2021 BULLETIN OF REPORTS - ASSEMBLY NORTHEASTERN PENNSYLVANIA SYNOD EVANGELICAL LUTHERAN CHURCH IN AMERICA - The Northeastern ...
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2021 BULLETIN OF REPORTS
ASSEMBLY
NORTHEASTERN PENNSYLVANIA SYNOD
of the
EVANGELICAL LUTHERAN CHURCH IN
AMERICA
1
34th Annual Synod Assembly
Northeastern Pennsylvania Synod,
ELCA
June 4-5, 2021
2021 Online Synod Assembly Program
Friday, June 4, 2021
1:30 2:00 PM Gathering Music
2:00 2:45 PM Opening Festival Worship
3:00 - 4:30 PM Plenary Session One
Order for Opening Assembly
Adoption of the Program
Introduction of Guests
Report of the Bishop
“Growing Young”
Report of the Nominating Committee and First Ballot
First Report of the Committee of Reference and Counsel
Announcements
6:30 7:00 PM Gathering Music
7:00 9:00 PM Plenary Session Two
Opening Prayer
Greetings from Portico
Theme Focus – “Heal the Hurt”
Report of the First Ballot, Second Ballot
Comments by Mr. Jim Jennings, ELCA Church Council
Address by Ms. Jodi Slattery, Churchwide Representative
Report of the Treasurer
Presentation of 2022 Spending Proposal
2
“Growing Young”
Introduction of Candidates to the Roster
Acknowledgements: New to the Synod Roster, Recently Retired
Roster Anniversary Video
Announcements
Saturday, June 5, 2021
8:30 - 10:20 AM Plenary Session Three
Opening Worship
Greetings from United Lutheran Seminary
Theme Focus – “Love the Land”
Report of the Vice President
Second Report of the Committee of Reference and Counsel
“Growing Young”
Report of the Secretary
Constitution Committee Report
Announcements
10:35AM - 12:15 PM Plenary Session Four
Opening Prayer
Greetings from Women of the ELCA
Theme Focus – “Engage the Stranger”
Companion Synods Report
Presentation of the 2022 Compensation Guidelines
“Growing Young”
Report of the Second Ballot; Third Ballot
Unfinished Business
Preview of Ministry Laboratory
Other Reports
Announcements
Order for the Closing of an Assembly
Closing Worship
3:00 - 5:00 PM Bishop deForest’s Installation
3
REPORT OF THE BISHOP
It seems odd, that I am writing this, and we are preparing now to hold a Synod
Assembly, a mere 7 or so months after the last Assembly closed. But for all of us
passing through this time of pandemic, panic, protest and political division –
everything seems odd at best; horrific at worst. Not since the civil rights era, or
World War II, or the Great Depression, or the 1918 Spanish Flu Pandemic, or the
First World War – perhaps even the Civil War – have so many challenges and
calamities piled on at once. So many of us are exhausted, scared, uncertain, and in
grief. And the weight in the church has fallen particularly on our congregational
leaders, their councils and staff, and especially our pastors and those serving in
pastoral leadership. I have spoken with many who have suffered greatly, and who
suffer still.
And yet, we still get up in the morning. Still go to work. Still plan and conduct
worship. Still run and attend meetings, many still on “Zoom.” Still baptize, still
preach, still offer communion in ways that are safe and faithful. Still visit the sick
and the homebound, through windows or wearing masks. Still offer life-giving
ministries. Still care for loved ones, neighbors, even total strangers. Still teach and
still make music unto the Lord. Still get our kids to school, and babysit our
grandchildren, and do our vocations in offices, schools, hospitals, construction
sites, military bases, prisons, police barracks, in the streets and on the road. Many
of us are retired, but you’d never know it, because we still serve and work and give
back. Many of us are on disability, and strive to stay connected, but feel
disconnected or left behind. And so many of us still volunteer, create, dream, and
encourage others. Many, many of us are completely “behind the scenes,”
uncelebrated, unsung, even unknown – and yet, we get up and do it all again,
would do it all over again, for the glory of God alone.
Can we pause – even as you read this, and I write it – can we please pray THANK
YOU to God for our pastors, our deacons, our bishops, our cantors, our youth
workers, our councils and committees, officers and chairs, administration and
office support, our faithful volunteers and daily members and prayer warriors, past
and present – who BY THE POWER OF GOD and FAITH have gotten us through
everything – especially this time of pandemic? AMEN!
And so, here we are. What’s next? Let us dare to ask that question, not with
impending doom and gloom, but with boldness of faith, and brightness of eyes, and
joy in our hearts. Let us be GOD-RELIANT! Let us be CHRIST-CENTERED! Let
4
us be SPIRIT-LED! Never forgetting the Gospel of Jesus, the Mystery of Faith:
CHRIST HAS DIED. CHRIST IS RISEN! CHRIST WILL COME AGAIN!!!
This 2021 Synod Assembly, in all three of its big moments – the Online Assembly,
June 4-5; the Installation Service, June 5; and the August 14 “Ministry
Laboratory,” or “MIN-LAB” – has one theme: “GROWING YOUNG AND
VITAL.” This theme recognizes an overall goal that God has for our Synod, and
for all of us and our congregations: we seek to invite and inspire young people to
share their needs and concerns, joys and passions; and to take their place with all
of us, in making and re-making the church as Jesus-centered community for today
and tomorrow.
“GROWING YOUNG” is a movement rising up across the nation, across
denominations, and it has been active and vital here in NEPA Synod for over a
year already. It is one of three VITAL SIGN GOALS taking us into the next
several years, to 2026 and beyond. The second Vital Sign Goal is named
“GAINING STRENGTH.” It calls for every congregation and every leader to
affirm and identify their strengths, and to find a partner or partners to combine
strengths and shore up weaknesses by working together. And the third Vital Sign
Goal is called “GOING BEYOND DEATH TO LIFE.” This Goal seeks to create
an overall strategic plan for stuck, struggling, or finishing congregations to live
well, serve well, and when they ready, to end well – leaving a lasting, faithful,
purposeful legacy.
These three VITAL SIGN GOALS will take time; at least 6 years of focused effort,
teamwork, and clear goals and outcomes. Our Synod staff in new positions will be
tasked with helping to form and support the teams and task forces who get to work
on each of these three Goals. These wise and creative volunteers, working with me
and the Synod Council, will lead us to real solutions, to ways that work for
addressing the real problems that real congregations face.
That’s the plan for the long run; but what about our immediate needs and
concerns? What is God calling us to act on, today – and how has God already been
at work in and through the people and congregations of this synod? These
questions are why, we are also focusing this Synod Assembly on what we call
“VITAL SIGNS FOR NOW.” What are the ways we have already been:
HEALING THE HURT? LOVING THE LAND? And ENGAGING THE
STRANGER? At this Synod Assembly – June 4-5 online, and in-person on August
14’s MIN-LAB – we will be sharing what we do, and inspiring each other to
answer these questions. All coming from the big question: “WHAT ARE OUR
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VITAL SIGNS?” As the Body of Christ, we are all called to share his love and life.
As we do this, let’s also share ideas, and partner with each other to go even further.
To be sure, the challenges we face are difficult and immense. But our God is
bigger and stronger, and our Christ Jesus has already gone before us, to show the
way. And by the Holy Spirit, we will all be well led – if we but listen and follow.
