transformational ministry in the city

growth in numbers
global outreach
New Churches

Minneapolis Area Synod

122 W Franklin Ave, Ste 600
Minneapolis, MN 55404
612.870.3610 www.mpls-synod.org
V
ital mission needs passionate peo-
ple. And that is what "Making a
World of Difference" is all about.
This campaign began with a grass roots
strategic plan to link congregations and
financial resources to an ever-expanding
list of opportunities for growing this
church together.

Now we are nearing the end of Phase 1 of

our funding efforts. Nearly $4 million has
been identified to invest in the approved projects of the
strategic initiative. Already, congregations and individuals
are being blessed. Half of our congregations are involved
with this program in one way or another.

It is my hope and prayer that each of you can identify a proj-

ect that parallels your passion for moving us forward - as a
synod, as a church family, and as a wider community.

Bishop Craig E. Johnson

September 2006

T
he synod theme for Bishop Craig
Johnson's term in office is "Growing
This Church Together." The theme
is built around a timeless understanding
of the Church as the Body of Christ and
that we are "members one of another." All
of us are responsible for the "whole
church" on Earth. We will "grow this
church together." The strategic plan for
making this happen and the campaign to
find the resources flies under the banner
of "Making A World of Difference." So many organizations
want to "make a difference" and are doing good work. The
Church alone has the charter to make a world of difference
in the lives of individuals and in communities through the
power of the gospel. We all want God to use us in "Making
A World of Difference." Our Lord is Jesus. His mission is
now. Our task is glorious.

Dennis J. Johnson
Bishop's Associate

2
 Celebrate!
Making A World of Difference was officially launched at the
2005 spring assembly. Since that time, over 30 congregations
and 50 individual giving units have invested (gifts and
pledges) over $2 million in the approved mission projects.
Another $1.6 million has come to us through a combination
of sale of property, the Thrivent Lutheran Grant Program,
and ELCA dollars. More responses are coming in daily.

Our first Making A World of Difference catalog appeared

in August 2005. We reprint that catalog now to add new
projects and to remove projects that have been fully funded.

We celebrate the following transformational congregations

whose proposals have found funding partners and are well
launched into a new phase of their ministries. Those congre-
gations are:

Redeemer on Glenwood Ave

City South Cluster
Luther Memorial
St. Paul's Lutheran
Oromo Lutheran Church

We celebrate Global Mission Companion Synod projects

funded:

Three students in Nigeria are receiving scholarships.

Wells have been dug and mid-wives trained in a partnership
with Global Health Ministries.

Growing the Numbers

We celebrate 25 coaches trained and 24 congregations enlist-
ed in Natural Church Development.

We celebrate the following New Starts made possible

through Making A World of Difference:

Mercy Seat, Northeast Minneapolis

Credit River Township
Living Presence, Blaine
Sudanese Lutheran Church, Anoka

We celebrate the accelerated growth of our younger churches

through support generated by Making A World of Difference:

Alleluia! St. Michael - Albertville

New Life, Oak Grove
Spirit of Joy, Buffalo

Making A World of Difference seeks additional gifts neces-

sary for the thriving of these new and younger congregations.

3
Suggestions for Successfully Involving
Your Congregation
* Pray for God's mission in general and for this initiative in
particular. Pray that God would lead your congregation to
discern its mission within the "Making A World of
Difference" campaign.

* Be informed about the four initiatives of the campaign.

Study this resource guide which lists all of the current mis-
sion opportunities. Check the synod website, www.mpls-
synod.org, for the most recent updates.

* Generate conversation within your congregation about

"Making A World of Difference." Ask, "What is the passion
our members already have for mission? What projects
would fire the imagination and inspire generosity and
have the most potential for congregational involvement?"

* Start with the appropriate committee in your church; for

example, the Committee on Outreach, Global Mission, or
the Congregation Council.

* Invite a member of the "Making A World of Difference"

advisory team or a synod staff member to make a presen-
tation to the congregation. Call Carolyn O’Grady at
612.230.3318 to arrange for a visitor to your church. Invite
those who are seeking partners for their ministries to visit
with the congregation to talk further about partnership
and what it might mean. You may also choose to make an
on-site visit.

* The Congregation Council, with input from members and

appropriate committees, should determine a decision-mak-
ing process for choosing a project and identifying a fund-
ing level. The council may provide a plan for how gifts
will be sought within the congregation.

