2012 Annual Report

St.
Paul Lutheran Ministries Annual Report 2011
2012 Annual Report
St. Paul Lutheran Ministries Annual Report 2012
Official Acts. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Tammy Bjugson. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4 Financial Report. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Heather Stroud . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7
Membership . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Pastor. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6
2010-2011 Ministry Staff . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Tammy Bjugson. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3
Congregational President . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Daniel Langner . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. . . .2
St. Paul Lutheran Ministries Annual Report - 2012
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Christian Education. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Kim Ketola . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17 Stewardship. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Greg Erath . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18 Outreach . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Properties. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Gary Mellgren/Bill Bonds. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .19
Youth Ministry . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Executive Director. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Mitch Bjugson . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ..14
Capital Campaign. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Jim Bode/Kevin Brown . . . . . .. . . . .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. . . . . .15 Dr. Joel Dietrich . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. . . . . . . .. . . . . . . .. . . .. . . 16
Elders. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Mike King. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
Pastor. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11
Endowment Committee . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Linda Anderson. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .20 School Principal and School Board . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Jeff Haas/Jim Richards. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .23 Chris Schwartz/Billie Nichols . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21
Church Office Manager . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Tammy Bjugson . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .22 Director of Admissions. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Deanne Scruggs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .31 Director of Development . . . .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Kim Langner . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .33 School Office Manager. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Joanne Poole . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .35
Congregational President
Hello and Gods richest blessings to each of us as we move forward with the exciting future that our heavenly Father has planned for us. Again, we wanted to provide an annual report on the state of St. Paul for you, our members. We hope you will find it informative as we summarize the events of our prior year and look forward to our future.
Daniel Langner
With the challenges that we have ahead of us in the coming year, we know that we will continue to be blessed beyond our expectations. There are always areas of our ministry where we need leaders and servants. As our ministry changes and continues to grow please consider being a key participant in that growth and reap the benefits that abound. Your time and talents will be rewarded in ways more than you can imagine.
The 2011-2012 fiscal year ended with a small budget surplus that allowed us to reward deserving staff members, and to continue upgrading our current facility. Generous members and conservative fiscal decisions are helping to keep us on track to end the year in the black. Thanks to you members who sacrificially provided over and above your customary offerings. We also want to thank the volunteers who have served above and beyond their normal level of service. You have been a tremendous blessing to our church and school. Thanks to all of our collective efforts, our projected results will be on more solid footing to address the challenges of the coming year. God is a great God and He continues to bless St. Paul in many aspects. We are confident that God will guide our leadership throughout 2013 and with your support, will allow us to move forward with confidence to grow our ministry and honor Him in many ways. Our ministry is alive and thriving and continues to see growth in giving and offerings. Chef Prebles Professional Touch Catering continues to provide an extraordinary school lunch program for our children and for our monthly fellowship meals.
Our More than we can Imagine campaign continues with over $1.8 million in sacrificial commitments, which will provide for us a dedicated worship facility. As we approach our first goal of 70% in hand, we will begin plans to initiate construction. Much work will be required for this so if you have talents in design, decorating or planning your contribution(s) would be much appreciated. If you would like to contribute your ideas, time and efforts toward this project, please contact Pastor Norm Steinke or Mitch Bjugson.
Finally, heartfelt thanks go out to Pastor Dan, Karisa and family for their love, friendship and never ending commitment to Him through their service to our St. Paul family. I am thankful that God placed him and his family here to serve & lead us for the past 9 years. Their work and dedication to our ministry will be missed, but we all know that they will continue to do great work for Him in their new church for many years to come. May Gods bestow his richest blessings to you and our St. Paul family throughout the coming year.
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As we move forward awaiting God to show us the next pastor that He has chosen to guide our ministry, your leaders look forward to your comments and questions regarding any aspects of the transition process. This process may move slower or faster than you anticipate, but please be patient as we accept the timing that God has set forth for us. Most importantly, we ask you to continue to lift up in prayer St. Paul ministry, our staff, members, leadership, interim pastors and volunteers.
2012-2013 Ministry Staff

2012-2013 St. Paul Lutheran School Staff
Pastor Daniel Schepmann, Pastor Mr. James Richards, Principal Mr. Mitch Bjugson, Executive Director Mrs. Tina Hajducko, Business Manager Mrs. Tammy Bjugson, Church Office Manager Mrs. Joanne Poole, School Office Manager Mrs. Deanne Scruggs, Admissions Director Mrs. Kim Langner, Director of Development Mr. Bill Bonds, Custodian Mrs. Brenda Spieler, 8th Grade Teacher Mr. Mark Abresch, 7th Grade Teacher Mrs. Jennifer Goode, 6th Grade Teacher Mrs. Ann Didier, 5th Grade Teacher Ms. Kiara Denholm, 4th Grade Teacher Mrs. Jessica Anderson, 3rd Grade Teacher Ms. Shelby Harwell, 2nd Grade Teacher Mrs. Tamie Worthington, 1st Grade Teacher Ms. Molly Millard, Kindergarten Teacher Mrs. Brenda Dobler, Pre-K 4 Teacher Mrs. Bonnie Howland, Pre-K 3 Teacher Mrs. Jennifer Thomas, MMO & Pre-K 2 Teacher Mrs. Karisa Schepmann, MMO & PK-2 Aide Mrs. Becky Lane, 1st Grade Aide Mrs. Sheri Schafer, Kindergarten Aide Mrs. Sandra Haldeman, Pre-K 4 Aide Mrs. Julie Quarles, Pre-K 3 Aide Mrs. Karina Langford, Computer/Math/Media Specialist Mrs. Kelly McKinney, Band Pastor Rob Maulella, Spanish Teacher Mrs. Charlane Walley, Camp J-Zone Mr. Matthew Preble & StaffFood Ministry
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2012 Official Acts

1/1/2012 through 12/31/2012 Baptisms: Luke Garrett Isham, 1/1/2012 Garrett Donald Ellis, 1/22/2012 Aubrey Anne Ellis, 1/22/2012 Charlotte Grace Kennedy, 2/26/2012 Madeline Mae Kennedy, 2/26/2012 Jacqueline Ruth Kennedy, 2/26/2012 Makayla Alexis Walley, 3/11/2012 Bailey Michelle Walley, 3/11/2012 Gabriella Maria Goldberg, 4/8/2012 Nicholas Scott Goldberg, 4/8/2012 Shane Jacob Goldberg, 4/8/2012 Wyatt Richard Schaber, 5/16/2012 Luke Michael Prestidge, 8/5/2012 Kara Leigh Senger, 8/5/2012 Jack Elijah Gibson, 9/30/2012 Zania Jolena Meier, 10/2/2012 Strickland, Joshua, 12/23/2012 Strickland, Jordan, 12/23/2012 Miller, Jonathan Richard 12/30/2012 10/28/2012 Katherine Grace Brown Kate Elizabeth Everett Noah Alexander Fritz Melanie Dalia Giunta Zachary Michael Hall Lauren Michelle Handley Logan David Langner Lauren Marie Pinkepank Morgan Leigh Prillaman Jamie Kimberly Richards 5/6/2012 Bedrossian, Brian & Debbie Alina, Alexander, Anna, Andrew, Ariadna, Adam Ellis, Michelle Aubrey, Garrett Fetherston, Kimberly (Kim) Konnor Fritz, Alex & Dawn Noah, Ryan
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Youth Confirmation:
Adult Confirmation:
Gibson, Evan & Kerry Jack Harwell, Shelby Marsalis, John & Susan Hannah, Harrison Strawcutter, Ron & Rose Prestidge, Mike & Taryn Senger, Mary Kathryn 12/9/2012 Esparza, Nathan & Susan Harrison & Jacob Hayes, Mark & Michelle Paisley & Peyton Strickland, Elie Jada, Joshua, & Jordan Profession of Faith: 12/9/2012 Sutliff, Jim & Barbara Wright, Lenny & Lisa Laura LaMarche, 1/14/2012 Dale Luhman, 3/24/2012 Lois Irene Bonds, 7/28/2012 Bryce Anderson, 9/21/2012 Ralph Ketola, 12/21/2012
Church Triumphant:
Weddings:
Joel Edwards Hines & Jennifer Grace Bixby, 4/14/2012 Joshua Chad Cobb & Lauren Elizabeth Dobler, 6/9/2012 Joe Proctor & Emily Kaping, 9/29/2012 Jim Bode & Millie Kaiser, 12/11/2012 Wendt, Randy, 12/9/2012 Greg, Jennifer, Caitlin, & Shae Switzer, 11/7/2012 Lynda Wojcik, 11/7/2012 Mike, Amy, Emily, Justin, & Will Doil, 12/5/2012 Bill, Mary Ellen, & Tyler Gragg, 12/21/2012
Transfer In: Peaceful Release:
Membership
Membership Totals Total Baptized Membership Total Communicant Membership 12/31/2008 368 242 12/31/2009 397 278 12/31/2010 440 319 12/31/2011 460 339 12/31/2012 454 341
Calendar Year Average Weekly Attendance Worship per Sunday Adult Bible Class Childrens Sunday School/ 2007 221 70/Sun 85/Sun 2008 213 52/Sun 101/Sun 2009 234 52/Sun. 101/Sun. 2010 240 55/Sun. 96/Sun. 2011 264 62/Sun 106 2012 244 70/Sun 90/Sun
Congregational Membership and Weekly Worship Trends

