Reports - Central Illinois District - Lutheran Church Missouri Synod

President’s ReportAs I write this report to cover the past three years, one can only give thanks to our gracious God thatHe has chosen me and allowed me to serve Him and the Central Illinois District. He has certainlyblessed us in many ways, especially giving us the opportunity to tell the Good News about Jesus tomany people. I will strive to share the more important happenings. Although many other things tookplace, all will not be reported due to lack of space.“Born again to a living hope” is the theme for our convention. St. Peter wrote this in his first letter, thefirst chapter. We are fellow pilgrims on a journey. There are people on this journey who are a greatwitness in all they do. We see their humility, their integrity, and their spirit of devotion as they live aspeople of God. They present a powerful testimony to their faith in Christ.In Baptism God calls us to be His own. Through the Gospel the Holy Spirit moves and motivates us todiscover that we are pilgrims on a journey to heaven. We are not homeless people who have nowhereto go. There is a vast difference between homeless people and pilgrims. A pilgrim is one who knowswhere he is going.Baptism is God’s act. In Baptism God takes the sinful person and draws him into the very life, death,and resurrection of Christ. This new birth in Baptism is the birth to a life of hope because it is in unionwith Christ who rose from the dead.This hope is God’s gift to each of us. We can be assured that He who has made us right with Godthrough His life, death, and resurrection will keep all of His promises to us and will someday give usthe crown of glory. Such a hope motivates our journey through life.The Central Illinois District is a part of the Lutheran Church – Missouri Synod. Our church body hasdivided itself into 35 districts. We have 156 congregations and several preaching stations in our districtwhich have been great supporters of the church body not only through their offerings, but also havebeen strong adherents to our doctrinal position. Our district continues to be a beacon of confessionalLutheran doctrine and practice. For this and for you who are all a part of the district, I give thanks toGod.100 YearsIn 1905 the Synod approved a request to divide the Illinois District. At the 1907 Convention of theIllinois District, it was decided to become three districts at which time each elected officers. The newdistricts were officially approved at the Synod Convention in 1908. The first conventions were held in1909. When did the Central Illinois District begin? We can choose any of 3 years – 1907, 1908, or1909.In 1907 there were five circuits. Fifty years later there were ten circuits. There were fourteen circuitsby the year 1982. Twenty-five years later (2007) were 16 circuits strong. Where will the district be by2032?MissionsThe Central Illinois District has always been very concerned about mission and outreach, both at homeand around the world. Word and Sacrament ministry is being carried on and new congregations arebeing planted. You can read more about this under Rev. Cluver’s report. I would also encourage youto join us for our next Great Commission Convocation to be held November 9, 2009, in Bloomingtonfeaturing Dr. Wallace Schulz.Our purpose as district staff is to assist and support the work of the people of Central Illinois is sharingthe message of God’s tremendous love in Christ, the forgiveness of sins and eternal life, with ourneighbors, friends, and relatives. This is in keeping with the Mission and Ministry Statement which2009 Convention Section B – Reports Page 1

was adopted at our district convention 21 years ago. We are actively involved in ministry to the deaf,the developmentally challenged, college and university students, and those in our prisons.Not only do we share our financial resources with the Synod to help educate future church workers, butalso to support our Synod’s mission work throughout the world. In addition to this, we have developeda partnership with the Evangelical Lutheran Church of Latvia (ELCL). We usually visit in Latvia atleast once a year and invite them to come and share what is happening in their world with us.At our last District Convention, Archbishop Janis Vanags was with us. July 28-30, 2006, my son Keithand I attended the “Church Days” in Latvia. It was a great experience to participate in workshops andworship with our fellow Lutherans. Our District and LCMS World Relief/Human Care assisted ourcircuit councilors and a few others in visiting Latvia November 1-10, 2006. December 8-18 our districthosted the Archbishop, his wife, and Rev. Eglitis for a visit.I was invited to participate in the consecration of two bishops for the ELCL on October 13, 2007. Mywife and I and our son Kris were impressed with the festivities. We also took the opportunity to visitthe work of the diaconal center (relief efforts) in the three Baltic States. My last visit was in March of2008. My wife and I plan to attend “Church Days” at the end of July.Camp CILCACamp CILCA, which is owned by the CID and operated by the Central Illinois Lutheran CampAssociation has undergone some recent changes. The CID and the district Lutheran Layman’s League(LLL) each appoint 6 people to serve on the Camp CILCA board. A new executive director has comeon board – Rev. Chuck Johnson. We wish him and the board God’s richest blessings as they begin anew chapter in the life of the camp. We thank former director Rich Harkins for his past 18 years ofservice. Rich followed me as Camp Director when I accepted the call to St. James, Quincy. I hadserved as camp director from 1978-1990. There is an annual Camp CILCA meeting at the CID officethe second Saturday of January at 2:00 pm.The camp offers excellent camping opportunities for all ages. There are winterized facilities so retreatscan be held throughout the year. There are challenge courses and a wide variety of activities on the200+ acres. If you have never been to camp or if you have not been there for some time, I wouldsuggest you visit and find out what is available. There is a very Christ-centered program throughoutthe summer for children with very qualified future church workers serving as counselors.StaffI am very happy to report that the district has a very capable staff. Our Administrative assistants: Rev.Joel Cluver, Mr. Glenn Goeres, Rev. Wesley Reimnitz, and Mr. David Rohe (part-time in Giftplanning) bring a wealth of knowledge and experience in a variety of areas. Each excels in their area ofexpertise and I thank them for their fine work. I am also very grateful for the faithful services of Mrs.Marsha Shown who has served the District for over ten years as our Administrative Secretary andReceptionist. We also very much appreciate our part-time bookkeeper Kim Randall. Both are sohelpful to all of us in the office and those contact the office.Special ThanksI am grateful for our District Praesidium that includes first vice president Rev. Donald Pritchard andsecond vice president Rev. Daniel Bishop. They have given me much advice and assistance in the pastthree years. I am also thankful for the sixteen Circuit Counselors who have contributed much effort in2009 Convention Section B – Reports Page 2

helping with vacancies and problems in congregations. I thank the congregations that allow theirpastors to serve as Circuit Counselors. I am not sure that all our congregations know how important itis to elect the best men to serve as Circuit Counselors. I certainly appreciate their work and service.Presidential DutiesI have looked over my calendars for the past three years to determine where much of my time is spent.The following does not include the various private consultations with many pastors, but does accountfor some of my basic activities:39 Installations and/or Ordinations in which I participated, preaching at 817 Board of Director’s meetings13 Council of President meetings that average about 4 days in length15 District Lutheran Laymen and Lutheran Women’s Missionary League meetings59 Special services, including church anniversaries, pastor anniversaries, funerals,Dedications, ground breaking ceremonies, and graduations33 Other worship services82 Special meetings (call, voters, circuit, Pre-seminary interviews, elders, ELCAAnd UCC congregations looking into switching, and CID committeesSynodical Convention in Houston – July 14-19, 2007Preaching at Ft. Wayne Seminary Baccalaureate Service – May 16, 2008In addition to my presidential duties, at the close of our convention in 2003, the District Board removedour Business Manager and has not filled the position, but asked me to serve in that capacity on atemporary basis, which I was willing to do. Three years ago we did not replace the President’ssecretary when she sought other employment. With the computer age the need for secretarial help hasdecreased and it also helps our district budget. In early 2006 the Mission Commission asked if I wouldbe willing to supervise a vicar at the mission in Buffalo. The first vicar, Kevin DeHope, began the endof July 2006. Since then we have had Ron Bacic and S. Wade Turner. This was my first experiencewith supervising vicars and it has been interesting and enjoyable experience.ConclusionI am truly grateful to my Lord and Savior Who has given me the abilities and strength to serve in thisoffice. I am very thankful for my very supportive wife of 46 years, Charlotte, and for my whole familywith which the Lord has blessed me. I am thankful for the pastors and members of our congregationswho have remained faithful to God’s Word and the Lutheran Confessions.I would respectfully request that each person of the Central Illinois District regularly pray for ourchurch, for our officers, for our ordained and commissioned church workers, and for the lay people thatthe Lord’s work can be accomplished through us. I pray daily for the congregations and pastors of ourdistrict and I really covet your prayers so I that I can do the work the Lord has called me to do. Wewant to ask God to keep us ever faithful and help us in telling the Good News about Jesus. Althoughthe devil constantly tries to lead us astray and causes difficulties to arise, yet we know that Christ hasconcurred all by His sacrifice on the cross. Being strengthened by Word and Sacraments, we can, withGod’s help and direction, keep in mind that we are “Born again to a living hope.”Rev. David Bueltmann2009 Convention Section B – Reports Page 3

PASTORS & GRADUATES ENTERING THE DISTRICT(ORDINATION/INSTALLATION DATES: APRIL 2006-APRIL 2009)Adle, Scott T. (FTW 08) ordained and installed at St. John, Secor, 6/29/08 by Rev. David J.Bueltmann.Anderson, Steven L. (IE) serving as Principal at Christ Lutheran High School, Rock Island,2/1/09Bahr, Michael J. (STL 08) ordained and installed at Trinity, Bluffs, 6/29/08 by Rev. David J.Bueltmann.Bergelin, David (STL 05) ordained at Trinity, Howards Grove, WI, 9/11/05 by Rev. DarrelBergelin and installed at St. Paul, Lexington, 10/16/05 by Rev. David J. Bueltmann.Bessinger, David H. (NID) installed at St. Paul, Mattoon, 9/16/07 by Rev. David J.Bueltmann.Blankschaen, Randy M. (FTW 08) ordained at Ascension, Ft. Wayne, 5/4/08 by Rev. Dr.Walter A. Maier III and installed at Christ, Normal, 6/22/08 by Rev. David J. Bueltmann.Brown, Earl (FTW 06) ordained and installed at St. John, Effingham, 6/25/06 by Rev. WayneHoffman.Bushre, Christopher (NE) installed at St. John, Geneseo, 9/6/08 by Rev. David J. Bueltmann.Chambers, Danny E. (FTW 07) ordained and installed at St. Paul, Manito, 3/25/07 by Rev.David J. Bueltmann.Countryman, Troy (STL 08) ordained at St. John’s, Mattoon, 6/22/08 by Rev. Paul Garchowand installed at St. John’s, Mattoon, 6/22/08 by Rev. Bruce Osborne.Decker, Christopher (FL/GA) installed at Trinity, Cissna Park, 4/28/07 by Rev. David J.Bueltmann.Disbro, Roger E (OH) on non-candidate status 4/5/07Evenson, Douglas (FTW 06) ordained at St. John, Champaign, 6/11/06 by Rev. David J.Bueltmann and installed at St. John, Beardstown, 6/25/06 by Rev. David J. Bueltmann.Garvue, Donald R. (IN) Emeritus, Springfield, IL, 12/31/06Gauger, William J. (STL 08) ordained and installed at St. Luke, Itasca, 7/13/08 by Rev.David J. Bueltmann.Grieve, Michael (FTW 07) ordained at St. Paul, Chatfield, MN, 7/1/07 by Rev. Preston Pauland installed at Holy Cross, Golden, 7/8/07 by Rev. Harold Bender, Jr.Gullen, James (SID) Emeritus, Jacksonville, IL, 12/31/08Heren, Thomas L. (NID) installed at Our Savior, Washington, 7/15/07 by Rev. DonaldPritchard.Kolb, Peter C. (TX) installed at Holy Cross, Vandalia, 6/18/06 by Rev. David J. Bueltmann.Janssen, Carl (NID) Emeritus, Watseka, IL, 6/9/06Janssen, Samuel (FTW 08) ordained and installed at Good Shepherd, Rochester, 8/3/08 byRev. Donald Pritchard.Johnson, John E. (SID) Emeritus, Lincoln, IL, 3/26/07Lakamp, Bruce (IW) Emeritus, East Peoria, IL, 12/8/08Love, Donald G. (MNN) installed at Calvary, Watseka, 4/30/06 by Rev. David J. Bueltmann.Mably, Martin W. (STL 07) ordained and installed at Our Savior, Springfield, 7/8/07 by Rev.David J. Bueltmann.2009 Convention Section B – Reports Page 4

Majewski, Aloysois (STL 06) ordained at St. Paul, Hamburg, MI, 6/25/06 by Rev. GalanWalther and installed at St. Paul, Manito, 7/16/06 by Rev. David J. Bueltmann.Manor, Jonathan J. (MI) installed at Our Redeemer, Bloomington, 11/18/07 by Rev. David J.Bueltmann.Meyer, Benjamin C. (MO) installed at St. Paul, Woodworth, 7/6/08 by Rev. Carl Janssen.Meyer, Edward H. (MO) Emeritus, Salem, IL, 7/31/07Meyer, Joseph M. (OK) installed at Redeemer, Peoria, 6/8/08 by Rev. David J. Bueltmann.Mueller, Stephen M. (STL 08) ordained and installed at St. James, Quincy, 8/3/08 by Rev.David J. Bueltmann.Nelson, Mark J. (STL 07) ordained and installed at Trinity, Peoria, 6/3/07 by Rev. David J.Bueltmann.Nitzel, Christopher (STL 06) ordained and installed at Trinity, Bloomington, 7/2/06 by Rev.David J. Bueltmann.Ohlwine, Arthur A. (MN) Candidate 5/15/08Schellhas, Aaron M. (STL 08) ordained at St. Luke, Itasca, 6/8/08 by Rev. Terry McReynoldsand installed at Christ, Peoria, 7/20/08 by Rev. David J. Bueltmann.Schmidt, Justin (ND) installed at Peace, Thomasboro, 11/23/08 by Rev. Carl Janssen.Schnelle, Aaron D. (IN) installed at Trinity, Springfield, 1/11/09 by Rev. David J. Bueltmann.Seidenstricker, Michael R. (STL 07) ordained and installed at Grace, Canton, 1/27/07 byRev. David J. Bueltmann.Senter, John D. (MO) Emeritus, Metamora, IL, 11/19/07Serr, Kenneth (STL 09) ordained and installed at Grace, Canton, 6/14/09 by David J.Bueltmann.Sharp, John (KS) installed at Immanuel, Broadlands, 4/19/09 by Rev. David J. Bueltmann.Thompson, Mark (IW) installed at Zion, Lincoln, 1/7/07 by Rev. David J. Bueltmann.Vail, Clayton G. (OH) Emeritus, Springfield, IL, 1/1/08Weber, Paul (SID) Special Ministries, 8/27/08Weiler, J. Scott (STL 07) ordained and installed at Trinity, Danville, to serve at St. Joseph,6/17/07 by Rev. David J. Bueltmann.Wendler, Harlan C. (MO) Emeritus, Springfield, IL, 8/18/08Wohlrabe, John (MO) installed at Concordia, Geneseo, 6/28/09 by David J. Bueltmann.Woodworth, Dr. Harold G. (southern) Emeritus, Springfield, IL, 10/1/07CHANGES OF PASTORS WITHIN THE DISTRICTBueltmann, Keith A., active to candidate 7/15/08Childs, James A., active to candidate 6/30/06Countryman, Troy, assistant to associate, St. John, Mattoon, 2/1/09 by Rev. Bruce Osborne.Cramm, Kevin, U.S. Military, 1/29/06 by Rev. Richard MayerCunningham, Kirk R., Christ, Mason City, 8/27/06 by Rev. David J. Bueltmann.Eddy, Mark R., Zion, Taylor Ridge, 7/30/06 by Rev. Daniel Olson.Eden, Martin Our Redeemer, Quincy, 6/14/09 by Rev. David J. Bueltmann.Ehlers, David, assistant to candidate 5/10/06Emrick, William C., St. Peter, St. Peter, 4/22/07 by Rev. Donald Pritchard.Gallo, Stephen F., Immanuel, Rock Island, 8/13/06 by Rev. David J. Bueltmann.Gauger, William J., associate to candidate 1/23/092009 Convention Section B – Reports Page 5