Prayer
And his gifts were that some should be apostles, some pastors and
teachers, to equip the saints for the work of ministry, for the build-
ing up of the body of Christ, until we all attain to the unity of the
faith and of the knowledge of the Son of God. Ephesians 4:11-13

Almighty God, you have blessed each of us with unique

gifts, and you have called us into specific occupations, rela-
tionships, and activities using those gifts. Enable us to use
our talents to witness to our faith in you and to communicate
your love to the people we meet each day. Empower us to be
ministers of your reconciliation, love, hope, and justice as we
go forth with our great vision for "Making A World of
Difference." Give us strength, courage, and patience. Keep us
steadfast in our commitment to serve actively in your name:
Jesus, who is the Christ. Amen
4
New Churches Design Team New Churches
Rev. Blair Anderson
Mr. Jesse Benson
Mr. Sheldon Fewer
Mr. Rob Hanson
Rev. Steve Haschig
Rev. Bob Hoyt
Rev. David Lechelt
Rev. Richard Mork
Ms. Susan Olsen
Rev. Jerry Wahl

5
 Alleluia! Lutheran Church, St. Michael
Background and Mission
Alleluia! Lutheran Church is a new mission planted in the
booming suburbs of St. Michael and Albertville. In spring
1998, 50 people began meeting for worship. They have grown
to 400 members! In January 2005, Alleluia! moved from the
high school auditorium to the vacated historic St. Michael
Catholic Church which will be their home until they can
build. Alleluia! ministers to families building homes in the
area (about 500 a year). Staff includes the pastor, music direc-
tor (part-time), office manager (part-time) and director of
spiritual gifts (part-time). Alleluia!’s ministry is bold and live-
ly with many active small groups, mission trips, Vacation
Bible School, Sunday School, and many other facets.

Partner Support Needed

Thrivent has given a $15,000 per year matching grant for three
years. The grant will be used to implement a full range of pro-
grams to enhance spiritual growth, discipleship and leader-
ship for ministry. Partners are needed to supply the match.

The Jeremiah Project...Buy the Land!

In 2001, Alleluia! purchased 21 acres of land on the outside
edge of the present development boom in St. Michael. The
current plan is to build a Worship and Ministry Center by
2007-2008. If it is not built by the fall of 2009, the original
owner of the land has the option to buy it back, so time is of
the essence. Alleluia! is praying for mission partners to join
in the vision and mission. Alleluia! has conducted two capi-
tal campaigns for debt reduction (current debt is $500,000).

Contact
Jake Dyrhaug, pastor, 763.497.5816

Credit River New Start

Mission
Bishop Craig Johnson has announced a new mission start in
Scott County, one of the fastest growing counties in
Minnesota. Acting on the recommendation of the
Minneapolis Area Synod Vista Team and the New Churches
Design Team, the synod council issued a call to Steve
Bonoshoe to be the mission developer. He began his work on
June 1, 2006.

This mission is being sponsored by Prince of Peace,

Burnsville and Shepherd of the Lake, Prior Lake. Steve will
be on the staff of both churches and will recruit members of
those congregations to go with him into this new mission
start. The pastors will provide mentoring and office support
assistance. St. Mary Magdalene will also provide volunteer
support. The ELCA is a funding partner and Making A
World of Difference will seek additional congregational
and/or individual partners.
6
Partners Still Needed
One partner at $20,000 per year for three years

Contact
Steve Bonoshoe, pastor/developer 952.230.2988
Dennis Johnson, bishop’s associate, 612.230.3306

Living Presence Lutheran Church, Blaine

Mission
A new congregation will be developed in the northern section
of Blaine where it is projected that 700 homes per year will be
built over the next 15 years. With solid support at the start,
this congregation will become self supporting in a shorter
time than the norm. Born in “mission,” this congregation will,
in turn, become a “church-planting congregation.”

Status
Pastor Matt Flom began his work in Blaine on May 1, 2005.
Flom, a former associate pastor at Nativity Lutheran Church,
St. Anthony, was commissioned by that congregation, and
members have been encouraged to be part of this adventure
in mission. Christ the King, New Brighton has given one
major gift to launch this congregation and a second major
gift to be used for land purchase.

Support Needed
$15,000 per year for three years for operating expenses. This
new start was recently given a Thrivent grant of $15,000 per
year for three years. Now, Living Presence needs a partner
to match those funds.

Seven mission founders at $50,000 per year for four years, or

combinations of smaller gifts designated over a period of
time for donors’ convenience.

