OVERVIEW:
English Lutheran Church is currently in self-study in the process of calling our next pastor. The Vision Board will use this page to post updates to our congregation about the process after agreeing to begin the call process at their May 2026 meeting.
Upon completion of the congregation-wide workshops and an onsite retreat for the Vision Board with our church consultant Cathy Cowling, we believe the congregation and the Vision Board has had ample opportunity to reflect back on the ministry and work and legacy of English Lutheran and also look toward the future, as we continue to build on our foundation of faith, service, and a shared mission.
At our annual meeting, a balanced budget that supports one full-time pastor was presented. The congregation approved the balanced budget. After much prayerful deliberation, the Vision Board believes the most reasonable path forward at this time is to seek one full-time pastor. Therefore, we will move forward with the process to call one full-time pastor.
Call Committee applications are now closed. The Vision Board is currently reviewing potential nominees and a meeting will be called in August or September 2026 to elect the Call Committee. Any questions on the call process can be directed to: Paul Moe, Vision Board President or Cara Hartfield, Vision Board Vice President.
English Lutheran Church is currently in self-study in the process of calling our next pastor. The Vision Board will use this page to post updates to our congregation about the process after agreeing to begin the call process at their May 2026 meeting.
Upon completion of the congregation-wide workshops and an onsite retreat for the Vision Board with our church consultant Cathy Cowling, we believe the congregation and the Vision Board has had ample opportunity to reflect back on the ministry and work and legacy of English Lutheran and also look toward the future, as we continue to build on our foundation of faith, service, and a shared mission.
At our annual meeting, a balanced budget that supports one full-time pastor was presented. The congregation approved the balanced budget. After much prayerful deliberation, the Vision Board believes the most reasonable path forward at this time is to seek one full-time pastor. Therefore, we will move forward with the process to call one full-time pastor.
Call Committee applications are now closed. The Vision Board is currently reviewing potential nominees and a meeting will be called in August or September 2026 to elect the Call Committee. Any questions on the call process can be directed to: Paul Moe, Vision Board President or Cara Hartfield, Vision Board Vice President.
JULY 2026 - The Vision Board, in consultation with the Bishop's Office, has decided upon a creative solution in our search for an Interim Pastor. We are confident this plan will fulfill our needs for pastoral care, worship leadership and guidance during our transition phase as we seek a new pastor. This plan involves hiring two part-time pastors: one in an Interim role and one in a Bridge role. Pastor Steve Minnema will serve as Interim and Pastor Lisa Shank will serve as Bridge.
Pastor Steve Minnema will serve in a half-time capacity to offer administrative oversight and act as head of staff. Pastor Lisa Shank will serve in a quarter-time capacity to provide general pastoral care and support. Both pastors will regularly preach and lead worship services.
Pastor Steve has extensive experience in called and interim roles and has served congregations in Wisconsin, Minnesota, Illinois and North Dakota. HIs leadership, organizational and communication gifts will be beneficial in our transition period. Pastor Lisa is currently serving as part-time Interim Pastor at Mt. Calvary Lutheran Church in Trempealeau, WI. Pastor Lisa is familiar with English Lutheran and has previously served us as a supply pastor.
Both Pastor Steve and Pastor Lisa will begin on August 1. Please join the Vision Board in welcoming these pastors in our shared mission and ministry at English Lutheran Church!
Paul Moe, Vision Board President
Pastor Steve Minnema will serve in a half-time capacity to offer administrative oversight and act as head of staff. Pastor Lisa Shank will serve in a quarter-time capacity to provide general pastoral care and support. Both pastors will regularly preach and lead worship services.
Pastor Steve has extensive experience in called and interim roles and has served congregations in Wisconsin, Minnesota, Illinois and North Dakota. HIs leadership, organizational and communication gifts will be beneficial in our transition period. Pastor Lisa is currently serving as part-time Interim Pastor at Mt. Calvary Lutheran Church in Trempealeau, WI. Pastor Lisa is familiar with English Lutheran and has previously served us as a supply pastor.
Both Pastor Steve and Pastor Lisa will begin on August 1. Please join the Vision Board in welcoming these pastors in our shared mission and ministry at English Lutheran Church!
Paul Moe, Vision Board President
MAY 2026 - Vision Board Update to the Congregation:
