complete intro section - Central States Synod

Central States Synod AssemblyJune 6-9, 2013 Sheraton Hotel, Overland Park, KansasTable of Contents25 years together in ChristWelcome to the Annual Assembly of the Central States Synod, ELCA. We hope you will find our time togetherenjoyable, rewarding and productive as we work, worship and pray together.Table of ContentsAcknowledgementsTentative AgendaVoting Members InformationOrganization/Agency Display LocationMilestone AnniversariesSpecial Guests and PresentersSynod Statistical ReportWorkshop listingAssembly “Bits and Pieces”Portico InformationMap of Hotel and local restaurantsIntro SectionMessage from Presiding Bishop Mark HansonArea Ministry ReportsTeams & Committee ReportsAgencies & Organizational ReportsSection I — ReportsSection II — NominationsPositions Needing Nominations and information (including blank forms)Nominating SlateBiographical Information on NomineesTreasurer's ReportProposed Budget for FYE 2014Salary and Benefits BreakdownGiving ReportProposed Compensation Guidelines for 2014Resolutions Committee Members/Issues of ConscienceBlank Sheet for Motions2012 Assembly Actions Grid2013 Resolutions (in numerical order)Section III — Budget/FinanceSection IV — ResolutionsNOTE:Worship materials will be distributed or projected.Central States Synod, ELCA Assembly 2013, Introduction Section

Central States Synod AssemblyJune 6-9, 2013 Sheraton Hotel, Overland Park, Kansas• Bishop Gerald Mansholt and Vice-President,Melba Bangert for leading the Synod Assembly• Secretary, Loren Mai; Treasurer, Scott Schulte;and all Synod Council members for their work• Mark Fischer, Display Table Coordinator• Bishops Election Committee, Norm Koch, Chairand the Synod Council members for their work• Nominations Committee, Alice Boschek,Chair and the nominations committee• Colin Truhe, Savannah Lockwood CredentialReporting and Delvin Strecker Credential Chair• Phil Knox, Elections Chair• Nate Haaland, Compensation Guidelines Chairand the Compensation Guidelines Committee• Carolyn Wilson Assembly Floors Chair assistedby Kathie Smith and all those who served onthe Assembly Floor Team• David Mareske and Hollis Renewal Centerfor creation of this years’ anniversary crosses• Bethany College for hosting the Bishop’sReception• Brenda Crossfield Hospitality Chair, membersof Faith, Prairie Village, Kan. and Area Ministry6 & 7 congregations that provided beveragesand snacks.• Lutheran Planned Giving and Joyce Palmer forproviding coffee cups for the hospitality room.• Lesley Radius, Assembly NewspaperEditor, AJ Striffler and Jon Wolf, Social Mediaand all those who contributed• Adam Wutka, Resolutions Chair and theResolutions Committee• The Synod Assembly team; Dawne Bockelman,Jim Erdman, Dan Glamann, Janice Kibler,Patricia Reep, Lowell Michelson• Local arrangements committee members –Sharon Bockelman, Brenda Crossfield,Anne Dale, Rick Deasley, Adam Erickson,Mark Fischer, Cherri Jestmore, Norm Kochand Carolyn WilsonAcknowledgementsSpecial Thanks to…• Evelyn Wilson, Parliamentarian• Youth Facilitators Adam Erickson andAustin Krug• Ashley Masoni for coordinating our Chaplains• Those who organized worship services; RickDeasley, Atonement, Overland Park Kan., KawPrairie Praise Band, KC Brassworks and all themusicians and volunteers• Sharon Bockelman for organizing the PrayerRoom• For those who offered workshops;Stephen Bouman, Joseph Chu, StephanieDoeschot with Elizabeth Reinking & JimErdman, Len Dale, Eva Creydt- Schulte,Michael Peck and Donna Simon• Mission Investment Fund, ELCA and Paula Kittfor sponsoring a coffee break and supplyinglanyards• Atonement, Overland Park, Kan., for printingand collating materials for the Assembly• Thrivent Financial for Lutherans for assistingwith the cost of voting keypads and for thefolders• Local congregations for taking care of so manyother details to welcome us to this Assembly• The Assembly Office staff — Dawne BockelmanCherri Jestmore and Sandra Van Tuyl• Technical Staff — Dan Glamann, AndreaHodges, Dave Mareske, Shawn Norris,Jim Williams, Keith Hohly and numerousvolunteers; and the Southwest Audio VisualstaffCentral States Synod, ELCA Assembly 2012, Introduction Section25 years together in Christ

Central States Synod AssemblyJune 6-9, 2013 Sheraton Hotel, Overland Park, KansasTentative Agenda/Schedule(Subject to Change)25 years together in ChristThursday – June 6, 2013_____________________________________________________________________11:00 a.m. Assembly Registration Opens (Assembly office will be in the Birch Room) Sheraton Lobby Corner2:00 p.m. Ecclesiastical Election Task Force Redbud Room3:00 p.m. Synod Council Meeting Redbud Room3:00 p.m. New Voting Member Orientation Juniper Room4:00 p.m. Resolutions Committee Juniper Room4:00 p.m. Youth Introduction Gathering5:00 p.m. Dinner – On your own7:00 p.m. Office closes for Registration & Credentials for Plenary Session I7:00 p.m. Opening Worship Service & Eucharist – Preaching Bishop Gerald MansholtSpecial Music by Kaw Prairie Praise BandCottonwood Ballroom8:30 p.m. Plenary Session I Cottonwood BallroomGreetings and Introductions by BishopCredentials Report of Voting MembersDiscernment for Synodical Bishop ElectionIntroduction of Bishop Election Process & Procedures1 st Ballot for Bishop ElectionFriday – June 7, 2013_________________________________________________________________________7:00 a.m. Assembly Registration Opens (Assembly office will be in the Birch Room) Sheraton Lobby Corner8:00 a.m. Plenary Session II Cottonwood BallroomCredentials Report of Voting MembersAnnounce Results of 1 st Ballot for Bishop ElectionNominations for Election of Synod Officers & CommitteesTraining for Use of Voting MachinesTreasurer’s Report & Presentation of Proposed BudgetVice President’s Report2013 Resolutions Report10:00 a.m. Break10:30 a.m. Keynote Presentation – Rev. Dr. Barbara Rossing Cottonwood Ballroom11:45 p.m. Lunch (Included in Registration) Cottonwood Ballroom12:00 p.m. Budget Hearing Hawthorne Ballroom12:00 p.m. Resolution Hearing Juniper Room1:00 p.m. Plenary Session IIICredentials Report of Voting Members2 nd Ballot for Bishop ElectionMosaic 100 th Anniversary VideoState of the Church – ELCA Churchwide Representative — Rev. Stephen BoumanLutheran Campus Ministry Presentation2:30 p.m. Break3:00 p.m. Plenary Session IV Cottonwood Ballroom. Credentials Report of Voting MembersAnnounce Results of 2nd Ballot for Bishop ElectionKeynote Presentation – Rev. Dr. Barbara RossingCottonwood BallroomFirst Ballot for Election of Synod Officers & CommitteesMission Investment Fund PresentationCompanion Synod Team PresentationRussia Far East Presentation – Rev. Bradn Buerkle4:30 p.m. Short Speeches by Bishop Nominees – Top 7 (Plus Ties)6:00 p.m. Dinner (Included in Registration) Cottonwood Ballroom7:00 p.m. Rev. Dr. Margot Käessman – Reformation Anniversary Celebration 2017Suffrages/Devotions by Companion Synod TeamCentral States Synod, ELCA Assembly 2013, Introduction Section

