1. Synodical Council Report

2. “In Christ Alone” Long-Range Plan Adopted by 2011 Convention, looking toward 2017 SC oversees areas of ministry and departments as they develop strategies The SC uses the “In Christ Alone” long-range ministry plan as a guide in allocating funds to ministry programs and services 2 |Report of the Synodical Council

3. God’s Work Made Possible by Your Synodical Support Ministerial Education Schools on stable financial footing Adjusting to needs: early childhood, urban education, world seminaries, mission exposure, continuing education World Missions Expansion of the work in Southeast Asia New fields being explored Partnership with sister synods in other countries Continuing growth in our existing fields (Africa, India, Indonesia) Home Missions Six to eight new home missions established Cross-cultural efforts Report of the Synodical Council3

4. God’s Work Made Possible by Your Synodical Support Congregation and Ministry Support Helping congregations become stronger and healthier Hymnal project, award winning outreach video series, marriage enrichment, Interactive Faith online Bible studies, youth rally Support Ongoing support of our churches and schools in the areas of communication, technology, and Christian giving Report of the Synodical Council4

5. Sources of Synod Funding Support forecast 1.Congregation Mission Offerings 2.Other unrestricted sources Revenues 1.Tuition & fees 2.Interest and Investments Special funds 1.Restricted gifts, bequests & grants 2.Endowment distributions Reserves Report of the Synodical Council5

6. 2013-2015 Financial Plan The 2013-2015 Ministry Financial Plan (budget) was adopted by the 2013 convention. “This is what we desire to do, under God and with his blessing.” The Ministry Plan provides for maintenance of and some expansion of mission efforts. The Ministry Financial Plan (budget) was built around a 4% increase in CMO for fiscal years 2014 and 2015. CMO subscriptions actually decreased by one percent in 2014. This five percent funding gap amounted to a difference of approximately $1.2 million. Report of the Synodical Council6

7. 2014 CMO Revisit Effort $485,935 additional 2014 subscriptions $54,814 in additional one-time gifts from congregations $1.2 million shortfall cut nearly in half 1.3% more than 2013 CMO offerings Thank you to all who prayerfully considered this situation Report of the Synodical Council7

8. 2015-2017 Financial Planning 2-3% CMO increase needed to maintain current ministry for 2016 & 2017 Other sources of support flat or declining 1.75% average wage increase 11% annual health care increase 10% annual pension increase Based on Ministry Committee’s proposed plan; SC will adopt 2015-2017 Financial Plan in April 2015 for recommendation to 2015 synod convention in July. Report of the Synodical Council8 |

9. It’s Our Time to Grow Together, motivated by God’s grace, we will be able to: Provide for more Home Mission openings Seize new opportunities in World Mission fields Strengthen the financial situation at our Ministerial Education schools Help congregations become stronger and healthier Encourage called workers to grow in their skills and knowledge Train seminary students for work in mission settings Report of the Synodical Council9

10. Thank you! Your past support for our mission as a synod is an expression of your faith and thankfulness to God. We recognize the challenges you face in your local ministry and join you in prayer for God’s blessings on your efforts. This is one more reminder of the privilege we have to proclaim the gospel more widely. Consider God’s abundant blessings, both spiritual and physical. Report of the Synodical Council10

11. Our Prayer Lord of the Church, we know that all we have and are comes from your gracious hands. As we work together in carrying out the mission you have given to us, help us always to regard that work as a blessing and a privilege. Strengthen us by the power of your Holy Spirit, and remind us that while we may plant and water the seed of the gospel, you alone can and will make that seed grow. Help us to be faithful and wise in the gifts and opportunities you have given us, and continue to encourage us with your unbreakable promises. We pray in the name of our living Savior, Jesus Christ. Amen. Report of the Synodical Council11 |