1. business and industrial
2. company
3. annual report

J A NU A R Y 2 0 1 5
Annual Report
INSIDE THIS ISSUE:
List of Current Chairs
Nominees for 2015 Boards
Meeting Minutes
2015 Annual Meeting Agenda
Meeting Minutes, cont
Statistical Report
Pastoral Acts
Opening Devotions (see inside front cover of annual report)
Call to Order
Members use Microphone to allow all to hear
2014 Baptisms
President’s Report
Pastor’s Report
Approval of the 2015 Annual Meeting Agenda
Approval of the minutes of the 2014 Annual Meeting
Pastors’ Report cont.
Youth Ministry Board
Treasurer’s Report
Reports:
2015 Budget
President Report
Endowment Fund
WELCA President
Pastor Dan and Pastor Laura Overbo
Treasurer 2014 Report
Education Board
Hospitality Board
Properties Board
Social Concerns Board
Stewardship Board
WELCA Finances
Old Business:
None
WELCA
WELCA, continued
New Business:
Vote for 2015 Board Nominees
Presentation and Approval of the 2015 Budget
Mission Action
Preschool
Preschool Finances
Closing:
Lord’s Prayer and singing of the table prayer
Cemetery Assoc.
Endowment Fund
Bishop’s Letter
Lutheran Outdoors
Synod Budget
A NNUAL R EPORT
Annual Report
First Lutheran Church
Volga, South Dakota
January 1, 2014—December 31, 2014
Daniel Overbo and Laura Overbo, Pastors
Congregational Officers
President
Erik Schlimmer
Vice President
Keith King
Secretary
Wendi Peterson
Treasurer
Julie King
Board of Worship/Hospitality . . . . . . Alicia Burmeister
Board of Education . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Amanda Larson
Board of Properties . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Todd Vander Wal
Board of Stewardship . . . . . . . . . . . . Deanna Wilson
Board of Social Concerns . . . . . . . . . . Kathy Heylens
Board of Youth Ministry . . . . . . . . . . . Matt & Kerri Wagner
President of WELCA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Dorothy Weisser
Nominees for Church Boards
President: Keith King
Vice President: Judd Guthmiller
Secretary: Wendi Peterson
Treasurer: Julie King
Board of Education
Amanda Larson-Chair
Kristen Coon
Karen Barsness
Ashley Collins
Jaclyn Guthmiller
Amber Hemmestad
Board of Hospitality/Worship
Brittney Meyer-Chair
Tammy Karlstad
Ann Howell
Lyndsey Heylens
Katie Severson
Board of Properties
Todd Vander Wal-Chair
Eric Barsness
Wayne Smedsrud
Mike Collins
Eric Benson
Cheryl Granum
Amy Chirstopherson
Board of Social Concerns
Kathy Heylens-Chair
Betty Knutsen
Kim Dahl
Kayleen Bleeker
Kendra Deibert
Andrea Warne
Board of Stewardship
Barb Hillestad-Chair
Reed Schade
Linda Lemme
Brianne Bolstad
Chris & Stephanie Sandmeier
Amy Forbes
Board of Youth Ministry
Matt & Kerri Wagner-Chair
Kim & Tom Jacobson
Tina & Glenn Sheets
Christianne Beringer
Endowment Fund
Eric Bothun-Chair
Bob Orcutt
Auditing Committee
Ellen Young
Colleen Knutson
Synod Assembly Delegates
Cemetery Board
Craig Leite-Chair
Wayne Smedsrud
Danny Nelson
Paul Nelson
Dianna Stegge
Vibrant Faith Team
Amy Schlimmer
Colleen Knutson
Rod Hageman
Melanie Hageman
Cheryl Granum
Karen Larson
Jaclyn Guthmiller
A NNUAL R EPORT
Annual Meeting Minutes—January 29, 2012
Annual Meeting Minutes January 26, 2014
Devotions
Pastor Dan Overbo led the congregation in the devotions printed on the inside cover of the annual report.
Meeting
President Erik Schlimmer called the meeting to order at 10:28 a.m. He indicated that there will be a report from the
Cemetery Board and asked if there were any other additions needed for the agenda. No other additions were made.
Teresa Seefeldt motioned to approve the 2014 Annual Meeting Agenda. Eric Bothun seconded the motion. Motion carried.
Wayne Smedsrud motioned to approve the 2013 Annual Meeting minutes. Larry Ust seconded the motion. Motion carried.
Reports
President’s Report
President Schlimmer invited everyone to review the Annual report. He thanked the congregation for the opportunity to
serve as president. An additional thank you was extended to Pastors Dan and Laura for their support, the Council and board
members that take time out of their busy schedules to attend meetings, and funeral workers for their time volunteered. He
noted that there is a list of funerals in the Annual Report and added Lela Vostad to the list.
Endowment Fund
Eric Bothun referred to the Endowment Fund Report printed in the Annual Report. He noted that the Endowment fund
increased by approximately $8,000 this year from the ELCA Endowment fund investments, and reviewed balances and
distributions printed in the report.
Cemetery Board
Craig Leite had the ushers pass out reports for the congregation to review. He noted that the current balance will provide
maintenance for 2.2 more years. He indicated that they would like to begin an endowment fund for the cemetery for
continued maintenance. A slide was shown of the financials and noted that the weather has an impact on maintenance costs.
He extended a thank you to all of the volunteers that helped with spring cleanup at the cemetery, the volunteer fire
department for burning the fence line, and Spencer Hanson and his family for their great job of mowing.
