June 15, 2025

Dear Members and Friends of All Saints Lutheran Church-

Over the past several months Matt Reece, Wanda Barber and Julie Schoville have been participating in the Synod Authorized Ministry program, also known as SAM. This is a continuing education and leadership development opportunity through the Southeastern Iowa Synod, and we are grateful to share that we have completed the fall and spring sessions.

With Bishop Amy Current’s recent authorization and the church council’s approval, Matt, Wanda, and Julie will begin serving All Saints Lutheran Church as Synod Authorized Ministers within our congregation.

At the same time, we want to share that Pastor Pokora’s last Sunday will be July 13, 2025. We are thankful for his faithful leadership over the years and the ways he has helped guide this congregation in faith. Please join the church council in expressing appreciation for his ministry at All Saints Lutheran Church and praying for him as he begins a new chapter.

The church council knows there will be many questions about the SAM program. Enclosed with this letter is the FAQ’s from the SEIA Synod. The council will be sharing information with you, the congregation, about the program and the roles of Matt, Wanda, and Julie in the near future.

As we move forward, we ask for your prayers, your openness, and your support. 

We move forward with faith knowing God continues to walk with us every step of the way. 

Sincerely, 
Julie Schoville, Council President
All Saints Lutheran Church Council
Kirk Johnson, Vice-President
James Low, Financial Officer
Marilyn Oliver, Proclamation Ministry Team Lead
Wanda Barber, Worship Ministry Team Lead
Anne Holtan, Service Ministry Team Lead