Report of the Bishop and President of the LCMS Atlantic District to the 62nd Regular Convention of

the Atlantic District of The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod (LCMS) on July 10-11, 2025

Words We Believe, Teach, and Confess

Greeting

The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, the love of God, and the communion of the Holy Spirit be with you all.

The Holy Word of the Lord

There is therefore now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus. For the law of the Spirit of life has set you free in Christ Jesus from the law of sin and death. For God has done what the law, weakened by the flesh, could not do. By sending his own Son in the likeness of sinful flesh and for sin, he condemned sin in the flesh, in order that the righteous requirement of the law might be fulfilled in us, who walk not according to the flesh but according to the Spirit. For those who live according to the flesh set their minds on the things of the flesh, but those who live according to the Spirit set their minds on the things of the Spirit. For to set the mind on the flesh is death, but to set the mind on the Spirit is life and peace. For the mind that is set on the flesh is hostile to God, for it does not submit to God's law; indeed, it cannot. Those who are in the flesh cannot please God.

You, however, are not in the flesh but in the Spirit, if in fact the Spirit of God dwells in you. Anyone who does not have the Spirit of Christ does not belong to him. But if Christ is in you, although the body is dead because of sin, the Spirit is life because of righteousness. If the Spirit of him who raised Jesus from the dead dwells in you, he who raised Christ Jesus from the dead will also give life to your mortal bodies through his Spirit who dwells in you.

So then, brothers, we are debtors, not to the flesh, to live according to the flesh. For if you live according to the flesh you will die, but if by the Spirit you put to death the deeds of the body, you will live. For all who are led by the Spirit of God are sons of God. For you did not receive the spirit of slavery to fall back into fear, but you have received the Spirit of adoption as sons, by whom we cry, “Abba! Father!” The Spirit himself bears witness with our spirit that we are children of God, and if children, then heirs—heirs of God and fellow heirs with Christ, provided we suffer with him in order that we may also be glorified with him.

For I consider that the sufferings of this present time are not worth comparing with the glory that is to be revealed to us. For the creation waits with eager longing for the revealing of the sons of God. For the creation was subjected to futility, not willingly, but because of him who subjected it, in hope that the creation itself will be set free from its bondage to corruption and obtain the freedom of the glory of the children of God. For we know that the whole creation has been groaning together in the pains of childbirth until now. And not only the creation, but we ourselves, who have the firstfruits of the Spirit, groan inwardly as we wait eagerly for adoption as sons, the redemption of our bodies. For in this hope we were saved. Now hope that is seen is not hope. For who hopes for what he sees? But if we hope for what we do not see, we wait for it with patience.

Likewise the Spirit helps us in our weakness. For we do not know what to pray for as we ought, but the Spirit himself intercedes for us with groanings too deep for words. And he who searches hearts knows what is the mind of the Spirit, because the Spirit intercedes for the saints according to the will of God. And we know that for those who love God all things work together for good, for those who are called according to his purpose. For those whom he foreknew he also predestined to be conformed to the image of his Son, in order that he might be the firstborn among many brothers. And those whom he predestined he also called, and those whom he called he also justified, and those whom he justified he also glorified.

What then shall we say to these things? If God is for us, who can be against us? He who did not spare his own Son but gave him up for us all, how will he not also with him graciously give us all things? Who shall bring any charge against God's elect? It is God who justifies. Who is to condemn? Christ Jesus is the one who died—more than that, who was raised—who is at the right hand of God, who indeed is interceding for us. Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? Shall tribulation, or distress, or persecution, or famine, or nakedness, or danger, or sword? As it is written,

“For your sake we are being killed all the day long;
we are regarded as sheep to be slaughtered.”

No, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us. For I am sure that neither death nor life, nor angels nor rulers, nor things present nor things to come, nor powers, nor height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus our Lord. (Romans 8 ESV)

Confessions of the Evangelical Lutheran Church

But faith differs from hope because faith receives in the present the forgiveness of sins and reconciliation, or God’s acceptance of us, on account of Christ. But hope is directed toward future good and future deliverance. (Augsburg Confession IV 304A. Book of Concord: The Confessions of the Evangelical Lutheran Church, edited by Robert Kolb and Timothy Wengert. Minneapolis: Fortress Press, 2000).

Because in this life we receive only the first fruits of the Spirit and our rebirth is not complete but rather only begun in us, the struggle and battle of the flesh against the Spirit continues even in the elect and truly reborn. For one can detect not only a great difference among Christians—one is weak, another strong in the Spirit—but within each Christian, who is at one moment resolute in the Spirit and at another fearful and afraid, at one moment ardent and love, strong in faith and hope, and at another cold and weak. (Solid Declaration, Article II: Free Will 557:68. Book of Concord: The Confessions of the Evangelical Lutheran Church, edited by Robert Kolb and Timothy Wengert. Minneapolis: Fortress Press, 2000).

The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod Atlantic District

Mission of the LCMS Atlantic District

The Atlantic District's congregations, workers and agencies share God's grace in Christ Jesus to nurture Christians and reach out to others.

