Mark Your Calendars and Plan to Join Us as We…

Go – Gather – Glorify 



"Then I heard the voice of the Lord saying,
"Whom shall I send?  And who will go for us?"
And I said, "Here am I.  Send me!"

At the SWD LWML 2008 Convention
Friday and Saturday, June 27th & 28th
Olympia Resort, Oconomowoc 

Celebrate another two years of serving the Lord with gladness as we reflect on Isaiah 6:8: Then I heard the voice of the Lord saying, “Whom shall I send? And who will go for us?” And I said, “Here I am. Send me.”

Friday

Come early for fellowship, servant events, viewing displays and shopping at the Christian Life Store!

• Servant Events
  • Mark Bibles
  • Gospel Witness Craft for the children of St. Martini’s Lutheran Church & School
• Banquet – 6:00 p.m.
  • Raspberry Chicken Entrée
  • Special Seating and Fellowship for Young Women Representatives
• Mission Medley Program
  • Pastor Jeff Corder, Mission Hill, Waunakee (Mission Hill is seeking to expand their ministry to children in order to reach out to all the unchurched families in the area.)
  • Rev. Chris Ikanih, African Immigrant Ministry, Missionary at Large, Bethany, Milwaukee
  • Rev. Pedro Lopez, Primera Iglesia Luterana, Racine (ministers to 50,000 Hispanics in the Racine area and beyond)
  • Musical Feature: Susan Vang and daughters
• Vesper Service

Saturday

• Convention Opens at 8:00 a.m. with Singing
  • Please allow time to purchase your breakfast in the hotel restaurant or off-site.  
• Mission Walk – 5:30-7:00 a.m.
  • Collect pledges before the convention
  • Tour the beautiful Olympia Resort grounds with your LWML friends
  • Proceeds benefit the 2008-2010 biennium mission grants 
• Convention Choir 
• Devotion
  • Reverend Robert Busse, SWD LWML Senior Counselor, and past SWD LWML presidents 
• Voting for 2008-2010 Mission Grants 
• Keynote Speaker: Reverend Daniel McMiller, SWD LCMS Mission Executive 
• Offering 
  • Offerings will be split evenly between:
    • SWD LCMS Urban and Cross-Cultural Ministries and
    • The Love of Christ Fund 
• LCMS World Mission Update: Kristy Grannis, Mission Projects Administrator 
• Luncheon & Fellowship 
  • Tenderloin Tips Stroganoff on Noodles
  • Young Women Representatives Luncheon with Janice Wendorf, LWML President 
• Opening Devotion by Young Women Representatives 
• Vote for SWD Officers and Pastoral Counselor 
• District President’s Report: Carolyn Blum 
• National LWML Report: Janice Wendorf, LWML President 
• Ingathering Litany
  • Dedication of school supplies, Bibles, catechisms, childrens’ Christian videos, Christian coloring books, personal hygiene toiletries, and non-expired nonperishable food items.
  • Recipients of ingathering: SWD LCMS Urban and Cross-Cultural Ministries and the St. Paul’s Lutheran Church Food Pantry, Oconomowoc
• Remarks: Reverend John Wille, SWD LCMS President 
• Closing Worship & Installation of Officers

Rev. Dan McMiller is the Mission and Evangelism Executive of the South Wisconsin District of the Lutheran Church Missouri Synod. He works with the District's many mission projects including new mission starts, cross cultural and multi cultural mission projects, chaplaincy, theological education, campus ministries and a large number of new partnerships that involve congregations across the District. He also is a Mission and Ministry Facilitator for the congregations of Circuits 1 through 7, 26 and 27 of the District. He and his wife Lisa have three children, Tyler, Jenna and Anna. They have served mission churches in Minnesota, Wisconsin, Peru, Chile and Panama. They have also served at Good Shepherd Lutheran Church of Watertown, Wisconsin, where Pastor McMiller was the associate with Rev. Richard Thompson from 1999 to 2003. Pastor McMiller was ordained in 1984. He is a graduate of the University of Wisconsin, Madison, and Bethany Seminary in Mankato, Minnestoa. He has done post graduate work at UW Madison and Concordia Seminary in St. Louis.

Kristy Grannis serves God and the Church as mission projects administrator for LCMS World Mission. From 1997 to 1999, she toured the United States with Captive Free, a relational musical ministry team from Youth Encounter. Kristy received her Director of Christian Education degree through Concordia University, St. Paul. As part of her training, Kristy and her husband Michael, a fellow DCE, served their internships in Japan. Upon graduation, they moved to St. Louis, where Kristy began serving with LCMS World Mission and Michael began studying at Concordia Seminary. They have one son, Michaiah, born in November 2006.

Kristy enjoys live theatre, reading mysteries and classics, and serving God and His people. She loves coffee, chocolate, and peanut butter (especially all three together), and she thinks people should take time every day to climb trees, build snowmen, or daydream.

Janice Wendorf

“Trust God from the bottom of your heart; don’t try to figure out everything on your own. Listen for God’s voice in everything you do, everywhere you go; He’s the one who will keep you on track.” Proverbs 3:5-6 (The Message)

President Janice Wendorf’s first “real” exposure to LWML came at the 1983 convention in Detroit. Curious about the LWML, President Jan decided to go to the Detroit convention to see what all these women she admired were talking about. Little did she know that her life would change forever after that first LWML experience.

Jan almost didn’t go to that first convention because her father died suddenly the month before. But God had another plan. At the convention, Jan saw the love of Christ shine through the many women gathered together — women of all ages, from all walks of life, who were singular in their focus of supporting missions and united in the goal of sharing Jesus Christ with the world. 

During the convention, Jan started to think that she just might want to become involved in this organization — and she got her chance on the bus ride home. Jan was asked to serve as a zone Christian Growth chairman, and thus began her LWML “career.”

Over time, many women have mentored President Jan and challenged her to serve the Lord in many ways. After the convention, she became active in her zone and district, including serving as housing chairman for the 1991 international convention in Cleveland. On the national level, President Jan has served as Vice President of Christian Life, chairman of the Human Care Committee, chairman of the Public Relations Committee and a member of the Member Development Committee.

President Jan is married to Kent, a wonderful, supportive husband who is also a pastor. The Lord has blessed them with more than 30 years of marriage and three children: Nathan (wife, Kristine); Daniel (wife Krista); and Naomi. Jan likes to read and scrapbook in her spare time, which isn’t much these days with her LWML travel schedule!

President Jan believes in the LWML because it is an organization that has been faithful to its core values and understands that we are about sharing the Good News of Jesus Christ.

Hometown: Grafton, Wisconsin

Home District: South Wisconsin District; Ohio District 1981-2003

LWML Offices Held: 

Local -  President, Bible study leader, Christian Growth Chairman, Nominating Committee, Effective Society Planning facilitator, program presenter.

Zone – Housing Chairman for Host Convention Committee; Member Development Chairman; Nominating Committee; Bylaws Committee; Christian Growth Chairman.

District – Perks Task Force, Renewal Committee, convention interest session presenter, Nominating Committee, Member Development Committee, Program Resources Chairman, Housing Chairman for 1991 International LWML Convention, Christian Growth Committee, Young Woman Representative Chairman.

