God’s Grace in the Tarheel State:
The History of WELS’ Work in North Carolina
Introduction
Lutheranism in North Carolina goes back to the early days of our nation (Cf. 8 November 2003 The Dispatch article), but the first Lutheran work supported by our church body goes back only to the turn of the century.
Unique Terms to Remember:
District Missionary
Special Vicar
New Mode Mission Work
Mission Explorer
WEF
Various BHM Designations (Planning Authority, Interest Subsidized, etc.)
Synodical Conference Presence in North Carolina – No Exclusive WELS’ Work
Cf. The Synodical Conference: Ecumenical Endeavor – Great explanation of early work, especially in Greensboro w/ Immanuel Lutheran College and Seminary (c.1898-1961)
Outreach Efforts to the Military, Part I – Luther Voss & the First Efforts in NC
Cf. The Colonial Conference Crier:
March 1969 – The Crier reports Luther Voss’ 900 mi. trips to Ft. Bragg & Camp LeJeune
September 1971 – The Crier reports that Resurrection of Norfolk, VA was sending Paul Ziemer to hold monthly services @ Cherry Point, Camp Lejeune and Fort Bragg.
April 1975 – The Crier reports obituary of Luther Voss
June 1972 – The Crier includes a Paul Ziemer article entitled, “Introducing the WELS in North Carolina”. Ziemer offers a “tour” & “history” of the earliest beginnings of work in North Carolina. There is also a map, where all of North Carolina is assigned to Paul Ziemer
December 1972 – The Crier reports that the state of NC, including military bases and the civilian congregations @ Raleigh & Havelock, was granted manpower to release Paul Ziemer for more extensive work in VA. Pastor Frederick Fallen was called for the position. (He eventually declined it.)
October 1980 – The Crier reports growth in mission work across the board in the congregations, exploratories and military work in NC
April 1981 – The Crier has a lengthy article about the “ministry to the military” in North Carolina
June 1984 – The Crier celebrates more than 15 years of serving the WELS military people
August 1985 – GBHM Report states that there were 5 NC congregations on subsidy (4 NAD/1 SAD)
August 1988 – GBHM Report states that there were 3 NC congregations on subsidy (1 of which was on interest subsidy)
June 1994 – NAD Convention Proceedings – By convention resolution, the NAD NC congregations become part of the Piedmont Circuit (pg. 82)
February 1995 – NAD Directory of Church Services
June 2004 – DP’s Report to the NAD Convention – Note all the NC stuff that happened in past biennium
The Lord Plants a Garden in the Triangle – Gethsemane, Raleigh, NC (1973)
Cf. Michigan District History 1833-2000 – Good overall facts, but watch for typos
Cf. The Second Decade – 1973 through 1983 (pg. 3, 5)
Cf. North Atlantic District History of Congregations (pgs. 36-39)
Cf. 1971-1998 Chronology & Membership Tally Sheet
Cf. 22 November 2004 R. Kaus Survey
Cf. 12 November 2004 J. Guse E-mail – Describes his assistance with the early services leading up to the dedication of the chapel and installation of Schmiege – 1000th congregation of the WELS
Cf. Michigan District Mission Board Collection/The Colonial Conference Crier:
1970 – MI DMB Report states, “Preliminary survey work to be done before next General Board for Home Missions meetings in fall.” The Report notes that Raleigh is a “projected area for future W.E.L.S. Missions”
April 1972 – GBHM Report states that manpower and operating funds were granted to the “North Carolina Field.” The missionary placed there was known as a “District Missionary.”
December 1972 – The Crier reports on the very early work being done in Raleigh.
May 1973 – GBHM Report indicates that the MI District requested “the right…to locate the missionary granted for N. Carolina at Raleigh. Since this would include granting opening of a mission in Raleigh, the DMB was asked to submit this request on an M-2 form.” 8 May 1973 – Mission status granted to Raleigh. The report noted that now there would be a mission in a “new state”. The Crier reports that Paul Schmiege was to be the first resident pastor in Raleigh. He had actually served as a summer vicar in the Colonial Conference once before.
June 1973 – The Gulf-Atlantic Mission District Report indicates that the GAMD proposed to make North Carolina part of the GAMD. At the time, Raleigh was the only WELS congregation in North Carolina. However, only western North Carolina came under the GAMD “jurisdiction.”
July 1973 – GBHM Report indicates that Raleigh had already received a CEF loan allocation for a church site.
Paul Schmiege (1973-1988) (Cf. P. Schmiege Survey)
October 1973 – The Northwestern Lutheran features Gethsemane as the 1000th Congregation of the WELS – Several pictures
November 1973 – GBHM Priority Committee reports that Gethsemane made a land request and received a CEF Land Allocation of $55,000 for land and improvements. They were averaging 35 people per Sunday and had 12 communicants.
January 1974 – The Crier offers a profile on Schmiege and the area/field he’s serving. It also reports that Gethsemane had recently become an organized and incorporated congregation. They had also searched for and found suitable sites for a building with the hopes to finalize their land purchase in the months to follow.
April 1974 – The Crier reports that Gethsemane was involved in the purchase of land. MI DMB Gleanings reports, “Recommended land purchase, pending view of property. 4 families have transferred into mission; that’s always a joy, for it’s like frosting on the cake.”