Tentative Agenda/Schedule - Continued(Subject to Change)Saturday – June 8, 2013______________________________________________________________________________________7:00 a.m. Assembly Registration / Office Opens Birch Room8:00 a.m. Plenary Session V Cottonwood BallroomCredentials Report of Voting Members3 rd Ballot for Bishop Election - Top 7 (Plus Ties)Lutheran Disaster Response – Rev. Joseph ChuVote on Synod BudgetCompensation GuidelinesPortico PresentationAnnounce Results of 3 rd Ballot for Bishop Election9:50 a.m. Break10:00 a.m. Keynote Presentation – Rev. Dr. Barbara Rossing Cottonwood Ballroom10:45 a.m. Plenary Session VICredentials Report of Voting MembersSynod Council ElectionMission Endowment FundThrivent Financial for LutheransBethany Home Association Meeting12:00 p.m. Lunch (Included in Registration) Cottonwood Ballroom12:00 p.m. Bishop, Officers & Guests Lunch with the Youth Executive Suite 152412:00 p.m. Call Process Ministry Lunch Juniper Room1:00 p.m. Plenary Session VII Cottonwood BallroomCredentials Report of Voting MembersQ & A Session with Bishop Nominees – Top 3 (Plus Ties)4 th Ballot for Bishop Election - Top 3 (Plus Ties)Announce Results of 4 th Ballot for Bishop ElectionRecognition of Synod Council, Teams & Committee MembersState of the Synod — Bishop Gerald MansholtLutheran Planned Giving Presentation2:55 p.m. Break3:15 p.m. Workshops○ Making All Things New – Rev. Stephen BoumanCottonwood Ballroom○ Lutheran Disaster Response – Rev. Joseph ChuHawthorne A○ Social Media Ministry – Rev. Mike Peck, Holy Cross LutheranJuniper Room○ Ministry in the City: Where We've Been and Where We're Headed — Suite #1024Rev. Donna Simon, St. Mark Hope and Peace Lutheran○ Exploring Local Mission – Making All Things New – Rev. Len Dale Suite #1524○ Sharing Hope: An Intro to Congregation Based Organizing – Eva Creydt-Schulte, DM Suite #1224○ "Doesn't sound like a church. Doesn't look like a church. But you say it's a church?"Hawthorne BThe Bridge Ministry – Revs. Jim Erdman, Libbie Reinking & Stephanie Doeschot4:30 p.m. Break5:30 p.m. Bishop’s Reception Hawthorne Ballroom6:30 p.m. Assembly Banquet (Included in Registration) Cottonwood BallroomAnniversariesPlenary Session VIIICredentials Report of Voting Members5 th Ballot for Bishop Election – Top 2Announce results of 5 th Ballot for Bishop ElectionSunday – June 9, 2013_______________________________________________________________________________________8:30 a.m. Plenary Session IX Cottonwood BallroomCredentials Report of Voting MembersQ&A with ELCA Churchwide Representative – Rev. Stephen BoumanIssues of Conscience9:30 a.m. Break10:00 a.m. Sending Worship Service & Eucharist – Preaching Rev. Stephen Bouman Cottonwood BallroomSpecial Music by Kansas City BrassworksInstallation of Synod Council Members12:00 p.m. Closing of Assembly & Sign Travel EqualizationCentral States Synod, ELCA Assembly 2013, Introduction Section

Central States Synod AssemblyJune 6-9, 2013 Sheraton Hotel, Overland Park, Kansas25 years together in ChristVoting Member Information regarding Assembly Proceduresfor the 2013 Central States Synod AssemblyINTRODUCTIONEach synod assembly’s authority and procedures must conform to the requirements of the constitution, bylawsand continuing resolutions of the Central States Synod of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America. Theparliamentary procedures are shaped by the most current version of Robert’s Rules of Order. Further, each assemblymay adopt other specific rules in order to better conduct its business. Finally, time and experience has led to anumber of ordinary practices that are carried over from assembly to assembly simply because they have proven tobe effective.For the most part, all of these organizational factors work well to provide an orderly framework within which eachvoting member may be fully and actively involved in the deliberative process of the assembly. However, at times,these same factors may seem artificially restrictive and notably frustrating if voting members do not know why aspecific procedure is being followed or how they may participate at a particular moment.The chart and notes which follow are a first opportunity for you to understand the procedures of this assembly inorder that you may fully and actively participate. Another opportunity is the Orientation for Voting Members whichwill be held on Thursday, June 6, at 3:00 pm in the Juniper Room. All voting members are invited to attend thisorientation, but new voting members are especially encouraged. Finally, during the assembly, if you have anyquestions, please feel free to approach the synod’s officers or council members, Evelyn Wilson, assemblyparliamentarian, the Rev. Adam Wutka, chair of the Resolutions Committee, or the Rev. John Kreidler, Bishop’sAssociate for Administration.Whether you are attending your first assembly or you have attended previous assemblies as a voting member, yourfull and active participation is both welcomed and necessary for the continued well being of our synod. We recognizethat for many of you the travel will be lengthy; arranging the time has been something of an inconvenience foryou and your family; and, the expense to your congregation has not been insignificant. For all of these things andthe work you will do, thank you and may God bless your participation.Voting Members Guide Page 1 of 4Central States Synod, ELCA Assembly 2013, Introduction Section