With joy and gratitude, I am…
Christopher deForest, Your Bishop
REPORT OF THE SECRETARY
(The following changes took place between September 1, 2020, and April 30, 2021.)
ROSTER CHANGES FOR MINISTERS OF WORD AND SACRAMENT
Ordinations
Koerner, Elizabeth, April 23, 2021
Received from Other Synods
Button, Michael, retired, from Texas-Louisiana Gulf Coast Synod, February 2, 2021
Smith-Levan, Eileen, retired, from Sierra Pacific Synod, November 1, 2020.
Transferred to Other Synods
Albright, Althea D., Friedens, Kempton, to New Jersey Synod, November 15, 2020.
Bohan, Jeffrey G., on leave from call to Upstate New York Synod, October 30, 2020.
Hand, Harold L., retired, to Lower Susquehanna Synod, February 2, 2021.
Johnston, Christina M., on leave from call to Montana Synod, June 1, 2020.
Laubach, Harry M. Jr., retired to Rocky Mountain Synod, November 1, 2020.
Newhart, David C., retired, to Lower Susquehanna Synod, February 2, 2021.
Resigned from the Roster
Kulp, Gerald S., February 24, 2021.
Removed from the Roster
None
Deaths*
Billeck, Donald R., December 1, 2020.
Hassler, Larry R., November 29, 2020.
Hein, George E., Jr., April 16, 2021.
Horn, William W., January 14, 2021.
Spieker, George F., April 10, 2021
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Stauffer, Andrew, April 22, 2021
Uhler, Willard J., November 27, 2020.
Weiser, William H., February 18, 2021.
Wolford, Phyllis J., January 4, 2021.
*The deaths of William W. Ennis (September 19, 2020) and Gene E. Handwerk (October 2,
2020), were included in the report to the 2020 assembly.
__________________
The Rev. Donald R. Billeck, son of Joseph and Helen (Kujanpaa) Billeck, was born October 28,
1944, in The Bronx, New York. He graduated from Wagner College (1966) and received his
Master of Divinity and Doctor of Ministry degrees from the Lutheran Theological Seminary at
Philadelphia (1970, 1985). Following his ordination in 1970 by the Metropolitan New York
Synod, Pastor Billeck served St. Paul, Kingston, New York, and Calvary, Rudy, New York.
From 1973 to 1980 he served Grace, Greenwood Lake, New York; St. Michael, Amagansett,
New York (1980-1982); St. Paul, Williamsport, Pa. (1982-1985); and Zion, Takoma Park,
Maryland (1985-1989). In 1989 Pastor Billeck entered this synod when he was called to serve
St. Paul (Smithfield) in Craigs Meadows. Receiving certification as an intentional interim, he
served as interim pastor for St. Luke (Old Williams), Hellertown; St. Paul, Bethlehem; Holy
Trinity, Kingston; Trinity, Lehighton; Jerusalem, Trachsville; Arndt’s, Easton; St. Peter,
Plainfield Township; and Hope, Tatamy. After retiring in 2007 Pastor Billeck continued to serve
as the interim pastor of several synod congregations, including St. John, Effort; St. Paul Third,
Easton; Cedar, Cetronia; and St. John, Pen Argyl, where he was serving at the time of his death.
Pastor Billeck was married to Joyce Ann Behr on May 23, 1970. In addition to his wife, he is
survived by his sons David, Stephen, and Timothy.
_________________
The Rev. Larry R. Hassler, son of Leroy and Esther (Rohrbach) Hassler, was born on June 5,
1940, in Lyons Station. He graduated from Kutztown University (1962) and the Lutheran
Theological Seminary at Philadelphia (1965).
.
Ordained by the Eastern Pennsylvania Synod in 1965, he served Alsace Lutheran Church,
Reading, as their assistant pastor (1965-1970); the Rehrersburg-Bethel Lutheran Parish (1970-
1979); and St. John’s, Pine Grove, and St. Matthew’s, Ravine (1979-1997). He retired in 1997,
after which he continued to serve as a supply pastor in a number of synod congregations.
On October 17, 1965, Pastor Hassler was married to Peggy Deborah Angstadt, who survives him
along with their son, the Rev. John P. Hassler.
_________________
The Rev. George E. Hein Jr, son of the late George E. Hein Sr. and Tillie I. (Stauffer) Hein,
was born in Whitehall on March 19, 1933. He graduated from Muhlenberg College (1955) and
the Lutheran Theological Seminary at Philadelphia (1958).
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Following ordination on May, 25 1958, by the Ministerium of Pennsylvania, he served the
following congregations: New Ringgold Parish (1958-1962); Mahoning Parish (1962-1965);
Belfast-Wind Gap Parish (1965-1971); Allegheny, Alleghenyville (1971-1980); Rehrersburg-
Bethel Parish (1980-1991); and Christ, Penn Forest Township (1991-1995). After retiring in
1995, he continued to serve as Visitation Pastor at Jordan, Orefield (1996-2003).
On August 20, 1955, Pastor Hein was married to Loretta Huber, who survives him along with
their sons Wilson and Daniel.
_________________
The Rev. William W. Horn, son of the Rev. Dr. Henry E. Horn and Catherine (Stainken) Horn,
was born in Marion, Virginia, on November 19, 1944. He graduated from Gettysburg College
(1966) and the Lutheran Seminary at Philadelphia (1970). After his ordination he earned an MA
in counseling from Marywood University.
Following his ordination by the Northeastern Pennsylvania Synod on June 7, 1970, Pastor Horn
served Zion, Minersville (1970-1976) and St. John, St. Johns (1976 to 1979). Following study as
a student chaplain at Philadelphia State Hospital (Byberry), he was then called to serve as
Chaplain of the Good Shepherd Home, Allentown (1980-2010). During his time at Good
Shepherd, Pastor Horn was honored with both the Raker Memorial Award and the Raker Spirit
Award. Following his retirement in 2010, Pastor Horn served both as interim pastor at Zion,
Northampton and as a consultant to the Northampton congregations as they considered their
future.
On June 21, 1969, Pastor Horn was married to Lorraine Shade, who survives him. He is also
survived by their children William, Rachel Gohman, and Sarah Croft. Their son Christian died
in 1978.
_________________
The Rev. George F. Spieker, son of the Rev. Paul and Marian (Stager) Spieker, was born in
Emmaus on May 9, 1930. He served in the U.S. Army (1952-1954), including in Korea, and was
awarded the Bronze Star. He graduated from Muhlenberg College (1952) and the Lutheran
Theological Seminary at Philadelphia (1957).
Pastor Spieker was ordained by the Ministerium of Pennsylvania on May 26, 1957, the fourth
consecutive generation of Lutheran pastors in the Spieker family. He served St. Paul’s, Gordon
(1957-1959); Robeson, Plowville (1959-1972); and St. John, Coplay (1972-1993). Following his
retirement in 1993 he served as dean to the retired pastors in the Lehigh Valley and also served
St. Peter, Bethlehem, as a visitation pastor until 2012. He was registered with the Boy Scouts for
more than 55 years and held many positions and received many awards, such as the Lamb
Award.