Hafermann, John E., Our Redeemer, Forsyth, 4/2/06 by Rev. David J. Bueltmann.Johnson, John E., Christ, Mason City, 1/18/09 by Rev. David J. Bueltmann.Kaufmann, Philip, sole pastor to senior pastor, Christ, Normal, 6/22/08 by Rev. David J.Bueltmann.Kinnee, L. Earl, active to candidate 11/1/08Mrosko, Robert, St. Paul, Decatur, 3/4/07 by Rev. David J. Bueltmann.Olson, Daniel A., St. John, Buckley, 8/31/08 by Rev. David J. Bueltmann.Radtke, Thomas G., assistant to senior pastor, Trinity, Springfield, 1/21/07 by Rev. David J.Bueltmann.Rees, James, active to candidate 6/1/05Rempfer, Marlin, sole pastor to senior pastor, St. James, Quincy, 8/3/08 by Rev. David J.Bueltmann.Seidenstricker, Michael R., Good Shepherd, Newton, 4/6/08 by Rev. David J. Bueltmann.Strom, Terry A., Trinity, Urbana, 10/15/06 by Rev. David J. Bueltmann.Vail, Clayton G., Bethlehem, Altamont, 2/3/08 by Rev. David J. Bueltmann.Wagner, Ronald, Trinity, Roanoke, 2/1/09 by Rev. David J. Bueltmann.PASTORS TRANSFERRED TO OTHER DISTRICTSCramm, Kevin to Military 1/06Dieterichs, Joel to Rocky Mountain District 5/23/08Dorr, Paul H. to English District 6/10/08Haller, Mark J. to Michigan District 6/15/08Hartman, Stephen E. to South Dakota District 10/10/07Klingbeil, Kurt C. to South Wisconsin District 8/15/07Kolesar, Michael to Iowa East District 4/1/08Krueger, Delmar to Ohio District 1/1/07Muenchow, Fred to Oklahoma District 9/11/09Pritchard, Griffith F. to Rocky Mountain District 2/1/07Recks, John to Indiana District 6/10/08Robinson, Geoffrey L. to Indiana District 8/1/07Salcido, Richard to Iowa West District 7/1/08Schuessler, Mitchel to Southern Illinois District 2/2/09Skillman, Daniel R. to Ohio District 9/20/06Wohletz, Roger to Rocky Mountain District 2/9/09PASTORS RESIGNED, REMOVED OR RETIREDBlock, James H. Emeritus 5/23/08Childs, James A. Resigned 9/1/06Goetz, Lawrence Emeritus 12/28/06Hafermann, John E. Resigned 7/1/08Handrich, Douglas O. Resigned 3/16/08Hartman, Stephen E. Emeritus 8/31/07Krause, Theodore C. Resigned 5/19/08Likeness, David Emeritus 11/30/062009 Convention Section B – Reports Page 6

Lohnes, Mark S. Resigned 12/31/04Podoll, Lynn A. Emeritus 7/1/08Pohlers, Donald Resigned 8/9/07Simminger, K. Michael Emeritus 8/31/06Strong, Michael Emeritus 11/15/06Yount, Robert Emeritus 1/1/05Brooks, Ernest H. 7/18/06Cross, Carl E. Jr. 8/1/07Cunningham, J. Robert 1/5/09Jirovec, Dymann L. 6/16/08Korte, Carl E. 2/15/09Lange, William H. 11/1/07Peters, Edgar 3/21/09Schmidt, P. Ronald 11/20/07Woods, Robert A. 2/6/08PASTORS CALLED TO GLORYCONGREGATIONS ADDED TO DISTRICTSt. Paul, Woodworth transferred from Northern Illinois District 5/18/08CONGREGATIONS DISBANDED OR REMOVED FROM THE DISTRICTHoly Cross, Peoria resigned 3/16/08Our Redeemer, Forsyth resigned 7/1/08St. John, Topeka disbanded 10/26/082009 Convention Section B – Reports Page 7

COMMISSIONED MINISTERS & GRADUATES ENTERING THE DISTRICTAgard, Jennifer, (CID) installed as teacher at Our Savior’s, Springfield on 8/19/07 by Rev.Wayne Hoffman.Bauer, Tiffany Lee, (Chicago 07) commissioned and installed as teacher at St. John,Champaign on 8/17/08 by Rev. Mark Elliott.Beadle, Karen J., (Ann Arbor 03) commissioned and installed as teacher at Trinity, Urbanaon 8/21/06 by Rev. Hal Teuscher.Beadle, Michael L., (MI) installed as DCE at Trinity, Urbana on 8/05/06 by Rev. HalTeuscher.Biggs, Brian A., (NID) was installed as teacher at Trinity, Springfield on 8/17/08 by Rev. Dr.Thomas Radtke.Bowles, Debra D., (Colloquy 07) commissioned and installed as teacher at St. James, Quincyon 8/22/07 by Rev. Marlin Remfer.Bratz, Joseph E., (Wisconsin 07) commissioned and installed as teacher at Concordia, Peoriaon 8/31/08 by Rev. James Bettermann.Buchinger, Christine, (Fort Wayne 08) commissioned and installed as deaconess at Mt.Calvary, Peoria on 8/05/08 by Rev. Barry Long.Busseau, Craig R., (CNH) installed as principal at Salem, Jacksonville on 8/27/07 by Rev.Peter Brechbuhl.Buth, Shannon L. (Chicago 07) commissioned and installed as DCE at St. John, East Molineon 9/26/07 by Rev. Kent Umbarger.Dippel (Birge), Laura A., (Wisconsin 06) commissioned and installed as teacher at St. John,Buckley on 6/4/06 by Rev. Mark Haller.Dunn, Steven E., (NE) installed as DCE at St. Peter, East Peoria on 11/11/07 by Rev. KurtMews.Fischer, Curtis E., (NE) installed as executive director at Lutheran High School, Springfieldon 7/01/07 by Rev. Thomas Radtke.Folkmann, Stacy B., (NID) installed as teacher at St. John, Champaign on 8/19/07 by Rev.Mark Elliott.Fuiten, Pamela Rae, (Colloquy 79) commissioned and installed as teacher at Zion, Lincoln byRev. Ronald Schmidt.Gerberding, Jill, (Colloquy 05) commissioned and installed as teacher at Our Savior’s,Springfield on 8/14/07 by Rev. Wayne Hoffman.Gierstorf, Sarah, (MO) installed as teacher at St. James, Quincy on 8/17/2008 by Rev. MarlinRempfer.Gillis, Christine M., (Wisconsin 06) commissioned and installed as teacher at Trinity,Bloomington on 8/20/06 by Rev. Thomas Wirsing.Greene, Janine M., (CNH) installed as teacher at St. John, Champaign on 8/17/08 by Rev.Mark Elliott.Grube, Aaron E., (Chicago 08) commissioned and installed as DCE at Mt. Calvary, Decaturon 6/10/08 by Rev. Michael Damery.Guengerich, Leslie (Wisconsin 07) commissioned and installed as teacher at Good Shepherd,Pekin on 8/19/07 by Rev. Thomas Wenndt.2009 Convention Section B – Reports Page 8

Gullen, Linda (SID) installed as teacher at Salem, Jacksonville on 8/24/08 by Rev. PeterBrechbuhl.Hennig, Denise (SID) installed as teacher at Lutheran High School, Springfield 8/29/2006.Hinck, Annie C., (Nebraska 08) commissioned and installed as teacher at Bethel, Morton on6/10/08 by Rev. Jeffrey Anderson.Homan, Megan, (Nebraska 08) commissioned and installed as teacher at Good Shepherd,Pekin on 9/21/08 by Rev. Mark Miller.Hudgins, Barbara A., (NID) transferred to CID as candidate on 12/10/08.Imes, Christopher P., (PSW) installed as DCE at St. John, Effingham on 6/17/07 by Rev.Theodore Gall.Janssen, Sharon, installed as preschool teacher at Trinity, Taylorville on 9/10/2006 by Rev.Rodney Blomquist.Jones, Wesley, (Chicago 06) commissioned and installed as teacher at Altamont LutheranInterparish School on 8/20/06 by Rev. Geoffrey Robinson.Kohl, Elizabeth, (Chicago 08) commissioned and installed as DCE at Good Shepherd,Sherman 1/04/2009 by Rev. James Stuenkel.Kuehl, Amanda, (Wisconsin 06) commissioned and installed as teacher at Concordia, Peoriaon 9/09/07 by Rev. Ronald Miller.Lamberti, Jennifer, (Colloquy 08) commissioned and installed as teacher at Christ, Peoria on8/21/08 by Rev. Karl Eckhoff.Landskroener, Nathan L., (CID) installed as principal at St. James, Quincy on 8/19/07 byRev. Marlin Remfer.Michel, Susan J., (NWI) transferred to CID as non-candidate on 1/3/07.Rieches, Jill R., (Chicago 07) commissioned and installed as teacher at Trinity, Bloomingtonon 8/13/07 by Rev. Thomas Wirsing.Sandmann, Danny C., (MI) was installed as principal at St. John, Buckley on 1/21/07 by Rev.Mark Haller.Seggebruch, Lindsey, (Chicago 06) commissioned and installed as teacher at St. John,Buckley on 8/20/06 by Rev. Mark Haller.Smith, Donna A., (MI) was installed as teacher at Trinity, Bloomington on 8/19/07 by Rev.Thomas Wirsing.Spaeth, Cori L., (Nebraska 07) commissioned and installed as teacher at Good Shepherd,Pekin on 8/19/07 by Rev. Rodger Abatie.Spitz, Sandra J. (Colloquy 2009) commissioned and installed as teacher at Christ HighSchool, Buckley on 4/25/2009) by Rev. Daniel Olson.Weber, Heather, (SID) was transferred to CID as a non-candidate on 9/11/08.Wiegle, Emilie, (St. Paul 08) commissioned and installed as DCE at Concordia EvangelicalLutheran Church, Geneseo on 7/06/2008 by Rev. Daniel Olson.Weimer, Emily G., (Nebraska 08) commissioned and installed as teacher at Concordia,Springfield on 8/17/08 by Rev. James Hennig.Younghouse, Kurt, (IN) was installed as teacher at the LSA, Decatur on 8/17/08 by Rev.William Gauger.COMMISSIONED MINISTER CHANGES WITHIN THE DISTRICTAltenberd, Eric to non-candidate on 4/01/20092009 Convention Section B – Reports Page 9

Blakely, Susan Jo to non-candidate on 3/01/08.Bueltmann, Kevin J. to candidate on 9/01/08.Cunningham, Karen to non-candidate on 4/01/08.Duensing, Don W., (CID) installed as principal at Lutheran High School, Springfield on7/01/07 by Rev. Thomas Radtke.Fliege, Judith B. to emeritus on 7/01/06.Foster, Carmen to non-candidate on 3/1/08.Friedrich, Karen, teacher at Our Savior, Springfield accepted call (4/2009) to serve as teacherat Lutheran High School, Springfield.Garvue, Kimberly L., (CID) was installed as teacher at Trinity, Springfield on 8/17/08 byRev. Thomas Radtke.Hinz, Kenneth E. to emeritus on 7/01/06.Hohfield, Elizabeth J. to emeritus on 7/01/07.Hunsley Diane S., (CID) installed as teacher at Zion, Lincoln on 8/20/06 by Rev. RonaldSchmidt.Keup, Allan L. to emeritus on 12/17/08.Nitz, Ralph to emeritus on 6/01/07.Petersen, Enoch A., (CID) installed as missionary to Board for Mission Services on 9/28/08by Rev. Wayne Hoffman.Petersen, Kristin to non-candidate on 8/01/08.Quigg, Juliann M., (CID) was installed as teacher at Lutheran High School, Springfield on8/28/07 by Rev. James Stuenkel.Rumbold, Sharon to emeritus on 7/01/08.Ruppert, Thomas to emeritus on 7/01/2009.Schaefer, Linda E. to emeritus on 12/31/06.Sickles, Diane L. to non-candidate on 2/01/09.Thornsbrough, Kurt, A. to non-candidate on 7/01/08.Trickel, Donald R. to emeritus on 2/02/09.COMMISSIONED MINISTERS TRANSFERRED TO OTHER DISTRICTSCluver, Daniel D. to Southeastern on 8/11/07.Cunningham, Karen to Missouri on 4/01/08.Dunn, Steven Eric to Southern Illinois on 8/30/08.Durbin, Anne to Northern Illinois on 11/2008Falcone, Garry K. to Northern Illinois on 8/31/07.Grewe, Mark to Pacific Southwest on 7/01/07.Heibel, Matthew S. to Nebraska on 6/15/08.Hoffschneider, Todd J. to Mid South on 8/07/06.McClure, Daniel K. to Indiana on 3/19/07.McClure, Elizabeth to Indiana on 3/19/07.Meyer, Jennifer to Florida/Georgia on 9/20/06.Pacey Denise L. to Northern Illinois on 6/30/06.Rudzinski, Kathryn A. to Indiana on 8/01/07.Rudzinski, Mark A. to Indiana on 8/01/07.Ryherd, Brian D. to Missouri on 3/15/08.2009 Convention Section B – Reports Page 10

Saeger, David R. to North Wisconsin on 9/10/08.Sandmann, Danny to Indiana District on 7/01/2009.Schnack, Deborah to Michigan on 8/01/06.Schnack, John to Michigan on 8/01/06.Shoumaker, Lisa to Iowa East 2/01/09.Smith, Susan M. to Michigan on 1/16/07.Sochowski, Mark D. to Southern Illinois on 8/01/07.Sprengel, Roger A. to Southern Illinois on 8/01/08.Winkelman, Matthew J. to Northern Illinois on 11/25/07.Winterstein, Alicia to Michigan 2/01/2009COMMISSIONED MINISTERS RESIGNED OR REMOVEDAnderson, Renata J. resigned on 5/01/08.Brown, Tamara L. resigned on 6/01/08.Drews, Melanie resigned on 5/01/07.Escalante (Hecht), Elizabeth resigned on 1/01/09.Gerdes (Seggebruch), Lindsey removed 2/01/09Goddard, Lisa was removed on 5/04/07.Goeres, Rhonda resigned on 3/24/08.Grieve, Krista R. resigned on 8/01/08.Ibe, Lorraine resigned on 6/01/08.Lowell, Charles resigned on 12/15/06.Mingee, Brenda resigned on 4/01/2009.Posey, Elizabeth removed 3/15/2009.Rae, Kristin Kay resigned 5/26/07.Stutzman (Eastin), Noel C. resigned on 7/01/08.Tucker, Nicole M. was removed on 6/03/08.COMMISSIONED MINISTERS CALLED TO GLORYLeinberger (Jud), Carolyn R. 8/08/08Sprehe, Raymond, 10/12/082009 Convention Section B – Reports Page 11

