Boards
Board of Christian Outreach, Assimilation, and Social Ministry — Chuck Squires, Chair
The objective of the Board is to bring the Gospel to the un-churched and equip our members to both deepen their faith and to share it with others. It is based in our statement of purpose, which is to reach out and help our community grow in Christ and encourage each other to use our gifts to glorify God.
The following are a number of projects and initiatives currently being pursued by the Board:
- Offer outreach and personal witnessing training for members. We are currently providing a Bible study utilizing the book, DVD and study guide titled “Across the Room”, written by well known church leader Bill Hybels.
- We strongly support the Amnion “Life is Beautiful” walk.
- Work with VEAP (Volunteers Enlisted to Assist People) to provide ongoing food shelf donations and schools supplies for needy families in the southern suburbs.
- Assist members in identifying their spiritual gifts
- Launched a regular men’s organization (“Guy Time”) which meets on the first Monday of each month.
- Provide greeters, welcome center staff, and visitor follow up.
- Continue to identify personal needs through an active tele-ministry program.
- Providing volunteers to local events such as “National Night Out”
If you have interest in becoming involved in any of Holy Emmanuel’s ongoing community outreach programs, please contact Chuck Squires at squire008@msn.com or call (952) 944-6187.
Board of Christian Education — Dan Marko, Chair
The board of Christian Education is in charge of advancing the cause and awareness if Christian Education within the congregation in all of its teaching capacities and organizations. Objectives of the board are carried out through the Board and also by specific individuals who are extremely gifted in this area, and are willing to use these gifts to educate others in scripture.
Along with Pastor Seidenberg, the board establishes objectives, approves classes and curriculum for our confirmed members, and administers them to the congregation.
Our objectives are to:
- Foster spiritual growth in the lives of our members.
- Provide for the growth of the staff through conferences, conventions, and continuing education.
- With the aid of Pastor Seidenburg, provide for the training of adult teachers and leaders as needs arise.
If you are interested in volunteering your time and talent, or would like to attend one of the class offers at Holy Emmanuel, please contact our main office at (952) 888-2345 to speak with our staff.
Board of Early Childhood Education and Open Arms Early Childhood Christian Center — Michelle Melde and Lauren Bannitt, Co-chairs
Open Arms Early Childhood Christian Center is a non-profit, Christian early childhood ministry offered by Holy Emmanuel Lutheran Church. Open Arms offers age-appropriate childcare for infants through pre-kindergarten. The center also offers care for school-aged children on both a full and part time basis.
Open Arms is governed by a Board of Directors who are not employees of Open Arms. These Board members are members of Holy Emmanuel. The Chair and Co- Chairs of the Board are elected by the voting members of Holy Emmanuel and serve a two year term. The Early Childhood Open Arms Board assists in the growth and development of the ministry of Open Arms to the surrounding community by providing the highest quality of child care in a loving, nurturing, Christ-centered environment.
There are many events throughout the year which take place jointly with Open Arms and Holy Emmanuel. Theses include:
- Fall Rally Day and Youth Car Wash
- Christmas Program
- Sunday Morning Singing Events with Holy Emmanuel Sunday School and Open Arms Children
- Fall Costume Party
- Family Pizza Night
Board of Church Properties — Ray Dolny, Chair
The Board of Church Properties is the group who keeps the church building in working order all year round. Its five current members are responsible for:
- Inspecting, maintaining, and repair of church property, infrastructure, and grounds
- Contracts and rental agreements
- Lawn care and snow removal
- Overseeing the new Bell Tower Project
- Making sure the church has proper insurance coverage