October 1974 – The Crier reports that Gethsemane had a triangular, 3-acre site in “growing NE Raleigh” with building to begin soon
November 1974 – CEF/Uniloan Report indicates that Raleigh had land, a parsonage, but were still meeting in a rental facility. GBHM Report notes that their building planning request was deferred and that they were averaging 28 for worship
January 1975 – The Crier has a map of Colonial Conference with Schmiege serving 47 souls in Raleigh
April 1975 – The Crier reports that Raleigh was about to begin building plans once the Synod approved their requests for planning funds. On Easter Sunday, they had new attendance highs with guests coming from as far away as Hong Kong and Zaire. GBHM Reports indicate that Raleigh was granted “planning authority”
September 1975 – CDMB recommends parsonage purchase & GBHM grants request
October 1975 – The Crier reports that the building committee had solved the site-development problems and negotiated the purchase of an off-site parsonage
November 1975 – GBHM Reports indicate that Raleigh was granted “building allocation”
January 1976 – The Crier reports Gethsemane has 53 souls and had received approval for its chapel.
October 1976 – The Crier reports Gethsemane broke ground for its new house of worship on 4 July. The 70’ by 40’ brick and frame building was to cost $145,000!
January 1977 – The Crier reports that Gethsemane had 57 souls/34 communicants and was nearing the completion of its building with the dedication soon to follow.
March 1977 – Chapel Dedication Day Bulletin
April 1977 The Crier has a lengthy & detailed report on Dedication Day (20 March 1977) for the new building. President O.J. Naumann preached.
June 1977 – The Northwestern Lutheran features Gethsemane with an article on its dedication
January 1978 – The Crier has a map that shows Raleigh as the only WELS outpost in NC. It also reports that Gethsemane is officially an organized mission (cf. 1/74).
January 1979 – The Crier has a brief update on Gethsemane
January 1980 – The Crier has a brief update on Gethsemane
April 1980 – The Crier reports that Gethsemane was already sending young men and women to study for the ministry (Jennifer Kuehn was a Junior @ MLS studying for the teaching ministry). GBHM Reports indicate they were also requesting a “Special Vicar.” (Request denied)
October 1980 – The Crier reports on Gethsemane’s VBS held in July 1980:
This was their 6th annual VBS, which was themed “My Christian Faith and Life”
Major recruitment effort – 1000 fliers distributed, prospect calls, signs posted, 3 ads placed in Ad-Pak
28 kids from 20 families attended. 15 of those families were non-members
65 people attended the VBS closing service
1980-1981 – Mass Media reports that Raleigh participated in the WELS national Mass Media Ministry
1983-1984 – 9 December 2004 Schmiege E-Mail reports that David Lau was assigned as vicar to Gethsemane (Schmiege was asked if he would accept one. Norm Berg & President Zarling worked together to see that one was assigned to Gethsemane.) – Perhaps this is the “special vicar” that was mentioned in the GBHM reports and possibly a precursor to the “Vicars in Mission Settings”.
June 1986 – NAD Convention Proceedings – DMB Report notes that Gethsemane achieved interest-subsidized status in January with a congregation of 90 communicants and 145 baptized members (pg. 24)
June 1988 – NAD Convention Proceedings – DMB Report notes that Gethsemane is “implementing a strong new research outreach program.” (pg. 37) Evangelism Committee Report notes that Gethsemane hosted an evangelism workshop in 1988 (pg. 54)
January-June 1988 – NAD Convention Proceedings – DMB Report notes that Gethsemane hosted an “Involving Laity in the Work of the Church” workshop led by Mission Counselor John Chworowsky
Scott Mews (1989-1999) (Cf. S. Mews Survey)
June 1989 – Northwestern Lutheran notes that Mews was assigned to Gethsemane. Ordination/Installation of Scott Mews
August 1989 – Colonial Crier – Celebration of Mews’ ordination & installation in 25 June
February 1989 – NAD History: 1983 to 1993 – Parish Services Seminar held at Raleigh
June 1990 – NAD Convention Proceedings – DP’s Report notes that Mews was ordained and installed at Gethsemane in June 1989 by Mark Schoeneck (pg. 17-18) DMB Report notes that Raleigh continues to be “interest subsidized” and has 82 communicants. (pg. 25) Evangelism Report notes that Raleigh hosted another evangelism workshop “Prospect Witness and Nurture”. (pg. 36)
June 1992 – NAD Convention Proceedings – DMB Report lists Raleigh as being still “interest subsidized” (Pg. 18) District Commission on Evangelism reports that Gethsemane once again held an evangelism workshop—this one on “Member Assimilation and Retention” (pg. 55)
June 1994 – NAD Convention Proceedings – Special Ministries Report notes that Raleigh was working with those in its midst who were learning disabled (pg. 61)
July 1995 – Addition Dedication Day Bulletin
June 1996 – NAD Convention Proceedings – DP’s Report notes that Gethsemane’s Fellowship/Education Building was dedicated in July 1995 (pg. 19) Board for Parish Services Report notes that Gethsemane was to hold a “Prepare to Serve” seminar as well as a Christ-Light Seminar in 1997 (pg. 52, 54)
June 1998 – NAD News – Celebration of 25th Anniversary on 17 May w/ Paul Schmiege & Paul Ziemer each preached in the 2 special worship services. NAD Convention Proceedings – DP’s Report notes that Gethsemane celebrated her 25th anniversary (pg. 22) Commission on Evangelism Report notes that Raleigh planned to host a School of Outreach in April/May 1999 (pg. 68) Parish Schools Report notes Gethsemane’s early childhood program – “Type of ministry: 5 year old, full day Early Learning Center/Teacher: Margaret Thomas will be arriving late June or early July from Lincoln, NE/Projected enrollment: up to 58” (pg. 86)
David Schleusener (1999-2003) (Cf. 22 October 2004 D. Schleusener E-Mail)
August 1999 – Bulletin & Call Report indicate Schleusener’s acceptance of his call
November 1999 – Installation of David Schleusener
June 2000 – NAD Convention Proceedings – DP’s Report notes that Gethsemane lost their early learning center director & there were no MLC grads to fill the vacancy (pg. 37). DP’s Report notes that David Schleusener was installed by Michael Geiger in November 1999 (pg. 39) Parish Schools Report notes that Precious Lambs Early Learning Center (for 3-5 year olds) had an enrollment of 28 taught by Debbie Heiderich (pg. 53)
January 2001 – NAD News – Profile on Schleusener
July 2003 – Call Report notes Schleusener’s resignation
Cf. 2 December 2004 G. Enderle E-mail – Thoughts on his service as vacancy pastor from October 2003 to April 2004
Rob Guenther (2004-Present) (Cf. R. Guenther E-Mail)
May 2004 – Guenther assigned to Gethsemane
July 2004 – Ordination/Installation of Rob Guenther. Forward in Christ article on Rob Guenther
The Gospel Dawns Over the Appalachians – Our Savior, Hendersonville, NC (1979)
Cf. Our Savior Evangelical Lutheran Church 1977-1994
Cf. 4 December 2004 S. Stone E-Mail – Came over the Smokies from Knoxville and helped with services during the late 1970s.
