Alumni/ae News

Updated November 17, 2009

To contribute to alum News, fill out our online alum news item submission form, or mail notices to:

Alum News, Office of Communication
Luther Seminary
2481 Como Avenue
St. Paul, MN  55108
communic@luthersem.edu

Display News:	All News | Call/Ordination | General | Honors | In Memory
	Past 6 Months | Past 2 Years | Display All
Browse by Decade:	0s | 00s | 90s | 80s | 70s | 60s | 50s | 40s | 30s | 0s | 0s |

The 0s - back to the top

Stephanie Swanson, '99, and Charles Swanson, '07, welcomed daughter Sadie Alice Swanson on September 17th.  (submitted 11/17/2009)

The 00s - back to the top

Mikyoung Park, '08, led the worship service at the Minnesota Annual Conference of the United Methodist Church on Friday, May 30, 2008.  Annual Conference is the annual gathering of clergy and lay representatives who represent the Minnesota Conference of the UMC in making decisions and passing resolutions that set ministry practices and procedures for the Conference. The service included an eclectic mix of international music from the United Methodist Hymnals. Mikyoung also sang a stirring Korean anthem.  (submitted 7/25/2008)   Anna Laino, '08, passed away on February 5, 2009.  Anna was the music director at St. David's Episcopal Church in Minnetonka, Minn.  She loved playing music and leading worship, all to the glory of God.  (submitted 2/12/2009)   Katie (Keller) Koch, '08, is included in an article on ABC News online called "The Last of the Facebook and Twitter Holdouts." The entire article can be found at : www.abcnews.go.com/Technology/AheadoftheCurve/story?id=7269736&page=1 Katie is a pastor in Roseau.  (submitted 4/7/2009)   Emily Myallis, '08, Emily Myallis was Consecrated as a Diaconal Minister on August 30, 2008 in Lebanon, Penn., Lower Susquehanna Synod.  She is called to Eldercare, a day-program for older adults, and to Zion's Lutheran Church in Jonestown, Penn.  (submitted 9/4/2009)   Robert Myallis, '08, and Emily Myallis, '08, welcomed a baby girl, Audrey Renee, on September 18, 2008  (submitted 9/28/2008)   Julie Anderson, '07, was ordained on May 20, 2007 at Bethany-Elim Lutheran Church in Ivanhoe, MN by Bishop Jon Anderson of the SW Minnesota Synod.  She was then installed as a team minister with Stephen P. Rasumusson M.Div.('81), D.Min ('00) as they were installed as team minsters for Winds of the Prairie Ministry.  The multiple area parish is made up of five churches in the communities of Arco, Ivanhoe, Lake Benton, Minneota and Ruthton Minnesota with Rev. Gary Veit leading the pastoral team.  (submitted 2/4/2008)   John Paulson, '07, presented a paper at the Community Capitals Framework Institute in Ames, Iowa in November. Entitled "Cross-Training Congregations for Rural Servant-Leadership," the paper was an adaptation of his thesis written for the Doctor of Ministry Program in Congregational Mission and Leadership. The Institute is an annual consultation for people involved in rural community development.  (submitted 2/25/2008)   Craig Nehring, '07, was ordained on December 15, 2007 at Bethel Lutheran Church, Hawkins, WI by Bp. Jon Anderson, SWMN synod. Was installed at Immanuel Evangelical Lutheran Church in New Auburn, MN on January 13, 2008  (submitted 4/24/2008)   William Nelsen, '07, was ordained on June 22 at Trinity Lutheran Church, St. Peter, Minn. He serves as pastor at St. Paul's Lutheran and Trinity Lutheran Churches, Gaylord, Minn.  (submitted 9/2/2008)   Alvina Olstead, '07, has accepted a call to First Lutheran in Opheim, Montana. Ordination will be Oct. 12, 2008 at Ferndale, Wash.  In addition to serving as a pastor Alvina is the music teacher at the Opheim K-12 school  (submitted 9/28/2008)   Christopher Byars, '07, and Dawn Byars, was ordained February 17, 2008 at Advent Lutheran Church in Boca Raton, FL.  He was then installed as Pastor of Shepherd of the Hills Lutheran Church in Dade City, FL. on March 30, 2008.  (submitted 12/11/2008)   Christopher Byars, '07, and Dawn Byars, welcomed Jameson Daniel Byars who was born July 6, 2008 in Zephyrhills, FL.  (submitted 12/11/2008)   Thomas Lip Tet Tsen, '07, and Laura Susianty Hindrianto, '08, Thomas is being elected as the Bishop of the Basel Christian Church of Malaysia (A Lutheran Church in Malaysia) for the term 2008 to 2011. Laura has been appointed as the Dean of Students of Sabah Theological Seminary in Malaysia and teaching as pastoral care and counseling professor in the seminary starting in January 2008.  (submitted 5/31/2008)   Natacha Kemp, '06, will begin her first call as Senior Pastor of Good Shepherd Lutheran Church in Wichita, Kansas on September 17, 2006.  (submitted 8/16/2006)   Rob James, '06, his wife, Ann, and big sister Emma give thanks to God for the safe arrival of Claire Kylee James, who was born February 26, 2008.  (submitted 3/4/2008)   Rachel (Oldfather) Stout, '06, was called on June 24th to serve at Immanuel Lutheran Church, Wadena MN as the Associate Pastor. Rachel and her husband Ryan and son Soren live in New York Mills MN.  (submitted 7/25/2008)   Andar Parlindungan, '06, from Indonesia, started Ph.D. work at the University of Hamburg, Germany in April 2008. He graduated with a M.Th. degree from Luther Seminary. His wife and he had a baby boy in January 2008. The baby was born in Sidoarjo, East Java Indonesia where he had a call as a parish minister in the area.  (submitted 9/30/2008)   Ingelaurie Lisher, '06, was commissioned as an Associate in Ministry at St. Mark's Lutheran Church by The Narrows, Tacoma WA on Sunday, June 14th 2009 where she serves as the Director of Youth and Family Ministry.  (submitted 6/11/2009)   Ingelaurie Lisher, '06, married Bruce C. Sadler on Saturday, November 8th 2008 at St. Mark's Lutheran Church by The Narrows, Tacoma WA.  (submitted 6/11/2009)   Scott Block, '06, recently had his book "From Death to Life: We have this sure and steadfast anchor of the soul" published by Wipf and Stock Publishers in Oregon. The book is available for purchase from them and can also be purchased at Amazon.  (submitted 10/19/2009)   Jennifer Rose, '06, and Matthew Rose, '09, happy to announce the birth of our first child:  Chloe Madelynn Rose, born on September 13th, 2007.  She was 8 lbs 8 oz, and 19 3/4 inches long!  God has so richly blessed us.  (submitted 10/21/2007)   Becca (Martin) Poock, '06, and Matthew Poock, '08, were married August 30, 2008 at Riverside Lutheran Bible Camp, Story City, IA. Becca is the Community Engagement Coordinator/Augie Choice Director at Augustana College, Rock Island, IL. Matthew is a resident pastor at St. Paul Lutheran, Davenport, IA.  (submitted 9/17/2008)   Trisha (Hanson) Boese, '06, and Kyle Boese, '99, moved to Centerville, S.D. after receiving a first call at Scandia Lutheran Church. Trisha's ordination was February 10th, 2006 at Peace Lutheran Church in Sioux Falls.  Installation at Scandia Lutheran was on February 11th, 2006 during worship.  (submitted 8/27/2007)   Sue Kiester, '05, married David Grinde on Sept. 17. The ceremony took place at Our Savior's Lutheran Church in Stillwater, MN. Sue is serving as pastor at Our Redeemer Lutheran Church in Bryant, SD.  (submitted 10/10/2005)   Trudy Cretsinger, '05, was ordained Sept. 23, 2005 at her home congregation, First Evangelical Lutheran Church, Mesa, Ariz. She received her first call from Trinity Lutheran Church in Topeka, Kan. She was installed as pastor at Trinity on Oct. 30.  (submitted 11/4/2005)   Jessica Rivera, '05, was called to St. James Lutheran Church in Burnsville, MN.  (submitted 1/3/2006)   Justin Grimm, '05, and his wife, Anna, of Lake Ann, Mich., welcomed Payton Dianne into the world on Jan. 18, 2006. She joins brother Logan (3).  (submitted 1/25/2006)   Christopher Hawkins, '05, and his wife Renee, are proud to announce the birth of their healthy baby boy, Nathan James Hawkins. Nathan was born on Wednesday May 30, weighing in at 8 pounds 6 ounces is 21 inches long and sports a full head of hair.  (submitted 6/3/2007)   Lee Ann Machosky Pomrenke, '05, Lee Ann Machosky married Stefan Pomrenke on May 25, 2007 at Bethel Lutheran Church in Manassas, VA, where Lee Ann is a pastor. The couple will reside in Fredericksburg, VA for the next year, while Stefan completes his medical degree, and Lee Ann enters her third year of her first call.  (submitted 7/28/2007)   Kenath Harris, '05, of St. Paul, MN, submitted a winning nomination of "Lutheranism" for the "Minnesota 150" exhibit at the Minnesota Historical Society. The full submission can be viewed at: discovery.mnhs.org/MN150/index.php?title=Lutheranism  (submitted 11/8/2007)   Jay Wilson, '05, has begun working in ministry and social justice work with The Welcome Ministry in San Francisco, where he moved with partner, Galen Smith, who recently took a job with SEIU International. Learn more at www.welcomeministry.org.  (submitted 4/28/2008)   Steve Bliss, '05, accepted a call to serve as pastor of Zion Lutheran Church in Buffalo Lake, Minn. He began serving on Jan 10, 2009. He had previously served from Aug 2005 to Jan 2009 as pastor at St Olaf Lutheran in Grenora, ND and United Lutheran in Zahl, ND.  (submitted 1/15/2009)   Sue Kiester-Grinde, '05, and Dave Grinde are proud to announce the finalization of the adoption of their daughter Hannah Mary Elizabeth Grinde on April 13, 2009.  Hannah was born on March 11, 2008 at 29 weeks. Sue is in her second call at Salem Lutheran Church, Salem, SD.  (submitted 6/10/2009)   Amy Fondroy Eich, '05, will be installed as the new pastor at Joy Lutheran Church in Prescott, Wis. on Sunday, August 2, 2009 at both the 8:15 and 10:00 a.m. worship services.  She will be installed by Pastor Amy Odgren, Assistant to the Bishop of the Northwest Wisconsin Synod of the ELCA.  Fondroy Eich will be moving to Prescott from Jefferson, Iowa, where she has served as pastor of Christ Lutheran Church since 2005.  (submitted 7/31/2009)   Hans Dahl, '05, and Katie Pence Dahl, '05, Hans received a call to Gustavus Adolphus Lutheran Church, St. Paul, MN as Associate Pastor effective July 2006. He was ordained on August 26 at Gustavus.  Katie recently accepted a position as the Associate Director of the Global Mission Institute at Luther Seminary.  (submitted 9/13/2006)   Katie Dahl, '05, and Hans Dahl, '05, announce the birth of their son, Lars Christian Dahl, on September 10, 2007.  (submitted 10/8/2007)   Erik Gronberg, '05, and Kendra Mohn, '05, are thankful for the birth of their first child, Annika Christine Marie Gronberg, born April 15th, 2008.  Annika was 8 lb. 15.5 oz and 19.5 inches long.  She was baptized July 5, 2008 at Dr. Martin Luther Church, Oconomowoc, WI (Erik's church).  Rev. Gary Johnson, Senior Pastor at Mt. Zion Lutheran, Wauwatosa, WI (Kendi's church), officiated.  (submitted 7/20/2008)   Annie (Janzen) Haverlah, '05, and Stephen Haverlah, '08, welcomed a baby boy, Andrew Mark Haverlah, who was born April 9, 2009, in Abilene, Kansas.  (submitted 5/14/2009)   John Okan, '05, and Liza Okan, '96, have been called to serve as pastor of Immanuel Lutheran Church in rural Whatcom County, Wash.  John previously served as pastor in Vining, Minn. at a four point parish, since 2005.  Okan and his wife, Liza, were blessed with the birth of their daughter, Eleanor Rose, on June 27, 2009, three weeks after he conducted his first service at Immanuel Lutheran.  They also have a daughter, Sophia, who turned 2 on July 19.  A complete news article regarding his new call can be found at www.thenewstribune.com/news/northwest/story/827795.html  (submitted 8/4/2009)   Matthew Philaya, '04, had a baby boy, Thomas Andrew, on June 24. Thomas was 7 lbs. 6 oz. and 20 inches long at birth. Both Jennifer and the baby are doing well.  (submitted 7/9/2004)   Dana (Pukrop) Jackson, '04, married Derek Jackson on Aug. 15. Dana is the associcate pastor at Mount Hope Lutheran Church West Allis, Wis. Derek works as the supervisor of workers compensation finance for United Wisconsin Insurance Company in New Berlin, Wis.  (submitted 8/27/2004)   Joshua Schunk, '04, and his wife, Kelli, celebrated the birth of their first child, Ella Grace on Feb. 7, 2005.  (submitted 2/8/2005)   Pollyanna Tews, '04, was called to serve St. John's Lutheran Church in Ohiowa, Neb. on March 13. A service of ordination and installation was held on May 1, with Bishop David L. deFreese presiding.  (submitted 6/8/2005)   Scott McAnally, '04, took the Dale Carnegie Leadership Course this past summer, and was awarded the "Highest Award for Achievement" for outstanding overall growth and performance throughout the course, and for the one who best represents Dale Carnegie principles in leadership.  (submitted 10/28/2005)   Claire Bischoff, '04, co-edited and contributed to the recently published My Red Couch and Other Stories on Seeking a Feminist Faith (Pilgrim Press) with Rachel Gaffron. Ellie Roscher '05 and Megan Thorvilson '07 also contributed essays to this multi-denominational collection of young women's stories about trying to reconcile Christian faith and feminist commitments.  (submitted 4/14/2006)   Matt Philaya, '04, received a call to First Lutheran Church, Fergus Falls, MN as Pastor of Education and Family Life effective July 2006. Matt and his wife Jenny and their son Tommy have moved to Fergus Falls.  (submitted 8/10/2006)   James Page, II, '04, along with four ELCA pastors (Northwest Synod of Wisconsin) will run in the Great River Relay on August 25th-26th. The relay begins in La Crosse, WI., extends up the banks of the Mississippi River, and ends in St. Paul, MN. for an overall distance of 206 miles. The 'Faster Pastors' are joining their four congregations, along with Thrivent Financial, to raise funds for 'camperships' at Luther Point Bible Camp in Grantsburg, WI. The hope is that youth will be able to attend summer camp with little expense and that financial constraints may not be a reason to hinder youth from attending the worthwhile experience of summer camp. The 'Faster Pastors' consists of Pastor Brian Ferguson ('04, Mt. Zion in Hudson); Pastor Jim Page, II ('04, Faith in Balsam Lake); Pastor Chad Kohlmeyer ('05, Eidsvold in Bay City and Bethlehem in Ellsworth, WI.) and Jay Ticknor ('05, Bethany, Grantsburg). The other two team members are Angie Vetsch, whose husband is a current ELCA pastor and Jim Johnson, who is a member of Mt. Zion in Hudson. This is a unique and fun way to raise funds for such a worthy cause. We hope our marathon experiences will help us in this great endeavor...some thought a fitting team name would be the 'crazy clergy!'  (submitted 8/14/2006)   James Page, II, '04, and wife, Michelle, celebrated the birth of their first born, Benjamin James, on August 15th.  (submitted 8/30/2006)   Scott McAnally, '04, and his wife Jen are expecting their first child in May. Scott is an associate pastor in Great Falls, VA.  (submitted 11/3/2006)   Joshua Schunk, '04, and Kelli Schunk, celebrated the birth of their second child, Caleb Erwald on November 2nd. He joins his sister Ella.  (submitted 11/9/2006)   Scott McAnally, '04, and his wife Jen welcomed Stephen Richard McAnally into their lives on May 3.  Stephen came with style, weighing in at 9lbs, 6oz and is 21" long.  (submitted 5/7/2007)   Scott McAnally, '04, and Jennifer McAnally, Scott and Jen welcomed their 1st child, Stephen Richard on May 3, 2007, weighing 9 lbs, 6oz and measuring 21" long.  Scott also has been accepted to begin a Doctorate of Ministry program at the Lutheran Theological Seminary at Philadelphia.  (submitted 5/15/2007)   Amanda Olson de Castillo, '04, and Horacio Darynel Castillo, Ordained into the Iglesia Luterana Agustina de Guatemala (Augustinian Lutheran Church of Guatemala)and comissioned for service by the St. Paul Area Synod, Southeastern Synod and Global Mission Unit during St. Paul Area Synod Assembly on June 1, 2007.  (submitted 7/3/2007)   Carol Sinykin, '04, accepted a call at Abiding Savior Lutheran Church in Mounds View, Minn.  (submitted 10/9/2007)   Sara Yotter, '04, accepted a new call as Assistant to the Bishop of the South Central Synod of Wisconsin.  (submitted 3/10/2008)   Pollyanna Robbins, '04, married Lewis B. Robbins on May 24, 2008 at St. John's Lutheran church in Nashville, Tenn.  (submitted 6/11/2008)   Thomas Oduro, '04, recently had two books published. He wrote "Christ Holy Church International: The Story of an African Instituted Church." (Minneapolis: Lutheran University Press, 2007) and co-authored the recently published  "Music in the Life of the African Church" (Waco, Texas: Baylor University Press, 2008).  (submitted 9/3/2008)   Scott McAnally, '04, and Jennifer McAnally, had a 2nd son, Jacob Connor McAnally, born on February 6, 2009 weighing 8lbs 12oz, 21" long.  Mom, Dad, big brother Stephen, and Jacob are all doing well!  (submitted 2/19/2009)   Paul Finley, '04, has accepted a second call as lead pastor of Lutheran Church of Hope in Westminster, Calif.  He will be installed by Pacifica Synod Bishop Murray Finck on March 15th, 2009.  (submitted 2/25/2009)   Scott McAnally, '04, has accepted and begun a new call as Pastor of the Lutheran Church of Hope in Broomfield, Colo.  He will be formally installed on October 11, 2009.  (submitted 7/18/2009)   Stephanie Coltvet Erdmann, '04, and Paul Erdmann, '05, were married on January 3, 2009 at Gloria Dei Lutheran Church, St. Paul, MN.  Stephanie serves as Associate Pastor at Transfiguration Lutheran Church, Bloomington, MN.  Paul serves as Director of Senior High Youth Ministries at Immanuel Lutheran Church, Eden Prairie, MN.  (submitted 2/11/2009)   Gayle Highness, '03, received her first call to Christ Lutheran Church, Nauvoo, Ill. She was ordained in Fargo, Minn., on June 29 and began serving at the congregation the week of July 7.  (submitted 8/30/2003)   Scott Johnson, '03, received his first call to Peace Lutheran Church in Barrett, Minn.  (submitted 10/21/2003)   Shawn Brandon, '03, received his first call as co-pastor to Baudette Lutheran Parish in Baudette, Minn.  (submitted 10/21/2003)   Jill Bergman, '03, was called to serve as an associate pastor at Hosanna Lutheran Church in Forest Lake and Hugo, Minn.  There she will oversee the senior adult ministry.  (submitted 10/21/2003)   Justin Lind-Ayres, '03, was called to serve as an associate pastor at Pilgrim Lutheran in St. Paul, Minn.  He will work with children, youth and family ministry, visitation, and mission and social concerns.  (submitted 10/21/2003)   Susan K Wright, '03, was ordained in September. She is an associate pastor at First Lutheran Church in St. James, Minn.  (submitted 11/5/2003)   Dawn Alitz, '03, was called to serve as director of children's ministries at Farmington Evangelical, Farmington, Minn. She was consecrated as a diaconal minister in November.  (submitted 11/5/2003)   Deborah Stehlin, '03, was called to serve as faith and life pastor at Shepherd of the Valley Lutheran Church, Apple Valley, Minn. There she will work with children's and youth ministry.  (submitted 11/5/2003)   J.J. Dygert, '03, serves the three congregations of the Northern Light Parish in northeastern North Dakota. He was ordained on July 13 in Bothell, Wash., and began his call on Aug 1.  (submitted 11/15/2003)   Kathy Fullarton, '03, was ordained June 8 in Menomonie, Wis. She began her call as associate pastor at First Lutheran in Hayward on June 1.  (submitted 12/1/2003)   Dorothy Probst's, '03, master of arts Christian Education Ministry thesis, "Worshipping God: Godly Play Joined with Intentional Intergenerational Ministry and the Ensuing Architectural Implications," was requested by The Center for the Theology of Childhood at Christ Church Cathedral in Houston. The thesis is based on Dr. Jerome Berryman's lifelong work with children's spirituality, and the concepts of retired architect Ed Sovik's worship centers.  It focuses on the theological process involved in forming postmodern communities of faith and their discipleship of people and demonstrates the resulting architectural theology needed to meet the needs of contemporary congregational ministry. Dorothy is an architect and is currently involved in a career search within the Minneapolis/St. Paul metropolitan area.  (submitted 1/31/2004)   Lynette Crase, '03, was ordained Dec. 6, 2003. She began her call as associate pastor at Joy Lutheran Church in Parker, Colo. on Dec. 1.  (submitted 2/11/2004)   Erik Sevig, '03, and Amy Sevig, announce the birth of their son, Isak Karl. He was born in March. Sevig serves as a pastor at Ridgeland-Hay River Lutheran Parish in the Northwest Synod of Wisconsin.  (submitted 5/21/2004)   Kyle Fever, '03, and Laura Fever, live in Chicago. Kyle successfully completed his first year in the New Testament doctoral program at Loyola University, Chicago. Laura works for the Childcare Network of Evanston, helping at-risk children. Kyle and Laura are expecting their first child in September!  (submitted 5/24/2004)   Kyle Fever, '03, and Laura Fever, welcomed their daughter, Jaya, into the world on Sept. 17. They are all doing very well. Kyle is in his third semester of the New Testament doctoral program at Loyola University, Chicago. He is also working full-time as daddy, helping Laura in her new full-time position as mommy.  (submitted 10/9/2004)   Kathryn Reid Cutler, '03, married Bilhenry Walker on Jan. 2, 2005 in Stillwater, Minn. Kathryn continues to seek a call to ministry in the Presbyterian Church (USA). Bilhenry is a graduate of Fuller Theological Seminary and a sculptor. The couple live in Milwaukee.  (submitted 3/10/2005)   Robert Smith, '03, is serving a half-time call as pastor of St. John Lutheran in Coryell City, Texas (four miles from the gate to President Bush's "Crawford" ranch) and pursuing graduate studies in religion, politics and society at Baylor University. In January 2006, his first book (co-authored with Charles P. Lutz), Christians and a Land Called Holy: How We Can Foster Justice, Peace and Hope, will be published by Fortress Press. Additionally, Smith will present a paper on Dietrich Bonhoeffer at the annual meeting of the American Academy of Religion in Philadelphia in November.  (submitted 6/3/2005)   Judith Kerr, '03, has completed an MS in Education along with a Graduate Certificate in Online Teaching from Capella University. She will be doing some writing and continue teaching in the Upward Bound Program at Northland College in Ashland, Wis.  (submitted 12/19/2005)   Erik Sevig, '03, and his wife, Amy, announce the birth of their son, Leif Andrew. Leif was born on December 1, 2005.  (submitted 1/5/2006)   Robert O. Smith, '03, co-authored the newly released Christians and a Land Called Holy (Fortress Press) with Charles P. Lutz. Christians and a Land Called Holy provides a clear account of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict and a compelling plea for Christian involvement.  (submitted 2/14/2006)   Kevin Massey, '03, began serving as the assitant director of ELCA Domestic Disaster Response on Dec. 5.  (submitted 3/30/2006)   Erik Sevig, '03, will begin his second call as Associate Pastor at Community of the Cross Lutheran Church in Bloomington, MN on August 15, 2006.  (submitted 7/20/2006)   Kathryn Reid Walker, '03, was ordained as a Minister of Word and Sacrament in the Presbyterian Church (USA) on March 25, 2007. Luther Seminary Professor Steven Paulson preached at the ordination service. Kathy is currently serving at Interim Minister at St. Paul's UCC in Erin, Wis. Kathy and her husband Bilhenry live in Milwaukee, Wis.  (submitted 6/6/2007)   Kyle Fever, '03, and Laura Fever, announce the birth of our second child, a son, named Tate Thomas on June 3, 2007.  His big sister, Jaya, will be 3 in September.  (submitted 8/18/2007)   Robert Smith, '03, and Carrie Smith, On July 1, Robert Smith (2003) began serving ELCA Global Mission as Continental Desk Director for Europe and the Middle East.  (submitted 9/13/2007)   Maria Kay Hurni, '03, was consecrated as a Diaconal Minister in the ELCA on Sept. 30, and installed to serve in that capacity at Abiding Presence Lutheran Church, San Antonio.  The afternoon service at Abiding Presence was attended by members of Abiding Presence, area clergy and several members of Maria's extended family, including Pastor Dan Overbo ('03), Maria's cousin, who preached her consecration sermon.  Pastor Lynn Schudy Ziese ('77) presided over the Consecration and Installation.  (submitted 10/10/2007)   Scott Johnson, '03, has accepted a call at the University Lutheran Center at Iowa State University, Ames, IA.  (submitted 2/4/2008)   Robert Schaefer, '03, married Gretchen Underwood at St. Andrew United Methodist Church, West Lafayette, IN, on Dec. 29, 2007. Gretchen is a Ph.D. candidate in communications at Purdue University. Bob is the pastor of St. John's Lutheran Church in Evansville, WI.  (submitted 7/30/2008)   Ross Murray, '03, accepted a position as the Interim Associate Director at Lutherans Concerned/North America.  (submitted 2/16/2009)   Troy Troftgruben, '03, graduates this May with a Ph.D. in Biblical Studies (New Testament) from Princeton Theological Seminary. Currently he serves as a pastor at Calvary Lutheran church in Grand Forks, ND.  (submitted 4/27/2009)   Troy Troftgruben, '03, of Park River, North Dakota, received the Doctor of Philosophy degree from Princeton Theological Seminary on May 23, 2009.  (submitted 6/11/2009)   Scott Johnson, '03, and Kristin Mooneyham, '03, were married on May 29th at Our Savior's Lutheran Church in Circle Pines, Minn.  (submitted 8/6/2004)   Dan Overbo, '03, and Laura Overbo, '03, celebrated the birth of their son, Kyan James. Kyan was born on Sept. 20, 2004.  They live in Bristol, S.D. and serve congregations in Bristol and Summit, S.D.  (submitted 3/10/2005)   Laura Overbo, '03, and Daniel Overbo, '03, announce the birth of Easton Charles Overbo on December 28, 2006 to Daniel.  Easton is 7 pounds 6 ounces 19 1/2 inches long.  He joins big brother Kyan.  (submitted 1/10/2007)   Scott Johnson, '03, and Kristin Johnson, '03, had a daughter, Ainsley Joy Suzanne Johnson, born on 21 January 2007 in Alexandria, MN.  