Toaccomplishthis:IntroducebusinessYou say this:Amend a motion “I move toamend themotion by..”Give furtherstudyPostponediscussion forstated period oftimeEnd debate andamendmentsSuspendconsiderationof an issuetemporarilyRaise aquestion aboutnoise, etc.Call for anintermissionAdjourn themeetingRequestinformationReconsider anactionTake up amatter previouslytabledVerify a voicevote by havingmembers standVote on a rulingof the chairProtest abreach of rulesor conductAvoid consideringan impropermatterSuspend rulestemporarilyInterrupt the Is aCentralsecondStatesIs it debatable?Synod AssemblyCan it be Necessaryspeaker? June 6-9, necessary? 2013 Sheraton Hotel, Overland amended? Park, Kansas vote?Can it bereconsidered?25 years together in Christ“I move that..” NO YES YES YES MAJORITY YES“I move to referthe matter tocommittee.”“I movepostponediscussionuntil...”“I move thepreviousquestion.”“I move to tablethe motion”“I rise to aquestion ofprivilege“I move werecess for…”“I move that weadjourn.”“Point ofinformation”“I move to reconsiderthevote on…”“I move to takefrom the table…”“I call for adivision.”“I appeal fromthe chair’sdecision.”“I rise to a pointof order.”“I object toconsideration ofthis motion“I move ttosuspend therules so that…”NO YES YES(if debatable)YES MAJORITY YESNO YES YES YES MAJORITY YES (unless ithas gone tocommitteeNO YES YES YES MAJORITY YESNO YES NO NO 2/3 NO (Unlessvote is not taken)NO YES NO NO MAJORITY NOYES NO NO NO NO VOTE NO (usually)NO YES NO YES MAJORITY NONO YES NO NO MAJORITY NOYES NO NO NO NO VOTE NOYES YES YES (if motionto reconsider isdebatable)NO MAJORITY NONO YES NO NO MAJORITY NOYES NO NO NO NO VOTE NOYES YES YES NO MAJORITY YESYES NO NO NO NO VOTE(unless it isunclear)YES NO NO NO 2/3 YES ( if mainmotion was notconsidered)NO YES NO NO 2/3 NONOVoting Members Guide Page 2 of 4Central States Synod, ELCA Assembly 2013, Introduction Section

REFERENCES AND NOTESCentral States Synod AssemblyJune 6-9, 2013 Sheraton Hotel, Overland Park, KansasArea of Concern Topic Constitutional Reference 1I. Authority and Duties Authority of the Assembly 25 years together in Christ †S7.01. 2Bishop as Presiding Officer†S8.12.i.2)Assembly SecretaryNotice of MeetingLocation 3Dates 3Agenda 4● Topics● YouthAssembly Properly Constituted†S8.32.S7.13.S7.11.E04.S7.11.F04.†S8.12.i.2)S7.11.G04.S7.11.I08.†S6.05.III. Procedure and Quorum Robert’s Rules of Order S7.32.Proxy and Absentee VotingAlternating Speeches 5Quorum†S7.31.S7.14.IV. Committees Resolutions Committee S7.11.H04.Nominating Committee● ResponsibilitiesOther Committees● Elections 6● Floor 7● Credentials 8S9.03.S9.03.01.S9.03.04.S9.03.06.Voting Members Guide Page 3 of 4Central States Synod, ELCA Assembly 2013, Introduction Section

REFERENCES AND NOTESCentral States Synod AssemblyJune 6-9, 2013 Sheraton Hotel, Overland Park, KansasArea of Concern Topic Constitutional Reference25 years together in ChristV. Voting Procedures 4 Written Motions Required 5VII. Motions and Resolutions Nature of Motions 6Status of Resolutions CommitteeVIII. Nominations and Elections Synod Council †S10.01.IX. Budget Proposals 8XI. Constitution and BylawAmendments● Youth● Young AdultS10.01.01.S10.01.02.S6.04.B09.Election Procedures S9.082/3 Vote for Adoption without SynodCouncil approvalSimple majority for certainamendments to the constitutionS10.04†S18.12.2/3 majority to amend bylaws †S18.21.Voting Members Guide Page 4 of 4Central States Synod, ELCA Assembly 2013, Introduction Section

Central States Synod AssemblyJune 6-9, 2013 Sheraton Hotel, Overland Park, Kansas25 years together in ChristDisplay TablesOutside the Assembly HallBethany CollegeBethany Home AssociationBethany House of StudiesCamp Tomah ShingaCentral States - Resource CenterCentral States Women of the ELCAChurch MutualChurch UpdatesKansas Christians UnitedKansas City Audio-VisualKansas Coalition Against The DeathPenaltyLutheran Campus MinistryLutheran Family and Children'sServices of MissouriLutheran Church of the Resurrection,Saturday's Miracle Breakfast Ministryand Midwest Chamber OrchestraLutheran Planned GivingMetro Lutheran MinistriesMission BuildersMission Endowment FundMission Investment FundMosaic, Inc. / Mosaic Kansas CityOaks Indian MissionPortico Benefit ServicesReconciling WorksSmall Animal & Farm Therapy Assn.The BridgeThe Deaconess Community of theELCA/ELCICThrivent Financial for LutheransWartburg Seminary/ Lutheran Schoolof Theology ChicagoInside the Assembly HallCompanion Synod Team, Central StatesSynodELCA World HungerHillside Community Lutheran ChurchHollis Renewal CenterRev. Stephen Bouman (Books)Central States Synod, ELCA Assembly 2013, Introduction Section

