2025 Leadership Churchly Ballot
The Nominating Committee has begun its work to invite St. Stephen members to serve as spiritual leaders beginning in February 2025. We will again utilize a process called “ecclesiastical” or “churchly” balloting. The process allows for all members of the congregation to lift up a name of someone whom they think has the gifts of discernment, holy wisdom, or the gifts of the Spirit (love, patience, peace and self-control) and a passion for the mission of St. Stephen Lutheran Church. For 2025, we are seeking leaders for the Congregation Council, Nominating Committee, Audit Committee, and Trust Fund.
The committee invites you to begin praying for this process, and to consider which members of this community might have these attributes. (That person might be YOU!). The churchly balloting process will take place during Sunday worship on October 13 and 20, and during Wednesday worship on October 16 and 23. An online ballot will also be available through October 25.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact any Nominating Committee member listed below. Their contact information is available in the Online Member Directory or from the church office.
Audrey Jones, Karen Huntley, Ardie Strawman and Marcia Klindt
Why are we changing how candidates are nominated? In the past, Nominating Committee invited individuals to consider accepting nominations to the council and committees. But this method is limiting. The new Ecclesiastical method allows for a much broader range to involve those who have the care, dedication and skills for leadership.
May I submit my own name? Yes, you are welcome to submit your own name.
What if the person I submit is not able to serve? At this point we are asking for suggestions of individuals whom you believe to have the gifts of discernment and leadership. Individuals identified in this process will have an opportunity to pray and contemplate whether it’s the right time for their service. If a person is unable to serve at this time, they will have been recognized and encouraged to consider a leadership position in the future.
How do I submit my ballot? When is the deadline?
1) A paper ballot can be submitted in worship on Sunday, Oct. 13 and Oct. 20, and on Wednesday, Oct. 16 and Oct. 23. Ballots will be distributed during the services and can be placed in the collection plate.
2) You may also return a paper ballot by mail (postmarked by Fri., Oct. 25), or drop off at the church during office hours (8:30 a.m.–3:30 p.m. Tues., Wed & Fri.) no later than 3:30 p.m. Fri., Oct. 25.
3) You may submit an online ballot at www.ststephenlutheran.org/2025ballot by Fri., Oct. 25.
What happens after names are submitted? Individuals whom the ballot identifies as potential leaders will receive information and guidance from the Nominating Committee to help them with discernment. They will be asked to take a month to prayerfully consider the opportunity. At the beginning of December, the recommended individuals will be asked to indicate whether they will accept the nomination or withdraw. Regular voting to seat new Council and Committee members will take place at the Congregational Annual Meeting on Jan. 26, 2025.
Council and Committee Descriptions
Congregation Council — Sees that the provisions of the constitution, its bylaws, and the continuing resolutions are carried out; has general oversight of the life and activities of the congregation, and in particular its worship life; and is responsible for the financial and property matters of the congregation.
Audit Committee — Examines receipts, disbursements, and financial records of the general fund, trust fund, and any special funds for the fiscal year, according to generally accepted auditing procedures. (Meets on its own schedule starting in spring for a limited period until audit is complete.)
Nominating Committee — Coordinates nominations of individuals for vacancies on the congregation council and committees, informs candidates of duties, responsibilites, and expectations. (Meets on its own schedule from late August through January.)
Trust Fund Committee — Enhances the work of the church by establishing opportunities separate from general operations by distributing monies for the mission of the Evangelical Lutheran Church of America at home and overseas, for outreach into the community, for capital expenditures, and special program development within the church. (Meets on its own schedule four to six times throughout the year.)