The Matter of Selecting Vice Presidents

The election of the Vice-Presidents is a matter great importance to the Synod.  The Vice-Presidents have opportunity to expand the heart and passion of the Synod.  They are the front line expression of the office of the President.  They are much more than “figure-heads.”   They are the “real thing.” 

And if the “real thing” is that the Synod is committed to being Gospel Centered, Mission Driven and Future Orientated, the Vice-Presidents had better be leaders, expanders, and promoters.  If the “critical targets” of the Synod are to “initiate new ministries,” “revitalize ministries” with boundless potential, and affirm “stewardship” with all of its implications – well – the VPs better be the “real thing.”

We believe that these nominees for Vice-President of the Synod are the “real thing.”

FIRST VICE-PRESIDENT BILL DIEKELMAN

Pastor Bill Diekelman has demonstrated his passion for the Gospel while serving as First Vice-President in so many ways.  Many gatherings of Synod and Synod’s congregations have been blessed by his solid Gospel proclamations.  He has a passion for the initiation of new ministries, and has been tireless in affirming the importance of ABLAZE as one way of filling heaven.  He struggles when ministries struggle.  He knows their frustration, and their earnest desire to be faithful.  He is mission driven.  He envisions a church body continuing to stretch, and grow, setting the pace for others in the world Lutheran community.  Bill Diekelman is “the real thing.” 

REVEREND DOCTOR PAUL MAIER

Paul is “the real thing!”  You have read some of his books, you have heard his presentations.  You know he carries the great passion of the Gospel.  You know that he brings a great sense of the Gospel in the history of the world and of the church.  You know he does not want the church “stuck in the past.”  You know he believes that these days call for great faithfulness.  You know that he understands the days before us will call for our very best stewardship of the resources available to us.  You know that he is committed to leaving a legacy that will encourage those who follow us.  Paul Maier is “the real thing!”

REVEREND DOCTOR DEAN NADASDY

Dean is “the real thing.”  He has been involved in the “revitalization” movement for a long time.  He has been part of revitalization of small ministries and of large ministries.  He has been involved in planting ministries, one these days that is powerfully relating to our “post-modern world.”  His gospel-centered sermons and writings serve as resources for many.  His stint as a Seminary Professor helped him appreciate and understand what it takes to minister these days and the days that lie before us.  His appreciation of how we use the resources available to us are legendary.  Dean Nadasdy is “the real thing.” 

REVEREND VICTOR BELTON

Vic is “the real thing.”  His own formation has been shaped through the hard struggles of a parish pastor who proclaimed the Gospel, “no matter what.”  “No matter” if the nation was going through significant changes.  “No matter” that the Christian communities status and stance were changing.  “No matter” that resources became more and more limited.  “No matter what,” he steadfastly and faithfully proclaimed the Gospel, expanded the places where people might hear that Gospel, and looked to the future with confidence and optimism.  Vic Belton is “the real thing.” 

REVEREND LUTHER BRUNETT

Luther Brunette is “the real thing.”  Well rooted in the traditions of the Gospel, motivated by a fierce love for those who know not the Gospel, open to using the resources that God has made available to His church, he looks back so he may look ahead.  Far a head.  He sees ministries that moved by the Spirit “live again!”  He sees places where the Gospel must go.  He encourages, mentors, coaches.  He understand the importance of “being team.”  Luther Brunette is “the real thing.”

REVEREND DOCTOR DAVID BUEGLER

David Buegler is “the real thing.”  While serving in a wide range of ministries with significant leadership responsibilities, his heart remains that of a parish pastor.  With that heart he led as a District President and a large school administrator.  With that heart he participated in the fashioning of the restructuring Blue Ribbon Task Force.  With that heart he continues to inter-face with the broader Lutheran and Christian community.  His counsel is seasoned and measured.  David Buegler is “the real thing.”