LWML – LWML President, Board of Directors, Mission-Ministry Vision Consultant, Faith Talk Task Force, Vice President of Christian Life, authored Bible study for Lutheran Woman’s Quarterly, Convention Programming Committee Chairman 2005, Development Committee, Personnel Committee, Visioning Committee, Human Care Committee Chairman, Public Relations Committee Chairman, Member Development Committee. 

Other Activities: 

Local Congregation – Prayer Team; phone ministry; Board of Regents at Concordia University, Ann Arbor, Michigan; Women in the Word administrator; parish education team; Bible study leader; choir; Planning Committee; Adult Education Committee 

Community – Lake County Messiah Chorus, YMCA volunteer, American Cancer Society, Leukemia Society, Red Cross blood donor. 

Education: Jan received a B.A. degree in education from Concordia, River Forest, Illinois. She has been a Lutheran high school teacher and coach, a conference specialist for Concordia Publishing House, an office assistant for a financial planner, and is presently employed at Coldwater Creek. 

Vision Statement: “The LWML will continue to live out its mission statement under-girded by prayer, the study of God’s Word, and purposeful planning. We will build on the 65+ years of our history, never compromising our core values. Each woman of the LWML will grow in God’s grace, nurturing her personal relationship with the Lord, discipling other women, and taking advantage of opportunities for service and support of missions.”

Following are links to provide you with publicity pieces to share with others in your local society and congregation: 

• Convention Poster
• Wanted!  YWReps to Attend Convention poster
• Bulletin Announcements to use in March and April
• Press Release 
• Convention Skit and Skit Attachments

Memorandum Regarding Housing Options

From: Gerry Burkee and Janet Steinhaus, 2008 Convention Co-Chairmen

To: Our LWML Sisters in Christ

We have hit a little bump in the road, as you know, and we apologize for it. Unbeknown to us, Olympia had booked enough other events to completely fill the rest of their rooms on our convention date. We offer the following options if you, or someone you know, is still looking for Friday, June 27 housing:

OPTION A: Home-stays: Since the news about the lack of rooms was emailed to our LWML members, we have received several offers from LWML women who live near to Olympia, inviting their sisters in Christ to stay with them in their homes (and the price can't be beat!) We thank them for their hospitality! Please contact Gerry Burkee at 262-785-1109 or gburkee@wi.rr.com or Jean Kruse at 262-786-4520 or djkruse4@aol.com for a list of LWML women who have offered to host an LWML sister or two.

OPTION B: LaQuinta Inn, 20391 W. Bluemound Road at Goerke's Corners, right off the I-94 freeway: A block of 10 rooms (5 rooms with 2 double beds for $89.10 per room for 1 or 2 people; $6 extra for a 3rd and 4th person; and 5 rooms with one king bed for one or 2 people for $93.60), for Friday, June 27, have been put on hold for LWML convention attendees; 18 miles from Olympia; travel time is approximately 25 minutes. These rooms are on LWML hold until May 27, at which time any unused rooms will expire. Please call the Inn directly at 262-782-9100 and ask for the Lutheran Women's Missionary League (LWML) rate (which saves you from paying tax). The rate includes free continental breakfast and free high-speed internet connection.

OPTION C: Best Western Waukesha Grand, 2840 N. Grandview Blvd., Pewaukee, right off of I-94 and Hwy. T: A block of 10 rooms, all with 2 queen-sized beds ($80 for 1 or 2 people; $87 for 3 or 4 people) for Friday, June 27, have been put on hold for LWML convention attendees; 13 miles from Olympia; travel time would be approximately 20 minutes. The rooms are on LWML hold until May 27, at which time all remaining rooms expire. Please call the hotel directly at 262-524-9300 to make your reservation, asking for the LWML rate (which saves you from paying tax). This rate includes free continental breakfast.

While we can take no responsibility for the amenities of any hotel we suggest, both of the above listed hotels have received good online reviews from other travelers. It is up to you to make your own decision. Both hotels are members of a chain, so certain standards are expected of them. You may visit their websites if you need more information.

OPTION D: List of other hotels: The following motels had rooms available as of April 7; some may have more rooms available after wedding party blocks expire. We were not able to secure special rates for these motels, nor have we visited all of them and therefore cannot guarantee rates, amenities, or availability when you call. You may check them out online if you wish. Some hotels offer discounts if you are a member of AAA, AARP, Sam's Club; or you may qualify for senior rates. All of these hotels are very close to I-94. If you are interested, please call them directly. Check online for other area motels.

• LaQuinta Inn, 2801 Hillside Drive, Delafield; 7 miles from Olympia; 262-646-8500.
• Comfort Suites, N14 W24121 Tower Place, Pewaukee; 14 miles; 262-506-2000.
• Radisson, N14 W24140 Tower Place, Pewaukee; 14 miles; 262-506-6300.
• Comfort Suites, 725 Paradise Lane, Johnson Creek (near the outlet mall!); 18 miles; 920-699-2800.

OPTION E: Carroll College "New Hall" Dormitory (think "slumber party!"): We have an opportunity to secure dorm rooms at Carroll College in Waukesha (18 miles, approximately 25 minutes from Olympia). Cost, per person (when 2 share a room in a 2-room suite) is $35 each. Each person would have a single bed, supplied with a pillow, sheets, blanket, towel and washcloth; each suite (for 4 people) has a private bath with shower, toilet, vanity and sink. It's air conditioned and about 15 years old; elevator; free parking across the street. The building is locked and each room has a key. In order to secure the dorm for our use (no other group is staying there that night), we need at least 5 more people to make a verbal commitment to stay there, by Tuesday, April 29 . Please contact Jean Kruse (262-786-4520; djkruse4@aol.com) before then. Once we have these 5 people to verbally commit to staying in the dorm, we can secure all beds. If you receive this after April 29 and you are interested in the dormitory option, please contact Jean to see whether or not this option is viable.

Thank you for your Christian understanding,

Gerry Burkee and Janet Steinhaus
Co-Chairs, Convention 2008 
gburkee@wi.rr.com ; Phone:  262-785-1109

Delegates at the convention will vote for five mission grants.  Delegates should review the grant proposals with their societies and determine the projects which women most want to support.  Download the proposals to print and share with your society. 

1. BIBLICAL BRAILLE PRODUCTION, $6,000

Goal: To supply God's Word by means of 1,714 plus volumes of Braille absolutely FREE. To pay for paper and other supplies needed for work in the Braille Centers in Sheboygan & Racine.

Whereas: God's Word is our great heritage to spread to this and future generations; and

Whereas: Lutheran Braille Workers is one of the largest organizations in the world, producing God's Word in Braille, offering and giving it FREE upon request to blind persons worldwide; and

Whereas: Bibles in Braille on the commercial market cost $1,200 which is prohibitive to most blind persons; and

Whereas: Lutheran Braille Workers is a non-profit organization which relies on monetary gifts in order to offer the Bible free to blind persons of the world; and

Whereas: there is a vast mission field within the blind population as many do not know Jesus is their Savior; and

Whereas: Synod's Ablaze emphasis is to share the Gospel with 100 million people unreached or uncommitted, this project upholds that emphasis; and

Whereas: two Braille Work Centers are located in The Lutheran Church-Missouri Synod congregations in the South Wisconsin District, namely at Grace Lutheran in Racine, and Immanuel Lutheran in Sheboygan, where Braille Biblical volumes are produced in Amharic, English, and Spanish, and shipped to many nations; therefore be it

Resolved: that the South Wisconsin District Lutheran Women's Missionary League adopt a $6,000 project to provide $3,000 for the production at the Racine center and $3,000 at the Sheboygan center, as together, we proclaim and joyously sing….

