfai Tesema & Mulunhe Taye), Jose Cervantes and work and partnership blossoming at Trinity San Jose, Trinity Watsonville and Juan Vallejo (new Spanish language only worship) Counsel with Trinidad Casteneda and leaders at St. John regarding ministry and
continuity at San Juan Valle de Fe. Doua Xiong, Hmong Outreach (Merced, Fresno, San Joaquin Valley (1,a,b,d,e,f, h & 4)
o Worked with Travis Wright and Barron Fong on their CMC vicarage plans for new starts. (1, 2, 4)
… identify and recruit mission leaders and develops a pool of key missionary candidates …. o Continued Conversation with Eli Jimenez, (Wasco) regarding possible Hispanic ministry start
utilizing the translation and assistance of Trini Casteneda. Facilitated “test experience” in Arvin during Pastor Casteneda’s absence. (1,2)
o Visitation to Concordia Seminary St. Louis with PSD and NOW Districts (Contact with 28 seminarians.(1, 2, 4)
o Worked with SOYL fall and winter participants regarding their ongoing interest in full-time ministry.(2, a & d: 4,5)
o Continue conversations with Jim Fennacy in Fresno and Sean Jones in Yuba City and the seminary representatives for SMP admission. (1,2)
…, communicates missionary traction through story, …
o Published two new In Missions and three new Prayer newsletters during this fall quarter. o Next year’s conference: March 17, 2018 date (tentative theme: “Disciple making people”
(1,2,3,5) Keynote speakers (Greg Finke: Dwelling 114 & John Richter: Chief Leadership Officer
for Clifton Larson Allen wealth management)
Others: Dominic Rivkin, Aaron Putnam, Dust Kunkel, Leann Luchinger, Heather Davis, Others to be named.
o Giving Tuesday satisfied the need for an online campaign and engaged 13 previously unidentified donors. Four communication pieces in the month prior and 6 on the day of the campaign were produced and published. (4)
o A new mission thank-you video was produced and distributed via video and distributed December 1, 2017. Available via facebook and on our District website. 1,2,4)
o Facilitate the publicity on Facebook and Twitter of happenings around our District in Mission in our congregations and oversee the publication of the weekly “In Touch” (1,2,3,4,5)
… with Young People in Mission action team building a young missionary training pipeline
o Working with DCE group to give counsel, aid, and support. Identified and supported new leaders of DCE group. (Sina Williams, Sara Agee, Jennifer DeLa Motte. (2)
o Together with the co-leadership of Jen De La Motte and the NOW and PSD Youth leaders, planned for a Tri-District DCE retreat prior to the Best Practices conference in Phoenix.(2)
Featured speakers will be Bill Karpenko and Matt Popovits. (9 CNH DCE’s slated to attend.)
o Meeting ongoing with Paul Lauaki, Aaron Putnam and William Finau to strategize the addition of specific disciple-making aspects into the curriculum offered in the summer and winter sessions of SOYL (School of Young leaders, (2)
Pursues a path of missiological and theological education that will support the work of starting and
continuing the work of the Mission Agency in the CNH … ( 1. A. & f.)
o Completed the Mission Applied Project Classwork as of October 1. o Registered for Independent Study course on the Doctrine of Vocation and its Application to
Disciple Making. o Will be part of a coaching cohort January through May to receive specific mentoring from David
Kim on disciple-making technique coaching.
