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Call Process

Learn More about our Call Process

The process of calling a pastor is a special time for our church community. We, as members, (1 Peter 2:9) pray and seek God’s guidance to find the right person for the job (Acts 20:28). It’s not just about hiring someone available. Our call committee, who represents us, will suggest someone to the Senior Executive Director of Ministries. Then, together, we’ll pick a pastor who will lead us in fulfilling Christ’s mission for our church (Luke 19:10).

211 Sumner Worship Community Pastor

We are in the process of finding our next 211 Sumner Worship Community Pastor. 

Learn more 

Role of our Congregational Members

Role of our

Congregational Members

- Pray for our Call Recommendation Committee, lay leadership board and staff leaders.

- Provide nominations of candidates to be considered.

- Pray for God to prepare the way and heart of our future pastor and his family.

- Stay informed by reading the eNews for available updates from the Call Recommendation Committee.

Role of our Senior Executive Director of Ministries

Role of our

Senior Executive Director of Ministries

- Pray for God’s guidance and direction.

- Review and update job description if necessary.

- Select members to our Call Recommendation Committee.

- Lead the interview process.

- Recommend a name to the congregation.

211 Sumner Worship Community Pastor Timeline

- June 2026 - Pastor Hutton announces he has accepted a call to Faith Community Lutheran Church in Las Vegas, Nevada.

- August 2026 - Names are received by the congregation, staff, and District for review and consideration.

- August 2026 - The Call Recommendation Committee is formed by Pastor Michael Eckelkamp.

- September 2026 - Names are received and returned to the District for a formal review and request for PIFs and SETs, along with notification of eligibility.

- September 2026 - Call Recommendation Committee is officially formed and holds its first meetings to review expectations of the group. Pastor Michael reviews remaining names after the District review.

More updates to come

View the full estimated timeline 

What We Are Looking For

As we move through our call process, we invite you to view the job description. Names have been submitted by the congregation, staff, and our LCMS District, and have been reviewed by the President of the Nebraska District of the Lutheran Church Missouri Synod and Pastor Michael Eckelkamp. Please keep this process in your prayers.

View the job description 

Call Recommendation Committee

Autumn Crable 

Ryan Dale 

Grace Fahleson 

Tim Geisert 

Josiah Janke 

Kathy L'Heureux 

Tara Paulson 

Ted Retzlaff 

Tracy Thelen 

Questions?

We want to answer any questions that you may have! Send us an email today and a staff member will get back to you as soon as possible.

Email us today