Dear Members of Epiphany Lutheran Church & School,
As Pastor reminded us, we are entering a new church year! Advent is a season to celebrate Christ’s coming and anticipate His glorious return. This message serves as an update from today’s Congregational Meeting, especially for those unable to attend. Here’s a summary of what was shared:
Thanksgiving Feast and Devotion on Hospitality
We began with a wonderful Thanksgiving Feast—delicious food and plenty of leftovers to share! Pastor Muchow led a devotional on hospitality, presenting 15 practical steps to welcome guests into our services and programs. His insights inspire us to extend God’s love to our community and open doors to Gospel opportunities.
Ministry Updates from the Boards
Finance Update
Bob Symmank presented an overview of our financial condition through October. While giving is slightly behind and expenses slightly ahead, past trends give us faith that things will balance by year-end. Bob also reported on our mortgage balance and how congregational investments at Church Extension Fund (CEF) reduce our interest costs.
Board of Education
Beth and Brittany shared exciting updates on youth activities. Highlights included:
– The success of the monthly E-Kids productions.
– Preparations for the 2024 Youth Gathering in New Orleans.
– Plans for a Trivia Night and Spaghetti Dinner fundraiser.
Day School
We celebrated the creativity of our Day School team, who—together with Christian Rumscheidt—produced an engaging video showcasing the school. With 182 students currently enrolled, we still have room for 72 more! Spread the word about our school, and let’s reach even more families with the Good News of Jesus Christ.
We’re also thrilled to announce that Matt Schleicher has officially accepted our call to be the school principal for the 2025–2026 school year. Please extend a warm welcome to Matt, his wife Kim, and their sons Ian, Ryan, and Nathan as they join our congregation.
Board of Elders
The Elders welcomed Drew Dietrich and Delisle Doherty to their team and reminded us of their key responsibilities, including:
– Supporting our pastors.
– Organizing care groups for members.
– Assisting with communion.
– Managing service logistics (opening/closing).
– Coordinating the SOS (Serving Our Saints) volunteer group, which helps with small projects for those in need.
Board of Properties
Ed reported that the church’s lights, plumbing, and HVAC systems are functioning well (thank the Lord!). He also celebrated the new LED sign on West Road, which is operational. Special offerings are being accepted to offset its $30,000 cost.
Board of Stewardship
Dwight emphasized that most contributions come through plate offerings, while fewer members use mailed envelopes. To reduce costs, members not using envelopes can contact the office to opt out. He also noted that online giving incurs processing fees; consider adding 3% to your donation to cover this cost.
Ministry Highlights
Via Nueva Partnership
Pastor Muchow shared the blessing of partnering with Via Nueva, a Spanish-speaking congregation. They’ve joined us in Food Pantry ministry and now hold Saturday evening services at our facility. Four families from the Food Pantry have started engaging with their congregation—a wonderful example of our outreach bearing fruit.
Other ministries remain vital:
– Stephen Ministry: Four new members are pursuing training to join this caring ministry.
– LWML: Continues impactful work with health kits, school kits, and visits to shut-ins.
– Food Pantry: The need is growing, and volunteers are always welcome—even for just one Saturday a year!
New Business
Vision for School Expansion
Thanks to the efforts of Bob Symmank, Buddy Wimberley, and Rick Mallon, we unveiled exciting plans for a future school expansion. Phase one envisions eight new preschool classrooms and additional restrooms. Site plans are available in the Welcome Center for review.
The congregation approved a motion to begin interviewing architects and launching a Capital Campaign. To be clear, no expenditures have been authorized. If we reach that stage, a Special Congregational Meeting will be called. Stay tuned for updates as this vision unfolds.
Thank you for your continued dedication and service. Together, we are building a vibrant community that shares the love of Christ with others.
Serving with you in His name,
Michael Marcus
President of Congregation,
Epiphany Lutheran Church & School