Reference was made to the Gift Acceptance Agreement. Mr. Leite requested that the congregation consider donating to the
endowment fund to allow for perpetual care for eternity for the Berg and FLC cemeteries. He asked if there were any
questions. Jim Shade noted that this is a very important task, applauded the board’s efforts, and asked if they have a goal in
mind. Mr. Leite indicated that with their projection of interest income they have a goal of a fund balance of $250,000. He
asked if there were any additional questions, of which there were none. He thanked the congregation for their time and
prayerful consideration of this giving opportunity.
WELCA
Ellen Young indicated that she had nothing to add to the WELCA report as printed.
Pastors Report
Pastor Dan extended a thank you for previously approving a sabbatical for him and Pastor Laura. He referenced their report
on page 6 of the Annual Report and noted that we are blessed with a Bishop that emphasizes the sabbatical to every
congregation in our Synod. The first focus of the sabbatical time is to renew themselves spiritually and physically and
strengthening their connection with their children. The second focus will be further development of group building
activities for church groups. He shared his experience with a training class he attended 2 years ago on team building and his
plans to work with experts in developing a resource for team building activities for all churches. He noted that Jim LaDoux
and Vibrant Faith are very excited about the plans for developing the team building program. Pastor Dan asked that he be
contacted if anyone has questions about their sabbatical.
Pastor Dan announced that Pastor Herb Woundedhead, campus pastor at SDSU, and friend of the pastors will be filling in
while they are on sabbatical. He noted that if they are in the state, they will return to perform weddings and funerals.
Pastor Laura thanked the congregation for almost 7 years at FLC and the encouragement of being open to trying new things.
She gave credit to FLC for the daily excitement of trying fun ways to connect faith to every day life and trying new things
for worship that aren’t done in other congregations. She thanked the congregation for their faithfulness and for being the
hands and feet of Christ as they go out into the world.
She referenced the Preschool report on page 17 and noted she is the liaison between FLC and the preschool program. She
has had the wonderful privilege of working with Twila who will be retiring at the end of the school year. She expressed that
FLC has a great facility and wants to continue the preschool program. A committee will be formed to continue to be the
liaison and to evaluate the program and needs of the community. They will call on the Personnel Committee to hire a new
preschool teacher. She invited the congregation to share their ideas and questions with her.
Treasurer’s Report
President Schlimmer referred the congregation to the Treasurer’s report as printed in the Annual Report on page 8. There
were no questions or concerns regarding the treasurer’s report.
Old Business
None
New Business
Vote for 2014 Board Nominees
President Schlimmer referenced the Board Nominees listed on page 2 of the Annual Report and the slide on the screen that
noted new members in red after the report was printed. He noted that there is still an opening for Synod Assembly delegates
and asked that if anyone is interested, they should talk to him or Pastor Dan.
A ballot vote for approval of 2014 Board Nominees passed unanimously.
Presentation and Approval of the 2014 Budget
President Schlimmer referred to the slide on the screen and noted that the changes are minimal. He commented that the
pastor’s salary is based on Synod guidelines. The other salaries increased 3%, with the exception of the secretary, which is
slightly higher, due to increased responsibilities. He noted that the health insurance rate was reduced due to the insurer’s
plan and the pastor’s young ages. The Synod, Nation and World Ministry budget reflects the need for increased funding for
Nicaragua missions and a 9% tithe of total budget. President Schlimmer indicated that we are working our way back to
tithing 10% for these missions. He noted that the current per giving unit is slightly less than what is needed for the proposed
budget and asked that the congregation consider a slight increase in their giving. There were no questions regarding the
proposed budget.
A ballot vote for approval of the 2014 Proposed Budget passed unanimously.
Closing
Marty Strasburg motioned to adjourn the meeting. Deanna Wilson seconded, motion carried. The meeting was adjourned
with The Lord’s Prayer.
Wendi Peterson, Secretary
A NNUAL R EPORT
2012 Statistical Report
Active Membership:
Baptized
1281
Confirmed
939
Family Units
368
2013
Active Membership: 2014
Baptized
1304
Confirmed
953
Family Units
386
Average Weekly Attendance by Year:
2013– 225*
2014-229*
*many weeks no attendance recorded
Pastoral Acts
Baptisms: 23
Lucius Viktor Alan Vostad, Harrison ScottDoescher, Avery Marie Sandmeier, Gabriel Henry Hanson,
Logan Adrianna Hanson, Xander Joe Sheets, Hudson Joseph Janssen, Hope Marie Janssen, Adalyn Joy
Howell, Korbin Logan Barse, Grady Matthews Loen, Hayden Harris Steen, Leia Marie King, Kyler
Steven Hemmestad, Connor Mark Howell, Grady Jon Langstraat, Gwen Kristine Otteson, Abigail Jo
Santema, Madison Rae Bohnet, Zadie Elizabeth Hanson, James Steven Hanson, Avalyn Marie Meyer,
Andi Grace Sundberg,
Confirmed: 14
Kaitlyn Dawn Bassett, Nathan Douglas Christensen, Natalie Marie Gunderson, Sydney JoAnn
Gunderson, Alyssa Janine Haaland, Cade Wayne Koerlin, Chloe Janiece Larsen, Silas Gene Larsen,
Steven Dale Riedel, Hannah Lee Osterberg, Andi May Seibel, Nick Charles Strasburg, Brooklin Kae
Vander Wal, Tayton Jarvis Vincent
Weddings: 4
Danielle Jean (Rinehart) & Caleb Paul Svartoien, Samantha Jo (Holderby) & Lane Gregory Docter,
Shawna (Rewer) & Adam Pack, Brandi (Stewart) & John Mutziger
Funerals: 9
Kathryn Anne Fjeld Jones, Edgar B. Gunderson, Kenneth L. Liebsch, , Dale Eugene Nelson, Nancy
Jean Lee, Helen Ann Peterson, Gordon Wallace Hillestad, Bonnie Knutson, George Curtis Magestad
New Members: 18
Transfer Out: 16
President’s Report to the Congregation
President Report
Thank you for allowing me the privilege of serving you, First Lutheran, as president over the last two years. It
was a learning and enjoyable experience for me. The Pastors, Staff Members, Planning Council, and Board
members are responsible for the success of our congregation. They are the faces that represent all of the
loving, kind, and caring members of our congregation. We all owe them a debt of gratitude for all of their
cooperation, hard work, and service.