500 450 400 350 300 250 200 150 100 50 0 2000 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 169 147 166 162 239 241 261 183 150 216 203 173 157 308 250 217 358 289 257 228 221 242 213 400 393 368 319 278 234 240 339 264 341 397 440 460 454
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Baptized
Communicant
Weekly Attendance
Financial Report
FINANCE REPORT Heather Stroud, Treasurer Fiscal year-end 2011-2012 St. Paul Lutheran Church and School budgets run on a fiscal year July 1st through June 30th each year. Our church pledges are given on a calendar year January 1st through December 31st. As in past years, budgeted church receipts from offerings were realized because of the blessings of the generous giving of our members. We would like to extend our sincere gratitude to all of you who are tithing and otherwise giving sacrificially.
Church Giving
$700,000 $600,000 $500,000
$100,000 $-
'01/02 '02/03 '03/04 '04/05 '05/06 '06/07 '07/08 '08/09 '09/10 '10/11 '11/12 Bud '12/13 Church Giving
$171,000
St. Paul Lutheran Church and School Income and Expense Report Fiscal Year End June 2012 Income Church School Total Expenses Salary/Benefits Building Admin School Church Total $ Income vs. Expenses $ 1,022,915 394,512 75,878 47,527 93,496 1,634,328 36,738 1,037,795 392,300 71,000 38,086 94,500 1,633,681 4,108 7 14,880 (2,212) (4,878) (9,441) 1,004 (647) 32,630 YTD June 650,290 1,020,776 1,671,066 Budget 625,767 1,012,022 1,637,789 Variance 24,523 8,754 $ 33,277
$211,000
$242,437
$200,000
$360,861
$420,856
$426,422
$300,000
$ $
$479,645
$499,725
$540,703
$592,500
$ $
$624,025
$400,000
$684,101
St. Paul Lutheran Ministries Annual Report 2012 St. Paul Lutheran Church and School Balance Sheet Fiscal Year End June 2012 ASSETS ASSETS Current Assets Cash Investments Total Current Assets Fixed Assets Land & Buildings Total Fixed Assets Total Assets
139,630 415,251 554,882 5,125,768 5,125,768 5,680,650
LIABILITIES, FUND PRINCIPLE & RESTRICTED FUNDS LIABILITIES Accounts Payable 6,988 Payroll Withholdings 472 Mortgage 4,537,458 Other Liabilities Line of Credit Loan 100,000 Jump Start Loan Total Other Liabilities 100,000 Total Liabilities 4,644,918 FUND BALANCE General Fund 435,055 Excess Cash Received 36,738 Total Fund Balance and Excess Cash Received 471,793 RESTRICTED FUNDS 563,939 Total Liabilities, Fund Principle & Restricted Funds 5,680,650
The 2012-2013 Budget

St. Paul Lutheran Church and School Income and Expense Report Budget 2012-2013 Income Church School Total Expenses Salary/Benefits Building Admin School Church Total $ Income vs. Expenses $ 1,128,563 454,400 74,350 35,385 107,110 1,799,808 47 Budget 684,101 1,115,754 1,799,855
Church offerings were budgeted at 10% increase from prior year. School enrollment was estimated to be at 183 students. We had $10,359 that was given as financial aid for tuition. This money would provide scholarships for students who could not afford to pay full tuition. Also budgeted was $100,000 in unfunded tuition. A GA Tax Credit line item was added for the revenue received from the state program -$55k. Our FL/GA District contribution for the upcoming fiscal year was budgeted to be 10% of projected offerings. The budget assumed all current staff positions were filled. Assumed the hiring of Children & Family and Youth positions in October 2012. This budget also assumed a newly formed part-time Executive Director position. There was an 8% increase assumed for Health Care costs for January June 2013. The budget assumed mortgage and interest to be paid at $288k for the year.
Interim 6-month financial statements ending December 2012