Cf. E. & M. Groeschel E-Mail – Recounts the very earliest days of Hendersonville from 9/77 to 7/78
Cf. 12 November 2004 J. Guse E-Mail – Recounts sketchy early-days history of Asheville/Hendersonville/Arden
Cf. J. Tweit Survey – 20 November 2004
Cf. Michigan District Mission Board Collection/The Colonial Conference Crier:
September 1978 – GBHM Minutes indicate that Asheville was granted continued exploratory status.
January 1978 – The Crier reports that 4 families in the Asheville-Hendersonville area requested WELS services in the western part of NC. Newspaper advertising was being done in Asheville and meetings were being held with mission board representatives in the hopes that exploratory services could be started.
April 1978 – GBHM Priority Committee Report notes that Asheville’s request for a resident pastor/manpower was deferred.
October 1978 – The Crier reports that the mission nucleus in Asheville has exploratory status. “The fourth call for a District Missionary (Mission starter), who work would begin at Asheville, has been extended.” District Missionary = A missionary who would be moved from place to place to start missions (Cf. Huffmann NAD History)
January 1979 – The Crier reports that the mission nucleus in Asheville was growing (at the time of writing, they had just gained 2 families). The group had traveled to Greenville, SC for Christmas Eve where 35 were present. Exploratory services were to be increased from 2x to 4x per month as of 1/79 with P. Schmiege & S. Stone conducting services. They planned to request manpower in 2/79.
February 1979 – GBHM Minutes & Priority Committee Report indicate that Asheville was granted manpower.
April 1979 – GBHM Minutes again indicate that Asheville was granted continued exploratory status. The Crier reports that the GBHM approved the request for manpower for the Hendersonville-Asheville area in 2/79. The mission nucleus was located on a plateau between the Great Smoky & Blue Ridge Mountains. A call was extended to Pastor Harvey Witte on 26 March 1979. (He eventually declined it.)
Jon Guenther (1979-1981) (Cf. J. Guenther Survey)
October 1979 – The Crier reports that Guenther was installed as missionary for the exploratory field in the Asheville-Hendersonville area of western NC on 1 July 1979. It also offers a brief profile on him.
January 1980 – The Crier offers an update on the “New Mission” in Hendersonville
February 1980 – GBHM Reports indicate that Hendersonville’s request for mission status was deferred “in light of limited financial resources and priority consideration of all requests submitted.”
April 1980 – The Crier reports that Hendersonville used local funding to purchase a 20-yr. old building. At the time they had a nucleus of 19 and an average attendance of 23. They were also awaiting mission status. A slightly longer article is in the issue. GBHM Reports indicate that Hendersonville requested continued exploratory status at this time.
October 1980 – The Crier reports that a TCW group of Lutheran Collegians came out to help.
1980-1981 – Mass Media reports that Hendersonville participated in the WELS national Mass Media Ministry
January 1981 – The Crier reports that Hendersonville was considering forming a dual parish with the mission in Greenville, SC, since Guenther had left.
February 1981 – Mass Media reports that Hendersonville was granted funding for making use of the Mass Media Ministry
Robert Rhyne (1981-1986) (Cf. Rhyne Survey w/ pics of early newsletter)
Late 1981 – GBHM Report states that Hendersonville was considered a “New Mission” for fiscal year 1981-1982
June 1982 – SAD Convention Proceedings – DP’s Report notes Rhyne’s ordination & installation on 12 July 1981 (pg. 21) DP’s Report also notes that Our Savior was received into WELS membership at the 1981 Convention (pg. 22) DMB Report notes that Our Savior was organized during the last biennium, dedicated its chapel in 1981 & that it’s chapel was purchased with local funds (pg. 23-24) Statistical Report notes that Hendersonville had 21 souls & 14 communicants (pg. 26)
April 1984 – GBHM Report states that Hendersonville’s requests for mission status and manpower were deferred again.
Harold Schwertfeger (1986-1988) (Cf. November 2000 Forward in Christ Obituary)
June 1986 – SAD Convention Proceedings – DP’s Report notes Schwertfeger installed on 12 January 1986 (pg. 27)
Frederic Kosanke (1989-1998) (Cf. Kosanke File sent 16 October 2004 w/ pics, letters, etc.)
Preaching Station: Landrum, NC
June 1990 – SAD Convention Proceedings – DP’s Report notes Kosanke installed 8 January 1989 (pg. 9) It also notes that Schwertfeger transferred out on 11 October 1988 (pg. 10)
March 1995 – Bulletin history of Our Savior up to 1980 & notes that they’ll be celebrating their 15th anniversary soon. Another bulletin comes from the 15th Anniversary
June 1998 – SAD Convention Proceedings – DMB Report notes that Asheville is an area where the SADMB is considering tostart a new mission (pg. 40)
1999-2000 – SAD History has an entry on Our Savior. According to the history, it seems that the future was uncertain for Our Savior.