2014 was a year of "new" here at First Lutheran. We started the year with many new board and council
members who have done a fantastic job. Their dedication is amazing to watch. We also saw new carpet
installed in the fellowship area and a new, more welcoming window to the secretaries office. I think that
everyone can agree that these improvements look great. The most exciting new step for our church was the
sabbatical that we provided for the Pastors. It was a very generous gift, given by you, the congregation, to
allow the Pastors some time of rest and renewal. That experience has allowed them the ability to serve us
better. It was honestly a gift that we gave back to ourselves.
The last new item for the year is a challenge, from me to you, to help us live out our goal of "inviting,
connecting, and growing." Invite people. Take a chance. Many people are looking for a spiritual home, and
just need an invitation to join us. Connect with someone new. Say "hello." Introduce yourself. Make people
feel welcomed the way that you want to feel welcomed. I know for a fact that we have members here, some of
them close friends, because someone struck up a conversation with them after church. Growing. This will
come naturally if you follow the first two steps. In fact, it will be unavoidable. We will all grow stronger and
closer together.
Thank you for all of your prayers and support these last two years. It has been an honor.
In Christ,
Erik Schlimmer, President
Pastors’ Report
Dear Disciples of Christ,
Thank you for supporting the mission and ministry of First Lutheran. Through your active participation and
generosity, you are saying YES to our mission: It’s about Life: Inviting, Connecting and Growing.
First Lutheran with over 1,000 members is a church that is constantly in mission.
We, the members of this church are the hands and feet of God:
When we offer 25 Milestones and Family Sunday School Classes
Have over 180 Sunday School Children ages 3 years through 12th grade
Enjoy time with two Youth Groups who meet each month and have attended some fun events and gone on
a few trips
Offer 13 Families Thanksgiving Meals
Help 17 Families Celebrate Christmas
Are blessed with a vibrant group of board members and council members
Sabbatical that provided a time of renewal personally, professionally and spiritually
A NNUAL R EPORT
Pastors’ Report, continued
These things don’t just happen. They take hard work, volunteer hours, attendance and financial support.
These hands-on, local ministries are examples of the work that you carry out that impact many of our sisters
and brothers in Christ.
The offering gifts you share with First Lutheran make vital ministry and mission possible. This money
provides salary for pastors and staff, supplies for ministry and worship, and relationships that enable us to
carry out God’s work in this community and throughout the world:
So that a new missionary can be installed in Nicaragua
Ministry is supported in Cameroon
A generator is installed at a hospital in Cameroon providing life-saving electricity during frequent power
outages.
New X Ray machine for hospital in Gara Boli, Cameroon
As we reflect on 2014, we remember the abundance God has so freely shared with us. We are so grateful to
have had time with family during sabbatical and look forward to continuing to use the group building games
and Bible studies at events in the coming year. “And God is able to provide you with every blessing in
abundance, so that by always having enough of everything; you may share abundantly in every good
work” (2 Corinthians 9:8).
There’s always more than enough good work to be done- people to feed, milestones to teach, and lives to be
transformed. And God has entrusted this work to our hands- our human hands. What a gift, and what an
opportunity!
Board of Youth Ministry
As Co-Chairpersons of the Youth Board for the first time, Kerri and I learned how challenging and rewarding it is to be
involved with the youth of FLC. As the board considered what we wanted to accomplish during our tenure the consensus was
growing the faith of our youth. We felt that in all the activities we participated in, our goal was to help the youth understand how it
relates to God, and how we can tie it to our walk with God on a daily basis. Whether it was serving others, fellowship with peers,
Sunday School, worship, and even the struggles of everyday life, we strived to build an understanding that God has a plan for us and
in all things give thanks to God.
Our first opportunity to work towards this goal was our Easter Breakfast. We were very blessed to have remarkable
participation and attendance. We followed with our second of three major commitments of congregational and community service
with the Old Timer’s Day event. Again we had great success. From set up, serving, and tear down our youth did a great job working
together exemplifying the outstanding character of the young people in our congregation. The third and final event of the summer
was the Golf Tournament. This is always a fun event where members of the congregation have a great opportunity to not only
support our youth but fellowship with them as well. The Lord blessed us with a beautiful day and all involved enjoyed themselves
greatly.
Needless to say it was the hard work of our board and that of the youth, not to mention the unbelievable support of our
congregation and community that made all these events possible. However it was only by the grace of God that made them
successful.
From the beginning it was apparent that our youth were eager to participate and we wanted to do our best to capitalize on
that interest and work towards our goal of growing faith. We began discussing different opportunities that we could do just that. We
are currently working on a trip sending our middle school and high school youth with the intent of serving others less fortunate, time
to fellowship, and , of course, growing their faith!