God's Word is our great heritage and shall be ours forever;
To spread its light from age to age shall be our chief endeavor.

2. HISPANIC MUSIC MINISTRY - RACINE $15,500

Goal: To provide Christian outreach to the Racine area youth and family Hispanic populations by engaging them in Word and sacrament through music education, instrument instruction, and eventually performance. This is being planned by the SWD Mission Department through cooperation with Primera Iglesia, Racine and the Wisconsin Conservatory of Music, and the Racine Lighted Schoolhouse program.

Whereas: the South Wisconsin District of The Lutheran Church-Missouri Synod has adopted the Synod's Ablaze goal of reaching over 6 million Hispanic unchurched with the Gospel of Jesus Christ; and

Whereas: the Southeastern area of Wisconsin, specifically the Racine area, has seen a large increase in the number of Hispanic and Latinos living within its borders; and

Whereas: many families in this area are unchurched, poor and uncommitted and are in need of the Gospel; and

Whereas: the intense interest in Hispanic youth in music, particularly Latino styles, is an excellent entry point for sharing the Gospel of Jesus Christ; and

Whereas: in keeping with this growing need for worship, evangelism and for ethnic music identity and education; therefore be it

Resolved: that the SWD LWML assembled in convention in June 2008, pray for and adopt as a mission grant the sum of $15,500 to develop an Hispanic Music Ministry in Racine.


3. SHEBOYGAN LUTHERAN HISPANIC MINISTRY, $15,000

Goal: Provide support of interim director, purchase of Spanish and English language Bibles, Bible class materials, for outreach ministry to about 15,000 Hispanics in the Sheboygan area. This program has been in effect since 2005 with 2/3 of the cost borne by the SWD LCMS and the remaining 1/3 by the Sheboygan area churches. The three year funding from the SWD has ended.

Whereas: the South Wisconsin District of The Lutheran Church-Missouri Synod on June 22, 2004, introduced local congregations to their desire to establish an outreach to the Hispanic population in the Sheboygan, Wisconsin area; and

Whereas: God has commissioned His people to 'make disciples of all nations' as set forth in Matthew 28:18-20; and

Whereas: the Sheboygan area congregations accepted the challenge of working with the SWD to develop the Hispanic outreach ministry; and

Whereas: demographics provided for the outreach ministry indicate there are an estimated 15,000 Hispanics (Mexican, Latin American, etc.) in the area with approximately 13,000 not attending a church; and

Whereas: the Sheboygan Lutheran Hispanic Ministry Task Force has been meeting on a regular basis since 2004 and seek the support of area congregations, whose budgets are already strained; and

Whereas: the leadership of a bilingual person was essential to the success of any outreach to the Hispanic culture; and

Whereas: the South Wisconsin District voted to budget two-thirds (2/3) of the expenses, including salary, mileage, room and board, for an Interim Director for a period of three years beginning in 2005; and

Whereas: the LCMS congregations of the Sheboygan area must provide financial support to cover expenses incurred for this outreach ministry, including support of a director (full or part-time), Spanish and English Bibles, Bible studies, English language class materials, food and some financial support for families in need, etc.; therefore be it

Resolved: that the SWD LWML in convention vote the sum of $15,000 to help fund the Lutheran Hispanic outreach ministry in the Sheboygan area for one year.


4. LCMS JOINT SEMINARY FUND SWD STUDENT AID, $20,000

Goal: To financially assist students from the South Wisconsin District who attend Concordia Seminary, St. Louis, MO and Concordia Theological Seminary, Fort Wayne, IN who incur from $30,000 to $50,000 of expenses each year as they prepare to become pastors.

Whereas: the great commission of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ commands His church to preach and teach the Good News of Jesus Christ to a world that is lost; and

Whereas: The Lutheran Church-Missouri Synod has established Concordia Seminary in St. Louis, Missouri, and Concordia Theological Seminary in Fort Wayne, Indiana for the formation of pastors for the proclamation of the Gospel; and

Whereas: the South Wisconsin District has seminarians attending both seminaries; and

Whereas: the costs of attendance (including tuition, fees, books and living expenses) can range from $30,000 (for a single man living in residence) to over $50,000 (for a married man with children); and

Whereas: tuition assistance is important to our seminarians, in their ability to continue and complete their studies while also entering the ministry with a minimum of personal debt; and

Whereas: It is our desire to encourage and assist in support of our district students as they prepare for the preaching ministry of the LCMS; therefore be it

Resolved: that the SWD of the LWML assembled in convention on June 28, 2008, grant the sum of $20,000 to the LCMS Joint Seminary Fund to support seminarians from the SWD as they prepare for the pastoral ministry at Concordia Seminary in St. Louis, MO and Concordia Theological Seminary in Fort Wayne, IN.


5. TRINITY/HOPE HOT LUNCH FOR HAITIAN SCHOOLS $5,000

Goal: To more adequately meet the physical needs of the hungry children in our Lutheran schools in Haiti so they are healthier, have more energy and are more receptive to the Word of the Lord, by providing a daily hot lunch in the school setting.

Whereas: Christ instructed us in Matthew 28:19 to "go and make disciples of all nations" and commands those who have fed "the least of these brothers of mine" in Matthew 25:31 and following; and

Whereas: Trinity/HOPE has demonstrated that providing a noon meal for the hungry children in our Lutheran Schools in Haiti is a powerful witness used by the Holy Spirit to discredit the Voodoo teaching that God is unapproachable and non-responsive to Haitians; and

Whereas: our Lutheran Church Missouri Synod has chosen to reemphasize its normal evangelistic efforts in order to reach one hundred million people by the year 2015; and

Whereas: children in our Lutheran Schools in Haiti are coming to faith in response to the Word and its witness faster than any other population segment and often later are instruments in bringing their whole families to the knowledge of Christ; and

Whereas: Trinity/HOPE has demonstrated both its ability to successfully run these feeding programs to their current level of 7,144 children in 48 schools; and

Whereas: Trinity/HOPE has consistently demonstrated over the past eight years its ability to expand its donor base annually to continue 100% all the programs started; therefore be it

Resolved: that the SWD of the LWML vote the sum of $5,000 to partner with Trinity/HOPE and the local people to feed an average school of 125 children so they can be fed and FED.


6. SCHOLARSHIPS FOR SIYATHEMBA GIRLS HIGH SCHOOL DIRKIESDORP, SOUTH AFRICA, $9,888

Goal: To provide four (4) one-year academic scholarships for four (4) students to be disbursed by the Themba Trust. Young women at Siyathemba High School come from extremely impoverished families and scholarship assistance provides the opportunity for a Christ-centered education and a life of service to the church and one's neighbor in need.