Scott serves as pastor of Peace Lutheran Church in Barrett, MN and Kristin is Director of Youth & Family Ministry at Shalom Lutheran Church in Alexandria.  Ainsley is our first child.  (submitted 1/25/2007)   Jennifer Hackbarth, '03, and Timothy Hackbarth, '04, announce the birth of their first child, a son, named Ryan Nicholas Hackbarth, born June 28, 2006. Tim is the children's pastor at Lutheran Church of Peace in Maplewood, MN.  (submitted 3/8/2007)   Jon Gallatin, '03, and Tabitha Gallatin, '04, have accepted calls to Gloria Dei Lutheran Church in Neenah, Wis.  (submitted 5/13/2008)   Scott Johnson, '03, and Kristin Johnson (Mooneyham), '03, had a baby girl July 21, 2008- Alanna Sophia Faye Johnson was born at 9:23 A.M.  She was 7lbs 8oz, 21 inches long and warmly welcomed into the world by Mom, Dad and big sister Ainsley.  (submitted 7/21/2008)   Dan Overbo, '03, and Laura (Atyeo) Overbo, '03, welcomed a baby boy, Micah Daniel Overbo, on Wednesday, October 29, 2008. His older brothers are Kyan and Easton. Dan and Laura currently serve at First Lutheran in Volga, SD.  (submitted 11/11/2008)   Scott Johnson, '03, and Kristin (Mooneyham) Johnson, '03, welcomed Alanna Sophia Faye Johnson on July 21.  (submitted 2/27/2009)   Susan Wright, '03, and Jeffrey Engholm, '87, were married Oct. 30, 2004 at Telemarken Lutheran Church in Watertown, S.D. Susan serves as a pastor at First Lutheran Church in St. James, Minn. Jeffrey serves as a synod minister in the Southwestern Minnesota Synod, ELCA. His ministry focus areas are outreach, call process, outdoor ministries, men's ministry, youth ministry and campus ministry.  (submitted 3/10/2005)   Evelyn Weston, '02, and Steven Weston, '93, accepted calls to serve as co-pastors at First Lutheran Church, Renville, Minn. Evelyn was ordained in September 2002.  (submitted 11/21/2002)   Esther Dant, '02, was called to serve as associate pastor for adult discipleship at Gethsemane Lutheran Church, Maplewood, Minn. She resides in Arden Hills, Minn.  (submitted 11/22/2002)   Keith E.O. Holmstad, '02, was called to serve as pastor of Gol Lutheran Church, in Kenyon, Minn. He was ordained in April at St. John's Lutheran Church, Northfield, Minn. He can be reached at keithhomstad@charter.net.  (submitted 11/22/2002)   Daniel and Dawn Spies, '02, were called to serve at Ezekiel Lutheran Church in River Falls, Wis., in September.  (submitted 11/5/2003)   Evelyn Weston, '02, (MA 1991; MDiv 2002), was called to serve as pastor at the Sveadahl Lutheran Parish (East Sveadahl and West Sveadahl Lutheran Churches) in rural St James, Minn., beginning Jan. 14.  (submitted 12/26/2003)   Clint Schnekloth, '02, is currently serving as associate pastor at St. John's Lutheran Church, Oregon, Wis. He recently received a grant from the Center for Theological Inquiry, Princeton, N.J., to participate in its Pastor-Theologians Program, a three year grant program funded by the Lilly Foundation.  (submitted 5/21/2004)   Kris Snyder, '02, and his wife, Randi, announce the birth of their first child, Kjersti Margit. She was born on April 1 at Mercy Hospital in Mason City, Iowa. She will be baptized on July 10 by the Rev. Steven Ullestad, bishop of the Northeastern Iowa Synod, at Grace Lutheran Church in Hanlontown, Iowa, where Kris currently serves as pastor.   (submitted 5/28/2005)   Kris Snyder, '02, accepted a call to serve as pastor at Ossian and Stavanger Lutheran Churches in Ossian, Iowa. He begins his ministry there on Aug. 17.  (submitted 7/20/2005)   Clint Schnekloth, '02, pastor of East Koshkonong Lutheran Church, Cambridge, Wis, invited professor Gregory Walter, '00, of St. Olaf College, to preach at the baptism of his son, Samuel Wendell Schnekloth.  (submitted 2/13/2006)   Ben Ranstrom, '02, earned a Master of Science in nursing from the University of Minnesota last June. He is working as a pediatric nurse practitioner at Hennepin County Medical Center in the newborn nursery and pediatric clinic. He is also an instructor at the U of M's School of Nursing where he enjoys helping students learn to care for children and their families.  (submitted 3/8/2006)   Mike Widner, '02, and his wife, Heidi, announce the birth of their baby girl, Violet. She was born on Feb. 17, 2006.  (submitted 3/29/2006)   Todd Hawkins, '02, and his wife, Heather, welcomed the arrival of their first child, Grace Anne.  She was born on Sept. 20  (submitted 3/30/2006)   Karol Hendricks-McCracken, '02, Rev. Karol Hendricks-McCracken will be installed May 7, 2006 as Northwestern Minnesota Synod Minister of Youth and Family Ministry.  (submitted 4/21/2006)   Clint Schnekloth, '02, pastor at East Koshkonong Lutheran Church, Cambridge, Wisc., recently received a grant from the Siebert Lutheran Foundation to pursue a Doctor of Ministry at Fuller Theological Seminary.  (submitted 3/28/2007)   Jennifer Foy, '02, and Jeff Adair, welcomed the birth of their first son, Charles William Howard Adair on August 23, 2007.  (submitted 10/24/2007)   Clint Schnekloth, '02, announces the birth of his second child, Miriam Amanda Schnekloth, born March 14, 2008.  (submitted 3/23/2008)   Kris Snyder, '02, and Randi Snyder, began work with Waterville Lutheran Church (ELCA) in Waterville, IA with Kris as pastor since December, 2007 and Randi as organist since August, 2008. Visit watervillelutheran.org for updates on us. Kris also works for LSI as a family counselor. We and big sister Kjersti look forward to our Christmas blessing of a baby sister this winter.  (submitted 9/15/2008)   Clint Schnekloth, '02, wrote an article, "Dying and Rising" which appeared in the November 2008 issue of The Lutheran. His article on the "Daily Office" will appear in the April 2009 issue. Schnekloth serves as pastor at East Koshkonong Lutheran Church, Cambridge, WI, and is a a doctor of ministry candidate at Fuller Theological Seminary.  (submitted 1/15/2009)   Coral Rose, '02, has joined the Lutheran Church Missouri Synod World Mission team and will be sent to Pretoria, South Africa to serve as regional business manager.  Her duties will include traveling throughout the continent of Africa and supporting the work of missionaries, partner churches and mission projects, especially in Guinea, Kenya, Nigeria, Sierra Leone, Togo and Uganda. For more information on the Lutheran Church Missouri Synod World Missions, visit www.lcmsworldmission.org.  (submitted 7/31/2009)   Jason Bazzle, '02, has been appointed Director of Music at St. Luke's Lutheran Church in Summerville, S.C. He formerly served seven years as Director of Music at Bethel United Methodist Church in Walterboro, S.C.  (submitted 11/4/2009)   Jeannine Brown, '02, has been elected to The Committee on Bible Translation (CBT) and will immediately join the ongoing translation work of the CBT, including their work on the previously announced update of the New International Version (NIV) Bible, slated for publication in 2011. Dr. Jeannine Brown is Professor of New Testament at Bethel Seminary in St. Paul, Minnesota. She received a Master of Divinity from Bethel and her Ph.D. from Luther Seminary. She has written several articles and a book on hermeneutics.  (submitted 11/9/2009)   Joel Wight Hoogheem, '02, and Karen Wight Hoogheem, '02, celegrated the birth of their daughter, Hannah Irene on July 27. In addition to being new parents, they recently accepted calls to serve as pastors at Bethesda Lutheran Church in Ames, Iowa. Joel will serve as the pastor for discipleship, evangelism and outreach. Karen will serve as the pastor for spiritual care and prayer and visitation. They will begin their new calls on April 1.  (submitted 3/20/2006)   Heidi Binstock, '01, was called to serve as an associate pastor at Christ the King Lutheran Church in White Bear Lake, Minn. Her ministry will focus on youth and education. She was ordained in July at Emmanuel Lutheran Church, Beresford, S.D. She and her husband, Greg, live in White Bear Lake.  (submitted 4/15/2002)   Paula Boat, '01, was called to serve as associate pastor at Abiding Savior Lutheran Church in Mounds View, Minn. Her ministry will focus on youth and family. She was ordained in June at Lutheran Church of the Cross in Altoona, Iowa. She and her husband, Patrick, live in St. Paul.  (submitted 4/15/2002)   Thomas Glasoe, '01, accepted a call to St. John's Evangelical Lutheran Church in Girard, Pa. He was ordained in January at Bethlehem Lutheran Church in south Minneapolis.  (submitted 4/15/2002)   Jennifer Rome, '01, was called to serve as associate pastor at Mount Calvary Lutheran Church, Egan, Minn. Her ministry will focus on youth and family ministry. She was ordained in September. She and her husband, Zachary Wilson, reside in St. Paul.  (submitted 4/15/2002)   Marc Hander, '01, is a member of the team that developed In for a Hike, a new curriculum that aims to help young people, grades six to nine and higher, discern God's leading in their lives. The resource was developed by the Minneapolis Area Synod for use as a five-week Sunday school or confirmation curriculum. Hiking is the metaphor; each week's topic moves participants along the trail. Emily Hegener Rova, '99, is a member of the team that developed In for a Hike.  (submitted 5/13/2002)   Joel Samuelson, '01, was ordained at Peace Lutheran Church, New London, Minn. in November. He began his pastoral ministry at House of Prayer Lutheran Church in Bismarck, N.D. in December.  (submitted 6/14/2002)   Marc Hander, '01, was ordained on February 17, 2001, at his home congregation in Thrall, Texas, at St. John's Lutheran Church.  He and his wife, Jerilyn (Dunlap), '99, live in Greenville, Texas, where Marc is pastor at Redeemer Lutheran Church.  Jerilyn is a claims analyst with Trust Services, Inc. in Greenville, Texas.  They are expecting their first child in November 2002.  (submitted 6/25/2002)   Karl Hestor, '01, serves as an associate pastor at Bethlehem Lutheran Church in Aberdeen, S.D. Part of his ministry includes youth and family ministry. He was ordained in July 2001 at his Youth Leadership site, Mount Calvary Lutheran Church in Eagan, Minn. His e-mail address is khester@aol.com.  (submitted 11/21/2002)   Marc Hander, '01, and his wife Jerilyn (Dunlap) Hander, '99, expect the birth of their first child in November. Marc is pastor of Redeemer Lutheran Church in Greenville, Texas. He was ordained in February 2001 at St. John's Lutheran Church, Thrall, Texas. Jerilyn is a claims analyst with Trust Services Inc., in Greenville.  (submitted 11/21/2002)   Sonja (Gall) Pancoast, '01, was called to serve as pastor of St. Bartholomew Lutheran Church in Trenton, N.J. She was ordained in September 2001 at Augustana Lutheran Church in Denver. She and her husband, Joel, reside in Trenton.  (submitted 11/22/2002)   Jeanne Markquart, '01, was called to serve as associate pastor at Incarnation Lutheran in North Oaks, Minn.  There she works with confirmation ministry, pastoral care and mission outreach.  She lives in St. Anthony Park, Minn.  (submitted 2/3/2003)   Matt Powell, '01, is pastor at St. Paul Lutheran Church in Baltimore, M.D.  He was featured in a Baltimore Sun news article for his work in reviving the life of the congregation through developing creative programs that open the church up to the community.  (submitted 2/3/2003)   Jillene Fritch-Gallitan, '01, was called to serve as associate pastor at Elim Lutheran in Scandia, Minn. She and her husband, Peter, live in Scandia and have two children.  (submitted 6/26/2003)   Jennifer (Krueger) Larson, '01, works at the Southwestern Washington Synod of the ELCA. She serves on the synod's outreach board and is chair of ministry of ethnic diversity, an anti-racism training resource for congregations.  (submitted 6/26/2003)   Eric Nelson, '01, and his wife, Ann, celebrated the birth of their first son, Ambrose last June. While awaiting a call, he works as a technical writer for a security access company in southeastern Wisconsin. He can be reached by e-mail at eric.nelson@securityint.com.  (submitted 6/26/2003)   Dean Smith, '01, and his wife, Bridget, celebrated the birth of their first child in February. Dean is pastor of youth and families at Trinity Lutheran Church in Owatonna, Minn. He was ordained in Chicago in December 2001. Following ordination, he served as an associate pastor at Good Shepherd in Palos Heights, Ill. until October 2002.  (submitted 6/26/2003)   Allison Nahr, '01, and Andreas Nahr celebrated the birth of their daughter on Sept. 7, 2003. Allison serves as director of Youth and Young Adult Ministries at Lewinsville Presbyterian Church in McLean, Va.  (submitted 11/24/2003)   Dennis Sanders, '01, was ordained a minister in the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) on Sept.8, 2002 at First Christian Church in Minneapolis. He was installed as parish associate at Lake Harriet Christian Church in Minneapolis on May 23.  (submitted 5/22/2004)   Dean Smith, '01, and Bridget Smith, announce the birth of their second child, David Joseph. He was born on Sept. 6, 2004. They have a daughter, Cheryl Katherine, who was born on Feb. 19, 2003. Dean is pastor to youth and families at Trinity Lutheran Church in Owatonna, Minn.  (submitted 9/27/2004)   Shana Ellwood Tischaefer, '01, and Andrew Tischaefer, welcomed their first child, Samuel Thomas, on June 21, 2004. Shana and Andrew currently reside in Sammamish, Wash., where Andy is a software test lead at Microsoft. Shana is serving her new calling as a stay at home mom.  (submitted 11/4/2004)   Michael Stadtmueller, '01, and his wife, Carrie, announce the birth of their first child, Gabriel Dean. Gabriel was born Oct. 4, 2004. Michael is in his third year as associate pastor at Our Saviour's Lutheran Church in Fort Collins, Colo.  (submitted 1/5/2005)   Michael Short, '01, and Debbie, has accepted a new call as Sr. Pastor of First English Lutheran Church in Platteville, WI.  New address: 1230 Stans Court, Platteville, WI 53818 Home phone: 608-348-2320  Email:  pastormjshort@hotmail.com First English Lutheran Church 215 W. Pine St. Platteville, WI 53818 phone: 608-348-3022 email: felcpastor@centurytel.net website: www.felcplatteville.org  (submitted 9/28/2006)   Jennifer Krueger, '01, recently returned from China where she worked with volunteers to teach conversational English to Chinese teachers and middle school students. For three weeks, Jennifer traveled to several villages in the Henan Province interviewing teachers to gain perspective on their life and teaching situation. Focusing on developing oral English skills, thirty volunteers from Minnesota, Wisconsin, Michigan, California, Washington, and Colorado led activities ranging from an American birthday party and playing baseball to discussing US holidays and the 2008 Beijing Olympics.  (submitted 8/22/2007)   Dean Smith, '01, and Bridget Smith, associate pastor of Youth and Families at Trinity Lutheran Church in Owatonna, Minn. welcomed Tanner to their family in May 2007. Tanner joins   Cheryl (born in February 2003), David (born in September 2004).  (submitted 10/12/2007)   Carla Ingebretsen, '01, Carla Ingebretsen and Todd Johnsen were married July 14, 2007.  Congratulations Todd and Carla Johnsen!  (submitted 3/7/2008)   Jennie English, '01, has accepted and begun a new call as the pastor at Bethlehem Evangelical Lutheran Church in Chicago, IL.  (submitted 7/21/2008)   Joanne Otte, '01, married Jason Millet on Saturday, October 18th. Joanne is now a diaconal minister called as Program Director of Lutheran Volunteer Corps.  (submitted 12/2/2008)   Karl Hester, '01, has been serving as an associate pastor at Resurrection Lutheran Church in Portland, Oregon since November 2007.  The call has an emphasis on youth and family ministry.  Also, Karl and Sue have divorced which became effective in February of 2009.  Nick and Natalie will share time between both of their loving parents.  (submitted 2/23/2009)   Melinda Melhus, '01, has accepted a new call to serve as associate pastor at Our Savior's Lutheran Church in West Salem, Wisc. She previously served as pastor at Ostmark Lutheran Church in Watkins, Minn.  A complete news article regarding her call can be found online at www.couleenews.com/articles/2009/10/08/features/00apastor.txt  (submitted 10/19/2009)   Elizabeth Eide, '01, has accepted a call to serve as one of the three pastors at King of Kings Lutheran Church in Woodbury, Minn.  She formerly served as solo pastor at St. James Lutheran Church in Barrington, R.I. for the last seven years.  Elizabeth, along with her husband Nick, and their twins Jackson and Sophia, are excited to be back in the Midwest, close to family and friends.  (submitted 10/19/2009)   Jennifer Larson, '01, and Kurt Larson, '00, Jennifer recently accepted a call to diaconal ministry with China Service Ventures. She will serve as the administrator to this not-for-profit group, which was founded in 2001. It is committed to fostering mutually enriching relationships between Christians in North America with communities in China. For more, log on to: www.csventures.org  (submitted 7/11/2006)   Marc Hander, '01, and Jerilyn (Dunlap) Hander, '99, announced the birth of their son, Gabriel Marc, born in November. Marc is pastor of Redeemer Lutheran Church in Greenville, Texas. In February 2003, he celebrated the second anniversary of his ordination and call. Jerilyn works part-time as a data control technician with Trust Services Inc., in Greenville.  (submitted 6/26/2003)   Nestor Joel Rova-Hegener, '01, and Emily Rova-Hegener, '99, announce the birth of their first child, Nestor Nils, born on March 12 2004, his dad's birthday! Emily and Joel serve as co-associate pastors at Silverdale Lutheran church in Silverdale, Wash.  (submitted 6/24/2004)   Marc Hander, '01, and Jerilyn (Dunlap) Hander, '99, and their son, Gabriel, celebrated the birth of Selah Grace Hander on July 20, 2004. Marc is in his fourth year as pastor of Redeemer Lutheran Church in Greenville, Texas. Jerilyn continues her work as a part-time data control technician for Trust Services, Inc.  (submitted 10/22/2004)   Nestor Joel Rova-Hegener, '01, and Emily Rova-Hegener, '99, are excited to announce the blessing of a second son, Johan Matti born on July 18th, 2006.  Older brother Nestor Nils welcomed him (kinda) home and can't wait for him to "grow and play with trucks." Emily and Joel are also accepting new calls as Co-Pastors of United in Christ Lutheran in Eveleth, MN in September, 2006.  (submitted 8/2/2006)   Anne L. Andert, '00, was elected to serve on the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America's Division for Ministry board this past August at the ELCA churchwide assembly in Chicago.  (submitted 4/15/2002)   Erin Bents, '00, was called to serve as pastor of outreach at Christ the King Lutheran Church, New Brighton, Minn. She was ordained in August at Roseville Lutheran church, Roseville, Minn. She lives in St. Anthony.  (submitted 4/15/2002)   Chris Enstad, '00, was ordained in March. He serves as pastor of youth and young adults at Normandale Lutheran Church, Edina, Minn. He and his wife, Carolyn, live in Minnetonka, Minn.  (submitted 4/15/2002)   Sunitha Mortha, '00, was one of the keynote presenters at the Youth Extravaganza hosted by the ELCA Youth Network, Jan. 30-Feb. 2.  She is the director of international music ministry bands at Youth Encounter, Minneapolis.  (submitted 2/3/2003)   Matt Hausken, '00, and his wife, Sarah, celebrated the birth of their first child, Leif John, in May. Matt serves as pastor at Cross of Calvary Lutheran Church in Olivia, Minn.  (submitted 8/30/2003)   Carrie Grev, '00, received The Horizon Award from Augustana College in Sioux Falls, S.D. The award is given to recent graduates who have quickly excelled in their career. Grev is an ELCA missionary in Hong Kong and has developed a Friday lunch ministry program and an English gospel camp. She also teaches workshops, provides music and worship experiences, develops opportunities for ministry exchange between the U.S. and Hong Kong, hosts guests as a representative of the church, and plans events. She was honored at the Augustana Viking Days alumni banquet in October.  (submitted 10/21/2003)   Kathleen (Urquhart) Lowery, '00, accepted a call to Stordahl Lutheran in rural Zumbrota, Minn. This is her first call. She was ordained June 1 at Zumbro Lutheran in Rochester, Minn.  (submitted 11/20/2003)   Amy Swanson, '00, accepted a second call to serve as Associate Pastor of Christ the King Lutheran Church in South Bend, Ind., in January 2004. She will be installed on Feb. 22. Jennifer Jelinek, '00, will be the guest preacher at the service.   (submitted 2/17/2004)   Paul Tjostem, '00, was recently recognized by the United Methodist Church communications team for his work in developing a rural after-school computer ministry program called, Kingdom Kids Computer club. Tjostem is an ELCA pastor in Steele, N.D. He partnered with the pastor from the Steele UMC to develop a cooperative rural youth ministry program. This unique rural youth ministry program helps train youth in computer skills, as well as basic Bible and Christian education. www.umtv.org/newitems/free_computers_for_kids.htm; and www.umtv.org/newitems/kids_teach_seniors_skills.htm  (submitted 10/25/2004)   Tammy L. Devine, '00, is the new wellness coordinator for the ELCA's Board of Pensions. Prior to joining the Board of Pensions, Devine served as director of wellness at Martin Luther Manor in Bloomington, Minn. She has also served as the organization's director of health and community ministries and parish nurse coordinator, and as director of nursing for Southern Metro Medical Clinics in Belle Plaine, Minn.  (submitted 11/4/2004)   Joan Conroy, '00, was called to serve as pastor developer of the new Woyatan Multicultural Ministry in Rapid City, S.D.  (submitted 3/10/2005)   Sunitha Mortha, '00, started working as the associate director for global events and mission interpretation at the ELCA church wide office in the Division for Global Mission on June 1.  (submitted 10/28/2005)   Amy Zalk Larson, '00, joined the pastoral staff at Luther College in 2005. She facilitates college Sunday worship, runs the Luther College DIAKONOS program and manages the campus ministry newsletter. Her husband, Matt Larson ('00) is currently deployed as a chaplain in the Minnesota National Guard.  (submitted 2/13/2006)   Amy Meyer, '00, Amy Swanson ('00) and Jon Meyer were married on May 27, 2006 at Christ the King Lutheran Church in South Bend, IN, where Amy's been serving as associate pastor for two years.  (submitted 6/6/2006)   Laurie (Johnson) Arroyo, '00, traveled to China on September 18, 2006, to welcome Elianna Mei-Zhen Arroyo into our family.  Our daughter was born 12/10/05 in the Jiangxi province of China.  She was baptized on her 1st birthday. After a 4 month family leave of absence, Laurie returned to her half-time call in January 2007, at St. Timothy Lutheran Church and Schools, Lakewood, CA, with Elianna right down the hall from her office in infant care.  (submitted 1/23/2007)   Amy (Swanson) Meyer, '00, and her husband Jon welcomed a son, Joseph into their family on February 26, 2007.  (submitted 4/3/2007)   Laurie Arroyo, '00, has been selected for the position of Assistant to the Bishop, Southwest California Synod, for Lay Mission Leadership. Arroyo, who currently serves as Associate Pastor at St. Timothy, Lakewood, Calif., will join the staff on September 1, 2008. She is well known to many from her years of service on the Southwest California Synod. There will be a Service of Installation for Pastor Laurie Arroyo on Sat., Sept. 6, 3:00 p.m., at St. Stephen's Lutheran Church, 15950 Chatsworth Street, Granada Hills, Calif.   (submitted 6/20/2008)   Lace Williams-Tinajero, '00, graduated on June 14, 2008 with her Ph.D. in Theology (New Testament and Systematic Theology)from Fuller Theological Seminary, Pasadena, Calif. Currently, she teaches in the Religious Studies department at Gonzaga University, Spokane, Wash. Lace and her husband, Tito, currently reside in Spokane Valley.  (submitted 8/21/2008)   Chad Christensen, '00, accepted a call to serve as pastor of Vermont Lutheran Church, Black Earth, Wis. and began serving there on Jan. 15, 2009.  He is the first pastor to serve full-time at Vermont in their 153-year history.  (submitted 3/15/2009)   Chris Enstad, '00, welcomed their second daughter, Berit Elizabeth, on Dec. 9, 2007.  Chris also published an article entitled "A Primer on the Emerging Church" in the Easter 2009 issue of Lutheran Forum.  (submitted 6/9/2009)   Chris Enstad, '00, began a new call as Pastor of Faith Formation at Mt. Olivet Lutheran Church of Plymouth, Minn. in March of 2009.  (submitted 6/9/2009)   Emily Helin Olson, '00, is serving as the Music Director in a new church start with the Pennsylvania Southeast Conference of the United Church of Christ.  Her husband, Bryan, is a 2005 Master of Divinity graduate of United Theological Seminary of the Twin Cities, and was called in December 2008 to pastor a new young adult-focused church community outside of Philadelphia.  Emily and Bryan were married in April 2007 in Cottage Grove, Minn., and formerly served together at Cottage Grove United Church of Christ.  (submitted 6/25/2009)   John Jahr, '00, has been appointed choral music director of the West Central Singers in Willmar, Minn.  He currently serves as director of worship and music at Vinje Lutheran Church in Willmar, where he directs several choirs and serves as organist.  (submitted 9/14/2009)   Anne Andert, '00, and David Andert, '74, have been serving together full time at Our Redeemer's Lutheran Church in Benson, Minn. Anne is currently serving on the ELCA Division for Ministry Board of Directors, Luther Seminary Board of Directors, and SW MN Synod Advisory Board for Pastor to Pastor Initiative. They have three college-age daughters.  (submitted 5/21/2004)   Jennifer Jelinek, '00, and Erik Jelinek, '97, in September welcomed their second child, Scarlett Deborah, who joins big sister Sierra, now 4. Erik & Jennifer serve as co-pastors at Our Savior's Lutheran Church in Beloit, WI.  (submitted 11/9/2008)