I will admit when we were asked to serve on the youth board both Kerri and I were a little anxious. Inexperienced, we were
unsure how we were going to perform and did not want to let the kids down. Fortunately we have an unbelievable group of people
serving on the board with us that truly make it happen. In addition, our church is so blessed to have two pastors like Dan and Laura
that feel so passionate about our youth and do a tremendous job guiding not only them but the board as well.
Looking back on the year I realize how fortunate we are to be members of FLC. I am thankful for the opportunity to have
been part of the youth board and watch the work God is doing in their lives. In addition, I am most thankful that it has helped me to
remember that growing a person’s faith never ends. It has reminded me that He is still working on me, on us all. We look forward to
the coming year, continuing our walk with God together. –Matt Wagner
2014 Treasurer's Report
MMDA
1/1/2014 Beginning Balance
Income:
Local Needs
Maintenance
Keep Kids Camping
Memorials
Kitchen
Feeding the Flock
Music
Special Projects
Interest
$42,370.87
$1,492.00
$14,875.51
$1,495.00
$4,793.20
$565.00
$1,925.00
$195.00
$1,288.00
$48.34
Total Income
Expenses:
Local Needs
$964.30
Maintenance
$17,127.21
Keeps Kids Camping
Memorial
Kitchen
Feeding the Flock
Special Projects
$1,830.90
$2,453.10
$893.00
$1,844.63
$1,007.00
Sabbatical
Congregation Giving
Turkey Dinner, Congregation Giving
Congregation Giving, Memorials
Cookbook sales, Memorials, Cong. Giving
Parishioner giving
Defibrillator, T-shirts
$26,677.05
Meals for local families, Gift cards
Carpet, Drinking fountain, Roll up window in
office, Balcony work, Back entry heater
Camper scholarships, Flashlight key chains
Paraments
Refrigerator
Defibrillator
Pastors accrued continuing ed money used for
sabbatical that was received and grant from
synod
$10,521.24
-$36,641.38
Total Expenses
$32,406.54
12/31/2014 Ending Balance
Checking
1/1/2014 Beginning Balance
Income:
Offerings/Donations
Preschool, Weddings
-$2,695.21
$263,251.76
$3,305.00
Total Income
Expenses:
Church Expenses
$51,671.60
Staff Expenses
$170,165.09
Ministry/Board
Expenses
$25,630.17
Benevolences
$17,166.50
$1,400.00
Weddings
Total Expenses
12/31/2014 Ending Balance
$266,556.76
-$266,033.36
-$2,171.81
43,711
1,000
32,783
18,600
1,500
3,502
4,850
7,977
1,500
1,125
2,000
1,500
3,839
3,000
3,890
2,849
16,815
11,894
1,000
750
3,000
2,250
2,400
Local Staff Ministry
Full Time Pastor Salary
Supply Pastor
Three Quarters Time Pastor Salary
Church Secretary
Nursery Staff
Sunday Worship Coordinator
Organists/Musicians/Pianists Salary
Custodians Salary
Full Time Pastor Housing Equity
3/4 Time Pastor Housing Equity
Full Time Pastor Continuing Ed
3/4 Time Pastor Continuing Ed
Treasurer
Social Security and Taxes
FT Pastor Social Security
3/4 Pastor Social Security
FT Pastor Major Medical/Pension
3/4 Pastor Major Medical/Pension
FT Pastor Unreimbursed Medical
3/4 Pastor Unreimbursed Medical
FT Pastor Auto Expenses
3/4 Pastor Auto Expenses
Church Secretary Insurance
171,735
51,700
Subtotal
Subtotal
20,000
4,500
9,000
13,000
4,500
700
Church Home Expenses
Church Utilities
Parsonage Utilities
Insurance
Church Operating Supplies and Services
Worship Supplies
Adult Education
2014
Adopted
Budget
175,871
45,499
1,000
34,124
19,158
1,250
3,607
4,850
8,216
1,500
1,125
2,000
1,500
3,954
2,673
4,049
2,966
16,000
13,000
1,000
750
3,000
2,250
2,400
53,150
20,000
4,500
9,700
13,250
5,000
700
175,871
$186,655
$73,290
$259,945
$1,171
$98
Ministry of Our Congregation*
Board of Worship
Board of Hospitality
Board of Education
Board of Youth Ministry
Board of Social Concerns
Board of Stewardship
Board of Properties
53,150 Milestone Ministry
Conferences
Lutheran Scholarship fund
45,499 Subtotal
1,000 Synod, Nation and World Ministry*
34,124
19,158 Locally Determined
1,250 Answer the Call
3,607 SD Synod, National ELCA
4,850 Pine Ridge Mission
8,216 Lutheran Campus Ministry
1,500 Prison Ministry
1,125 Lutherans Outdoors
2,000 Lutheran Social Services
1,500 Nicaragua
3,954
2,673 Subtotal
4,049
2,966
16,000 Grand Total
13,000
1,000 Yearly cost / giving unit
750 Monthly cost / giving unit
3,000
2,250 Giving Units
2,400
20,000
4,500
9,700
13,250
5,000
700
2015
2015
Proposed Adopted
Budget
Budget
Regular Offerings=
Direct Deposits=
Total 2014 Income=
Offering per giving unit per year=
Offering per giving unit per month=
170,165
43,711
1,950
32,783
18,600
646
3,502
5,500
7,977
1,500
750
1,964
1,113
3,839
2,595
3,890
2,849
14,626
11,665
1,000
750
3,526
3,029
2,400
51,672
19,753
3,519
11,166
12,330
4,459
445
2014
Actual
Expenses
2015 Proposed Budget
First Lutheran Church, Volga, SD
167
1,250
8,000
1,250
1,250
1,250
1,250
1,250
1,500
17,167
264,634
1,192
99
500
1,250
15,700
1,250
1,250
1,250
1,250
1,250
1,000
24,700
272,485
1,244
104
222
0
745
4,927
406
58
532
13,919
4,826
217
0
25,630
1,237
103
274,571
18,500