Central States Synod AssemblyJune 6-9, 2013 Sheraton Hotel, Overland Park, Kansas25 years together in ChristMilestone AnniversariesCongratulations to everyone who is celebrating an anniversary of note this year:5 YearsAnne Chida, DMStephen M. HaverlahCheryl J. HoopsShelly G. KlingensmithTed J. MosherShirley Talbot, DMJeremie A. Vore10 YearsEric L. BodenstabNate G. HaalandHeidi S. HappelMark W. JeskeKristen E. KochAshley E. MasoniPatricia A. Reep15 YearsDaryn A. HoldsworthJohn R. KotovskyJennifer J. Thomas20 YearsJ. Antonio Mendez25 YearsOrin W. CummingsEthan FeistnerJohn E. GerikeTamara J.K. KeenShawn T. NorrisMark H. Rich30 YearsElliott E. AndersonTimothy P. CareyJanice KiblerRichard E. MuellerPriscilla K. Moore, AIM35 YearsPhillip “Mike” BrownRoy E. ChristellLinda Daniels-BlockThomas J. HallstromLoren D. MaiCraig L. NessanMartin J. RafananArthur R. Stull40 YearsWilliam D. BrooksDaniel H. ChongKenneth C. HaugkDavid A. PaapMaynard A. PetersonDavid H. SwanJames L. Wagner45 YearsLarry D. CrossWilliam O. GeorgeJohn O. LundinRichard B. MonsonFranklyn J. PekarekJohn E. SchroeppelKenneth E. Zindle50 YearsKenneth J. BranchHerbert N. Johnson, Jr.55 YearsJohn D. FreyRoger J. GieschenKeith W. Klockau60 YearsCharles L. HansonDonald L. KruegerJohn J. Walker65 YearsMaynard O. HansenCentral States Synod, ELCA Assembly 2013, Introduction Section

Central States Synod AssemblyJune 6-9, 2013 Sheraton Hotel, Overland Park, KansasSpecial Guests & Presenters25 years together in ChristPresenterRev. Dr. Barbara RossingProfessor of New Testament at the Lutheran School of Theology at Chicago.Ordained in 1982, she served as pastor of a congregation in Minnesota, director for Global Mission Interpretationfor the American Lutheran Church, pastor at Holden Village Retreat Center, Chelan, Wash.,and chaplain at Harvard University Divinity School.Rossing has lectured and preached widely, including synod assemblies and global mission events forthe Evangelical Lutheran Church in America (ELCA), as well as ecumenical theological conferences.She has served on the executive committee and council of the Lutheran World Federation (2003-2010),and chaired the Lutheran World Federation's theology and studies committee.Her publications include The Rapture Exposed: The Message of Hope in the Book of Revelation (Basic Books, 2004), a critiqueof fundamentalist "Left Behind" theology; The Choice Between Two Cities: Whore, Bride and Empire in the Apocalypse (TrinityPress, 1999); two volumes of the New Proclamation commentary for preachers (Fortress Press, 2000 and 2004) and articlesand book chapters on the Apocalypse and ecology.An avid environmentalist, Rossing is involved with environmental initiatives at the seminary. Rossing received the bachelor ofarts degree from Carleton College, Northfield, Minn., the master of divinity degree from Yale University Divinity School and thedoctor of theology degree from Harvard University.ELCA Churchwide RepresentativeThe Rev. Stephen Bouman, Executive Director Congregational and Synodical MissionThe Rev. Dr. Stephen Paul Bouman, currently serves as the Executive Director of the Congregational andSynodical Mission unit. Pastor Bouman began his ministry in the churchwide organization when he was calledto the position of Executive Director for the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America Evangelical Outreach andCongregational Mission unit in February 2008.He previously served as bishop of the ELCA Metropolitan New York Synod from September 1996 throughJanuary 2008. The Metropolitan New York Synod embraces the five boroughs of New York City, Long Island,and several counties north and west. It includes 236 member congregations, and worships in over 20 languages.Pastor Bouman was born in Melrose Park, Illinois on April 14, 1947. He graduated from Concordia Theological Seminary/Seminex in 1973. He received his Master of Sacred Theology from New York Theological Seminary in 1978 and his Doctor ofMinistry degree in 1980, an honorary Doctor of Divinity degree from General Theological Seminary of the Episcopal Church in2001, and an honorary Doctor of Humane Letters degree from Wagner College in 2008.He began his pastoral ministry in 1973 at St. Jacobus Lutheran Church, Woodside, Queens. He then pastored Atonement LutheranChurch, Jackson Heights, from 1974 until 1981; and Trinity Lutheran Church, Bogota, New Jersey from 1982 through1992. He is founder of the Diakonia ministry education program, which trains lay people for ministry in local congregations. Hisparish ministry also included building strong multicultural outreach, the launching of two parochial schools, leadership in severalchurch based community organizations, and a variety of ministries of assistance and advocacy among the poor.Pastor Bouman served as Assistant to the Bishop from 1992 until his election as bishop in 1996. He also served as Chair of theELCA Board of Higher Education and Schools, and as a Trustee for Lutheran Immigration and Refugee Services and WagnerCollege in New York City. He currently serves on the board of Interfaith Refugee and Immigration Ministries in Chicago, Illinois.Pastor Bouman is a published author of a number of scholarly articles, books, curricula and devotionals. Two recent books areThey Are Us: Lutherans and Immigration, co-authored with Ralston Deffenbaugh, published in 2009 and Grace All Around Us(an account of ministry in the time of the September 11, 2001 attacks) published in 2007.He is married to the former Janet Luce, and they have three grown children and three grandchildren. They reside in Chicago.Central States Synod, ELCA Assembly 2013, Introduction Section