The North Conference churches are working together to pro-

vide financial and prayer support for this new start.

The Jeremiah Project...Buy the Land!

Land costs today are high, especially in this rapidly develop-
ing area. Cost for ten acres is $1.9 million. The purchase has
been made by the Mission Investment Fund of the ELCA.
Congregational partners and individuals are needed to help
pay down the loan which will be $1.4 million. Living
Presence will carry a $500,000 mortgage as they enter into a
capital program for a new building.

Contact
Matt Flom, pastor, 651.485.6968
Dennis Johnson, bishop’s associate, 612.230.3306
Jerry Wahl, bishop’s associate, 612.230.3315

7
 Mercy Seat
Mission
Mercy Seat is a creative response to a growing need for criti-
cal-thinking, grace-based Christian orthodoxy, especially
among urban young adults. The mission is to proclaim the
Good News of Jesus Christ in creative and socially conscious
ways, to become a laboratory for liturgical renewal, to
reclaim the power of the “visible Word” of the sacrament,
and to empower the worshiping community to live out
God’s grace in the world.

Mercy Seat sponsors music concerts and art exhibits, and

thereby is becoming widely known as it provides a venue for
area musicians and artists. Worship is held Saturdays at 5:00
p.m. at St. Paul’s Lutheran Church, Central and Lowry, in
Northeast Minneapolis.

Thrivent has given this new start a grant of $15,000 per year
for three years designated for outreach Signature Events.

Support Needed
Mercy Seat seeks partners who cumulatively can provide
$140,000 in 2006, and $140,000 in 2007 and $70,000 in 2008.

Mercy Seat’s goal is to be self-supporting in five years.

Congregations/individuals are needed who might support
one or more of the pastors’ salaries or that of a musician, or
contribute to other expenses of this new ministry start.
Pastors Kae Evensen, Kyle Halverson, and Mark Stenberg
have been called by the Minneapolis Area Synod to serve as
mission developers.

Contact
Mercy Seat, 612.789.1777
www.nemercy.org

New Life Lutheran Church, Oak Grove

Mission
New Life Lutheran Church began worship in 1999. In 2001,
the congregation bought ten acres of land and a convenience
store. The congregation has grown to 200 baptized. Of the
members, 60% were not active in any church prior to joining
New Life. The congregation currently receives financial sup-
port from partners at $35,200 per year. By investing more in
this congregation at this time in its life, we will hasten the day
when no support is needed and the congregation becomes a
“mission partner” with other churches needing help.

Goal
Accelerating growth in numbers to move toward a building
program.

8
Support Needed
* $9,400 per year for three years for administrative support
(currently 10 hours per week, need is 20 hours per week)
* $15,000 per year for three years for part-time Youth and
Family ministry staff
* $50,000 per year for three years for debt reduction in order to
move toward building

Funding for this congregation during a time of pastoral tran-

sition would provide a tremendous morale boost for the peo-
ple of God who gather in this place.

Contact
Nancy Olafson, president, 763.753.5717

Spirit of Joy Lutheran Church, Buffalo

Background and Mission
Spirit of Joy celebrated their first worship service in January
2001, and the congregation now has 219 baptized members.
The growth has been steady. The congregation has stepped
out in faith and purchased land. Congregations in growth
areas grow through programs offered to families, especially
children and youth.

Goal
To become self-supporting within three years by accelerating
growth in numbers.

Thrivent Financial for Lutherans has given Spirit of Joy a

$15,000 matching grant each year for three years. Now, Spirit
of Joy needs a partner(s) who will provide the matching dol-
lars, specifically to accomplish:

* $10,000 per year for three years for Family Life Lay Minister
* $5,000 per year for three years for Adult Discipleship and
Prayer Ministry

Plus
* $3,000 one time grant for evangelism push in fall 2006
* $20,000 per year for three years for debt reduction, a neces-
sary prelude to any new building program.

Contact
Josh Nelson, pastor, 763.684.1400

9
 Sudanese Lutheran Church in Minnesota
Mission
In 2001-2002 Pastor Cherian Puthiyottil of AGORA began
developing relationships with Sudanese Christians of various
denominational backgrounds, encouraging them to worship
together as a Sudanese community. In 2002 Zion Lutheran
Church, Anoka welcomed this community with hospitality,
invaluable practical advice, and financial support.