The 90s - back to the top

Emily Hegener Rova, '99, wrote and published In for a Hike, a new curriculum that aims to help young people, grades six to nine and higher, discern God's leading in their lives. The resource was developed by the Minneapolis Area Synod for use as a five-week Sunday school or confirmation curriculum. Hiking is the metaphor; each week's topic moves participants along the trail. Marc Hander, '01, is a member of the team that developed In for a Hike.  (submitted 4/15/2002)   Paul Lutter, '99, will present his paper, "The Word of the Lord (Alone) Remains Forever? The Problem of Scriptural Authority in the Theology of Robert W. Jenson" at the Future of Lutheran Theology Conference in Aarhus, Denmark, January 2003. He also published an article, "The Book of Concord and the Parish" in the Spring 2001 issue of dialog. His article, "God Will Get You for That," ran in the January 2001 issue of The Lutheran magazine. Currently, Paul is a pastor at Wayne State College in Wayne, Neb., and serves on the Nebraska Synod Sexuality Task Force. The task force will tour the synod February 2003 and help congregations and pastors consider the authority and normativity of Scripture for use in moral deliberation. He can be contacted at luther1529@hotmail.com.  (submitted 11/21/2002)   Martin and Melinda Halom, '99, expect the birth of their second child in August. Nicholas, their first child, is currently 20 months old. Melinda serves as associate pastor at the Lutheran Church of Mahomet in Mahomet, Ill. Martin serves as associate pastor at American Lutheran Church in Rantoul, Ill. Both churches are seeking senior pastors. Martin and Melinda live in Champaign, Ill.  (submitted 6/26/2003)   Stephanie Swanson, '99, and husband, Charles, celebrated the birth of Sophia Ruth Swanson on May 1, 2003. Sophia was received into the Lord's family through baptism on June 1, 2003. Stephanie serves as associate pastor at St. John Lutheran Church in Madison, S.D.  (submitted 11/24/2003)   Gissela Varinia Blanco, '99, Gissela Varinia Blanco-Espinosa accepted a new call to serve as pastor/ developer to a new Latino congregation in Phoenix. She named the new congregation "Iglesia Luterana Vida Nueva"(New Life Lutheran Church). She and her husband, Isidro, (a seminary student) are excited about this new journey of faith. They moved from Dallas at the end of October to start in Phoenix Nov. 1.  (submitted 11/29/2003)   Kris Cox, '99, after the events of 9-11, was mobilized to active duty service as an Air Force chaplain. He remains on active duty and is currently stationed in the Colorado Springs area.  (submitted 12/7/2003)   Trisha (Hanson) Boese, '99, will return to Luther Seminary to earn a master of divinity degree with emphasis in youth and family ministry. Her husband, Kyle, two cats and a house remain in Sioux Falls during this pursuit. He owns a computer business. She writes: "Fortunately, his love and support go with me - especially during summer Greek!"  (submitted 4/1/2004)   Matthew Lee, '99, and his wife, Laura, announce the birth of their second daughter, Elizabeth Hannah. She was born on December 9, 2003. Her older sister, Catherine, will be three in January. Matthew serves as pastor at First Lutheran Church in Prentice, Wis., and Zion Lutheran Church in Brantwood, Wis.  (submitted 8/6/2004)   Scott Hagen, '99, was deployed to Afghanistan in May 2004. He serves as a chaplain with the 367th Engineer Battalion, a unit of the US Army Reserve. He is at Bagram Air Base, north of Kabul. There he serves his unit and provides coverage for other units without chaplains on the base. This May he will return home and to his position as associate pastor at Our Savior's Lutheran Church in Faribault, Minn.  (submitted 3/10/2005)   Katy McCallum, '99, and Brian Sachse were married Nov. 13, 2004, at St. Mark's Lutheran Church in Spokane, Wash. Brian is a teacher and coach at Ferris High School in Spokane; Katy is the lead pastor at Trinity Lutheran Church in Coeur d'Alene, Idaho.  They are living in Spokane. Katy is commuting the half-hour to Coeur d'Alene. A number of seminary alums were part of the wedding, including Liz Hanley, '99, Laura Duffee, '99, Lori Morton, '99, and Karl and Anjanette Rist, '99.  (submitted 3/10/2005)   Brian Mundt, '99, married Mary Sage (nee Gisselquist) on June 12, 2005, at Gloria Dei Lutheran Church, St. Paul Minn. Karna Baseman Stark, '99, presided. Brian has been serving as intentional interim pastor at Our Redeemer Lutheran Church in St. Paul since August.  (submitted 9/21/2005)   Kurt Jensen, '99, accepted a call to serve at Evangelical Lutheran Church, East Jordan, Mich., on May 1. Previously he served there on a pastoral appointment since November 2004. On July 30, he married Sarah Faust of Suttons Bay, Mich.  Sarah works at an insurance agency in Boyne City, Mich. Kurt and Sarah and their black Lab, Bogie, live in East Jordan.  (submitted 10/26/2005)   Paul Lutter, '99, recently reviewed Bonhoeffer and King: Speaking Truth to Power , by J. Deotis Roberts (Westminster John Knox Press, 2005), for the Sept/Oct.issue of Sojourners magazine.  His next book review will be published in a forth coming issue of Word & World, and he has reviews pending for Currents in Theology and Mission and dialog.  (submitted 10/28/2005)   Louisa Fure, '99, died in an automobile accident on Dec. 3. Louia received a Bachelors of Arts in Music from Augsburg College in 1974. She taught music in Albert Lea and served as the Choir Director at First Lutheran Chruch, Albert Lea for 17 years. She graduated from Luther Seminary and was ordained June 20, 1999 and served as associate pastor at Trinity Lutheran Church, Owatonna from her ordination until the present. Rev. Fure is survived by her husband, John.  (submitted 2/13/2006)   Grady St. Dennis, '99, The Rev. Grady St. Dennis who has been a pastor at Mount Olivet Lutheran Church in Minneapolis since 1999, has been named director of church relations at Gustavus. In his new position, St. Dennis will lead the college's relationship with the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America (ELCA) and its congregations, particularly those in the Gustavus Adolphus College Association of Congregations. St. Dennis is married with two children and lives in Edina. He will begin his duties Feb. 19, 2007.  (submitted 1/9/2007)   Eric Berg, '99, professor of philosophy at MacMurray College, was presented the 2007 Dewey E. Wilkins Award for Excellence in Teaching during the College's 156th commencement Saturday, May 5.  (submitted 7/3/2007)   Evelyn Dahlke, '99, recently published the book BUTTERFLY SONG:  A Battered Woman's Journey Back Into Life.  In it she explores her journey into, through, and out of her abusive marriage from a Christian woman's perspective.  Dahlke is currently a pastor at Northeast Community Lutheran Church in Minneapolis, MN  (submitted 8/6/2007)   Laura Duffee, '99, accepted a call at Christus Victor Lutheran Church in Apple Valley, Minn.  Laura was installed on Oct. 21st as Associate Pastor of Children and Family Ministries and Adult Education.  (submitted 11/1/2007)   Carly Nelson, '99, has received recognition as the co-founder of "Angels of Courage." Carly is a two-time cancer survivor who also battles lupus.  She has created "Angels of Courage" to assist those who are battling illness and disease.  (submitted 11/28/2007)   Katy McCallum Sachse, '99, accepted a call at Holy Spirit Lutheran Church in Kirkland, Washington.  She was installed as Associate Pastor on April 6, 2008.  (submitted 5/2/2008)   Curtis Matson, '99, after completing a residency with Luther-Midelfort Hospital, a Mayo Health system hospital in Eau Claire, Wis., is the head of Chaplaincy for a Good Samaritan Society Nursing Home in Sioux Falls, S.D. Curtis has been with the Good Samaritan Society since 2005. Curtis is very happy in his work and is happy to be back in South Dakota.  (submitted 11/7/2008)   Karl Rist, '99, and Anjanette Rist, '99, were guest speakers at the Church Youth Fest, hosted by Luther College, Decorah, Iowa, in November. Karl and Anjanette are pastors of First Lutheran Church in Fremont, Neb.  (submitted 11/21/2002)   Melinda Halom, '99, and Martin Halom, '99, announce the birth of their second child Jaden Richard on August 5 2003. Nicholas, their first child, will be three in June. Martin and Melinda received new calls to University Lutheran Church in East Lansing, Mich., where they serve together as associate pastors.  (submitted 5/21/2004)   Anjanette Rist, '99, and Karl Rist, '99, announce the birth of their second child, Karl Frederick Rist V ("Erick") on September 9, 2004. Sela, their first child, turned three in April 2004. Karl and Anjanette serve together as associate pastors at First Lutheran in Freemont, Neb.  (submitted 11/4/2004)   Martin Halom, '99, and Melinda Halom, '99, have served at University Lutheran Church in East Lansing, Mich., since December 2003. They gave birth to their third son, Dylan Edwin, on Feb. 14.  Dylan joins brothers Nicholas (three years old) and Jaden (21 months old).  Melinda serves quarter-time along with Martin at full-time.  (submitted 5/12/2005)   Cynthia Keyser, '99, and Eric Rothgery, '97, welcomed their third son, Levi, into the world on January 7, 2009.  Levi has two older brothers, Jonah and Micah.  (submitted 4/5/2009)   Dan Anderson, '98, accepted a call to serve as pastor of adult ministry at Prince of Peace Lutheran Church, Burnsville, Minn. He previously served at Resurrection Lutheran Church in Portland, Ore. He lives in Apple Valley, Minn., with his wife, Lisa, and daughter, Alexis.  (submitted 11/22/2002)   Shauna Hannan, '98, was elected by the ELCA Church Council to serve on the ELCA Division for Global Mission board.  (submitted 2/3/2003)   Kimberly Leetch, '98, and her husband, Jeremy, announce the birth of their third child, Megan Elizabeth, on March 23, 2004. Megan has two brothers, Josh, age 7, and Luke, age 5. Kimberly serves as an associate pastor at Augustana Lutheran Church in West St. Paul, Minn.  (submitted 7/26/2004)   Karl Redelsheimer, '98, married Kimberly Aay on May 10, 2003. Their son, Samuel Hendrik Redelsheimer was born on Feb. 23, 2005.  (submitted 3/31/2005)   James Lindberg, '98, and his wife, Lori, proudly announce the birth of their first son, Noah James. He was born April 20, 2005 at 6:32 p.m. at St. Elizabeth Regional Medical Center in Lincoln, Neb. Noah weighed six pounds and five ounces and was 20 1/2 inches long. Despite having to adjust to a lack of sleep, James and Lori are doing well, as is Noah. James is pastor of First Lutheran Church in Avoca, Neb.  (submitted 5/4/2005)   Matthew Marohl, '98, recently earned a Ph.D. in biblical studies/New Testament from the University of St. Andrews in Scotland. In 2002, he received a master of theology from the Lutheran School of Theology at Chicago.  (submitted 10/1/2005)   Mark Hasty, '98, and his wife, Paula, welcomed a daughter, Alyson Beth, on Dec. 26. Alyson joins sisters, Hailee and Serena. Mark and Paula live in West Bend, Wis. Mark serves as pastor of Zion Lutheran Church in Horicon, Wis.  (submitted 4/14/2006)   Kathleen Armstrong (Hesterberg), '98, received a new call to Cross of Christ Lutheran in Broomfield, Colorado.  Kathleen moved from Northeast, Iowa where she served in Frederika, Iowa and Waverly, Iowa. She has two boys, Brune who is 4 years old and Kaden who is 2 years old. Her husband Tim is a middle school spanish teacher.  (submitted 8/2/2006)   Karl Redelsheimer, '98, and Kimberly Redelsheimer, are happy to announce the birth of our twins, Micah and Anna Redelsheimer, born on July 5, 2006.  Karl is pastor of Pilgrim Lutheran Church and School on the north side of Chicago.  (submitted 8/17/2006)   P.J. SOUTHAM, '98, is the author of The Presbyterian Heritage Daily Devotional:  Selections from the Confessions for Each Day of the Year, a newly published daily devotional for Presbyterians and other Christians.  It can be purchased from Amazon.com or through your local bookstore.  P. J. is the pastor of the Big Creek Presbyterian Church near Hannibal, Missouri.  He is also the compiler of A Scriptural Index to the Book of Confessions, Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.),  as well as the author of the article How to Speak Presbyterian, one of the most widely reprinted articles from Presbyterians Today magazine.  (submitted 12/22/2006)   Tessa Moon Leiseth, '98, has been called to join the Campus Ministry staff at Concordia College, Moorhead, Minn. She is a 1992 grad of Concordia College.  (submitted 5/6/2008)   Shauna Hannan, '98, joined the faculty of Lutheran Theological Southern Seminary as the homiletics professor.  (submitted 9/3/2008)   Naomi Mahler, '98, and Todd Lynum, '98, announce the birth of their twin daughters, Sofia Jayne and Grace LaRia born on May 18, 2004 in Willmar, Minn.  Naomi serves at Iglesia Luterana Paz y Esperanza in Willmar, Minn. Todd serves at Svea Lutheran Church in Svea, Minn.  (submitted 8/27/2004)   Richard Baumann, '97, was called to serve as associate pastor with a focus on Christian education, youth and family ministry, and small group ministry. Previously, he served as pastor at St. Paul's Lutheran in northeast Minneapolis. He and his wife live in White Bear Lake. They have two adult children.  (submitted 4/15/2002)   Judy Swanberg, '97, began her service as superintendent to the East Coast Conference of the Evangelical Covenant Church in December. Previously, she served as an interim and itinerant pastor in the Church's Northwest Conference. She was ordained in June 2000 at the annual meeting of the Evangelical Covenant Church in St. Paul, Minn.  (submitted 4/15/2002)   Melanie Lichtenberg, '97, was called to serve as an associate pastor at Newport Lutheran, Newport, Minn. Previously she served as director of Community of Hope, an ecumenical outreach program with the deaf in Grove Heights, Minn. She, her husband Steve, and infant son, Luke, live in West St. Paul, Minn.  (submitted 6/14/2002)   Julie Rogness, '97, was called to serve as associate pastor at St. James Lutheran Church, Burnsville, Minn. Previously, she served as associate pastor at Bethel Lutheran in Rochester, Minn. She and her husband, Dan, have two children, Nathan and Jenna.  (submitted 6/14/2002)   Jeffrey Iverson, '97, was appointed editor of Tischreden: A Newsletter and Theological Forum for Pastors of the LMS-USA. He was chosen by the Ministerium of the Lutheran Ministerium and Synod-USA at its annual convention in Indianapolis in June 2003. He is pastor of Word of God Lutheran Church in Brooklyn Park, Minn.  (submitted 8/30/2003)   Jason Talsness, '97, was called to serve as pastor at Amazing Grace Lutheran Church in Lawrenceville, Ga., a suburb of Atlanta. He still keeps a snowshovel in his garage and can be reached by email at amazinggracerev@yahoo.com.  (submitted 11/5/2003)   Michelle Simonson, '97, was called to serve as pastor of family ministry and spiritual life at Prince of Peace Lutheran Church, Burnsville, Minn.  (submitted 11/5/2003)   Stephen Hultgren, '97, is an assistant professor of theology at Fordham University, Bronx, N.Y. He was ordained on Sept. 19, 2004, and called to parish ministry by the Metropolitan New York Synod of the ELCA. He lives in Mt. Vernon, N.Y.  (submitted 10/4/2004)   Kristen Anderson, '97, accepted a call to serve as associate pastor at Salem Lutheran Church in St. Cloud, Minn. Previously, she served at First-Grace Lutheran Parish, Jeffersonville, N.Y. for seven years.  (submitted 2/9/2005)   Gail Nord Ginsburg, '97, was recently named Adjunct Faculty in the Department of Philosophy at Oakton College, suburban Chicago. She makes her home in Evanston, IL, along with her husband, Rabbi Jonathan Ginsburg.  (submitted 7/11/2006)   Paul Gao, '97, (Gao Feng) was recently elected as the Chairman of the China Christian Council. This is the top position in the officially sanctioned church in China.  (submitted 2/5/2008)   Blake Rohrer, '97, has accepted a call as assistant to the bishop of the South Central Synod of Wisconsin.  (submitted 5/14/2008)   Deanna Wildermuth, '97, will be installed as the new pastor at Holy Trinity Lutheran Church in Mercer Island, Wash., during a special service on Sunday, Sept. 27, 2009 at 3 p.m. She most recently served as pastor at Sharon Lutheran Church in Grand Forks, N.D. Wildermuth also served as associate pastor at Saint Luke's Church in Bellevue, Wash., as well as other positions in Minnesota, Wisconsin, and North Dakota.  She is married to Keith, her husband of 25 years.  They have two grown sons, Alan and Daniel.  (submitted 9/24/2009)   Scott Johnson, '97, and Heather Roth Johnson, '96, celebrated the birth of a baby boy, Noah Lorne Johnson, on October 7, 2000. They both serve as missionaries to Madagascar.  (submitted 4/12/2002)   Blake Rohrer, '97, and Katie Baardseth, '97, gave birth to their daughter, Kristina Elizabeth in June. In January, Blake and Katie accepted calls to lead congregations in Madison, Wis. Blake serves at Midvale Community Lutheran Church, and Katie serves at Bethel Lutheran Church.  (submitted 11/22/2002)   John Norquist, '97, and Alisa Norquist, '95, celebrated the birth of their daughter in August. They live in Toledo, Ohio.  (submitted 6/26/2003)   J. Todd Bruning, '97, and Jamie Segaran Bruning, '97, Todd was installed as the Senior Pastor at Resurrection Lutheran Church in Plano, Texas on June 17, 2007. Jamie, who was an Assistant to the Bishop in the Northwest Lower Michigan Synod, will be taking a brief leave from call since they are expecting a baby in March 2008.  Their daughter, Kaitlyn, age 18, graduated from Catholic Central High School in Grand Rapids, MI in May 2007.  She will travel for a year before starting college in the Dallas area in 2008.  (submitted 7/19/2007)   Eric Rothgery, '97, and Cynthia Keyser, '99, Eric received a Ph.D. in Religion and Cultures in Asia from the University of Iowa in May 2008.  He is currently teaching in the Religious Studies department at Eckerd College in St. Petersburg, Fla. where he lives with his wife Cindy Keyser and their two sons, Jonah and Micah.  (submitted 5/22/2008)   Jonathan Todd Bruning, '97, and Jamie Segaran Bruning, '97, celebrated the high school graduation of their daughter Kaitlyn Renee Bruning from Catholic Central High School in Grand Rapids, Mich. in May 2007. Ten days later, on their 12th wedding anniversary, the family moved to Texas, where Todd was called as the senior pastor at Resurrection Lutheran Church in Plano, Texas.  (submitted 6/13/2008)   Jonathan Todd Bruning, '97, and Jamie Segaran Bruning, '97, on February 11, 2008 Jamie gave birth to a baby boy, Nikhil Arun Bruning.  (submitted 6/13/2008)   Jamie Segaran Bruning, '97, and J. Todd Bruning, '97, Jamie was called by the Northern Texas Northern Louisiana Synod in the newly created position of Synodical Youth Ministry Coordinator, starting August 1, 2008.  She is also teaching at The Ark Preschool at Resurrection Lutheran Church in Plano, TX, where her son, Nikhil, also attends.  (submitted 8/30/2008)   Andrew Bailey, '96, and his wife, Rebecca, welcomed the birth of their first child, Jacob Andrew, on September 8, 2000. Andrew is the Associate Pastor at Bethany Lutheran Church in La Porte, Ind. Rebecca is a professor in the Communications Department at Valparaiso University. Andrew's e-mail address is: pastor_bailey@hotmail.com.  (submitted 4/15/2002)   Val Webb, '96, published her latest book, Florence Nightingale: The Making of a Radical Theologian (Chalice Press, Feb. 2002). The book explores Nightingale's claim that her one aim in life was to organize a religion not a hospital. By examining, among other writings, Nightingale's unpublished manuscript offering a new religion for England's working class, Webb uncovers Nightingale as a constructive theologian in her own right with contributions to feminist, process and liberation theology.  (submitted 4/15/2002)   Andrew J. Bailey, '96, was installed as pastor at Griffith Lutheran Church, Griffith, Ind. His wife, Rebecca, is a communication professor at Valparaiso University. They and their son, Jacob, expect another son in mid-May. The Baileys can be reached at pastor_bailey@hotmail.com or rebecca.bailey@valpo.edu.  (submitted 6/14/2002)   Wendy Sue (Earle) Kissa, '96, married Dr. Karl Martin Kissa in March at Duke University Chapel in Durham, NC and had a two week honeymoon in Hawaii. Wendy Sue is the associate minister at East Granby Congregational Church in East Granby, Conn. Karl designs fiber optic components for JDS Uniphase. Wendy and Karl live in Simsbury, Conn.  (submitted 6/26/2003)   Dale Stiles, '96, has accepted a new call to serve as solo pastor at Fish Lake Lutheran, Harris, Minn. He began serving there on June 1, 2003. Previously, he served seven years as youth pastor at Our Savior's Lutheran Church in Circle Pines, Minn.  (submitted 8/30/2003)   Nicholas Wilkens, '96, was consecrated as a diaconal minister in the ELCA at Faith Lutheran Church in Seguin, Texas in June. Two weeks later he married Ashley Nelson. He is a licensed professional counselor, a licensed marriage and family therapist, and a board-approved supervisor of counselor interns. He currently serves as the director of the Guadalupe Valley Christian Counseling Center. In December 2001, he earned a doctorate degree in counseling from St. Mary's University.  (submitted 11/5/2003)   Efrem Smith, '96, is the author of Raising Up Young Heroes, published May 2004 by InterVarsity Press. In his book, Smith provides a model for holistic ministry that addresses all the needs of youth - body, soul and spirit.  (submitted 9/1/2004)   Brenda (Torgersen) Ulrich, '96, and her husband, Mark, announce the birth of their son, Caelan Alexander, on May 24, 2004. He has a sister, Sydney, age 5, and a brother, Austin, age 3. Brenda serves as pastor at United Presbyterian Church in Americus, Kans.  (submitted 11/4/2004)   Wendy Sue Earle Kissa, '96, and her husband, Karl, celebrate the birth of their first daughter, Emily Elisabeth. Emily was born on Jan. 14, 2005. Wendy, Karl and Emily reside in West Simsbury, Conn.  (submitted 3/10/2005)   Mari Larson, '96, just accepted a call to Spirit of Joy Lutheran Church, a mission congregation in Cottonwood, Arizona.  Spirit of Joy was started 13 years ago.  I begin ministry there on January 14, 2007.  (submitted 11/16/2006)   Benson Joel Dombi, '96, died in Jos, Nigeria last Friday 9 February 2007. His body will be laid to rest on Saturday 17 February in his home village. Benson received an M.A. in Islamic Studies from Luther Seminary.  (submitted 2/12/2007)   Val Webb, '96, published her latest book, Like Catching Water in a Net: Human Attempts to Describe the Divine (Continuum New York: 2007). In Like Catching Water in a Net, Webb is not out to prove the existence of a God, but to set out intuitions or intimations of the Divine nature and attributes from the literature of the world's religions. Webb delves deeply into the writings of Sufi, Buddhist, and Hindu mystics, the nature religions of ancient Mesopotamians, their kin the Israelites, and the Aboriginal people of her beloved Australia, as well as Christian traditions.  (submitted 11/27/2007)   Johnathan Case, '95, recently taught a systematic theology course at the Wesleyan theological college in Vladimir, Russia. He serves as lecturer in theology at Kingsley College in Melbourne, Australia. He can be contacted by e-mail at jcase@kingsley.vic.edu.au.  (submitted 6/14/2002)   John Foss, '95, and his wife, Sarah, celebrated Caleb John's birth on Aug. 19, 2003. Caleb was baptized on Dec. 28, 2003, by his grandfather, Leslie Foss,'70, at Emmanuel Lutheran Church in Bremerton, Wash., where John serves as pastor. John and Sarah have three other children as well.  (submitted 1/22/2004)   Jonathan Case, '95, has been reassigned by Global Partners/Wesleyan World Missions. After serving for seven years as lecturer in theological studies at Kingsley College in Melbourne, Australia, Case and his family relocated to Auckland, New Zealand, where he will serve as regional theological educator for the south Pacific.  (submitted 6/28/2004)   Mark Shiner, '95, is serving his second year as the Catholic Chaplain at Colgate University in Hamilton, N.Y. Previously he worked as a professional musician in N.Y. His wife, Rebecca, is a recently-tenured professor of psychology at Colgate. Shiner continues to play jazz professionally in central New York.  (submitted 3/3/2005)   Jonathan Case, '95, will join the religion department at Houghton College, Houghton, N.Y., as associate professor of theology in August.  For the last eight years, he has served as a missionary theological educator at Kingsley College in Melbourne, Australia, under the auspices of Global Partners/Wesleyan World Missions.  (submitted 4/1/2005)   Carol (Naeve) Caskey, '95, married Dale Caskey in September 2001. She lives in Rhinelander, Wis.  (submitted 5/10/2005)   Kathryn Larson, '95, accepted a position in July 2005, as a hospice chaplain for Northwest Wisconsin Homecare in Eau Claire, Wis. Her twin, nine-year-old daughters, Karlye and Kierney, keep her busy at home. Kathryn adopted the two from Haiti in 2001.  (submitted 10/19/2005)   Tom Pietz, '95, developed a music CD, sponsored by Thrivent, called "Passions and Priorities." The CD comes with a 28-page devotional booklet. E-mail Tom at tomp@firstlutherancr.org for a free copy. Tom is an executive pastor at First Lutheran Church in Cedar Rapids. The church is a corporate-sized congregation of 40 years that is seeking renewal. Tom is also earning a doctorate degree from Fuller Theological Seminary. His paper is titled "A Strategy for First Lutheran Church to Make, Mature and Mobilize Disciples into Apostolic Mission." He lives in Iowa with his wife, Kris, and their children: Timothy (8), Daniel (6) and Samuel (almost 2). They await the arrival of an adopted daughter from China.  (submitted 10/28/2005)   Erika Nilsen, '95, is the author "The Blessing of Feelings," an intriguing collection of black and white photographs that captures a wide range of feelings that come and go. Children, relating to the faces and easily engage in conversation about what situations might cause a feeling and how it can be handled in a healthy manner. Erika is currently a pastor in Baxter, Minn.  (submitted 4/30/2007)   Alison Shane, '95, and Kent Shane, '95, accepted calls to serve as associate pastors at First Lutheran Church in Poulsbo, Wash. Paul Lundborg, '65, Alison's intern supervisor, was the guest speaker at the installation service.  (submitted 11/22/2002)   H. Graciela Jortack, '95, and Victor Eduardo Jortack, '93, Victor has been called to serve Zwingli United Church of Christ in Berne, Minn. The Service of Installation is June 3, 2007 at 4 p.m.  (submitted 5/25/2007)   Elisabeth Johnson, '94, was called to serve as associate pastor for pastoral care and family ministries at St. Paul Lutheran Church, Stillwater, Minn. In May 2000, she earned her doctorate in philosophy from Princeton Theological Seminary. She served last year as part-time interim pastor for two-point parish in Southwestern Minnesota. She was ordained in September. She lives in Stillwater.  (submitted 4/15/2002)   Hal Weldin, '94, was one of the keynote presenters at the Youth Extravaganza hosted by the ELCA Youth Network, Jan. 20-Feb. 2.  He is the director of distributive learning at Youth Leadership, Minneapolis.  (submitted 2/3/2003)   David Fenrick, '94, accepted a position with the Global Center for Education at Augsburg College, Minneapolis, as faculty liaison/program coordinator. He is in the final stages of his dissertation for a doctoral degree in intercultural studies through the E. Stanley Jones School of World Mission and Evangelism at Asbury Theological Seminary, Wilmore, Ky., where he has also been serving as an adjunct professor of Christian mission.  (submitted 6/26/2003)   Sonja Hagander, '94, and her husband, Jonathan Gusdal, celebrated the birth of their first child, Benjamin, in January. She is a campus pastor at Augsburg College in Minneapolis.  (submitted 8/30/2003)   David Fenrick, '94, married Patricia Renee Miller in September at Luther Seminary.  He is employed at The Center for Global Education at Augsburg College in Minneapolis. Patricia is the director of Feeding Children International in New Hope, Minn.  (submitted 11/5/2003)   David Fenrick, '94, participated in the 2004 Forum for World Evangelization hosted by the Lausanne Committee and Great Commission Roundtable, Sept. 29 - Oct. 5, in Thailand. One thousand, six hundred participants from over 120 countries were involved in 31 working issue groups related to world mission. Fenrick participated in the issue group on Effective Theological Education for World Evangelization. A final issue group report will be published in November 2004.  (submitted 10/10/2004)   Elisabeth Johnson, '94, was called to serve at Trinity Lutheran Church in Watertown, Minn. She began serving there in March.  (submitted 3/1/2005)   JoAnn Weishan, '94, and her husband, James, announce the birth of their son, Soren James. Soren was born on June 23, 2004. JoAnn is the project director at the Argosy Foundation/CSA Philanthropy in Milwaukee. She and James attend Mt. Hope Lutheran Church in West Allis, Wis.  (submitted 3/10/2005)   Sonja Hagander, '94, and her husband Jonathan Gusdal announce the birth of Emilia Ruth, sister to big brother Benjamin.  Emilia was born on April 30.  Sonja is Associate College Pastor at Augsburg College.  (submitted 10/28/2005)   Peter Morlock, '94, recently accepted a position as chaplain at the Care Center at Dellwood in St. Paul, Minn. He and his wife Kristie Hackbart are also celebrating the birth of their daughter Miriam on Sept. 20.  (submitted 10/28/2005)   Kathleen Anderson, '94, and,'03, is an interim pastor with the Northwest Washington Synod. In August she was called to serve as interim pastor at Faith Lutheran Church in Everett, Wash. She is also the co-chair of the Ecumenical Association of Churches in Renton, Wash.  (submitted 11/1/2005)   Karoline Lewis, '94, received her Ph.D. in New Testament Studies from Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia, in May 2006. While in Georgia, she served as Associate Pastor of Worship and Education at Amazing Grace Lutheran Church with her husband Mark Orvick, '94.  Karoline and Mark, and their boys Sigurd and Stellan, now live in Minneapolis where Mark is the senior pastor of Diamond Lake Lutheran Church and Karoline is an adjunct instructor at both Luther Seminary and Augsburg College.  (submitted 10/30/2006)   David Fenrick, '94, received his Ph.D. in Intercultural Studies from the E. Stanley Jones School of World Mission, Asbury Theological Seminary.  (submitted 5/21/2007)   Jeff Nehrbass, '94, Pastor Nehrbass was featured in the Star Tribune February 2, 2008 in an article entitled, "Dancing with the Clergy."  "To me, the [holy] spirit is living, moving and breathing, and that's what dance is," he said.  "It's a way of integrating the spirit into the living, moving and breathing thing that each of us is."  (submitted 2/22/2008)   JoAnn Weishan (Christensen), '94, and James, welcomed a second child, Anders William, on May 13, 2008.  Ander's older brother Soren, who turned four this year, is anxiously awaiting the time when they can play together.  (submitted 8/1/2008)   David Fenrick, '94, was elected Secretary-Treasurer of the Association of Professors of Mission.  David teaches Intercultural Studies at Northwestern College, St. Paul, MN.  (submitted 8/4/2008)   David Fenrick, '94, was appointed Director of Intercultural Unity at Northwestern College, St. Paul, MN, where he also teaches Intercultural Studies.  (submitted 9/18/2008)   Jana Swenson, '94, and Johnathan Swenson, '94, were called to serve as co-pastors to Our Redeemer Lutheran Church, St. Paul, Minn. Previously they served as associate pastors at Zion Lutheran Church, Clear Lake, Iowa. They reside in Maplewood with their two children.  (submitted 4/15/2002)   Nancy (Amburn) Fisher, '94, and Thad Fisher, '95, accepted a call to the Northern Texas/Northern Louisiana Synod as bishop assistant for congregational life and mission in May 2003.  Her main focus, among many, is growing disciples in the communities of the synod.  Her husband, Thad, has a new and challenging call as a stay-at-home dad with their three children. Thad also serves as a part-time interim at Living Waters Lutheran Community in Mansfield, Texas. The Fishers live in Arlington, Texas.  (submitted 6/25/2004)   Ramona Anderson, '93, was called to serve as associate pastor of St. Mark Evangelical Lutheran Church, North St. Paul, Minn. Her ministry will focus on older adults and women. She has served as chaplain of Lyngblomsten Care Center in St. Paul and a pastor at a few Twin Cities area congregations. She has two adult sons and four grandchildren. She lives in St. Paul.  (submitted 4/15/2002)   Peter Y. Wang, '93, was elected to serve on the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America's Division for Congregation Ministries board this past August at the ELCA churchwide assembly in Chicago.  (submitted 4/15/2002)   Lisa Nelson, '93, gave birth to twin boys. She is currently on maternity leave from her call. She has served at Wiota Lutheran and at Bethel Lutheran, both in Wisconsin. Her husband, Robb Kosky, serves at St. Paul Lutheran Church in Waterloo, Wis.  (submitted 6/14/2002)   Diane E. Shallue, '93, graduated from the University of St. Thomas, St. Paul, Minn., in December 2002, with a doctorate in educational leadership.  Her dissertation is entitled, Staging the Role of Elder: A Case Study of an Intergenerational Day Care.  An associate in ministry, she is the director for faith formation at Cross of Glory Lutheran Church in Brooklyn Center, Minn.  She is also an adjunct professor at Luther Seminary, currently teaching a course on Intergenerational Christian Education.  Last year she co-authored with Dr. Roland Martinson a chapter titled Foundations for Cross-Generational Ministry that was published in the book Across the Generations (Augsburg Fortress, 2001).  (submitted 2/3/2003)   Victor Eduardo Jortack, '93, was called to serve as an associate pastor at Saint John Lutheran Church in Owatonna, Minn. He was installed in June.  (submitted 11/5/2003)   Eric Carlson, '93, was called to serve as the senior pastor at Windsor Heights Lutheran Church in Des Moines, Iowa in July. He and his wife, Beth, have two children, Greta and Benjamin.  (submitted 7/2/2004)   Kristofer Skrade, '93, married Ivy Palmer on Oct. 1. Skrade is the development editor on the congregational life and learning team at Augsburg Fortress. He was called to this role in March 2004 by Bishop Mark Hanson. Skrade has led many projects, including the newest confirmation program from Augsburg Fortress, Here We Stand. This program features a groundbreaking online lesson builder tool, video and audio media and a library of presenter's helps. He also led the creation of the program's learner resource The Lutheran Handbook. The handbook is in its third printing six weeks after its release. Skrade is working on a new collection of Lutheran educational resources branded "Winking Luther."  (submitted 5/5/2005)   Kevin Massey, '93, has begun a position of Assistant Director of ELCA Domestic Disaster Response on December 5th, 2005.  (submitted 12/12/2005)   Tim Nelson, '93, joined HealthEast Care System in St. Paul, MN as a Hospice Chaplain after serving most recently as Pastor of Living Waters Lutheran Church in Lino Lakes, MN.  Tim continues to offer spiritual direction with individuals and groups in the wider community.  (submitted 6/10/2006)   Kevin Massey, '93, is the author of a newly published guidebook on spiritual care in disaster commissioned by the National Voluntary Organizations Active in Disaster entitled "Light Our Way." A copy of the book can be downloaded at www.nvoad.org/articles/Light_Our_Way_LINKS.pdf  (submitted 7/26/2006)   Kristofer Skrade, '93, and Ivy, was promoted to Director of New Product Development at Augsburg Fortress Publishers, Minneapolis, Minn. Building on his successes with "Here We Stand Confirmation," "Akaloo," "The Lutheran Handbook" and The Lutheran Course product lines Kristofer will manage the front end of the product pipeline for Augsburg Fortress. He and his wife, Ivy Palmer Skrade, are expecting their first child in June.  (submitted 2/23/2007)   Brett Carter, '93, has published a new book "The Lutefisk Gospel" available now at available now at www.lulu.com/content/598766.  (submitted 4/12/2007)   Andre Heuer, '93, received a Human Rights Fellowship from the University of Minnesota Human Rights Center to begin work fall 2007 at the Center for Victims of Torture Healing Center in Voinjama, Liberia. This area was almost entirely depopulated during the country's fourteen-year civil war. He will be providing mental health services and collecting the stories of returning refugees, internally displaced people, and local community members who have suffered the devastating effects of war and torture.  (submitted 5/22/2007)   Kevin Massey, '93, was appointed Director of the ELCA's Domestic Disaster Response and Executive Director of Lutheran Disaster Response, a collaborative ministry of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in American and the Lutheran Church -- Missouri Synod.  Additionally, Rev. Massey is a Board Certified Chaplain of the Association of Professional Chaplains and Co-editor of "Caring Connections" http://caringconnectionsonline.org an online pastoral care journal sponsored by the Inter-Lutheran Coordinating Committee.  (submitted 6/6/2008)   Steve Weston, '93, and Evelyn Weston, '02, were called last year to serve at Healing Waters Parish, the first "area parish" in Southwestern Minnesota Synod. Along with the lead pastor, the Westons serve seven congregations. They enjoy living in a country parsonage with their three sons.  (submitted 3/3/2006)   Mark Tranvik, '92, was voted by Augsburg College students as the honored faculty member in the College's humanities division for 2000-01. This is the second time in three years Tranvik has received this award. He has taught Reformation history in the College's religion department since 1995.  (submitted 4/15/2002)   Rebecca Lucky Shjerven, '92, serves as co-pastor of Bethlehem Lutheran Church in the heart of Tacoma, Wash. She lives in Gig Harbor, Wash., with her husband, Ray, and three children. She can be reached by email at luckyrev002@earthlink.net.  (submitted 6/26/2003)   Valerie Stein, '92, received her doctorate of theology in Hebrew Bible/Old Testament from Harvard University. I am an assistant professor of religion at the University of Evansville.  (submitted 3/5/2004)   Rich Fitzer, '92, was called to serve as senior pastor of Trinity Lutheran Church, Jamestown, N.D., where he lives with wife Susan and two daughters. Fitzer has worked for the ELCA Div. for Outreach, churches in Minnesota and served on the summer teaching staff at Holden Village retreat center in Washington state.  (submitted 1/6/2006)   Kate Schlechter, '92, received a master of science degree from Seattle Pacific University in Marriage and Family Therapy in June 2005. She specializes in systemic thought and the Bowen Family Systems theory. An interim pastor for the Northwest Washington Synod, she is leading the consolidation of three congregations into one. Kate is also a facilitator and trainer for Healthy Congregations and is developing her private practice as a registered family therapist.  (submitted 3/29/2006)   Gene Sikkink, '92, died June 23, 2006. He is survived by his wife, Barbara; three children, Dan and his wife Tamara, David and his wife Andrea, and Debra and her husband Jeff; and five grand children, Max, Kate, Anna, Marta, and Joel.  (submitted 7/20/2006)   Peter K. Muschinske, '92, has accepted a call from the ELCA Church Council. He was selected as the first Chaplain from the US Navy Reserve to be recalled to Active Duty for the purpose of recruiting Navy Chaplains and Chaplain Candidates (seminarians).  Muschinske was deployed to Iraq last year with Naval Mobile Construction Battalion ("Seabees") Two-Five, out of Ft. McCoy, WI.  He had been serving as senior Pastor of Faith Lutheran Church, Marshfield WI.  Reach him by e-mail: peter.muschinske@navy.mil  (submitted 7/25/2007)   William Rindy, '92, was elected as Bishop of Eastern North Dakota on April 6th.  He replaces Rick Foss.  (submitted 4/29/2008)   William Rindy, '92, was elected April 6 to a six-year term as bishop of the Eastern North Dakota Synod at the synod assembly April 5-6 at the Fargo Civic Center. Rindy's formal installation as bishop will be Aug. 16 at Hope Lutheran Church, South Campus, Fargo. He and his wife Louise, a registered nurse, are the parents of two daughters.  (submitted 6/24/2008)   Dorcas Wang, '92, has received a call to serve as pastor in China under the Global Mission Unit of the ELCA with a partnership of Beijing International Christian Fellowship (BICF).  This is a newly created position of the ELCA. Dorcas wants to thank Luther for giving her the faith formation, academic training, and challenges she received during his four years of seminary life that have prepared her for this mission, and she invites all of you to be a partner in this new, exciting ministry in China through prayers.  If you would like to contact her, please contact the Global Mission of the ELCA for information.  (submitted 8/26/2008)   Beverly Stratton, '95, was promoted from associate to full professor at Augsburg College, Minneapolis. She is a faculty member in the school's religion department. Since her beginning at Augsburg in 1986, she has served the college on a wide range of committees, and has been instrumental in grant administration. She has published a book, Out of Eden: Reading, Rhetoric and Ideology in Genesis 2-3 (Sheffield Academic Press, 1995).  (submitted 5/21/2004)   Mark Kindem, '91, Mark is senior pastor at American Lutheran Church in Stanley, N.D. On April 6-7, he visited Ground Zero for Solidarity Weekend. Read of his experience.  (submitted 6/14/2002)   Hans Weirsma, '91, was awarded a supplemental stipend by the Evangelical Church of Germany and the ELCA Wittenberg Center for his studies at the center located in Wittenberg, Germany. He is working on his PhD dissertation "The Recantation, Rehabilitation, and Reformation of Jakob Probst, Luther's Augustinian Colleague and Friend in the Low Countries."  (submitted 11/21/2002)   Pedro E. Lopez Jr., '91, serves at Park Place Lutheran in Houston. He is also the new coordinator for Hispanic/Latino ministries at the Texas Louisiana Gulf Coast Synod of the ELCA. He and his wife, Elida, recently celebrated their 13th wedding anniversary.  (submitted 11/5/2003)   Beverly Stratton, '91, was promoted to full professor at Augsburg College, Minneapolis. Hired as an assistant professor of mathematics in 1986, she transitioned to assistant professor of religion, was promoted to associate professor 10 years later, and tenured in 1998. She has chaired the religion department and served the college on a wide range of committees and has been instrumental in grant administration. She has published a book, Out of Eden: Reading, Rhetoric and Ideology in Genesis 2-3.  (submitted 7/26/2004)   Julie Josund, '91, was recently appointed to serve as the Director for the newly formed Institute for Clergy and Congregational Renewal. In addition, Joslund will serve as director for the Transformational Leaders Project, which is designed to train pastors and congregational leaders in an adaptive leadership style in order to serve more effectively in the missional culture of the Pacific Northwest.  (submitted 2/13/2006)   Wendy (Beard) Evenson, '91, her husband, Tim, and daughter, Emily, are thrilled to announce the addition of Ashley Elizabeth to their home on Oct. 12. Ashley was born on June 10.  Her adoption was finalized on Feb. 3.  (submitted 2/23/2006)   Juergen Schmode, '91, was consecrated Bishop for the Old Catholic Church of BC in Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada, on June 3, 2007. He has been with the Old Catholic Church of BC for 12 years as a working Priest; you can see reports on the event at www.oldcatholicbc.com  (submitted 10/25/2007)   Cheryl Corneliussen, '91, began call as Senior Pastor at Zion Lutheran Church, Stockton, CA in February.  (submitted 11/13/2008)   Mia J. Baumgartner, '90, was elected this past August to serve a four-year term on the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America's Steering Committee for the Commission of Women. She serves at Fullness of God Lutheran Church in Chelan, Wash. Previously she was village pastor of Holden Village.  (submitted 4/15/2002)   John Kroschel, '90, received his doctor of ministry degree from Colgate Rochester Crozer Divinity School in Rochester, NY. His doctoral thesis is entitled: "Dialectic Preaching in a Postmodern Ethos."  (submitted 11/21/2002)   Chad Brekke, '90, was one of the three ELCA pastors at the kick-off of the "Heart of America" tour in December 2002.  The event was organized by DATA (Debt, AIDS, Trade in Africa), an organization dedicated to raising awareness of the crises that swamp Africa.  During the DATA tour, a host of celebrities including Ashley Judd, Lance Armstrong, Warren Buffett and U2's Bono spread the word about the African AIDS crisis and rallied support.  In addition to learning about the AIDS crisis and what to do about it, Brekke had the opportunity to meet Bono and Armstrong.  (submitted 2/3/2003)   Timothy Eichler, '90, and his wife, Cindy, celebrated the birth of their third daughter. He currently serves as a chaplain with the 3rd Marine Division in Okinawa, Japan.  (submitted 6/26/2003)   Diane Koschmeder, '90, began a new call in September 2004 to Calvary Lutheran Church in Irene, S.D.  (submitted 2/5/2005)   Julie Bowe, '90, has published "My Last Best Friend," a new children's book. This is her first book.  (submitted 3/28/2007)   Julie Bowe, '90, is pleased to announce the release of her second children's book, "My New Best Friend" from Harcourt Trade Publishers.  This is a sequel to her first book, "My Last Best Friend", published last year.  For more information you can visit Julie at her website, www.juliebowe.com.  (submitted 9/22/2008)   Robert Fisher, '90, retired on November 1, 2008 and is doing pulpit supply and teaching adult classes at his wife's, Kelli, church -- Prince of Peace in Coloma, Wisc.  (submitted 2/22/2009)   Philip Ruge-Jones, '90, and Lori Ruge-Jones, '93, had a fruitful sabbatical authoring The Word of the Cross in a World of Glory (Augsburg Press) and Cross in Tensions: Luther's Theology of the Cross as Theologico-Social Critique (Cascade Press) as well as co-editing The Bible in Ancient and Modern Media: Story and Performance (Cascade Press).  (submitted 11/27/2008)