Provides and resources funding plans and disbursement for the …
o Completed visits and communication for all of our funded grant ministries; (1,2,4)
o Oversaw 11 plus Mission mini-grants for the year (2 more pending) – (5)
o Facilitated the annual Reformation offering appeal (5) o Managed the disubursement of special requests for mission educational support, youth
leadership development and MTC tuition (LLD’s) support. (5)
Shared Responsibilities … leading by example intercessory prayer for Mission leaders, education, and advancement
o Monthly Mission Prayer Advocate sessions held o (17 presently trained and engaged, 1 pending) o Monthly Prayer Newsletter published o (affects 1,2,3,4,5)
…, execution, and review of mission education for ALL THE BAPTIZED, … o Catalyst Disciples 2nd edition held in September 2017 o Cooperating with Tri-District DCE leaders, (Dave Rueter and Bill Fossum for future DCE
enrichment at BPM 2018 (engaged Jen De La Motte, Turlock DCE to represent CNH) o Ongoing coaching relationship with three non-ordained leaders for the purpose of multiplicative
disciple making. (2a,d; 3 c) o Churches Planting Churches Seminar postponed until spring of 2018
Other Upcoming (1,2,3,4,5)
1-2 Dwelling 114 events in the Bay Area (Jan & March) Santa Rosa and Santa Clara
Multicultural Roundtable 2018 (Jan- Feb.)
Missions Conference (March 17, 2018
Churches Planting Churches (April 2018)
Coaching Cohort with David Kim on Disciple making 6 months, twice monthly
… and identifies a mission education track in which to develop leaders … (1,2,5) o Continue collaboration as part of SOYL leadership team. o Intentional interaction with LINC international director Dominic Rivkin and Dust Kunkel NOW to
work on revamping of EIIT and CHS programs as well as development and utilization of our MTC resource.
o Ongoing interaction and engagement with CMC director Glenn Fluegge.
o Collaborate in development of LINC Bible Institute, sites, resources, direction, etc.
… in the reallocation of District dollars for the sake of recruiting and developing leaders … o Eli Jimenez development identification in the San Joaquin valley. o Other: SMP candidates, (Jim Fennacy & Sean Jones) o Planning for future SOYL endeavors (5)
Other Supporting responsibilities (as directed)
Assists District President in supervision of District interests as directed o Oversaw the fundraising and communication for CNH Disaster Relief o Provided worship leadership stability together with Ted Hartmann as regular preacher and
worship leader for Our Savior Livermore (no more than 2 times a month.)
Provides coaching and mentoring for our professional and lay missionary leaders
o See above – specific work with Pastor Felcher (Windsor leaders); Mike Franckowiack,
St. John’s Bakersfield, leaders and pastors, St. Paul Merced (pastors and leaders),
Teams with other staff for support of our licensed lay deacons and new pastors and teachers (MAP, mission schools, etc.)
o Participated in the fall MAP meetings
o Working alongside present LLD’s to facilitate transition to SMP or future ministry opportunities
Provides support to our DCEs as needed and serves as the President’s lead staff assigned to Young
People in Mission o Attends monthly DCE meetings, providing counsel as needed for our Commissioned leaders.
Serve as the primary staff connection in this area
Serves as collaborative member of the CNH District Executive Team
o Presently serving in the lead for monitoring of VOF Windsor’s transition and re-envisioning
process. (What will be next after the pending sale of the property in August of 2018?) – Working
with Pastor Felcher and VOF to determine next steps. Will counsel with larger Circuit 14 group and Mark Airey at Healdsburg in regards to future steps for VOF.
CNH DISTRICT BOD OUTCOMES 1. The CNH district consists of pastors and specific or site-specific leaders who are engaged
in the mission of Christ and are equipped to lead it. a. Resources are identified that will continue to produce and improve these leaders. b. Personal contact is used to invite and challenge these leaders to enable this outcome. c. Transforming opportunities are made available. d. Regular effort is made to identify pastors and leaders who have demonstrated missional
commitment and recommend them to congregations and ministries as they search for new staff.
e. There is a culture of expected continuing education. f. Leaders from within the community are being identified and developed for specific or site-
specific ministry. g. The practice of leader accountability and openness is widespread. h. Leaders are encouraged and assisted in identifying and reaching underserved
communities. 2. The CNH District has a growing number of congregational leaders engaged in the mission
of Christ and well-equipped to lead it. a. Resources are identified that will continue to produce and improve these leaders.
b. Congregation leaders are encouraged to place a high value on mission when calling new
staff. c. Funds are available and distributed to enable this outcome.
d. Exposure to transforming opportunities are identified and made available (and used).