Mr. Mawien Ariik quickly emerged as the spiritual leader of

the Sudanese worshiping community, a fellowship which
includes at least five different tribes and languages from the
southern Sudan, as well as varying Christian traditions,
including Roman Catholic, Anglican, Pentecostal, and
Orthodox. Ariik earned a degree in theology from the Coptic
Orthodox Theological and Clerical University College of
Cairo, Egypt, in 1996.

After completing additional course work at Luther

Theological Seminary, Mawien was ordained in June 2005 to
serve this new congregation of the ELCA.

Approximately 60% of the pastor’s time is spent developing

the Anoka-based worshiping community and 40% will be
committed to reaching out to Sudanese people in other parts
of the state.

Goal
By 2010, Sudanese Lutheran Church will be the center of an
active network of Sudanese Christians in the upper Midwest,
and will take an active role in developing Sudanese fellow-
ships in the region.

Support Needed
A partner is needed to join Zion Lutheran Church in support
of the Sudanese Lutheran Community.

* $17,400 for 2006

* $17,400 for 2007

Contact
Heather Hammond, bishop’s associate, 612.230.3312

10
 transformational ministry in the city
Transformational Ministry in the City
Design Team
Rev. Kelly Chatman
Mr. Morris Dukuly
Rev. Sue Engh
Rev. Hans Lee
Ms. Zoe Massaquoi
Rev. Richard Mork
Ms. Kate Nesse
Ms. Lynda Nordholm
Mr. Paul Ostrow, president,
Minneapolis City Council
Mr. Don Samuels, member,
Minneapolis City Council
Rev. Jerry Wahl
Rev. David Wangaard

11
 City South Cluster Ministries
The City South Cluster is a cooperative ministry of
five churches: Bethel, El Milagro, Epiphany, Minnehaha
Communion, and Our Redeemer. These congregations
together are stretching their financial commitments to invest
in this vital ministry.

Three initiatives of the CSC have been approved for funding

by the Transformational Ministry Team of Making A World
of Difference.

Priority One: La Connexion, Referral Specialist

The Referral Specialist position is integral to La Connexion's
mission of building relationships which connect members of
the Latino community to available resources. Sponsorship is
sought for two part time positions.

Funding needed: $32,000 a year for 3 years $16,000 per

position

Priority Two: Congregational Collaboration,

Volunteer Program
The skills and abilities of the members in our congregations
is our most valuable resource. When people are organized,
work gets done and strengthens the community.

Funding needed: $22,000 per year. Includes a Lutheran

Volunteer Coordinator and office supplies

Priority three: Youth Empowerment and Outreach

Youth are the future of our congregations and society. Help
pave a positive future for youth living in South Minneapolis
by sponsoring our Youth Outreach Program. Give youth an
alternative to gangs, violence, and crime by connecting them
with caring adult mentors and meaningful development
opportunities.

Funding needed: $29,000 first year, $22,000 per year

thereafter
$6,000 for a Community needs assessment
$16,000 annual stipend for an intern from Luther
Seminary Youth and Family Ministry program.
$6,000 for program related costs

Dollars needed include an 8% "fair share" for administration

costs. A full case statement and budget are available upon
request from MAWD office. Or contact Interim Executive
Director Diane Grigsby at 612.728.9221 or info@cscluster.org
You may also check the website: www.citysouthcluster.org

12
 Hispanic/Latino Mission Strategy
Mission
Pastors Luisa and Patrick Cabello Hansel have been called to
serve as pastors at St. Paul Lutheran Church, 15th Ave. S.,
Minneapolis. Pastor Luisa will give part of her time to devel-
oping a comprehensive Latino/Hispanic strategy for all of
south Minneapolis and strategically placed congregations.
The ELCA is a partner for funding along with Making A
World of Difference.

Support Needed
* $25,000 per year for the first year
* $15,000 per year for the next four years

Partners Still Needed

Funding is the chief need from a partner. However, partners
can walk alongside the pastors and the planning team and
learn a great deal about mission and ministry among
Hispanics and Latinos, with the possibility of expanded rela-
tionship development in the future.

Contact
David Wangaard, bishop’s associate, 612.230.3316

Messiah Lutheran Church and

Lutheran Social Service Center
for Changing Lives
Mission
The Center for Changing Lives represents an ambitious plan
for linking Lutherans together in mission. Located at 24th
Street and Park Avenue in the Phillips neighborhood of
Minneapolis, the Center links the mission and ministry of
three collaborative partners, Lutheran Social Service (LSS)
of Minnesota, Messiah Lutheran Church, and Faith in the
City partners, Thrivent Financial for Lutherans and
Fairview Health Systems.