The 80s - back to the top

J.A. "Tony" Machado, '89, led participants in song from a Spanish hymnal at the ELCA's multicultural music festival: One Voice, Many Cultures, in July. The festival took place in St. Paul, Minn. It was geared for children and adults, and offered a series of workshops and concerts that reflected diversity in music. Machado is pastor of Iglesia Luterana El Milagro in Minneapolis.  (submitted 11/22/2002)   Mark Yackel-Juleen, '89, and wife, Margaret, celebrate 10 years of ministry at Shalom Hill Farm this year. The two co-founded Shalom Hill as a center for experiential learning in small town and rural ministry in 1992. Since its beginning, Shalom Hill has hosted guests and seminary students from all over the world, including three bishops from Africa; established a holistic, integrated food policy connecting meals with local gardens and food producers; added the Prairie Spirit Commons, the main housing/meeting facility open to the larger community; and, instituted Common Ground, a metro/rural youth exchange program.  (submitted 6/26/2003)   Patrick Hall, '89, was called to serve as the Minnesota state Director of the Fellowship of Christian Athletes in June 2003. He is currently enrolled in the doctor of ministry program through the Minnesota Consortium of Theological Schools. He and his wife, Debbie, reside in Burnsville, Minn.  (submitted 3/27/2004)   Paul Sorensen, '89, recently published a book entitled Entrepreneurial Faith (Randomhouse - Waterbrook Press), along with the Rev. Kirbyjon Caldwell, senior pastor of Windsor Village United Methodist Church in Houston and Dr. Walt Kallestad, senior pastor of Community Church of Joy in Phoenix. The book draws upon Sorensen's research in business entrepreneurship to help congregations build innovative bridges of compassion to their communities. He will present these findings with Caldwell and Kallestad at the Entrepreneurial Church Conference, Nov. 12-14 in Phoenix. Sorenson is one of the pastors at Community Church of Joy and president of the Joy Leadership Center. He received his doctorate degree in management with a specialization in leadership from the School of Business of Capella University in June 2004. His dissertation, Entrepreneurial Orientation and Sustained Organizational Vitality, explored the relationship between the entrepreneurial behaviors of ELCA senior pastors and the attendance and financial giving growth patterns of their congregations.  (submitted 8/28/2004)   Patrick L. Hall, '89, was called to be the senior pastor at Frontline Church in Maplewood, Minn., in August.  Frontline Church is an 11-year-old non-denominational church founded by Pastors Bill and Lisa Arrigoni of Hudson, Wis.  (submitted 10/28/2005)   Mark Yackel-Juleen, '89, and his wife, Margaret, were recently named as recipients of the 2006 Friend of Rural Ministry Award by the Center for Theology and Land of Wartburg Seminary, in Dubuque, Iowa. The Yackel-Juleens will be acknowledged at the 25th Anniversary Celebration Dinner of the Annual Rural Ministry Conference on Mar. 6, 2006. They are being recognized for their founding of Shalom Hill Farm and other efforts they have supported in the area of rural ministry education.  (submitted 2/14/2006)   Patrick Hall, '89, is completing the doctor of ministry program through Luther Seminary while planting a new church with the Evangelical Covenant Church of America in Minneapolis at Minnehaha Academy High School where he is also coaching the high school hockey team. He and his wife, Debbie, reside in Burnsville, MN. He was also one of the police chaplains on duty working with the family members of those suffering from the 35W Bridge collapse on August 1, 2007.  (submitted 7/18/2008)   Kai Nilsen, '89, received a Doctor of Ministry degree from Fuller Seminary, Pasadena, Calif. on June 13, 2009  (submitted 7/20/2009)   Terri Lynn M. Elton, '88, was elected to serve on the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America's Division for Congregational Ministries board this past August at the ELCA churchwide assembly in Chicago.  (submitted 4/16/2002)   David Lott, '88, is managing editor for the Alban Institute in Bethesda, Md., and the editor of Alban's new book, Conflict Management in Congregations (Alban Press, 2001). The book features 20 classic essays by key thinkers on the issue of conflict management, plus a new introduction by Speed B. Leas, visiting professor of congregational leadership at Pacific School of Religion, Berkeley, Calif., and senior consultant at the Alban Institute. David resides in Washington, D.C.  (submitted 4/16/2002)   Dale Moe, '88, received a certificate of appreciation as a successful congregation developer from the ELCA's Division for Outreach in May. Currently he is developing Lord of Grace Lutheran Church in Tucson, Ariz.  (submitted 11/22/2002)   Jess Abbott, '88, is serving as an Army Chaplain in Qatar. He was called to active duty in early December and will be in Qatar for one year. His wife, Cindy, his sons and everyone in the family are very proud of his service to God and country. He is a pastor at Good Shepherd Lutheran Church in Cincinnati.  (submitted 4/12/2004)   David Apolloni, '88, is teaching philosophy at Augsburg College, Minneapolis. A popular course he teaches explores the philosophy of sex.  (submitted 11/6/2004)   John Voelker, '88, recently earned a Ph.D. in Historical Theology from Marquette University in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. His area of specialty is Patristics; his dissertation, The Trinitarian Theology of Marius Victorinus: Polemic and Exegesis, focuses on the fourth-century church father Marius Victorinus. John has presented papers on the Early Church and Victorinus at the North American Patristics Society conferences held at Loyola University and the International Conference on Patristic Studies at Oxford University, England, and has been published in the theology journal Studia Patristica. John plans to continue his scholarship while remaining in parish ministry.  (submitted 8/26/2006)   John Voelker, '88, delivered a paper at Oxford University's Fifteenth International Conference on Patristic Studies, titled "Marius Victorinus' Latin Witness of Filioque," which will be forthcoming next year in the scholarly journal Studia Patristica,  which also published the papers he gave at Oxford in 1999 and 2003. John took his family with him this time because of a grant, and spent a lot of time sharing research with other fourth century Nicene-Trinitarian Patristics scholars, including a Latin translation project of Marius Victorinus that he worked on the last two years for fellow scholars at the University of Pisa.  (submitted 1/9/2008)   Annette Toft Langdon, '87, was awarded the 2001 Distinguished Alumni Humanitarian Award from Minnesota State University, Mankato, Minn., in April. The award recognized her work in parish nurse education. She has developed and endorsed curriculum for parish nurses and parish nurse coordinators. Currently, she serves as parish nurse at Calvary Lutheran Church in Golden Valley, Minn., where her service focuses on faith and health in ministry for individuals, families and the community.  (submitted 4/16/2002)   Carmala K. Aderman, '87, was called to serve on the ELCA's task force on evangelism for renewing worship. She is the assistant to the bishop at the Northwest Synod of Wisconsin.  (submitted 6/14/2002)   Randall Brandt, '87, was called to serve as pastor of Shepherd of the Valley Lutheran in Apple Valley, Minn.  He directs youth and family ministry, couple's ministry and contemporary worship.  He and his wife Marsha have two daughters and live in Rosemount, Minn.  (submitted 2/3/2003)   Kurt Jacobson, '87, recently traveled to Romania with Global Volunteers, an organization that coordinates short-term service projects in 18 countries. For three weeks, Jacobson and a team of volunteers worked to fill a caregiving gap by comforting children in a "failure-to-thrive" hospital. He also taught conversational English classes to local junior high students. Jacobson is pastor of Trinity Lutheran Church in Eau Claire, Wis.  (submitted 6/26/2003)   Paul Johnson, '87, was called to be an assistant to the bishop for ecumenical relations of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in Canada. He began his duties in March 2003. Previously, he served congregations in Manitoba and Saskatchewan. Along with assisting the bishop, Paul is the chairperson for the Local Worship Implementation Group and member of the International Worship Planning Group. Currently he is assisting with preparations for the 10th Assembly of the Lutheran World Federation set to take place July 21-31 in Winnipeg, Manitoba. He and his wife, Melanie Lewis, '89, live in Winnipeg.  (submitted 6/26/2003)   Robert Hall, '87, was called to serve at Calvary Lutheran Church in Edina, Minn. He began serving there in August. Previously, Hall was senior pastor at Gustavus Adolphus Lutheran in Minneapolis. Hall resides in Lakeville, Minn. with his wife, Debbie, and two daughters.  (submitted 11/4/2004)   Tom Schlotterback, '87, has been appointed as Director of Vocation and Church Leadership at Concordia College, Moorhead, Minn. Rev. Schlotterback previously served congregations in Fremont and Omaha, Neb. He most recently has served as senior pastor of King of Glory Lutheran Church, Billings, Mont., and as a member of Concordia's Board of Regents. He is married to Sarah E. (Swanson), a music teacher and director of music and worship at King of Glory Lutheran Church. They have five children. Rev. Schlotterback will assist Concordia in its mission to be a college of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America, exploring emerging creative partnerships with synodical and churchwide expressions of the ELCA. He will begin his work in January, 2010.  (submitted 9/28/2009)   Catherine Malotky, '86, and colleagues the Rev. Ron Glusenkamp and Linda Renander, received an award of merit in the category for special print materials for the ELCA Board of Pensions' 2002 calendar. They received the award from the Religion Communicators Council.  (submitted 6/14/2002)   Mark R. Aune, '86, accepted a call to serve as senior pastor at Augustana Lutheran Church, West St. Paul, Minn., this spring.  (submitted 11/22/2002)   Catherine Malotky, '86, was named the new regional representative for the ELCA Board of Pensions (BOP). In 1999 she began working at BOP as a plan benefits writer. Prior to 1999, Catherine taught high school drama, led inner city and rural congregations in Minnesota and served as a preaching instructor at Luther Seminary. She has also written curriculum and edited Bible studies, devotionals and stewardship materials for Augsburg Fortress. In addition to her current work with the Board of Pensions, she writes a regular column for Lutheran Woman Today and a column on stewardship for Clergy Journal.  (submitted 6/26/2003)   David Skilbred, '86, was recently named director of government relations for the Independent Community Bankers of Minnesota (ICBM). Previously he was the executive director of the Minnesota State council on Disability. He has held several staff positions in the Minnesota State Senate, including serving as assistant to Senate Majority Leader Roger Moe. He has worked on a variety of public policy issue areas including banking, health care, insurance, workforce development and housing.  (submitted 7/26/2004)   Mark Mattes, '86, Chair of the Departments of Philosophy and Religion at Grand View College in Des Moines Iowa, had his book "The Role of Justification in Contemporary Theology" published by Eerdmans in October 2004.  The book looks at views of salvation in five leading contemporary theologians.  He also coedited, along with Steve Paulson, "A More Radical Gospel," a collection of Gerhard O. Forde's essays and sermons, which is also published by Eerdmans.  He has served at Grand View College for a decade.  Prior to that he served congregations in rural Illinois and Wisconsin.  (submitted 11/20/2004)   David Schick, '86, and his wife, Carla, recently moved to Bratislava, Slovakia where they will serve as missionaries for three years. David has been called to serve as a pastor of the International English congregation and a teacher at the Evangelical Lyceum. Carla serves as a librarian at the Evangelical Lutheran Seminary.  (submitted 3/10/2005)   David Skilbred, '86, was promoted to vice president of government relations by the Independent Community Bankers of Minnesota. He has served as ICBM's director of government relations since October 2003. He and his family reside in St.Paul, Minn.  (submitted 3/11/2005)   Dolores Eddy Dunnett, '86, received her doctorate in worship studies in June.  Her dissertation was on "The Real Presence of Christ in the Eucharist." The degree was conferred upon her by the Institute for Worship Studies, Florida Campus.  (submitted 10/28/2005)   Mark Mattes, '86, has published "Imaging the Journey," a book of photographic images, meditations, and prayers.  It is a collaborative venture between a photographer and administrative staff at Grand View College, where he currently chairs the Religion Department.  Further information about the book can be found at www.lutheranupress.org/catalog/  (submitted 8/22/2006)   Timothy Quarberg, '86, has released his first CD of original songs, "Go Fly A Kite." Visit his website at www.timquarberg.com to listen, buy a CD or download MP3 versions of the songs.  He is available for concerts, special music during worship, and "musical keynotes" at conferences and retreats on themes of vocation and purposeful living.  You may contact him at tim@timquarberg.com.  (submitted 8/13/2007)   Mark Mattes, '86, recently had his sixth book project, a translation of a major academic German theological text, "Theology and the Lutheran Way" (http://www.eerdmans.com/series/lqb.htm)published by Eerdmans Publishing Company. His earlier book, "The Role of Justification in Contemporary Theology", has been reviewed in numerous scholarly journals.  He has once again been elected to the Steering Committee of the Teaching Theologians of the ELCA and also serves on the Board of Theta Alpha Kappa, the national honor society for Theology/Religious Studies.  He serves as an Associate Editor of Lutheran Quarterly and Lutheran Quarterly Books. He has also served as adjunct faculty for Wartburg Theological Seminary, Concordia Seminary, and Concordia Theological Seminary. Recently he lectured in Calcutta, India and in Porto Alegre, Brazil.  He continues in his fourteenth year on the faculty of Grand View College in Des Moines, Iowa.  (submitted 10/6/2008)   Glenn Berg-Moberg, '85, was called to serve as senior pastor at St. Anthony Park Lutheran Church, St. Paul. Previously he served at First Lutheran Church in Beaver Dam, Wis., and St. John Lutheran Church in Janesville, Wis. He and his wife, Karen, have two children, Graham and Siri.  (submitted 4/16/2002)   Rusty Edwards, '85, and contemporary Christian recording artist Twila Paris wrote You are the Sacred Mystery, which was published in The Church of the Brethren Hymnal Supplement. He has published 20 hymns in books used by 28 denominations.  (submitted 4/16/2002)   Bill Gafkjen, '85, was installed as pastor of Christ the King Lutheran Church, South Bend, Ind.  He will serve as part of a two-pastor team.  (submitted 4/16/2002)   John Anderson, '85, was called to serve on the ELCA's task force on evangelism for renewing worship. He is pastor of Christ the King Lutheran Church, New Ulm, Minn.  (submitted 6/14/2002)   Bill Gafkjen, '85, began ministry as the assistant to the bishop and director for candidacy in global mission and campus ministry in the Indiana-Kentucky Synod of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America in September.  (submitted 11/21/2002)   Douglas D. Duin, '85, recently accepted a call to serve as associate pastor at Our Saviour Lutheran Church, Hastings, Minn.  (submitted 11/22/2002)   Caroline Garman, '85, was called to serve as chaplain at Hazelden Foundation. Previously, she served as a resident chaplain at Abbott Northwestern Hospital, Minneapolis. She and her husband, Michael, live in New Brighton, Minn. They have two children.  (submitted 11/22/2002)   Timon C. Iverson, '85, was called to serve as executive director of Global Health Ministries, Minneapolis.  (submitted 11/22/2002)   Rusty Edwards, '85, is publishing a hymn in Church Hymnary. The Church of Scotland is the 30th denomination to use his hymns.  (submitted 6/26/2003)   Jon Anderson, '85, was elected to serve as bishop of the Southwestern Minnesota Synod of the ELCA in June. He leaves his call at Christ the King Lutheran Church in New Ulm, Minn. He and his wife, Robyn Sand Anderson, live in New Ulm with their three children, Laura, Sean and Caitlyn.  (submitted 8/30/2003)   Rusty Edwards, '85, was added to the Distinguished Alumni list by the Interlochen Center for the Arts this fall. His hymn, Sometimes One has to Sing Off-Key, was translated into Chinese and published in Voice of Sacred Music by the World Association for Chinese Church Music.  (submitted 11/5/2003)   Rusty Edwards', '85, hymn "Praise the One Who Breaks the Darkness" has been chosen for publication in the new Lutheran Church Missouri Synod hymnal.  (submitted 7/15/2004)   Rusty Edwards, '85, will publish five hymns in Evangelical Lutheran Worship in October 2006. His hymns have been used by 30 denominations worldwide.  (submitted 10/28/2005)   Rusty Edwards, '85, co-wrote the anthem "The Prayer of Saint Benedict" with Jenni Lee Boyden and Jon Payne, which was published in the UK by the Royal School of Church Music, the patron of which is Her Majesty the Queen.  (submitted 10/12/2006)   Thomas Aitken, '85, was elected May 4 to a six-year term as bishop of the Northeastern Minnesota Synod of the ELCA. Aitken will be installed as bishop in a service Aug. 23 at Trinity Lutheran Church, Brainerd, Minn.  (submitted 6/24/2008)   Arne Bergland, '85, has been selected as the Director of Church Relations for California Lutheran University. Bergland has 28 years of experience working with youth. He has served in leadership positions at the synod, regional and national levels. He recently completed three years as board president for the Associated Ministries of Pierce County in Washington. Bergland will work to sustain and expand CLU's relationships within the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America. His main focus will be the five synods and 731 congregations in Region II, which includes California, Hawaii, Arizona, Colorado, Nevada, New Mexico, Utah and parts of Wyoming and Texas. Bergland will also work closely with CLU's Campus Ministry, Segerhammar Center for Faith and Culture and Religion Department. Bergland and his wife Susan have two college-aged daughters. Their daughter Grete is a junior at CLU.  (submitted 9/2/2008)   Paul N. Swenson, '85, pastor and chaplain, passed away August 25, 2008, after an 8 year battle with prostate cancer. Swenson served as pastor at St. Stephen's Lutheran Church, Marshall, MN, Trinity Lutheran, Montevideo, MN, and Bethesda Lutheran Church, Alexandria, MN. Paul later worked as the Director of Chaplaincy for the St. Croix Chaplaincy Association. Paul is survived by his wife, Valerie and sons, Joshua and Andrew; his parents Neil and Marie Swenson; his sister and many other loving relatives and friends.  (submitted 11/4/2008)   Kwanza Yu, '84, serves at University Lutheran Church of Hope, Minneapolis, and is teaching a spring course at the University of Minnesota called The Religious Foundation of Korean Culture. The course explores the assimilation of various religious and philosophical traditions and their impact on Korean history and culture. Lectures, discussion and readings examine on how Asian religions such as Shamanism, Confucianism and Buddhism, as well as Christianity, have and continue to share Korean culture.  (submitted 4/16/2002)   Jeffrey L. Zust, '84, received a master of theology degree from Princeton Theological Seminary, Princeton, N.J., in May.  (submitted 11/22/2002)   Bruce Wilder, '84, is senior pastor of Faith Lutheran Church in Albuquerque, N.M.  He serves as president of the board of directors of Samaritan Counseling Center and on the advisory board for Habitat for Humanity of Albuquerque.  He is working to earn a doctor of ministry degree from Fuller Theological Seminary, Pasadena, Calif.  (submitted 2/3/2003)   Scot Sorenson, '84, and his wife, Kathryn, had a baby boy, Kai Jacob, in July. Scot serves as pastor of St. John's Lutheran in Sacarmento, Calif.  (submitted 8/30/2003)   Bruce Wilder, '84, is senior pastor of Faith Lutheran Church in Albuquerque, NM. Faith dedicated a new 16,000 square foot addition in September that received the National Association of Industrial and Office Properties award for the 2003 religious facility of the year. Wilder is president of the Samaritan Counseling Center and serves on the advisory board for Albuquerque Habitat for Humanity. He is working toward his Doctor of Ministry degree at Fuller Seminary in Pasadena, Calif. He and his wife, Kristen, live in Albuquerque.  (submitted 3/18/2004)   Sarah Dille's, '84, book Mixing Metphors: God as Mother and Father in Deutero-Isaiah will be released this fall by T&T Clark International. Dille is associate professor of Old Testament and Hebrew at Waterloo Lutheran Seminary in Waterloo, Ontario. She resides in Waterloo with her husband of one year, Daniel Stauffer.  (submitted 5/31/2004)   Kwanza Yu, '84, received a 2005 sabbatical grant from the Lilly Foundation. As part of her sabbatical, Kwanza will give a public lecture on the history of religion in Korea at Peking University in Beijing. She will also lecture at Luther Seminary in Seoul, Korea.  (submitted 3/29/2005)   Dana Peterson, '84, was promoted to executive vice president and chief operating officer at Youth Encounter, St. Paul, Minn. He has served at there since 2001. Peterson oversees all of Youth Encounter's programming and ministries. He is also co-leading its new initiatives in missional youth ministry programming. He lives with his family in Apple Valley, Minn.  (submitted 7/14/2005)   Mark Holmerud, '84, was elected bishop of the Sierra Pacific Synod in April.  (submitted 4/28/2008)   Mark Holmerud, '84, was elected on April 26 to a six-year term as bishop of the Sierra Pacific Synod of the ELCA at the synod assembly in Oakland, Calif.  (submitted 6/24/2008)   Bruce Wilder, '84, a senior pastor of Faith Lutheran Church in Albuquerque, New Mexico, has earned the Doctor of Ministry degree from the School of Theology at Fuller Seminary in Pasadena, California.  (submitted 8/18/2008)   Jayne Thompson, '83, published "Youth Ministry is Centered in Worship" in Brand New Dance: 2001 Playbook (Augsburg Fortress), a youth ministry resource book from the 2000 ELCA Youth Gathering. She also published devotions in Faith Life Weekly, (Augsburg Fortress, Summer 2002), online devotions for VergeYouth College E-Devotions (October, 2000) and five "Deeper Learning" music sessions in Firelight, a new Bible learning curriculum for children and teens (Augsburg > Fortress).  She has submitted "Four Program Sessions on Youth Ministry and Sexuality" for the 2002 Playbook and will continue writing E-Devotions. Jayne is campus pastor at Kansas State University. She and her husband, Jack, live in Manhattan Kan., with three children, Dan, Matt and Kathy.  Jayne and Jack are martial arts instructors at Kansas State.  (submitted 4/16/2002)   Carl Eeman, '83, presented a workshop at the ELCA Church Great Commission Conference in Denver. His presentation, "Jesus for Every Generation," examined the link between generational dynamics and church life. He also delivered this presentation to the ELCA Carolina Evangelism Conference as a keynote speaker in February. His second presentation at the evangelism conference, "Draw Near and Hear," explored ways church leaders can communicate effectively across generational gaps. He and his wife, Heather Eeman Hammond, '84, have two children, Annelise, 12, and Marcus, 9. Heather continues her service as assistant to the bishop of the Minneapolis Area Synod.  (submitted 6/14/2002)   Kevin R. Maly, '83, was called to serve on the ELCA's task force for studies on sexuality. He is a pastor at St. Paul Lutheran Church in Denver.  (submitted 6/14/2002)   Mark Vitalis Hoffman, '83, was appointed assistant professor of biblical studies at the Lutheran Theological Seminary at Gettysburg. Previously he served as pastor of Hope Lutheran Church in Fargo, N.D.  (submitted 6/14/2002)   Carl Eeman, '83, published his first book, Generations of Faith, for the Alban Institute in January. The book examines the generational ideas of William Strauss and Neil Howe from a faith and ministry perspective. Currently, Carl is the interim associate pastor at Gethsemane Lutheran, Hopkins, Minn.  (submitted 6/26/2003)   Mark J. Hagen, '83, recently completed requirements for a doctor of ministry degree through the Minnesota Consortium of Theological Schools. He will receive his degree from Luther Seminary on May 25. The title of his doctoral thesis is, Spiritual Discernment for Church Staff: Integrating Personal Vocation with Congregational Mission. Mark serves as pastor of Bethlehem Lutheran Church in Cedar Falls, Iowa. He and his wife, Naomi, have two sons.  (submitted 6/26/2003)   Stephen Seibel, '83, will receive a doctor of ministry degree from the Lutheran Theological Seminary at Philadelphia on May 23. His project was entitled: Using a mission statement to fulfill the Developmental tasks of Intentional Interim Ministry.  (submitted 5/21/2004)   Dana Nissen, '83, published her article Luther and the Turks in Foundation Theology 2005. She serves as pastor of Victory Lutheran Church in Minneapolis.  (submitted 3/29/2005)   Joe Campeau, '83, published Ordinary Joy: Finding Fresh Promise in Routine Moments (Augsburg Fortress). The book leads readers to discover how joy arrives when they are able to identify God's fingerprints on the surface of each day.  Discussion questions are included at the end of each chapter.  Joe is senior pastor of Christ Lutheran Church in Santa Clarita, Calif.  (submitted 10/28/2005)   Scott Larson, '83, recently received his international Certified Fundraising Executive (CFRE) credentials. Based in St. Paul, Minn., he has been working as a national church consultant with Kairos & Associates for the past year and a half. He also works with Paul J. Strawhecker, Inc., Omaha, Neb., to help non-profit organizations with strategic planning, stewardship and capital fund appeals.  (submitted 4/5/2006)   Lynne Silva-Breen, '83, has completed a Masters in Marriage and Family Therapy from Argosy University, Twin Cities. Lynne is in private practice in Burnsville, Minnesota, with an emphasis on family therapy and pastoral counseling, particularly to clergy, rostered leaders and their families. She can be reached through her website at www.inspiringchange.us  (submitted 8/21/2006)   Dana Nissen, '83, was awarded the Degree of Doctor of Philosophy from the Graduate Theological Foundation. His dissertation was titled Luther and the Turks: The Turkish Threat to Europe and the Sermons of Martin Luther. Dana is rostered in the Mpls. Area Synod and teaches Humanities and Philosophy at the Art Institutes of Minnesota and Argosy University.  (submitted 8/18/2009)   Michael T. Lembke, '82, was awarded the distinguished service award by the Military Chaplains Association of the United States of America on April 24, 2001.  He has been a military chaplain since 1986.  (submitted 4/16/2002)   David Allen Sorenson, '82, along with his wife, Barbara DeGrote-Sorensen, co-authored the ELCA's 2002 stewardship program, Where Your Heart Is. The program is available only on CD, a first for Augsburg Fortress Publishers. They also co-authored their 16th book, When You Are Depressed, a fall 2002 title in Augsburg Fortress' Difficult Times Series. The book will be a low-cost spiritual resource for those facing mild to moderate depression. David is a pastor at Salem Lutheran Church in St. Cloud, Minn. Barbara works with the Central Minnesota Community Foundation. Their son, Reed, won the 2002 National Junior High School Chess Championship and his third national speed chess title.  (submitted 11/22/2002)   David L. Carlson, '82, is the associate professor of behavioral science and director of undergraduate medical education in psychiatry at the School of Medicine at the University of North Dakota in Grand Forks. He has a call to the Eastern North Dakota Synod, ELCA where he co-leads a program addressing transitional issues for newly ordained clergy as well as clergy groups which meet monthly to process cases and issues in pastoral care. He is a psychotherapy supervisor and teacher for the university's psychiatry residency program and provides conflict resolution services for various academic and professional agencies. He has three daughters and lives in Fargo, N.D.  (submitted 11/5/2003)   Carolyn Mowchan, '82, published her book, Connecting with God in a Disconnected World (Augsburg Fortress) in August. The book is designed to encourage adult readers to explore and examine the barriers that sometimes keep us from experiencing a closer relationship with God in Christ, as well as our relationships in faith with one another. Mowchan serves as pastor of Trinity Lutheran Church in Spooner, Wis., with her husband, Will. She is a frequent contributor to the Augsburg Fortress quarterly devotionals.  (submitted 11/5/2003)   David A. Sorenson, '82, published a book with his wife, Barbara DeGrote-Sorensen, called Let the Servant Church Arise! in August. In the book they explore all aspects of Christian servanthood and how it can have a profound effect on both church and civil communities. David and Barbara have authored many books. Together they serve as stewardship coordinators for the Southwestern Minnesota Synod, ELCA.  (submitted 11/5/2003)   Dennis Brostrom, '82, received his D.Min from New Geneva Theological Seminary in Colorado Springs, Colo., in May 2003. He did his course work there from 1996-1999. The title of his dissertation is Hope Remains: Sustaining Viable Ministry in a Small or Declining Congregation. He serves two LCMS parishes along the North Shore of Lake Superior -- Faith Lutheran Church, Silver Bay, and Shepherd of the Lake Lutheran Church, Two Harbors. Both congregations are presently involved in building programs.  (submitted 1/7/2004)   Mark Brown, '82, began his new responsibilities as the regional representative for the Lutheran World Federation field programs in Jerusalem, the West Bank, and the surrounding region.  He completed service on April 14 as the assistant director for international affairs and human rights at the Lutheran Office for Governmental Affairs.  (submitted 7/26/2004)   David Sorensen, '82, begins June 1 as senior pastor at First Lutheran Church of Litchfield, Minn. David and his wife, Barbara, have authored 17 books, including recent titles Let the Servant Church Arise! and When You Are Depressed. They have also authored two ELCA Stewardship Programs, Smart Living and Where Your Heart Is". They occasionally serve as keynoters and workshop leaders for synod and regional events.  (submitted 4/28/2005)   Jeff Barber, '82, was honored in the 2006 Awards issue of "Faith and Form" for his sculpture "The Living Hope of the Ressurrection," which is featured in Luther Seminary's Garden of the Resurrection. Jeff's award is one of two given for sculpture in the visual arts category. The jury's comments about Jeff's work were: ""This interesting sculpture unites the crucifixion with the resurrection, depicting a sense of movement from one reality to another.  It is very embracing, and sculpture's play of textures and its beautifully crafted materials makes its expression very strong.  This static object bursts forth with energy, filling its courtyard setting  with hope and renewal." Two large and striking photographs (by Jeff) accompany the text. To see information about Jeff's award on Faith and Form's website visit www.faithandform.com/features/2006winners/index.php. ;  (submitted 1/11/2007)   Roy Harrisville, '81, became the general manager for Fortress Press in August 2001. He also assumed managerial responsibility for Augsburg Books in December. Previously he served as academic dean at Trinity Lutheran College in Issaquah, Wash. He lives with his wife, Mary, and two children Kendra and David in Plymouth, Minn.  (submitted 4/16/2002)   Linda Jean Taege, '81, died of malaria, Aug. 11. She had been living in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania, and serving the U.S Labor Department's Center for Labor Exchange in Tanzania. The Center helps connect job-seeking Tanzanians with local employers. Taege also worked to improve the lives of Tanzanian women in a strict, patriarchal country. She is survived by her mother, a sister and brother.  (submitted 4/16/2002)   Ann Svennungsen, '81, and the congregation she serves, Trinity Lutheran Church, Moorhead, Minn., received funding through the Transition-into-Ministry program to support pilot projects that help new pastors transition from seminary to full-time pastoral leadership. The congregation will establish a two-year pastoral residency for recent Lutheran seminary graduates who have demonstrated exceptional promise for leadership. Pastoral residency participants will be carefully mentored in addition to participating in intensive, short-term rotations in various program areas of church life. They will also engage in guided study and reflection with the senior pastor in the areas of worship, leadership, pastoral practices and interpreting congregational cultures.  (submitted 11/22/2002)   Bill Russell, '81, delivered two papers and preached at the 10th International Congress for Luther Research in Copenhagen, Denmark in August 2002.  He is currently revising his book, Luther's Theological Testament: The Schmalkald Articles (Concordia Publishing House) for its second printing.  (submitted 2/3/2003)   Ann M. Svennungsen, '81, was elected president of Fund for Theological Education, Inc. She will succeed James L. Waits, who will retire at the end of the year. The Fund was established in 1954 to attract gifted young people to the ministries of the church. It has also awarded scholarship support to racial and ethnic minority candidates for doctoral work in theology. Svennungsen is a pastor at Trinity Lutheran Church in Moorhead, Minn.  (submitted 10/21/2003)   Eric Burtness, '81, wrote Augsburg Fortress' discussion guide "Up for Discussion: The Purpose Driven Church." The guide is downloadable from www.augsburgfortress.org for $4.95. Burtness is pastor of St. Matthew Lutheran Church, Beaverton, Ore.  (submitted 5/21/2004)   Ann Svennungsen, '81, is the featured speaker in May, June and July episodes of "Day 1," an award-winning radio program (formerly known as the "Protestant Hour"). The show is broadcasted on more than 150 stations on the American Forces Network and with US service men and women listeners around the world and online at www.day1.net. She is also president of the Fund for Theological Education.  (submitted 5/21/2004)   Eric Burtness, '81, published Leading On Purpose: Intentionality and Teaming in Congregational Life (Augsburg Fortress; www.leadingonpurpose.org). The book interprets Rick Warren's The Purpose Driven Church and The Purpose Driven Life in a Lutheran context. Eric is senior pastor of St. Matthew Lutheran Church in Beaverton, Ore.  (submitted 3/10/2005)   Eric Burtness, '81, Eric Burtness, '81, published A Life Worth Leading (Augsburg Fortress; www.alifeworthleading.org). People are yearning for purpose, direction, and significance, and a faith that can transform their lives. A Life Worth Leading is based on Paul's admonition to "lead a life worthy of the calling to which you have been called." Eric is senior pastor of St. Matthew Lutheran Church in Beaverton, Ore.  (submitted 2/10/2006)   Richard Swanson, '81, was promoted to the rank of full professor in the Department of Religion/Philosophy/Classics at Augustana College, Sioux Falls, S.D. His third book, Provoking the Gospel of Luke: A Storyteller's Commentary will be published this spring by The Pilgrim Press. Swanson is currently co-chair of the Bible in Ancient and Modern Media for the Society of Biblical Literature, and the director of The Provoking the Gospel Storytelling Project.  (submitted 2/26/2006)   James Arends, '81, was elected bishop of the Lacrosse Area Synod during their 2008 synod assembly June 5-7.  (submitted 6/12/2008)   James Arends, '81, La Crosse (Wis.) Area Synod of the ELCA at the synod assembly at Luther College, Decorah, Iowa.  (submitted 6/24/2008)   Mark Braaten, '81, a 1981 graduate of Luther, Master of Divinity, and a 2005 graduate, Doctor of Ministry, recently had his second book published.  The book is entitled "Prayer as Joy, Prayer as Struggle". It is published by Liturgical Press and is a study of prayer. The book uses biblical stories and personal stories, and explores prayer as being both a gift and a discipline. Mark is presently serving as senior pastor of Our Saviour's Lutheran Church in Tyler, Texas, a bilingual congregation with worship in both Spanish and English.  (submitted 8/28/2008)   Dennis Wenzel, '80, graduated with an M.A. in religious studies with a special emphasis in Spiritual Direction from the University of Detroit Mercy in December 2002. He is the pastor of Immanuel Lutheran Church in Plymouth, Ind. Any 1980 grads who may be in this area, please stop by and say hi.  (submitted 2/9/2004)   Bill Bentzinger, '80, accepted the position of church building consultant and staff architect with the Mission Investment Fund of the ELCA. As deployed staff, he will be responsible for Region 4. This summer he and his wife, Bev, will relocate to Houston. They currently live in Sioux Falls, S.D.  (submitted 3/10/2005)   Jonathan Sorum, '80, and Ann Sorum, '81, are ELCA missionaries in the Slovak Republic. Jonathan teaches at the Evangelical Theological Faculty at Comenius University in Bratislava. Ann is an associate pastor at the International Congregation in Bratislava. The congregation is sponsored by the ELCA.  (submitted 6/26/2003)