Special Guests & PresentersGuestThe Rev. Dr. Margot Kässmann, Special Envoy of the Evangelical Church in Germanyfor the Reformation Anniversary Celebration 2017Margot Käßmann (Kassmann), born 1958, studied Theology at Tuebingen, Edinburgh, Goettingen andMarburg. She was ordained in 1985 and finished her doctoral studies in 1989 at Ruhr-University inBochum.After her work as a pastor and later as secretary general of the German Protestant Church Congress, themother of four was Bishop of the Evangelical Lutheran Church of Hanover from 1999 until 2010. In 2002,she received an Honorary Doctorate from the University of Hanover and in 2009, the German FederalRepublic Cross of Merit.From 2009 until 2010, she served as Chairperson of the Evangelical Church in Germany (EKD). Between August and December2010, she accepted an appointment as a visiting professor at Emory-University in Atlanta (USA).In 2011-2012, she taught and undertook research as a guest professor for ecumenical studies and social ethics at the Ruhr-University Bochum (Max Imdahlguestprofessorship). Since April 2012, she has served as Special Envoy of the EvangelicalChurch in Germany for the Reformation Anniversary Celebration 2017.GuestThe Rev. Joseph Chu, Associate Program Director, Lutheran Disaster ResponsePastor Joseph Chu is the Associate Program Director of Lutheran Disaster Response, ELCA.Ordained in 1990, he has served various congregations in Illinois and California.Between 2004 and 2009, he served as the Program Director for Asia and the Pacific at ELCA’sGlobal Mission Unit. Before that, he was the Director of Fundraising and Marketing for a socialservice agency serving people with development disability in the San Fernando Valley, CA. Inaddition, he has been a teacher and a social worker.Joe is a graduate of Pacific Lutheran Theological Seminary, Berkeley, CA, and Pacific Lutheran University, Tacoma, WA. Healso holds the degree of Master of Pacific and International Affairs from the University of California, San Diego. Joe and hiswife Elizabeth have two teenaged children, Jaina, 16, and Isaiah, 14.GuestPr. Bradn Buerkle, Pastor at Evangelical Lutheran Mission of Lower Saxony(ELM)The Rev. Bradn Buerkle, a mission worker from the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America,has served in Russia since 2001. His first year was spent in Velikij Novgorod, a historic cityapproximately 200 km southeast of St. Petersburg; there, he served as the vicar of St. NikolaiLutheran Church. Bradn retained pastoral responsibilities in this small congregation for approximatelytwo years time and, in the spring of 2003, took on teaching responsibilities at the TheologicalSeminary in Novosaratovka. Bradn is currently responsible for classes in Church Historyand Christian Ethics at the Seminary.Bradn, a native of Plevna, MT, U.S.A., holds a Bachelor of Arts degree (summa cum laude) from St. Olaf College, in Northfield,MN, where he graduated in 1998 with majors in Russian, Russian Studies, and English literature. He is a 2002 graduate of theMaster of Divinity program at Pacific Lutheran Theological Seminary, Berkeley, California. Bradn’s academic interest isRussian religious philosophy of the late 19th/early 20th century (generally), and, particularly, the ethical implications ofSophiology as developed in the works of the Eastern Orthodox thinkers Fr. Pavel Florensky and Fr. Sergei Bulgakov.Central States Synod, ELCA Assembly 2013, Introduction Section

Special Guests & PresentersInstrumentalist / Worship CoordinatorRick Deasley is Director of Worship Life and Organist at Atonement Lutheran Church, OverlandPark, Kansas. He has served Lutheran congregations in the Kansas City area as music directorsince 1986.He is a graduate of the University of Missouri-Kansas City Conservatory of Music and Dance, wherehe studied organ with John Ditto and John Obetz and composition with Gerald Kemner. His organcompositions are published by MorningStar Music Publishers and Lillenas Publishing Co.Rick is a past dean of the Greater Kansas City chapter of the American Guild of Organists, was AssociateDirector of the American Institute of Musicology (1993-2001), and served as managing editorof Sacred Music News & Review from 1997-2001. Since 1993, he has traveled extensively to churchmusic conferences across the United States, including three National Conventions of the AGO, presentingseminars on church music software. Active in KC area recording studios, he has been involved in dozens of CD projects,including producing, performing, and CD art/design.InstrumentalistForest Stewart is bassist and musical director for a popular and well-known singer in the KansasCity area, Ida McBeth and Friends, plays bass with Voyage, and has worked extensively withOrquesta Alto Maiz, "the Salsa Band". On French horn, Forest has performed with the Des MoinesSymphony, the Rochester Orchestra and Chorale, the Waterloo/Cedar Falls Symphony Orchestra,and currently plays with Lee’s Summit Symphony and the People’s Liberation Big Band under thedirection of Brad Cox. Forest has performed in New York, Las Vegas, Denver, Minneapolis/St. Paul,in cities throughout Germany and Italy, and at festivals in Chicago, Los Angeles, Geneva, Montreux,and Den Haag.InstrumentalistJohn Currey, percussionist, is the Director of Marimba Sol de Chiapas marimba band, andholds a Master’s in Percussion from the Conservatory at the University of Missouri-Kansas City.Diverse performance highlights include with the Czech National Orchestra, newEar contemporaryensemble, Caribbean Steel pan band, Tri-Percussion, Echoes of Africa, Sticks of Thunder,and the American Ballet Theatre. A Modern Dance accompanist at the UMKC ConservatoryDance Department, John’s hand drumming has been heard with the Kansas City Friends ofAlvin Ailey, Kansas City Ballet School, and at numerous Modern master classes, including withmembers of the Lar Lubovitch Dance Company, David Parsons, Leni Wylliams, DeniseJefferson, and others. Teaching credits include Graceland College in Lamoni, Iowa, CalvaryBible College, UMKC Conservatory, and Pittsburg State University.InstrumentalistMax Berry; Mr. Berry’s 40 years in the music business have cemented his reputation as one ofthe most knowledgeable music industry gurus in the Midwest. A highly respected producer,award-winning songwriter, guitarist, bassist and vocalist, Berry’s attention to detail in every aspectof a project and his refined production techniques have been honed from years of experiencein and out of the studio. He has played with Kansas City area musicians including OletaAdams and Ida McBeth. With the formation of the successful jazz fusion group Max Groove,Berry has co-written and co-produced 5 albums for the Jazztown and Optimism labels. “MidnightRain” released in 1986 and “Maximum Groove” released in 1987 both reached the top 20 onBillboard’s Contemporary Jazz charts. He produced a 250 song multi-genre karaoke library forSpotlight Studios. In 1989 Mr. Berry became studio and production manager for JelleeworksProductions, where he produced hundreds of demo’s for songwriters from around the country. In1995, Berry opened Berry Music Group, a state-of-the-art recording studio, and started production on several projects for releaseon his record label, Enneagram Records (http://enneagramrecords.com/). The label now boasts a roster of 15 artists and22 CD releases. His publishing company, Max Berry Music, BMI, is one of the largest in the region, servicing an extensive catalogof over three hundred songsCentral States Synod, ELCA Assembly 2013, Introduction Section