The Center will be home to a broad array of services LSS

provides to children, youth, and families, many of which are
meeting the needs of Phillips neighborhood residents.
Services will be available for:

Refugees and those seeking employment

Homeless youth and families
Adoption
A variety of counseling services

In a unique arrangement with the public sector, the top floor

of the new center will be affordable housing, being devel-
oped in partnership with the State of Minnesota and
Hennepin County. As part of Faith in the City, Thrivent
Financial will operate a Personal Finance Center, Fairview
13
will address community health issues at the Wellness
Connection, and an Education and Training Center will
meet the needs of neighbors, particularly refugees and per-
sons moving from welfare to work.

Messiah Lutheran Church has joined LSS in this vision for

ministry in the Phillips neighborhood. This unique partner-
ship will strengthen both. Messiah brings a wealth of com-
munity-based ministries to the center. In addition to its wor-
shiping community, pastoral care, and Alpha, as well as
Christian education for all ages, Messiah and its partner con-
gregations reach deep into the Phillips neighborhood with a
wide variety of services.

Status
Groundbreaking for the new Center for Changing Lives is
estimated for spring 2007 and ribbon-cutting for
spring/summer 2008.

Support Needed
* $500,000 from congregations
The Messiah Lutheran/LSS Center for Changing Lives is cur-
rently seeking philanthropic and congregational support. As
part of the fund-raising effort, congregations in the Twin
Cities are being asked to support the new LSS/Messiah part-
nership as the congregation relocates its ministry to the center.

Contact
Alan Loose, director,
Office of Cooperative Ministries, LSS, 651.969.2282
Lee Cunningham, pastor, 612.871.8831

Our Saviour’s Lutheran Church,

South Minneapolis
Ministry of Community and Faith
Formation/Daily Work
Background and Mission
Our Saviour’s is “a dynamic community, centered in Christ,
called, nurtured and sent to celebrate, serve and do justice.”

The congregation is diverse in race, culture, and economic sta-

tus. About 25% of Our Saviour’s members are immigrants from
West Africa. While the congregation has experienced growth
over the last few years, it remains committed to increasing its
presence in the neighborhoods of the Phillips area.

Our Saviour’s ministry is centered in Word and sacrament

worship, out of which flows a strong commitment to doing
justice and advocacy, along with ministries of compassion
and empowerment (through Our Saviour’s Housing and the
English Learning Center). The Ministry of Community and
Faith Formation will strengthen the community of Our
Saviour’s through intentional small group ministries
and education initiatives, and expand this relational 14
ministry outside its doors. There is an expectation of contin-
ued growth through this initiative.

Daily Work will empower people connected to Our Saviour’s

to find living-wage work and become more fully involved in
the life of the congregation. Partner congregations are invited
to provide mentors for those seeking better employment.

Support Needed
Thrivent has given Our Saviour’s a $13,500 grant per year for
three years for the Ministry of Community and Faith
Formation. Our Saviour’s need is for a funding partner who
will provide the match.

* $13,500 per year for three years for the Ministry of

Community and Faith Formation
* $6,000 per year for three years for Daily Work

Contact
David Wangaard, bishop’s associate, 612.230.3316
Hans Lee, pastor, 612.871.2967

River of Life
Mission
River of Life is an ELCA congregation in north Minneapolis, a
new congregation as a result of the mergers of Zion and
Bethlehem Lutheran churches. This vibrant congregation is
involved with an “Open and Flowing” campaign to fund its
strategic plan. Its most pressing need is in the area of personnel.

River of Life seeks a co-pastor to lead the congregation along

with Pastor Louise Britts. The new position would focus on
outreach to the many unchurched families in the area. River
of Life runs a seven-day building ministry to the community
with many community outreach programs and this ministry
needs a half-time building manager and maintenance per-
son. Several Lutheran churches have an involvement there
through Loaves and Fishes.

Support Needed From a Partner with a Heart for

the City
2006: $40,000 2009: $20,000
2007: $80,000 2010: $10,000
2008: $40,000

Total: $190,000

Contact
Louise Britts, pastor, 612.521.7655
David Wangaard, bishop’s associate 612 230.3316

15
 St. Olaf Lutheran Church
A Commitment to Children and Youth
Mission
St. Olaf Church is finding new energy and vitality through a
process of discernment resulting in a strategic plan calling
for vigorous outreach to a community’s most precious asset;
its children and youth. To accomplish the ambitious goals,
St. Olaf will hire a part-time Youth Director and a part-
time Youth Assistant to provide a full church youth min-
istry program.