Whereas: our Lord Jesus Christ bids us to make disciples, baptize and catechize (credo what we believe, teach and confess), and as Dr. Martin Luther said, “Behold, thus springs forth from faith, love and desire for God, and out of love, as free, willing and cheerful life spent in free service to our neighbor;" and

Whereas: our Lutheran Confessions tell us, "Love, care and concern for those in need are actions motivated by the Gospel, when faith apprehends the righteousness of Christ and His merits (AC, IV & VI) into eternal life;" and

Whereas: we are called as Lutheran Christians to serve our brothers and sisters in Christ as well as our neighbor body and soul by providing for physical needs and healing as the proclamation of the healing balm of the Gospel of Christ as it is inextricably connected to Word and Sacrament ministry; and

Whereas: the Themba Trust of Dirkiesdorp, South Africa cooperates in partnership ministry with the Lutheran Church in Southern Africa (LCSA), the Free Evangelical Lutheran Synod in South Africa (FELSiSA) and the Selbstandige Evangelical-Lutherische Kirche (SELK) of Germany as they educate, catechize, give thanks to the Lord for His gifts and prepare young South African Zulu women for a life of service to the church that proclaims the goodness of our Lord's Gospel; and

Whereas: LCMS World Relief and Human Care has provided grant funding for academic scholarships, curriculum development and facilities improvements to the Themba Trust and the Sinethemba and Siyathemba High Schools in the amount of $387,793 ('89-'05) and pledges to continue this long term relationship; therefore be it

Resolved: that the SWD of the LWML assembled in convention on June 28, 2008 grant the sum of $9,888 to LCMS World Relief and Human Care to be restricted in use for four (4) one year academic scholarships for four (4) students attending the Siythemba Girls High School in Dirkiesdorp, South Africa.


7. DEACONESS INTERN TRAINING PILOT PROGRAM, SHEBOYGAN, $20,000

Goal: To establish a three year pilot program in conjunction with Concordia Theological Seminary in Fort Wayne and Synod's Lutheran World Relief and Human Care to establish the Sheboygan County Chaplaincy Ministry as a training center for women in ministry. To cover costs of placing deaconesses in Sheboygan County nursing homes for the training period. Additional funding will come from LCMS World Relief, Sheboygan Chaplaincy Ministry, and local congregations.

Whereas: the full-time Sheboygan County Chaplaincy Ministry remains a Gospel centered mission ministry to the elderly, infirmed and developmentally disabled residents of the Sheboygan County area nursing homes, assisted living and hospice centers; and,

Whereas: the aging segment of our population will grow by 29% in the next eight to ten years including the building of additional health care centers for the same; and

Whereas: a large segment of this population are de-churched and have not had pastoral care for various reasons over a number of years; and

Whereas: the health care industry has recognized spiritual care as a vital part of the total care of a resident; and

Whereas: there is a severe shortage of Chaplains available to the various health care centers, especially LCMS Deaconesses; and

Whereas: local nursing homes, assisted living centers and hospice centers have requested a Deaconess intern and have pledged to support their training in their facilities; and

Whereas: the Deaconess intern will be trained and act as a missionary bringing the Word to the erring and lost, and dying as well as supporting those in the faith; and

Whereas: the Deaconess intern will promote community involvement and support for the program; and

Whereas: this pilot program will be conducted jointly with Concordia Theological Seminary Deaconess Placement Director in Fort Wayne, IN, and the LCMS Lutheran World Relief and Human Care Ministry; and 

Whereas: this training received by the Chaplain will lead to commissioning of the intern as a Deaconess in the LCMS, thus placing women into the harvest field; and

Whereas: this pilot program will lay the groundwork in the community and throughout the SWD for it to continue in the future with local and SWD support; therefore be it

Resolved: that the SWD LWML in convention vote the sum of $20,000 to help fund the Sheboygan County Chaplaincy Deaconess Training Pilot Program.


8. HMONG HYMNAL ACCOMPANIMENT CD, $8,000

Goal: To record and produce an accompaniment CD for the new lyrics-only Hmong Lutheran hymnal that is being produced, so pastors and missionaries can develop worship services and lead singing where there are no trained piano or organ players.

Whereas: the Hmong Lutheran Church, LCMS, has an expanding outreach to Hmong people living in Wisconsin and the US, and is now extending its mission outreach to Thailand and Laos; and

Whereas: the previous Hmong hymnal published by CPH has only lyrics; and

Whereas: there is a need to write down the melodies of the hymns, both those translated from English speaking hymnals and those created by Hmong people, so that their tunes will be preserved for future generations and learned by many; and

Whereas: a Hmong LCMS hymnal is being developed primarily here in Wisconsin, by a Hmong hymnal committee, to be published in 2008 by the Lutheran Heritage Society; and

Whereas: many of the Hmong congregations and mission outreach leaders do not have a trained musician that can read music and play the piano or organ; and

Whereas: accompaniment CDs of all the hymns would fulfill a great need for pastors, teachers, and LCMS missionaries, becoming a strong tool in their outreach to the Hmong people with the Gospel; and

Whereas: the cost of both the hymnal and CDs will come to a cost of around $50,000; therefore be it

Resolved: that the SWD of the LWML give a grant of $8,000 toward the making and distribution of this CD project, so that its use can help spread the Gospel and be an aid in leading fellow Christians in their worship of our Lord Jesus Christ.


9. THEOLOGICAL EDUCATION IN KAZAKHSTAN, $5,000

Goal: To expand the curriculum of the People of God Evangelical Lutheran Seminary in Kazakhstan, adding more classes in Russian and beginning classes in Kazakh, and classes to train lay members in evangelism and Bible studies. Funds would be used for books, tuition and teacher assistance.

Whereas: the Kazakh Evangelical Lutheran Church has grown to 6 congregations since 1993, and deals with people speaking 4 different languages; and

Whereas: the People of God Evangelical Lutheran Seminary (POGELS) curriculum is a two-year program conducted in the Russian language; and

Whereas: plans are being made to expand the Russian seminary curriculum as well as add courses in the Kazakh language; and

Whereas: there is a need for seminars for lay training, to aid lay people in the development of the Kazakh Evangelical Lutheran Church; therefore be it

Resolved: that the sum of $5,000 be sent to the People of God Evangelical Lutheran Seminary in Kazakhstan for theological education in order to help spread the Gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ.


10. SCHOLARSHIPS FOR DEAF SEMINARY STUDENTS & FOR DEAF CHILDREN OUTREACH, $8,000

Goal: To reach the 95% of the deaf in the SWD who do not believe in Jesus Christ as their Savior and Lord. Specific use of funds: $2,000 for ministry to children at the WI School for the Deaf - Delavan; $2,000 for ministry to mainstream deaf children; $4,000 scholarships for our 3 seminary students studying for the Deaf Institute of Theology through Concordia Seminary, St. Louis.

Whereas: God is opening doors for SWD Deaf Ministries to share the Gospel; and

Whereas: 95% of deaf people do not believe in Jesus and therefore are going to hell…we want to change that; and

Whereas: God is providing the people, materials and technology to continue walking through these doors and with your help we will be able to teach, train, and reach out to the more than 13,000 deaf people who live all across our SWD; and

Whereas: God wants all people to be saved and come to the saving knowledge of Jesus Christ; therefore be it

Resolved: that the SWD LWML meeting in convention in June, 2008 adopt as a mission project for their 2008-2010 biennium the amount of $8,000 to help support the outreach of deaf ministry in the SWD.