FIRST VICE-PRESIDENT’S REPORT – Rev. Donald PritchardDuring the last triennium, the Board of Directors took up important work on behalf of the saints of the CentralIllinois District. In addition to its regular oversight and management of resources devoted to the work of theKingdom, the board developed and approved policies including "Reduction in Force," "Evaluation of DistrictExecutives," and pledged to bring the practices of the district into consistency with the CID Constitution and Bylawsregarding the position of Business Manager.The board also made necessary decisions regarding district-owned facilities and their improvement, including theacquisition of the John Deere Credit Union building in Moline for use by our Hispanic Mission efforts in theQuad Cities area. Decisions were made regarding facilities needed by our deaf ministry in Jacksonville, withimprovements and new construction soon to be underway.Overall, it can be said that the CID Board of directors has become very proactive over the past three years, andhas made every effort to control costs while keeping the resources of the district office available to the Pastorsand congregations of our district. Ad hoc committees accepted their assignments and completed them faithfullyand prayerfully. District Executive Assistants regularly sought ways of improving their services. PresidentBueltmann and the praesidium worked closely together in the handling of issues and challenges. Office staffproved their work to be invaluable in day-to-day operations.For the past three years, every CID Board of Directors meeting opened with a thoroughly Lutheran devotion byboard Chaplain, The Reverend Mark Miller, in order to set in perspective the work of the day by means of prayer,message, hymn, and brief liturgy.It has been an honor to serve the district as First Vice-president and Chairman. Deep thanks to each and everyboard member for their faithfulness, willingness to accept additional assignments, and commitment to theproclamation of the Gospel in the Central Illinois District by their voluntary sacrifice of time and various gifts.For those who will continue on as members of the board, keep up the good work! I am properly proud of you all!Blessings from on High!Rev. Don Pritchard, 1st VP and ChairmanSECOND VICE-PRESIDENT’S REPORT – Rev. Daniel BishopI was surprised, honored, and humbled to be elected as the Second Vice-President of the District at the 2006convention. The duties of the Vice-Presidents are to advise, assist, or represent the President upon his request.President Bueltmann has been very kind and considerate in keeping his requests reasonable and manageable, sothat this has not been a burdensome office.It has been my privilege this triennium to participate in the meetings of the Praesidium and of the Board ofDirectors, to continue serving on the Evangelism Commission, and to serve in other task force work.I pray that our Lord will continue to bless the congregations and workers of this District by the saving Gospel ofJesus Christ, and to work in them continued faithfulness and diligence in their labors in His kingdom.Respectfully submitted,Pastor Daniel J. Bishop2009 Convention Section B – Reports Page 12

TREASURER’S REPORT – Mr. John RodenburgTreasurer’s Report to 2009 ConventionJuly, 2006 to June, 2009 TrienniumI praise the Lord that this triennium has been relatively uneventful from the Treasurer’s perspective. TheTreasurer is a member of the Finance and Management committee and the Board of Directors. The Treasurer alsochairs the Budget Committee and oversees the bookkeeping and financial functions. Some years we spent morethan we received, and other years received more than we spent. On the balance, CID has maintained a strongfinancial position in the face of no growth. We thank all the Churches for their support.The District’s biggest financial struggles have been in how much support to give declining missions or missionsthat are high cost relative to their outreach. Part of the struggle is due to the high cost of maintaining buildings.One location that we struggled with was Jacksonville deaf. The Lord provided the answer by way of flooddamage. As I am sure is reported elsewhere, the parsonage part of this building should be torn down by now, andplans are underway for an easy to maintain, handicap accessible office and meeting area. We give special thanksto the CID Extension Fund for providing the bulk of the financial support needed to carry out this project.In January 2007, the District outsourced its payroll function to ADP. This has simplified life greatly. At about thesame, the District replaced a full-time secretary with a part time bookkeeper – Kim Randall. We are thankful toher for her good work. Also of note, on December 31, 2006, the District switched to a calendar year for financialreporting. Previously it was a January 15 fiscal year. This switch also greatly simplified reporting andbookkeeping. During the triennium, the District switched from Option A to Option B with Concordia Plans. In thefall of 2008 in a “green” move, the District began distributing monthly financial statements to the board and staffvia email. In the fall of 2008, the District put a new roof on the office building. At the end of 2008, we had all thedistrict buildings appraised for replacement cost purposes. Total replacement cost (not fair market value) is justshy of $12 million. The current budget includes funds to increase the insurance coverage on these properties. Thecost of increased coverage has been offset by a cost decrease in workers compensation due to selecting a newcarrier.You should find a copy of the Districts 2008 audited financial statements elsewhere in this package. If not, pleasecall the District office for a copy. To recap the triennium (in round numbers):12/31/06 12/31/07 12/31/08Cash & CD’s $813,000 $867,000 $926,222Surplus / (Deficit) ($212,600) ($5,000) $43,000I have three areas of concern. The first is the amount of property the District owns and the cost of maintaining it.The second is use of District funds to make staff housing loans. The District needs to work with the CEF if staffmembers need mortgages in the future. Lastly, the scholarship funding level for Synodical students is not what itneeds to be. The District adopted a resolution to fund the Endowment Fund with any unspent scholarship money.This has added about $50,000 to the endowment in the last triennium, but we need to do more. We especiallythank the Clara and Spencer Werner Foundation for their generous support.To quote an old-time board member from my congregation, I’m happy to report that this triennium was “businessas usual.” I’m also very happy to report that the 2009 budget as adopted calls for a deficit of less that $100,000compared to over $200,000 budgeted deficits in prior years. We have been blessed. My term limitation has beenreached, and I’ll be happy to assist the new Treasurer if I’m needed.In his service, John Rodenburg2009 Convention Section B – Reports Page 13

FINANCIAL SECRETARY’S REPORTYear Congregational Pledges Congregational Receipts2008 $2,050,000 $2,156,016 (see note 1)2007 $2,010,000 $1,952,523 (see note 1)2006 $2,088,000 $1,839,440 (see note 2)Note 1… The contributions of the congregations of the Central Illinois District exceeded theanticipated income for the calendar year of 2008. The amount of the increase was $106,016. It shouldbe noted that of this $106,016, an amount of $99,000 came from a single congregation which caught uptheir 2007 contributions in January, 2008. Taking that adjustment out of the equation, contributionswere roughly $6,000 ahead of pledges. In the calendar year of 2007, contributions were less than theprojected budgeted amount of $2,010,000 by $57,477. With the $99,000 adjustment received inJanuary, 2008, there were excess contributions of approximately $42,000 for the calendar year of 2007.Note2... At the District Convention in 2006, a resolution changed the CID from a fiscal year basisending in January to that of a calendar year. As a result, my records report an 11-month year instead ofa true 12-month year. Congregational contributions during this 11-month cycle showed a shortfall forthe budgeted year of about $248,500.In the calendar year of 2008, there were 29 congregations that exceeded their commitments tothe district and only 20 congregations that were unable to meet their commitments. Approximately 100congregations either did not send in budgeted amounts for district pledges (25) or were right on target(75). Of those congregations that were unable to send in the full amount of their pledges, some of themmay have done so in the last week of December and were not received by District until after January 1,2009. This report shows only funds received during the respective years. It makes no attempt toreallocate funds that are received after the beginning of the next year. The budget needs for the districtare based on the commitments of our member congregations. It is important that the CID be advised ofeach congregation’s intentions so that budgets can be properly created.The various congregations of the Central Illinois District do strive to make their commitmentson a regular monthly basis. The Board of Directors wishes to thank the congregations for theircontinuing support of the District. Each congregation has the sacred task of spreading the Gospel ofour Lord and Savior. We at the District level are also actively involved in this proclamation of theGood News of Jesus Christ. The continuing support of the Lord’s work is a must, whether it be on thelocal, district or synodical level.It has been my privilege to serve in this office and on the CID’s Board of Directors these pastthree years. There are always special tasks that need to be accomplished on the Lord’s behalf. There isa continuing need to strengthen and encourage each other in these tasks. We give of our time, talentsand treasure as the Lord has blessed us. Pray for the blessings of our Lord on these special works andworkers that help extend His kingdom through the Central Illinois District.Respectfully submitted,James T Frazee, Financial SecretarySee Section H for Financial Secretary’s Chart (Excel)2009 Convention Section B – Reports Page 14

MISSIONS – EVANGELISM – HUMAN CARE2009 Report from Administrative AssistantI truly appreciate the opportunity to serve our Lord and our Central Illinois Districtcongregations in the areas of missions, evangelism, and human care ministries. It continues tobe very exciting to work with these outreach areas. We continue to have tremendousopportunities and challenges before us. 2,200,000 people live in the 51 counties that make upthe Central Illinois District. Over 50% of these people do not have membership in anyChristian congregation in their area. It would appear the number in need of Christ is great.We have the greatest news that the world has ever heard! “For the wages of sin is death, butthe gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.” There is much work to be done. Wenever know how much time we have. We have the Good News that delivers people from sin,Satan, death, and hell. May God bless our efforts to tell others the Good News about JesusChrist!MISSIONSWe use to live in a churched culture. Most people felt the church was important, and onlymodest efforts were needed to have good attendance at church.In 2009 we live in an unchurched culture. The church is no longer among the major values inmost people’s lives. Most people are not seeking out churches on their own and live as thoughthe church and Christ do not really matter. We have terrific mission opportunities!The focus of my work in the Central Illinois District is working with our missions and helpingour churches in outreach. The 156 congregations of our district share mission dollars with ourdistrict. About 30% of these funds go to our synod and our seminaries. The remainder is usedfor missions and work in our district. My work is to: Oversee and help assist existing missions (5 mission congregations, 2 deafcongregations, 5 prison ministries, ministry to developmentally disabled, 4 campusministries, and ministry to our partner church in Latvia) Explore and encourage the beginning of new mission work Encourage Central Illinois District churches to be missional Assist congregations with mission education Encourage and conduct Sunday Mission Festivals Present special mission presentations and Bible studies to churches and groups Be the “Mission Field Representative” for the Mission Commission, Board ofDirectors, and District President Encourage Central Illinois District congregations to support with prayers and resourcesCentral Illinois District mission work Provide outreach assistance to rural congregations Apply for grants for Central Illinois District Missions Conduct Mission workshops as requested2009 Convention Section B – Reports Page 15

Here is the listing of our Central Illinois District missions supported by the mission dollarsfrom our congregations.Christ the King Lutheran Church (Hispanic), East Moline. This church is telling peopleabout Jesus Christ also in Moline, Rock Island, and Silvis, Illinois (it also reaches into Iowa).There are as many as 30,000 Hispanics in this area. Over 90% of these people are unchurched.Very few of them know that faith in Jesus Christ saves. Pastor Pablo Dominguez has becomewell known in the community and has many opportunities to share God’s Word. That work isbeginning to bear fruit. Three children were recently baptized. Adults are also being reachedfor Christ.Risen Savior Lutheran Church, Buffalo is a mission which is 10 miles east of Springfield.Risen Savior is served by President David Bueltmann and Vicar Wade Turner.Grace Lutheran Church, Canton, is being served by Vicar Ken Serr. Christ’s FamilyLutheran Mission, Mahomet is served part-time by Rev. James Bloch. Our Savior LutheranChurch, St. Joseph (10 miles east of Champaign-Urbana), started in 2006, now numbers 49members. They currently worship in a rented school band room on Sundays. Rev. ScottWeiler serves this mission.Exciting work is being done in our prisons by volunteers and the two district paid prisonpastors (Rev. Chuck Olander and Rev. Stephen Southward). Gains are being made by ourdeaf mission in Jacksonville. Pastor Tom Phillips is sharing Christ with the students from theIllinois School for the Deaf and people in the community. We continue to serve those who aredevelopmentally disabled through a number of Bible studies and outreach efforts with theservice of Deaconess Linda Schaefer.Always a bright spot in our district is our work in campus ministry. Church workers (Rev.Rick Milas, Vicar William Jensen, Rev. Michael Burdick, Rev. Kenneth Hoover, and Directorof Young Adult Ministry Greg Witto) in Champaign, Normal, Macomb and Charleston cantell many stories of young people’s lives changed by God’s Word.In 2008 we looked at the possibility of beginning a new mission in Princeton. A missioncongregation did not begin at that time, but the outreach effort in Princeton did bring 6unchurched adults into area LCMS churches.With all the missions our churches support we should realize that in the last fifteen yearseleven mission congregations have became self-supporting (Friendship Champaign, GoodShepherd Bloomington, Ascension East Peoria, Flora, Lexington, Mt. Zion, Newton,Robinson, Casey, Eureka, and Colona).Our district is blessed to support a foreign mission, The Evangelical Lutheran Church ofLatvia. Our brothers and sisters in Christ at this partner church are benefiting from thegenerous support of our congregations. A number of our churches are matched with churchesand pastors in Latvia. Our people are learning about the trials and joys of a church emergingfrom communism.2009 Convention Section B – Reports Page 16

We have many areas in our Central Illinois District where we need more churches andoutreach efforts. We still have sizeable towns without a single Missouri Synod congregation.We have growing opportunities to serve Hispanics, Blacks, Asians, and Somalians. We havemany more state prisons in our Central Illinois District than we have volunteers or paidworkers to share the Good News of Jesus Christ. We have a large number of hearingimpaired, blind, and developmentally disabled people in our district. More than ninety percentof these people are unchurched! Eighty percent of college students are not attending church!We have nursing homes where many aged people, who will soon depart this life, do not knowChrist as their Savior from sin! Yes, God has placed many opened doors before us. Ourprayers and financial support are needed to continue these important ministries and to opennew doors for the work of the Lord!EVANGELISMAbout half of all churches in the LCMS and the Central Illinois District confirm 0 or 1 adult ayear. We do not want to play a numbers game, but that statistic makes us wonder if we aredoing all we can to share the Good News of Jesus Christ with those who do not know him.I am here to assist our churches in evangelism. My work is to: Assist churches in planing effective outreach Meet with pastors and evangelism committees to share ideas, resources andencouragement Be the “Evangelism Field Representative” for the Evangelism Commission, Board ofDirectors, and District President Conduct Sunday Evangelism Festivals and Evangelism Presentations Be the presenter for Outreach WorkshopsFriendship Witnessing WorkshopsCanvassing WorkshopsAttracting Guests and Getting Them to Return WorkshopsDeveloping and Keeping Prospects Workshops Assist the pastor and board of elders by providing training and workshops to win backour inactive members Assist congregations with demographic information and interpretation Visit all pastors and congregations in the District assisting them in outreach activitiesNew this year is a revitalization process for churches in our Central Illinois District.This revitalization process helps a congregation with a biblical, Lutheran approach to lookclosely at the mission field around their congregation.The process begins with the congregational self-study, looking over past years of its ministry.Upon completion of the self-study, a consultation weekend is scheduled.2009 Convention Section B – Reports Page 17

