CLICK HERE TO DOWNLOAD THE 2023 PROPOSED BUDGET
CLICK HERE TO DOWNLOAD THE 2023 COUNCIL BROCHURE
Nativity Lutheran Church
Council Election 2023
What is Nativity Council?
Nativity Council is the governing board for Nativity Lutheran Church. The Council is made up of the officers of the congregation, President, Vice President, Secretary and Treasurer, Senior Pastor and 4-6 members of Nativity identified as “members at large.” Terms of service are two-year terms, with council members serving up to three terms (6 years).
The Council focuses on vision for the future, defining budget to accomplish that vision and setting policy as needed to govern the vision. Nativity Council does not manage the day-to-day ministry of Nativity. Nativity Staff with the leadership of the Senior Pastor develop, implement, and give oversight to the day-to-day ministries. Nativity Council has identified priorities and initiatives for 2023. Council meets 11 times a year and meetings last approximately 2 hours.
Council minutes are available in hard copy at the Welcome Desk and online at www.nativitychurch.org.
Elections for Church Officers and Council, December 3-4, 2022
Congregational Meeting for the Election of Officers and Council and to approve the 2023 Budget will convene December 3rd and 4th, 2022, after all worship hours and via Zoom at 6:40 p.m. on December 4th. Information about the proposed 2023 budget and Nativity Council candidates and officers will be available for viewing online beginning Friday, November 25, 2022, at 5:00 p.m.
Elections
Church Officers and Council are volunteer positions. This is why you will only see one name suggested for each position to be filled. The names are presented to the congregation as an approving election. This means that the congregation has a process whereby the community can dialog about suggested names and upon a rare occasion suggest another if a serious concern is raised.
LEAVING THE COUNCIL – With Gratitude for Their Service
With gratitude for Emily Sauey, who served as Member at Large
Nativity Council 2023
The following Nativity members are on the ballot for the December 3-4 Congregational Meeting:
Karen Volker, President, 1-year term
I live in Vadnais Heights with my husband and two daughters, Anika (20) and Jaden (17), and have attended Nativity for 21 years. I truly appreciate the openness of the congregation to receive everyone, irrespective of their background or where they are in their faith journey. I am energized by our willingness to engage in dialogue regarding our mission, even when it is challenging, and to strive to answer our call. And I am grateful for the nurturing support Nativity has provided for our family over the years.
Donna Steinwand, Vice President – Nominated, 1-year term
My husband Jim and I are regulars at the Saturday evening worship service. We were married here in 1995 and love this community. Most recently, we worked to make the Abundant Harvest meal a reality. Together with the volunteers and diners, we raised $1000 for the Little Kitchen Food Shelf! This is an example of one of the many reasons Nativity is a special place – taking an idea and making it happen and openness to trying something new. I’m overwhelmed by the generosity and welcoming nature of this congregation, and it’s care for those on the margins of society. Isn’t that what God asks of us? And isn’t that how we strive to live in God’s grace? I’ve been on the Nativity Council before in several capacities and am looking forward to serving on council again. Let’s explore together where God is leading us!
Jodi DeFeyter, – Nominated Secretary of the Congregation, 2-year term
In 2005, my husband and I were in search of a church where we both felt at home. My sister-in-law (Nancy Karkula) recommended we attend a service at Nativity. After one Saturday night service our search was over. My husband John and I, have 3 children, Renee (14), Jay (11) and Reid (11) and they keep us very busy. I love that our children have grown up at Nativity and how valued, accepted and comfortable we have always felt here. I have always appreciated the many opportunities Nativity facilitates to serve our congregation and our community. Not only opportunities for myself but for the entire family. I very much appreciate this opportunity to serve on the Nativity Council and hope to help continue to make Nativity a place where members are valued, accepted and comforted.
Erik Hegg, – Nominated for Treasurer of the congregation, 2-year term
I was born and raised in Sioux Falls. My wife and I and our two girls (4 and 2) live in Arden Hills. I work at a community bank in Coon Rapids. We were drawn to Nativity by the sense of inclusiveness that permeates the church as well as the wonderful music program. As our girls get older, we look forward to getting them involved in faith formation and other children’s programs.
A full brochure with returning Council members will be available prior to the Congregational Meeting.