St. Paul Lutheran Church and School Income and Expense Report December 2012 Income Church School Total $ Expenses Salary/Benefits Building Admin School Church Total $ Income vs. Expenses $ YTD Dec 319,460 552,407 871,867 514,194 223,604 38,109 21,978 37,933 835,819 36,048 Budget 342,051 590,352 932,403 562,382 224,050 40,550 24,910 53,455 905,347 27,056 Variance (22,591) (37,945) $ (60,536) 48,187 446 2,441 2,932 15,522 69,528 8,992
$ $
$ $
St. Paul Lutheran Church and School Balance Sheet December 2012 ASSETS ASSETS Current Assets Cash Investments Total Current Assets Fixed Assets Land & Buildings Total Fixed Assets Total Assets
484,008 651,653 1,135,660 5,125,768 5,125,768 6,261,429
LIABILITIES, FUND PRINCIPLE & RESTRICTED FUNDS LIABILITIES Accounts Payable Payroll Withholdings 376 Mortgage 4,537,458 Other Liabilities Line of Credit Loan 100,000 Jump Start Loan Total Other Liabilities 100,000 Total Liabilities 4,637,834 FUND BALANCE General Fund 438,625 Excess Cash Received 36,048 Total Fund Balance and Excess Cash Received 474,672 RESTRICTED FUNDS 1,148,922 Total Liabilities, Fund Principle & Restricted Funds 6,261,429
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Pastor
Greetings and blessings in the name of Jesus, our Savior and Friend. Words cannot adequately express the joy and love I have for each of you, my St. Paul family. These past nine years have been an amazing blessing to me and the entire Schepmann family. In 2004, I entered into ministry partnership with an amazing congregation filled will courageous, faith-filled, and amazing leaders. I served alongside congregational members and leaders who gave of themselves in ways well beyond their capacity. I became part of an amazing journey that has grown my faith, my love for you, and an incredible appreciation for the power of prayer, faith, and trust in the Lord. Nine years later, I give thanks to God for all He has done here at St. Paul Lutheran Church and School and continues to do. I have learned so much from you and give thanks to God for this incredible opportunity to serve as your pastor, to partner in ministry with you, and to have the honor and privilege of calling you my family. When I look back to 2012, I think about all the lives, families, and situations that have been transformed with eternal values because Christ is becoming an integral part of homes and lives. This past year, I was blessed to be a part of a congregation that began to see the value of cross-generational ministry, the importance of our congregational family engaging in life together, and the importance of seeing parents as the primary faith-former in the lives of their children. I have been truly amazed at all the God did in and through each of us this past year. So as you read through this report, please see it more than list of highlights, accomplishments, and statistics, but an overview of Gods hand of providence within and beyond the St. Paul community. There were so many highlights and events in 2012, but I want to focus on a few.. A pivotal moment in St. Pauls history was accomplished in a Voters meeting in March in which, St. Paul took a vital step in ministry and faith with the approval of several key ministry positions. A Director of Family Ministries and Executive Director were approved and soon after that meeting, Mr. Mitch Bjugson was brought on in a part-time position. Mitch quickly demonstrated his expertise and insights with the administrative functioning of our entire church and school family. Mitch has proven to be an incredible blessing to the overall functioning of our ministry, but also in relieving me of so many of the administrative functions that were part of my daily routine. Mitch has been instrumental in the systems and processes of our ministry, has taken on many responsibilities in the overall functioning of our campus, and began the process of the Crabapple Land Purchase and the building program. St. Paul is so very blessed to have the caliber and expertise of Mitch Bjugson and I give thanks to God for him, his leadership, passion for ministry, but most of all, his friendship. The other staff position that was approved has brought us the blessing of Dr. Joel Dietrich. From the very first time I talked with Dr. Dietrich, I was impressed and enriched with our conversations. In fact, he helped me see the importance of family ministry in ways that I never imagined. After a thorough search and much prayer, the Call committee unanimously recommended Joel to be called as our Director of Family ministries at St. Paul. In his position, Joel will oversee the entire family ministry and have a direct responsibility for children ministry and supervise the youth intern that will prayerfully be a part of the St. Paul family in June of this year. Joel brings a wealth in insights, experience, and an understanding of family ministry that will prove a wonderful blessing for St. Paul in achieving the mission of Bringing Christ to the Home so that Lives are Transformed with Eternal Values. During this past year, we bid farewell to Tina Hajducko, our business manager and Cory Smith, our Director of Youth Ministries. Both of these individuals have been missed, but we praise God for their ministry among us and for all they did in laying the groundwork for present and future ministry. We bid farewell to Paul Burdette as he enrolled and was accepted into Concordia Seminary, St. Louis. Paul is doing a fantastic job at the seminary and it is such a blessing to be a part of his pastoral formation. He and his family have
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transitioned to seminary life and are doing well. I was thrilled to hear that Paul was assigned a great field work church, Concordia Lutheran Church, in Kirkwood, MO, which would have a very similar feel and look as St. Paul. In fact, his Sr. Pastor and I graduated from the seminary together and will do a great job in helping Paul continue his pastoral formation. Katie Worthington will also graduate from Concordia Seward in May of 2013 with a degree in teaching and will serve in a Lutheran School. We also received news that Grant Worthington will enroll and attend Concordia Seward to pursue a teaching degree and serve in a Lutheran School. One of the marks of a healthy congregation is its sending capacity for full-time church workers and St. Paul has been blessed with five (5) sons and daughters of the congregation into full-time church work. What a wonderful blessing!
2012 also marked a continued faithfulness with the More than We Can Imagine capital stewardship campaign. In fact, St. Paul has already achieved the 50% mark of pledged funds in the bank. Only 20% more to go before ground is broken! Praise God! I look forward to hearing all about the progress, groundbreaking and look forward to the first service in the new worship facility. This past year, I was also very pleased to watch the spiritual growth of our congregation as evidenced in increased Bible class attendance, small group participation, worship attendance, financial giving, and mission opportunities. But there are so many more opportunities for spiritual growth and development for each of us. I pray that St. Paul will continue to focus on the three critical targets for ministry of Discipleship, Fellowship (Community), and Outreach. I conclude my report, thanking each of you for all you are doing within the body of Christ. Because you are, faithfully administering Gods grace in its various forms, (1 Peter 4:10), lives are being eternally touched with the love of Jesus Christ. I praise God for what I am seeing and hearing about your various ministries to people, families, and situations. As I previously shared with you, as you begin the next chapter of Gods story for you, dont forget to remain a praying church with Christ as the foundation and center of all that you do. Continue to build one another up in love and encouragement. While there will be angst, concern and other issues about your next pastor, remember that this is the Lords church and He already is preparing the heart and mind of your next pastor. God is faithful and He will walk with you through this next chapter of ministry. Pastor Rob Maulella is a wonderful blessing to the Church and I pray you will receive him as your guest pastor during this transition time and welcome him into the St. Paul family as you have done for the Schepmann family. I pray that you will remain focused on Jesus Christ and His mission within and beyond the walls of St. Paul Lutheran Church and School. Dont allow the doubt and lies of the evil one to creep into your conversations, relationships, and decisions. He will seek to divide and conquer, but as you remain faithful to the Lord, He will continue to use St. Paul Lutheran Ministries in so many ways to the Peachtree City community and beyond as you, Bring Christ into the Home, Transform Lives for Eternity, and are Developing Fully Devoted Followers of Jesus Christ. I conclude with the words from the apostle Paul that summarizes the love and joy he had for a congregation that was near and dear to him. I, too, will also hold St. Paul Lutheran Church and School in my heart and will always be proud to say that I served as your pastor. I thank my God every time I remember you. 4In all my prayers for all of you, I always pray with joy 5because of your partnership in the gospel from the first day until now, 6being confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus. (Philippians 1:3-6) Gods richest blessings to each of you! To God Alone be the Glory! Pastor Dan Schepmann
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Elders
Mike King Head Elder
Members of the Board of Elders: Jim Bode Bruce Ketola Mike King Brent Sussman Allen Vehrs David Worthington What is the purpose of the Elder Board? What do you do? The Elders are responsible for the spiritual health of the congregation both corporately and individually. They pray for, call and visit members to maintain connection and to identify and address needs. The Elders are especially concerned for the members of the church staff and their families. The board accomplishes this by meeting with Pastoral staff to remain aware of their needs and concerns. They recommend Pastoral staff salary and benefits. The board helps plan worship opportunities, assists with administration of Sacraments and member visitation, and consults on financial assistance for members. 2012 Accomplishments The board has worked closely with Pastor to implement hospital visitation training and increase hospital and other visitation by laity. The board revamped administration of communion by developing teams with assistants drawn from outside the elders. We have promoted increased emphasis on discipleship and Bible study and sought grants and training opportunities for new faith formation ministries such as Vibrant Faith. We adjusted service times to allow better preparation for Bible study classes and increased fellowship after services. The Elders were deeply involved in call committees for Minister to Families and Minister to Youth. The board has worked closely with Pastor to increase excellence in worship and to promote a culture where members feel called and empowered to assist and care for each other. The Elders advocated for improved support and care for our called workers. We led in the effort to increase pay for our workers midway through our budget year because there were no pay adjustments for the past 18 months. 2013 Plans/Goals/Ministry Ideas Assist in promotion of family ministry in conjunction with our new Minister to Families, Dr. Joel Dietrich. Promote role of shepherd in every group at St Paul. Emphasize and support in-depth Bible study. Lead in the transition process as we seek a new senior pastor at St. Paul and participate in on-going call process for Minister to Youth. Longer Term Vision How are you seeking to fulfill the mission, vision, critical targets, and strategic goals? The Elders are maintaining their traditional focus on spiritual health, worship, care for staff and care for members while exploring new ministry concepts, structures, and tools. The strategic goals (maintaining a growing and dynamic Christcentered ministry to children, youth, and families; connecting people to Jesus Christ through excellence in worship; and providing an environment for loving relationships) are core to what the Elders both do and encourage others to do. We will fulfill these goals by promoting new discipleship opportunities and ministries, increasing Bible study opportunity, improving worship settings and practices, and promoting shepherding within the family at St Paul.
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Executive Director
Mitch Bjugson
Rendering service with good will as to the Lord and not to man. Knowing that whatever good anyone does, this he will receive back from the Lord Ephesians 6 This has been one of the most interesting years I have had in a long time. I basically retired one day and found myself volunteering at the church the next. From volunteering I found I was back in the job force as a part time Executive Director and by the end of the year signed up to be full time Executive Director. Well, all the fish I could have caught at West Point Lake will have to wait. The major responsibility of this job is managing the facilities. This summer a new playground was put in along with scrubbing and waxing all the classrooms and hallways, getting the carpets cleaned and walls painted. I want to thank all the volunteers that helped move all the furniture; this is not an easy job. With all the work being done, school started with excitement of a new school year. Staff Changes--Tina Hajducko, business manager, moved to South Carolina to join her husband. With the dedication of our volunteers, we did not miss a beat. Lynne Smith, Becky Dingler and Heather Stroud stepped right up to the plate and took over all the accounting duties. We are planning on hiring a part time bookkeeper this spring. I took over the HR part of Tinas job so everything kept running smoothly. Some other changes--We changed over from Cbeyond to Comcast business for both phone and internet for a much cheaper price and much, much faster internet speed. This also permitted us to go to digital phone service. We are constantly working with our HVAC systems to keep them going. To make room for Dr. Joel Dietrich, we built some new office space on the loft. We are in constant need of more space. We also improved the lighting by putting lighting in the lower main entrance canopy and the teachers entrance. Paul & Jeffrey Hudson painted the teachers break room upstairs. Gary Mellgren & Jim Richards painted classrooms. Bill Bonds is also constantly painting. In all, two classrooms, main office, staff room, and two staff offices were all painted. On the new building side, we negotiated with the Fayette County Education to purchase 1.5 acres for the appraised price and hope to close on this in January. I know I will miss some people but I want to thank Don Webb, Allen Vehrs, Paul Hudson, Buddy Collins, John Miller and especially Gary Mellgren, Property Chair for all the volunteer time they gave to St. Paul this year. Without them a lot of things would not have got done and they all saved us a lot of money. PROJECTS for 2013---During winter break we plan on painting the nursing area and bathroom. Throughout the year we plan on painting all the restrooms in the building. Looking forward to an exciting year. We are truly blessed at St. Paul. Mitch Bjugson Executive Director
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Capital Stewardship Campaign