11. SWD CRITICAL INCIDENT STRESS MANAGEMENT TEAM (CISM), $8,620

Goal: To assist our congregations/schools in SWD with help when they are faced with some crisis, bringing them the comfort and hope of the Gospel. To cover costs of training team members; purchasing training materials, travel/lodging expenses at crisis sites, and continuing education.

Whereas: we live in a world today in which communities are faced with traumatic situations both natural and man made, which affects the physical, emotional and spiritual welfare of our residents; and

Whereas: the congregations and schools of our SWD are as vulnerable to experience crisis events (e.g. accidental deaths, fires, homicides, tornadoes) as is our secular society; and

Whereas: our SWD has assembled a Critical Incident Stress Management Team to assist our congregations and schools when faced with crisis events with the comfort and hope of the Gospel and the ministry of presence; and

Whereas: members of the team are pastors, teachers and lay persons, who volunteer their time, and do not charge congregations and schools for these services; therefore be it

Resolved: that the SWD LWML in convention vote the sum of $8,620 for up to two years for continued support of the SWD CISM team so that spiritual and emotional assistance might be provided to congregations and their members who have experienced a trauma-evoking event.


12. GHANA SEMINARY PROJECT, $10,000

Goal: To train national seminary students in Ghana for full-time church work. Seventy-two languages are spoken in Ghana, so local men are needed as pastors. This would supply living, transportation and medical expenses, as well as books and materials for students.

Whereas: Matthew 28:18-20 says, "Then Jesus came to them and said, 'All authority in heaven and earth has been given to me. Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age;'" and

Whereas: Ghana is rich in resources but has an annual per capita income of only US $460; and

Whereas: Ghana has religious freedom but tensions are increasing between Christians, Muslims and traditionalists; and

Whereas: the Evangelical Lutheran Church of Ghana was established in 1958 and continues to grow every year; and

Whereas: of the 72 languages in Ghana, only eight have the complete Bible translated into their language, 20 have only the New Testament, and the remaining have only portions; and

Whereas: if Ghana was divided equally among its pastors, each pastor would have about eleven times the area of the city of Chicago as their pastorate and no transportation except walking; therefore be it

Resolved: that the SWD LWML grant $10,000 to support Ghanaian seminary students' living expenses, books and materials, transportation and medical expenses as they study to become pastors.


13. JEMBE TRAINING PROGRAM, SIERRA LEONE & LIBERIA, $10,000

Goal: To train men in Africa who want to learn more about how to become a pastor and how to lead new believers in the faith. The training program works around the full-time work of the men involved, who are chosen by their churches to go and learn to return to share what they have learned.

Whereas: Psalm 34:11 says, "Come, my children, listen to me; I will teach you the fear of the LORD;" and

Whereas: Sierra Leone is rich in natural resources, but its per capita income of US $160 is one of the lowest in Africa; and

Whereas: LCMS missionaries began working in Sierra Leone in 1983 but were evacuated in 1995 because of civil war; and

Whereas: during the war, national leaders ministered to members and began work abroad to minister to refugees as people tried to escape the war; and

Whereas: the church grew 400% during those years; and

Whereas: Jembe Training Program builds on what the national leaders started, offering theological education courses to area representatives who return home and teach the course to others in their area; therefore be it

Resolved: that the SWD LWML grant $10,000 to provide transportation, meals, materials and teaching stipends so national leaders can continue to grow in faith and knowledge, multiplying ministry throughout the country.


14. TEAM CHINA - TEACHING ENGLISH IN MACAU , $11,000

Goal: To supply materials for the Concordia English Center, which uses a combination of English-as-a-second-language teaching, small-group Bible studies and fellowship activities to evangelize both Cantonese residents of Macau and Mandarin-speaking migrant workers from the Peoples Republic of China.

Whereas: I Thessalonians 2:8 says, "We loved you so much that we were delighted to share with you not only the Gospel of God but our lives as well, because you had become so dear to us;" and

Whereas: Macau is an important gateway to southern China's growing and expanding economic areas; and

Whereas: more than 33% of the population follow one of the many Chinese folk religions, which combine ancestral worship with Buddhism, Taoism and Confucianism; and

Whereas: religious practices in Macau are largely culturally conditioned, and lack a strong sense of personal commitment; and

Whereas: full freedom of religion was retained even after Macau became a special autonomous region of the PRC in 1999; and

Whereas: long- and short-term missionaries have an opportunity to touch people's lives with the message of the Gospel every day through contacts made in their English classes and in their community; therefore be it

Resolved: that the SWD LWML grant $11,000 to support the outreach ministry of missionaries in Macau, reaching hundreds of people with the message of the Gospel.


15. CISTERN - LUTHERAN CHURCH, CHIQUIMULA, GUATEMALA, $1,098

Goal: To construct a cistern to provide clean fresh water for the church, under construction, and the parsonage. The water supply is not stable, often only available during the night. About 70 children are being served in pre-school and after school programs in this small rural church.

Whereas: the construction of the water storage system for the Lutheran Church in Chiciquimula will serve the church and the future parsonage; and

Whereas: the Rev. Tiburcio Giron and his wife Carmelina (both former Children's Christian Concern Society students) have been ministering to the people of Chiquimula for about 8 years, working with the poorest of the poor, holding services mainly in their rented home, the congregation has been saving for many years to build the church and constructions has now started; and

Whereas: the Rev. Tiburcio Giron and his wife Carmelina have been ministering to the people of Chiquimula by providing Christian education in the Lutheran church's preschool and after school programs where 70 children are served through CCCS funding; and

Whereas: the cistern to supply a reserve water supply is necessary and important for the future parsonage, as the municipal water supply is not stable, and presently, there are times when there is no water available during the day, as it only comes at night; and

Whereas: a cistern 3 meters long and 2 meters wide and 2 1/2 meters high, lined with cement and covered with a terrazzo lid to prevent contamination will be built next to the church and will serve both the church and the future parsonage; and

Whereas: this project has the approval of the Lutheran Church of Guatemala, Igancio Chan, President; be it therefore

Resolved: that the SWD LWML in convention vote the sum of $1,098 to help with the construction of a cistern for the Lutheran Church in Chiquimula, Guatemala.


16. CAMPUS & INTERNATIONAL STUDENT MINISTRY—PLATTEVILLE, $7,500

Goal: To enhance the campus ministry to the students of the University of Wisconsin - Platteville, and to develop an international student ministry through Apostles Lutheran Church. Funds used for a video projector, books, materials, studies, devotions for students, for mailing expenses, speakers, and for Bibles and other materials in other languages for international students.

Whereas: Apostles Lutheran Church serves students attending the University of Wisconsin-Platteville (UWP); and

Whereas: the University's new student enrollment continually grows every year; and

Whereas: a growing need exists for offering students on college campuses available resources and materials for confessing and defending the faith, as well as sound and solid instruction through various technologies; and

Whereas: an international student population exists on the UWP campus; and

Whereas: God's Word is for all nationalities and peoples, and

Whereas: the Word of God does not return void, but accomplishes the purpose for which He sends it (Isaiah 55:11); therefore be it

Resolved: that the SWD LWML in convention vote the sum of $7,500 to help fund the Campus ministry endeavors of Apostles Lutheran Church in Platteville, WI, and this sum be used to help fund the developing International Student Ministry to international students on the campus of UWP.