John Qualmann (2000-2001) (Cf. J. Qualmann Survey)
June 2000 – SAD Convention Proceedings – DP’s Report notes Qualmann transferred to the SAD on 17 April 2000 (pg. 4) DMB Report notes Hendersonville back on operating subsidy and seeking relocation (pg. 18)
June 2002 – SAD Convention Proceedings – DP’s Report notes Qualmann installed on 2 July 2000 (pg. 5). It also reports that Qualmann was appointed to the District Commission on Worship during the biennium (pg. 7)
A New Opportunity Arises in the Mountains – Living Savior, Arden/Asheville, NC (2001)
John Qualmann (2001-Present) (Cf. J. Qualmann Survey)
Cf. Living Savior Evangelical Lutheran Church History
April 2000 – Call Report notes that Qualmann accepted a call to the Asheville NC Exploratory
2004-2005 – Ben Tomczyk – Cf. B. Tomczyk Survey
Cf. Digital Pictures on file
God’s Grace at the Gateway to the New South – Grace, Matthews/Charlotte, NC (1981)
Cf. North Atlantic District History of Congregations (Pg. 65-67)
Cf. 6 October 2004 T. Fellers E-Mail – History of Grace from Mid-1970s to 2002
Cf. 12 November 2004 J. Guse E-Mail – Recounts conducting first services in Charlotte
Cf. Michigan District Mission Board Collection/The Colonial Conference Crier:
1970 – According to the 1970 GBHM 6-Year Plan, there was a plan/proposal to start and fund a Charlotte mission by 1973. MI DMB report indicates that Charlotte is a “projected area for future W.E.L.S. missions”
October 1974 – The Crier reports that Charlotte planned to make a request for exploratory status
November 1974 – GBHM Minutes noted that Charlotte was denied exploratory status or it was deferred.
December 1974 – GBHM Executive Committee Minutes indicate that Charlotte’s request for exploratory status were deferred again due to the GBHM’s actions 11/74.
January 1975 – The Crier has a map of Colonial Conference with Schmiege serving a preaching station in Charlotte. At the time he served 4 families with bi-weekly services.
April 1975 – The Crier reports that Charlotte (the 50th largest city in the US in 1975 & the Gateway to the New South) requested exploratory status from the GBHM. GBHM Reports indicate that Charlotte was granted exploratory status.
October 1975 – The Crier reports that exploratory services began on the last Sunday of 7/75
November 1975 – GBHM Reports indicate that Charlotte was granted continued exploratory status
1975 – According to the 1975 GBHM 6-Year Plan, there was a plan/proposal again to start and fund a Charlotte mission, this time by 1976.
January 1976 – The Crier has a map that again reports that mission work was continuing in Charlotte and that it was the Colonial Conference’s southernmost exploratory field.
May 1976 – GBHM Minutes indicate that Charlotte was granted continued exploratory status.
January 1978 – The Crier has a map that no longer has Charlotte on it.
Jon Guenther (1979-1991) (Cf. J. Guenther Survey)
June 1979 – Northwestern Lutheran notes that Guenther was assigned to “New Mission, Asheville, NC”
September 1980 – Mass Media reports that Charlotte was making use of the Mass Media Ministry
October 1980 – The Crier reports that Charlotte would once again request exploratory status in November 1980.
2 November 1980 – Living Savior History notes that Charlotte’s first public service (which was in a YMCA) was held this day. Guenther had been serving there since October.
1980-1981 – Mass Media reports that Charlotte participated in the WELS national Mass Media Ministry
1981 – GBHM Report states that Charlotte was granted manpower for 1981-1982
April 1981 – The Crier reports that Charlotte was granted permission to call a full-time pastor & Jon Guenther accepted the call
May 1981 – GBHM Report states that Charlotte was granted continued exploratory status.
1981 – Mass Media Report notes that Charlotte requested $2500 in Mass Media Subsidy for 1981-1982.
September 1981 – GBHM Report states that Charlotte was once again granted continued exploratory status. Her attendance was about 16-20 on average with 6 families committed.
October 1981 – The Crier reports that Charlotte is seeking continued exploratory status and has a brief article about the “New Mission” there
January 1982 – GBHM Report states that a 12-Student UW-Oshkosh TCW team helped out at Charlotte
February 1982 – Charlotte granted mission status
April 1982 – GBHM Communications Committee Report recommended that their request for a Mass Media grant be deferred “pending documentation by the congregation and study by the MM staff”
April 1984 – GBHM Minutes report Charlotte granted a CEF loan for land. They had land search authority and were using a rental facility at the time.