Special Guests & PresentersKaw Prairie Praise Band - Casual on the outside, serious on the insideLike the fertile, wind-swept land we live on, Kaw Prairie is an inspiration-filled, passionate,hands-on community of Jesus-followers. You'll find powerful contemporary worship music,sometimes with really ancient echoes, with life-impacting, Bible-built messages, great children'sand youth ministries, and small groups — many of which have folks a lot like you!We're a Christ-first community church grounded in biblical Christian theology in the mainlineProtestant tradition, enlivened by evangelical passion and Kingdom-heartedness, andblessed by an apostolic Christian spirit of generosity and grace. More simply though, we'rejust regular folks who are casual on the outside, serious on the inside — and changing lives with Jesus' love.German Portillo has been the worship director at Kaw Prairie since August of 2008. During his time there the music team hasgrown and expanded to include many more musicians and to put to use the new worship space Kaw Prairie moved into in theSpring of 2009. German is an ordained pastor of the Church of God, Anderson, Indiana, and has been serving in vocationalministry for 13 years as a youth pastor and now a worship director. He received a BA in Church Ministries and theologicalstudies from Warner University in 2000. He lives with his wife Summer, and two daughters, Reese and Lucy, in Shawnee,enjoying all the fun activities of a young family.Kansas City BrassworksPhilip Clark is currently the Associate Principal Trumpet of the Kansas CitySymphony. Mr. Clark has performed with the, Atlanta Symphony, Galliard BrassEnsemble, Utah Festival Opera, and the Crested Butte Music Festival Orchestra.He also appears with the Kansas City Chamber Orchestra where he hasbeen featured as a soloist. Mr. Clark’s teachers include Albert Ligotti of the NewYork Philharmonic and Armando Ghitalla of the Boston Symphony.Trumpeter Stan Smith is a founding member of Kansas City BrassWorks. He iscurrently the principal cornet of the award winning band “Fountain City” and hasappeared as a soloist with the band through out the country and Great Britain. The former principal trumpet of the Kansas CityLyric Opera Orchestra is a two time winner of the North American British Brass Bands Associations cornet solo competition.Other credits include the World Festival Orchestra, the Yellowstone Symphony, the Kansas City Symphony, and the CrestedButte Music Festival Orchestra. Stan has also performed on stage with a wide variety of artists, including The Moody Blues, TheTemptations, Sarah Vaughn, and Barry Manilow. Twice recognized as a “Who’s Who” in music education, Mr. Smith gives workshopsin chamber music and brass performance.David Sullivan was appointed Associate/Assistant Principal Horn of the Kansas City Symphony in June of 2009. A native ofKentucky. Prior to joining the Kansas City Symphony, Sullivan was an active sub on the hit Broadway musical Wicked, and wasa founding member of the Mimesis Ensemble, a New York based contemporary group whose mission is to perform the works ofliving composers. He has performed with the Seattle and Huntsville Symphonies, and has been a participant of the Aspen, Attergau,and Verbier Summer Festivals. Sullivan’s major teachers include Erik Ralske and David G. Ellott.Stephanie Bryan is one of Kansas City’s busiest freelance musicians and she is Instructor of Low Brass at William Jewell Collegein Liberty, Mo. In addition to Kansas City Brassworks, she plays regularly with ensembles as diverse as Blue Riddim reggaeband, Kansas City’s Starlight Theater Orchestra, New Ear contemporary chamber ensemble and The Kansas City JazzOrchestra. Bryan advanced studies included work with members of the Chicago Symphony Orchestra, the St. Louis Symphony,and the American Brass Quintet.Scott Watson is now in his 33rd year at the University of Kansas. At the university, Scott is Director of the Division of Brass &Percussion as well as conductor of the KU Tuba-Euphonium Consort. His solo efforts can be heard on the just released“Thoughts of a Cow” as well as the educational recording “Stepping Sones, Volume I” both on Potenza Records. Scott is a memberof the acclaimed Fountain City Brass Band, the current four time North American, US Open, and Scottish Open championswhere he is solo Eb tuba. He has been tubist in his career with such ensembles as the St. Paul Chamber Orchestra, BrevardMusic Center Orchestra, and the Crested Butte Music Festival Orchestra. Scott Watson is an artist/clinician for Besson Tubasthrough Buffet Crampon, USA.Central States Synod, ELCA Assembly 2013, Introduction Section