On August 11, 1956, Pastor Spieker was married to Rebecca Ann Keller, who survives him
along with their children David and Jane Ann.
_________________
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The Rev. Andrew Stauffer, son Charles B. and Verna A. (Boyer) Stauffer, was born on January
26, 1940, in Topton. He graduated from Muhlenberg College (1961) and the Lutheran
Theological Seminary at Philadelphia (1965).
Following his ordination by the Eastern Pennsylvania Synod on May 30, 1965, Pastor Stauffer
served the Mt. Bethel Lutheran Parish in Bangor (1965-1968); St. James, Geigertown (1969-
1972); St. John, Tremont (1972-1980); the Lobach's-Shalter's Lutheran Parish in Oley (1980-
1988); St. Paul, Lobachsville (1989-1991); and Christ Stone Church, Mt. Bethel (1991-2002).
Following his retirement, he has served the synod as a frequent supply pastor for congregations
in transition.
On October 21, 1961, Pastor Stauffer married Sharlene A. Moyer, who predeceased him on April
8, 2020. They are survived by their two daughters, Jennifer Weil and Bethany Kline.
_________________
The Rev. Willard J. Uhler Jr., son of the late Willard J. and Marjorie A. (Snyder) Uhler, was
born in Abington on December 9, 1947. He graduated from Carthage College, Kenosha,
Wisconsin (1970) and Hamma School of Theology, Springfield, Ohio (1974).
Following his ordination by the Northeastern Pennsylvania Synod on May 24, 1974, Pastor
Uhler served St. Luke, Archbald and St. Paul, Carbondale (1974-1978); St. John, Tamaqua
(1978-1990); and St. John, Hamburg (1990-2014), where he was Pastor Emeritus. He retired in
2014.
On June 14, 1969, Pastor Uhler was married to Charlotte E. Paulson, who survives him along
with their two children, Christian and Meridith Saul.
________________
The Rev. William H. Weiser, son of Ralph and Dorothy (Stover) Weiser, was born in
Harrisburg on November 29, 1960. He was a graduate of Susquehanna University (1982) and of
the Lutheran Theological Seminary at Gettysburg (1986).
Following his ordination on June 13, 1986, by the Central Pennsylvania Synod, Pastor Weiser
served Christ’s United, Millmont (1986-1995). He served Trinity, Robesonia, from 1995 to the
time of his death in 2021.
On November 10, 1984, Pastor Weiser was married to Gwen H. Hammaker, who survives him
along with their children Sarah K. McGrory, Timothy, Matthew, and Phillip.
_________________
The Rev. Phyllis J. Wolford, daughter of Marvin and Minnie (Greene) Wolford, was born on
October 27, 1946, in Palmerton. She graduated from Bryant College, Rhode Island (1969), and
9
the Lutheran Theological Seminary at Philadelphia (1995). Prior to entering seminary Pastor
Wolford worked for the Palmerton Area School District (1969-1972) and as an administrative
assistant for the Carbon Lehigh Intermediate Unit (1972-1991). She was elected to the school
board of the Palmerton Area School District in 1989.
Following her ordination on June 9, 1996, by the Northeastern Pennsylvania Synod, Pastor
Wolford served Zion, Minersville (1996-2000); St. Matthew, North Weissport (2001-2007); and
St. John, Tamaqua (2008-2021).
_________________
2019-20 Pastoral Changes
Diefenderfer, Lee A., on leave from call to retired, November 1, 2020.
Dietz, Rachael C., St. John, Mohnton, to Executive Associate to the Bishop for Leadership,
Northeastern Pennsylvania Synod, February 8, 2021.
Garbe, Kurt E., Associate of the Bishop, Northeastern Pennsylvania Synod, to retired,
December 31, 2020.
Koerner, Elizabeth, newly ordained to St. John, Stroudsburg, April 23, 2021.
Kulp, Gerald S., St. Peter, Bethlehem, to resigned from the roster, February 24, 2021.
Langensiepen, Elizabeth C., St. Peter, Allentown, to retired, September 1, 2020.
Laufer, Mary E., St. Mark’s, Wilkes-Barre, to retired, October 1, 2020.
Milne, Martin A., Zion, Old Zionsville, to Christ, Dryville, September 20, 2020.
Osterhout, Bruce G., on leave from call to Bethany, West Reading, February 1, 2021.
Wenzel, Carl A., on leave from call to retired, September 1, 2020.
Wimmer, Mark A., VP for Church Relations, Diakon, to retired, February 1, 2021.
Wuertle, Peggy M., Associate of the Bishop, Northeastern Pennsylvania Synod, to retired,
December 31, 2020.
Zeiser, Samuel R., Bishop, Northeastern Pennsylvania Synod, to retired, December 31, 2020.
ROSTER CHANGES FOR MINISTERS OF WORD AND SERVICE
Received from Other Synods
Woodfield, G. Travis, Indiana-Kentucky Synod, February 1, 2021.
Transferred to Other Synods
None.
Resigned from Roster
None
Removed from Roster
None
Deaths
10None
Changes in Positions
Saylor, Bruce, on leave from call to retired, June 1, 2018.
Woodfield, G. Travis, to Director of Congregation Legacy and Purpose, Northeastern
Pennsylvania Synod, February 1, 2021.
CONGREGATIONAL CHANGES
St. Mark, Wilkes-Barre, closed September 28, 2020.
Respectfully Submitted,
Carl D. Shankweiler, Secretary
REPORT OF THE SYNOD COUNCIL
The Synod Council met twice since the October 2020 assembly: January 30, 2021, and April 24,
2021. The final version of the Report of the Synod Council for the 2020 assembly included the
actions of the July and September 2020 council meetings, which could be reported in 2020
because the 2020 assembly came so late in the year.
The numbers preceding the resolutions indicate the year, month, and sequence of the resolution.
Hence, (2021.04.05) means the fifth resolution adopted at the April 2021 council meeting.
Council resolutions that are recommendations for assembly action appear in bold face.
Occasionally the Synod Council needs to act between regular meetings by email vote; actions of
that nature are reported at the next regular meeting of the council, assigned a number, and
included in the minutes of that meeting.
Except for purely procedural resolutions (such as a motion to adjourn or to approve the minutes
of a previous meeting) all resolutions adopted by the above-listed council meetings or reported
thereto following email adoption are presented here for review by the assembly. The complete
minutes of the council meetings are posted on the synod’s website and/or are available upon
request from the synod secretary.
11ASSEMBLY
(2021.04.06) Resolved, That the following resolution concerning the 2021 assembly program be
recommended to the 2021 Synod Assembly:
Resolved, That the 2021 Assembly program (as printed in the Bulletin of Reports) be
adopted.
(2021.04.09) Resolved, That the 2021 Assembly of the Northeastern Pennsylvania Synod be
held on June 4-5 virtually.
BUDGET AND FINANCE
(2021.01.04) Resolved, That a loan in the amount of $35,000 be made from the Church Loan
Development Fund to St. Mark Lutheran Church, Birdsboro, for the purpose of technology
upgrades. The terms of the loan will be $35,000 with a seven-year repayment schedule at two
percent interest.
(2021.01.05) Resolved, That the portion of Christopher deForest's 2021 salary (beginning
January 1, 2021) to be designated as housing allowance be $25,000.