17. RECRUIT ALASKA NATIVE CHURCH WORKERS (LAMP-USA), $20,000

Goal: The Lutheran Association of Missionaries and Pilots U. S. has expanded its mission focus in Alaska to include recruitment and training of Alaska native men and women for church work. These newly trained workers will serve in evangelizing and nurturing their own people. They will be trained through the Ethnic Immigrant Institute of Theology (EIIT) of Concordia Seminary in St. Louis. This will provide for one student's three-year education.

Whereas: Jesus Christ recruited all called men to faith, trained them in ministry and sent them out to serve (Mark 6:6-7); and

Whereas: the Lutheran Association of Missionaries and Pilots U.S. though its ministry among Native Alaskans in central Alaska seeks to equip, empower and send native people to bring the Gospel of Jesus Christ to their own; and

Whereas: the LCMS has established the Ethnic Immigrant Institute of Theology (EIIT) of Concordia Seminary in St. Louis to provide the training for full-time ministry through a Pastoral Ministry Track leading to ordination and a Deaconess Track; and

Whereas: the EIIT program along with our commitment to recruit and equip Native Alaskans for ministry to their own makes this the next stem in our ministry strategy in Alaska; and

Whereas: scholarships and ministry stipends are essential for most, if not all, native men and women who sense God's call to ministry, to be equipped and empowered to pursue that calling; therefore be it

Resolved: that the SWD LWML in convention vote the sum of $20,000 to enable the Lutheran Association of Missionaries and Pilots U.S. to cover expenses for one Alaskan Native person in the EIIT program.


18. CROSSING OVER-SPIRITUAL FOUNDATION CURRICULUM, $25,270
Goal: The main intent of Crossing Over is to provide the citizens of Milwaukee with various programs that seek to support communities and families by offering programs that address the economic and social needs of the disadvantaged while affirming who they are in Christ. Crossing Over has developed a six-pronged program dealing mostly with ex-offenders and families of incarcerated men and women.

Whereas: Crossing Over was established in 1997 to provide programs that address the economic and social needs of disadvantaged families in the City of Milwaukee by providing core values based on a Christian foundation; and

Whereas: Luther explained in Luther’s Small Catechism, “we all pray that God would guard and keep us, so that the devil, the world, and our flesh may not deceive us nor seduce us into misbelief, despair, and other great shame and vice; and though we be assailed by them, that still we may finally overcome and obtain the victory;” and

Whereas: repairing the psyche of the ex-offenders rests mostly in answering the question “Who am I in Christ?”, and this knowledge comes through hearing the Word of God; and

Whereas: Isaiah 55:11 assures us, “so is my word that goes out from my mouth: It will not return to me empty, but will accomplish what I desire and achieve the purpose for which I sent it;” therefore be it

Resolved: that the South Wisconsin District LWML, in convention in 2008, vote the sum of $25,270 to assist the Crossing Over program by funding the Spiritual Foundation Curriculum for members of disadvantaged families in Milwaukee.

19. CURRICULUM FOR CHINESE BIBLE SCHOOLS, $11,500

Goal: To provide locally developed materials for use in lay training centers. These materials serve to equip centers and leaders with a solid Biblical set of basic Christian teachings in areas where there is little or no trained theological direction. Funds will be disbursed through LCMS World Missions.

Whereas: in Acts 8 when Philip asked the Ethiopian eunuch if he understood what he was reading, the man replied, “How can I unless someone explains it to me?;” and

Whereas: China is the most populous country on earth, with one in five people alive today living in China; and

Whereas: the Cultural Revolution in 1949 and subsequent Communist rule made Christian activities illegal; and

Whereas: since 1977, the growth of the Christian church in China has been miraculous but growing faster than trained leaders can keep up with; and

Whereas: local church leaders are asked to lead Bible studies and worship services with little training; and

Whereas: heresies take people away from the truth of the Gospel message because leaders do not have enough training to combat the heresies; and

Whereas: locally developed materials with a solid biblical set of basic Christian teachings are needed for use in the lay training centers in China, as most of these centers are not directly supported by any theologically trained workers; therefore be it

Resolved: that the SWD LWML in convention in 2008 grant the sum of $11,500 to provide 115,000 books (about $10 each) to equip local Christian church leaders with the resources they need to combat heresies and reach out with the true message of the Gospel.


20. FOOD & CLOTHING COOP ASSISTANCE – FORT WAYNE SEMINARY, $15,000

Goal: To purchase perishable food to keep up the stock in the Food Coop at the Fort Wayne seminary. This group provides for over 600 persons annually, to relieve some of the financial burden of preparing to serve as a pastor or deaconess. Donations cover much of the stock, but perishables including meat, dairy products, produce and juice, must be purchased. This coop benefits all students attending the seminary and their families.

Whereas: Christ in His Holy Word commands us to go and teach all nations about Him and what He has done for us (Matthew 28:19); and

Whereas: individuals from around this country and the world, including 21 students currently enrolled from the SWD, come to Concordia Theological Seminary in Fort Wayne, Indiana, to prepare to serve God’s people here in the United States as well as in mission work around the world; and

Whereas: when these students make the momentous decision to quit their jobs and come to the seminary with their families, they no longer have the same financial flow of funds that they had before, but continue to have the same financial needs; and

Whereas: wives in many student families do find employment in Fort Wayne, but most of these women are marginalized because the employers know that they will only be there for two years, throwing families into difficult financial positions; and

Whereas: one of the ways that the seminary seeks to alleviate this financial burden is by providing students access to a Food Co-op, which currently supplies between 75% and 80% of all families’ food and household needs each month at no cost to the student, relying upon donations from individuals, congregations and organizations; therefore be it

Resolved: that the SWD LWML assembled in convention in 2008 grant the sum of $15,000 for the purchase of food ($5,000 per month for three months) for the Food and Clothing Co-op of Concordia Theological Seminary, Fort Wayne, Indiana.


21. SCHOLARSHIPS FOR UNCHURCHED - LUTHERAN SPECIAL SCHOOL, $12,450

Goal: To provide three scholarships of $4,150 each for un-churched students at the Lutheran Special School in Milwaukee. These children are provided the opportunity to attend in a Christ-centered environment, giving them a chance to be accepted for who they are, a child of God, and to learn of the love of God and about Jesus Christ their Lord and Savior.

Whereas: the mission of LSSES is “to be an advocate and resource for students with specific educational needs; to empower them to recognize and utilize their God-given potential through programs and services for students, their families and teachers and to bring them to the saving knowledge of their Lord and Savior;” and

Whereas: children who have been discarded by society as being worthless need to hear about the love of God for them, their families and community; and

Whereas: 53% of the students enrolled in an LSSES program are non-Lutheran and 25% are un-churched and 10% have not been baptized; if not for attending the special education program provided by LSSES, would not have the opportunity to hear the word of God on a daily basis; and

Whereas: God “desires all men to be saved and come to the knowledge of the truth” (1 Timothy 2:4); and

Whereas: a new student from Liberia will have the opportunity to have his emotional and delayed academic needs addressed through the Christian special education program provided by LSSES; and

Whereas: throughout the history of LSSES, numerous un-churched students have come to the knowledge of the saving grace of their Lord and Savior Jesus Christ and have brought the knowledge and love of Christ into their homes; and

Whereas: each school year LSSES’ students are baptized as a result of hearing the word of God during their religion classes as students of the LSSES’ programs; and

Whereas: LSSES is the only Lutheran special education program in the SWD and is committed to continue serving all of God’s special children; therefore be it

Resolved: that the SWD LWML in convention in 2008 adopt as a mission grant $12,450 (three scholarships of $4,150 each) to Lutheran Special School & Education Services to enable un-churched children with special learning difficulties the opportunity to receive a Christian education and to come to the saving knowledge of their Lord and Savior.
 