June 1984 – NAD Convention Proceedings – DMB Report notes that Grace was granted chapel planning authority for a WEF. It also notes that Northeast Charlotte was a possible new field for starting a new mission. (pg. 6-7)
June 1986 – NAD Convention Proceedings – DP’s Report & DMB Report notes that Grace in Matthews/Charlotte, NC dedicated their WEF unit in May 1986. They were planning outreach training and activities at the time. NE Charlotte under consideration by NADMB again as a possible new mission field (pg. 20, 24-25)
June 1988 – NAD Convention Proceedings – DMB Report notes that Grace is a “mission congregation with its own worship/education/fellowship facility in a growing area of southeast Charlotte (&) numbers 56 communicants.” (pg. 34) It also notes NE Charlotte as a potential new mission field under consideration by the NADMB (pg. 40) Evangelism Committee Report notes that Grace hosted an evangelism workshop in 1988 and also received some evangelism consulting. (pg. 54-55)
June 1990 – NAD Convention Proceedings – DP’s Report notes that Jon Guenther celebrated his 10th year in the ministry (pg. 19) DMB Report notes that Grace, with its 63 communicants, “purchased an off-site parsonage near the church property. [The DMB] was pleased to see the large numbers of first time visitors to this congregation.” (pg. 24) The Evangelism Report notes that Grace hosted an evangelism workshop “Prospect Witness and Nurture”. (pg. 36)
Mark Gartner (1991-1998) (Cf. M. Gartner Survey)
June 1991 – Northwestern Lutheran notes that Gartner was assigned to Grace
June 1992 – NAD Convention Proceedings – DP’s Report notes that Gartner was ordained and installed in August 1991 by Roy Brassow (pg. 12) It also reports that Grace celebrated its 10th Anniversary (pg. 14) DMB Report lists Grace as an “Operating Subsidized Station” (pg. 18) DMB Report notes that NADMB anticipated a 1994 start for a Gastonia (E. Charlotte) mission and a 1996 start for a NE Charlotte mission as part of Vision 2000. (pg. 21)
June 1996 – NAD Convention Proceedings – DMB Report notes that Charlotte went from operating subsidy to interest-subsidy (pg. 21)
June 1998 – NAD News – Gartner received & accepted a call in April 1998 to serve at St. Luke’s in Watertown, WI. Grace called Tadd Fellers, who accepted the call.
Tadd Fellers (1998-Present)
May 1998 – Call Report notes that Tadd accepted the call to Grace
June 1998 – NAD Convention Proceedings – DMB Report notes that Gartner had recently accepted a call to WI & Tadd Fellers was to be installed 26 July 1998. “Our Charlotte congregation is looking forward to an expansion of their facilities to better serve them into the future.” In 1998, they were on interest-subsidized, had 109 souls and 78 communicants (pg. 47) DMB Report also notes that the only “new start” that was planned from the 1996-1999 period, but was not started was North Charlotte. “Part of the reason for that is the difficulty in providing manpower and administration to already authorized exploratories as well as circumstances which turned our attention to the Winston Salem area instead.” (pg. 51) The NADMB envisioned a new start in North Charlotte in the near future (pg. 52)
June 2000 – NAD Convention Proceedings – DP’s Report notes that Charlotte was in the midst of a building program (pg. 37) DMB Report notes that North Charlotte continues to be an area under consideration to start a new mission (pg. 44)
2002-Present – Cf. 7 December 2004 E-Mail – Lambs of Grace
Cf. 7 December 2004 E-Mail – Present Situation & Future Outlook
Cf. 8 December 2004 T. Wempner E-Mail – Brief comments on Charlotte – Under DMB because they’re still “interest subsidized”
A Faithful Shepherd Gathers the Sheep – Good Shepherd, China Grove/Landis, NC (1983)
Cf. North Atlantic District History of Congregations (pg. 79-80)
Cf. North Atlantic District History: 1983 to 1993 (pg. 6, 15)
Cf. History of Good Shepherd Lutheran Church 1981-2001
Fred Archer (1981-Present) (Cf. 12 October 2004 F. Archer Survey)
1981 – Cf. Newspaper Article – “Independent Church Off to Excellent Start”
February 1983 – GBHM Report indicates that China Grove was granted manpower (They had a pastor already)
September 1983 – China Grove granted mission status
October 1983 – The Crier offers a profile of Fred Archer & reports on the 2nd Anniversary of Good Shepherd
Late 1983 – GBHM Report indicates that China Grove was a new mission & was meeting in a WEF unit of some kind
April 1984 – GBHM Minutes report that China Grove granted a CEF Loan for land and/or buildings. They had a parsonage already and were using a rental facility at the time.
June 1984 – NAD Convention Proceedings – DP’s Report noted that the constitution for Good Shepherd was recommended for acceptance (and was essentially received into membership at the 1983 Synod Convention). (pg. 3) Fred Archer was appointed to the District Commission on Evangelism. (pg. 4) DMB Report notes that China Grove granted mission status in 1983. Chapel funding was approved for Good Shepherd. (pg. 6)
June 1986 – NAD Convention Proceedings – DP’s Report notes that Good Shepherd dedicated their church in April 1985 (pg. 20) DMB Report notes that Good Shepherd confirmed 5 adults in 1985 (pg. 24)
June 1988 – NAD Convention Proceedings – DMB Report notes that Good Shepherd “has its own facility in a small town and numbers 64 communicants.” (pg. 34-35)
June 1990 – NAD Convention Proceedings – DMB Report notes that Archer serves 60 communicants. “Pastor Archer also made periodic trips to Roanoke [,VA] where averages some 16 at services and is willing to help out also at Greensboro should we being exploration there.” (pg. 24)
June 1992 – NAD Convention Proceedings – DMB Report notes Good Shepherd under its list of “Operating Subsidized Stations” (pg. 18)
June 1994 – NAD Convention Proceedings – DP’s Report notes that Archer celebrated his 30th anniversary in the ministry during the past biennium (pg. 19)
June 1996 – NAD Convention Proceedings – DMB Report notes that China Grove went from operating subsidy to interest subsidy through a “shared time” form of ministry (pg. 21)
June 1998 – NAD Convention Proceedings – DMB Report notes “Pastor Fred Archer continues to serve our congregation here and is watching as Charlotte moves north and High Point moves south toward China Grove.” In 1998, Good Shepherd was interest-subsidized, had 43 souls and 38 communicants. (pg. 47)
June 2000 – NAD Convention Proceedings – DP’s Report notes that Fred Archer celebrated his 35th Anniversary in the ministry during the biennium (pg. 40) DMB Report notes that Good Shepherd became self-supporting “through a generous gift which was used to pay off the church’s debt” (pg. 43).