Central States Synod AssemblyJune 6-9, 2013 Sheraton Hotel, Overland Park, KansasNew People in the SynodEffective DatesMark Rich - North/West Lower Michigan Synod to Synod Council Call Interim Salem, Axtell & New Hope, Onaga, Kan. 6/17/2012Christopher I. Deines —1st call candidate to St Paul, Nevada, Mo. & St Matthew, Butler, Mo. 7/9/2012J. Mamy Ranaivoson—1st call candidate to Trinity, Topeka, Kan. 7/1/2012Anna M. Ballan –1st call candidate to Churchwide Call (St. Mary) Maria församling, Helsingborg, Sweden 7/16/2012Gordon Sandquist —1st call candidate to Olsburg / Walsburg Parish, Olsburg & Leonardville, Kan. 8/19/2012Mark Jeske - Lower Susquehanna Synod to St Luke's Hospital, Kansas City, Mo. 8/27/2012Sarah Erickson - South-Central Synod of Wisconsin to Hosanna!, Liberty, Mo. 9/10/2012Cheryl Hoops - Montana Synod to Synod Council Call Interim at Zion, Hutchinson 9/25/2012Suzanne M. Bartling, DM - 1st call to Synod Council Call, Metro Lutheran Ministry, Kansas City, Mo. 11/28/2012Anthony J Striffler - received onto the ELCA Clergy Roster to St. James, Garden City, Kan. 1/28/2013Donna L. Florio—from Arkansas-Oklahoma Synod to St John, Lanham and Zion, Hanover, Kan. 1/20/2013Jay Grave—from Southwestern Minnesota Synod to Our Savior’s, Camdenton, Mo. 2/2/2013Bruce Freeman—from Rocky Mountain Synod to Cross of Glory, Derby, Kan. 4/7/2013Christyn Koschmann, DM—1st call to Synod Council Call, St. Luke’s Health Care System, Kansas City, Mo. 4/10/2013Hannah Demaree, AIM—1st call to Messiah, Springfield, Mo. 4/28/2013Amy Danchik—from Southwestern Texas Synod to Good Shepherd, Manchester, Mo. 5/15/2013Elizabeth Reinking –1st call candidate to Synod Council Call, The Bridge, St. Charles, Mo. 6/1/2013Ann Rundquist, DM -1st call to Synod Council Call, Children’s Memorial, Kansas City, Mo. 5/9/2013Jill Seagle - Upper Susquehanna Synod to St. Thomas Holy Spirit, St. Louis , Mo. 5/27/2013Seminarians/AIMS/Diaconal Ministers Assigned to the SynodSuzanne Bartling, Diaconal MinistryHannah Demaree, Associate In MinistryChristyn Koschmann, Diaconal MinisterAnn Rundquist, Diaconal MinistryElizabeth ReinkingStephen ZellerSteve EvansJennifer JacksonCherri Jestmore, Associate In MinistryRod Thompson25 years together in ChristSynod Statistical Information June 2012 thru June 2013Moves Within the SynodMarlene Hallstrom, AIM—from Reformation, Wichita, Kan. to St. James Episcopal, Wichita, Kan. (Music Director) 9/1/2012Kristen E. Koch - from Atonement, Florissant, Mo. to Shepherd of the Hills, St. Ann, Mo. 10/15/2012Meggan Prosser-Gebhardt—from OLFC to Interim, SC Call, Prince of Peace, Kansas City Kan. 7/1/2012Tamara Keen—from OLFC to Interim, Good Shepherd, Wichita, Kan. 9/1/2012Sonja Sandquist, AIM—from OLFC to Trinity, Greenleaf and St. Mark, Waterville, Kan. 1/1/2013Gary Voss—from Interim to Stephen Ministries, St. Louis, Mo. 1/2/2013Transfers Out of the SynodJohn Polk - from chaplain, St. Luke’s Hospital Kansas City Mo. to New England Synod 7/2/2012Jody V. Rice - from St. Paul, Cole Camp, Mo. to North West Ohio Synod 8/12/2012Natacha Kemp - from OLFC to Southeastern Minnesota Synod 10/28/2012Arthur P. Bliese - Retired to Florida Bahamas Synod 5/1/2013Stephen Haverlah - from Prairie Wind Parish: Trinity, Abilene & Faith Junction City, Kan.to Northern Texas-Northern Louisiana Synod 5/27/2013Synod Statistical Information - Page 1Central States Synod, ELCA Assembly 2013 Introduction Section

Synod Statistical Information June 2012 thru June 2013On Leave from CallEffective DatesJoseph Crowther 7/31/2012Amy Austin 11/1/2012Barbara Engelbrecht 11/1/2012Martin Rafanan 1/1/2013George Rahn 1/1/2013Katrina Fast 1/14/2013Shirley Talbot, DM 2/1/2013Linda Anderson-Little 2/15/2013Sacia Vik 1/10/2013Neil Vik 3/10/2013RetirementsDaniel Hoi Chong from Chinese Lutheran, Creve Coeur, Mo. 7/1/2012Norma J. Vander Meer from Christ the King, St. Peters, Mo. 8/1/2012Maynard A. Peterson from Robert Dole VA Med Center, Wichita Kan. 8/1/2012Donald Erickson from Wycliffe Bible Translators, Orlando, FL 1/1/2013John E. Davis from St. Mark, Emporia, Kan. 3/1/2013Diane Wagner (AIM) from First, Dorrance and Excelsior, Wilson, Kan. 6/1/2013Ron MacLennan from SC Call Bethany College, Lindsborg, Kan 6/1/2013NecrologyNorma J. Vander Meer 8/8/2012Robert F. Graf Jr. 1/11/2013Daniel R. Swenson 1/26/2013Richard I. Pries 4/9/2013Arthur H. Strege 4/29/2013Removed/Resigned from the Roster of the ELCACongregational ChangesSt. James Lutheran Church, Garden City, Kan. - rejoined ELCA 6/8/2012Abiding Peace Lutheran Church, North Kansas City, Mo. - closed 2/2/2013Parroqia El Divino Nino (Devine Child Parish), Dodge City and Syracuse, Kan. - New SAWC 2/26/2013Prince of Peace Lutheran Church, Kansas City Kan. - closed 5/19/2013Calls Issued by the ELCA Church CouncilAnna M. Ballan – Missionary Pastor in Sweden 7/16/2012Respectfully submitted,Sandra Van TuylSynod StatisticianSynod Statistical Information - Page 2Central States Synod, ELCA Assembly 2013 Introduction Section