CAPITAL STEWARDSHIP CAMPAIGN IMAGINE
In the spring of 2011, our congregation voted to approve the concept of building a new all-purpose community/worship center. The desire to provide additional space for our many mission and educational projects drove the need for this facility. Heaven is not full yet! became our motto. Many souls in our community are still without knowledge of the saving Gospel. All administrative offices will be housed in this new facility. Additional class rooms will thus become available in our present building, allowing new school curriculum to be offered. The necessary dollars to facilitate this school project will be included in our projected budget. So it was that in June of 2011, a contract was signed with the Lutheran Church Extension Fund to provide a program as well as a director to lead our Capital Stewardship Campaign. Pastor John Kieschnick was chosen as our consultant. The summer months were devoted to prayer and motivation. Leaders were chosen, and the congregation was engaged at all levels to claim ownership in our More Than We Can Imagine (Ephesians 3:20-21) campaign. Many Imagine functions were held during the month of October, 2011. The culmination of our efforts came on Commitment Sunday, November 6th. Congregation members as well as many friends of St. Paul came forward and presented pledges to our Lord now totaling more than 1.8 million dollars. To God be the glory! Now, by the close of 2012, our dedicated friends and faithful members have brought offerings totaling nearly 50% of this pledged amount. In an effort to avoid any additional long term debt, a provision has been agreed upon stipulating that no dirt will be turned until 70% of our pledged amount has been received. We now are well on the way toward that goal! As the Lord blesses, and as our people respond accordingly with their sacrificial offerings, we will be capable of beginning construction sooner rather than later. We also have completed considerable ground work to facilitate our progress. Additional acreage has been purchased to supply critical parking space. The Lord has provided us with an advisor, a chairperson, and a large group of volunteers for our building committee. A required property survey is underway which will provide a master site plan. Peachtree City officials have been contacted; we have requested them to award us the various permits and proper zoning in order to be in compliance with all existing codes and regulations. These many pages, which comprise our 2012 St. Paul Lutheran Ministries Report, summarize the blessings and multiple mission activities which you, the people of God, have achieved during the year now concluded. Under the Lords blessings, and with the generous, sacrificial giving of St. Pauls members and friends, we can look forward with thanksgiving to reaching that 70% goal, and our groundbreaking ceremonies, early in calendar year 2013. + soli deo gloria + Submitted with great love, joy, thanks-giving and anticipation Jim Bode, co-director.
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Youth Ministry
Dr. Joel Dietrich
The Youth Ministry of St. Paul is in a year of transition. We thank and praise God for the ministry of Cory Smith who was called to a new ministry in July. God is the God of the Church at large, not just St. Paul so we celebrate that Cory and the Smith family will continue in Gods work in Texas, and we know that God has plans for His people here in Peachtree City. After Cory moved on, Kiara Denholm (4th grade teacher at St. Paul) and Molly Millard (kindergarten teacher at St. Paul) stepped into the interim leadership role. Together with the support and leadership of the youth board they have kept the youth ministry rolling and are preparing for the next chapter in youth ministry at St. Paul. At the end of the year, Dr. Joel Dietrich accepted the call to be the minister to families and children at St. Paul. Joels role is to lift parents up as the primary teachers of the faith, building families and homes as the place for spiritual development and life impact. Included in this vision is the oversight of youth ministry. The youth board is in the process of connecting with Concordia University in Austin, Texas to get a DCE (Director of Christian Education) intern who will be in charge of our youth ministry moving forward. We hope to get our newest staff member in place this summer just in time for the National Youth Gathering. Dr. Joel Dietrich will be the supervisor of the intern, working with, mentoring, and teaming with this individual in youth and family ministry. 2013 promises to be an exciting year as we bring in this new DCE intern, head to San Antonio for the National Youth Gathering, create new ministry opportunities, and work with parents to nurture the faith of our young people. Please continue to pray for the youth ministry of St. Paul. First pray for our young people. Get to know them as you see them at church as specifically how you can be praying for them. Second pray for our incoming DCE intern. Pray that God would be preparing them for the ministry here in Peachtree City as well as pray that we would be prepared to welcome, love, and support this church worker. Pray for the volunteers and leaders of our youth ministry that God would bless their efforts, give us wisdom and knowledge as we seek to lead teenagers to Christ, and that our wills would be molded to His as we seek to create a Godly youth ministry
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Christian Education
Kimberly Ketola--Chair
Adult Christian Education Kimberly KetolaChair What is the purpose of the Board of Christian Education? The Board of Christian Education exists to enhance spiritual growth by providing opportunities to learn about Jesus Christ for new/curious/recent Christians, Biblical scholars, and everyone in between. 2012 Accomplishments Maintained existing groups: 5 adult Sunday school, 2 womens Bible study, and 5 small groups through the end of 2012, engaging over 125 members in at least one CE activity during the course of the year 6 new adult Sunday Bible studies began in January 2012, engaging over 60 members in at least one CE activity in the first two weeks of 2012 Co-ordinated with DD to maximize use of classroom meeting space Engaged congregation and school families utilizing emails, mailbox stuffers, newsletters, Sunday bulletin announcements and flyers, church website, and video promos LHM Booklets offered as a free biblical resource for meeting life challengesover 100 booklets distributed 2013 Plans/Goals/Ministry Ideas Expand adult classes during Spring and Fall sessions, and offer Summer sessions Identify, train, and equip more class facilitators Continue to utilize the St. Paul website to promote adult Sunday school Plan for additional midweek adult classes and small group offerings Longer Term Vision To inspire a love for Gods Word and a Bible in every persons hand during every sermon ~ either their own or one provided by St. Paul Lutheran during worship Strategic planning for curricula and meeting times Develop Adult/Family Wed evenings Guest speakers/lecturers Promote St. Pauls adult Sunday school curriculum in the community
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Stewardship
Greg Erath Chair
The members of the St. Paul Lutheran Stewardship Board are: Linda Anderson, Jim Bode, Carol Carruthers, Diane Cook, George Martin, Rick Maloney and Ross Smith What is the Stewardship Boards Purpose? The St. Paul Stewardship Board has two purposes, both anchored in scripture. Our primary, spiritual purpose is to encourage members to respond to Gods love, grace and generosity by dedicating their lives to spreading the gospel of Jesus Christ. Our institutional purpose is to encourage members to return to God his gifts of time, talents and finances and assist St. Paul in Bringing Christ into the home; transforming lives with eternal values. What did we do in 2012? Provided follow-through with new members, connecting them to church and school ministries and maximizing their early involvement in St. Pauls mission. Coordinated a Ministry Fair and Celebration Sunday to increase members knowledge about St. Pauls ministries and to encourage their participation. In conjunction with the fair, the board assisted with Celebration Sunday to encourage Time and Talents pledges and expand volunteers for St. Pauls ministries. Helped inaugurate a hospital visits ministry for ill or recovering members and families. Assisted in identifying members to chair the Outreach Ministry and Property Board. Acted as Fulfillment Team for the More Than We Can Imagine Capital Stewardship Campaign, helping to sustain enthusiasm for the campaign in reaching its goals. The Endowment Fund Committee, successfully chaired by Linda Anderson on behalf of the Stewardship Board chair, was very active and raised funds for the professional development of church and school staff. 2013 Plans and Goals Continue as Fulfillment Team for the Capital Stewardship Campaign. Conduct a Celebration Sunday and update the Time and Talents pledges; possibly coordinate another Ministry Fair to build service to church and school ministries. Continue assist with connecting new members to church and school ministries and help the heads of ministries to attract volunteers throughout the year. Coordinate presentations at worship services by ministry chairs about their ministries, upcoming programs and projects and the need for volunteers. Place articles about stewardship in the monthly church newsletter. Longer Term Vision Look for additional or new ways to build a spirit of stewardship at St. Paul and assist members to walk the walk, dedicating their lives to Christ. How are you seeking to fulfill the mission, vision, critical targets, and strategic goals? By encouraging our members spirit of dedication to Christ, the Stewardship Board impacts their connection to Jesus. A more dedicated and involved church body will carry Christ back into their homes and will help instill the Christ-like values that lead to spiritual growth. Dedicated, loving worshippers will desire to grow closer to and encourage one another in their faith walk, to support one another in their daily lives and be inspired to spread the Good News of salvation through Christ.
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Property
Gary Mellgren--Chair
2012 property board report 1. Three HVAC units replaced- rtu-3 serving music,4th,5th and 7th grade classrooms/ rtu-7 serving the kitchen/ rtu-2 serving library, computer lab and associated hallway. 2. Repairs were done on four other HVAC units. HVAC items are done by contractor. 3. Outdoor lights installed in lower main and southeast entryways; contractor installed..hooray! 4. MMO and two other classrooms were painted. Also painted were main office area/several individual offices/break room/several sections of hallway. Second floor janitorial closet-replaced water damaged sheetrock; splashboard to be installed to deter future water damage. 5. Gym- lower 12 courses now 80 percent painted. Gym and PTL storage areas had clear zones painted for fire department access. 6. Exterior storeroom cleaned and additional shelving installed. 7. Secure storage area was installed in one of the second floor storerooms. 8. Kitchen- ceiling tiles being replaced with sealed pieces. Improvements were made in the kitchen ventilation system. Roof wastewater vents were relocated away from air exchange vents. Most of it done in-house. 9. Outside curbing painted red to identify no parking areas, per request of PTC fire department. 10. Courtyard area- concrete area and benched were pressure washed. New mulch installed in garden areas. 11. New mulch installed in both playgrounds and several new pieces of playground equipment were installed. This was a joint project of Boy Scouts/PTL and Thrivent participants. 12. Custodian office relocated to the east gym upper deck; done by a local contractor for only the cost of materials. Projects planned for the coming year include painting at least 6 classrooms. The balance of rooms to be completed next year if not sooner. This depends on member participation. Kitchen to be repainted and splashblock material to be installed in the dishwash room. Exterior walls-plan to get pressure washed as much as possible. Some sidewalk repair is needed and eventually want to install new sidewalk to southeast entry door. Need to continue to install security lighting at all exterior doors. I am sure there is a lot more... Many thanks to members that provided labor and expertise for the upkeep of the building. Thank you to custodian Bill Bonds for his efforts. Also thanks to those individuals who arrange for funding for the upkeep of the building. Gary Mellgren/property chair
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Endowment Committee
The Reverend Dr. Ronald H. Janssen Memorial Endowment Fund Chair Linda Anderson The members of the Endowment Committee include: The Pastor Linda Anderson Congregational Treasurer David Worthington Bob Bixby Karen Michael Cindy Robertson The purpose of the Endowment Committee (EC) is to manage the Endowment Fund, the goal of which is to provide financial support to students of St. Paul Lutheran School and to St. Paul Lutheran Church members who are pursuing fulltime careers in professional church work or current staff desiring to advance their degrees in the Concordia system of our Lutheran Church-Missouri Synod. The EC meets to direct and transfer endowment gifts to the Lutheran Community Foundation (LCF) for the fund and to act as advisor of the LCF with respect to all administrative matters and the operation of the fund. determine and implement policies and procedures for soliciting, processing, and distributing grant requests in accordance with the requirements and guidelines of the fund. educate members and friends of St. Paul about the fund and to implement strategies that promote giving to the fund. In 2012, the Endowment Fund distributed funding ($1,000 each) for two St. Paul members who are pursuing full time careers as professional church workers. grew from $49,477.25 (01/01/12) to $62,515.26 (01/31/2013) 2012 contributions totaled $7,313.00 The main objectives for 2013 include raising awareness of the Endowment Fund, providing educational events about giving options and opportunities, and creating fund growth. How can the Endowment Committee help fulfill the mission of the congregation ? As it seeks to develop a vehicle designed to create a growing sources of income to assist members at St. Paul who desire a Christian education at St. Paul as well as those who enroll for studies related to full time church work in our Concordia University system, the Endowment supports Bringing Christ to the Home, Transforming Lives with Eternal Values, and Developing Fully Devoted Followers of Jesus Christ.
The Endowment Committee
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Outreach
Billie Nichols Co-Chair Chris Schwartz Co-Chair
The purpose of an Outreach Ministry is to reach out and touch those in the community who are in need of love, hope, and encouragement while at the same time addressing their physical and spiritual needs. St. Paul Lutheran Church is committed to communicating the love of Christ to our local community through service, evangelism and fellowship. Through some of the activities listed below, we can offer a safe environment for people to build trust with St. Paul and provide great opportunities for our members to invite their friends. And, finally, we all can demonstrate the love of God by offering to do acts of kindness and service to someone, without expecting something in return. 2012 Accomplishments Guest coffee cups filled with candy and church information (on-going) Easter Egg Hunt with the addition of Resurrection Eggs to tell the story of Easter to children of St. Paul Lutheran Church, students of St. Paul Lutheran Church and School, and to those in the community who are unchurched VBS One of the churchs biggest outreach activities. It is the Outreach Teams goal to get the word out into the community about Vacation Bible School at St. Paul Lutheran Church. Chris Schwartz was instrumental in designing the on-line pre-registration forms and generating class rosters. Met with Doe Evans, Principal of Crabapple Lane Elementary School to determine ways St. Paul Lutheran Church and School can partner with our neighbor. Provided a breakfast for staff of Crabapple Lane Elementary School and toured the school campus Included students from Crabapple Lane Elementary School in the St. Paul Lutheran Church Angel Tree Project Movie night coordinated by the Childrens Committee Outreach worked with the Childrens Committee by providing popcorn and goody bags for the children Childrens visit to local nursing home coordinated by Kim Langner 2013 Goals Continue with guest coffee cups with a few enhancements (candy bags, hard candy, pen and church literature) Work with Dr. Joel Dietrich on Easter Egg Hunt and Vacation Bible School projects Continue to partner with Crabapple Lane Elementary School Taking fresh baked goods to local police and firemen Distribute packets of seeds/prayer walk nearby subdivision Enter a team in the local Dragon Boat Races (we have been challenged by Christ Our Shepherd) Adopt a local highway Long-Term Goals: Meet with local government officials to determine the needs of our community and ways to partner with the officials to implement programs, New Mover Seminar/Workshop, Single Moms Oil Change, Feed local high school football team(s), Community Thanksgiving Dinner at St. Paul Lutheran Church
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Church Office Manager