500
1,000
11,000
1,000
1,000
1,000
1,000
1,000
1,000
250
1,000
5,000
1,000
300
500
13,000
4,000
1,000
1,000
27,050
1,237
103
274,571
18,500
500
1,000
11,000
1,000
1,000
1,000
1,000
1,000
1,000
250
1,000
5,000
1,000
300
500
13,000
4,000
1,000
1,000
27,050
2014
2015
2015
Actual
Proposed Adopted
Expenses
Budget Budget
250
1,000
5,000
300
300
500
12,000
3,000
1,000
1,000
24,350
2014
Adopted
Budget
Endowment Fund
CASH HOLDINGS
Face Value
Issue
Rate
$3,798.12
First National (checking)
0.00%
$8,538.40
Mission Plus(checking)ELCA Mission Investment Fund
0.40%
$12,336.52
SUB-TOTAL CASH
INVESTMENT INCOME HOLDINGS
Face Value
$98,597.96
Issue
ELCA Endowment Fund
$98,597.96
SUB-TOTAL INVESTMENT INCOME
EQUITY HOLDINGS
Market Value
$1,925.28
Issue
Units
Price
IBM Stock
12
$184.03
$1,925.28
SUB-TOTAL: EQUITIES
SUMMARY OF ENDOWMENT FUND HOLDINGS
$12,336.52
Cash Holdings
10.9%
$98,597.96
$1,925.28
Investment Income Holdings
Equity Holdings
87.4%
1.7%
$112,859.76
TOTAL VALUE OF INVESTMENTS
========
=========== ==
========== ========== ========== ========== ==========
Summary
12/31/2013 Investment
Gifts
Distribution
12/31/2014
Capital Fund
Mission Outreach Fund
Program Endowment
Organ/Chimes Fund
$19,733.32
$49,760.28
$32,409.44
$403.13
$102,306.17
Income(loss)
$2,043.68
$5,153.43
$3,356.48
$0.00
$10,553.59
$0.00
$0.00
$0.00
$0.00
$0.00
$0.00
$0.00
$0.00
$0.00
$0.00
$21,777.00
$54,913.71
$35,765.92
$403.13
$112,859.76
Board of Education
Board of Education
But Jesus said, “Let the little children come to me, and do not stop them; for it is to such as these that the kingdom of heaven belongs.” Matthew 19:14
Our Sunday school program continues to grow strong and the feedback from parents, members, and students is positive
and exciting! The Board of Education has met at least once every month to make sure all aspects of the Sunday school
program run smoothly and to support the dedicated Sunday school staff. First Lutheran is very blessed with people
willing to volunteer their time and talents teaching and living their faith with the children of our congregation. This year,
we have 20 teachers and approximately 180 kids registered between the ages of pre-school and 8th grade. We are
busting at the seams.
We stay busy and look ahead to our future with our ultimate goal in mind…..helping our students be disciples of God, to
be good Samaritans, and to be leaders in our church and community in faith by the choices they make and the kindness
they show. Other aspects of the education program include:
Creating and distributing a schedule of lessons for both teachers and parents. The Sunday School Bulletin Board in
the West Hallway, Facebook and the church website were used to post schedules and announcements.
Working in collaboration with the Praise Band to have the students participate in learning new Christian songs and
playing the bells.
Participation in individual crafts that support Christian learning and outreach with DakotaSun Assisted Living
residents.
FLC’s Family Sunday school program encourages parents to get involved in their child’s Christian education and is
facilitated by Pastors Laura and Dan Overbo.
The basis to so much of what we learn in Sunday school are lessons that extend a great amount of thought into how God
wants us to be. We learn this through Bible stories, service projects, joyful song, inspirational stories and video clips,
crafts and activities, and artistry! We are learning so much and having fun doing it! We are also learning Lifelong Faith
Skills such as:
Learning to navigate the Bible
Personalizing scripture (figuring out how this scripture fits into my life)
Dialogue with God (knowing that there are many ways to pray)
Curriculum:
From January to May 2014, we used a curriculum called Spark. The children worked out of our Bibles every week!
Pre-School – 2nd graders utilized the Spark Story Bible while 3rd – 6th grade used the Spark Bible to look up scripture
that goes along with the lesson.
From August to December, the Board of Education introduced the teachers and preschool through 6 th grade
students to a new curriculum called Whirl. The lessons began with students identifying where they are in the church
year. Then they watched an animated video with characters who model what it’s like for kids to live out their faith.
Students dug deeper into the lesson using either the Whirl Story Bible or Whirl NRSV Bible and creative leaflet activities.
Offering:
From January to April, our Sunday school kids raised over $200 in offering to make classroom improvements and were
rewarded with a Pajama Day in April. From August to December, our children at First Lutheran Church were busy raising
their offering money to be able to donate to the Lutheran Malaria Initiative. The money our program helped raise will go
toward the purchase of treated mosquito nets, as well as medical and educational resources. We were able to reach our
goal of raising $300.