Central States Synod AssemblyJune 6-9, 2013 Sheraton Hotel, Overland Park, KansasAssembly Bits and Pieces25 years together in Christ• ASSEMBLY OFFICE: Located in the Birch Room onthe main floor with the Assembly Hall.• CELL PHONES & PAGERS: Please turn off or set tovibrate during all sessions of the Assembly.• DISPLAYS: directly outside the Assembly Hall.• EMERGENCY: In case of a medical emergency, if thesituation warrants, call 911.• HEARINGS: Budget in Hawthorne Room; Resolutionsin Juniper Room (lower floor).• HOSPITALITY: Refreshments are available inExecutive Suite #1024 - HOSPITALITY Suite "A"Executive Suite #1224 - HOSPITALITY Suite "B"Hours: Friday 7:00 am - 4:30 pmSaturday 7:00 am - 5:00 pmSunday 7:00 -10:00 am• MESSAGES: Messages will be projected from time totime on the large screens in the Assembly Hall. Tohave a message/announcement posted, pleasesubmit it in writing at the “Tech Area” at the back ofthe hall.• PRAYER, SPIRITUAL RENEWAL and PRAYERPETITIONS: A meditative time will be offered beforesessions. Prayer petitions may be posted on the inthe Prayer Room. Petitions will be lifted up in prayerduring the Assembly.● PRAYER ROOM: Located in the Linden Room on thelower level. The Prayer Room will open at 1:00 pmon Thursday.• SESSION SEATING: Voting members tables arelocated in the front part of the Assembly Hall. VotingMembers will receive voting cards at registration.Pages will distribute the electronic voting device toVoting Members at the opening of specified plenarysession. Voting Members will be identified by theirname tags.• VISITORS: All visitors should have a name tag.Please stop by the Assembly Office and register. Atsome times in the sessions visitors maybe asked tosit in specific areas to aid in the voting process.• SPEAKING ON ASSEMBLY FLOOR: In order toassist the chair to allow for opposing discussionon an issue, during regular business sessionsthe microphones will be indicated “green” or“red” – please go to a “green” microphone if youare speaking in favor of a motion oramendment; “red” if speaking against. Pleasetake your voting card with you. Questions or apoint of order (white card) may be made at anymicrophone. You will be called upon in order bythe presider. Identify yourself by name andcongregation/organization before making yourstatement(s). Amendments to motions on thefloor must be submitted in writing as well asfrom the floor. Written amendments should betaken to the Rev. Loren Mai at the front of thehall after the amendment is made from thefloor.• TRAVEL EQUALIZATIONS: Please note that theTravel Equalization sheet must be signed nolater than 6 p.m. Friday, June 7 - signatureswill not be accepted after that time. The secondsignature is required after the closing worshipservice on Sunday, June 9. Reimbursementswill not be sent without a second signature.Checks will be mailed in July.• RECYCLING: Please use the marked bins forrecycling.• REFUNDS: Partial refunds may be made after theAssembly. Checks will be mailed tocongregations or individuals.Central States Synod, ELCA Assembly 2013, Introduction Section

Health care reform is comingCount on Portico toSee You ThroughDid You Know?Anticipating changes in the health care marketplace, PorticoBenefit Services is planning to offer new health plan optionsin 2014.For 25 years, the ELCA health plan has been there for plan members and their families,enabling rostered leaders to accept calls without health benefit disruption, and inviting andsupporting wellness for life. New options will combine today’s same wellness-focused benefitsand mobility advantages with different pricing and out-of-pocket costs.➡ Stop by Portico’s table to learn what to expect.Every employer and plan member has a choice to make this fall.Employers can keep an option similar to this year's or choose a new one. Plan memberswanting to pay less out-of-pocket will have the opportunity to buy up.➡ Stop by Portico’s table to learn key dates.The ELCA is revising its philosophy of benefits.Employers and plan members can use this revised philosophy to make benefit choices inalignment with church values, in the context of a changing health care marketplace.➡ Stop by Portico’s table to learn when this new document will be finalized.Connect to Portico to get early notice of new plan options in August.• Employers and plan members, register on our website: PorticoBenefits.org• Follow Live Well ELCA on Facebook: facebook.com/livewellelca• Subscribe to our Healthy Leaders e-newsletter: PorticoBenefits.org/subscribe50-599 (3/2013)

Central States Synod AssemblyJune 6-9, 2013 Sheraton Hotel, Overland Park, KansasHotel Map25 years together in ChristLocated down the escalatorsfrom the lobby levelAssembly OfficeLocationsBirch RoomAssembly Registration Thur./Fri .Sheraton Lobby CornerBanquet and MealsCottonwood BallroomBudget HearingHawthorne BallroomCall Process Ministry MeetingJuniper RoomEcclesiastical Election Task ForceRedbud RoomNew Voting Member OrientationJuniper RoomPlenary SessionsCottonwood BallroomPrayer RoomLinden RoomResolution HearingJuniper RoomResolutions CommitteeJuniper RoomSynod Council MeetingRedbud RoomWorkshopsVarious—see listingCentral States Synod, ELCA Assembly 2013, Introduction Section

Central States Synod AssemblyJune 6-9, 2013 Sheraton Hotel, Overland Park, Kansas25 years together in ChristD’Bronx Deli 0.92 miles7070 W 105th St, Overland Park, KS 66212(913) 649-9000Area RestaurantsOklahoma Joe's Barbecue 1.26 miles11723 Roe Ave, Leawood, KS 66209(913) 338-5151Fiorella's Jack Stack Barbecue 2.04 miles9520 Metcalf Ave, Overland Park, KS 66212(913) 385-7427JJ's Deli 1.4 miles9225 Indian Creek Pky, Shawnee Mission, KS 66210(913) 491-6776Jimmy John’s Sandwiches (deliver)8937 W 95th St Overland Park, KS 66212(913) 341-2139Jason's Deli 1.5 miles12010 Metcalf Avenue, Overland Park, KS 66213(913) 498-3366Le Peep Breakfast 2.0 miles7218 College Blvd., Overland Park, KS 66210(913) 661-9441Papa John's Pizza (deliver)5665 W 95th St., Overland Park, KS 66207(913) 341-5000Sonic Drive 1.0 miles10701 Roe Avenue, Leawood, KS 66211(913) 901-0175Subway 1.1 miles10329 Metcalf Avenue, Overland Park, KS 66212(913) 652-9366Wendy's 2.6 miles9090 Metcalf Avenue, Shawnee Mission, KS 66212(913) 341-5089Wendy's 2.6 miles12980 Foster Street, Overland Park, KS 66213(913) 905-3740McDonald's 2.6 miles10460 West 103rd Street, Shawnee Mission, KS 66214(913) 438-8880Central States Synod, ELCA Assembly 2013, Introduction Section