By Anthony Oliphant
The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod (LCMS) Iowa District West (IDW) met in its 42nd regular convention June 8–10 at Camp Okoboji in Milford, Iowa. The convention theme, “One Generation Commends Your Works to Another,” was based on Psalm 145:4.
Delegates elected, on the first ballot, the Rev. Paul Egger of Galva, Iowa, to his first term as district president. Prior to his election, Egger served at St. John, Galva, Iowa for 24 years. He has also served as IDW first vice-president since 2022.
Outgoing IDW President Rev. Dr. Steven Turner, who served three terms (2015–2025), announced his retirement prior to the convention.
Also elected were:
- Jonathan Riggert, Cherokee, Iowa, as first vice-president after previously serving as second vice-president (2022–2025); and
- Benjamin Dose, Algona, Iowa, as second vice-president.
All elected officers were installed during the convention.
Delegates also adopted resolutions to:
- Promote church worker wellness by encouraging creative supportive environments that foster open dialogue and mutual care among church workers, including resources and training to help manage financial, relational and vocational challenges;
- Support and encourage adoption, noting the historical legacy of Christians in caring for orphans and widows, and resolving to promote awareness of adoption and fostering needs, agencies and opportunities, especially through LCMS Recognized Service Organizations; and
- In celebration of the 1700th anniversary of the Council of Nicaea (A.D. 325), give thanks for the one true faith as confessed in the Nicene Creed.
The Rev. Anthony Oliphant is pastor of Redeemer Lutheran Church, Elmhurst, Ill.
Posted July 1, 2025
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