Tammy Bjugson
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Colossians 3:23 Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for men,
I feel truly blessed to work side-by-side with staff and members, everyone who make up the body of St. Paul Lutheran Church & School. Pastor Schepmann talked many times about the St. Paul family and that is what makes St. Paul so special. What makes the St. Paul family so special? People taking care of people. When a member of the family is going through a hard time, Sharon Cook gets the prayer request written up and sent out via email to all the prayer warriors and they pray. Sue Cromie, head of comfort meals, makes sure families have meals when needed by sending out emails to her list of volunteers. Karla Henke leads a group who will make hospital visits when called. Carol Carruthers, Prayer Shawl Ministry, constantly makes sure that everyone who would like a prayer shawl from St. Paul gets one. What an awesome plan. We always need people to be part of these teams so if you feel like God is leading you to get involved, please contact the church office or one of the people mentioned above. Matthew 25:40, 40 The King will reply, I tell you the truth, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers of mine, you did for me. St. Paul is so blessed to have so many wonderful volunteers and this report could go on and on mentioning what everyone does but here are a few people who work behind-the-scenes for the year that I want to mention: Pam Erath, Andreia Chapman, Nathalia Yarri, Rich & Wilma Allison, Camilla Reeves, Kathy Savage, Becky Dingler, Lynne Smith, Joanne Mellgren, Kirsten Abresch, and Josh Bickhart. A big thank you to Sue Newman who continues to take pictures of all the confirmands each year and the yearly Easter congregational picture; Lisa Skinner makes the beautiful baptismal banners for each baptism that takes place at St. Paul; Dan McCauley and Jan Hudson are always willing to take pictures at baptisms and New Member Sundays. Again, this list could go on and on and these are only a few. I would like to thank St. Paul's "Faithful Folders". These four groups come faithfully on their scheduled Friday afternoon collating and putting together the weekly worship bulletins. Nancy Collins puts a yearly schedule together for the following groups. Allison Team: Wilma & Rich, Ethel Munson, Carol Carruthers, and Jean Pinkepank. Collins Team, Harry & Nancy and Allen & Vivian Vehrs, and Becky Dingler. Burdette Team, Lois and Larry Burdette, Dorothy Harms and Darlene Walker, Bode Team: Jim & Millie Bode, T.L & Shirley Walker, and Pat Byrne. Additional help when needed is Bill & Rose Meyers, Sue Cromie, and Ruth Plunkett. New endeavors in 2013: Keeping up with the changes. I will deeply miss working for Pastor Schepmann and miss the whole Schepmann family ,but at the same time I am very happy and excited as to what God has in store for them. With that being said, I look forward to what God has in store for St. Paul. What a joy it is to be part of the ministry at SPLC with you. To God be the glory!!
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School Principal and School Board