The weekend consists of the team arriving on-site and interviewing the pastor, staff andleaders of the congregation on Friday during the day. A large focus group meets on Fridaynight. Saturday consists of teaching and instructing from God’s Word on the work of thechurch for pastor and leaders.On Sunday, (after church) a presentation of the consultation team’s report to the congregationis given. The report lists strengths about the congregation, areas of improvement, and detailedprescriptions as to how to move forward in focusing on areas of needed improvement.A congregation has 45 days from the presentation of the report to decide if it wants to continuein the process. If the church decides to continue, a partnership is made with the missionexecutive, who will either supply the congregation with a coach or continue to coach ithimself. Thus, on a monthly basis, both the pastor and the congregation leaders will beencouraged and helped to put into practice the detailed prescriptions,This approach to (Central Illinois District-style) revitalization honors the pastoral office andenables the pastor and congregation members to move forward together in serving Christ intheir community and throughout the world. With God’s help we want to continue to tell othersthe Good News about Jesus Christ.HUMAN CARE MINISTRIESWith our Human Care Committee I seek to provide information and education that willencourage Lutherans to care for those in need. My work in Human Care includes: Meeting with our Central Illinois District Human Care Committee Cultivating concern for human care and encourage endeavors to remove and alleviatehuman suffering (Hunger, Pornography, Abuse, Aids, Refugees, Substance Abuse, etc) Working with Lutheran Child & Family Services (we have had training meetings andworkshops between pastors and counselors) Assisting with a yearly workshop for developmentally disabled workers (at FaithLutheran Church, Lincoln, each March) Encouraging Central Illinois District congregations to respond with help to naturaldisasters in our district (floods, tornadoes, etc.) Leading the Central Illinois District efforts which raised over $90,000 from CentralIllinois District congregations to help our two sister LCMS churches in Gulfport,Mississippi (Hurricane Katrina) Encouraging Central Illinois District congregations in the use of a parish nurse Offering pro-life support Encouraging support for Lutheran Church Missouri Synod – World Relief Being the resource person for congregation Human Care Committees2009 Convention Section B – Reports Page 18

CONCLUSIONMuch work still needs to be done for the Lord “while it is day, for the night comes when noman can work.” Let us remember that He promises that His Word “will not return void butwill accomplish the purpose for which He sends it.” In all that we do for Him, He reminds us,“Lo, I am with you always even unto the end of the age.” May the Lord continue to give Hischurch and His people the strength and the faithfulness to preach and teach His holy, inspiredWord so we can tell others that He died and rose for all. May we always remember, “He diedfor all, that those who live, should not live for themselves, but for Him who died for them androse again!”God’s richest blessings to you!Rev. Joel Cluver, Administrative Assistant to the President forMissions, Evangelism, and Human Care2009 Convention Section B – Reports Page 19

Your Congregation’s Mission Dollars At Work2009 Central Illinois District MissionsThank You For Supporting These Important Outreach EffortsMission Station/CongregationsChrist the King Lutheran Church, East Moline (Hispanic)Rev. Pablo Dominguez is sharing Christ in many ways in the Quad Cities area.More than ninety percent of the Hispanic people in the area are unchurched. WeeklyBible studies, worship service, English as second language classes, computer classes,children’s programs, etc. share Christ with many people.Risen Savior Lutheran Church, BuffaloThis mission church is between Springfield and Decatur. The congregation isserved by President David Bueltmann and a Vicar.Christ’s Family Lutheran Church, MahometThis is a bedroom community 10 miles west of Champaign. They are served parttimeby Rev. James Bloch.Our Savior Lutheran Church, St. JosephThe Lord is blessing the work of the Rev. Scott Weiler as families are being reachedfor Christ.Grace Lutheran Church, CantonThis mission congregation is being served by Vicar Ken Serr. This is the onlyLCMS church in Fulton County (Population, 38,000).Special MissionsChrist Lutheran Church of the Deaf, JacksonvilleJoy of Jesus Lutheran Church, PeoriaChrist, Jacksonville has regular worship, Bible study and outreach to area people.They also have a Wednesday afternoon Bible study for students at Illinois Schoolfor the Deaf, Jacksonville. Bible study, worship service and outreach activities arealso shared through the Peoria church. Pastor Tom Phillips, the pastor of bothchurches, also has Bible studies and outreach to people in Decatur, Bloomington,Quincy, and other areasof our District.2009 Convention Section B – Reports Page 20

Prison WorkLincoln Correctional CenterLogan Correctional Center, LincolnPittsfield Correctional CenterWestern Correctional Center, Mt. SterlingGreen County Work Camp, RoodhouseThe district has a number of people from our congregations who provide volunteer jail and prison ministry. Two pastors, theRev. Charles Olander and the Rev. Stephen Southward, are employed by the district part-time to conduct prison ministry at theprisons listed above.Special MissionsDevelopmental Disabled Ministry, LincolnDeaconess Linda Schaefer has special abilities to work with the Developmentally Disabled. Deaconess Schaefer serves thedevelopmentally disabled in Lincoln, Atlanta, Jacksonville and elsewhere telling them of the love of the Lord Jesus Christ.Campus WorkUniversity of IllinoisEastern Illinois UniversityIllinois State UniversityWestern Illinois UniversityAll universities and colleges in our Central Illinois District have a volunteer contact campus pastor from a nearbyLCMS congregation.Four state universities have a special facility and a full-time campus ministry for our students and others.These campus ministries provide important spiritual care at a very important time in the life of our young people. Ministry tostudents is provided by Rev. Rich Milas (U of I); Rev. Ken Hoover and Director of Young Adult Ministry, Greg Witto (EIU);Vicar William Jensen (ISU); Rev. Michael Burdick (WIU).Foreign MissionLatviaIn 2005 we began to support our partner church, the Evangelical Lutheran Church of Latvia.After the iron curtain fell in the late 1980’s, Latvia gained her independence from communist Russia in the early 1990’s. Fiftyyears of Soviet rule had almost wiped out the Lutheran Church. Before the communist takeover the majority of the people ofLatvia were Lutherans. During the Russian rule 80% of all Lutheran pastors did not survive. With the coming of freedom inthe 1990’s, the church had few members, few pastors, no seminary, and they were given back 300 church buildings, all inneed of much repair.By the grace of God the “new” church in Latvia numbers 40,000 people and they have a seminary training new pastors. Theyare a church faithful to the Word of God and have a great desire to spread the Good of Jesus Christ to others. Our partnershipwith them will give us a special way to support the Word and Sacrament ministry of the Latvia Lutheran churches.2009 Convention Section B – Reports Page 21

INVESTMENT OF CENTRAL ILLINOIS DISTRICT MISSION DOLLARS(SUBSIDY)2007 2008 2009(Budget)Mission Stations/CongregationsBuffalo, Risen Savior Lutheran 24,984 25,643 26,640Mahomet, Christ’s Family Lutheran 2,000 2,325 2,400East Moline, Christ the King Lutheran (Hispanic) 78,065 93,850 83,000St. Joseph, Our Savior Lutheran 57,345 50,560 46,500Canton, Grace Lutheran 45,000 25,000 25,000Princeton, Mission Outreach 1,143 1,487 0Campus MinistriesChampaign, U. of I. 113,718 113,384 118,600Charleston, E.I.U. 52,000 55,000 57,000Macomb, W.I.U. 100,180 84,200 80,900Normal, I.S.U. 122,928 92,018 96,300Deaf MinistriesJacksonville, Christ & Peoria, Joy of Jesus 98,724 102,756 111,500Prison MinistriesLincoln & Logan Correctional Centers 15,131 18,439 19,250Mt. Sterling Correctional CenterPittsfield Work campGreen County Work camp 37,140 39,038 41,000Special MinistriesDevelopmentally Disabled Ministry 33,000 35,000 40,000Foreign MissionsEvangelical Lutheran Church of Latvia 20,000 52,500 40,000Extra Gifts From CID Members & Churches 66,891 145,817plus extra giftsNote:1. No indebtedness among any missions receiving mission dollars from the district2. In 2008 the CID bought and paid ($150,000 plus closing costs) for the John Deere/Deere Harvestor Credit Union,East Moline, as the new church for Christ the King Lutheran Church, East Moline. An additional $30,000 is beingspent on remodeling and improvements.3. During the spring and summer of 2009 the parsonage at Christ Lutheran Church of the Deaf, Jacksonville will bedemolished. A 1,300 square foot Outreach Center will be built in its place for a total demolition and building cost of$150,000.2009 Convention Section B – Reports Page 22

SHOULD WE START A MISSION?Not enough churches ask this question. They see other churches in the area, they know theyare not growing, and they presume that most unchurched folks are determined to stay that way.They do not see the necessary dollars and energies within their congregations to do anythingabout starting a mission anyway! Some say, “There’s a greater need in other countries thanhere!”Should we start a mission? Perhaps we should be asking this question for these reasons:1. The unchurched population in the United States is over 150 million people. There areonly two nations in the world with an unchurched population greater than that (Chinaand India). We have a mission field at our doorstep that is being added to daily.I Peter 3:15...... and always be ready to give a defense to everyone who asks you a reason for thehope that is in you, with meekness and fear;2. Most areas of the Central Illinois District average 50% of the people being unchurched.Even though they try, existing churches have not been able to reach these people.Matthew 9:36-3836 When he saw the crowds, he had compassion on them, because they were harassedand helpless, like sheep without a shepherd. 37 Then he said to his disciples, "Theharvest is plentiful but the workers are few. 38 Ask the Lord of the harvest, therefore, tosend out workers into his harvest field."3. It is a proven fact that missions attract people who have previously left another churchor were never churched in the first place. It is easier for them to become part of a newbeginning than to go back to where they once belonged or to join a congregation wherenewcomers are in the strict minority.There are basically two ways to reach people for Christ: through existing churches andthrough new churches. (Of course, it is all up to God working through His word andsacraments.)Luke 19:1010 for the Son of Man has come to seek and to save that which was lost.4. Gallup surveys reveal that 51% of America’s unchurched people envision joining achurch some day. Jesus said so long ago,Isaiah 55:1111 so is my word that goes out from my mouth: It will not return to me empty, but willaccomplish what I desire and achieve the purpose for which I sent it.2009 Convention Section B – Reports Page 23

5. The warm and caring fellowship of smaller mission congregations can be attractive tothe unchurched, whereas much larger established churches may seem formidable to theoutsider.6. Your congregation or group of congregations is close to the local scene. You haveaccess to data and people that are invaluable in starting a new mission.7. Churches do not want to plant mission churches for fear of losing their members.Experience shows that when a congregation or group of congregations gets involved inplanting a mission God replaces the members it may “give up” to the mission. Moreimportantly, its level of spiritual awareness and enthusiasm for mission reaches newheights.Luke 6:3838 Give, and it will be given to you. A good measure, pressed down, shaken together andrunning over, will be poured into your lap. For with the measure you use, it will bemeasured to you.8. In some cases, bigger may be better. Large congregations with excellent staff,programs, and facilities can offer much. In other cases, larger churches generally havea lower percentage of their members participating in worship and activities. They mayfind it difficult to create a close bond among members and find many who complain ofbeing unheard and left out. They may see their number of inactives growing.Many congregations are in a decline or plateau pattern. They need either to plan andstructure for growth or start a new church.9. In some cases, congregations consider relocation, leaving behind a community that stillneeds to be served. Who will serve them if you leave? Why not stay where you areand plant a new church in the proposed new area?10. To set out in a new direction we need people of vision. God blesses his people withvision and strength when they attempt great things for Him. Planting a new missionwill attract and develop new leaders in both churches. God does not put a challengebefore us without giving us the resources to meet it.Matthew 2819 Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of theFather and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, 20 and teaching them to obey everything Ihave commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.11. New missions attract people who may be hard for established churches to win.Planting new churches is an effective and cost efficient method of evangelism.12. New missions tend to be evangelism minded.2009 Convention Section B – Reports Page 24

13. Church planting is essential for passing on the faith to future generations.This is exactly what happened in the book of Acts.Isaiah 43:1010 “You are My witnesses,” says the LORD,14. The increased number of sects requires a greater effort to communicate the Gospel topeople besieged by the “other gospels”. Are other churches faithfully proclaimingGod’s Word?John 4:35Behold, I say to you, lift up your eyes and look at the fields, for they are already whitefor harvest!15. In general, new churches tend to reach a higher percentage of unchurched people. Ingeneral, older churches tend to reach a larger percentage of transfer members.16. New church planting is an effective way to reach new generations and to help keep thefocus of the church on mission verses maintenance.17. New church planting brings new life back into established churches and givesChristians great joy and a sense of purpose.18. Starting a new mission is always all for the glory of God and extending Christ’sKingdom! (All through the means of grace – Word and Sacrament)2009 Convention Section B – Reports Page 25

CONCLUSIONA congregation needs to see that there are lost people around them and ask themselves howcan they reach them. If that means planting a new church, then we pray for God’s blessings onthe endeavor.A roadblock to starting a new church may be protecting our own turf. We may be fearful ofhaving another sister church in our community. Instead, let us have a passion for the lost! Letus recognize that there may be many lost people in our community who need to be won toJesus Christ our Savior!Unchurched people will try something new. It is difficult for unchurched people to startcoming to an established church where groups, cliques, and activities are established. Mostpeople find it hard to break into an established group.Christianity has always grown through the adding of churches. The book of Acts records howthe churches were added. To this day, throughout every generation, Christianity growsthrough the birth of new churches. There is power in the Gospel, and a new church can be awonderful blessing from God. You and I are Christians today because those who preceded usfaithfully added churches.Romans 10:14 & 1514 How, then, can they call on the one they have not believed in? And how can they believe inthe one of whom they have not heard? And how can they hear without someone preaching tothem? 15 And how can they preach unless they are sent? As it is written, "How beautiful are thefeet of those who bring good news!"2009 Convention Section B – Reports Page 26

MR. GLENN W. GOERESADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT TO THE PRESIDENT – EDUCATIONChristian education is a serious undertaking in the Central Illinois District. Certainly, most ofour congregations operate various volunteer education programs including Sunday School,VBS, midweek schools, confirmation instruction, Bible classes for various ages, and the like.In addition to these, fifty-four congregations are involved in the operation of twenty-four fulltimeelementary schools and three high schools. Finally, another twenty-nine congregationsare operating early childhood programs – preschools and child care centers – are operated byCID congregations. Sharing Christ with the children is and should be a high priority.STATISTICSSome general statistics of interest include:2006 2009Schools: Early Childhood Centers (E.C.C.) 33 30Elementary + E.C.C. 19 20Elementary Only 4 3Elementary + High School 1 1High School 2 2Total Educational Agencies 59 56Enrollment: Early Childhood Centers 1510 1328Elementary 4187 3514High School 344 357Total Children Served 6041 5199The following pages provide more specific statistics for education programs. The statistics arepresented in two categories – 1) Early Childhood Programs and 2) Elementary and HighSchools.In addition to enrollment numbers, statistics will provide information related to: Percentage of LCMS rostered teachers and lay teachers. Financial support information. Outreach Benefits: the number of children and adults that entered the LCMSthrough baptism and or confirmation as a result of first coming into contactwith the congregation through enrollment in a Lutheran education program.2009 Convention Section B – Reports Page 27

