A Letter from the Council
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
Congratulations!
Congratulations to Steve and Terese TouVelle on the birth of their granddaughter, Elsie Violet, on June 11th.
Southeastern Iowa Synod
… The Synod publishes a weekly newsletter. If you are interested in looking at what is happening in the ELCA and more specifically with our local synod, you may take a look by clicking on the link provided below or typing the information into your preferred web browser.
https://mailchi.mp/seiasynod/southeastern-iowa-synod-enews-10334004?e=bf1d166102
… Take a Look at the Refreshed Visual Identity for the Southeastern Iowa Synod!
We’re excited to share a fresh new look for the Southeastern Iowa Synod!
A visual identity serves as a powerful tool to communicate who you are and what you stand for, conveying your mission, values, and the essence of your community. For the Southeastern Iowa Synod, how we digitally represent ourselves and the Church tells a story about who we are as children of God, forgiven and loved, and how we share the Good News of Jesus as the body of Christ in the world.
The updated visual identity reflects who the synod is as a diverse, Christ-centered community committed to sharing the Good News. With input from voices across the synod and guidance from design experts, this new identity honors our mission, values, and the vibrant people who make up our congregations and communities. Take a look and see how we’re visually telling the story of God’s love in Southeastern Iowa.
From the Director of Music Ministries
Do you play an instrument or sing? Would you like to help lead all or part of worship on Sunday mornings? If so, please contact Matt, the Director of Music Ministries.
Booklets Available
There are various booklets and devotional booklets available in the gathering space for you to take home with you. Our hope is that they help draw you closer to God by assisting with Bible study, prayer, and devotions.
From the Director of Communications (Church Office)
Item Found
If you or someone you know is missing a clip-on earring, please contact the church office to claim.