Disciples Love 2012 -2013 School Theme
Our Mission: St. Paul Lutheran School is a Christian educational institution driven by the power and presence of Jesus Christ. Our purpose is the spiritual, academic, emotional, social, and physical development of our students. In partnership with families, we provide a Christ-centered, academically excellent education in a safe, secure, nurturing environment at a cost not to exceed the necessary operating and capital expenses. As a result, the mission of St. Paul Lutheran Church and School is to: Bring Christ to the home Transform lives with eternal values Develop fully devoted followers of Jesus Christ. The 2012 -2013 school year marked our 15th anniversary of providing excellent Christian education to the Peachtree City area. In partnership with our parents and St. Paul Lutheran Church, our Christian educational experience strengthens the faith of our students and equips them with a strong academic foundation. Principal Jim Richards It is a true honor and privilege to serve as St. Paul Lutheran Schools principal. I thank God every single day for the many blessings found at St. Paul. As you read through the school section of this annual report, I pray you gain a better understanding of what is happening in our school and where we are headed in service to the children and families God has richly blessed us with. We continue to experience the countless blessings God showers upon our school ministry. We have had many families join our school and then become members of our church, join our church and then enroll in our school, and we have seen some families leave due to moving out of state, job loss, and even dissatisfaction. Led by the Holy Spirit, our entire staff is dedicated to the call to teach the students and make a meaningful impact on their lives and their families. No matter what changes and challenges occur in educating students, the love of God, the redemption and hope found in Jesus, and the calling of life and love found in the Holy Spirit remain the core of who and what we are. My vision and expectations for this school year centers on John 13:35: By this all people will know that you are my disciples, if you have love for one another. In fact, our school theme is Disciples: Love. God has called us to learn and grow in His love and then live our lives in response to that love. If we truly are His disciples, then we are to love one another. All year long we have been focusing on what it means to be ta disciple and to love. I thank you all for your prayers, support, time, and commitment to our school ministry. I thank you for your partnership and your patience with me. Please know how much the ministry happening at St. Paul Lutheran School matters. Please know how much you matter. In His Service, Jim Richards, Principal
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St. Paul School Board The St. Paul Lutheran School Board is a group of dedicated congregational members who enthusiastically work to support and provide a vision for the long-term health of the school ministry. The St. Paul Lutheran School Vision stated above is aligned with the overall ministry mission, as the board constantly revisits that vision, seeks to measure progress, identify improvement opportunities and collectively work with the school staff and PTL to ensure St. Paul Lutheran School is actively impacting the mission-field. The School Board employs a Policy Governance Model to guide our structure and operating methods. This model focuses the board on looking at the long term strategic vision of our school ministry, while providing the board with a clear method for process monitoring, execution of activities, and linking to stakeholders. The principal's actions are governed by Executive Limitation policies and monthly monitoring reports of performance against the stated policies to the School Board. The School Board members serve to support the principal and staff as needed in activities ranging from staffing committees, to budget committees, and planning activities. The School Board also reviews the annual school parent survey for trends and actions to continuously improve the school Current School Board Membership The School board consists of 5 to 9 congregational voting members, a board chairperson, the Principal, a faculty representative, with the Pastor and Congregational President as ex-officio members. The current School Board members are Jeff Haas Chair Bruce Karas Sue Munson Robert Bixby Steven Scruggs Kelli Barber Dan Di Giusto Jennifer Goode: Faculty Representative Jim Richards: Principal
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2012 Challenges and Accomplishments St. Paul Lutheran School Enrollment History
The enrollment of students in our school continues to offer blessings and challenges. We were blessed this past year with twenty-seven new students. However, the overall enrollment decreased from 204 students to 186 students for the 2012-2013 school year. We conducted exit interviews of families who did not enroll this past school year and found the following: The majority of families who left did so due to the financial struggle to pay tuition and fees. Several families did not enroll due to the 6th grade being having a maximum enrollment We also repeatedly heard that some families did not reenroll because we do not have a High School. A few families did not enroll due to dissatisfaction.
Current Enrollment: St. Paul Lutheran School's enrollment in 2012-2013 has decreased from the previous year's total enrollment (186 vs. 204) Due to diligent budgeting preparation; the enrollment number exceeded the budgeted enrollment of 183 students. We go into the 2012-2013 open enrollment with clear growth targets. Financial Assistance Program and the School as Outreach - Results 2011 2012 school year - 47 children received the gift of a Lutheran Education with support from the financial assistance process. Current school year, - 45 children received the gift of a Lutheran Education with support of the financial assistance Seven School Families joined the SPLS congregation in the last year . Many children would have been denied a Christian education if our financial assistance program was not in affect. Lives have truly been touched by the generosity demonstrated by the sacrificial giving of our church and school members in order to expand our financial assistance.
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Academic Performance Comparison with Fayette County Schools 2011 -2012. Fayette County Schools take the Iowa Test of Basic Skills (ITBS) in the 3rd, 5th and 8th grade. SPLS students take the test each year as a means of ensuring the curriculum is keeping our students on track and to allow the faculty to make adjustments in programs and approach. Since its inception in 1997, SPLS performs in the top 5% as compared to National performance and outperforms Fayette County public schools at each comparator grade. 2011-2012 ITBS results place SPLS at the 94th Percentile nationally SPLS middle school students outperform Fayette county middle schools on ITBS averages and enter high school very well prepared. 2011-2012 results show the entire SPLS middle school at least at the 97 percentile compared nationally
Blessings and Challenges: Staff: Our very own Mr. Mark Abresch was named the Florida-Georgia Middle School Teacher of the Year. Mark was recognized at the District Educators Conference this past September. Mark received this award for his expert teaching abilities, his dedication to his students, and his service to the church, school, and community. Mark joins Mrs. Linda Anderson as St. Paul Lutheran Schools Teacher of the Year recipients. Ms. Kiara Denholm and Ms. Molly Millard successfully completed their first year teaching at St. Paul. They both did a fantastic job and meshed well with our staff. Kiara and Molly also stepped up worked with the Youth Group after Cory Smith and family moved to Texas. Mrs. Jennifer Goode was hired to teach 6th grade homeroom and Middle School Language Arts with Mrs. Smiths departure. Mrs. Goode has brought a wealth of knowledge and experiences to our staff and we look forward to working with her for many years to come. Mrs. Good went on Maternity Leave at the end of October as the Goode family was blessed with the birth of their third child; Olivia. Mrs. Langford continued teaching math and computers as well as taking on the responsibilities of our library when our previous librarian, Mrs. Bedrossian, accepted a full time position at another school. Pastor Rob Maulella was hired a month after the current school year started due to the previous Spanish teachers need to resign to take care of her family. Professionals: We have a top-notch teaching staff that has state certifications. These educators are passionate about teaching and inspiring students to do their very best. St. Paul is blessed to have a very high percentage of our teachers who are synodically trained. In fact, sixty percent of our full-time teaching staff have been synodically trained. Lutheran schools in the Florida-Georgia District average is closer to forty percent synodical teachers. A teacher is considered synodically trained if the teacher has graduated from one of the Concordia University teaching programs or has completed a colloquy program offered by the Lutheran Church-Missouri Synod. Our teachers work to grow professionally and participate in local in-service opportunities. We are challenged financially to provide more opportunities for professional growth as well as remuneration for required academic classes that teachers must take for certification. We are also challenged financially to find ways to compensate our teachers closer to what Fayette County public schools pay their teachers. In spite of the financial challenges our teachers face, they continue to make a difference in the classroom, the church, and the community. Through their dedication and passion for teaching, lives are being changed and students are growing in their faith. St. Paul Lutheran School teachers are incredible individuals who are a true blessing for the students, families, and the overall ministry of St. Paul Lutheran.
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Serving: Our faculty continues to shine by serving the students and families God has blessed us with and by serving our entire ministry as well as the community. Did you know that St. Paul faculty members have/(are): Taught and are currently teaching Destination Disciple classes? Led groups or taught specific classes during VBS? Served on boards or committees? Participated in small group Bible study? Participated in Adult Bible Study between Sunday services? Organized and implemented food and clothing drives? Volunteered in community events? Went on mission trips? Have organized student initiatives that promote service to others? Childrens message? Volunteered to help serve during fellowship opportunities? Have volunteered coaching for the school and the community? Home Visits: Each year our teachers visit with each of their students families prior to the school year starting. They do this to begin the process of relationship building. It is a time for the teachers and families to have a meaningful conversation about goals for the school year as well as a way to have a personal orientation. Most importantly, it is a time for the teacher, student, and family to connect in a manner that starts the year off right. This effort by our teachers is a powerful example of how important we believe it is to develop the partnership between the school and home. The principal receives numerous positive comments about how meaningful the home visits are. Our teachers have also benefited tremendously from the home visits as they have been able to understand their students families in a more personal way. We also believe that home visits have viewed by some folks in the community as something unique for our school. Academics: We continue to hear how well prepared St. Paul Lutheran School students are for their next educational experience. Our students experience a rigorous curriculum that is challenging and creative. Our students work hard and their academic foundations are solid. In fact, our students scored in top 5% in the entire nation according to the Iowa Test of Basic Skills. (ITBS) ITBS SCORES: GRADE K 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 TOTAL READING 77 81 94 80 87 87 91 97 96 88 LANGUAGE 74 68 72 78 83 91 96 86 99 83 MATH 57 68 66 89 82 73 86 83 98 78 SOCIAL STUDIES X 86 95 90 92 89 85 93 98 91 SCIENCE X 85 74 83 90 89 92 92 97 88 TOTAL 77 91 94 97 98 97 98 99 99 94
Duke Tip: The Duke Talent Identification Program (TIP) is a program that recognizes students in the 7th grade who score at the 95 percentile or higher on certain achievement tests. This program is a way to recognize academic talent. We have been blessed to have 16 students qualify over the past two school years.
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Fine Arts: We are blessed to have a fantastic fine Arts program. Students are able to participate in the following opportunities: Upper Grade Chorus Yearbook Art Beginning Band Advanced Band Chapel Band Our Chorus, Advanced Band, Beginning Band, and Chapel Band all scored a SUPERIOR rating (the highest rating a group can receive) at last years FL-GA Lutheran Music Festival. Sports: Our students shine on the Athletic field. They not only compete against area Christian schools but do it with class and good sportsmanship. The following activities are available for students to shine in: Soccer Basketball Volleyball Track The Girls Varsity basketball team won our league Championship last year. Clubs: St. Paul Lutheran School is blessed to offer students a series of clubs enabling them to explore their interests. Clubs are led by faculty members, parent volunteers, and congregational members who all have incredible talents and abilities to share. We have been able to offer the following opportunities to our students: Archery Beta Club Newspaper Bike Riding Rock Climbing Sewing Service Club Sign language Guitar Science Club Aerobics Photography Golf International Cooking Parent Teacher League (PTL): We have an outstanding PTL, which is dedicated to building relationships, providing fellowship activities, supporting our teachers, and providing for the needs of our students. We have so much to be thankful for, as the leaders of our PTL have given so much of their time, talents, and treasures to this critical part of our program. The following are some of the highlights of our PTL Raised close to $60,000 for support to St. Paul Lutheran School over the past two years. Fall Carnival Frostbite 5 K (Had over 331 runners in 2013) Auction that raised over to $23,000. Connecting families Provided for technology needs for the school Provided for a mini-computer lab in the 6th grade classroom
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Provided assistance for curriculum needs. Funded the purchase of marketing materials. Organized and provided for the Field Day at the conclusion of the school year. Funded assemblies and guest speakers Provided funding and assistance for Grandparents Day. Hosted a welcome to school dinner for new families. Provided ways for new families to get involved.
Accreditation: School accreditation is a critical component of school improvement that St. Paul Lutheran School has always taken seriously. We believe it is a way to be evaluated in a thorough objective way. The rigor involved in completing the accreditation process and then maintaining the designation is accomplished by our dedicated staff and volunteers. Organizations that grant accreditation evaluate everything from a schools curriculum to the staff to procedures to even the cleanliness of the restrooms. We work very hard at following the goals and objectives necessary for accreditation. We also strive to accomplish the recommendations that these organizations either require or suggest for school improvement. We are currently accredited by the following organizations: National Lutheran Schools Accreditation Agency Florida-Georgia Lutheran School District Georgia Accrediting Commission: We were informed this past fall that we received a distinction called Accredited with Quality. This distinction is one of their highest levels they offer for K-8 schools. Georgia Bright from the Start Bryce Anderson: Our entire Church and School family was deeply saddened with the death of Bryce Anderson due to complications from Leukemia. Bryce was a fun-loving, energetic second grader at St. Paul. He had a curious mind, loved sports, and made friends with ease. He was a true blessing and will always remain in our hearts and minds. The unfortunate tragedy brought the St. Paul family together to support the Andersons. Meals, errands and prayers where organized by school and church members. There were many impromptu vigils celebrating Bryces life. On-site counseling was made available to students, parents and staff. St. Paul School Dreaming: We look to the future with excitement as we plan to continue the tradition of excellence in Christian education that St. Paul Lutheran School is known for. We face many challenges ahead as the cost of running St. Paul Lutheran School continues to rise. We are continuing to work on methods to build our revenues through other endeavors in addition to our tuition. As you read some our goals, please pray that we find ways to glorify God in these areas by serving Him to the best of our abilities. Build enrollment so more students can grow in their faith and experience the fantastic education that St. Paul Lutheran School delivers. Connect more families to St. Paul Lutheran Church. Reach out to the community as a mission field to bring more people to Christ. Provide more service opportunities for our students and families. Offer more extra-curricular activities for our students. Reconfigure the school (as the new sanctuary is being built) that dedicates areas for fine arts. Reconfigure the school office to include an area where parents and visitors can congregate for fellowship. Possibly make the entrance more welcoming. Revitalize our library and provide more opportunities for congregational use. Upgrade our computer lab and teacher laptops as needed Purchase e readers or devices similar to Kindles. The goal is to eventually have all the students textbooks on one had held device per student.
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Fund and develop the 21st Century Classroom. Each classroom would have Smart Boards, Computer Projectors, Distance Leaning Capability, sound and video enhancements, additional clicker response systems, and document cameras. Review curriculum areas and adopt new textbooks as needed. Continue to expand and enhance the band program. Partner with area Christian churches that do not have a Christian school. Build our school scholarship fund to provide assistance for more families. Utilize the funding opportunities form the state of Georgia through the Georgia State Income Tax student scholarship program. Encourage and provide a means for professional development and advanced degrees for our teachers. Increase our partnership with Alumni Increase awareness and commitment to the endowment fund
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Director of Admissions
Director of Admissions Report/Deanne Scruggs
Job Description The Director of Admissions takes the lead in all families interested in and visiting our school. When families call, they receive all pertinent information available with the goal of having them to visit/tour our school. Following their tour, the family receives numerous items such as thank yous, follow up phone calls, and inviting children to be an Eagle for the Day. The Eagle for the day program - allows children to visit the classroom for half a day and to be specially recognized and made to feel welcome. During their visit, the child has the opportunity to meet the teacher, students, and have lunch with the class they would join. Throughout the day pictures are sent home to the parents, giving highlights of the day. Following a prospective visit, our St. Paul kids send them a thank you signed by the entire class. We have found this to be an invaluable part of the decision process and gives the child(ren) a voice as to whether or not they want to come to our school. This program has proven to be a pivotal moment for the admissions process. Once the child has a positive experience at our school during the Eagle for a Day experience, the decision typically results in a new student attending St Paul. In fact, 100% of the students who have participated in this program have followed up by bringing in their paperwork immediately, or a few days after their visit. The Director of Admissions is also responsible for open houses, publicity, advertising and filling openings in each class. This all is to be done in a 20 hour week. Office hours are Monday, Wednesday and Friday 8-1, unless requests are made for a different day and schedules are adjusted accordingly. The Director of Admissions also answers emails at home so that follow up is immediate and also spends time in our surrounding community promoting St. Paul Lutheran School. Visits are made to surrounding child care programs and other area preschools and schools. The Director of Admissions also attends Chamber of Commerce meetings for both Fayette and Coweta counties. Current Projects: *New packet w/school logo and updated information *Mentor family program for all new families-This program pairs families with similar families to nurture and guide them through the new family process. Also gives them the opportunity to start a lasting friendship while joining the St. Paul family. *Alumni Program-Contact with all graduating students. Using their triumphs and challenges in testimonials on website and advertising pieces. *Redistricting is adding an additional opportunity. We are doing a minimum of three tours a week. *Exit interviews-exit interviews are sent to those who have not re-registered, but sadly very few are filled out. Phone calls are made as follow up, but many do not want to speak to someone on staff. Follow up should be done by a third party who is willing to convey this message. My Goals and Dreams for this position: The blessings and benefits of this 20 hour/week position has already produced very positive and tangible results. To fully utilize the capacity of this position, my dream would be for this to become a full-time position. Many additional hours are spent on phone/email at home trying to follow up with families after their work hours. Many families are lost
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because they never speak to the same person twice. In the directors absence, calls are handled by those with many other duties. You only get once to make a first impression. With a 20 hour work week, there is no additional time to follow up/retain families already within our school. Need to do more work on that front. These families refer very few families. They should be our largest form of advertising.
Benefits of this ministry position: There are numerous blessings and benefits to this job. The number one benefit is that the new families have a point of contact just for them. On the childs first day of school, they are greeted by the director and parents see a familiar face. Pictures are sent to the parents, from the director throughout the day, showing how the children are adapting, giving our new parents positive feedback and affirmation in making the decision to send their child(ren) to St. Paul. Meeting these new families and making them a part of the St. Paul family is the most rewarding part of the directors job. Additional benefits are seeing how our school makes a difference in the lives of these children and families. Every family has a story and a reason for visiting. Part of the directors job is finding out what that family needs, and showing them how the ministry of St. Paul Lutheran Church and School can help fulfill those needs.
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Director of Development
Kim Langner
But just as you excel in everything in faith, in speech, in knowledge, in complete earnestness and in your love for us see that you also excel in the grace of giving. 2 Corinthians 8:7 I feel blessed beyond words to have had the opportunity to assist the ministry of St. Paul Lutheran Church and School. A BIG blessing of the Private School Tax Credit Program is the fact that in 2012 we were able to generate a total of $28,980 tax credit dollars. This compares to approximately $13,000 generated in 2011. I have worked to get the word out about this wonderful opportunity for St. Paul Lutheran School. We formed a partnership with Charles Wilkinson, Director of Development at Faith Lutheran, Marietta. This partnership has produced the potential of additional revenues generated between St. Paul, Faith Lutheran Marietta and Christ, East Point. This partnership will enhance and promote the value of Lutheran Private School Education by recruiting financial resources via potential grants, endowments, etc. The Georgia Qualified Education Expense Tax Credit Program is a great program designed to assist students and their families with scholarship funding so they may have school choice. This program allows you to have control over how part of your state tax dollars are used. In May 2008, the State of Georgia passed legislation (HB 1133/325), which allows you to contribute your Georgia State Income Tax dollars to the private school of your CHOICE. This is a great program designed to assist students and their families with scholarship funding so they may be able to have school choice. This opportunity might not otherwise be afforded to them without these funds. The taxpayer receives a dollar for dollar credit on their state taxes and may receive a deduction on their federal taxes. This is a winwin for you the taxpayer, the students at St. Paul, as well as the overall ministry of St. Paul Lutheran School. How do I contribute to St. Paul Lutheran Church and School? Obtain Pre-approval form and Donor Designation form from School/church office/teacher or I can e-mail info directly to you. Please e-mail me at klangner@stpaulptc.org. You may also obtain additional information from our newly created website stpaulscholarships.com Send Pre-approval form (IT-QEE-TP1), Donor Designation Form, and your donation check (payable to GASSO, Inc.). Mail everything to: GASSO INC. P.O. Box 1752 Cumming, GA. 30028 GASSO will electronically file for approval with Georgia Department of Revenue (GADOR). GASSO will track and receive the approval for the Donor. GASSO sends back to you the donor all documents needed to file with your tax returns the following year. Georgia Student Scholarship Organization (GASSO) is a Student Scholarship Organization (SSO). www.gascholarships.org. This is the Student Scholarship Organization that St. Paul Lutheran Church and School has decided to partner with.
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For additional information: Georgia Department of Education (DOE) www.doe.k12.ga.us. Georgia Department of Revenue (DOR) www.etax.dor.ga.gov.
Donation timeline and additional facts: Due to the fact that the credits are available each year on a first come first served basis time is of the essence. The tax credit cap of $51,500,000 was met on August 13th 2012. It is anticipated that the new credit cap of $52,375,500 will be reached by mid to late May 2013. Once you send in your information it will take approximately 30 days for approval. After DOR sends approval to GASSO the school is notified that scholarship funds are available. I look forward to making this program as successful as possible for our church and school. We need teamwork to get the word out about this great opportunity. It is vitality important that we get as many involved in this as possible. This program is as successful as we make it. It is a win-win for you and the ministry of St. Paul Lutheran Church and School.
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School Office Manager