22. MARK 12:31 PROJECT - SOS CENTER – MILWAUKEE, $7,000

#22 Withdrawn

23. BIBLES FOR INNER CITY MILWAUKEE OUTREACH, $5,000

Goal: To purchase Bibles to be distributed by members of Mission of Christ Lutheran Church. The pastor and members take to the streets to distribute written materials and build relationships with residents in the area. The amount requested would supply books for 1,000 children and families during the next two years.

Whereas: the Lord Jesus Christ has commanded His Church to make disciples of all nations; and

Whereas: the pastor and members of Mission of Christ Lutheran Church have addressed—and continue to address—the spiritual needs of a diverse ethnic population (“all nations”) with gifts of Bibles and Christian literature in the inner city of Milwaukee; and

Whereas: the pastor’s mentoring of men in the congregation has led some of them to become enrolled in the Ethnic Immigrant Institute of Theology at Concordia Seminary in St. Louis, thus providing equipped lay leadership for ethnic ministries in the future, perhaps even in the wider society; and

Whereas: this small congregation could use financial assistance to continue to bring the Word of Salvation to people in need, especially—in this case—by providing Scriptures and other religious written materials; and

Whereas: the LWML seeks to support, encourage and assist brothers and sisters in Christ through vital ministries such as this in a changing and challenging community; therefore be it

Resolved: that the SWD LWML meeting in convention in 2008 approve the sum of $5,000 to fund the purchase of Bibles and other Christian literature for outreach by Mission of Christ, Milwaukee.


24. CHRISTIAN LITERATURE FOR RUSSIA, $11,000

Goal: To translate, print and distribute Christian literature in the Russian language so the people can read for themselves the Gospel of Jesus Christ. Many resources available to Russian Pastors are in other languages (English, German, or Swedish). The funds will be used to support translators and to print and distribute the resources.

Whereas: the Communist party in Russia suppressed Christianity, promoted atheism, and forbade all open expressions of faith for 70 years; and

Whereas: 90% of church properties were confiscated or destroyed by the Russian Communist government, making it difficult for the Russian people to have a place or materials with which to worship; and

Whereas: since the Soviet Union collapsed in 1991, religious freedom is constitutionally guaranteed; and

Whereas: many of the resources Russian pastors need are available in foreign languages, such as English, German, Swedish, and if Russian resources were available, they would be costly to obtain; and

Whereas: these new resources could be brought to the Russian people in their own language via printed and electronic means, much like Martin Luther brought the Bible to the German people in their own language over 500 years ago, and

Whereas: the adoption of this grant will continue the project started by LCMS missionaries in 1992 to overcome the Communist influence on the Church and on the Russian people; and

Whereas: this project would allow more Bibles and other books for pastors, youth leaders, musicians, and Sunday School teachers; and

Whereas: this grant will also help make these resources available electronically for free to those who have no computer access and may be hearing the Gospel for the first time; therefore be it

Resolved: that the SWD LWML in convention in 2008 grant the sum of $11,000 to help support translators as they work to bring Christian resources to the Russian people in their own language in print or electronically.


25. CHURCH WORK STUDENT GRANT, $30,000

Goal: To assist church worker students at one of the synodical colleges or universities with funds to be used towards tuition and board. Costs of one year of education range between $28,000 and $30,000, and many students leave with a debt of about $14,000. These scholarships aid in preparing them to serve the Lord and His Kingdom without the worry of debt.

Whereas: Jesus gave His final command in Mark 16:15, “Go into all the world and preach the Good News to all creation,” and Romans 10:14 says, “How can they believe in the One of whom they have not heard? And how can they hear without someone preaching to them?;” and

Whereas: the need for pastors, teachers, and other professional church workers is critical both to serve the church at large and in the mission field; and

Whereas: the average total annual expense at a Synodical school is $28,000 to $30,000 for the 2007-2008 school year; and

Whereas: such high educational costs have caused a genuine hardship for most students, many leaving with $14,000 or more in indebtedness, and has forced some to delay their Christian education or to drop out of college entirely; and

Whereas: SWD has 174 church work students enrolled in one of our Synodical schools, and 33 enrolled in one of our seminaries for the 2007-8 school year; and

Whereas: SWD provided aid to 97 church work students for the 2006-7 school year; and

Whereas: the seminaries have requested each district contribute $3,000 per student per year; and

Whereas: the SWD LWML has representation on the SWD Student Aid and Recruitment Committee, and thus has a voice regarding distribution of monies for grants; therefore be it

Resolved: that the SWD LWML in convention in 2008 adopt the allocation of $30,000 to the SWD Student Aid and Recruitment Committee for scholarships for SWD students attending one of our Synodical colleges or seminaries in preparation for fulltime service in the church.

PRESIDENT

Jan Dankwardt

Sheboygan
St. Paul Lutheran, Sheboygan

LWML Experience 

• Society: President, Christian Growth, Vice President 
•  Zone: President, Vice President, Christian Growth 
• District: Christian Growth Chairman, 1st Vice President, Recording Secretary, Meeting Manager

Church: Convention Chairman LWML North WI, Assimilation Committee, Bible/Journal-Bible studies, founded new LWML in Marshfield, and Bible study renewal program

Community Service: Relay for Life, Volunteer Hope Lodge, Meals on Wheels, Interfaith Retreats and Conferences, Servant Events

Personal: Jan is currently retired from Hope Lodge Cancer Facility. She has served the LWML in both North and South WI districts in numerous capacities. She has worked in the travel industry, has been a church secretary and is currently working with our LWML meeting manager on Conventions and Retreats. This past Fall, Jan had the opportunity to go to Puerto Rico on the 1st LWML MOST Ministries eyeglass mission trip. She went again in May as a liaison and also as a trainee to become a team leader for MOST ministries.

Vision Statement: My vision for the South Wisconsin District of the LWML is to see us grow in three areas. First, to assist women in finding effective ways to grow in their personal relationship with Jesus Christ. Second, to encourage women to bring the joy learned at the feet of Jesus to their areas of service. Finally, to prepare and challenge women to step out boldly to share their faith. 