The 70s - back to the top

James M. Brandt, '79, was elected to serve on the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America's Division Church and Society board this past August at the ELCA churchwide assembly in Chicago.  (submitted 4/29/2002)   Robert D. Berg, '79, was re-elected May 31 to a six-year term as bishop of the Northwest Synod of Wisconsin of the ELCA.  He has been serving as bishop of the synod since 1995.  (submitted 4/29/2002)   Beth Ann Gaede, '79, edited Size Transitions in Congregations, an anthology published by the Alban Institute. The book offers in-depth resources for congregations seeking growth.  (submitted 11/22/2002)   Karen Bockelman, '79, was elected by the ELCA Church Council to serve on the advisory committee for The Lutheran.  (submitted 2/3/2003)   Beth Ann Gaede, '79, and William O. Avery, professor at the Lutheran Theological Seminary at Gettysburg, published "If This Is the Way the World Works: Science, Congregations, and Leadership" with the Alban Institute.  (submitted 5/8/2008)   Morris Vaagenes, '79, will begin pastoral duties at Lutheran Church of the Master in Brooklyn Center, Minn. on July 1, 2008. Dr. Vaagenes is Pastor Emeritus of North Heights Lutheran Church in the northern suburbs of St. Paul, where he served as Senior Pastor from 1961 to 1999. He has served in leadership in the Lutheran charismatic renewal movement nationally and internationally, and as chairman of the International Lutheran Conference on the Holy Spirit for over two decades. If you are interested in hearing Dr. Vaagenes speak, you may contact the church to find out when he will be preaching (763-561-5852, Ext. 200).  (submitted 7/11/2008)   Walther Kallestad, '78, was called to serve on the ELCA's task force on evangelism. He is pastor of Community Church of Joy, Glendale, Ariz.  (submitted 6/14/2002)   Ron Vignec, '78, received the president's medal from Pacific Lutheran University, Tacoma, Wash. He was honored for his work with Salishan/Eastside Lutheran Mission, the largest federal housing project on the West Coast. Vignec founded the Mission in 1985. It is home to more than 3,500 people, mostly immigrant families, in 850 homes.  (submitted 6/26/2003)   Wallace Obinger, '78, was called to serve as senior pastor at Luther Memorial Church, South St. Paul, Minn.  (submitted 11/5/2003)   Ron Pieere Vignec, '78, is the 2007 recipient for the Greater Tacoma Peace Prize. In 1985, Ron establisehd the Salishan/Eastside Lutheran Mission and has played a key role in revitalizing Salishan neighborhood in east Tacoma.  (submitted 7/3/2007)   Robert Sachs, '78, received a D.Min. (CML) with the first cohort at Luther Seminary in May 2007 and will be installed April 2008 as a missional redevelopment pastor to Trinity LC in Evanston, WY, which received a two year revitalization grant from the ELCA-Rocky Mountain Synod-Wyoming Conference.  (submitted 2/25/2008)   Dennis K. Hagstrom, '77, was elected to serve on the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America's Division for Ministry board this past August at the ELCA churchwide assembly in Chicago.  (submitted 4/29/2002)   Timothy J. Wengert, '77, was called to serve on the ELCA's task force for studies on sexuality. He is a professor of reformation history at Lutheran Theological Seminary at Philadelphia.  (submitted 6/14/2002)   Gary Wollersheim, '77, was called to serve on the ELCA's task force on evangelism for renewing worship. He is bishop of the Northern Illinois Synod.  (submitted 6/14/2002)   Timothy Wengert, '77, presented a paper on the United Methodist and Lutheran understandings of justification and sanctification at the Lutheran-United Methodist dialogue that convened in Oslo, Norway, Sept. 12-16. Timothy is professor of Reformation history at the Lutheran Theological Seminary at Philadelphia. The aim of the dialogue was to consider key theological issues as they affect the possibility of the two churches entering full communion.  (submitted 11/21/2002)   Jeffrey A. Franko, '77, became the second North Dakota chaplain to reach the rank of colonel in June. He is one of a handful of chaplains who hold the rank of colonel in the nation. Jeffrey has been a member of the North Dakota Army National Guard for 14 years. In civilian life, he is the pastor of Lord of Life Lutheran Church, Bismarck, N.D. He and his wife, Pam, live in Bismarck.  (submitted 11/22/2002)   Timothy Wengert, '77, co-wrote the book In Christian Assembly: Marks of the Church in a Pluralistic Age (Fortress Press, 2004) with Gordon W. Lathrop. The authors seek to seek to answer the questions, How do you know the Christian church when you encounter it? And what are its marks? Wengert is Professor of Church History at Lutheran Theological Seminary at Philadelphia  (submitted 5/21/2004)   Gary Wollersheim, '77, was elected to a second six-year term as bishop of the Northern Illinois Synod of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America (ELCA) at the synod assembly June at Augustana College, Rock Island, Ill. Wollersheim was first elected bishop in 1998. Following his ordination he led and developed congregations in Illinois.  (submitted 7/26/2004)   Darrell D. Morton, '77, became assistant to the presiding bishop for federal chaplaincies of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America (ELCA) on July 1.  Before assuming the position, he was chief of personnel and readiness in the Office of the Air Force Chief of Chaplains.  He and his wife, Wendy, live in Woodbridge, Va.  (submitted 10/28/2005)   Gary Hatcher, '77, celebrated the 30th anniversary of his ordination on July 22, 2007. The celebration was held at St. Peter Lutheran Church in Greene, Iowa.  (submitted 8/23/2007)   Chris Brekke, '77, has written a creative devotion book, complete with comics, called "Faith Appetizers", A Sampler Platter of Biblical Christianity.  Published by Bethany Press, the book is mature enough for adults and fun enough for kids. Check it out at www.cbrekke.wordpress.com  (submitted 12/12/2008)   Richard (Dick) Schedtler, '77, died Thursday, Sept. 10, 2009, at his home in San Diego, Calif., after a short battle with cancer.  Dick served as pastor in many congregations, including St. John's Lutheran Church in Northfield, Minn.  (submitted 9/24/2009)   Wayne Menking, '76, was appointed director of the Lutheran Seminary Program in the Southwest, a program co-sponsored by Wartburg Theological Seminary and the Lutheran School of Theology at Chicago. Previously, Menking served as executive director of the Ministry Development Center of the Southwest. He has led congregations in Michigan, Wisconsin and Texas. He and his wife, Mary, have four children.  (submitted 4/29/2002)   D. Randall Faro, '76, was installed as pastor of St. John's Lutheran Church in Chehalis, Wash. Previously, he led congregations in the Evangelical Lutheran Church in Canada for more than 26 years.  (submitted 11/21/2002)   Steven M. Nelson, '76, and family announce the death of Marjorie Louise Nelson. Marjorie passed away in January after a 10-year battle with breast cancer. She is remembered as a devoted wife, mother, educator and friend who was instrumental in serving congregations with her husband Steven. She is survived by Steven, two daughters, a son, two sisters, a bother, and 17 nieces and nephews and their spouses and children. Steven is pastor at Christ the King Lutheran Church, Combined Locks, Wis.  (submitted 11/22/2002)   Ronald Marshall, '75, had an article published in the Sept. 2002 issue of Soren Kierkegaard Newsletter. The title of his article is "Kierkegaard's Cure for Divorce." He also had an article published in the July issue of The Bride of Christ, entitled "Beneath God's Righteous Frown." He serves as pastor at First Lutheran Church of West Seattle, Wash.  (submitted 11/21/2002)   Charles Alan Treptow, '75, died in January. His years in parish ministry included service in congregations across Texas. He also worked with a number of community organizations, including: the Texas State Historical Association; Sons of Hermann Fraternal Lodge; CrossWise Ministries; Brenham Mission Society; and the Human Rights Committee at the Brenham State School. He is survived by his wife, Barbara, three children, two step-children, one grandson and two sisters and their spouses.  (submitted 11/22/2002)   Susan Hedahl, '75, published her book, Who Do You Say That I Am? 21st Century Preaching (Augsburg Fortress) in August. The book provides some basic definitions of preaching in the post-modern age from a Lutheran perspective. She is a professor of homiletics at Gettysburg Lutheran Theological Seminary in Pennsylvania. She has authored several books and is currently working on a theological mystery novel.  (submitted 11/5/2003)   Ronald Marshall, '75, published, "Preaching Against the Cross" in Lutheran Partners (Sept/Oct 2003). The article was also selected for discussion at the Fall 2003 Luther Seminary faculty retreat. His recently published book, Making a New World, was recognized by Dr. Brevard S. Childs, Yale Divinity School, as "...a distinct service to the church in our time." The 40-page book covers Martin Luther's 12 rules for reading the Bible. In August, Marshall will celebrate his 25th year of ministry at First Lutheran Church of West Seattle. His wife, Dr. Jane L. Harty, received an award for 25 years of teaching from Pacific Lutheran University in Tacoma, Wash. She teaches keyboard studies in the university's music department.  (submitted 2/27/2004)   Ronald Marshall, '75, published "Somber Lutherans" in Lutheran Forum (Spring 2004). This article is a proposed corrective to the demise of confessional Lutheranism in the ELCA.  (submitted 7/26/2004)   Ronald F. Marshall, '75, celebrated his 25th anniversary of ordination on Sept. 26, 2004. The celebration featured a new hymn composed for the occasion by the renowed church musician, Dr. Carl F. Schalk (b. 1929) entitled Thankless for Favours from on High. The hymn text is a poem by William Cowper (1731-1800) on death, judgment and redemption. The text and recording is available online at www.flcws.org/cowper-schalkhymn.htm.  (submitted 11/4/2004)   John Matthews, '75, currently senior pastor at Grace Lutheran Church of Apple Valley, Minn., recently published Anxious Souls Will Ask . . . the Christ-centered Spirituality of Dietrich Bonhoeffer" (Eerdmans, 2005). Matthews is vice-president of the International Bonhoeffer Society - English language section. His book introduces readers to the faith and faithfulness of Dietrich Bonhoeffer, as shown in Bonhoeffer's prison correspondence from the spring and summer of 1944.  (submitted 6/4/2005)   Ronald Marshall, '75, published "Kierkegaard's Music Box" in Lutheran Forum (Fall 2005). This article is a critique of Joakim Garff's new biography, Soren Kierkegaard (Princeton, 2005).  (submitted 2/16/2006)   Ronald Marshall, '75, The hymn commissioned for Ronald Marshall's 25th anniversary of ordination (2004), "Thankless for Favours from on High," by Carl F. Schalk (b. 1929), based on a 1792 poem by William Cowper, has been recording and is online at www.flcws.org.  (submitted 3/2/2006)   Ronald Marshall, '75, published an article in the September 2006 "Lutheran Forum" entitled "Kierkegaard's Sesquicentennial".  (submitted 8/22/2006)   Ronald Marshall, '75, published an article in the September 2006 Lutheran Forum entitled "Kierkegaard's Sesquicentennial". The article commerates the 150th anniversary of the death of Soren Kierkgaard, a well-known Danish Christian author, who the Lutheran Book of Worship lists as "among those worthy of commeration."  (submitted 8/22/2006)   Ronald Marshall, '75, has posted on his congregation's webpage a critique of the new ELCA worship book, Evangelical Lutheran Worship. He solicits your responses.  (submitted 11/30/2006)   Ronald Marshall, '75, has published a critique of the new ELCA sexuality study, Free in Christ to Serve the Neighbor. His critique is entitled "Getting Off on the Wrong Foot," and was published in the January 2007 issue of Forum Letter.  (submitted 1/14/2007)   John W. Matthews, '75, was recently elected President of the International Bonhoeffer Society (English Language Section), having served for one decade as vice-president.  John has been actively involved in the Bohoeffer Society since graduating from Luther Seminary in 1975, editing its Newsletter between 1995-2000.  He recently co-chaired the International Bonhoeffer Kongress (2004) in Rome and also published a book through Eerdmans in 2005 entitled, "Anxious Souls Will Ask . . . the Christ-centered Spirtiuality of Dietrich Bonhoeffer."   The 'English Language Section' is affiliated with the International Bonhoeffer Gesellschaft in Germany and is a subgroup of the American Academy of Religion. John has been the Senior Pastor of Grace Lutheran Church in Apple Valley, MN. since 2003.  (submitted 1/16/2007)   Ronald F. Marshall, '75, has recently published a piece called "Evangelical Lutheran Worship and Universalism" in Cross Accent, Journal of the Association of Lutheran Church Musicians.  For more information, contact Pastor Marshall at First Lutheran Church of West Seattle, 4105 California Avenue Southwest, Seattle, Washington 98116, (206)935-6530.  (submitted 10/10/2007)   Ronald Marshall, '75, has just published an essay entitled "The Sickbed Preacher: Kierkegaard on Adversity and the Awakening of Faith" in volume 17 of the International Kierkegaard Commentary, edited by Robert L. Perkins and published through Mercer University Press, Macon, GA. This essay was part of his continuing education project for the summer of 2005. On this essay, the editor, Prof. Perkins, writes: "Marshall addresses a rare theme in Kierkegaard's writings: the importance of physical illness and the prospect of imminent death in the religious and Christian consciousness. In his authorship the phenomenon of physical illness and death is so subordinated to the theme of spiritual illness and death that the foreboding of physical death may not have been properly noticed. If that is the case, Marshall goes far to address any such putative one-sidedness. He penetratingly examines the issue of physical illness and death in the context of Luther's theology, in contrast to the denial of death in contemporary pop-religion and culture, and in dialogue with the signal insights of Kierkegaard's scattered views of physical death."  (submitted 11/19/2007)   Ronald Marshall, '75, has just published his tribute to Edna H. Hong (1913-2007), a poem entitled "Thorough Kneading of Reflection," in the Soren Kierkegaard Newsletter (Number 52, December 2007). His poem is based on a line -- given in the title of the poem -- from Kierkegaard's book, Two Ages (1846).  (submitted 1/17/2008)   John Pederson, '75, is on sabbatical in 2008.  He will study in the archives of Flannery O'Connor and spend six weeks at the University of Aberdeen, Scotland concentrating study on Eberhard Jungel and Karl Barth with John Webster and Phillip Ziegler. In 2006 he attended the Gifford Lectures (Jean Bethke Elshtain) at the University of Edinburgh and read his paper on religion and the state at a round table at Oxford University.  (submitted 3/5/2008)   Ronald F. Marshall, '75, has just published his study of children's versions of The Book of Jonah, entitled "Eaten Alive," in Touchstone. This was part of his continuing education project for the summer of 2004. Go online to read it at touchstonemag.com.  (submitted 3/25/2008)   Ronald F. Marshall, '75, had a video interview posted on the internet ("Learn About the Koran - From a Lutheran Pastor," May 25, 2008, westseattleblog.com). It regards his class on reading straight through the Koran in four weeks. He has been teaching this class four times a year since 2003.  (submitted 5/28/2008)   Ronald F. Marshall, '75, is on YouTube at "Kierkegaard on Sickness" and "Kierkegaard Walking." His son Anders shot the videos for him.  (submitted 6/14/2008)   Ronald Marshall, '75, has just published his second article in the International Kierkegaard Commentary. It is entitled "Constraining the Berserk: Kierkegaard on Adler and the Ideal Pastor."  (submitted 12/22/2008)   Ronald F. Marshall, '75, had his article, "Why I Teach the Qur'an," posted March 10 on The Lutheran E-newsletter.  (submitted 3/10/2009)   Ronald F. Marshall, '75, had his critical review of Bill Maher's new movie, Religulous, posted on flcws.org.  (submitted 3/12/2009)   Ronald F. Marshall, '75, had his critique, "Consensus Crazy," of the new ELCA sexuality proposals posted in Forum Letter online, Feb.27, 2009.  (submitted 3/12/2009)   Ronald F. Marshall, '75, had his sermon on Genesis 22, "Take the Test," published at Lutheran Forum Online.  (submitted 6/22/2009)   Susan Hedahl, '75, Professor of Homiletics has been awarded the Herman G. Stuempfle Chair of Proclamation of the Word at Gettysburg Lutheran Seminary. The conferral ceremony is on October 13, 2009.  (submitted 6/23/2009)   Ronald F. Marshall, '75, published his article, "Driven by God: Kierkegaard's Parable of the Royal Coachman" in Toward the Final Crossroads: Festschrift for Edna Hong and Howard Hong, Mercer University Press, edited by Jamie Lorentzen.  (submitted 10/28/2009)   Richard Anderson, '74, was called to serve on the ELCA's task force on evangelism for renewing worship. He is pastor at St. Andrew Lutheran Church, Eden Prairie, Minn.  (submitted 6/14/2002)   Stephen P. Kristenson, '74, was re-elected to a third four-year term as bishop of the Synod of Alberta and the Territories of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in Canada.  (submitted 11/22/2002)   James Stenson, '74, was re-elected as county commissioner from the second district in Nicollet County. He lives in rural Nicollet County with his wife, Diane. They are members of First Lutheran Church in St. Peter, Minn.  (submitted 6/26/2003)   John Lee, '74, was called to serve as an assistant to the bishop of the Northwestern Minnesota Synod, ELCA. He begins this new position in December. Previously he has led congregations in North Dakota and northern Minnesota. Along with working with the bishop and staff, he will work with lay ministry leaders and first call pastors.  (submitted 11/5/2003)   Charles Daley, '74, and Carol Daley, The Reverend Charles A. Daley, 57, died in San Diego on May 13, 2006, of cancer. In addition to his wife Carol, he is survived by two children and a brother. Reverend Chuck was a graduate of Concordia College in Moorhead.  At the time of his death, he was the Pastor of Congregational Life at Penasquitos Lutheran Church in San Diego.  (submitted 5/16/2006)   Harold L. Usgaard, '73, was elected June 9 to a six-year term as bishop of the Southeastern Minnesota Synod of the ELCA.  He currently serves as senior pastor at St. Olaf Lutheran Church, Austin, Minn.  (submitted 4/29/2002)   Ernest L. Simmons, '73, was elected to serve on the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America's Division for Higher Education and Schools board this past August at the ELCA churchwide assembly in Chicago.  (submitted 4/29/2002)   Dean E. Johnson, '73, was recently named special assistant to the chief of chaplains of the National Guard. The position carries the rank of brigadier general, which is the highest rank within the chaplain corp. of the National Guard. Johnson has served with the Minnesota Army National Guard for 31 years and as the Minnesota state chaplain for 11 years, overseeing the Minnesota Army National Guard's chaplain corp. and chaplain assistants. When called to serve as the Minnesota state chaplain, he was the youngest chaplain to be selected for colonel in the nation. Along with his work with the National Guard, Johnson is a state senator from Willmar and a part-time pastor at Calvary Lutheran Church, Willmar, Minn.  (submitted 4/29/2002)   Craig E. Johnson, '73, was elected June 2 to a six-year term as bishop of the Minneapolis Area Synod of the ELCA.  He had previously served as associate vice resident for church relations at Gustavus Adolphus, St. Peter, Minn., since 1996.  He will succeed David W. Olson, '64, on Sept. 1.  (submitted 4/29/2002)   Dean Johnson, '73, was promoted to the rank of Brigadier General in the Army National Guard. Dean, who serves as the state chaplain of the Minnesota Army National Guard, was selected to become the Special Assistant to the Chief of Chaplains, National Guard Bureau, Washington, D.C. In addition to this position, he is a state senator from District 13 and a part-time pastor at Calvary Lutheran Church in Willmar.  (submitted 8/30/2003)   Dean Johnson, '73, former Minnesota Senate Majority Leader was sworn in as a member of the University of Minnesota Board of Regents by Associate Justice of the Minnesota Court of Appeals Lorie Gildea. He was elected to a four-year term on the university's 12-member governing body by the Minnesota Legislature in April.  (submitted 5/18/2007)   James Schroeder, '73, passed away on June 20, 2008.  (submitted 6/30/2008)   Craig Johnson, '73, was named the 2008 distinguished alumni by Gustavus Adolphus College.  (submitted 9/19/2008)   James Schroeder, '73, died June 20.  (submitted 2/27/2009)   David Aaker, '73, is the co-author, with Jan Nelson of the recently published second edition (2009) of The Bereavement Ministry Program - A Guide for Churches.  The book was first published in 1998.  The book is published by Ave Maria Press, Notre Dame, Indiana.  (submitted 6/9/2009)   Robert D. Hofstad, '73, and David C. Wold, '60, was elected June 9 to a six-year term as bishop of the Southwestern Washington Synod of the ELCA.  He has served as assistant to the bishop since 1996.  He will succeed David C. Wold, '60, on September 1.  (submitted 4/29/2002)   Richard R. Omland, '73, and Mark R. Ramseth, '70, was elected bishop of the Montana Synod in May. He succeeded the Rev. Walter J. Kirkegaard who had been serving as the synod's interim bishop since the Rev. Mark R. Ramseth's, '70, resignation as bishop to become president of Trinity Lutheran Seminary in Columbus, Ohio. Before serving as bishop, Richard was director of pastoral care and church relations for St. John's Lutheran Ministries, Inc., Billings Mont.  (submitted 4/29/2002)   Stephen M. Youngdahl, '72, was elected to serve on the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America's Division for Global Mission board this past August at the ELCA churchwide assembly in Chicago.  (submitted 4/29/2002)   John Schleif, '72, joined Good Samaritan Hospital, Los Angeles, as vice president of professional services. He will oversee the hospital's administration and work closely with a number of its departments. Before joining GSH, John served as COO at St. Francis Medical Center, Honolulu, for four years. He has also held vice president positions at the Kapiolani Medical Center for Women and Children, the Queens Medical Center and the Immanuel Medical Center. He is an honorary consultant to the ministry of health of the People's Republic of China. He is also a fellow of the American College of Healthcare Executives and has served on the editorial board of its magazine, Healthcare Executive.  (submitted 4/29/2002)   Stanley Olson, '72, was named director of the ELCA's Division for Ministry in July. He begins his new position in November. Currently he is bishop of the Southwestern Minnesota Synod of the ELCA, a position he has held since 1994.  (submitted 11/22/2002)   Richard Spiedel, '72, published Building a Bridge of Understanding: Helping Pastors and Congregations do Mission (self-published, 2005). The book presents down to earth solutions for how congregations can work together peacefully.  Prayers are included at the end of each chapter, as well as adult study sheets.  The book can be purchased at the Luther Seminary bookstore. Spiedel is retired and lives in Boise, Idaho.  (submitted 3/29/2006)   David A. Furuness, '72, will retire from active ministry on 15 June, 2008. David's first call was to St. James Lutheran Church, New Haven, Indiana. In 1979,he began a call to St. Stephen's Lutheran Church in Indianapolis, Indiana and in January 1998 he began a call to Gethsemane Lutheran Church in Fort Wayne, Indiana.   (submitted 6/3/2008)   John Clawson, '71, became president and CEO of Lutheran Social Services of Southern California in October 2000. Based in Fullerton, Calif., LSS Southern California is a multi-service, social service agency, affiliated with the ELCA and recognized by the LCMS. John and his wife, Annette, live in Placentia, Calif. From 1992 to 2000, he served as director of public policy and advocacy at LSS Minnesota.  (submitted 4/29/2002)   Richard Foss, '71, and '84, was re-elected bishop of the Eastern North Dakota Synod. His new term will begin Aug. 1. He has served as bishop at the synod since 1992.  (submitted 6/14/2002)   Duane C. Danielson, '71, was re-elected bishop of the Western North Dakota Synod of the ELCA. He has served as bishop of the synod since 1996. Before serving the church as a bishop, he worked on the synod's staff for several years after serving as a pastor in several North Dakota congregations.  (submitted 11/22/2002)   Rolf P. Wangberg, '71, and Alren D. Hermodson, '62, was elected June 10 to a six-year term as bishop of the Northwestern Minnesota Synod of the ELCA.  He had previously been serving as interim pastor of Grace Lutheran Church, Ada, Minn.  Wangberg will succeed Alren D. Hermodson, '62, on Sept. 1.  (submitted 4/29/2002)   Hal Hoekstra, '70, is senior pastor at Bethany Lutheran Church, Crystal Lake, Ill. His sermon, Choose Your Words Carefully: The Poverty of This World, was published on the National Council of Churches' Web site in March. It was one of several sermons featured on the Council's site as part of a month-long focus on poverty. This sermon also appeared in an earlier issue of Pulpit Digest magazine. Hoekstra also had an interview published in the Nov/Dec 2001 issue of the Alban Institute Journal titled "Rethinking Abundance." The piece tells the story of Bethany Lutheran's receipt of a $1.425 million bequest from a former member and the process of rethinking abundance in congregational development.  (submitted 6/14/2002)   O.K. (Orville Keith) Anderson, '70, is celebrating nearly 33 years of full-time ministry. He has served congregations in South Dakota, Iowa and California. He and his wife, Kathleen (Peterson), have two children and four grandchildren. Though he has suffered the loss of one eye, glaucoma in the other eye and prostate cancer, he is living happily and celebrates each day even more fully, especially after meeting a person who told him: "When the praise goes up – the power comes down." He has many fond memories at Luther, teachers and relationships and is grateful for the many "tastes" of the Kingdom.  (submitted 6/26/2003)   Morris Vaagenes, '70, has published a new book, Baptism: God's Activity of Grace. Why is baptism important? Should my child be devoted or baptized? Should my child be immersed or sprinkled? Rev. Morris Vaagenes explores these difficult questions in his new book, Baptism: God's Activity of Grace.  The book provides a wealth of insights and rich biblical context on the theories, methods, and true meaning of baptism. Vaagenes was the Senior Pastor at North Heights Lutheran Church for over 38 years. He played a crucial role in developing the Roseville and Arden Hills campuses. During his tenure, the church grew from 525 to 7300 members and ranks among the largest Lutheran churches. The book is now available for purchase through Kirk House Publishers. The book costs $15.00. Kirk House Publishers PO BOX 390759 Minneapolis, MN 55439 952-835-1828 www.kirkhouse.com  (submitted 8/23/2006)   David Otterness, '70, and his wife Rebecca will be featured in the Jan-Feb issue of Caring Today, a national magazine for family caregivers. David has advanced multiple sclerosis. He retired due to disability in 1977.  (submitted 11/27/2006)   Glenn Borreson, '70, had his 110-page book, WATER FOR YOUR SOUL: Living in Baptism Every Day,  published in Jan. 2008 by Infinity Publishing. This book of 31 brief chapters was written to give the reader an experience in baptismal spirituality, an elaboration of Martin Luther's conviction that Christians receive enough in baptism to study and practice their whole life long.  (submitted 2/21/2008)   Jim Parks, '70, has already "failed at retirement."  He served an interim ministry at Outing, Minn, for several months, and has now volunteered through the ELCA's Global Mission to serve as an English teacher in a Lutheran High School in Kocise, Slovakia.  Jim traveled to Bratislava, the capitol, for a one-week orientation with other new teachers, and is now in Kocise in orientation with the teachers in his school. His term will go through June 30, when they end their school year.  (submitted 9/2/2008)   Dean Wesley Nelson, '70, and Paul W. Egertson, '60, was elected June 1 to a six-year term as bishop of the Southern California (West) Synod of the ELCA.  He had previously been serving as pastor at First Lutheran Church, Torrance, Calif.  He will succeed Paul W. Egertson, '60.  (submitted 4/29/2002)