C.I.D. SCHOOL STATISTICSEARLY CHILDHOOD PROGRAMSEarly Childhood Programs: 30Note: these statistics are not totally valid due to the fact that 6 (23%) of the EarlyChildhood programs did not submit an annual report.Number of early childhood teachers on the roster ofLCMS certified teachers.LCMS Trained Lay are those teachers who have Concordiasystem degrees but are not on roster.LCMS=3 Lay=136 LCMS trained Lay=3Number of Students Enrolled721 (Schools Reporting)1328 when estimates of non-reporting schools are included.Financial Support for SchoolThe financial support is divided into three categories:Congregational SupportTuition and Fees3 rd Source Funding (gifts, fund drives, bequests, endowment funds, etc.)The range of each category: High------------LowCongregational Support 80% 0%Tuition/Fees 100% 20%3 rd Source Funding 25% 0%2009 Convention Section B – Reports Page 28

Elementary Schools 23Elementary + High School 1High Schools 2C.I.D. SCHOOL STATISTICSELEMENTARY AND HIGH SCHOOLSNumber of school teachers on the roster of LCMS certified teachers.LCMS Trained Lay are those teachers who have Concordia system degrees but are not onroster, mostly due to IRS tax penalties for both spouses serving as commissioned ministers.Elementary and High SchoolLCMS=145 Lay=144 Lay are LCMS trained= 41Early Childhood Teachers in ECC programsconnected with Elementary SchoolsLCMS= 4 Lay=46 Lay is LCMS trained=1Membership of Students EnrolledThese numbers reflect students enrolled in grades K-8 (reporting schools).Total of eligible congregation member children: 3768Eligible members that do enroll: 1970 (52.3% avg. of eligible)When comparing the number of congregation children eligible to enroll with those whoactually enroll in the school, the range runs from a low of 29% to a high of 90%.∑ Non-Lutherans account for 44% of students enrolled in elem/high schools… 1716∑ One-fourth of non-Lutheran students are unchurched…approx. 425Students enrolled in early childhood programs operatedas part of an elementary school: 8242009 Convention Section B – Reports Page 29

Elementary and High School Statistics, continuedFinancial Support for SchoolThe financial support is divided into three categories:Congregational SupportTuition and Fees3 rd Source Funding (gifts, fund drives, bequests, endowment funds, etc.)The range of each category: High------------LowCongregational Support 97% 10%Tuition/Fees 79% 3%3 rd Source Funding 58% 0%OutreachNew Members of CID - LCMS Congregations through Lutheran School Enrollment(Since 2006 convention) Baptized Children: 177(Since 2006 convention) Baptized/Confirmed Adults: 307Gains and LossesNew schools added to CID rolls since 2006Immanuel Lutheran Preschool, MacombSt. Paul Lutheran School, Milford (Woodworth)Schools closed since 2006St. John Rainbow Preschool, DecaturHoly Cross Child Care Center, Peoria (left the LCMS)Early Childhood Consultant TeamThe early childhood programs throughout our district are now being served by a team ofregionally based early childhood consultants, the CID Early Childhood Consultant Team(ECCTeam). The Central Illinois District has been divided into three regions roughly by anorth-to-south set of dividing lines, and three early childhood educators have consented toserve as regional consultants.Chanda Hensen, Mt. Calvary – Galesburg is the consultant for Region #1 (western region).Kay Durkee, St. Paul – Decatur is the consultant for Region #2 (central region).Carol Niemann, St. John – Champaign is the consultant for Region #3 (eastern region).These three educators serve as resources conduits between the district education office and theearly childhood programs in their regions. In addition, they facilitate sharing opportunities2009 Convention Section B – Reports Page 30

among the program directors in their regions as well as provide guidance as needed byprograms, teachers, or boards of education. The ECCTeam will present a summer trainingprogram for early childhood educators throughout our district in implementing programimprovement through tools of the National Lutheran School Accreditation process.Teacher Colloquy ProgramMany educators in our schools have become synodically trained, professional church workersthrough the Lutheran Teacher Colloquy Program. This program, offered via CUEnet –colloquy classes provided online, provides the theology coursework component normallyreceived by education graduates of the Concordia schools. Participants must have a BAdegree, be members of LCMS congregations, and be currently teaching in an LCMS school.Our District provides some financial assistance to teachers enrolling in this colloquy program.Teachers who have participated in colloquy classes speak very highly of the instruction theyreceived and the benefits it brought to their classroom teaching.In the last three years five teachers in CID have completed the colloquy program and are nowrecognized as Ministers of Religion - Commissioned.National Lutheran School AccreditationNational Lutheran School Accreditation is an ongoing process of self-evaluation,improvement, and recognition based on national standards for child care centers, earlychildhood, elementary, and secondary schools. Twelve schools in CID are currentlyaccredited by this process of school improvement and one school – St. John, Buckley – is inthe self study process.Altamont InterparishTrinity, BloomingtonDanville LutheranLSA, DecaturZion, LincolnSt. John, MattoonBethel, MortonConcordia, PeoriaSt. James, QuincyOur Savior’s, SpringfieldTrinity, SpringfieldLutheran High School, SpringfieldOur NLSA process has been identified as far more thorough than the recognition process usedin Illinois, and the Illinois State Board of Education (ISBE) now accepts the NLSAaccreditation process as a tool through which a school can also become recognized by theISBE. In addition, the regional program North Central Accreditation (also known asAdvanceED) also accepts the NLSA process should a school also desire regional accreditation.Lutheran Educator ConferencesIn the fall of 2006 both the CID and SID teachers continued the new triennial plan for officialconferences as they met in joint conference in Decatur, IL. In the spring of the 2007-2008school year our teachers participated in the LEA national convocation in Minneapolis, MN.CID and SID then met in a joint conferences in the fall of 2008 (Springfield, IL) with anotherjoint conference scheduled for October 2009 (O’Fallon, IL). These joint conferences have2009 Convention Section B – Reports Page 31

proven to provide a wider base of support and participation that enhanced the quality andvariety of the conference experiences for the participants.Directors of Christian Education (DCE)The Administrative Assistant – Education oversees the personnel issues of the DCE’s of ourdistrict. At present, almost thirty DCE’s serve in CID congregations. In addition to these, twoto three DCE interns have been assigned each year to congregations in the district. TheDCE’s serve in a wide variety of ministry roles including youth and family ministries.Congregations are continuing to expand the scope of ministry provided by these churchworkers. Additional titles have surfaced to describe the variety of ministries offered by theseprofessional church workers: Director of Outreach and Director of Family Ministry are justtwo examples. Family Ministry is growing in popularity as congregations seek to address thelifelong spiritual needs of members. CID congregations also benefit from the service of sevenother church workers serving in specialized ministries: camp ministry, parish nurse, andcampus ministry just to name a few.Our DCE’s participate in joint conferences with the DCE’s of the Northern Illinois District.Such participation provides a wonderful benefit for our district workers by being able tointeract with a larger number of co-workers in our neighboring district to the north.Parish EducationThe Parish Education Committee of our district concentrates on providing guidance to thecongregational education ministries of such agencies as Sunday School, Vacation BibleSchool, and midweek school. The Parish Education Committee sponsors events such astraining workshops for Sunday School teachers and superintendents as well as assisting withthe District Bible Bowl. The Parish Education Committee also sponsors an annual recognitionof the Volunteer Teacher of the Year. Recent volunteer teachers recognized for this awardhave been:2007 Roberta Weinand, Immanuel, Springfield2008 Martha Schultz, Good Shepherd, Hoopeston2009 Sheila Magerkurth and Wanda Rahn, St. John, GeneseoChristian education must continue to serve as a major tool by which our congregations activelyprepare for future generations of Lutheran believers, professional church workers, andcongregation members. We ask that our Lord fill all our congregations and their memberswith the zeal to support these ministries through their prayers, their time, their talents, andtheir treasures. May the Holy Spirit continually guide us through this work of kingdombuilding.Respectfully submitted,Glenn W. GoeresAdministrative Assistant - Education2009 Convention Section B – Reports Page 32

Congregational Life and StewardshipAdministrative Assistant***********************************************************************What a privilege it is to serve my Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, by serving the congregationsand church workers of the Central Illinois District.StewardshipThe Stewardship commission continues to speak with congregations and pastors about theresources, gifts, and talents our Lord Jesus Christ has given to us for the use within HisKingdom among us at home, in the district, the synod, and the world.Stewardship is a Sanctification driven process. We speak from our theology that Stewardshipis freely giving and a part of the Christian’s good works that flows from our Justification inChrist Jesus, our Lord.The commission continues to develop the compensation guidelines, develop workshops, andvisitation to congregations.Congregational LifeThe Congregational Life Commissions continues among the resources are Congregationalplanning, Youth resources, Congregational resources, Leadership training, and Church leadersretreats to use and develop in God’s Kingdom among us at home, in the district, the synod, andthe world.Among the activities in the district, I was privileged to work on with congregations, pastors,teachers, DCEs, and the commissions of Stewardship and Congregational Life:∑ Latvian/CID Guidelines for joint mission work.∑ With Communication Committee helped redesign our website.∑ Student AID Policy- write a coordinated policy.∑ Coordinate with Mt. Calvary Lutheran Church, Peoria, and Our Savior’s LutheranChurch, Springfield to provide laptop computers for Latvian pastors.∑ Christ Centered Vision/Planning to our congregations in the District.∑ Stewardship projects with congregations in our District.∑ Leadership seminars developed with Congregational Life Commission and DistrictStaff to provide resources on serving and leading in the local congregations.∑ Law gospel seminar in 2008 with KFUO Speaker, Rev. Tom Baker, with more tofollow in 2009 and 2010 from the Congregational Life Commission.∑ Jr. High Lockins.2009 Convention Section B – Reports Page 33

∑ 12 months of Stewardship materials resources by Ron Chewning- Bulletinannouncements, Newsletters, bible studies, and other material.These are a few of the items our District Commissions and I have been involved in the lastthree years. As we look to the future, a short visit to the past is important! In the 1990’s theNational Synod changed the boards of various parts of structure and placed many of thosedepartments into District Congregational Services. One in particular was Stewardship.The national Stewardship department was reduced from staff of many down two full-timeexecutives and today down to one full-time executive. The rest were moved into LCMSFoundation and fund-raising. Today, the trend is movement towards Lutheran ChurchExtension Fund (LCEF), another fund-raising and savings organization. They have anexcellent Christian Fund Raising program called ‘Consecrated Steward.’ However, no districtin the LCMS has a full-time Stewardship executive. The responsibilities are shared with manyother duties.Added to this mix are our seminaries in the education of our pastors in various areas ofstewardship, evangelism, and congregational similar activities. At the 2008 Upper MidwestDistrict Stewardship Conference, a short study was done that showed for many yearsStewardship is not taught as course or significant time or module spent at the seminary on thetopic (not that they need 4 years of it, but at the present none is being done.)Why is this important? A look back in the 1980’s and 90’s Journals and Quarterlies of our twoseminaries show parish pastors in the sermon outlines of those publications developedtechniques and/or sections of their sermons speak about stewardship of time, talents, treasures,and witness. When it was taught at some point in the seminarian’s education, it became a partof the pastor’s early formation life. It show up not at all or less frequent today in readings andsermons.Next, around 2000 it was stated in a previous report: “National Studies show that about 2.6%of a Christian family’s income is given as an offering to the local church.” In 2007, studieshave shown that the levels continue to drop and have gone below 2.0%. A recent informalstudy by Lutheran Church Extension Fund showed an average of 2.5% of LCMS FamilyHousehold’s income is given to their local church. The need to educate church workers andlaity in the area of giving continues. Especially, our work should always be done completelyin the atmosphere of God’s Word and Sacraments. This work is critical considering the largerneed of mission work to the unchurched in our district and synod.Again, Stewardship is sanctified—holy living—good works area of our lives in time, talent,and treasures. The following tables and other information are taken from national stewardshipstudies and LCMS studies on congregations:2009 Convention Section B – Reports Page 34

Table 1 Average Percentage (%) of Household Income given to the churchNational StudiesLCMS2007 2000 2007 1997% of household income 2.00% 2.60% 2.50% 3.70%Notes:LCMS is part of the national studies2007 LCMS: LCEF Informal Sources1997 LCMS: Independent source1997 National Figures estimates at 2.9% to 3.3%The significance is that about $12,000 on a $100,000 budget is lost in the lower givingpercentages and over $78,000 on a $750,000 budget. While more dollars come into thecongregations the per cent of giving continues to drop.Table 2 how $100.00 of offerings is spent in a congregation.CID 2000 2006 2007Home 91.30 92.16 92.50Work at large 8.70 7.84 7.50Total 100.00 100.00 100.00Source: Lutheran Annual 2009The overall synod is a little higher, but the last few years have seen greater significant drops.Table 3 CID Mission Giving REDUCTION to District/Synod.Compared to 2000.CID from 2000 2006 2007Mission giving -9.89% -13.79%Source: Lutheran AnnualTable 4 National LCMS Mission Giving REDUCTION to District/SynodCompared to 2000.LCMS from 2000 2006 2007Mission giving -9.17% -15.68%Source: Lutheran Annual2009 Convention Section B – Reports Page 35

Since 2000 mission funds sent to district and synod from congregations has reduced from13.79% to 15.68%.The reasons generally offered:∑ TIM (Together in Missions) in the 1990’s. Congregations supporting a particularforeign mission or missionary. Funds sent directly to LCMS Missions.∑ Current LCMS Foreign Missions- Missionaries raise their support from congregationsfor activity for their financial support.∑ Higher cost of running a congregation.∑ The shrinking pool of givers (National Study showed that across the U.S.A there is ashrinking pool on 10% or more givers of their income.)Last Study to present was recently sent to all the districts of National LCMS Synod. Thesestatistics are from LCMS Headquarters for Synod and the individual district from 1971 to2006 (25 year period). The study shows the decline has been more that just recent years.1. Membership Changes1971- 2006 (25years) LCMS CIDBaptized -16.26% -0.64%Communicants -7.96% 5.77%2. Sunday School Enrollment1971- 2006 (25years) LCMS CIDSunday School -43.33% -39.68%3. Worship attendancea. This one is a little harder to quantify from their (LCMS) studies as it shows adecline in worships attendance in National Synod and CID. The study doesn’tshow how this relates to the average size of a congregation.b. Other national studies have shown a deep drop in worship attendance from the 40%level into the teens and 20% level. (In relation to membership size.)i. LCMS appears to have dropped from 40% into low 30%.ii. CID appears to have dropped from 48% average to about 39%.c. These are averages and there are some growing churches in word/sacramentministry.Thus, in general way what are the statistics telling us without point fingers at any one.∑ General membership overall is down in the last 25 years.∑ Sunday School Enrollment is significantly down. Often cited is smaller families withkids, but also few Adults attending. Also broken or blend families as a result ofdivorce and remarriage often a problem to where the child attends or not.∑ Worship attendance is down. (While many sight reasons such as: “snow-birds aresouth in winter;” or “society is mobile and fluid;” studies show all worship is down.)Also cited is the lack of denominational loyalty.2009 Convention Section B – Reports Page 36