Joanne Poole
In this my fifth year as serving as your School Office Manager it has been no less challenging or inspirational than my first! Being a part of the ministry at St. Paul has been a gift in more ways than words can express. The love, laughter and patience of our ministry team are one of the privileges for which I thank Him! Working for and with many of you is an experience I cherish as you really have made the job of School Office Manager less of a job for me! The talents of our staff and volunteers are immeasurable and the time that is spent making everything happen is nothing short of amazing! My many responsibilities include, but are not limited to accounts receivable, admissions, graduation, communication, faculty support and managing the daily events of the school day which are less than predictable (just ask a volunteer)! Without them these responsibilities would not be accomplished! Many, many thanks to the following lovely ladies who are committed to cover the reception desk and who hold me up each day. Monica Cooper, Laurie Kopca, Mary Klitten, Nancy Shaw, Ronda Swartz, Patti Moore, Sandy Strombom, Kelly Pickett, Camilla Reeves, Michelle Ellis, Sasha Pope and Leigh Chapple! What a blessing these ladies are to our ministry. Is the Holy Spirit at work at St. Paul? You bet it is! All you have to do is look around. Our Lord is here and He has chosen each one of us to be His disciples. Together we can accomplish so much in His name! I am honored to not only be able to offer administrative support but also to be a member of the St. Paul family! So much has taken place since our doors first opened. I look forward to what He has in store for us in 2013, and am looking forward to serving alongside you as we continue to grow in size and spirit! In His service and yours, Joanne Poole
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2012 Annual Report