3. Basic congregational and school support services are provided in an efficient and cost-
effective way, not necessarily by staff. a. The needs are identified
b. People and other resources are identified that can be used to address these needs. c. Training is provided to meet those needs. d. Collaboration between congregations and schools is fostered and enabled.
4. There is new funding for the support of our shared mission. 5. A high percentage of financial resources of the district are allocated to in-the-field
ministries and the giftedness and expertise of individual leaders throughout the district are used to accomplish these outcomes.
Assistant to the President, Mission Advancement – CNH District – LCMS Job Description
Reports to: CNH District President: Position presently filled by Michael Lange Requirements:
Member of the LCMS roster Experience and skills in church planting, new starts, and revitalization Function and learn in a cross-cultural setting Ability to communicate mission vision in verbal and written settings Heart for those not yet connected to Jesus and is yielding to the Mission of God Practice effective advancement skills within the CNH District and beyond
Relate with and lead groups of different ages and backgrounds Primary Responsibilities
Facilitates an advancement team, raising awareness and resourcing future missionary efforts
With the assistance of other District missionary leaders, oversees, recruits and advises present and future church planting, (New start) and missionary staff in the CNH District
Teaming with capable and dedicated District leaders, identifies key characteristics and behavioral questions to identify and recruit mission leaders and develops a pool of key missionary candidates in the area of church, school, and new start efforts
Utilizing communication staff and trained volunteers, communicates missionary traction through story, sharing of facts, statistics, video, and prayer requests, regarding our lay and professional leaders, churches, schools, and overarching vision
Works together with Young People in Mission action team building a young missionary training pipeline that prays for, equips, disciples, and mentors the next generation of missionary leaders
Pursues a path of missiological and theological education that will support the work of starting and continuing the work of the Mission Agency in the CNH and communicates findings to the District
Provides and resources funding plans and disbursement for the mission activities of the District
Shared Responsibilities
Collaborates with other staff, identifies, communicates, recruits and trains prayer teams, leading by example intercessory prayer for Mission leaders, education, and advancement
Works together with identified mission partners (beyond the district), staff and CNH leaders; contributes to the planning, execution, and review of mission education for ALL THE BAPTIZED, resulting in the multiplication of disciples and the planting of new mission starts
Assists in the area of schools in recruitment of mission-minded leaders, communicates missionary behaviors, and identifies a mission education track in which to develop leaders for mission activity in our schools
Consults with District staff and BOD leaders in the reallocation of District dollars for the sake of recruiting and developing missionary leaders, provides appropriate mission education, develops leaders, and assists in planting new starts
Other Supporting responsibilities
Assists District President in supervision of District interests as directed
Provides coaching and mentoring for our professional and lay missionary leaders
Teams with other staff for support of our licensed lay deacons and new pastors and teachers (MAP, mission schools, etc.)
Provides support to our DCEs as needed and serves as the President’s lead staff assigned to
Young People in Mission
Serves as collaborative member of the CNH District Executive Team
Pastor Housing Options Draft: November 2017 Bill Swift
Objectives: 1. Facilitate pastors obtaining suitable housing
2. Facilitate pastors owning property and building equity
3. Avoid or limit property taxes
Option #1: Rent an apartment or house within easy commute to the church. The rent can be part of
the housing allowance provided by the church. If rents are high in the area, the housing allowance can
be increased accordingly.
Option #2: If the church owns a suitable parsonage, then the parsonage can be used to house the
pastor and his family. The church can adjust the pastor’s compensation as a way of charging rent for the
parsonage.
Option #3: Buying a home. If the pastor has the necessary down payment and can afford the
mortgage payments and property taxes, then the ideal situation is that the pastor buys a home entirely
on his own.
Option #4: If the pastor wants to own a home, but doesn’t have the money for a down payment or
can’t afford the full loan payments, then the church can enter into an equity sharing agreement with the
pastor. In this situation the church owns part of the property and splits any value appreciation when the
agreement ends. It is highly advisable to have the agreement in writing and approved by an attorney.