To make the program effective, it is essential that children

and youth be transported safely to and from church and
events. Therefore, a van is necessary for the work.

St. Olaf will partner with New Directions Youth Ministry, a

foundation and business supported community organization,
and with Minneapolis Area Synod Youth ministry programs.
In addition to a full program of Sunday School, confirmation,
Vacation Bible School, outdoor camping ministry, training in
worship, and service events, the church provides after school
tutoring and help for parents. Lay leadership has developed
this strong program and recruits the volunteers who serve.

St. Olaf is surrounded by people living in poverty. Someone

must give them a “hand up” and provide stability and hope
in their lives. St. Olaf youth will have the opportunity to
work every Saturday morning to earn credits to pay for
those activities which require fees.

The budget for the two part-time youth ministers and trans-
portation and program costs will be $40,155. St. Olaf seeks a
partner(s) who can provide one-half of the costs or $20,000
per year for three years.

Contact
Dale Hulme, pastor, 612.529.7726

The Transformation and Redevelopment of

Salem English Lutheran Church
Mission
After a long process of discernment, this historic congrega-
tion on 28th Street, Minneapolis will raze its present unsus-
tainable facility and rebuild for a new mission and ministry.
What will rise in its place?

A mixed use development plan calls for town homes, retail,

16 units of affordable rental family workforce housing, and a
ministry center that will provide a church home for both
Salem and the Lyndale United Church of Christ. What a cre-
ative and bold response to a crisis! Out of the ruble will come
a mission for a new day with all the promise for new life.
16
Common Bond Communities and Augustana Senior
Development will coordinate and manage the facility rede-
velopment. Salem will close the doors on the present facility
on October 31, 2006 and “go into an exile location” until con-
struction is complete.

To implement the plan, the congregation intends to call a

transformational mission redevelopment pastor who can
continue to develop the congregation while it is waiting for
its new home. Salem English members are pledging and giv-
ing at a higher than ever rate as their commitment to this
plan. The Division for Outreach of the ELCA has approved
this plan and will invest in it. What remains is to find a part-
ner(s) who can provide $15,000 per year for three years, begin-
ning in 2006.

This will serve as an exciting new model for ministry in an

urban area when and where a congregation’s facility is no
longer sustainable but where dynamic ministry must take
place to serve God’s people in the neighborhood.

Contact
Jen Nagel, pastoral minister, 612.872.4650

Salem Evangelical Lutheran Church,

North Minneapolis
Background and Mission
Since 1995, Salem has been intentional about developing a
stronger relationship with their diverse neighborhood commu-
nity through door-to-door invitation, an after-school program,
and summer intergenerational Vacation Bible School, as well as
other ministries. Salem is responding to God’s call to mission
through its commitment to being a multiracial congregation,
which reflects the community in which this church exists.

Goal
To provide funding for a part-time outreach pastor. Salem
has called an African-American pastor.

Support Needed
* $18,000 per year for three years

Contact
David Wangaard, bishop’s associate, 612.230.3316
Roger Hardy, pastor, 612.521.3644

17
 Spirit Garage Underground, Minneapolis
Ministry of Community and Faith Formation/Daily Work
Background and Mission
Develop a new congregation in south Minneapolis that
reaches out to people in the Uptown area, Lyn-Lake area,
Whittier Neighborhood, and the Carag Neighborhood. In
Minneapolis 39% percent of the people are 20- to 39-year-
olds and 43.5% of the population is un-churched. This is a
grassroots ministry, allowing for authentic experiences in a
compassionate community that helps people discover their
God-giftedness. The mission is to reach out to the de-
churched and un-churched members of the community.

Spirit Garage Underground is a destination, a place where

people can come on a Thursday night for food, community,
great music, and interactive sermons.

Support Needed
* $10,000 per year for three years for mission developer and
music program

Contact
Yvonne Andert Wilken, Mission Developer, 651.398.7729
Rob Norris-Weber, pastor of Spirit Garage, 651.203.9588

Transforming Neighborhoods and the

City: Mission Renewal Initiative
Mission
Renewal and mission happens in many ways and in many
settings. The Mission Renewal Initiative (MRI), in partnership
with Isaiah, helps congregations find their mission and min-
istries through faith-based community organizing. This
organization has been evaluated and found to be an effective
means for helping churches find their prophetic voice for
social and economic justice. MRI does this by partnering with
Isaiah and by building effective relationships, developing
leaders, and engaging congregations in public arena issues.

