2006 Convention Report

Our synod officially embarked on a very ambitious Lutheran Schools of America (LSA) program in which, by God's grace and guidance, we hope to begin two new schools or preschools per year for the next fifty years. The future of any congregation or church body is built on the children and the solid foundation provided by a thoroughly Christian education. To accomplish this exciting task, a thank offering themed For You and Your Children was formally initiated at this convention. Each member of our synod will have the opportunity to take part in this crucial effort by making a commitment of financial support. In doing so, a strong monetary reserve will be put in place, by which our congregations will be helped with "seed money" to open schools in their communities.

Accompanying this thank offering effort, Pastor Ed Bryant delivered an inspiring and informative essay entitled, For You and Your Children. In this paper, Rev. Bryant clearly identifies the ongoing secularization of our society and its educational systems. By contrast, a Lutheran school system brings God and His Word to bear on all subjects.

An adjudication panel to consider the synodical suspension of Pastor Rolf Preus was elected. This panel, consisting of three clergy and two laymen, has been charged with the responsibility of examining the documents and testimony of all the parties involved in Pastor Preus' suspension pertaining to our 2005 doctrinal statement, "The Public Ministry of the Word." Please keep this Commission on Appeals and its important work in your prayers.

The Lord has opened a new mission field for us in South Korea. Pastor Young Ha Kim has begun the work there, gathering a congregation of over one hundred people in the east section of the city of Seoul, South Korea. What an exciting privilege the Lord has granted to our ELS to spread the Gospel in this part of Asia! We should hold up this work before Him in prayer, asking God to equip and bless this mission endeavor, that by His gracious will, many blood-bought souls will be brought to their Savior, not only in South Korea, but beyond. We know that by God's loving power this work may be done, as it is being done currently in Peru, Chile, and India.

The synod's budget of $788,000 for this year was adopted. By our work and offerings our ELS is enabled to conduct mission work at home and abroad, as well as to operate our college and seminary. In addition, the various boards and committees are supported in their work.

The Rev. John A. Moldstad, Jr., was re-elected to a four-year term as our synod's president. The Rev. Glenn Obenberger was re-elected to serve a four-year term as the vice-president. May God bless their work on behalf of our congregations.

What a blessing to be part of our Evangelical Lutheran Synod. May our dear Lord keep us ever faithful to His saving Word, and ever passionate about bringing that Word to the world!