Outreach Efforts to the Military, Part II – Beautiful Savior, Fayetteville, NC (1984)
Cf. North Atlantic District History of Congregations (pg. 88-90)
October 1980 – The Crier reports that Fayetteville intended to request exploratory status in April 1981.
Cf. North Atlantic District History: 1983 to 1993 (pg. 4, 15)
Paul Schmiege (1977-1985) (Cf. P. Schmiege Survey)
April 1984 – GBHM Report indicates that Fayetteville’s request for manpower was denied.
June 1984 – NAD Convention Proceedings – DMB Report notes that Fayetteville was a possible new field for starting a new mission (pg. 7)
Mark Schoeneck (1985-1994) (Cf. 8 November 2004 M. Schoeneck Survey)
June 1985 – Northwestern Lutheran notes Schoeneck assigned to Fayetteville Exploratory. NAD Convention Proceedings – DP’s Report notes that Schoeneck was ordained & installed as an exploratory pastor in Fayetteville by Paul Schmiege (pg. 18-19)
Winter 1985 – The Crier includes a profile of Schoeneck & a brief article about exploratory work in Fayetteville
June 1986 – NAD Convention Proceedings – DMB Report describes Schoeneck’s New Mode exploratory work (pg. 21)
September 1986 – GBHM Report states that Fayetteville was granted continued exploratory status.
Winter 1987 – The Crier reports on Beautiful Savior’s first public worship service
June 1988 – NAD Convention Proceedings – DP’s Report notes that Beautiful Savior was received into membership at the 1987 Synod Convention (p. 28). DMB Report notes that Beautiful Savior achieved mission status in 1987. „The congregation’s membership is drawn both from Fayetteville and Jacksonville (2 hours away). Pastor Mark Schoeneck serves this wide-spread congregation by providing a regular mission ministry in Fayetteville and also conducting services 2-3 times per month in Jacksonville and providing pastoral leadership for the lay-led services and Christian education program conducted twice per month. If one voter’s meeting is held in church in Fayetteville after church, then the next meeting will be held in Jacksonville (where the president of the congregation lives). The congregation hopes to close on a church site soon.” (pg. 35) By resolution, the Convention also acknowledged the reception into membership in the NAD of Beautiful Savior. (pg. 98-99)
January 1989 – GBHM Report states that Fayetteville was seeking planning authority for its WEF and that Fayetteville was granted planning authority
April 1989 – The Crier – How are things at NC’s newest mission?
June 1990 – NAD Convention Proceedings – DMB Report notes that Beautiful Savior has 62 communicants, who “are awaiting approval of their final drawings so they can go out for bid on their chapel project. A parsonage will also be constructed on the site at the same time. Pastor Schoeneck continues to serve not only Fayetteville but also Camp LeJeune.” (pg. 24)
August 1991 – CEF Ad – Brief synopsis on Fayetteville as “Another Mission Accomplished” – Had just completed a WEF unit
Cf. 15 November 2004 E. Junker Survey
June 1992 – NAD Convention Proceedings – DMB Report lists Beautiful Savior in its list of “Operating Subsidized Stations” (pg. 18)
David Pries (1994-1998) (Cf. D. Pries Survey)
June 1994 – NAD Convention Proceedings – DP’s Report notes that Pries was applying for membership in the WELS/NAD at the 1994 Convention (pg. 18)
July 1994 – Northwestern Lutheran notes that David Pries was assigned to Fayetteville
June 1996 – NAD Convention Proceedings – DP’s Report notes that Pries was ordained and installed in July 1994 by Donald Stuppy (pg. 17)
June 1998 – NAD Convention Proceedings – DP’s Report notes that Beautiful Savior had celebrated its 10th Anniversary during the past biennium (pg. 22) DMB Report notes “The Lord has been blessing them with sizeable adult instruction classes and subsequent numerical growth.” In 1998, Beautiful Savior was interest-subsidized, had 129 souls and 75 communicants. (pg. 47)
David Schmidt (1999-Present) (Cf. 16 November 2004 D. Schmidt Survey)
September 1999 – Call Report indicates that David Schmidt accepted a call to Beautiful Savior
June 2000 – NAD Convention Proceedings – Cf. Schmidt paper (pgs. 28-35). DP’s Report notes that Schmidt was installed by Donald Stuppy in May 1999 (pg. 39) DP’s Report also notes that Schmidt was received into synodical membership at the 1999 Synod Convention by colloquy from CLC (pg. 40) DMB Report also notes Schmidt’s beginning of service (pg. 43)
Cf. 8 December 2004 T. Wempner E-Mail – Fayetteville’s heavy dependence on the military has become a problem for them at this time, because a large number of members have been transferred out. Recently attended a Military Contact Pastor Conference and will be trying to make inroads into the bases for outreach.
Christ Comes to the Triad – Christ the Redeemer, High Point/Greensboro, NC (1992)
Cf. North Atlantic District History of Congregations (pg. 103-104)
Cf. North Atlantic District History: 1983 to 1993 (pg. 15)
Cf. Decade of Growth and Change: 1993-2004 (pg. 2-3)
Mark Rosenberg (1992-1995) (Cf. M. Rosenberg survey)
May 1992 – Northwestern Lutheran indicates that Rosenberg assigned to Greensboro exploratory
June 1992 – NAD Convention Proceedings – DP’s Report notes that Rosenberg was applying for membership in the WELS/NAD during the 1992 Convention (pg. 13). DMB Report notes that Greensboro was an exploratory field at this time under the care of Rosenberg (pg. 18). DMB Report rejoices in starting exploratory in Greensboro (pg. 23).