The MRI is funded through the Minneapolis Area Synod

budget and the dues of member congregations. An additional
$35,000 is needed annually to meet MRI’s program budget.
MRI has a demonstrated track record of assisting congrega-
tions in finding their mission, improving their outreach and in
tackling some of our most vexing social problems.

Support Needed
* $25,000 per year for two years

Contact
Sue Engh, pastor and director, 612.333.1260

18
 Trinity Lutheran Church, Riverside
Background and Mission
Trinity Lutheran congregation has been a church without
walls since the church building was razed in the late 1960s to
clear the way for I-94. Committed to the Cedar-Riverside
neighborhood, Trinity has made outreach a priority. A large
number of East Africans (primarily members of the Mekane
Yesu Church in Ethiopia) have become part of Trinity,
Riverside. Pastor Alem Hagos, who was born in Ethiopia,
has been called to join the pastoral staff.

Congregation Council planning has identified youth ministry

as its focus. The congregation will employ a youth minister
who is enrolled in the Children, Youth, and Family program
of Luther Seminary.

Support Needed
Thrivent has given a $58,000 matching grant to Trinity,
Riverside. Trinity seeks a partner who can provide $20,000
per year for two years and $18,000 the third year. The three-way
partnership will provide a full-time youth minister and pro-
gram and outreach resources.

Contact
Jane Buckley-Farlee, pastor, 612.333.2561

19
Global Outreach Design Team
global outreach
Rev. Peter Bartimawus
Rev. Sekenwa Briska
Rev. Terry Frovik
Ms. Marie Hayes
Ms. Zoe Massaquoi
Mr. Jack Munday
Ms. Kris Perry, DM
Mr. Paul Rebelein
Rev. Paul Rogers
Mr. Dana Biama Sabiya
Ms. Glenndy Sculley
Ms. Judy Tonolli
Rev. Morrie Wee
Rev. Joel Wiberg
Rev. Judy Burgett Winzig
Ms. Laurie Beckman Yetzer, DM

20
A New Beginning for Partnerships with Nigeria
Mission
A comprehensive strategy for how the Minneapolis Area
Synod might be more effective in our relationship with our
companion synod, The Lutheran Church of Christ in Nigeria,
is in its initial stages. However, a 2005 visit from Archbishop
Nemuel Baba has identified the following urgent needs.

Support Needed
Approximately $12,500 for an electric generator for Bronnum
Lutheran Seminary. The seminary serves a student body of
over 500 and is an extremely important site to the future of
the Church.

$16,000 this year and additional support in 2006 and 2007 for
training eight midwives and four community health work-
ers, and drilling three boreholes and five wells. Global
Health Ministries has offered to match the first $8,000
received toward these two projects. The first year has been
funded.

Additionally, Archbishop Babba has identified 10 congrega-

tions that are ready for “congregation-to-congregation” part-
nerships.

Opportunities are also available to support one or more stu-

dents at Bronnum Lutheran Seminary in Nigeria. Three stu-
dents are being supported for three years by the gifts and
pledges of synod staff. More students need help!

Help Sekenwa Briska, a Nigerian pastor receive a PhD from

Luther Seminary so that he can teach Nigerian pastors.
Scholarship assistance of $15,000 needed for first year.

Contact
Glenndy Sculley, bishop’s associate, 612.230.3314
Kris Perry, companion synod coordinator, 612.418.5410

21
 growth in numbers
Growth in Numbers Design Team
Rev. Rod Anderson
Rev. Kelly Chatman
Rev. Jake Dyrhaug
Rev. Phil Formo
Rev. Jack Fortin
Rev. Karen Geisendorfer-Lindren
Rev. Heather Hammond
Rev. Nirmala Reinschmidt
Rev. Carol Stumme
Ms. Dorothy Swanson, AIM
Rev. Ed Treat

22
 Congregational Evangelism Initiative
Purpose
This two-pronged approach simultaneously strengthens con-
gregations for growth through the proven strategy of Natural
Church Development and equips them with skills training and
program resources for healthy, sustainable outreach.

