2025 Church Council
Church council meets the 3rd Thursday of every month. Council members welcome your interest and involvement.
Council Members
Nancy Balzer - Secretary
Leann Barrick - President
Randy Blackorbay
Sue Elsass
Dean Jahns
Larry Knoell
Dave Loos
Betty Masterman
Larry Parson - Vice President
Chris Statz
Rick Strub - Treasurer
Allison Tieman
Synod Assembly - Adult
Mary Ellen Chinander
Dean Jahns
Council Meeting Summary
January 15, 2026
The Family of God Lutheran Church Council met on January 15, 2026, with President Leann Barrick calling the meeting to order at 7:09 p.m. Devotions were led by Leann. Most council members (10 of 12) and both pastors were present. The agenda and December meeting minutes were approved without issue.
New business focused on preparations for the upcoming Annual Meeting. An update on Facility updates will be given including information about the outdoor cross revamp & dedication. Council discussed procedures for the upcoming RIC vote, including proxy voting via live Zoom only and ensuring open discussion time.
In old business, the council reviewed and approved a balanced 2026 budget of $400,000. The spending projections and the pledge projections are very similar to last year. Banking options are being reviewed, rental income negotiations are underway, and cash flow impacts from HVAC repairs were discussed. We ended the year with healthy cash reserves due to memorial funds from funerals this past year.
Staff reports covered worship attendance, programming updates, youth and education activities, and upcoming events including Lent planning and community gatherings.
Committee liaisons shared updates, highlighting successful social ministry efforts such as the Mitten Tree and CEAP Emergency Drive, worship and music developments, hospitality planning, and outreach growth. The meeting adjourned at 9:26 p.m.