SOS - Southern Ohio Synod Evangelical Lutheran Church in America

As a synod, with local congregational partnership, launch two new congregation starts in the next three years.

Objectives

Sharing the Good News is at the core of what it means to be Christian and Lutheran. New congregational starts are one of the primary ways that people come into a relationship with Jesus and the church. It has been more than five years since the Southern Ohio Synod has launched a new congregation. We know where there are opportunities in our Synod to begin new communities of faith. This is the time for us to fulfill our call and to meet the needs of those who want to be church, those who are seeking, and those who do not know Jesus yet.

1. Up to two larger congregations will be invited to expand their ministries by establishing satellite congregations in targeted areas.

The Thrive campaign will provide each founding congregation up to $100,000 per year for three years, after which the founding congregations will assume full support their satellites.

2. It is hoped that at least one launched satellite ministry will welcome a population not typically found among Lutherans (e.g. Latino, young adults, persons of color).

3. If no congregation willing to start a satellite can be identified, the Bishop WILL take action to start a stand-alone congregation with funding up to $500,000 over a five-year period.

“I am excited to see the synod target areas for new congregations in areas experiencing population growth. Regardless of one’s own personal political preferences, the headline news illustrate that in these increasingly divisive times, our communities, our state, country and world need to experience the hope and love of Christ more than ever before.”

Tom McCarthy – Member, Trinity, Marysville –

Engage all congregations across the Synod to enhance their own worship and music opportunities, and share their resources and knowledge to assist other congregations.

BUDGET

If the challenge gift amount of $2 million is reached, two congregations will be launched.

Pastoral Staff	$80,000 annually
Facility/program	$20,000 annually
Other costs will be absorbed by the new community through their offerings and gifts.

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For more information contact Campaign Manager, Pastor Larry Donner, by completing the form below.