(2021.01.06) Resolved, That the Synod Council of the Northeastern Pennsylvania Synod (a)
accept the cash offer of $1,005,000.00 for the property identified as 1345 Minesite Road, Lower
Macungie Township, Lehigh County, as arranged through Atty. Blake C. Marles and (b)
authorize Atty. Marles to complete the sale on the synod's behalf as soon as possible at terms and
conditions that he deems appropriate.
(2021.01.07) Resolved, That 2021 Executive Staff compensation be set in accordance with the
following schedule, reflecting (1) total compensation, and (2) for ordained staff members the amount of
base salary, social security allowance, and housing allowance. The amounts designated as housing
allowance shall apply to calendar year 2021 and all future years unless otherwise provided by this
Synod Council. (Numbers are rounded to the nearest dollar.)
NAME*** BASE SALARY HOUSING SS TOTAL
deForest $67,350 $25,000 $ 7,650 $100,000
Dietz $35,000 $30,000 $ 4,973 $ 69,973
Woodfield $ 2,295* $ 30,000
Wolfe Blatt $ 6,000 ***
Ash-Flashner $ 16,236
Bennethum $ 7,500**
Grube $ 16,236
Huber $ 23,236
Drennan $ 16,236
Gombert $ 1,836* $ 24,000
Shankweiler $ 1,000
* Employer’s required portion of Social Security.
12** Pastor Bennethum’s salary as DEM is paid by the ELCA Churchwide Organization. This amount
represents additional compensation to bring his benefits into alignment with synod guidelines.
*** Compensation for the associate serving the Pocono Mission District and a portion of the
compensation for the Director of Communications and Events is paid to their
congregations under a purchase of services arrangement.
[Note: The 2021 cost for support staff will be $113,898]
(2021.04.05) Resolved, That the following resolution concerning the 2022 spending proposal be
recommended to the 2021 Synod Assembly:
Resolved, That the 2022 spending proposal (February 1, 2022, to January 31, 2023)
be adopted. The Synod Council is hereby authorized to establish the 2022 spending
proposal no later than its January 2022 meeting, making any necessary adjustment to
the proposal in light of both realistic anticipation of receipts and synod priorities (in
consultation with the ELCA Treasurer with respect to the ELCA portion thereof.) .
(2021.01.09) Resolved, That the following persons be approved as signers for synod financial
accounts: Bishop Christopher deForest, Donald Dillman, Kristen Edelman-Weiner, Carl
Shankweiler, Rachael Dietz, D. Michael Bennethum.
(2021.01.10) Resolved, That the following resolution be adopted and added to Chapter II of the
synod’s Continuing Resolutions and Other Resolutions of Ongoing Impact:
The Prosser, Pahse, Mission Fund shall be renamed the Mission Development Fund and,
to the fullest extent possible, the annual reports of that fund shall indicate the
contributions that have gone into that fund specifying (a) the donors, (b) the original
amounts given, and (c) the calendar years in which those gifts were made.
(2021.01.11) Resolved, That the Resolutions of Ongoing Impact that refer to the Prosser, Pahse,
Mission Fund (Chapter II, Nos. 6, 7, and 8) be amended so that they read as follows:
6. The treasurer shall be authorized to place earned income that has not otherwise
been designated for spending into a common fund (currently the Mission Development
Fund) to be used for special projects or for synod budget items as designated from time to
time by the Synod Council. Should an emergency arise between meetings of the Synod
Council, the treasurer shall be authorized to expend up to $5,000 from the fund upon
unanimous consent of the other officers and the chairperson of the Finance Committee.
7. The assets from dissolving congregations, including the proceeds from selling their
real estate holdings, shall be added to the Mission Development Fund with the exception
that the Synod Council may entertain requests by the congregation councils of dissolving
congregations that a portion of their assets be directed to other specific benevolent causes
related to the ministries of the Synod and the ELCA.
8. The Synod Council shall set an annual spending policy for the Mission Development
Fund, the Student Education Fund, the Leadership Development Fund, and the Social
Ministry Fund based on the percentages of the funds’ average asset values over the
13previous five-year period.
CALLS, APPOINTMENTS, AND ROSTER MAINTENANCE
(2021.01.01) Resolved, That the Rev. Rachael C. Dietz receive a call to special service as
Executive Associate of the Bishop for Leadership, effective February 8, 2021.
(2021.01.02) Resolved, That Deacon George Travis Woodfield receive a two-year part-time call
to special service as Director of Legacy and Purpose, effective February 1, 2021, to January 31,
2023.
(2021.01.15) Resolved, That a call to special service be issued to the Rev. Thomas Daniel
Clayborne to serve as transitional pastor of Emmanuel, Emanuelsville, effective July 1, 2019.
(2021.01.12) Resolved, That in accordance with sections 7.31.16. and 7.52.22. of the ELCA
Constitution, “on leave from call” status be approved as follows:
Clergy (first year): The Rev. David Newman
Deacon (second year): Deacon Patrice Kidd
Deacon (third year): Deacon Jacqueline Grauel
(2021.04.08) Resolved, That in accordance with sections 7.31.16. and 7.52.22. of the ELCA
Constitution, “on leave from call” status be approved as follows:
Clergy (second year): The Rev. Thomas F. Irwin Jr.
(2021.01.13) Resolved, That in accordance with ELCA bylaw 7.41.17. and upon endorsement
by the bishop, the following rostered leader be granted the roster status of “retired”:
Deacon Bruce Saylor (June 1, 2018)
The Rev. Mary Laufer (October 1, 2020)
The Rev. Lee Diefenderfer (November 1, 2020)
The Rev. Mark Wimmer (January 9, 2021)
(2021.04.07) Resolved, That in accordance with ELCA bylaw 7.41.17. and upon endorsement
by the bishop, the following rostered leader be granted the roster status of “retired”:
The Rev. Lesley Hand (July 1, 2021)
CONGREGATIONS
(2021.01.14) Resolved, That the Common Ground Recovery Community, housed at Atonement
Lutheran Church, 5 Wyomissing Blvd, Wyomissing, PA 19610, be reauthorized as a Synodically
Authorized Worshipping Community of the Northeastern Pennsylvania Synod.
14BEAR CREEK CAMP
(2021.04.03) Resolved, That the Northeastern Pennsylvania Synod Council approve the
proposed Supplemental Right of Way Agreement of 2021 between the Eastern Pennsylvania
Lutheran Camp Corporation (the Southeastern Pennsylvania Synod of the Evangelical Lutheran
Church in America f/k/a Eastern Pennsylvania Synod of the Lutheran Church in America) and
the Transcontinental Gas Pipe Line Company, LLC.
UNITED LUTHERAN SEMINARY
(2021.04.02) Resolved, That in accordance with BLS10.03. David A. Russell be elected to a
second three-year term on the United Lutheran Seminary Board of Trustees with this term
expiring on June 30, 2024.
SYNOD ORGANIZATION AND POLICIES
(2021.04.01) Resolved, That in accordance with S10.03. the Synod Council fill the vacancy on
the council of the position of female youth member by electing Cassandra Teter to serve in that
capacity until the 2021 Synod Assembly.
(2021.04.04). Resolved, That in accordance with S9.07. Donald Boyer be nominated for the
office of treasurer for a four-year term.
