Immanuel Lutheran Church Council

A Word from Your Council Pres 

It’s mid-December, when I’m writing a brief update on some happenings I foresee coming in the next couple of months. 

Immanuel is in a unique position, ready to engage in this rare opportunity of interim transition, and I want to make certain that we all realize now is our time to shine! 

After a quarter century of having the same Pastor, we are ready to tackle the necessary work of our interim period. It’s a time for self-study, setting new goals and gaining new perspectives to ensure a healthy future for Immanuel. 

I realize it’s been six months since Pastor Paul retired, and some of us have been anxious for action, but I’m reminded that the calendar moves significantly faster than most of us. In addition, we know God has plans, and we pray and look for His guidance and direction, without undue self-driven hurriedness. 

I see 2026 as a tremendous opportunity for us to embrace who we are, in the here and now, and to work systematically together to develop a vision for tomorrow’s Immanuel. If we handle our transition successfully, we will have laid the groundwork and established a good base and understanding of the kind of Pastoral leadership we might attract and need for a successful future. 

At this writing, we are just beginning to seek strong key individual congregation leaders who can help guide us through the transition process. We are developing a Transition Team to guide us in 2026. Note, there are three anticipated council positions open in February, as well. Listen for your tap on the shoulder. Is God calling you to serve? What talents can you bring to Immanuel’s needs today? 

Pastor Ian is providing our Pastoral ministry needs during this transition time and is currently encouraging our review of organizational and governance structure. Expect minor Constitution and governance document changes to come before the congregation in January in preparation for the February Annual Meeting. 

Whether you are a snowbird or a die-hard year-round Immanuelite, your continued participation in the congregation is important. We will utilize electronic means, whenever possible, to keep everyone connected, no matter where you are. In other words, Stay tuned, Stay connected. We Need You!