One form of the agreement has the pastor with a conventional first mortgage plus a second mortgage
from the church that has no payments due for interest or principle. The benefit to the church is a split of
the appreciation in property value that occurs during the life of the agreement. Note that the second
mortgage must be structured as a true loan and not appear to be a gift from the church.
Some considerations for an equity sharing agreement:
1. Responsibility for property taxes. The pastor can use the property tax payments as tax
deductions, but the church should feel obligated to pay their share. This can be resolved when
the agreement ends or simply by having the church make part of the payments as they come
due.
2. Capital improvements. If the pastor invests in substantial improvements (not ordinary
maintenance), then the value of the property should increase, and the pastor is entitled to
recover the value of his investment.
3. Conditions and terms for ending the agreement. This could include acceptance of another call,
death, retirement, or simply leaving the employ of the church.
4. Option for the pastor to buy out the church’s interest in the house.
5. Option for the church to buy out the pastor’s interest in the house.
Option #5: The church buys the house (creating a parsonage) and sells part of the property to the
pastor. Assuming the church does not have the cash for the purchase, the church can use a conventional
mortgage for the purchase. By using the house for their pastor’s housing, the property qualifies for
exemption from property tax. This can be a large savings. The church can create a separate contract
with the pastor to sell part of the property to him. The monthly payments can be structured to resemble
a mortgage payment that includes interest plus principle. At the end of the agreement, the pastor would
recover all principle payments. He can also share in the value appreciation based on the percentage of
the property he is buying. Further, money from the pastor’s payments can be used to pay part of the
church’s mortgage payments.
Option #6: If a church owns a suitable parsonage, then they have solved the biggest part of the
problem. A further consideration could be in allowing the pastor to build some home equity. One
current solution to this is the church setting aside a fixed amount of money labeled as home equity. This
can be added to the pastor’s compensation on a monthly or annual basis. The pastor would include this
with his overall compensation for tax purposes. It becomes a budget expense for the church.
Note #1: If a pastor has title to his house and later sells it, he will likely realize a capital gain on the
property. If he buys a house in the following two years, then he can receive an exemption on this capital
gain of $250,000 if he is single or $500,000 if he is married (joint tenancy).
Note #2: If a pastor has an equity interest in his house but does not have title to the house, then any
equity appreciation he receives will be considered additional compensation in the period received and
subject to income tax.
Scenario #1: Church owns the parsonage where pastor resides and is willing to sell a part-ownership
Example: Church’s parsonage is worth $2.0M; pastor resides there now
Pastor can afford $500K using $50K cash and $450K mortgage to purchase 25% share
Church is the mortgage lender and receives monthly payments from pastor
Strategy:
1. Pastor and church enter into a “purchase agreement” for 25% share of the parsonage.
2. Church creates a mortgage that requires the pastor to make monthly payments of principle and
interest to the church.
3. Church creates a fund (using pastor’s payments) to cover the principle paid by the pastor plus
25% of estimated property appreciation. This money will be paid to the pastor when the
agreement is ended. Note that the portion related to property appreciation will likely be
considered as compensation to the pastor and be taxable.
4. The church retains full title to the property. As a non-profit organization providing the house for
pastor housing, they are exempt from property tax.
Scenario #2: Church buys a “new” house for the pastor.
Example: $1.0M property
Pastor can afford $500K with $50K cash and $450K mortgage to purchase 50% share
Strategy:
1. Church purchases the house and creates a parsonage. The church may have to take out a
mortgage to obtain the money for the purchase.
2. Pastor and church enter into a “purchase agreement” for 50% share of the parsonage.
3. Church creates a “purchase agreement” that requires the pastor to make monthly payments of
principle and interest.
4. The church uses the pastor’s monthly payments to offset the church’s monthly loan payments.
5. The church retains full title to the property. As a non-profit organization providing the house for
pastor housing, they are exempt from property tax.
6. When the agreement ends, the property can be sold and the money divided 50/50. The church
also has the option of buying out the pastor’s portion. This could allow the church to avoid sales
costs and use the property for the next pastor.