Descriptors
* Holistic, contextual, and completely integrated with the
eight marks of congregational wellness of the congrega-
tion.
* Congregational self-evaluation refocuses the leverage
points annually.
* Method central to the initiative is the relationship between
trained coaches and the participating congregations. The
nature of the initiative makes it available to congregations
in any setting and of any size.

Requirements for Participating Congregations

* Three-year commitment
* Accept a coach, assemble an experienced team of persons
with passion, knowledge, and energy surrounding evan-
gelism
* Participate in a network of other congregations within the
program
* Participate in initial and ongoing workshops
* Participate in funding costs of the program
* Total of $1,000 for three years

Participating congregations will pay a fee according to their

ability to underwrite the costs. No congregation will be
excluded due to lack of dollars.

Additional Support Needed

$24,000 for resources, workshop, speakers ($8,000 per year
for three years)
$12,000 for Phase II and Phase III coach training ($6,000 per
year for two years)

Given/Pledged to Date: $40,257

Partners Needed for Phase II Evangelism Effort
$36,000 over three years to fund new coaching workshops,
speakers around the “eight marks,” and congregational
resources

Contact
Heather Hammond, bishop’s associate, 612.230.3312

23
 Theological Education for Immigrant
Leaders
Background and Mission
For over 150 years people from many lands have found a
home in the Minneapolis area. Once they came from northern
Europe. Now, new immigrants arrive from places like
Ethiopia, Sudan, and Liberia. Often they are refugees from
wars and persecutions, Christians whose faith that has been
tested beyond what most Minneapolis Area Synod Lutherans
can imagine. Once they are here, the communities gather for
prayer and worship. From within these communities, wise and
gifted leaders rise up, persons whose hearts’ desire is to preach
the Good News of life and hope in Jesus Christ. These leaders
want to become pastors. Because of their positive associations
with Lutherans in the area, they want to become Lutheran pas-
tors. We are beginning to see the ethnic communities looking
to become formally organized Lutheran congregations.

Becoming a pastor in a Lutheran congregation requires theo-

logical education. In 2005-06 a Luther Theological Seminary
education cost $21,000* per year for a full-time student in the
Master of Divinity (ordained pastor) track. Seminary and
ELCA Churchwide financial aid can and does help. The stu-
dents can and do work at various jobs while they study, but
even a job that pays a “living wage” leaves little or nothing
for tuition payments.

Goal
To prepare up to 15 immigrant/refugee leaders for rostered
service in the ELCA as ordained pastors, commissioned asso-
ciates in ministry, or consecrated diaconal ministers. As they
are formally called to serve in congregations they will be
able to reach out in languages and styles others in our synod
cannot do. The faith and ministry of immigrant brothers and
sisters blesses the whole metro area, and the Minneapolis
Area Synod in particular, by making it possible for neighbors
“to hear, each in our own language, the wondrous works of
God.” (Acts 2:11b) Partnering congregations have an oppor-
tunity to build a relationship with the student(s) they spon-
sor, as well as the faith community that student serves.

Support Needed
$15,000 per candidate per year for up to three years for ordained
ministry; up to two years for diaconal ministry
$5,000 per year for up to two years for associate in ministry candidates

*$21,000 per year includes tuition, room and board, books and
supplies, transportation, and miscellaneous expenses accord-
ing to the Office of Financial Aid at Luther Theological
Seminary, St. Paul, Minnesota.

Contact
Heather Hammond, bishop’s associate, 612.230.3312

24
 Leadership Team
Rev. Jon Buuck, senior pastor,
Lutheran Church of the Good Shepherd

Ms. Karen Bohn, president,

Galeo Group LLC

Mr. John Gilbert, chairman,

Thrivent Financial for Lutherans, retired

Rev. David Hoffman, senior pastor,

Lutheran Church of St. Philip the Deacon

Ms. Rebecca Larsen, president

Fundraising & Development Inc.

Ms. Jan Maudlin, executive director,

World Voices

Mr. Tim Maudlin, managing partner,

Medical Innovations

Rev. Chris Nelson, senior pastor,

Bethlehem Lutheran Church

Mr. Bruce Nimmer, president,

Sienna Corporation, Bennett Lumber

Mr. Bill Nord,

international investment adviser

Mr. T. Williams, senior project associate,

Rainbow Research

Staff
Dennis Johnson 612.230.3306
Terri Endres 612.230.3307
Carolyn O’Grady 612.230.3318

122 W Franklin Ave, Ste 600

Minneapolis, MN 55404-2474
www.mpls-synod.org