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The Call Committee (consisting of Janet Kardatzke, Caitlin Scarpelli, Stacie Plzak, Don Dibbern, Jonathon Silkaitis, Rene Buchman, and Elaine Sherman as alternate) met with the Congregation Council and The Rev. Kyle Severson, assistant to Bishop Yeheil Curry.  Pastor Kyle outlined the call process and offered helpful guidance.

The details of the Call process:

The process averages around 60 days. 

The Synod provides a slate of 3 candidates.  Additional candidates are provided if all of the first slate has been rejected.  Statistically 2/3 of congregations choose a candidate from the 1st round.

The call committee operates independently from the Council but offers a general report of progress regularly.

All members of the call committee must be present for interviews as the committee functions as a whole. 

The committee reviews the profile of a candidate, interviews the candidate, and may observe an online sermon and then decide if they wish to move to a second interview.

As the process moves forward, if the candidate is interested in moving forward as well, references will be checked.

When a chosen candidate is identified, the information is forwarded to the Congregation Council for discussion and negotiation.

The Council will interview the candidate and make arrangements for a “meet and greet” with the congregation before a congregational vote at a congregational meeting.

A 2/3 favorable vote is required (however hopefully the vote is more affirming than 2/3) the congregation then issues a call and the candidate has 30 days to accept or reject.

In addition to learning of the call process, compensation figures were reviewed. It was requested the Synod only send candidates that fit into our compensation range.  Pastor Kyle explained that the cost of insurance might increase based on the candidate’s age, marriage status and children.  Relocation may also be part of salary negotiations, and the Congregation pays for transportation to interviews.  

Everyone in attendance responded to possible concerns about persons of color or LGBTIA+ status, and it was unanimous that LoL can move forward with candidates that possess these qualities.   Please keep our call committee and the process in constant prayer:   

Lord God, you taught the hearts of your faithful people by sending them the light of your Holy Spirit.  Grant that we, by your Spirit may have a right judgment in all things and evermore rejoice in the Spirit’s counsel.  We pray in the name of Jesus Christ our Lord.  Amen