Vacation Bible School:
Vacation Bible School was held on June 2- 5th for all community children ages 4 years old through 6th grade. The theme
this year was SonTreasure Island. At SonTreasure Island, the children played island games, create colorful crafts and
enjoyed snacks. But more importantly, they learned how to discover the rich treasure of God’s love through the life of
Jesus. More precious than gold, more lasting than diamonds, it is the greatest treasure of all—God’s love!
Christmas Program:
The Board of Education, along with the Praise Band organized the concert which was titled “Keeping Christ in
Christmas”. The goal was to spread Christmas joy and to help remind everyone to "Keep Christ in Christmas” this
holiday season! The Christmas Program was held on December 14th at 10:45am at the Sioux Valley middle school gym
due to the large attendance. The program was a huge success with 120+ 3 year olds thru 6th graders performing. There
were over 400 people in the audience. A huge thank you to Rod Hageman (music director), Rod King (guitar)
and Theresa Seefelt (piano) for helping with the concert.
We give thanks for the blessings of ministry shared in our Sunday School Program.
Respectfully submitted by~
Amanda Larson, Kristin Coon, Jaclyn Guthmiller, Amber Hemmestad, Karen Barsness & Ashley Collins
A NNUAL R EPORT
Board of Hospitality/Worship
This Year the Hospitality Committee worked on an array of projects. We hope you find the changes
and additions we made to be even more inviting and welcoming!
-addition of “I Spy “Bags for the children to use during services
-Fellowship area update, new chairs and tall top tables, ordered/received and assembled.
-ordered/received new pens with First Lutheran Volga information on them.
-tote bags ordered to be utilized for our visitor bags, and possibly for purchase.
-items inside Children’s busy bags have been updated on a regular basis, with new items ordered.
-Visitor bags maintained
-continue to have new member classes and orientation as needed.
-candles prepared for Christmas Eve service
-assist in the scheduling and preparation for a new church directory, pictures to be taken in January
2014
The hospitality Committee is always looking for new ideas and inspiration to help First Lutheran feel
like your second home! We encourage you to share any thoughts or ideas you may have for us.
Thank you!
Alicia Burmeister
Board of Properties
Thanks for generous donations there were many projects completed again this year at First Lutheran.
*Replaced windows in the boiler room
*Repaired west wall men’s restroom
*Adjusted stall doors in both restrooms
*Reinforced stairs leading to basement
*Installed new window in secretary’s office
*Added hand rails leading up to balcony
*New carpet installed in entry way and fellowship hall
Other miscellaneous items were taken care of as needed throughout the year as well. The properties board
thanks the congregation for all their support and looks forward to 2015.
Properties Board
Eric Benson
Mike Collins
Eric Barsness Wayne Smedsrud
Todd Vander Wal—Chair
Board of Social Concerns
The Board of Social Concerns
The mission of the Board of Social Concerns is to address social concerns and develop
programs to help those in need. This mission links with the mission of First Lutheran Church
– “We are inviting people to know Jesus Christ, connecting a living faith and growing in
ministry”.
Programs we were involved in the past year:
Prayer shawl and Feeding the Flock meals to local families
Coat and mitten “Share the Warmth” for Sioux Valley students
Back to School/Backpack project (school supplies)
Angel tree setup and gift distribution
Responsible for purchase, meal preparation, serving and cleanup for the Harvest Table
Coordinated Food Pantry drive at worship services
Health products drive/donation for the Domestic Abuse Shelter and families in Volga
Provided a meal for construction volunteers for the Brookings Area Habitat for Humanity
Program
Provided a meal and worshipped with SDSU students at the University Lutheran Center
The board would like to thank everyone for your support in our ministry. It is the support and
generosity of the church family that allows us to provide these services and resources.
In Christ,
Kayleen Bleeker
Kim Dahl
Kendra Deibert
Kathy Heylens
Betty Knutsen
A NNUAL R EPORT
Board of Stewardship
The Board of Stewardship would like to thank you for your faithful and generous giving
throughout this past year. We have so many ways to be good stewards of all God has given to
us. We strive toward year round stewardship with Vocational Stewardship in January, Healthier
Stewardship in February & March, Environment Stewardship in May, Recreational
Stewardship in June & July, Financial Stewardship in August through October and Family
Stewardship in November & December. This year Mark & Rosie Wagner donated towards a
defibrillator and the Stewardship board facilitated a campaign to raise the remaining funds. We
also filled a First Aid Cabinet that was donated by Ron & Barb Hillestad. We distributed seed
packets to all members this spring and also helped distribute a tree to each family unit. This
fall we hosted a Giving Celebration to thank the congregation for their stewardship throughout
the year.
We look forward to another great year as we live out our mission IT’S ABOUT LIFE!
