Earlier this month, I had the opportunity to attend the Western North Dakota Synod Assembly in Minot, along with Tim and Beth Huseth. It was a meaningful time of worship, learning, and fellowship with others from across our Synod. One important topic discussed was the growing number of congregations being served by SAMs—Synodically Authorized Ministers. Currently, 30 - 40 congregations in our Synod are served in this way.
A SAM is a local individual approved by the Synod to serve a specific congregation by leading worship, conducting official acts typically reserved for ordained pastors, making visits, and providing spiritual leadership. While not ordained clergy, SAMs are trained, interviewed, and annually monitored by the Synod. The congregation contracts directly with the SAM for duties and compensation. Given the ongoing shortage of ordained pastors, the Synod encourages congregations like ours to consider this as a faithful, short term path forward. Anybody interested?
Many of you may remember Pastor Tera Kossow, Assistant to the Bishop, who provided pulpit supply for us in May. Her role includes walking alongside congregations as they discern and look to the future. I have invited her to return in September to begin that conversation with us. Please make every effort to attend those sessions when they are announced—your voice and presence will be important as we look to the future together.
I also met recently with Sister Mary at St. Aloisius Hospital. She serves as a chaplain for anyone in need—whether in the emergency room, swing bed, or long-term care. She is available 24/7 and I encourage you to ask for her services if the need arises for you or your loved ones.
Finally, thank you for your continued generosity. Because of your support, the elevator has been repaired, new TV screens for worship will be installed in August, and we continue to meet our financial obligations. Your gifts make a real difference.
First Lutheran Church remains a special and sacred place in our lives. Thank you for all you do to keep this community strong.
Godspeed,
Ted Sitz
A SAM is a local individual approved by the Synod to serve a specific congregation by leading worship, conducting official acts typically reserved for ordained pastors, making visits, and providing spiritual leadership. While not ordained clergy, SAMs are trained, interviewed, and annually monitored by the Synod. The congregation contracts directly with the SAM for duties and compensation. Given the ongoing shortage of ordained pastors, the Synod encourages congregations like ours to consider this as a faithful, short term path forward. Anybody interested?
Many of you may remember Pastor Tera Kossow, Assistant to the Bishop, who provided pulpit supply for us in May. Her role includes walking alongside congregations as they discern and look to the future. I have invited her to return in September to begin that conversation with us. Please make every effort to attend those sessions when they are announced—your voice and presence will be important as we look to the future together.
I also met recently with Sister Mary at St. Aloisius Hospital. She serves as a chaplain for anyone in need—whether in the emergency room, swing bed, or long-term care. She is available 24/7 and I encourage you to ask for her services if the need arises for you or your loved ones.
Finally, thank you for your continued generosity. Because of your support, the elevator has been repaired, new TV screens for worship will be installed in August, and we continue to meet our financial obligations. Your gifts make a real difference.
First Lutheran Church remains a special and sacred place in our lives. Thank you for all you do to keep this community strong.
Godspeed,
Ted Sitz