Lorraine Koch

Onalaska 
Shepherd of the Hills, Onalaska

LWML Experience

• Society: Christian Growth Chairman, Treasurer, Co-President, Bible study leader
• Zone: Treasurer, Secretary
• District: Treasurer, Corresponding Secretary, Convention Exhibits Chairman

Church: SS Superintendent, Teacher adult class and confirmation, Recording Secretary of Council, Financial Secretary, Education Committee, VBS Teacher/coordinator, Choir member

Community Service: LaCrosse LEA Rep., Relay for Life, Crop Walk, Cancer Walk, LaCrosse-Russia student ex-change

Personal: Lorraine is a graduate of Concordia-Seward with a degree in education. She has taught in both the parochial and public school systems, was active in extra curricular activities and sports as well as being the registrar for 2 teacher's conventions. She loves gardening, cross-stitching and making quilts & “Jesus Loves Me” pillows for cancer patients and the needy. Lorraine currently serves as our LWML District Treasurer.

Vision Statement: As Lutheran Women in Mission, my goal with the guidance of the Holy Spirit, is to involve all women in the mission through prayerful mite giving, in activities of the church and LWML with willing hearts using their God-given gifts in a variety of activities as they rest in Christ the Rock, but especially in taking time for worship and Bible study with their sisters, which leads to growing together in Christ and increased care giving. God has granted us 60 years of serving Him with gladness in our organization. May this blessing continue…. 

 VP OF HUMAN CARE & MISSION GRANTS

Linda Christensen

Belmont 
Apostles Lutheran, Platteville

LWML Experience

• Society: President, Vice President, Secretary, Treasurer, Christian Growth
• Zone: President North and South WI Districts
• District: Scholarship Committee, Mission Outreach Committee

Church: Secretary, Choir, SS Teacher and Substitute, VBS Arts and Crafts Teacher, Evangelism Committee, Call Committee, Building Committee

Community Service: Executive Committee Marathon Farm Progress Days, Marathon Holstein Association Editor and Advertising Editor, 4-H Leader, AAL Zone President, Communications Committee for WI Holstein News Magazine

Personal: Linda is a graduate of North Central Technical College. She is currently employed at Cummins Emissions Solutions in Human Resources and Reception. She and her husband were dairy farmers for 31 years. She has continued her education completing courses in Desktop Publishing, Front Page and QuickBooks. Linda has served both the North and South WI District LWML and is currently the Zone 19 President.

Vision Statement: My vision for SWD LWML is to continue doing what we do best – spreading the Gospel message of Jesus Christ through our prayers and mites. We need to encourage women everywhere, that with God’s guidance we can enrich the spiritual and physical lives of families all over the district, country and the world. We need to show women that they can become missionaries without leaving their homes by praying for those in the mission field and by sending their mites to fund grants that reach lives all over the world. We need to continue to support each other in our LWML efforts and in our own lives. 

Barbara Kaun

Neenah
Peace Lutheran, Neenah

LWML Experience

• Society: President, Vice President
• Zone: Secretary
• District: Human Care Committee Chairman

Church: Board of Christian Education, SS Teacher, Mission Project Committee

Community Service: Mentor to International Students from Haiti, Visiting Seniors at Assisted Living Facility, Member of the local Quilter’s Guild

Personal: Barb is a graduate of Fox Valley Technical College with a degree in Early Childhood/Family. She is also a Certified Nursing Assistant. Barb is currently a state licensed Childcare Provider, owning and operating “Mrs. K’s Day Care”. She has worked in the health care field as a CNA. Her passion lies in Human Care and Missions. She currently serves as the Chairman of the Human Care Committee and as Zone 15 Secretary.

Vision Statement: I have met and talked with many leaders of various missions, pastors, and society presidents as the Human Care Committee chairman. In these conversations I hear each one’s passion for spreading the love of Christ and the message of His gift of salvation, the free gift we do not deserve but receive through His Father’s mercy and grace. My vision for our SWD-LWML is to have the love of Christ conveyed to our neighbors and hearts turned, and then through our giving of mites, reach those who currently are lost. “Each one reach one” should be our life long goal, bringing more women into LWML, and subsequently bringing more souls in touch with God through our mission work. To God be the glory, great things He has done!

 VP OF COMMUNICATION

Barbara Kurth

Menomonee Falls
Elm Grove Lutheran, Elm Grove

LWML Experience

• Society: Christian Growth-Bible Study Leader, Writer of LWML articles for church newsletter
• Zone: Secretary
• District: Editor of the Christian Life Newsletter, SWD LWML Taskforce for Communications

Church: Milwaukee Lutheran Guild Program Committee, Elm Grove book discussion group leader, Organist, Golden Friends member, VBS, Teachers Conference Committee-SWD

Community Service: Organist for various churches, speaker on early childhood

Personal: Barb is a graduate of Concordia Teachers College with a degree in Education and Music, and holds a Masters Degree from Concordia, River Forest in Music. She is a retired Lutheran School teacher (37 years) who continues to work part time subbing and playing the organ at area churches. She is a member of the Milwaukee Genealogy Society and German Interest Group. She has been both a speaker and consultant on Early Childhood as well as a teacher in Wisconsin, Illinois and Tennessee. She served the children in Milwaukee, teaching of Jesus, at St. Peter-Immanuel for 22 years.

Vision Statement: “Serving the Lord with gladness” is so evident in the LWML, whatever office or position one may be in. Very important to all offices and positions is communication. For it is with communication to each other on the society, zone, district or national level, we grow and work together effectively. The VP of Communications works, within her committee, to see that this happens in the various levels of the SWD LWML. I see this office as being important in interacting with the other offices on the Executive Committee.

 CORRESPONDING SECRETARY

Marie Pierce

Mauston
St. Lukes, Lyndon Station

LWML Experience

• Society: President numerous times, Secretary
• Zone: Secretary

Church: Organist, SS Superintendent and Teacher, Church Council Congregational Committee, Secretary, Organist for weddings and funerals at numerous churches

Community Service: School volunteer in the LMC, Choir Accompanist

Personal: Marie is a graduate of UW Stevens Point with a Bachelors degree in Music. She is currently retired but serving as a substitute teacher. Marie gave private piano lessons for almost 30 years. She was a Vocal/General Music Teacher in the Mauston School District, worked as an aide with the learning disabled, as well as tutored and substitute taught. Although Marie has never served at the District level, she is willing and enthusiastic to serve as Corresponding Secretary.

Vision Statement: Missions start at home and are encouraged by education and fellowship with those having the same goal. To gain members that care to join LWML and are restricted by their congregation, Article III D states “ …may form a society in a setting other than a congregation…” We should encourage these women from different congregations to join together forming a society that would join us in helping spread the news of salvation in Christ through our projects, our mites, our fellowship and prayers.

Barbara Strenger

Sheboygan Falls
Bethany Lutheran, Kohler

LWML Experience

• Society: President, Vice President, Christian Growth, Mission Circle Chairman
• Zone: President, Vice President, Christian Growth, Bylaws Committee
• District: Archivist/Historian, District Convention Co-Chair, President, 1st Vice President, 2nd Vice President, Retreat and District Convention Chairman
• National: Mission Service and Mission Project Committee, Co-chair 1981 National Convention in Milwaukee, Board of Directors

Church: Board of Finance, Chaired Capital Campaign, Treasurer, Stewardship Committee, Choir, Altar Guild, Life Light Bible Study Coordinator, SS Teacher

Community Service: Lutheran High School Board of Directors, Recruitment Committee, Capital Campaign Committee.

Personal: Barb is currently retired. She owned and operated Barb’s Stitch and Fit Shoppe, and worked in various dre