In Christ,
Deanna Wilson
Women of the ELCA: Financial Report
FIRST LUTHERAN WOMEN OF THE ELCA, JANUARY 1, 2014
– DECEMBER 31, 2015
GENERAL FUND
BEGINNING BALANCE 1-1-14
$184.49
Receipts
Circle Offering
$940.00
ELCA General Meeting offerings
104.00
Serving
40.00
Country Store
1,759.60
Christmas Offering
200.00
Thankoffering
1,194.08
TOTAL RECEIPTS
$4,237.68
TOTAL RECEIPTS & BEG. BALANCE
$4422.17
DISBURSEMENTS
Women of ELCA (60% offerings)
582.60
Medary Conference Gathering offering 150.00
Candy’s Garden (Altar florwers)
63.10
Change for Country Store
100.00
Check Blanks
17.13
Women of ELCA (Synodical Assembly off. 150.00
Virginia Schlimmer (food)
12.17
Pastor Laura (gift)
75.00
Women of ELCA (Thankoffering)
597.08
First Lutheran Church (1/2 Thankoffering)597.00
World Hunger
1,485.50
First Lutheran (Keep Kids Camping)
165.00
The Banquet (Christmas Offering)
200.00
Leader Books
51.05
Post Office (stamps)
19.60
TOTAL DISBURSEMENTS
$4,265.23
BALANCE ON HAND 12-31-14
$ 156.94
SUNSHINE FUND
BEGINNING BALANCE 1-1-14
$ 577.73
RECEIPTS
Circle Offerings
$ 251.76
Memorials (quilters)
165.00
Quilt Sales
166.00
TOTAL RECEIPTS
$ 582.76
TOTAL RECEIPTS AND BEG. BALANCE
$1,160.49
DISBURSEMENTS
Oklee Quilting Co. (Batting)
95.22
May Speaker
75.00
HyVee (Flower Memorial)
79.60
Medary Conference (LWR Transportation) 50.00
Candy’s Garden (May Meeting)
33.63
TOTAL DIS URSEMENTS
$ 333.45
BALANCE ON HAND 12-31-14
$ 827.04
CARING COMMUNITY
BEGINNING BALANCE 1-1-14
$ 773.22
RECEIPTS
Coffee Fellowship
$ 484.19
Funeral Serving
2,050.00
Transfer from Savings
84.63
TOTAL RECEIPTS
$2,618.82
TOTAL RECEIPTS AND BEG. BALANCE
$3,392.04
DISBURSEMENTS
Jagers Grocery
$1,176.35
Coffee Pots (transfer from savings)
84.63
Roaster Liners
37.58
Lutheran Outdoors (donation)
200.00
Lutheran Social Services (donation)
200.00
St. Dysmas of South Dakota (donation)
100.00
Domestic Abuse Center (donation)
100.00
Leaders in Mission Endowment (donation)100.00
Advance Foundation (donation)
100.00
SDSU Lutheran Center (donation)
100.00
Chairs of Hope (donation)
100.00
Flandreau Indian School (donation)
100.00
Augustana Student Center (donation)
100.00
TOTAL DISBURSEMENTS
$2,498.56
BALANCE ON HAND 12-31-14
$ 893.48
IMPROVEMENT FUND (Savings)
BEGINNING BALANCE 1-1-14
$2,141.38
Receipts
Memorial
$ 25.00
Interest
$
2.04
TOTAL RECEIPTS
$ 27.04
TOTAL RECEIPTS AND BEG. BALANCE
$2,168.42
DISBURSEMENTS
Transfer to Checking
$ 84.63
BALANCE ON HAND 12-31-14
$2,083.79
A NNUAL R EPORT
Women of the ELCA
Women of the W/ELCA
Annual Report 2014
The W/ELCA organization offers an opportunity to all the women to become a member. We offer
three circle meetings monthly at different times and locations. At these meetings we enjoy a Bible
Study, prayer, fellowship and refreshments. There is no joining fee, no dues, and you receive a free
gift of the monthly magazine “Gather” for one year when you became an active member.
The Executive Board meets when needed and general meetings are held twice a year to handle
business. We end the year with a Christmas Festival.
Activities we enjoyed this year.
*March: We were guests of the Christian Reformed Church in Volga for World Day of Prayer.
First Lutheran Church in Volga will host in 2015, on March 7th.
*April: Medary Conference Spring Gathering was held at Trinity Lutheran Church in Madison,
South Dakota. We were unable to attend, an offering of $150.00 was sent.
*May: A general meeting was held honoring our Honorary Members. Dolly Oines lead us in
devotions and Marilyn Hesby and Barb Hillestad lead the memorial service for those who had passed
away in the past year. Beverly Kleinjan talked about the Giddens and the placement of Bibles. A
nominating Committee was chosen, they are Jerri Weinacht, Rosy Wagner, Donna Knutson and Helen
Peterson.
Ellen Young was elected to represent us at Church Council meetings for this year.
* June: W/ELCA Synodical Convention at First Lutheran Church, Brookings, South Dakota.
No one was able to attend, and offering of $150.00 was sent.
*September: We began this month with our new Bible study “Transforming Life and Faith.”
A study on how our faith journeys change by events and people we meet. Pastor Laura introduced the
Bible study at our general meeting in September.
September 16th the Medary Conference Retreat and new officers training was held in Badger South
Dakota, we were asked to bring mixed fruit for luncheon.
General meeting was held on September 18th with election of officers. It was voted on to give the
funds from the Country Store as follows, 90% to World Hunger and 10% to Keep Kids Camping. It
was voted on to give ½ of our Thank Offering to local needs and ½ to support the ministries of the
ELCA.
*October: Mission Action Kits and quilts were sent Lutheran World Relief.
*November: New Officers were installed and the Thankoffering was given at the Sunday Service.
The Pastors were given $550.00 to help with Thanksgiving dinners for 13 families.
Women of the ELCA, continued
*December: The Christmas Festival was held on December the 13th . We enjoyed a program of the
continuing story of “The Greatest Story Ever Told” our readers were Gladys Lee, Gerri Weinacht, and
Ellen Young. Devotions by Marilyn Hesby and Virginia Schlimmer our pianist. DawnTveito favored
us with a beautiful solo “Breath of Heaven.” Our Christmas offering went to the Children of the
Banquet. Refreshments were served by Dorcas Circle.