June 1994 – NAD Convention Proceedings – DP’s Report notes that Rosenberg was ordained and installed as mission developer in Greensboro in July 1992 by Richard Schleicher (pg. 17)
Paul Ziemer (1996-2002) (Cf. P. Ziemer survey)
March 1996 – Call Report notes that Ziemer took the call to Greensboro.
June 1996 – NAD Convention Proceedings – DP’s Report notes that Ziemer was installed in Greensboro by Donald Stuppy in April 1996 (pg. 18) DMB Report notes that subsidy was withdrawn from Greensboro, but the work was re-started in High Point by Paul Ziemer. Of all the exploratories in the NAD, Greensboro wasn’t going to be up for review at the Fall BHM meeting (pg. 21-22)
June 1998 – NAD Convention Proceedings – DMB Report notes that, „Pastor Paul Ziemer, on his third tour of duty in the North Atlantic mission corps, shepherds this flock. They recently achieved Mission status and are now also looking at another potential field in Winston Salem (More on that later)“ In 1998, they had operating subsidy, 73 souls and 49 communicants (pg. 47).
A Star Rises Over the Triad – Star of Bethlehem, Winston-Salem, NC (1998)
Cf. North Atlantic District History of Congregations (pg. 105-107)
Cf. Decade of Growth and Change: 1993-2004 (pg. 2-3)
Cf. D. Schulz Survey
April 1982 – GBHM Report states that Winston-Salem was listed with other potential cities for new mission/exploratory openings proposed for 4/82-3/83
June 1986 – NAD Convention Proceedings – DMB Report notes that Winston-Salem was a potential mission field under consideration by the NADMB (pg. 25)
Paul Ziemer (1998-2002) (Cf. P. Ziemer survey)
June 1998 – NAD Convention Proceedings – DMB Report notes that, „Right now our plans for 1998-99 call for requesting a new exploratory with manpower at Winston Salem, NC this fall. (A group from the LCMS has been in discussions with the District Praesidium and Pastor Paul Ziemer for serveral months now.)“ (pg. 51)
June 2000 – NAD Convention Proceedings – DP’s Report notes that Winston-Salem was recently able to dedicate its worship facility (pg. 37) DP’s Report notes that Paul Ziemer celebrated his 30th year in the ministry during the biennium (pg. 40) DMB Report notes that Winston-Salem was able to purchase worship facilities with CEF assistance. (pg. 43) DMB Report also notes that Greensboro/Guilford County was still under consideration for a new mission field (pg. 44)
Fred Guldberg (2002-Present) (Cf. F. Guldberg survey)
Cf. 8 December 2004 T. Wempner E-Mail – They’re doing well and doing great outreach. Their outlook continues to be very good as their shepherd continues to lead them.
May 2002 – Guldberg assigned to Star of Bethlehem
Outreach Efforts to the Military, Part III – Ascension, Jacksonville, NC (1993)
Cherry Point/Havelock
Cf. Michigan District Mission Board Collection/The Colonial Conference Crier:
1971 – Exploratory work began at Cherry Point, a town of 20,000 people on NC’s East Coast
December 1972 – The Colonial Conference Crier – Mission nucleus there
July 1973 – According to GBHM Report, this field is listed under “Exploratory Fields Served or Approved.” However, this same report notes that service there was discontinued as an exploratory field.
November 1973 – GBHM Priority Committee reports that continued exploratory status was granted to Cherry Point, but their requests for mission & manpower status were deferred. At the time of this report there were 7 families with 18 communicants with 2 prospect families.
October 1974 – The Crier reports the story of Sgt. Paul DeMercy driving 120 mi. roundtrip for BIC
Cf. 19 November 2004 P. Schmiege E-Mail – Recounting of work at Cherry Point
Cf. 18 November 2004 S. Mews E-Mail – Recounts how it went from Schmiege to Schoeneck to Fellers
Cf. MI DMB Collection:
November 1973 – GBHM Priority Committee reports that there are 17 communicants at Camp Lejeune
Cf. North Atlantic District History of Congregations (pg. 111)
June 1992 – NAD Convention Proceedings – DMB Report notes that NADMB anticipated a 1992 start for the Jacksonville/Wilmington, NC to establish a “field of churches” as part of Vision 2000. (pg. 21)
Cf. North Atlantic District History: 1983 to 1993 (pg. 4)
Cf. Decade of Growth and Change: 1993 to 2004 (pg. 4)
Tadd Fellers (1993-1998)
July 1993 – Northwestern Lutheran notes that Tadd was assigned to “Exploratory Field of Churches, Eastern North Carolina”
Cf. Telephone Interview – 29 November 2004
1993 – Tadd called to “East Coast Field of Churches” based in Jacksonville. This “Field of Churches” concept was based on a circuit rider type of idea that the Baptists had made use of in the South. He was to go around and visit each town where WELS people were located perhaps once a month with his base in Jacksonville. The towns he was to visit were scattered all over eastern North Carolina (i.e. New Bern, Greenville, Wilmington, etc.). During the time when he was gone, strong lay leaders were to conduct services. What ended up happening is that he visited these people in these different areas, but they didn’t really want to do things on their own and get churches started. This led to the change of focus from NC’s eastern coast to mainly the Jacksonville area.