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2012 Annual Report

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Paul Lutheran Ministries Annual Report 2011

2012 Annual Report

St. Paul Lutheran Ministries Annual Report 2012

2010-2011 Ministry Staff . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Tammy Bjugson. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3

Congregational President . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Daniel Langner . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. . . .2

St. Paul Lutheran Ministries Annual Report - 2012

Executive Director. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Mitch Bjugson . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ..14

Capital Campaign. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Jim Bode/Kevin Brown . . . . . .. . . . .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. . . . . .15 Dr. Joel Dietrich . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. . . . . . . .. . . . . . . .. . . .. . . 16

Elders. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Mike King. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13

St. Paul Lutheran Ministries Annual Report 2012

St. Paul Lutheran Ministries Annual Report 2012

2012-2013 Ministry Staff

St. Paul Lutheran Ministries Annual Report 2012

2012 Official Acts

St. Paul Lutheran Ministries Annual Report 2012

Transfer In: Peaceful Release:

St. Paul Lutheran Ministries Annual Report 2012

Congregational Membership and Weekly Worship Trends

St. Paul Lutheran Ministries Annual Report 2012

$700,000 $600,000 $500,000

139,630 415,251 554,882 5,125,768 5,125,768 5,680,650

The 2012-2013 Budget

St. Paul Lutheran Ministries Annual Report 2012

Interim 6-month financial statements ending December 2012

St. Paul Lutheran Ministries Annual Report 2012

484,008 651,653 1,135,660 5,125,768 5,125,768 6,261,429

St. Paul Lutheran Ministries Annual Report 2012

St. Paul Lutheran Ministries Annual Report 2012

St. Paul Lutheran Ministries Annual Report 2012

St. Paul Lutheran Ministries Annual Report 2012

St. Paul Lutheran Ministries Annual Report 2012

Capital Stewardship Campaign

St. Paul Lutheran Ministries Annual Report 2012

St. Paul Lutheran Ministries Annual Report 2012

St. Paul Lutheran Ministries Annual Report 2012

St. Paul Lutheran Ministries Annual Report 2012

St. Paul Lutheran Ministries Annual Report 2012

The Endowment Committee

St. Paul Lutheran Ministries Annual Report 2012

St. Paul Lutheran Ministries Annual Report 2012

Church Office Manager

St. Paul Lutheran Ministries Annual Report 2012

School Principal and School Board

St. Paul Lutheran Ministries Annual Report 2012

St. Paul Lutheran Ministries Annual Report 2012

St. Paul Lutheran Ministries Annual Report 2012

St. Paul Lutheran Ministries Annual Report 2012

St. Paul Lutheran Ministries Annual Report 2012

St. Paul Lutheran Ministries Annual Report 2012

St. Paul Lutheran Ministries Annual Report 2012

St. Paul Lutheran Ministries Annual Report 2012

St. Paul Lutheran Ministries Annual Report 2012

St. Paul Lutheran Ministries Annual Report 2012

St. Paul Lutheran Ministries Annual Report 2012

St. Paul Lutheran Ministries Annual Report 2012

School Office Manager

St. Paul Lutheran Ministries Annual Report 2012

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