*Thanks to all everyone in this organization for your time, talents and fellowship, we are all greatly
rewarded.
2015 Officers:
President: Dorothy Weisser Vice Pres: we need one
Secretary: Gladys Lee
Treasurer: JoAnn Orcutt
Ass-Treas-Sect: Donavieve Tofte
Mission Growth: Ellen Young Asst: Gladys Lee
Mission Community: Marilyn Hesby Asst: Barb Hillestad
Mission Action: Jerri Weinacht Asst: Joan Trenhaile
Shalom ; Dorothy Weisser, President
WELCA Mission Action
Mission Action
Though we are fewer in numbers, we continue to assemble quilts for distribution to Lutheran World Relief.
This year we sent off 134- quilts, 8- Personal Care Kits, 8- Baby Care Kits, and 15- School Kits. We are ever
mindful of Jesus's command to help those around us. Our talents are not given to us to satisfy our own needs
but to also care for those who need assistance.
Thank you to all the ladies who are committed to our mission and take part in the assembling and distribution
of these items.
Quilts, surplus towels, sheets, and pillow cases were distributed to The Abuse Shelter in Brookings as well as
towels to the Preschool at First Lutheran in Volga as well as the preschool at First Lutheran in Brookings. Our
missions extend into our community because " If you have done it to the least of these, You have done it unto
me."
Jerri Weinacht, Mission Action
A NNUAL R EPORT
First Lutheran Preschool
During the 2014 fall semester there were 21 children in the Preschool attending two separate classes.
These classes included a 3 year old class with 8 children, a 4 year old class with 13 children, and a Junior
Kindergarten with 2 children attending. A new teacher brought new ideas, lesson plans, and activities for the
children this year and also encouraged parents to be involved in their child’s education.
Preschool Task Force members include Chrystal Wozniak, Amy Schlimmer, Laura Overbo, Julie King,
Nicole Keating, Janelle Keppen, Karen Larson, Jeff Hallin, and Melisa Zaug.
Tuition for the 3 Year old class was $85, 4 year old class was $100, and Junior Kindergarten was $180.
We had several fund raising activities including a jewelry fundraiser, Dairy Queen Fundraiser, and the annual
Winter Festival (formerly Festival of Trees). We will have several other fundraisers in the spring. We continue
to collect Hy-Vee receipts to earn $1000. We would like to thank the First Lutheran Church congregation for
its years of support and many donations.
Our teacher, Chrystal Wozniak, is in her first year of teaching at First Lutheran Preschool. She
graduated in August 2014 from SDSU with a degree in Early Childhood Education. She has enjoyed getting to
know the children in the classroom as well as First Lutheran Church staff and members.
First Lutheran Preschool: Financial Report
First Lutheran Preschool
School Year 2013/2014
9/1/2013
Checking balance
$1,669.56
Revenue
Tuition $12,551.00
Book orders $331.50
Fundraisers $4,197.00
DQ, HyVee, Dean Foods
$844.59
Total Revenue
$17,924.09
Expenses
payroll/payroll taxes $14,060.88
Book orders $410.52
Fundraisers $1,601.34
Rent $900.00
Operating Expenses $1,774.29
Total Expenses
-$18,747.03
8/31/2014
Checking balance
10/1/2013
Savings balance
interest earned
$0.71
9/15/2014
Savings balance
$846.62
$1,005.34
$1,006.05
Cemetery Association
Balance on hand January 1, 2014
First National Bank
Total:
$2,124.92
$2,124.92
Receipts:
1/29/2014 Memorial
2/10/2014 Donation
3/19/2014 Memorial
3/28/2014 Memorial
4/1/2014 Memorial
4/25/2014 Lots Sold
5/1/2014 Memorial
6/2/2014 Memorial
6/3/2014 Memorial
6/10/2014 Lots Sold
6/18/2014 Memorial
6/18/2014 Memorial
7/1/2014 Memorial
7/10/2014 Lots Sold
8/1/2014 Memorial
8/15/2014 Memorial
9/2/2014 Memorial
9/19/2014 Memorial
9/19/2014 Lots Sold
10/1/2014 Memorial
11/3/2014 Memorial
11/10/2014 Memorial
12/1/2014 Memorial
12/4/2014 Memorial
$60.00
$1,000.00
$45.00
$25.00
$10.00
$600.00
$10.00
$10.00
$5.00
$600.00
$70.00
$240.00
$10.00
$300.00
$10.00
$375.00
$10.00
$250.00
$600.00
$10.00
$10.00
$25.00
$10.00
$65.00
Transfers:
9/30/2014 Transfer in from CD BSF
12/30/2014 Transfer out to CD BSF
Total:
$17,165.15
$10,000.00
$11,515.15
Interest:
First National Bank
Total:
Total Receipts and Transfers:
Total Receipts, Transfers and Beginning Balance:
Disbursements:
City of Volga (lights)
Spraying
Mowing Hanson Enterprises
Insurance - Mortuary
Lowes Sign Posts and Hardware
Dennis Jorenby Stump Grinding
Outlaw Graphics Signs
$257.13
$257.13
$11,772.28
$13,897.20
$212.49
$450.00
$9,048.00
$87.00
$165.08
$26.00
$127.20
Total Disbursements:
$10,115.77
Year End Balance:
$3,781.43
Savings:
C.D. First National Bank
Dakotaland Federal Credit Union
$10,000.00
$1.09
Total Savings:
Please keep the cemetery fund in mind when making donation decisions.
With our current expenses and funds we have about 1.4 years
of operating funds available.
$10,001.09