June 1994 – NAD Convention Proceedings – DP’s Report notes that Tadd was ordained and installed as mission explorer to field of churches in Eastern North Carolina in July 1993 by Mark Schoeneck (pg. 18) DMB Report rejoices in starting the exploratory in Jacksonville (pg. 23) Special Ministries Report notes that Jacksonville is among the congregations that offer materials for the learning disabled. (pg. 61)
June 1996 – NAD Convention Proceedings – DP’s Report notes that Tadd was appointed to the Special Ministries Committee (pg. 19) DMB Report notes that they anticipated a request for mission status from the Jacksonville/Havelock group. (pg. 22)
1993-1998 – The group in Jacksonville met for the first time at the Marine Base Chapel at Camp LeJeune. They wanted to have their own identity in the community. They wanted their own place and not just serving military, but community. A problem with their situation was that they met on base on Sunday afternoons. So they looked around and rented a small auditorium at the Coastal Kiddie College. It was ½ the size of their current facility. CKC welcomed them in and let them leave the auditorium set up for them with chairs and lectern. CKC even let them put a permanent sign out. During this time, Tadd also experimented with the use of MIDI in worship. However, CKC was bought out by another company, which asked them to move on to another place. So they moved to the Comfort Inn & Suites Conference Room. The room used to be the bar, which was still there. So the congregation converted the bar into an altar. Even had a curtain covering where the glasses hung. They continued to use the room for storage.
During Tadd’s time, there was lots of transition among the military, much like now. The congregation was made mostly of younger folks. One example – The first ladies’ group meeting consisted mostly of women in their 20s, but there were a couple older, middle-aged women who really fit in with the group and served as mentors. It was a struggle for Tadd, since he was a lone, unmarried pastor in a big area. This allowed him to immerse himself in the work, but he recommended that if they did that again, they’d send guys out in pairs.
Cf. 6 October 2004 T. Fellers E-Mail – History of Jacksonville from 1993 to 1996
Stephen Schmidt (1998-Present) (Cf. S. Schmidt Survey)
May 1998 – Schmidt assigned to Ascension after 2 yrs. at MLC
June 1998 – NAD News – Ascension planned to call a graduate from WLS on 17 May. NAD Convention Proceedings – DP’s Report notes that Ascension was welcomed into WELS membership at the 1997 Synod Convention (pg. 23) DMB Report notes that, “Pastor Tadd Fellers has been serving our mission here but will move westward in early July. Pastor Stephen Schmidt has been assigned to serve this mission and anticipates a July 12th installation. He will also be serving a small group at the preaching station at Havelock.” In 1998, they were receiving operating subsidy, had 85 souls and 58 communicants. (pg. 47)
1998-Present – When management changed at the Comfort Inn, oddly enough, Steve had the only key and had to explain to the management a few things about the hotel.
June 2000 – NAD Convention Proceedings – DP’s Report notes that Schmidt was installed by Donald Stuppy on July 1998 (pg. 39) DMB Report also notes the beginning of Schmidt’s service (pg. 43) DMB Report notes that the Outer Banks of NC was under consideration as an area to start a new mission field (pg. 44)
June 2004 – DMB Report to the District Convention
Cf. 8 December 2004 T. Wempner E-Mail – Ascension is heavily dependant on the military, but they recently attended a Military Contact Pastor Conference and will be trying to make further inroads into the bases for outreach.
A New Tree Grows in the Triangle – Tree of Life, Cary, NC (1997)
June 1986 – NAD Convention Proceedings – DMB Report notes that the Morrisville/Cary area was under consideration as a potential new mission field by the NADMB (pg. 25)
June 1988 – NAD Convention Proceedings – DMB Report notes that Cary was again under consideration as a potential new mission field by the NADMB (pg. 40)
June 1992 – NAD Convention Proceedings – DMB Report notes that NADMB anticipated a 1997 start for a 2nd Raleigh/Durham mission as part of Vision 2000. (pg. 21)
June 1996 – NAD Convention Proceedings – DMB Report note that, “Our North Atlantic expansion plans have led us to target some specific areas for possible future expansion.” Among those listed is “Raleigh, NC#2” – This would eventually become the Cary mission
Cf. North Atlantic District History of Congregations (pg. 110)
Cf. Decade of Growth and Change: 1993 to 2004 (pg. 5-6)
Cf. Tree of Life Lutheran Church 1998-2003
Cf. R. Larsen & P. Johnson Surveys
Michael Geiger (1997-Present) (Cf. M. Geiger Survey)
June 1998 – NAD News – Sunrise Easter Service with 41 in attendance. Plans to start regular Sunday services in fall/winter. NAD Convention Proceedings – At the time of the convention, Cary was the last mission to open in the NAD & that was in 1997 (pg. 17). DP’s Report notes that Geiger was ordained and installed to serve Southeastern Raleigh in August 1997 by Gerald Geiger (pg. 21) DMB Report notes that, “One of our newest mission ventures is at Cary, just southwest of Raleigh. Pastor Michael Geiger was ordained and installed here last summer and is gathering a nucleus of believers at Tree of Life.” In 1998, Cary had exploratory status and no official members yet. (pg. 51) The NADMB also envisioned for a 3rd man in the Raleigh area as of 1999-2000. (pg. 52)
June 2000 – NAD Convention Proceedings – DMB Report notes that Tree of Life was granted mission status and land search authority (pg. 43) DMB Report also notes that SW Cary was under consideration for the start of a new mission field (pg. 44)
2001-2002 – Jay Bickelhaupt – Cf. 10 November 2004 J. Bickelhaupt E-Mail
2002-2003 – Scott Wolfram – Cf. 17 November 2004 S. Wolfram E-Mail
2003-2004 – Jeremiah Gumm
December 2003 – 5th Anniversary Bulletin
October 2004 – Forward in Christ – Tree of Life featured in a 2 pg. spread on its mission and ministry
2004-2005 – Ben Zahn – Cf. 30 November 2004 B. Zahn E-mail
Cf. 8 December 2004 T. Wempner E-Mail – At this time, they are stretched financially, but their outlook is still very good.
Conclusion: What’s in Store for the WELS in North Carolina? – Preserve and Proclaim!