By Anthony Oliphant
The Rev. Mark A. Chepulis of Cavalier, N.D., was elected to his first term as president of The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod (LCMS) North Dakota District during the district’s 60th convention, held Jan. 19–22 in Minot.
Chepulis, who previously served as second vice-president of the district, was elected on the fourth ballot.
Also elected were:
- Rev. Paul O.S. Preus of Ellendale, N.D., first vice-president (Eastern Region); and
- Rev. Kirk L. Peters of Hazen, N.D., second vice-president (Western Region).
The president and vice-presidents were installed during the convention.
Under the theme “Clothed in Christ’s Righteousness,” delegates adopted resolutions to:
- Continue support for global and local missions, including LCMS South American missions in Santiago, Chile, at $25,000/year; Christ’s Care for Children: Kenya at $25,000/year; and local Recognized Service Organization Shepherd’s Hill at the Crossroads camp and retreat center at $10,000/year.
- Address concerns of rural ministry and struggling congregations, encouraging secular vocational training for current and potential ordained and commissioned workers to develop vocational gifts to supplement income, and encouraging congregations to show understanding to workers who need to supplement income.
- Develop a fund through the district board of directors to assist congregations facing sudden major hardships, such as urgent necessary building repairs.
The Rev. Anthony Oliphant is pastor of Redeemer Lutheran Church, Elmhurst, Ill.
Posted Feb. 21, 2025/Updated Feb. 26, 2025
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