(2021.01.03) Resolved, That the Synod Council affirm the "three-lane path" of synod vital sign
goals and strategies--together with the staffing plan to address these goals and strategies--as
presented to the synod in January 2021 by Bishop Christopher deForest, those "lanes" being (1)
(2021.01.08) Resolved, That the following bylaw addition be presented to the 2021 Synod
Assembly for action:
BLS10.01. An in-person, electronic, or telephone meeting of the Synod Council may
be called by (a) the Synod Council itself by taking action at any given meeting to set
a future date on which to meet again; (b) the bishop, (c) the vice president, or (d)
any third of the members of the council. Although notice of at least two weeks
should be provided if the timeliness of the projected business allows, there is no
minimum time required for notification provided that all council members
currently within the synod's territory have been notified prior to the meeting.
Respectfully submitted,
Carl D. Shankweiler, Secretary
15MISSION INTERPRETATION MINISTRY REPORT
Mission Interpreters share stories and communicate with congregations on how we are using our
hands to do God’s work. Due to the pandemic restrictions, no in person visits were made during
2020 and 2021 to date with congregations to say thank you and help congregations understand
how their Mission Support commitments fulfill many ministries.
Volunteers, Charlotte Gross and Georgia Suranofsky work together to coordinate the ministry.
Charlotte focuses on the Lehigh and Northern Lehigh Mission Districts. Georgia focuses on
Bethlehem-Easton and Pocono Mission Districts. We both service the other districts upon
request. We also are available to make presentations to congregational councils and stewardship
committees.
We continue to build the Synod team of Mission Interpreters. More information can be found on
the Synod website and our facebook page about this ministry. A monthly informational email is
sent to the interpreters, Deans and Associates of the Bishop. If you would like to receive the
email, please contact Georgia at georgiasuranofsky@hotmail.com.
During 2020 we met other coordinators throughout the ELCA virtually over 4 months to share
ideas and learn more about the ministries we support. We held a gathering in March of 2021 with
synod mission interpreters via zoom entitled “God’s Work. Sharing the Stories. The gathering
focused on the resources and stories available.
A brochure with stories of several ministries that have been supported through congregational
giving was not published in 2020. However, 4 video stories were shown during the 2020 synod
assembly for ministries supported by mission support giving. A 2021 version of the brochure
will go digital as a flipbook and be available after the assembly.
The Mission Support Table provides guidance for the Mission Interpreter Ministry year. Both
Charlotte and Georgia are members of the Table. The Table completed a video and thank you
letter in March of 2021 for the 2020 giving to be shared with congregations.
Submitted by:
Georgia Suranofsky
16Northeastern Pennsylvania Synod
2022 Proposed Spending Plan
SPENDING PLAN
2020 2021 2022
Account Account Approved Actual Approved Proposed
Number Description Budget Revenue Budget Budget
Expenditures
Deferred Revenue Available for Appropriations 41,850
REVENUE
50100 Interest Earnings 200 14,566 15,000 15,000
51000 Rental Income 2,400 2,400 14,400 2,400
52000 Events Income 6,285 15,635 16,000 24,000
54000 Mission Support 2,000,000 1,975,489 1,850,000 1,800,000
54600 Candidacy Operations 0 1,500 0 0
54700 DEM Support Grant 0 10,000 10,000 110,000
55100 Estate Donations 0 94 0 0
55200 Youth Ministry 0 0 0 0
55410 Resource Center Operations 0 0 0
56015 Witness and Service Operations 0 680 0 0
59310 Synod Assembly 90,000 45,970 50,000 50,000
59810 Miscellaneous Income 0 2,887 5,000 5,000
TOTAL REVENUE 2,098,885 2,069,221 1,960,400 2,006,400
Total Funds Available for Approprations 2,048,250
EXPENDITURES
WORKSHOPS
62000 Other Workshops 0 663 2,000 2,000
62001 Boundaries Workshop 0 0 0 0
Total 0 663 2,000 2,000
MISSION SUPPORT
64100 ELCA Mission Support 940,000 947,400 869,500 47% 846,000
Total 940,000 947,400 869,500 846,000
GRANTS
64480 Wellness 0 13,480 0 0
17Total 0 13,480 0 0
WORSHIP TEAM
65000 Worship Team 400 0 400 400
Total 400 0 400 400
FAITH FORAMATION RESOURCE TEAM (See Footnote 1)
65100 Faith Formation Resource Team 200 0 200 400
Total 200 0 200 400
YOUTH, YOUNG ADULT, AND FAMILY TEAM (See Footnote 1)
65200 Youth Ministry 2,000 1,562 4,900 4,900
65220 Young Adult Ministry 0
65250 LYF Board 0
65290 Youth Events Scholarships/Grants 0
Total 2,000 1,562 4,900 4,900
RESOURCE CENTER OPERATIONS
65410 Resource Center Operations 2,550 383 1,000 1,000
Total 2,550 383 1,000 1,000
CONNECTION BUILDING TEAM (See Footnote 1)
65530 Communications 1,100 100 1,000 1,000
Total 1,100 100 1,000 1,000
LEADERSHIP DEVELOPMENT TEAM (See Footnote 1)
65600 Professional Leadership Grants 600 78 3,500 3,500
65615 Leadership Development Team - Other 0
65815 Leadership Development for Youth 0
Total 600 78 3,500 3,500
WITNESS & SERVICE TEAM
66000 Witness and Service Teams 45,450 21,807 54,000 0
66015 Witness Service Operations 0 0 0 200
66120 Gay & Lesbian Ministry TF 0 0 0 100
66130 Accessibility Team 0 0 0 100
66140 World Hunger Advocates 0 0 0 100
Care of Creation Task Force 0 0 0 100
66150 Witness & Service Grants 0 0 0 9,150
66160 Support Intern & Other Leaders 0 0 0 5,500
66310 Ministry Adjustment/Development 0 0 0 17,000
66400 Multicultural Ministry 0
1866430 Common Ground 0 0 17,000 17,000
66440 Hope's Table 0 0 12,000 12,000
66800 Campus Ministry 0 0 0 20,000
67110 Leisure Ministry 1,500
67310 Global Mission 250
Total 45,450 21,807 83,000 83,000
TEAM TOTALS 52,300 23,930 94,000 94,200
INSTITUTION & AGENCY SUPPORT
67500 INSTITUTION SUPPORT 18,000 17,389 0 0
67515 Diakon 0 0 5,550 0.3% 5,400
67525 Lutheran Congregational Services 0 6,611 5,550 0.3% 5,400
67535 Good Shepherd 0 10,777 5,550 0.3% 5,400
Total 18,000 17,389 16,650 16,200
67500 AGENCY SUPPORT
67505 Social Ministry Institution Grants 0 0 3,000 0.0% 0
67510 United Seminary 96,000 94,820 92,500 5.0% 90,000
67520 Bear Creek Camp 28,000 27,656 25,900 1.4% 25,200
67540 Muhlenberg College 6,000 5,926 5,550 0.3% 5,400
67550 PA Conference of Churches 4,000 3,951 3,700 0.2% 3,600
67560 LAMPA 4,000 3,951 3,700 0.2% 3,600
67560 IJCU Muhlenberg 0 73 0 0
Total 138,000 136,377 134,350 8.0% 127,800
TOTAL SUPPORT 156,000 153,765 151,000 144,000
EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE
68110 Candidacy 10,000 6,161 15,000 15,000
68200 Archives 6,000 6,000 8,000 6,000
Total 16,000 12,161 23,000 21,000
ADMINISTRATION
BISHOP'S OFFICE
69110 Bishops Discretionary Fund 500 1,500 1,500 1,500
69120 Consultations-Cong/Professional Ldrs. 2,000 0 2,000 2,000
69130 Interim Ministry 500 0 500 500
69160 Bishop Conference 0 18,564 23,000 23,000
69170 Ecumenism 0 57 100 100
69180 Stewardship 1,300 2,207 2,600 2,600
69195 Assignment Travel Pool 1,500 0 1,500 1,500
1969190 Miscellaneous Expenses 200 542 1,500 1,500
Total 6,000 22,869 32,700 32,700
ADMINISTRATION
69200 Administrator Office Expenses 200 742 1,000 1,000
69310 Assembly Expenses 50 45,353 50,000 50,000
69410 Synod Council Expenses 200 115 200 200
69430 Legal Services 1,990 1,136 2,000 2,000
69450 Contract Services 33,840 33,826 35,000 30,884
Total 36,280 81,172 88,200 84,084
SYNOD STAFF
69500 Executive Staff 371,905 365,785 360,000 399,822
69560 Travel - Executive Staff 28,000 27,320 30,000 30,600
69600 Support Staff 216,900 151,812 141,200 116,545
69660 Travel - Support Staff 16,000 354 3,000 1,500
69700 DEM Staff 0 0 0 110,000
Total 632,805 545,271 534,200 658,467
BUILDING AND OFFICE
69700 Building Expenses/Occupancy 50,000 74,610 81,300 81,300
69800 Office Expenses 61,000 42,814 40,000 40,000
69910 Computer Expenses 6,500 4,800 6,500 6,500
69920 Auditors 20,000 30,000 25,000 25,000
69930 Major Capital Improvements/Maintenance 0 0 12,500 12,500
6999 Miscellaneous Expenses 28,000 866 500 500
Total 165,500 153,090 165,800 165,800
ADMINISTRATIVE TOTAL 840,585 802,402 820,900 941,050
TOTAL PROPOSED SPENDING PLAN 2,004,885 1,953,801 1,960,400 2,048,250
20TREASURER’S REPORT
Synod Assembly - 2021
As we near the end of the COVID 19 pandemic, I wish to share two important
financial matters concerning the Northeastern Pennsylvania Synod during the
pandemic.
I am pleased to report that the Synod received a 2020 Payroll Protection Program
loan in the amount of $84,800.00. The funds were used to pay all staff personnel,
both rostered as well as support staff, thus avoiding the necessity to furlough or
terminate staff. The synod received notice from the Small Business Administration
that the loan was approved as a grant and it was not necessary to return any or all of
the monies received. A special thank you to the Rev. Michael Bennethum and Mr.
Eric Gombert for all their work in securing the loan and provided the necessary
documents to secure the forgiveness of the loan.
Like many of the congregations of the synod, the Finance Committee and the Synod
Council were concerned about the receipt of mission support funds during the
pandemic. While many programs were reduced or eliminate in 2020, there were still
salaries, benefits, utilities, and insurance expenses that needed to be paid. Through
you generosity we received 97%, or $1,793,973.42 of the mission support budgeted
for 2020, thus permitting us to meet our goals and obligations to the national church
and the many organizations we support annually. On behalf of the Finance
Committee and Synod Council, I would like to take this opportunity to say thank
you for your most generous financial support of the work of the synod and ELCA
during these trying times.
It has been a pleasure serving as Synod Treasurer and working with you in doing
God work in the Northeastern Pennsylvania Synod.
Yours in Christ;
Donald R. Dillman
Treasurer
21REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE OF DEANS
The Committee of Deans met frequently since the last synod assembly. Consideration of roster
matters was an ongoing task of the deans at most of their meetings.
At its October 2020 meeting, Bishop Zeiser welcomed newly elected Deans Rachael Dietz and
Lauren Wolfe Blatt. He highlighted the creation of the racial justice task force, led by Deacon
Deborah Graf. The deans prepared for the online mission district caucuses, set to take place
during the Assembly.
In December, Bishop Zeiser made concluding remarks and the deans thanked him for his many
years of service to the Church. They received Bishop-elect Christopher deForest’s initial
welcome and greeting. The deans discussed worship practices and the concern for wearied
rostered ministers.
In February 2021, the deans welcomed Bishop deForest and Ryan Hersch, the interim dean of
the West Berks Mission District. Bishop deForest heard from the deans their concerns and
challenges. The deans also gave the Bishop feedback on his January letter concerning the
pandemic.
In March, the deans planned a basic sketch of the spring Mission District Assemblies. Bishop
deForest plans to attend the beginning of each one, taking time to lay out his vision for the
Synod. The deans plan to meet on the 2nd Wednesday every other month on Zoom.
Anniversaries of Rostered Service
2021 marks the 15th anniversary of service for:
June E. Bair
Nancy L. Moore
Rachael C. R. Dietz
Deacon Bruce R. Saylor
Deacon Tammy L. Rade
The following leaders are celebrating 25 years of service:
Jeffrey J. Butz
Steven C Claycomb
Mary K. Owens
Deborah M. Wagner
Observing their 40th anniversary of ordination or commissioning are:
Bruce D. MacLaughlin
Catherine A. Ziel
Cheryl Meinshein Hausman
22David R. Rowe
Gary L. Walbert
James C. Covert
Jerel W. Gade
John E Houck
John F. Hazel, Jr.
Lynda R. Haring
Mary W. Gade
Phillip K. Smith
Robert C. Reier
Deacon Michael E. Krentz
Celebrating their 50th anniversary of ordained service are:
Arthur B. Wyse
Clark W Kuntz II
David R. Strobel
John W. Tomlinson, Jr.
Roger E. Timm
Marking 55 years of rostered ministry are:
Frederick I. Fisher
George B. Zacharda, Jr.
Gilbert B. Furst
Rudolph K. David
Celebrating their 60th anniversary of ordination are:
Carl R. Adams
Curtis L. Olson
Frederick S. Foerster
Richard L. Hinkle
William B. Fryer, Jr.
Celebrating their 65 years of ordained service are:
Franklin Sherman
Helmut Kaffine
Victor A. Kroninger, Jr.
Marking 70 years of ordained ministry are:
Augustus V. Tietbohl
Lawrence P. Delp
23THE REV. CLARK WEBSTER KUNTZ II, the son of Clark and Hazel (Eck) Kuntz, was born on
December 17, 1945 in Northampton. He graduated from Muhlenberg College in 1967 and the
Lutheran Theological Seminary at Philadelphia in 1971. In 1981, he earned a Doctor of Ministry
degree from the Lutheran Theological Seminary at Philadelphia.
Following his ordination by the Northeastern Pennsylvania Synod of the Lutheran Church in
America on June 6, 1971, Pastor Kuntz was called to serve Jacobs-Outwood Parish, Pine Grove.
