Church Council

COUNCIL MEMBERS
​Alan Bakke, President (651-353-4556)
Jeff Garritsen, Vice Pres. (651-210-2818)
Doug Thomas, Secretary
Colleen Nora, Treasurer (651-433-2774)
Laurie Carlson (651-433-5976)
Jim Moratzka
Steve Lodien 
Bonnie Olsen (651-433-2730)
Warren Zenk (651-451-6135)
Names in blue have an email address
linked to them (click to send email).

General Position Description for a Church Council Member:

Overview of the Council: The purpose and general task of the church council is to enable the congregation to carry on its mission and ministries as a part of the church of Jesus Christ and to oversee the total life of the congregation. The church council consists of not more than 16 members (including President, Vice-President, Secretary, and Treasurer) plus the pastor(s). All council members plus the pastor(s) are voting members.

Responsibilities: The church council serves as a board of directors and also as the trustees of the congregation. Its responsibilities are indicated in Article IX of the ELCA Approved Constitution.

Relationships: The church council is directly responsible to the congregation. It shall be responsive to the will of the congregation, arrange regular communication with its members before and after its meetings, and involve as many members as possible in the life and ministries of the congregation. It shall submit a formal summary report of its activities to the congregation at an annual meeting.

Time Required:
  • The Council presently meets the 3rd Thursday of every month. Traditionally there is no meeting in July.
  • Serve as chairperson or liaison to a ministry group of the congregation (Membership, Stewardship, Property, Technology, etc).
  • Lead devotions and prayers at council meeting about once a year.
  • Assist with serving communion in worship about four times a year.
  • Length of term: Three years. A member of the congregation may serve a maximum of two consecutive terms in a row.

Personal Obligations of a Church Leader:
  • To attend worship regularly.
  • To receive the Sacrament of Holy Communion and periodically assist the pastors with the distribution.
  • Bring the concerns of the congregation to the Council.
  • To give regular financial support to the church as God may prosper.
  • To support the pastor and other staff members in their mutual ministry.
  • To be a pattern of faithful living in words and deeds.

Training Expectations:
  • Participation in an annual church council retreat. (Usually the first Saturday in February)
  • Become familiar with council and specific committee or position job descriptions.