The 60s - back to the top

Dennis L. Heaney, '69, was elected to serve on the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America's Division for Outreach board this past August at the ELCA churchwide assembly in Chicago.  (submitted 4/29/2002)   David Mullen, '69, was elected bishop of the Sierra Pacific Synod, ELCA. He will be installed as bishop on June 15 in Stockholm, Calif. Mullen serves as pastor at Calvary Lutheran Church in Rio Linda, Calif. He and his wife, Susan, live in Antelope, Calif.  (submitted 6/14/2002)   Lanny Knutson, '69, began serving as pastor of Gloria Dei Lutheran Church in Winnipeg, Manitoba on May 1. The congregation is part of the Manitoba/Northwestern Ontario Synod of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in Canada.   (submitted 7/2/2004)   Gerald C. "Jeb" Monge, '69, has had his book: A Spiritual Memoir (Reflections on Mark) published by Publish America, Frederick, MD and released on July 11th.  (submitted 6/11/2009)   Ray D. Christenson, '68, was elected to serve on the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America's Publishing House of the ELCA board this past August at the ELCA churchwide assembly in Chicago.  (submitted 4/29/2002)   Donald (Don) Juel, '68, died in February following a long illness. Don was the Richard J. Dearborn Professor of New Testament Theology at Princeton Theological Seminary. Previously he served congregations and taught at Indiana University and Luther Seminary in addition to Princeton. A member of the Society for the Study of the New Testament and the Society of Biblical Literature, Don translated, edited and authored a number of articles and books in New Testament studies, including Messiah and Temple; Messianic Exegisis; Mark (a commentary); and A Master of Surprise: Mark. He is survived by his wife, Lynda, his mother, two children, a brother and sister.  (submitted 6/26/2003)   Darrel O. Lundby, '67, was elected to serve on the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America's nominating committee this past August at the ELCA churchwide assembly in Chicago.  (submitted 4/29/2002)   Paul J. Blom, '67, was re-elected June 7 to a six-year term as bishop of the Texas-Louisiana Gulf Coast Synod of the ELCA.  He has been serving as bishop of the synod since 1991.  (submitted 4/29/2002)   Lowell Almen, '67, was re-elected as secretary of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America at the church's biennial churchwide assembly in August. He has served as secretary for six years.  (submitted 4/29/2002)   Clark Morphew, '67, died in December 2002 of lung cancer.  He is well-known for his work as a religion news reporter with the St. Paul Pioneer Press.  His weekly column was syndicated and published in newspapers across the nation.  Prior to full-time reporting, Morphew was a freelance writer and a curriculum writer and editor for Augsburg Fortress.  After his retirement from the Pioneer Press in 2000, he wrote a column for the Metro Lutheran. During his newspaper career, Morphew received various honors from the Associated Press, Religion Newswriters of America and the Religion Communicators Council.  His work was twice nominated for the Pulitzer Prize in journalism. After his ordination in 1967, Morphew served as a parish pastor at congregations in North Dakota and Minnesota.  He also worked as a school teacher in Iowa and California.  He is survived by his wife, Jeanne, six adult children and four grandchildren.  (submitted 2/3/2003)   Roger Aus, '67, recently published Matthew 1-2 and the Virginal Conception (University Press of America, 2004). He retired in 1993 after serving as a pastor in Berlin for more than 20 years.  (submitted 3/10/2005)   Roger David Aus, '67, published Imagery of Triumph and Rebellion in 2 Corinthians 2:14-17 and Elsewhere in the Epistle,(Lanham, MD: University Press of America, 2005).  (submitted 2/13/2006)   Roger David Aus, '67, published Imagery of Triumph and Rebellion 2 Corinthians 2:14-17 and Elsewhere in the Epistle, (Lanham, MD: University Press of America, 2005.  (submitted 3/29/2006)   Charles W. Mays, '66, was elected to serve on the ELCA's Church Council this past August at the ELCA churchwide assembly in Chicago.  (submitted 4/29/2002)   James Ray, '66, was selected to serve as president of the National Council of Juvenile and Family Court Judges. In this capacity, he will lead the 1,700 member National Council and oversee a 30-member board of trustees. He is in his third term as administrative judge for the Lucas County (OH) Juvenile Court. James has been active both in local community organizations and on the national level, particularly in developing a curriculum for training community leaders in adolescent substance abuse programs. He spent ten years as a parish pastor before befoming a referee in the Lucas County court system. He and his wife, Barbara, live in Toledo. They have two sons and two grandchildren.  (submitted 8/30/2003)   Gordon Lathrop, '66, released a new book entitled, Holy Ground: A Liturgical Cosmology (Augsburg Fortress 2003). It explores the content to which the central symbols and interactions of Christian liturgy yield, for their participants, a new proposal for their organization and experience of the world. Lathrop is Charles A. Schieren Professor of Liturgy at the Lutheran School of Theology in Philadelphia.  (submitted 10/29/2003)   John Jones, '66, died at his home in Wakonda, S.D., on Sept. 15. Funeral services were held at Zion Lutheran Church in Scotland, S.D., on Sept. 18. Jones graduated from Luther College, Decorah, Iowa, in 1960 with a bachelor's degree in classics. He graduated from Luther Theological Seminary with a master of divinity degree and was ordained into the ministry of the American Lutheran Church in 1966. In 1959, he married Louise Knudson. They had three children. Before graduating from the seminary he was employed as a machinist, cookware salesman, commercial salmon fisherman in Alaska and youth ministry director. Following his ordination, he served parishes in Kansas, Nebraska, Missouri, South Dakota and Iowa. His ministry experiences also include serving as a part time chaplain at an alcohol dependency treatment center. In June 2001, he retired from active ministry and moved to Wakonda. During his retirement, he served as a pulpit supply preacher. One of his favorite activities for 39 years was taking his family and youth and adult church groups canoeing in the Boundary Waters Canoe Area in northern Minnesota. He is survived by his wife, mother, three children, two sisters, a brother, seven grandchildren and one great grandchild.  (submitted 11/5/2003)   Jon Lee, '66, will be honored by Texas Lutheran University on May 12 when they bestow the degree of Doctor of Divinity, Honoris Causa  (submitted 3/16/2007)   Arthur Larson, '65, died at Innovis Hospital, Fargo, N.D., on Sept. 24, 2003. He was 65 years old. He led congregations in Minnesota, North Dakota and South Dakota. He is survived by his wife, Sylvia, two sons, six grandchildren, two greatgrandchildren, a sister, four nieces, a nephew, two sisters-in-law and two brothers-in-law.  (submitted 3/16/2004)   A. Joseph Everson, '65, has been appointed Interim Provost and Dean of the Faculty at California Lutheran University, Thousand Oaks, Calif. Everson is professor of biblical studies and longtime chair fo the religion department at CLU. Prior to teaching at CLU, he was a member of the religion department faculty at Luther College, Decorah, Iowa and served as pastor of Hope Lutheran Church in St. Paul, Minn.  (submitted 11/4/2004)   Dale Brand, '65, recently published a devotional book based on Paul's Letter to the Romans. The book, New Life, is a deep spiritual analysis of one or more verses a day for the entire year. Its purpose is to help the reader discover and live a new life in Jesus Christ through the words of Paul to the Romans. New Life can be reviewed at www.lulu.com/content/218736. Brand is pastor of Gethsemane Lutheran Church in San Antonio.  (submitted 3/6/2006)   David W. Olson, '64, ended his term as bishop of the Minneapolis Area Synod of the ELCA.  He was succeeded by Craig E. Johnson, '73, on Sept. 1, 2001.  (submitted 5/13/2002)   Walter Leitze, '64, retired in June. He served 40 years in the Coast Guard reserves, 38 of which he ministered as a chaplain and parish pastor. Currently he is working to obtain a doctor of ministry degree through Luther Seminary. Diagnosed as bi-polar, he plans to use his experience to develop a ministry for individuals diagnosed as bi-polar and their families. He expects to complete his doctoral studies in 2003.  (submitted 11/22/2002)   Christian Samuel Oswood, '64, died on Jan. 10. He was 64 years old. He is survived by his wife, Charlotte, three sons and five grandchildren.  (submitted 3/16/2004)   Arley K. Fadness, '64, is one of five writers who contributed to a new book entitled Sermons on the First Readings by C.S.S. Publishing Co. Arley's sermons on the lectionary series A are entitled "Journeys Through the Cactus Patch."  Also Arley has self-published Holy Moses, an intergenerational Lenten Series through his Onesimus Press Publications.  (submitted 11/4/2004)   Dr. Darrel Gilbertson, '64, has co-authored with Dr. Lynn Anderson a book published by Leafwood Publishers titled Exit Stage Right, a personal study of our final baptismal tasks.  (submitted 11/18/2008)   John Petersen, '63, published Reading Women's Stories: Female Characters in the Hebrew Bible (Augsburg Fortress). The book explores the narrative word of the Hebrew Bible opening the world of women in the Old Testament. Peterson is a professor of Old Testament at Pacific Lutheran University in Tacoma, Wash.  (submitted 11/5/2003)   Raymond A. Jensen, '63, died on July 6, 2006 in Tempe, AZ from complications of stomach cancer.  He is survived by his wife of 46 years, Lori, their three children, Diane, Lisa, and Torrey, and seven grandchildren. Ray served churches in Newport, WA, Teaneck, NJ and North Tonawanda, NY. He retired in 1996.  (submitted 7/20/2006)   Adimael Lema, '63, Three students from East Africa were at Luther between 1959-63. They came on an unusual airlift funded by John F. Kennedy's family, organized by Tom Mboya of Kenya and were here to become nation builders in East Africa after independence. I was the Executive Director of the African American Students Foundation which helped the airlift students and together with Tom's widow, Pamela, we will write a book about the impact of the experience. If anyone remembers Adimael Lema, Shadrack Ngowi or Elimani Meena and would like to help with our research, we would be so grateful. Contact: Cora Weiss cweiss@igc.org Thanks so much.  (submitted 8/16/2007)   Halvor Ronning, '62, lives and works in Jerusalem, Israel, with his wife Mirja. They founded the Home for Bible Translators in Jerusalem, Inc. The Home provides complete study courses in the Hebrew Bible and heavily subsidized housing in Jerusalem. Ronning  is a lecturer in history and geography and a licensed guide of the land of Israel. The Ronnings have resided in Jerusalem for more than 30 years, and have three children and six grandchildren.  (submitted 11/21/2002)   Gilbert Rossing, '62, announced the recent publication and release of his book "Dignity, Dogmatism, and Same-sex Relationships" (Resource Publications, a division of Wipf & Stock, Eugene, Ore.). This timely book addresses many of the issues raging in the current culture wars over same-sex marriage, hate crime legislation, and the legalization of gay rights. Rossing turns equally to science and Scripture to establish a thorough argument for validating the relationships of gay and lesbian couples.  (submitted 2/5/2009)   Ronald Martinson, '61, was recently awarded an honorary doctor of divinity degree by Luther College, Decorah, Iowa. Currently he serves as bishop of the Alaska Synod.  (submitted 4/29/2002)   David Lindblom, '61, and '91, was inducted into the University of Minnesota's M Club Hall of Fame.  A former Gopher athlete and two-year letter winner, he received the Lifetime Achievement Award.  Lindblom was a member of the 1956 NCAA Championship baseball team and captain of the team that won the Big Ten Championship in 1958.  (submitted 2/3/2003)   James McCalmant, '61, died in January. Following seminary, he re-enlisted in the Navy and served as a chaplain until his retirement from the military in 1978. He served congregations in California until he retired from full-time ministry in 1994 and relocated to Paynesville, Minn. In his retirement, he served many communities as an interim pastor. He was active in Paynesville Lutheran Church, a member of the Koronis Nite Owls Square Dance of Paynesville, WFW, American Letion and the Paynesvville senior golf league. He was president of the board of directors of Paynesville Area Center, chairman of Block Nurse Program and a member of the Southwestern Minnesota Synod of the ELCA. He is survived by his wife, Arlene, a daughter, a son, two granddaughters and three sisters.  (submitted 6/26/2003)   Marshall Johnson, '61, published The Evolution of Christianity: Twelve Crises that Shaped the Church (Continuum, 2005).  It is in some respects a sequel to his book Making Sense of the Bible (Eerdmans, 2002).  (submitted 10/28/2005)   Sig Arneson, '61, was appointed in Sept. by Bishop Ronald Warren to serve at Christus Victor Lutheran Church in Ocean Springs, Miss., following hurricane Katrina.  He has served at Faith Lutheran in Cleveland, Ga, and at Faith Church in Baltimore, Mar.  (submitted 2/13/2006)   Marshall D. Johnson, '61, I have completed sixty articles for the New Interpreter's Dictionary of the Bible, forthcoming from Abingdon.  (submitted 6/9/2006)   Marshall D. Johnson, '61, has had his book "Psalms Through the Year: Spritual Exercises for Everyday" (2007), a collection of meditations and historical reflections for the calendar year on the book of Psalms published by Augsburg Fortress.  (submitted 11/1/2006)   Marshall D. Johnson, '61, Augsburg Books has published my commentary, The Apostles' Creed: A User's Guide and also my revised edition of Martin Luther, Day by Day We Magnify You.  (submitted 11/6/2008)   Denny Brake, '61, and his wife Sarah, have recently been honored with a cabin built in their name at Camp Agape, Fuquay-Varina, N.C.  Pastor Brake is currently serving as Pastor Emeritus of Good Shepherd Lutheran Church in Raleigh, where he has been serving for the last 14 years.  His first assignment back in 1961 was at Looney Valley Lutheran Church, in rural Houston, Minn.  (submitted 3/9/2009)   Thomas Wilkens, '61, and Betty Wilkens, professor emeritus of theology at Texas Lutheran University, and his daughter Kim have recently published a book titled "Un-American Activities: Countercultural Themes in Christianity." The book's subtitle, "A modern father and a postmodern daughter reflect on their pilgrimages of life and faith," highlights an important dimension of their collaborative work. Tom currently resides with his wife Betty, a former nurse and childbirth educator who wrote the book's Foreword and Afterword, in Georgetown, Texas. Kim lives with her husband and their son in Charlottesville, Virginia, where she serves as a technology consultant and teacher, an Emerging Church advocate, and a community activist. Her brother Nick, the director of an ecumenical counseling center, did some preliminary editing of the book; he lives with his family in San Antonio, Texas.  (submitted 8/29/2009)   David C. Wold, '60, was elected to serve on the ELCA's Committee on Discipline this past August at the ELCA churchwide assembly in Chicago.  (submitted 4/29/2002)   Ron Lavin, '60, published his 16th book, I Believe, Help My Unbelief: Another Look at the Apostles' Creed, (CSS Publishers) in December 2001. The fifth book in the "Another Look" series, Stories to Remember: The Parables of Jesus will be published this fall.  (submitted 4/29/2002)   George S. Johnson, '60, received this year's Distinguished Alumni/ae Award for Academic Excellence from Claremont School of Theology, Claremont, Calif. The award is the highest honor the school bestows on its alumni/ae. Johnson also received an outstanding alumni/ae award from Augustana Academy, Canton, S.D. His book, Beyond Guilt: Christian Response to Suffering (Adventure Publications), is in its third printing. He lives with his wife, Vivian, in San Marcos, Calif.  (submitted 11/22/2002)   Ron Lavin, '60, published Stories to Remember: Another Look at the Parables of Jesus (CSS Publishers, 2002). The book is the second in the five-volume Another Look series. The remaining books in the series, Abba: Another Look at the Lord's Prayer; Saving Grace: Another Look at the Word and Sacraments; and The Big Ten: Another Look at the Ten Commandments, will be released in 2003, 2004 and 2005, respectively. Lavin is retired and lives in Encinitas, Calif. He can be reached at randjlavin@cox.net.  (submitted 11/22/2002)   Ron Lavin, '60, recently published his 19th book, Saving Grace: Another Look At The Word And Sacraments (CSS Publishers, Lima, Ohio). This is the fourth book in the "Another Look" series. The other three books are I Believe, Help My Unbelief (2001), Stories to Remember (2002) and ABBA (2002). Two additional books in this series will be published in the next two years: The Big Ten and People Who Met Jesus. The books have questions at the end of each chapter for discussion by adult Sunday school classes, Bible study groups or other small groups. Saving Grace and other books by Ron Lavin are available at the Luther Seminary library or may be purchased directly from CSS (800-537-1030).  (submitted 4/12/2004)   Ron Lavin, '60, recently published his 19th book, Saving Grace: Another Look At The Word And Sacraments (CSS Publishers, Lima, Ohio). This is the fourth book in the "Another Look" series. The other three books are I Believe, Help My Unbelief (2001), Stories to Remember (2002) and ABBA (2002). Two additional books in this series will be published in the next two years: The Big Ten and People Who Met Jesus.  The books have questions at the end of each chapter for discussion by adult Sunday school classes, Bible study groups or other small groups. Saving Grace and other books by Ron Lavin are available at the Luther Seminary library or may be purchased directly from CSS (800-537-1030).  (submitted 5/21/2004)   J. Thomas Housholder, Jr., '60, died in April at his home in Overland Park, Kans., from complications of Parkinson's disease. He was a gifted preacher, writer and innovative church leader with a passion for evangelism. He served congregations in Idaho, Montana, Illinois and Kansas. In addition to serving congregations, Housholder, was the director of evangelism for the ALC (1975-1979) during which time he served as a consultant for churches worldwide. He was an unconventional pastor and colorful personality, a blessing to his family, friends and someone who glorified God in his daily life. He is survived by his wife, Delphine, three sons and six grandchildren.  (submitted 5/21/2004)   Ron Lavin, '60, recently had his book "The Eagle" published.  Ron is an award-winning author of over 25 books, including "Witness", "Turning Griping Into Gratitude", and the popular "Another Look" series. In "The Eagle", Ron begins his series on the gospels by exploring John's words of encouragement and how they still speak to us through the ages.  (submitted 9/22/2008)