He then served St. Peter’s, Allentown, from 1977 to 1986. He accepted the call as pastor of Hope,
Cherryville, from 1986 until his retirement in 2008. In his retirement, he has assisted with visitation
at St. John, Allentown, and Lutheran Manor in Bethlehem.
Pastor Kuntz was married to Maureen (Nolan) Kuntz on January 27, 1973. They are the parents of
three children— Katherine Anne, Elizabeth Mary, and David John.
THE REV. ARTHUR BENJAMIN WYSE was born on October 26, 1936, in Managua, Nicaragua.
After high school, he enlisted in Marine Corps, specializing in intelligence. He graduated from
Capital University in 1967 and Trinity Lutheran Seminary in 1971.
Ordained on October 26, 1971, by the American Lutheran Church, he first served as a missionary
pastor in Colombia, South America from 1971-1977. From 1987-1981, he was pastor of Ascension
Lutheran in Milwaukee, WI. In 1981, he was called by the Division for Mission in North America
of the Lutheran Church in America as Pastor/Developer of Iglesia Luterana San Juan in
Worchester, MA (1981-1987). Remaining to the New England Synod, he served at St. Mark
Lutheran in Bridgeport, CT from 1987-1997. He came to the Northeastern Pennsylvania Synod to
serve St. Luke Lutheran in Reading from 1997-2006. Since his retirement, he has been an interim
pastor and currently serves as Visitation Pastor at Atonement Lutheran in Wyomissing.
Pastor Wyse married Milly J. (Sund) Wyse on August 13, 1966. They are the parents of two
children—Marit Sund and Jon-Erik Sund.
THE REV. JOHN WORTHINGTON TOMLINSON JR. was born on September 20, 1934 to John
W. Tomlinson Sr. and Madaline (Conner) Tomlinson. He graduated from Temple University in
1969 and the Lutheran Theological Seminary at Philadelphia in 1971.
He was ordained by the Southeastern Pennsylvania Synod of the Lutheran Church in America on
June 27,1971. He served the New Ringgold Parish from 1971-1976, Messiah/St. Mark Lutheran
in Wilkes-Barre from 1976-1982, and Friedens, Center Valley, from 1982-1999. Following his
retirement, he served on the board of Lutheran Congregational Services and as Visitation Pastor
at Redeemer Lutheran in Allentown.
Pastor Tomlinson married Dorothy (Wert) Tomlinson on November 19, 1965.
24THE REV. DR. ROGER EDWIN TIMM was born on April 2, 1945, a son of Edwin August and
Paula (Rathjen) Timm. He graduated from Concordia Senior College, Ft. Wayne, Indiana and
Concordia Seminary, St. Louis, Missouri. He earned a Ph.D. from Columbia University and Union
Theological Seminary in 1975.
Dr. Timm was ordained on April 25, 1971 by the Atlantic District of the Lutheran Church-Missouri
Synod.
He served St. John-Concordia Lutheran Church, Bronx, NY from 1971-1973, Assistant Professor
at Concordia, Bronxville, NY from 1973 to 1974, and University Lutheran Chapel at UCLA from
1975 to 1980.
Received by transfer into the Northeastern PA Synod of the Lutheran Church in America, Dr.
Timm served as the Assistant Chaplain and an Assistant Professor of Religion of Muhlenberg
College from 1980 to 1985. He became a full-time faculty member in 1985. From 1998 to 1992,
he served as Campus Pastor and Associate Professor of Religion at Carthage College, Kenosha,
WI, an ELCA-affiliated institution. He served St. James Lutheran Church, Naperville, IL, from
1993 to 2000. Dr. Timm served Ascension Lutheran Riverside, IL from 2000 until his retirement
from active ministry in 2011.
He married Marilyn Louise (Rodenbeck) Timm on June 18, 1967. They are the parents of two
daughters — Sarah Christine and Anne Louise.
THE REV. DAVID RICHARD STROBEL was born August 14, 1945, a son of Herman R. and
Leona H. Strobel.
He graduated from Johns Hopkins University in 1967 and the Lutheran Theological Seminary at
Philadelphia in 1971. He earned a Master of Arts in Systematic Theology from the University of
Chicago in 1980.
Ordained by the Northeastern PA Synod of the Lutheran Church in America on September 8, 1971,
he served Hope Lutheran, Hyde Park, PA and Reformation, Vandergrift, PA from 1971 to 1974.
While pursing graduate studies, he served as pastor of Trinity Lutheran, Park Forest, IL.
He served Zion Lutheran, Maxatawny, from 1980 to 1985; St. Timothy, Allentown, from 1985 to
1994; and Trinity Lutheran, Reading, from 1994 to 1996. In 1996, Pastor Strobel was elected
Bishop of the Northeastern PA Synod, a call in which he served two terms before retiring in 2008.
He married Doris J. (Reiner) Strobel on November 21, 1970. They are the parents of two
children—Kurt Richard and Erika Lee.
The Rev. Rachael C. R. Dietz
Executive Associate of the Bishop for Leadership
25DIRECTOR OF YOUTH, YOUNG ADULT, AND FAITH
FORMATION MINISTRY REPORT
In 2020, we tried “a new thing."
No, I don’t mean all of the new things that were forced on us during covid-19. I am
talking about the position I have been honored to serve you within.
At the start of 2020, I walked into a newly created 19-month position to see how
God might work through me and those I have worked with for the benefit of the
youth, young adults, families, and faith formation of our synod.
Throughout this year and a half, God showed up. Yes, despite the world being
turned on its head just 2.5 months into this “new thing,” the Spirit continued to
move and surprise us.
God has given us a gift in connection with others. One of the first things we did in
2020 was to develop some structure for this connection. YoYoFa started funneling
youth-related announcements through biweekly email announcements, scheduling
monthly gatherings for youth leaders, re-doing our YoYoFa webpage to add
relevant resources and links, and increasing engagement and activity on new and
old social media platforms.
This improved communication made it possible to adapt as the coronavirus
continued on. Online alternatives such as the 2020 STAY May Play Day and 2020
Online Baccalaureate service were born. More lay folks, rostered ministers,
volunteers, and synod church staff were connected through conversations,
trainings, and events such as We Love..., Youth Leadership Summit, Learning
Ministries Day, Extravaganza, Independent Confirmation Project, and more.
Slowly but surely, the Spirit led us to dip our toes into what it means for us to
“Grow Young” as a synod – a pedagogy from a Fuller Youth Institute book that
helps churches better engage and love people of all ages. What started as trainings
and book clubs for leaders transformed into an entire Virtual Summit and has
trickled down into the leaders themselves leading congregational book clubs. This
is a culture change which is only just beginning.
My favorite part of this time together has been the people I have worked with
along the way. Pastor Lauren Applegate and Pastor Becca Middeke-Conlin have
26been incredible colleagues and guides along this journey. I wouldn’t be writing
about these endeavors without their constant encouragement and collaboration.
Additionally, it has been a joy to walk with the Faith Formation Team community
and assist them in making their efforts a reality.
If the experiment of this position has taught us anything, I hope it was that there is
value in trying something new… something where we aren’t sure where God is
leading us. Through this year and a half, God has led us to more defined
communication and more frequent connection (even digitally!). God has led us to
Growing Young and the principles that are already helping our leaders better love
and engage the people in our midst. God has raised up new leaders through
Baccalaureate services, book clubs, event planning, and national church
opportunities.