∑ Gutting of National Stewardship department into fund-raising activities.∑ All districts shared the Stewardship duties with a variety of other responsibilitiesbecause of reduced revenues while trying maintain high mission spending. (Same forall district responsibilities.)∑ Church conflict: Often sited are from National to district to congregational.∑ No real seminary education in the last 5 to 10 years in stewardship, evangelism, andother similar areas.∑ Sending “money directly.” TIM (Together in Missions) and Current LCMSMissionary raise your funds programs has seen reductions in sending missions dollarsto district to send to synod.∑ Higher costs of running the local congregations.∑ Nationally shrinking pool of 10% plus givers in local congregations.∑ Our U.S. society continues to remind 50% unchurched and higher in the world.Our vision is to reach out with the Good News of Jesus Christ. That is what makes all thedifference for us and all we come into contact. Again Stewardship is a sanctified—HolyLiving (Good Works) in response to the Good News of Christ. Let our directions for thefuture be “Back to the Basics:”∑ Revitalize our Sunday Schools∑ Increase our Worship attendance. (bring back the inactives of our congregations.)∑ Seeking the lost.∑ Provide resources to our families.∑ Providing Christ-centered vision and planning to reach out.∑ Increase our stewardship education and training.∑ Continue to train our church leaders and workers in Christian leadership skills, andvarious areas of the congregations ministries.May God continue to use us, our people, and our churches to “Tell the Good News aboutJesus.In Christ,Rev. Wesley Reimnitz2009 Convention Section B – Reports Page 37

Report to the 55 th Regular ConventionCentral Illinois DistrictGift Planning CounselorThe work of the Gift Planning Counselor is work that will be quite valuable to thefunding of the church in the future. As time goes on, testamentary gifts (gifts made at deaththrough our estates) will become more and more critical. Gift planning is a job which I shareon a 25% basis with that of Executive Director of the Central Illinois district Church ExtensionFund. I enjoy both positions and it is a privilege to serve the District in both capacities.During the past triennium, gifts have been completed totaling nearly $16,500,000.00.In each individual case, the donor’s congregation is remembered for a portion of the gift. Alsoremembered were various ministries of the LCMS in St. Louis, as well as other ministries inthe CID including various schools, Camp CILCA.These gifts usually begin with a presentation by me in the congregation, followed byprivate, confidential work with the individual donor family in their home. It can be a long andtedious process, but we take whatever time is necessary for the donor to be comfortable withthe fact that he or she has made the best possible gift to the work of the Lord. There are nocommission paid for this work, it is a service of the Central Illinois District. It is a service thatis grossly underutilized.It has been said that the Lord has placed a special “ultimate” gift on the heart of allbelievers. It is the work of the Gift Planning Counselor to assist the donor in realizing whatthat gift is and finding a way to make it happen.This work is quite rewarding for me as well as for the donor. There is much more to bedone and I see many more generous gifts in the future from the members of the Central IllinoisDistrict.Respectfully Submitted,David H. Rohe, Gift Planning Counselor2009 Convention Section B – Reports Page 38

CIRCUIT COUNSELOR REPORTSBloomington North Circuit – Rev. Bruce Scarbeary, Circuit CounselorBy God’s grace, as of this writing, the Bloomington North Circuit has no vacancies in the pastoral office. For thiswe are thankful to the Lord.During the last these years we said fond farewells to Rev. Michael Kolesar (St. John Secor, IL), who accepted acall in March of 08 March 30 to St. James – Victor. IowaThankfully, the Lord heard the prayers of His people and sent a new worker into the harvest field. On June 29,2008 Candidate Scott Adel (Ft. Wayne) was ordained into the Office of the Holy Ministry and installed St. JohnSecor. On February 1, 2008 Trinity – Roanoke, IL., also welcomed and installed The Rev. Ronald Wagner aworker priest/assistant pastor.On Thursday October 6, 2007 our circuit held a meeting in Princeton, Illinois to discuss the possibility of openingLCMS Mission congregation in the city of Princeton. The request for a mission congregation in this area cameabout through some personal contacts both at the District level and Pastor Peter Glock of Zion - Wenoa, Illinoisand St. Paul Varna, Illinois.. There were about 12 family groups in attendance. The Pastor’s represented at thismeeting were Rev. Peter Glock, Rev. Bruce Scarbeary, Rev. Bryan Hopfensperger, Rev. Michael Kolesar, Rev.Pres. David Bueltmann, Rev. Joel Cluver, and Rev. David Menet of NID (Walnut, IL).Soon after this initial meeting Rev. David Menet of NID began hosting a catechetical class for all the familiesinterested in starting a mission in Princeton. After about a years time, many hours of meetings, Bible Studies andcatechetical classes it was decided that that starting a mission in Princeton was not feasible at this time. Thus thisjoint project of the CID and NID came to a close in April of 2008.During this last triennium, the Bloomington North Circuit of the Central Illinois District continued hostingspeakers as part of their study group entitled - The Lutheran Catechetical Society of the Bloomington NorthCircuit. (The main purpose of The Lutheran Catechetical Society is to bring together both the pastors and the laityof the entire circuit and any guests who wish to attend, to study the Word of God and the Lutheran Confessions.)During this past three years the circuit was host to five (5) different speakers on a variety of topics - Pastor DanielPreus, Sept. 17, 2006, Topic: “Worship, Christ and Salvation”; Pastor Rev. Peter Glock, February 28, 2007Topic: “The Office of the Holy Ministry”; Rev. Dr. Voss, Sept. 16, 2007, Topic: “The Future of Medicine;Human Stem Cell Research”; Professor Dr. Adam Francisco, April 20, 2008, Topic: “Islam” and Rev. Dr. KenSchurb, February 8, 2009 Topic: “Synodical Structure and Governance Recommendations of the BRTFSSG tothe 2009 District Conventions.”Respectfully Yours in Christ,Rev. Bruce Scarbeary – Trinity – RoanokeBloomington North Circuit CounselorBloomington South Circuit – Rev. Thomas Wirsing, Circuit CounselorThe Bloomington South Circuit is composed of the following congregations: Good Shepherd, Bloomington; OurRedeemer, Bloomington; Trinity, Bloomington; Zion, Danvers; St. Paul, Lexington; Good Shepherd, Minier, andChrist, Normal. In addition, we are privileged to count Wittenberg Lutheran Center, Normal, as one of ourministries.Additionally, our area is blessed with the presence of a wonderful Christian school, Trinity, Bloomington. Aswell, we have a Lutheran Child and Family Services office that meets a special need in the community.Two of God’s shepherds were called home to heaven since our last CID convention. The Rev. Dymann Jirovecdied on June 16, 2008; Pastor Jirovec was serving Wittenberg Lutheran Center, Normal, at the time of his death.On February 19, 2009, Emeritus pastor Carl Korte died. Pastor Korte had served in the Central Illinois Districtfor a number of years before his retirement.2009 Convention Section B – Reports Page 39

During this triennium two construction projects were initiated or completed. Good Shepherd, Minier, has plans toenhance her Sanctuary and fellowship hall in addition to adding several classrooms and a new kitchen. Actualconstruction is expected to begin later in 2009. Trinity, Bloomington, which has partnered with Lutheran Homesof Arlington Heights, Illinois, was privileged to participate in the dedication and opening of a 148-unit seniorhousing facility on land the congregation had purchased several years before; it opened in August, 2007.We are thankful that most of our ministries have not experienced a pastoral vacancy in the past three years.However, on November 18, 2007, Our Redeemer, Bloomington, joyfully installed her new shepherd, PastorJonathan Manor. Wittenberg Lutheran Center has recently received news that she has been assigned a convertiblevicar, Mr. William Jensen. At the time of this writing, no start-up date for his service has been determined.We have been blessed for many years by the presence of emeriti pastors, warriors who have served the cross formany decades. They are: Pastor Ernest Gerike, and Pastor Marvin Matzke. Their wisdom and insights areinvaluable.As much as we are thankful for the many blessings God has bestowed upon us in the past, we anticipate evenmore of His blessings in the years to come.Champaign Circuit - Rev. Dr. James F. Wright, Circuit CounselorOver the last 3 years our circuit was blessed to be able to gather over $100,000 to install heat and new flooringfor Lielsalaca Lutheran Church of Salacgriva, Latvia. Thanks be to God!The pastors of the Champaign Circuit meet each month for worship, study, and fellowship from Septemberthrough May.John in Mattoon and St. John in Champaign operate Christian day schools. We are blessed to have UniversityLutheran Church, a mission of the CID on the University of Illinois Campus, served by Rev. Rick Milas.Circuit Activity:On July 1, 2005 Seminarian J. Scott Weiler was assigned a delayed vicarage to form a new congregation in St.Joseph, by means of the C.I.D. Our Savior, St. Joseph held its first service on Christmas Eve, 2006. Rev. Weilerwas ordained and installed as first pastor of Our Savior in June of 2007. The congregation meets Sundays at alocal school averaging 40 in attendance.Rev. Del Nack retired as associate pastor and principal of St. John, Mattoon in January of 2006.In 2007 Rev. William Emrick of St. Paul, Sadorus accepted a call to serve St. Peter, St. Peter, IL. St, Paul isbeing served by Rev. Joseph Hughes as vacancy pastor.Rev. Daniel Skillman resigned from St. Paul, Mattoon (Dorans) in July, 2006. Rev. David Bessinger wasinstalled as pastor in October, 2007.Rev. Travis Kleinschmidt was ordained into the Holy Ministry at St. John, Champaign on June 15, 2008. Heserves as pastor of St. Jacobi Lutheran, Shawano, WI.In June of 2008, Rev. Troy Countryman was ordained and installed as Assistant Pastor of St. John, Mattoon.On June 29, 2008 Rev. Lynn Podoll of Immanuel, Broadlands retired from full-time ministry after 45 years ofministry.Rev. John Sharp was installed as pastor of Immanuel, Broadlands on April 19, 2009.Danville Circuit – Rev. Carl Janssen, Circuit CounselorGrace, mercy and peace be upon you from our risen Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.There are 15 congregations in our circuit.Ash Grove—St. John (Rev. Kevin Wendorf)Cissna Park—Immanuel (Rev. Kevin Wendorf)Cissna Park—Trinity (Rev. Christopher Decker, installed April 28, 2007)Buckley—St. John (Rev. Daniel Olson, installed August 31, 2008)Danville—Immanuel (Rev. Daniel Fienen)Danville—Trinity (Rev. Kent Tibben)Loda—Immanuel (Rev. David Allen)2009 Convention Section B – Reports Page 40

Milford—Our Savior (Rev. Jason Wagner)Hoopeston—Good Shepherd (Rev. James Batchlor)Onarga—Trinity (Rev. Micheal Poynter)Osmond—Immanuel (Rev. Edgar Peters)Thawville—St. Peter (Rev. Micheal Poynter)Thomasboro—Peace (Rev. Justin Schmidt, installed November 23, 2008)Watseka—Calvary (Rev. Donald Love)Woodworth—St. Paul (Rev. Ben Meyer, installed July 6, 2008 [Woodworth joined our circuit and theCentral Illinois District since the last District Convention].There are six schools in our circuit.Buckley—Christ Lutheran High SchoolBuckley—St. John Lutheran School (PS-8)Danville—Danville Lutheran School (PS-8)Woodworth—St. Paul Lutheran School (PS-8)Thomasboro—Little Disciples of Christ Preschool (PS)Watseka—Calvary Lutheran Preschool (PS)Pastors EmeritusRev. Larry Bell (Mahomet)Rev. Carl W. Janssen (Watseka-Circuit Counselor)Rev. Paul Lohnes (Hoopeston)Rev. Lynn Podoll (Rantoul)Rev. Richard Stamm (Buckley)Rev. Donald Stuckwisch (Goodwine)All of our congregations are presently involved in special mission projects be they local, national, world wide or acombination thereof.NOTE: Pastor Edgar Peters of Immanuel/Osman will be retiring effective May 23, 2009.Rev. Carl W. Janssen, EMDanville Circuit CounselorDecatur Circuit – Rev. Melvin Weseloh, Circuit CounselorIt has been a joy to serve as Circuit Counselor of the Decatur Circuit for the past six years. Discussions at ourlocal conferences have been educational and helpful. The past three years also brought three special opportunitiesto serve the church, a Circuit Counselors Conference in Milwaukee, a trip to Germany and Latvia with otherDistrict representatives, and serving as a delegate to the Snodical Convention in Houston. John Casebeer ofTrinity served as the lay delegate.One sad event happened. Our Redeemer Lutheran Church of Forsyth chose to become independent and leave theLutheran Church - Missour Synod.The pastoral roster in the circuit remains the same. Pastor Bill Gaugin became assistant pstor of St. John's buthas already left.A great strenth of our Circuit is the Lutheran School Association. Five of the six congregations are members ofthis school association, service Grades K through 12. The other has a scholarship program to assist with tuition.The school is a beacon to the community and trains children and youth in the faith.Rev. Melvin WeselohEffingham Circuit – Rev. Gary Fortkamp, Circuit CounselorDuring the past triennium, the Effingham Circuit met jointly with the Shelby Circuit on the first Tuesday of themonth. We enjoy the mutual support and encouragement that this arrangement offers.2009 Convention Section B – Reports Page 41