The 50s - back to the top

Glen E. Peterson, '59, was one of four Augustana College, Sioux Falls, SD alums who received the Augustana College Distinguished Alumni Award. He was honored at a formal ceremony in October during the College's homecoming. The award recognizes Augustana alumni who have made outstanding contributions to their fields of endeavor, their communities, and/or their churches.  (submitted 11/4/2004)   Harry Fullilove, '59, died on Christmas Day 2004. A pastor and missionary, he led congregations in Minnesota, New York and Florida, and served with his late wife, Ruth, in Pakistan, Ghana and India. He retired from full-time ministry in 2001. Harry is survived by his two brothers, two children, eight grandchildren and three great grandchildren.  (submitted 3/10/2005)   Jim Lokken, '59, died unexpectedly on September 23, 2006. He served parishes in Barrett, Minn.; Brookings, S.D.; New York City, and San Francisco. He is survived by his elder brother, Stanley, Stan's grown children, and many friends at St. Francis' Church, San Francisco and elsewhere. For a tribute on Jim's life and ministry, go to www.hillerleiturgia.com/reflectmaster.html  (submitted 9/28/2006)   Paul Ofstedal, '58, edited These Words Upon Your Heart (Augusburg Fortress 2002), a new book of daily reflections by some of Christianity's greatest theologians. Each chapter includes a brief bio of the writer, 10 selections from their classic writings and a contemporary reflection.  (submitted 6/14/2002)   Paul Richard Jorstad, '58, entered eternal life on March 13, 2009. After graduating from Luther Theological Seminary on May 25, 1958, he was ordained into the Ministry of Word and Sacrament of the Evangelical Lutheran Church on June 22, 1958 at First Lutheran Church in Kenyon, Minn.  He served at Grace Lutheran Church in Palo Alto, Calif., Church of the Good Shepherd in Salinas, Calif., and Faith Lutheran in Yucaipa, Calif. After retirement he served as visitation pastor at Faith Lutheran in Sun City, Calif. until 2001. During his ministry Pastor Paul served on numerous community boards on local issues and and served the wider church on several committees of the Pacifica Synod. He also served as Conference Dean and chair of the Homosexuality Ministry Team.  One of his joys of ministry was the privilege of supervising fourteen pastoral interns.       Fifty years ago Pastor Paul wrote these words at the end of his ordination bulletin: "My prayer is that I might remain steadfast and faithful to the will of God in the work of the Church."  His son, Pastor David Jorstad, is a 1985 graduate of Luther Seminary.   (submitted 6/19/2009)   Aaker Vincent, '58, died June 21, 2009, surrounded by his family, at Seasons Hospice in Rochester, Minn.  During his ministry, Vince first served as pastor in Taylor, Wisc., and subsequently at Our Savior's in Pequot Lakes, Minn., and Gloria Dei and Our Savior's in Rochester, Minn.  Following his parish ministries, Vince served in the Office of Development at Luther College in Decorah, Iowa, Bethany Homes in Rochester, Minn., and with the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America Foundation, serving in two Northern Minnesota Synods and the Eastern North Dakota Synod.  In retirement years, he served as a volunteer visitation pastor to shut-ins for several Lutheran congregations. He is survived by his wife of 53 years, Marion, daughter, Kris; son, Dave; and two grandchildren, Danielle and Chad.  (submitted 7/8/2009)   George Voeks, '58, died at Prospect Park Living Center on Friday, September 25, 2009. He was 90 years old. George served as pastor at Bethlehem Lutheran Church in Morris, Ill. for 5 years and at East Immanuel Lutheran Church in St. Paul, Minn. for 26 years. He served the interdenominational Estes Park Church of Joy from 1992-1998.  George enjoyed meeting others, spending time with his family and enjoyed most of all sharing the love of Jesus. On any given day if asked, "How are you Pastor V?", his response would be "I'm living in the Victory!" Funeral services will be held on Friday, October 9, 2009 at 11:00 a.m. at East Immanuel Lutheran Church in St. Paul, Minn. See www.allnutt.com to read George's on-line obituary and send a message to the family.  (submitted 10/5/2009)   Gerald Gundersen, '57, and his wife, Ellie, recently celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary. They were married before entering his first year at Luther Seminary. Also, they rejoice in the birth of their fifth grandchild. Gerald baptized the child at Trinity Lutheran Church in Rocky Point, N.Y. Since his retirement, Gerald has served three interims and has served as a Sunday supply preacher in Long Island. A retired Army chaplain, Gerald regularly leads commitment services at the two national cemeteries on the island. He greets the fellow members of his class.  (submitted 11/25/2003)   Sverrer Lundh, '57, died in Oslo, Norway on Dec. 16, 2003. He served his pastoral ministry in the U.S. before retiring to Oslo.  (submitted 3/16/2004)   David Spencer, '57, died on June 22. He is survived by his wife, Lois, and four sons, David, Leonard, Karl and Todd. His friend and classmate Al Solmonson wrote a poem in his memory. He served several parishes throughout the U.S., most recently Queen Valley Community Church, Arizona from 2000-2006. Read Al's poem about David here: www.luthersem.edu/alums/resources/alsomonsonpoem.pdf  (submitted 7/11/2006)   Paul A. Ranum, '56, was appointed to serve as interim bishop of the Southwestern Minnesota Synod. He will succeed Bishop Stanley Olson, '72, who will become executive director of the ELCA division for ministry in November. Paul will serve the synod until a new bishop is elected in June 2003. He retired in 1994 after serving six years as synod minister with the Southwestern Minnesota Synod and 10 years before that in a similar role with the Southwestern Minnesota District of the former American Lutheran Church.  (submitted 11/21/2002)   M. Laurel Gray, '56, received the Christian Unity Award from the San Diego County Ecumenical Council. He founded the Third World Opportunities program, a project that enlists volunteers to do service projects in poor neighborhoods in Mexico. He helped organize the Senior Gleaners of San Diego County, a group that collects excess food from area farms and stores for local food shelf agencies. Laurel was the first area director of Lutheran Social Services of San Diego and worked to organize Centro de Asuntos Migratorios, a social service agency for immigrants. He also founded the Interfaith Task Force on Central America and started a house church for Americans in Rosarito, Mexico. He has been active in numerous interfaith dialogues. He and his wife, Patricia (Sorenson), recently celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary. They live in El Cajon, Calif., and have five children and three grandchildren.  (submitted 6/26/2003)   Arnold Gregerson, '56, died on June 24th in Spokane, Wash. He served as a chaplain in the U.S. Air Force and as a pastor in the Nezperce/Craignmont, Idaho area. In 1971 he went to Chewelah, Wash. and served at St. Paul Lutheran Church in a tent ministry until his retirement in 1990. Following his retirement, he served as an interim pastor in American Falls and Pierce, Idaho. He is survived by his wife, Donna, four sons, seven grandchildren and three great-grandchildren.  (submitted 11/5/2003)   Robert A. Reusche, '55, died in Stockton, Calif., on April 25. Reusche served as a full-time pastor for 16 years and was a social worker with child protective services for 23 years while serving as a part-time youth pastor at Zion Lutheran Church, Stockton. His ministry experience includes serving five California parishes. He is survived by his wife, Esther, three children, six grandchildren and a brother.  (submitted 4/16/2002)   Harry L. Anderson, '55, died in July. His ministry included service to congregations in Minnesota, Montana and South Dakota. In 1957, he was called to serve with the Lutheran Service Commission in Okinawa, Japan. He retired in 1989. Anderson continued to serve the church after his retirement as an interim pastor and supply pastor at congregations in Nebraska. He is survived by his wife, Marilyn, two daughters, one son, three step-daughters, one step-son, 11 grandchildren and three great-grandchildren.  (submitted 11/22/2002)   Norman Johnson, '55, died in July after suffering a heart attack. His ministry included service to congregations in North Dakota, Iowa, Washington and Indiana. In addition to leading congregations, he served as the health planner for the state of Minnesota. He was also an adjunct professor in social science at Vincennes University in Vincennes, Ind., and wrote devotional materials for Augsburg Fortress Publishers. In 1988, Norman retired in Indianapolis with his wife Doris.  (submitted 11/22/2002)   Norman Dahle, '55, and his wife, Eleanor, will celebrate 50 years of marriage on a cruise this fall. Their daughter, Mary, is collecting greeting cards and notes to place into a book to present to them. Friends are welcome to send cards or letters, along with a photo of themselves from the era when they first knew them and one from present. Cards, letters and photos can be mailed to her attention: PO Box 5695, Ketchikan, AK, 9901, by mid August. Friends who would like their photos returned should note it on the materials they send.  (submitted 7/26/2004)   Donald Lee, '54, died in June 2002, after a long illness. He is survived by his wife, Margaret, his children Maia, Kari, Tora, Marcus, Anton, Gustav, Ivan, Katherine and Kristofer, and 11 grandchildren.  (submitted 11/21/2002)   Karl Brevik, '54, died on Oct. 27, 2003 of heart complications. He led congregations in Minnesota, Montana and Illinois. He was also a published author, former religion studies instructor at Concordia College, Moorhead, Minn., and lecturer at Augsburg College in Minneapolis. For the past 17 years, he lived in Indian Wells, Calif., and co-ran Brevik Travel International, Inc., a popular group travel company specializing in arranging international trips for clergy and congregations. He is survived by Sharon his wife, four children, three stepchildren, 14 grandchildren and two great grandchildren.  (submitted 3/16/2004)   Richard Ulvilden, '54, has died.  (submitted 12/12/2007)   Richard Ulvilden, '54, passed away.  (submitted 12/12/2007)   David John Campbell, '53, died Oct. 10. He was survived by wife Opal; daughters, Miriam and Mary Beth (Bob) Berg; sons, Eric (Deb), Jon (Ginny), and Kent; and 12 loving grandchildren.  (submitted 10/28/2005)   Hofrenning James, '53, Wija Distinguished Professor Emeritus at Concordia College in Moorhead, Minn. has recently published a book, Easter People in a Good Friday World - Making Wise Moral Decisions, (Lutheran University Press, 2005, St Louise Park, Minn.) It is designed as a study book for congregations. It should work well to use the theme and book for the Lenten Easter Season.   (submitted 2/16/2006)   Ronald Soderquist, '53, and his wife, Elda, are long time Marriage & Family Therapists in Thousand Oaks, California. Last June they celebrated their 55th wedding anniversary by publishing their book, EQUALITY!SECRET OF LASTING LOVE, an engaging, frankly written guide to becoming a "vitalized" couple.  The book is filled with exercises that will allow husbands and wives to talk to each other as equals, setting the stage for negotiations that lead to loving equality. The couple are active members of Holy Trinity Lutheran where they lead seminars and workshops on many topics, including marriage enrichment, stress and grief.  They have lectured on both marriage and hypnosis in the U.S. as well as Australia, Russia and England. Elda has retired and Ron's partner is now their daughter, Lynn Di Sarro.  EQUALITY! is available at WESTLAKEHYPNOSIS.COM. and Amazon.com. Old friends can write them at eldaron@earthlink.net (After serving two parishes Ron was Director of Counseling at both St. Olaf College and California Lutheran University and was Associate Professor of Pastoral Theology at New York Theological Seminary)  (submitted 11/10/2006)   Ron Soderquist, Ph.D., '53, and his wife, Elda, both California Marriage Counselors are co-authors of EQUALITY! SECRET OF LASTING LOVE, a self help book for couples.  The publishing of their book coincided with their June 2nd 55th wedding anniversary.  Ron enjoys a practice in family counseling and medical hypnosis in Thousand Oaks, site of California Lutheran University where he once served as Director of Counseling. EQUALITY! is available at www.westlakehypnosis.com  (submitted 1/10/2007)   James Hofrenning, '53, has been had a "Presidential Scholarship" given in his honor at Concordia College, Moorhead, Minn.  (submitted 3/20/2008)   Richard Combs, '53, of Sacramento, California, died, June 2008.  (submitted 2/27/2009)   Alton Larsen, '53, died at his home in Minneapolis, Minn., on Sunday, October 4, 2009.  He was 91.  After being ordained, Alton served three churches in or near Ostrander, Minn., and worked to help them merge into one, Trinity Lutheran.  Alton served in Ostrander for 11 years before moving to rural Zumbrota, Minn., where he served for 20 years as pastor of Lands Lutheran Church and Minneola Lutheran Church.  Services for Alton and his son, Eric, who died September 13, 2009, were held at Lands Lutheran Church, rural Zumbrota, on Friday, October 9, 2009.  (submitted 10/8/2009)   James Hofrenning, '53, and Raymond Siegle, '60, were the recipients of ALumni Achievement Awards at Concordia College, Moorheard, Minnesota. The awards were given to four individuals during their homecoming celebration in October 2006.  (submitted 11/2/2006)   Stanley Williamsen, '52, died of a rare lung disease Nov. 2003. He was 81 years old. He served congregations in Washington, Alaska and Egypt. Following his retirement, he served as a supply preacher for 17 congregations. He is survived by his wife of 54 years, Rosalie, four children, three grandchildren and a brother.  (submitted 3/16/2004)   Olin "Ole" Nordsletten, '52, died in February after a lengthy illness. He was pastor of Prince of Peace Evangelical Lutheran Church in Kenmore, Wash., for 32 years. He retired in 1987. Before serving at Prince of Peace, he was pastor of Trinity Lutheran Church in Fort Atkinson, Wis. He is most remembered for his determination and sometimes unorthodox approach in serving others. A sign outside his church read: "Pray, but swing the hammer." He was known to live that motto throughout his life – for him prayer was important and action was critical in making a difference in other's lives. In addition to serving at Prince of Peace, he worked with county officials to establish the Paramount House low-income apartments for the elderly and disabled. He also wrote and produced Christmas plays, performed by young people both at the church and on local television. He is survived by his wife, Arlett, four daughters, six grandchildren, two great-grandchildren, a brother, a sister and a sister-in-law.  (submitted 5/21/2004)   Stewart Govig, '52, died unexpectedly in April.  He had been a long-time religion professor at Pacific Lutheran University in Tacoma, Wash. He is survived by his wife, Alice Tanner Govig and three children: John, Bruce and Ellen.  (submitted 10/28/2005)   John Nicolai, '52, and his wife Lorraine Nicolai of Bismarck, ND, died in an automobile accident near Dickinson, ND on Tuesday, October 7, 2008.  They were traveling to Tacoma to attend John's 60 year anniversary of graduating from PLC (PLU). Pastor Nicolai grew up in Orland, CA and was a member of First Lutheran Church.  He attended Orland schools, graduating from Orland Joint Union High School in 1942.  He graduated from Pacific Lutheran College in 1948.  After spending a year at UC California he entered Luther Seminary and graduated in 1952.  During his time at Luther Seminary he met Lorraine Solberg and they were married in 1951. He was ordained into ministry at First Lutheran in Orland in 1952.  He served all his ministry in North Dakota.  He spent 3 years in the Dunn Center area and the remaining years at Trinity Lutheran Church, Bismarck.  John and Lorraine retired in Bismarck, ND, in 1989. John is survived by 5 children, Pastor Randall Nicolai, Renee Cleary, Pastor Steven Nicolai, Susan Weiss, David Nicolai and 14 grandchildren.  He is also survived by his only sister, Lena Woodmansee, of Chico, CA and a member at Faith Lutheran, Chico.  He has 5 surviving nieces and nephews who grew up in Orland: Pastor Denton Kees, Bette Harrison, Judy Joksch, Pastor Bill Kees and Lembit Ratassepp. Services will be held at Trinity Lutheran Church, Bismarck, ND on Sunday, October 12 at 2:00 pm.  (submitted 10/10/2008)   William Benbow, '51, died April 28. Before his passing, William served as visitation and assistant pastor at St. Mark's Lutheran Church, West Des Moines, Iowa. He is survived by two daughters and one son.  (submitted 4/16/2002)   Joel Jorgenson, '51, died Nov. 5, 2002 at his home in Springdale, Ark.  During his years of full time ministry, he served parishes in Iowa and Michigan before retiring to Arkansas in 1984.  He was a World War II Army Air Corps veteran.  He is survived by his wife, Louetta, two sons, one daughter, one sister, five grandchildren and two great-grandchildren.  (submitted 2/3/2003)   Michael D. Furney, '51, died in August at his home in Mesa, Ariz. Before attending seminary, he enlisted in the army in WWII and served in the South Pacific for nearly three years. He felt a call to the ministry while serving overseas and gave his first sermon on Thanksgiving Day on board ship coming home. When discharged, he continued his studies and graduated from Augsburg College, Minneapolis. He completed his postgraduate studies at Northwestern Lutheran Theological Seminary in 1951 and was ordained in May that year. Furney began his ministry at Calvary Lutheran in Edina. He organized Prince of Peace in Detroit and Valley of Peace Lutheran in Golden Valley, Minn. He served many years at Redeemer Lutheran in Minneapolis and later at Bethlehem Lutheran in Bayport, Minn. After retiring in 1983, he continued his ministry part-time at congregations in St. Paul, Minn. In 1993 he, along with his wife, Elaine, and son Robert, moved to Mesa. There he served for several years at Good Shepherd Lutheran Church. Last September he and Elaine celebrated their 56th wedding anniversary. He is survived by his wife, two sons, a daughter, four grandchildren, two brothers, and many brothers- and sisters-in-law, nieces, nephews and friends.  (submitted 11/5/2003)   Richard Torgerson, '51, died on Jan. 19. He lived in Canoga Park, Calif.  (submitted 3/16/2004)   David D. Larsen, '51, died on June 20, 2004 at MeritCare Hospital in Fargo, ND. A retired pastor, Larsen served as visitation pastor at First Lutheran in Fargo. In his years of ministry as a senior pastor, he led congregations in Minnesota, North Dakota, Oregon, Idaho and Washington. He is survived by his wife, Marguerite, six children, eight grandchildren, one brother and several nieces and nephews.  (submitted 11/4/2004)   Clifford Grindland, '51, died in September, 2009. Funeral services were held on September 15, 2009 at Calvary Lutheran Church in Alexandria, Minn. During his 39 years of ministry, Cliff served parishes in Maskell, Obert and Wynot, Neb.(1951-54); St. John's Lutheran in Webster, S.D. (1954-60); First Lutheran in Morris, Minn.(1960-84) and as interim pastor at Marietta and Nassau Lutheran Churches (1985-91). He is survived by his wife, Enid, and four children.  (submitted 9/17/2009)   Rolf Aaseng, '50, received an alumni achievement award from Concordia College, Moorhead, Minn. He was one of four distinguished alumni recognized for exemplary service and contributions to their communities. A prolific writer, Aaseng is a retired editor of 20 years with the Lutheran Teacher, The Lutheran Standard and Augsburg Publishing House. He has authored 14 books and hundreds of articles for Christian publications.  (submitted 4/16/2002)   Kenneth Christopherson, '50, continues to lead international tours with his wife, Phyliss. They have led 20 tours to 52 destinations on six continents. They will travel to France later this year. Ken continues as Protestant chaplain at Crystal Mountain Ski Resort Chapel. He retired in 1991 as professor of church history at Pacific Lutheran University in Tacoma, Wash.  (submitted 6/26/2003)

The 40s - back to the top

Ray Mathsen, '48, died Sept 4, 2008 in Surprise, Ariz. He was 78. Mathsen was the Head Pastor at Our Saviors Lutheran Church in Lake Oswego, Ore. for 27 years from 1959 to 1986. He is survived by his wife, four children and 13 grandchildren. He is preceded in death by his son.  (submitted 1/13/2009)   Conrad Thompson, '45, died July 18. Thompson is remembered for his ministry with Lutheran Vespers. He also led congregations in Minnesota and South Dakota. From 1951 to 1970 he served as director for evangelism in the former Congress on Evangelism held in Minneapolis in 1969. He served as a delegate to International Congresses on World Evangelization in Berlin, Germany and Lausanne, Switzerland. He was a member of the Commission on Evangelism and Stewardship of the Lutheran World Federation. He is the author of several articles and booklets on marriage, spiritual healing and family. He is survived by his wife, Swanhild, a daughter, three sons, 10 grandchildren and four great grandchildren.  (submitted 4/16/2002)   Alvin L. Selid, '45, died in March. His years in parish ministry include service to congregations in North Dakota, Oregon and Washington. In 1990, he received honorary recognition as pastor emeritus at St. Matthew's Lutheran Church in Beaverton, Ore. He is survived by his wife, Borghild, two sons, four daughters, 13 grandchildren, four great-grandchildren, one brother and two sisters.  (submitted 11/22/2002)   Lowell Swantz, '45, died in January. Ordained in 1945, he was called to serve as a pastor at Our Savior's Lutheran in Clarkston, Wash. In 1952 he started a new church in Great Falls, Mont. He has led congregations in Montana, Idaho, Michigan, Wisconsin and North Dakota. He retired from full-time ministry in 1998. He is survived by his wife, Gertrude, a son, three daughters, five grandchildren, a great grandchild, a brother and a sister.  (submitted 6/26/2003)   Robert Paul Roth’s, '45, books will be republished this spring by Wipf and Stock Publishers. Story and Reality was first published in 1973 by Eerdmans and was reviewed in Newsweek magazine at the time because it broke ground for narrative theology. The Theatre of God was first published by Fortress Press in 1985. Lee Snook, professor emeritus of systematic theology at Luther Seminary, has written forwards for both books.  (submitted 3/10/2005)   George Dressler, '45, died Dec. 7, 2005. Dressler served as pastor of Faith Lutheran Church in Tampa, Fl. After his retirement, he was chaplain at Universtiy Community Hospital. He is survived by his wife, Harriet, two sons, a daughter, six grandchildren, one great-granchild, and two sisters.  (submitted 2/13/2006)   Robert Roth, '45, has published a novel "Freedom at Last" Wipf and Stock, Eugene, Oregon, 2007. This is a story about the birth of a new India through their struggle for independence, 1947-1948. IT is a human interest tale in which characters under duress become vehicles for significant social and political comment. Offering more than political commentary or local color, however, "Freedom at Last" reveals the irony of small-town life in uncertain times. Brimming with compelling characters, this novel brings readers close to ambiguities in both missionary activity and political empire. Dr. Roth has also recently published a collection of essay on revelation titled "Divine Disclosure," or licorice from the box of God.  (submitted 4/4/2007)   Merton Strommen, '44, along with co-authors Karen Jones and David Rahn, published Youth Ministry that Transforms: A Comprehensive Analysis of the Hopes, Frustrations, and Effectiveness of Today's Youth Workers (Zondervan). The book examines the findings of the most exhaustive study of Protestant youth ministers in America.  (submitted 11/22/2002)   Walter Gravrock, '43, died of Parkinson's disease in April. His pastoral career spanned more than 40 years. He served congregations in Minnesota, California and Washington. He is survived by three children and ten grandchildren.  (submitted 6/14/2002)   Syndey Rand, '43, died on Dec. 17, 2003. Rand was a former president of Waldorf College, Forest City, Iowa, and St. Olaf College, Northfield, Minn., served as the U.S. ambassador to Norway, and as an interim president in several colleges. He had experienced several health problems in recent months. He is survived by his wife, Lois, two children, three step-children, nine grand- and seven great-grandchildren, and a brother.  (submitted 3/16/2004)   Owen Gangstead, '43, died on June 17, 2004. Following his ordination in 1943, he served congregations in Minnesota, Illinois and Iowa. He also served as director of church relations at Luther College, Decorah, Iowa, until his retirement in January 1979. He is survived by four children, Lois, Rebecca, Stephen and Daniel.  (submitted 7/26/2004)   A.R. Herbert Johnson, '43, passed away on October 15, 2008 at the age of 93. He was surrounded by his loving family. Pastor Johnson, born in Brandon, SD, graduated from Augustana College in Sioux Falls, SD. He taught music in Iowa for 2 years before entering Luther Seminary in St. Paul, MN where he received his Master of Divinity in 1943.  He married Ione Anderson of Rice Lake, WI and just celebrated 65 years of marriage. He served Lutheran congregations in St. Paul, MN, Albert Lea, MN, Pacoima, CA and Lemon Grove, CA where he retired in 1981. He is survived by his wife, Ione Johnson, daughters Doris Hetrick, Carmen Berry, Gretchen Tweet, 8 grandchildren, 6 great grandchildren, and a brother, Richard Johnson.   (submitted 10/31/2008)   Orin Dean Thompson, '42, died Sept. 12, 2002 of an aortic aneurysm.  He was 86.  He served parishes in Montana and Minnesota for 49 years.  He was associate pastor of Central Lutheran Church, Minneapolis, for 20 years before retiring in 1981.  Two years later he was called as chaplain at Ebenezer Nursing Home in Minneapolis where he served for 10 years.  He is survived by his wife, Doris, daughters Susan White, Ann Foesh and Faith Burch, son Mark Thompson, eight granddaughters and three great-grandchildren.  (submitted 11/21/2002)   Alfred Sevig, '42, celebrated his 60th anniversary of ordination in July. He has led congregations in Canada, Minnesota and South Dakota. Semi-retired, he continues his service as a hospital chaplain, pulpit supply pastor and visitation pastor. He is a volunteer visitor at Calvary Lutheran Church in Willmar, Minn.  (submitted 11/22/2002)   Oscar Anderson, '42, died Aug. 25. He was 89. Anderson served parishes in Minneapolis and Moorhead before becoming president of Augsburg College, Minneapolis, from 1963-1980. During that time the campus more than doubled in size.  (submitted 10/28/2005)   Solberg Clarence, '42, died October, 2004.  He served as a pastor, member of the Home Mission staff in the ELC, and eventually as bishop in the ALC.  He retired as bishop of the North Pacifc District.  In 1981, he and his wife, Helen, coordinated contact with all 41 members of his class. Solberg's fellow classmates express deep appreciation for his work encouraging the classmates to "keep in touch."  (submitted 2/16/2006)   Ragnvald Severin Aanestad, '42, died November 14 at the age of 98.  Aanestad graduated from Luther Seminary with a Master of Divinity and served calls in Montana, North Dakota, and Minnesota for over 40 years.  (submitted 11/19/2008)   Arndt L. Halvorson, '40, Luther Seminary gives thanks for the witness and wisdom of Professor Emeritus Arndt L. Halvorson, who died Jan. 31, 2006.  He  was visiting professor of homiletics from 1954-1957, and professor of practical theology from 1959-1982. A nationally recognized preacher, scholar and author, he was also known for his warmth, wisdom and humor.  (submitted 3/31/2006)

The 30s - back to the top

Raymond Olson, '39, died peacefully Saturday, October 21. He was 96. Raymond served as the second president of California Lutheran University. He is a formal General Secretary for Stewardship for the American Lutheran Church. He received an Honorary Degree of Doctor of Divinity, Augustana College, in 1954, and an Honorary Degree of Doctor of Laws, Cal Lutheran, 1971. He served on the National Luterhan Council, Lutheran World Federation, Lutheran Council in the USA, National Council fo Churches and World Council of Churches from 1953-1970.  (submitted 11/8/2006)   Alfred Syverud, '37, will celebrate the 65th anniversary of his ordination in June. He and his wife, Genevieve, live in Walnut Creek, Calif.  (submitted 6/14/2002)   Richard Knudsen, '37, age 95, of Minneapolis, Minnesota, passed away July 10, 2007  (submitted 8/22/2007)   E. Clifford Nelson, '36, died Feb. 5, 2005. He is remembered for his long and distinguished service as a pastor, scholar, teacher and writer. In addition to serving congregations in Chicago, Ellendale, Minn. and Minneapolis, he worked for the US State Department and US High Commissioner in Germany as the religious affairs advisor. After earning a doctorate degree from Yale University and post-doctorate research in Europe, Clifford taught at Luther Theological Seminary (predecessor of Luther Seminary) and served as dean of the faculty in 1961-1964. He later became the director of the Lutheran World Federation Assembly, held in Minneapolis in 1957. From 1966-1976 Nelson completed his teaching career as professor of religion at St. Olaf College where he was honored with the college's distinguished alumnus award and regents award. His interest in historical research led him to author and edit books and articles for journals and various publications. His major works include The Lutheran Church Among Norwegian Americans (coauthored with Eugene Fevold), The Lutherans In North America, Lutheranism in North America 1914-1970 and The Rise of World Lutheranism. He is survived by his wife, Lois, three children, eight grandchildren, eight great grandchildren and two sisters.  (submitted 3/10/2005)   Jacob Enderson, '31, died in March. He began 38 years of service in full-time ministry at his first congregation in South Dakota in 1931. Throughout his ministry he has also led congregations in Montana and Iowa. In 1941 he became president of the Rocky Mountain District of Lutheran Pastors. In his retirement, he served as an interim pastor. He is survived by two daughters, a brother, five grandchildren and eight great grandchildren.  (submitted 6/26/2003)

The 0s - back to the top

Fred Ringham, ', died Sept. 8, 2002.  He served as chair of the boards of Luther Seminary antecedents Northwestern Seminary and Northwestern Lutheran Theological Seminary.  In 1982, he co-chaired the committee to merge Luther and Northwestern theological seminaries.   He is survived by his wife Norma, son Eric, two daughters Jody Ronsheim and Kathy Teigland, and seven grandchildren.  (submitted 11/21/2002)   Cyril Fayose, , has been named the next President of Trinity Theological Seminary starting September 1, 2006. Cyril says, "It is an awesome responsibility to shoulder alone without your prayer support and the abundant grace of God. So bear me up in your prayers. Shalom and God bless you."  (submitted 7/24/2006)   Gladys Sandgren, , who was a member of the Luther Seminary staff for more than 30 years, passed away Jan. 12, 2006. She was preceded in death by her husband, Walter, in 2003. Walter Sandgren was a maintenance worker for 45 years. Sandgren Apartments were named for him in 1982. A memorial service for Gladys was held at St. Anthony Park Lutheran Church in February.  (submitted 2/7/2008)