My hope is that we do not let this improved connection, pursuit of Growing
Young, and raising up of others fade away, but serve as a foundation for wherever
God is leading to us next.
While I do not know if that would be best served by another person filling this role,
a new role altogether, or another path, I do know that we were blessed in taking a
risk and trying something new. I hope that whatever group gathers to discern the
future of the ministries I have engaged in my short time with you all is open to “a
new thing” as the Spirit moves us along our way.
Thank you all for your welcome, collaboration, and encouragement over the past
year and a half.
I cannot wait to see where God takes you from here.
God’s peace,
Sammy Kelly
Director of Youth, Young Adult, and Faith Formation Ministries
27WITNESS AND SERVICE TEAM REPORT
“A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must
love one another. By this everyone will know that you are my disciples if you love
one another.” John 13:34-35
The Witness & Service Team continues to support ministries in our synod that
demonstrate that love, share the Good News, and serve the needs of our communities.
In the past, we have supported (in the form of a grant or in some cases direct financial
support): Community Gardens and Food Distribution; Mission Trips to rebuild after
natural disasters; Literacy Programs—summer, after school, or adult; Community
Aid—winter coats, school backpacks, holiday cheer; Online Access—hardware and
software for developing online participation for those without access to the internet;
Worship and Gathering Places for underserved communities.
We invite your good ideas! An application can be found on the Synod website. On the
application you will be asked to present your ministry plan, budget, goals, and
projected outcomes. A Witness and Services Team grant amount typically does not
exceed 1/3 of total project budget and is limited to $3,000 for a single applicant or
$5,000 for a collaborative project. In our effort to encourage new ideas and emerging
ministries, we do not fund the same project for more than three consecutive years. In
three years, your new idea has had time to grow and prosper; be communicated to the
larger community; earn respect, new friends, new partners, and support. So as your
congregation returns to a new normal, we look forward to learning about how you are
reimagining ministry—a ministry of love to one another.
The Witness and Service Team is also made up of smaller and more focused
subgroups and task forces. Team members are available to reach out to these areas of
ministry to learn of successes, challenges, plans, and how we can work together. We
invite you to learn more about our team, and its subgroups and task forces online at:
The Northeastern Pennsylvania Synod » Witness and Service Ministry Team
(nepasynod.org)
Respectfully submitted,
Linda Maxon, convenor
28NEPA COACH NETWORK
Did you know that one of the emphases within the ELCA is on coaching? There is a
growing network of coaches trained using the resources of the ELCA and partnerships
with professional coach training programs. Coaches receive both general instruction
using ICF (International Coach Federation) core competencies and standards of ethics
along with more specific training in the areas of Faith Formation, Stewardship,
Congregational Vitality/Redevelopment, Mission starts and Care of Creation.
Our role is to accompany rostered and congregational leaders using a process that
supports them in identifying stumbling blocks in their ministries and then, developing
goals and action plans that help to effectively deal with these challenges and move
forward. We journey with our clients through the creation of realistic options and
measurable action steps lifting up progress, both big and small, along the way.
As the training has evolved so has the emphasis on establishing a coaching network
within each of the synods of church. We began exploring coaching in the NEPA
Synod in 2017 and were able to provide coaching to several leaders on our territory.
Today we are part of a churchwide process for equipping synodical DEMs and Coach
Coordinators with the training and resources to effectively grow our coaching
network.
Currently, a Coach Champions Team is being formed to help drive this process which
we are hopeful will be integrated into the process of supporting Bishop deForest’s
Vitality Vision for the synod. Our Bishop and staff have enthusiastically embraced the
value of coaching and are working with us to make this ministry as prosperous and
effective as possible. We humbly ask your prayers for this ministry that it may be a
blessing to our Bishop, synod staff, and rostered and lay leaders throughout the NEPA
Synod.
If you want to know more about becoming a part of our network please contact me
using the phone number or email listed below. Thanks!
Submitted by:
Pr. Tom Lang
NEPA Coach Coordinator
St. Paul's Lutheran Church
Fleetwood, PA
610.944.8388 (church) pastor@spelcfleetwood.com
29LEADERSHIP DEVELOPMENT MINISTRY TEAM
The Leadership Development Ministry Team centers on the following priorities: is
to identify candidates for and encourage lay and rostered leaders in the church, to
develop and grow their gifts for ministry and to support them siblings in Christ. To
accomplish this, we commit to provide and communicate opportunities for
leadership development in the congregation, the synod, and the whole Church. The
team maintains and reviews the salary and compensation guidelines found in the
bulletin of reports.
The global pandemic has certainly propelled us all into new ways of leading.
Online giving, worship via Zoom, YouTube, or Facebook Live. A chance to meet
our neighbors, sometimes for the first time. Since our last Assembly in October
2020, most of the Leadership Development Team’s focus has been being a
resource for leaders during the pandemic.
Cultivating a culture of adaptive leadership takes time, energy, effort, and lots and
lots of practice! Thank YOU for the ways you embraced change so that our
communities experience the grace of God in Jesus Christ through the power of the
Spirit.
Many thanks to the current team members for their hard work and dedication to
developing leaders: the Rev. Lauren Applegate and the Rev. David Blitch. We
especially thank Rev. Kurt Garbe for his many years of staff support and wish him
well in retirement. Consider joining our team as we support leadership
development!
Submitted by Rev. Rachael Dietz, convener
302022 MINIMUM COMPENSATION GUIDELINES
These guidelines represent a 2% increase over 2021.
ROSTERED PASTORS
2022 Minimum Salary Guidelines
Resolved that:
1) The 2022 minimum base salary for Ministers of Word and Sacrament (Pastors) in the
Northeastern Pennsylvania Synod of the ELCA be in agreement with the following guidelines:
Years completed 2022 2022
Service in ordained Recommended Salary Range Recommended Salary Range
Ministry (including housing allowance) (parsonage provided)
Low High Low High
0-1 55,694 61,284 38,708 42,579
2-3 56,926 62,149 39,941 43,942
4-7 58,160 63,977 41,179 45,294
8-10 60,594 66,691 43,655 48,010
11-15 62,481 74,977 45,496 50,045
16-20 65,566 78,678 47,629 57,156
21+ 68,652 89,248 51,668 67,168
2) It is the responsibility of each congregation to provide housing for its pastor(s). This
may be accomplished in either of two ways:
a) Housing Allowance. A portion of the pastor’s salary may be designated as a housing
allowance. This amount will vary, depending upon location and the needs of the pastor.
Congregations and pastors should check current tax laws in establishing this figure. This
amount should be established before the beginning of each year by a resolution of the
Congregation Council or the listing of an amount in the congregation’s budget.
b) Parsonage. This is free use of a church-owned house, including utilities. A portion of the
pastor’s base salary may be set aside for furnishings and other housing expenses according
to the IRS code. An annual equity allowance of a minimum of 3%-5% of salary is
recommended for all parsonage situations.
3) Congregations should remember that the figures in the grid are minimums. Congregations are
encouraged to exceed these minimum guidelines. Additional compensation should be provided
based on criteria such as continuing education, special skills, responsibilities, merit, and local
conditions.
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