In August 2007, Trinity Lutheran Church, Casey and Good Shepherd Lutheran Church, Newton became vacantwhen Rev. Kurt Klingbeil left to become Associate Pastor of St. Peter Lutheran Church, Reedsburg, Wisconsin.Rev. Richard Krenzke, retired pastor, is presently serving Trinity Lutheran Church, Casey. Rev. GlennStrohschein served as vacancy pastor of Good Shepherd Lutheran, Newton until Rev. Michael Seidenstricker wasinstalled at Good Shepherd Lutheran, Newton on April 6, 2008.The Effingham Circuit held its Circuit Forum on Sunday, January 25, 2009 at St. Paul’s Lutheran, Wheeler.As Circuit Counselor, I made it a goal to call all the pastors and their family members on their birthdays andanniversaries. In this way I was able to make contact with them and their families.The Effingham Circuit continues to enjoy the blessings of our Lord and Savior as the congregations work to carryout His will. To God be the Glory, great things He has done!Your Servant in Christ,Rev. Gary D. FortkampJacksonville Circuit – Rev. Peter Brechbuhl, Circuit CounselorWeekly, on Tuesdays, most pastors of the circuit join together for an exegetical study of the pericopes using theGreek text.We meet monthly on the first Monday for a circuit-wide meeting with a worship service with holy communion, aGreek/Hebrew exegetical study and a doctrinal study. Different congregations host each month. Circuit pastorsprepare and lead the studies.Annually, we have a Bible Institute in the winter, a retreat at CILCA in May with a guest speaker who is usually aprofessor from one of our seminaries or colleges and a Circuit Reformation Service.Additionally, circuit pastors jointly support and report on the ministries of the LWML and LLL.Two vacancies were filled at St. John’s, Beardstown and the Triparish churches of Christ, Winchester, Immanuel,Arenzville and Trinity, Bluffs.from Pastor Peter BrechbuhlLincoln Circuit – Rev. Mark Peters, Circuit CounselorIn the name of Christ, our risen Savior and ascended Lord!The Lincoln Circuit is grateful to our God for the blessings of His Holy Spirit who continues to lead, guide, andencourage individuals to respond to the call of ministry. With the installation of a pastor in Christ Lutheran,Mason City, the Lincoln Circuit can now thank God for the blessings of all its’ congregation being served by apastor in full time ministry.St. John’s, TopekaDuring the past triennium the Lincoln Circuit was reduced by one congregation. The rural congregation, St. JohnLutheran, Topeka closed its door in 2008.Zion, Mt. PulaskiZion Lutheran, Mt. Pulaski, has opened the door to a new area of ministry. In 2007 they purchased the closedpublic grade school building in Elkhart, IL. They are able to utilize the building to help support their parochialschool programs and youth ministry. Also, by dedicating and naming the facility, Zion Lutheran Elkhart Center,2009 Convention Section B – Reports Page 42

they are trying to reach out in the community of Elkhart which has no Lutheran congregation. The LincolnCircuit has participated in this outreach sponsoring the 2008 Reformation Rally Worship Service and sendingyouth to the Jr. High Lock in each year which has had over 50 youth in attendance for each year so far.Christ, Delavan/St. Luke, San JoseDuring the last triennium, both of our congregations celebrated significant milestones in their respectiveministries. In 2007, Christ celebrated its 50 th congregational anniversary with a special afternoon service in earlyJune, at which former pastor Rev. David Kuchta served as the guest preacher. Two other former pastors,including Rev. Wesley Reimnitz of the CID Staff, were also in attendance.In 2008, St. Luke celebrated its 100 th congregational anniversary with a series of events throughout the year.Most notably, Rev. Dr. Robert Kuhn, former CID and LCMS President, served as the guest preacher for a specialafternoon service in mid-August. Another former pastor, along with two sons of the congregation, Revs. Geraldand Glenn Renken, both presently of the CID, were also in attendance.In June 2008, St. Luke also hosted an LCMS Servant Event for the first time, attended by roughly 30 high schoolyouth from six different churches in Illinois and neighboring states. The “Community Builders” event providedhome repairs for several families in the San Jose community. The congregation decided to take 2009 off buthopes to host a similar event in either 2010 or 2011.In February 2007, both congregations purchased and began using Lutheran Service Book, the first hymnal changeundertaken by either congregation since the introduction of TLH.In December 2008, Pastor Riddle and his family celebrated five years of ministry at Christ/St. Luke. The Lordhas continued to bless both of our congregations with fairly steady attendance and, though in small increments,some growth. To God alone be the glory!Zion, Lincoln / Faith, LincolnZion Lutheran, Lincoln has placed a call for a seminary graduate to serve as Assistant Pastor to work in youthministry. They are blessed have the Lord answer their prayers with a graduate placed with them this spring.What makes this call special is that Zion’s daughter congregation, Faith in Lincoln has committed $15,000annually to the salary of the pastor. In return this pastor will minister to high school youth both congregations.The Lincoln Circuit is thankful for all of the blessings of life and salvation in Jesus Christ and pray the Lord’scontinued blessings upon our outreach in the years to come.Pastor Mark D. PetersCircuit CounselorPeoria Circuit – Rev. Barry Long, Circuit CounselorA Brief Review of Peoria Circuit, 2006-9In the 2006-09 triennium, the following significant events took place for the Peoria Circuit:*Spring 2006: hosted the Rev. Dr. Steve Hein for a one-day seminar on the Theology of the Cross.*Fall 2006: held a Circuit Forum to elect delegates to the 2007 Synodical Convention.*Resumed joint meetings with Tazewell Circuit, during which we have read Kober’s Confession andForgiveness together, are currently reading Preus’ The Fire and the Staff, and have regular exegetical study on thepericope.*December 2006: Had Latvian Archbishop Janis Vanags visit two congregations in our circuit.*January 2007: Saw Michael Sidenstricker ordained and called to serve at Grace, Canton.*April 2007: Served as worship leaders for the Spring Pastors’ Conference.*Summer 2007: Regretfully acknowledged the closing of Robert Preus Lutheran High School; saw Pr.Stephen Hartmann retired from Redeemer, Peoria; and saw Mark Nelson ordained and installed to serve atTrinity, Peoria.2009 Convention Section B – Reports Page 43

*January 2008: Bid Pr. Sidenstricker farewell as he accepted a call to Good Shepherd, Newton.*Palm Sunday, 2008: Regretfully acknowledged the departure of Pr. Douglas Handrich and Holy Cross,Peoria from the LCMS.*Summer 2008: Saw Pr. Joe Meyer installed at Redeemer, Peoria; saw Pr. Aaron Schellhas installed atChrist, Peoria; inducted Vicar Ken Serr to serve at Grace, Canton; and consecrated and installed DeaconessChristine Buchinger to serve at Mt. Calvary, Peoria.The congregations and people of the Peoria Circuit remain grateful to God for His abundant gifts in Christ, andtrust that they will be led to witness to that grace in their teaching, worship and outreach to the greatercommunity.Quincy Circuit – Rev. Harold Bender, Circuit Counselor“I thank my God every time I remember you. In all my prayers for all of you, I always pray with joy because ofyour partnership in the gospel from the first day until now, being confident of this, that he who began a goodwork in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus.” (Philippians 1:3-6) Our gracious Lordhas continued to shower His blessings upon the Quincy Circuit these last three years.There has been only one pastoral vacancy in our circuit in the past three years. In July of 2006, Pastor Mark Eddyleft the dual parish of Holy Cross, Golden and St. Paul’s Bowen, to serve the people of God gathered at ZionLutheran Church in Taylor Ridge, Illinois. Just about one year later, God’s people of Holy Cross and St. Paul’sLutheran Churches called Michael Grieve, a candidate from Concordia Theological Seminary in Ft. Wayne, to betheir pastor. Also, this past year Rev. Stephen Mueller was called to be the Assistant Pastor of St. JamesEvangelical Lutheran Church in Quincy.The following is a list of churches in our circuit and the pastors serving in them: Concordia Warsaw – Rev. PaulBeisel; Good Shepherd, Clayton – Rev. Robert Alexander; Holy Cross, Golden and St. Paul, Bowen – Rev.Michael Grieve; Immanuel, Macomb and the Lutheran Student Center – Rev. Michael Burdick; Lutheran Churchof St. John, Quincy – Rev. Harold Bender; Our Redeemer, Quincy – Rev. Larry Troxel; St. James, Quincy – Rev.Marlin Rempfer and Rev. Stephen Mueller; and St. Paul, Pittsfield – Rev. Stephen Southward. We have oneretired pastor in our circuit, the Rev. Larry Saeger, who attends St. James in Quincy.Our circuit saw the departure of our two Directors of Christian Education: Dean Christ who served at Immanuel,Macomb, headed off to seminary at Fort Wayne; and Katy Rudzinski who served at the Lutheran Church of St.John, Quincy, headed to Seymour, Indiana, when her husband, Mark, accepted a call to teach at ImmanuelLutheran School, Seymour. The Lutheran Church of St. John is also in the vicarage program, with VicarsStephen Mueller serving 2006-7, James Fernandez serving 2007-8, and G. Tim McCall serving 2008-9.St. James Lutheran Church continues to serve the Quincy Community through their pre-k through 8 th gradeLutheran School. They serve about 150 students each year, as they help students and their families in “Seeingand Sharing Jesus.”Our circuit pastors meet monthly from September to May for Winkel conferences. One pastor hosts each month,leading us in an abbreviated service of Holy Communion. Two other pastors lead us in an exegetical study of apericope and a topic each month. We have very good attendance at our Winkels.In the Winter of each year, our circuit hosts the Quincy Bible Institute, which takes place on three successiveSunday evenings. This past February saw a new format for the Institute. The first night we brought in a guestspeaker, Rev. Tom Baker who hosts “Law and Gospel” on KFUO Radio; the second night had three circuitpastors leading topics; the third night was the Quincy Circuit Bible Bowl with seven youth teams competing. St.James was the host church this year.Finally, the Lutheran Church of St. John celebrated the dedication of their new facilities on March 18, 2007.About 325 people were in attendance at the dedication celebration. Funding for the project was a combination ofpledges in excess of $1,000,000 and additional funding from the Central-Illinois District Church Extension Fund.2009 Convention Section B – Reports Page 44

Throughout the years, our Lord continues to shower His blessings of Word and Sacrament upon ourcongregations day by day. To Him alone be the glory.Rock Island Circuit – Rev. Gary Wright, Circuit CounselorThe Rock Island Circuit is served by some very wise, capable, and faithful undershepherds. Our circuit is veryunified theologically. All our congregations are served by orthodox Lutheran pastors and many serve in districtand synodical capacities as well! Since the last convention, we have been pleased to welcome three pastors intoour circuit.In July of 2006, the Rev. Mark Eddy began his ministry to the saints at Zion, Taylor Ridge replacing Rev. JohnHafferman who has since left the Missouri Synod.In August of 2006, Rev. Stephen Gallo accepted the call to serve Immanuel Lutheran Church in Rock Island,replacing Rev. Kevin Cramm who departed to serve as a chaplain in the U. S. Army.We were all saddened by the death of our brother in the ministry, Rev. Robert Woods who entered glory onFebruary 6, 2008 after a brief battle with stomach cancer, but were pleased to welcome the Rev. ChristopherBushre of Lyons, Nebraska, who accepted the call to shepherd the flock at St. John Lutheran Church in EdfordTwp.) Geneseo, in September of 2008.Rev. Dr. Daniel Olson was called by the Lord of the Church to minister to the saints of St. John, Buckley. Weacknowledge God’s goodness in sending the Rev. Dr. John Wohlrabe to shepherd his saints at Concordia,Geneseo in his place.We are also grateful for the services of Rev. Paul Weber who recently began serving the East Moline CorrectionalCenter as chaplain.In the past triennium, we have seen two congregations call DCEs and they have been a great blessing to thecongregations they serve.Two of our congregations participate in the vicarage program and we have been blessed with some exceptionalvicars in recent years.We give thanks for the “retired” brothers in the ministry (Rev. Les Dumer, and Rev. Robert Yount) in our midst,and hope that we have their level of energy when we reach retirement years.In September 2008 Christ Lutheran High School relocated from Davenport, Iowa to Rock Island, Illinois. Thehigh school shares the facilities of Immanuel Lutheran School, and will be offering a classical curriculum forgrades 7 through 12 next year.The members of Zion, Taylor Ridge have begun a mission congregation in the Aledo, Illinois area and areanxious to tell the Good News about Jesus there.Our circuit is also the home of Iglisia Luterana Cristo Rey, (or Christ the King Lutheran Church). Cristo Rey hasbeen faithfully served by Rev. Pablo Dominguez since 2003. Thanks to the blessing of God, the hard work ofRev. Dominguez, the financial backing of our Central Illinois District, and a faithful group of people who work tobring the gospel to our Hispanic community, Cristo Rey now has it’s own building on the border of East Molineand Silvis. Cristo Rey reaches out to the Hispanic community with Word and Sacrament Ministry, a Food Pantry,ESL (English as a Second Language) Classes, and in a variety of other ways. God blessings can be clearly seen asthis mission continues to serve the Lord of the Church.The men of several of our congregations (Zion, East Moline, Beautiful Savior, Colona, Holy Cross, Moline, andSt. John, East Moline) are involved in a study of the Lutheran Confessions and have affiliated with Brothers ofJohn the Steadfast. They meet monthly for breakfast, study, and discussion. It is gratifying to see these men grow2009 Convention Section B – Reports Page 45

in their faith and in what it means to be truly Lutheran. They are eager to help other congregations and circuitsestablish BJS chapters. The women of our circuit are also very active in LWML.The pastors of the circuit meet monthly for study, brotherly discussion, and casuistry. We traditionally work onone of the upcoming pericopes from the Hebrew or Greek. In the past three years, we have also studied anddiscussed Klemmet Preus’ The Fire and the Staff, and are currently working through Scott Murray’s Law, Life,and the Living God. We also get together socially at least twice a year. We host an annual Pre-Lent PreachingWorkshop for pastors throughout the Midwest, and participate in a Circuit Good Friday Tre Ore service each yearthat rotates from congregation to congregation.May God continue to bless our Rock Island Circuit, our Central Illinois District, and our beloved Synod.Shelby Circuit - Rev. Steven Becker, Circuit Counselor“Oh give thanks to the Lord, for he is good for his steadfast love endures forever!” Psalm 118:1The workers and congregations of the Shelby Circuit are thankful for the Lord’s “steadfast love”. In this pasttriennium we have had continuous pastoral care in all of our congregations. Though a recent change has come upin Pana, the vacancy will be short, since the congregation has been assigned a candidate.Our thankfulness extends to the blessing of pastors who have served for a number of years:E. Wade Helmkamp 20 years (2007)Glenn Strohschein 35 years (2007)Michael Mohr 10 years (2008)Richard Bremer 25 years (2008)Paul McGhghy 30 years (2008)Steven Becker 30 years (2008)Richard Krenzke 40 years (2008)And those who are not in fulltime ministry, but assist when they can: Roger Eden and Glenn Renken.We give thanks for the regular assembling of our pastors for study of God’s Word and discussion of topicsrelated to our ministry with the brothers from the Effingham Circuit.Once a year we gather with the brothers of the Altamont Circuit for a special day of study with a specialguest.Truly the Shelby Circuit has much to be thankful for.Steven A. BeckerShelby Circuit Counselor7 May 2009Springfield East Circuit – Rev. Michael Koschmann, Circuit CounselorSince the 2006 District Convention, there have been a number of personnel changes in the Springfield EastCircuit.Seminary Candidate Samuel Janssen was ordained and installed as Pastor of Good Shepherd Lutheran Church inRochester on Sunday, August 3, 2008.The Reverend Aaron Schnelle was installed as Associate Pastor of Trinity Lutheran Church in Springfield onSunday, January 11, 2009Betsy Kohl was installed as Director of Christian Education of Good Shepherd Lutheran Church in Sherman onSunday, January 4, 2009.The Rev. Carl Cross (Emeritus and Assistant to the Pastor, Concordia Lutheran Church in Springfield), wascalled to his eternal home on Wednesday, August 1, 2007. A memorial service was held at Concordia onSaturday, August 4.2009 Convention Section B – Reports Page 46

On a historical note, the members of Holy Trinity Lutheran Church in Springfield celebrated the 120 th anniversaryof their congregation on Sunday, November 16, 2008. The parish is being served by the Reverend Robert Jensen(Emeritus), Springfield.The members of Springfield East continue to meet with the members of Springfield West in weekly exegeticalstudies and monthly Winkels.Springfield West Circuit – Rev. Keith Pereira, Circuit CounselorMy second term as circuit counselor has been very enriching. I have learned from my fellow brothers. Withouttheir support, prayers and encouragement the task at hand would be difficult and challenging. Me fellow pastorsgave me support after losing my father in 2005 and my mother in 2007. These were difficult times. But God andmy fellow pastors got me through it. It is an honor to be a part of the Springfield West Circuit.There have been changes in the circuit the last three years. Rev. Martin W. Mably was installed as AssociatePastor of Our Savior Lutheran Church, Springfield, IL on July 7, 2007. He served as Vicar there beginning inJune of 2006. On January 15, 2008 Rev. Joel T. Dieterichs resigned as Associate Pastor of Trinity LutheranChurch, Auburn, IL. February 1, 2008 was a wonderful day for Trinity Lutheran Church, Auburn, IL Rev. Dr.Harold Woodworth was installed as Assistant Pastor. Rev. Ron Schmidt who helped at Our Savior Springfieldwas called to glory.The Springfield West Circuit continues to meet with the Springfield East Circuit for their monthly PastoralConferences. Each week pastors from both circuits get together for a Bible Study that involves the lectionaryreadings. Different pastors take turns doing an exegetical and practical study of the lessons.One new ministry involves The Lutheran Hour. Congregations from both circuits have pledged money so TheLutheran Hour can be broadcast locally. As of March 1, 2009 the Lutheran Hour can be heard on radio stationWLUJ 89.7 Springfield at 3 P.M. What a wonderful opportunity to have God’s Word broadcast in the Springfieldarea.This will be my final term as Circuit Counselor. If it were not for my Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, I would havebeen unable to complete my term. To Him be all honor and glory world without end. May God go with our newCircuit Counselor. He will give him the strength to do His will as counselor. I will help him in any way possible.It has been an honor and a privilege to serve my fellow pastors.In Christ,Rev. Keith R. PereiraSpringfield West Circuit Counselor2009 Convention Section B – Reports Page 47

Triennial Report of the Central Illinois Commission on Mission ServicesThe Commission, through its appointed members, is intent on raising awarenessthroughout the district and among its congregations of the Kingdom work the Lord has givenus and would have us do. The portion of the District budget used for our mission work,personnel, and site maintenance is sizeable. Close to half of CID’s congregationalcontributions to the District are used for our District’s preaching stations, missioncongregations, campus ministries, work among the deaf and the developmentally disabled,prison ministries, and our foreign mission efforts in partnership with the Evangelical LutheranChurch of Latvia.The District Handbook outlines our responsibilities. First of all, locally we are to mirrorthe work the Synodical Board for Missions. Secondly, we are to focus on and promote all theDistrict’s efforts to further the Lord’s Kingdom throughout the 51 counties that comprise theCentral Illinois District. We are to look for opportunities for new mission starts. We are tosupervise the work of our CID missionaries. Much of our day-to-day work is performed in thecommission’s stead by the abundant and excellent abilities of the District’s Assistant to thePresident for Missions and Evangelism, the Rev. Joel Cluver. The Commission highly prizeshis advice and leadership, and fully respects, duly acknowledges, and gratefully thanks Rev.Cluver for his faithful service rendered to his Lord and our congregations since 1993.We continue to support and supervise the work done at our preaching stations. A vicarunder the direct oversight of President Bueltmann serves Risen Savior Lutheran Church ofBuffalo. Retired Pastor James Bloch serves Christ’s Family Lutheran Church of Mahomet.Following his vicarage there, the Rev. Scott Weiler was called as CID missionary to serve atOur Savior Lutheran Church in St. Joseph.During the past triennium, a highlight was the purchase through District and Synodicalfunding of the John Deere Credit Union building in East Moline into which Christ the King(formerly Grace) Hispanic Lutheran Mission moved. Pastor Pablo Dominguez has beenfaithful and diligent in his work there. Also to be commended is the assistance rendered by theHispanic Mission Council, which is made up of interested and active people from the churchesof the Rock Island Circuit.Grace Lutheran Church of Canton, amidst many obstacles and challenges, still exists as theonly Missouri Synod presence in all of Fulton County. The Rev. Ken Serr, recently ordained,continues his service to these people following a convertible vicarage.The Rev. Tom Phillips of Jacksonville serves in the capacity as full-time missionary andpastor to the deaf and has expanded his outreach to several other communities besidesJacksonville and Peoria. After much delay and deliberation, we are looking to demolish theparsonage at Christ Church of the Deaf in Jacksonville and build some office and meetingspace in its place.Deaconess Linda Schaefer, a prized CID resource for the developmentally disabled, hasexpanded her work load by adding, quite successfully, the Jacksonville facility for the disabledto the list of those places where she stops and shares her gifts and God’s Word. DeaconessSchaefer is still a salaried part-time worker of CID, and her position is reviewed and she is2009 Convention Section B – Reports Page 48

eappointed on an annual basis. We consider it a blessing that we were able to continue herservice throughout this last triennium.Prison work in Lincoln, Pittsfield, and Mt. Sterling continues on a part-time basis throughthe dedicated efforts of the Revs. Charles Olander and Steven Southward.Much of our expenditure of mission dollars goes into support for our work among collegestudents in the Universities found within the friendly confines of our District. We continue toexamine how to effectively use the limited and shrinking dollars we receive and not all ourexperimentation and labors have been well received. For several reasons our focus was turnedto the Wittenberg Center at Illinois State University in Normal. The Lord took the Rev.Dymann Jirovec to heaven, Pastor Jerry Koch (et. al.) has ably served the vacancy, and aconvertible vicar, Bill Jensen, from Concordia, St. Louis, and a member of Good Shepherd,Sherman, will be in place this summer. Our attempt to encourage Wittenberg to become atown/gown ministry did not work and Wittenberg will remain strictly student-oriented as acampus ministry.Other campus work continues at University Lutheran (University of Illinois) under the ongoingand blessed leadership of the Rev. Rick Milas. The campus ministry in Charleston atEastern Illinois University has seen much success under the direction of the Rev. Ken Hooverand especially through the hard and faithful work of Mr. Greg Witto. Our efforts continue atWestern Illinois University through our partnership with Immanuel Lutheran Church inMacomb. The Rev. Mike Burdick serves as pastor of Immanuel and Campus pastor of St.Timothy Student Center.We still have a partnership with the Evangelical Lutheran Church of Latvia and itsArchbishop, the Rt. Rev. Janis Vanags. We have had exchanges of visitors. Pastors andChurch officials from this formerly communist Baltic state (and now EU member) who havepresented the work and mission of the Latvian Church. We have established closer parish-toparishrelationships between CID congregations and those in Latvia. We have providedfunding to help with the purchase of cars and computers, and to support seminary andcontinuing pastoral education, and benevolent outreach and relief ministries in Riga.The devoted and determined efforts of the commission members are offered to our Lord,and the Central Illinois District, its congregations and members, as our act of gratitude to beable serve and to be of assistance wherever the Lord of the Church so desires. We pray thatthese efforts would be so blessed by the Lord that His Kingdom may benefit and the Gospelmay profit and be spread to every corner of Central Illinois and “to the ends of the earth.” SoliDeo gloria!CID Commission on Mission ServicesThe Rev. Mark A. Miller, ChairmanThe Rev. James A. Stuenkel, Vice ChairmanMrs. Liz Neumann, SecretaryMr. Raymond StuckemeyerMr. Daniel Bangert2009 Convention Section B – Reports Page 49

Report of the Commission on Evangelism Services2006-2009 TrienniumEvangelism Commission members for the 2006-2009 triennium are Pastor Daniel Bishop,Pastor David Knuth, and Mr. Matthew Putnam, assisted by Rev. Joel Cluver from our Districtstaff.The Commission has met regularly over the triennium. Among its activities the Commissionhas:∑ reviewed a report from Pastor Jeff Gross on "The 72" program∑ hosted a Rural/Small Town conference with Pastor Geoff Robinson as presenter∑ encouraged the use of Today's Light Bible Study resources through a pastors'conference∑ suggested a pastors' conference speaker on the topic of Evangelism - somethingwe had not had for many years; the conference planning committee kindlyobliged with Dr. Klaus Detlev Schultz∑ reviewed "Forever Free," a DVD evangelism resource from Dr. Wallace Schulz∑ reviewed reports on Revitalization training∑ attended and evaluated an "Equipping to Share" evangelism workshop hostedby Lutheran Hour Ministries∑ planned a Great Commission Convocation for Nov. 7, 2009 at Trinity LutheranChurch, Bloomington; you will hear about this more at this convention∑ received reports from Rev. Joel Cluver and encouraged him in his work ofvisiting pastors, providing evangelism resources, and conducting trainingworkshops in our congregationsWe are thankful for the faithful work of Rev. Joel Cluver, Assistant to the District President inEvangelism, who carries out most of the work of the Commission as part of his daily duties.Respectfully submitted,Pastor Daniel Bishop, chairman2009 Convention Section B – Reports Page 50

Congregational Life CommissionCommission Members: Mrs. Ellen Griffin, Mr. Robert (Bob) Minnis, Rev. Mark Eddy, Rev.Ted Gall, Mr. Herbert Krueger“The Congregational Life Commission vision shall be: Growing and Building Relationship inChrist in the congregations, our circuits, our district, and our LCMS.” Our Society is facinginstability in our culture, institutions, and family. The Commission shall seek to carry out thisvision and bylaws in the following manners:∑ The commission will be develop a Resource Notebook similar, but not identicalto the CID Youth Ministry in Excellence Tool Box Resource book.∑ Finding best practices in our various congregations and linking othercongregations who seek improve their various practices or programs.∑ Developing servant events in the congregation, circuit, district, and synod thatcan be intergenerational.The activities of the Commission centered around:1. Communications Committee attached to the Commission in 2007 and the committeeredesigned the Website.2. Youth- Developing Youth groups and conducted Jr. High Lockin- and national youthgathering under Ellen Griffin’s guidance.3. We provide through our executive Christ-centered Visioning planning withCongregations.4. Leaders Workshops for congregational leaders were provided in 2008 and 2009. Plansare to carry the project forward for the next 3 years.5. Resource notebook: We are in the final stages of providing a congregational resourcenotebook.6. Demographics for Congregations. In 2008, the commission in conjunction thegenerosity of CID Church Extension Fund undertook to provide all CID congregationswith free access to demographics of their areas for congregational planning.In the next 3 years.1. We need to provide Seminars in worship- How LSB is contemporary and traditional!2. We need to work with Stewardship to develop a Family Life District Convocation.Reaching out to various needs of our families and strengthening our families.3. The Leaders Workshops/Seminars have been well received in providing training andskills to our church leaders. Our plans are to continue and further develop this area.4. Increasingly lay people are asking at the election of district president and other areaswho is eligible in our district. The commission took the concern to the District Boardof Directors to develop biographical information in two to three sentences for districtpastors. Their response was the timing of this year’s request was perhaps late incoming and perhaps can be done in time for the next convention nominations. Wewould like to see a 3 line to 4 line biographical on Pastors of our District for upcomingdistrict elections. Congregations are seeking and wanting to know the pastors of ourdistrict and make informed decision about voting.2009 Convention Section B – Reports Page 51

5. Vision and planning for our congregations and pastors. It is always a plus when ourcongregations lay plans to better utilize the resources of time, people, and financial tocarry forward our message of Jesus Christ.6. We need to continue support for youth programs. We have good working youthmanual which helps our church’s start, restructure, or continue in their youth ministry.7. Developing and offering intergenerational Servant events as more and more familiesare seeking to help at food banks, housing, or various families in need of assistanceother than financial.A special thank-you to all served on the Congregational Life Commission and the faithfulservice of our executive, Rev. Wesley Reimnitz.Respectfully submitted,Mr. Bob Minnis2009 Convention Section B – Reports Page 52

CID-YMC Report2006∑ Adult & Youth Leadership Training held at Camp CILCA on Feb 3-4, 2006. Youthparticipated in “Teen Bible Study Training”, Adults in “Youth Ministry Excellence”.∑ 2 youth from CID attended the Congregating of Lutheran Youth FellowshipRepresentatives held in St Louis, MO on March, 2006. They were trained in “TeenBible Study Training”.∑ Jr-Hi Lock-In held at St John, Champaign and CRCE of U of I on Nov. 10-11, 2006.337 youth and 112 adults from 29 CID congregations.2007∑ 1 youth from CID attended the Congregating of Lutheran Youth FellowshipRepresentatives held in St Louis, MO on March 15-18, 2007. Training in “TeenService Training“ was received.∑ 55 youth and 17 adults from 14 CID congregations attended the Sr-Hi Lock-In atTrinity, Bloomington and Shirk Center, Illinois Wesleyan University on April 13-14,2007. 3 CID youth workers and 9 college students led breakout sessions on preparingfor college. CID-YMC LYF Representatives led breakout sessions on “Teen BibleStudy Training.”∑ 890 from CID congregations attended Pirates Dinner Adventure, district activity at theNational Youth Gathering in Orland, FL July 28- August 1, 2007.∑ Jr Hi Lock-In held Trinity, Bloomington and Shirk Center, Illinois WesleyanUniversity on Nov 9-10, 2007. 305 youth and 78 adults from 32 CID congregationsattended.2008∑ Jr Hi Lock-In held Trinity, Bloomington and Shirk Center, Illinois WesleyanUniversity on Nov 14-15, 2008. 330 youth and 80 adults from 23 CID congregationsattended.2009 Convention Section B – Reports Page 53

Stewardship Commission ReportIn the past triennium, the Stewardship Commission was composed of the following members:Mr. Stan Bantner, Mr Steve Schumacher, Rev. Michael Damery, Rev. Donald Pritchard, Mr.David Rohe, Rev. Wesley Reimnitz, Assistant to President Bueltmann in the area ofStewardship, and Mr. James Frazee, chairman.Stewardship Commission business:1. Worked on District Guidelines for salaries.2. Discussed the rising costs of the Concordia Health Plan and options available for thedifferent components of the offered plans.3. Approved Stewardship Workshops for new pastors and vicars to the CID.4. Approved Student Aid Grants to the CID Board of Directors.5. Held performance reviews of our Stewardship Executive, Rev. Wesley Reimnitz, andrecommended to the CID Board of Directors to issue another Call to Rev. WesleyReimnitz.6. Worked with Mr. David Rohe on the CID Foundation.7. Continued to have the District Guidelines for salaries available on the District website.8. Reviewed the financial reports for Camp CILCA.9. Requested that congregations continue to use Synod’s Stewardship CongregationalWorkbook and also to utilize Rev. Ron Chewning’s “12 Months of Stewardship” cd.10. Rev. Wesley Reimnitz continued to conduct Stewardship Seminars in severalcongregations.11. Posted goals and visions for a proposed District Stewardship Convocation in 2010along with a District Resolution calling for the same.I wish to thank the members of this Stewardship Commission for their time and hard workin achieving the above goals. I also wish to thank District Executive, Rev. WesleyReimnitz, for his guidance and support in this important area of work to our CentralIllinois District. We pray for God’s continuing blessing on the work that He has entrustedto us and the congregations in this District.Respectfully submitted,James T. Frazee, Chairman2009 Convention Section B – Reports Page 54