Vision Statement of the LCMS Atlantic District

The Atlantic District is "Engaging the World with the Gospel of Hope" through:

• vitalized congregations that grow in the grace and work of the Body of the Christ through Word and Sacraments while reaching their neighborhoods and the world with the life and love of Christ;
• sanctified workers who are supported so that they love, teach and lead the baptized while seeking the lost and sharing the Gospel with all people; and
• dynamic agencies that are committed to partnerships in the Gospel that edify the faithful while transforming our society.

Some Statistics for the LCMS Atlantic District (reported for 2024)

*The official number reported to the Office of Rosters, Statistics, and Research is 91 congregations, but two congregations have merged and will be recognized as such during this convention.

Theme for the Sixty-Second Regular Convention of the LCMS Atlantic District

On July 10-11, 2025, the Sixty-Second Regular Convention of the LCMS Atlantic District is being conducted at Our Savior’s Lutheran Church in Colonie, New York with the theme, “In This Hope, We Were Saved” from Romans 8:24ESV. Each of those six words carries significant meaning. We are “in” this hope through Holy Baptism by the working of the Holy Spirit through the Word of God. We are in “this” hope because our hope is in Christ Jesus’ death, resurrection, ascension, and return (not some generalized “wish” that has no grounding, permanency, stability, or certainty). It is “hope” because we are called to look to the future based on the events of the past as both affect our present perspectives and work. “We” are in this together as we do more together and can encourage each other in the historical confession of the one true faith. “Were” denotes how this as accomplished for us in history through the death and resurrection of Christ Jesus our Savior who came in time and saved His people for all time. “Saved” demonstrates that our sinful condition has condemned us and yet Christ Jesus has rescued us from sin, death, and the devil by His grace, received by the Lord’s people in faith. The logo (creatively fashioned by Pastor George Carstensen with the district president) reminds how the crucified and risen Christ brings His people into hope through their baptisms into Christ so that they may serve Him in righteousness and with joy all their days as they look and live in hope to the day of His glorious return. It echoes the LCMS’ convention theme, “We Preach Christ Crucified,” the upcoming LCMS convention theme, “Christ Is Risen Indeed,” and the LCMS Mission Emphasis, “Making Disciples for Life” along with the theme of the LCMS Atlantic District, “Engaging the World with the Gospel of Hope.”

General Assessment

The 61st Regular Convention of the LCMS Atlantic District called for an assessment of life in the Atlantic District, especially because of the COVID-19 pandemic.

To that end and in fulfillment of the bylaws of the LCMS, it is a delight to report that, for the third year in a row, the LCMS Atlantic District has had one hundred percent (100%) reporting of congregational statistics to the LCMS Office of Rosters, Statistics, and Research. These statistics help in the assessment and analysis of the congregations and ministries of the district. Complying is part of membership in the Synod. This achievement has encouraged other districts in their pursuit to achieve this same goal.

Church worship services are being conducted. People are being baptized, confirmed, and communed. Couples are being united in holy matrimony. Mourners are being comforted. Bible studies are being offered and attended. Sunday Schools are meeting. Vacation Bible Schools are being planned. Public events are being attended. Online engagements are happening. Schools are teaching. Social service and counseling agencies are attending to people. Anniversaries of several types are being celebrated. Milestones are being reached. Strategic plans are being developed. New workers are being raised in the Atlantic District; it is the first time in collective memory that over ten people are in seminary and Concordia universities to prepare for full-time service in the Church. How grateful we can be to Jesus who makes all these things happen in the Atlantic District! That thanksgiving is focused clearly and distinctly on Jesus who brings Himself with His gifts to us. Baptized, absolved, communed, and given the Word for this moment, the Atlantic District continues “Engaging the World with the Gospel of Hope” by “Making Disciples for Life.”

It can seem discouraging and disconcerting, however, to consider the kinds of issues faced by the saints of the LCMS Atlantic District. As the Synod itself wrestles with the modes of preparation and certification for pastoral ministry and the perceived inadequacies of this among us and while many other issues that do not resonate clearly with people in our geographic area continue to gain the attention and energy of others throughout the Synod, our basic identification as evangelical, catholic, and reforming saints who bring the changeless message of Christ to a challenged world must be sharpened and not diminished. There are divine reasons why the Lord has the LCMS Atlantic District at this juncture. It not only is humbling but exciting. Being faithful unto death, the crown of life is promised. “Making Disciples for Life” by “Engaging the World with the Gospel of Hope” continues to be a privilege and joy. The Lord has given His Spirit to His people in the Atlantic District to keep all eyes on the Holy City and to serve Him with courage, bravery, and boldness. The Lord has not forsaken His saints; He will guide and keep His people in the Atlantic District as His people labor and anticipate His return in glory.

In fulfillment of the charge from the 61st Regular Convention, these three years have included serious assessments of this district. One thing that has helped this is the securing of the most accurate statistical information on baptized membership, confirmed membership, and average weekly attendance, in addition to visitations and conversations. It has been noted that many congregations no longer have Sunday Schools. Many elementary and high schools are struggling with enrollment (even as other schools throughout the Synod are growing or thriving). Most congregations of the Atlantic District have not had the same attendance they had before the pandemic (noting that there are exceptions with a few congregations that have experienced higher numbers than before the pandemic). A general malaise and a lack of energy and zeal for service have affected many workers, demonstrated in a decreased drive to serve, a waning affection for the institutional church and its synod structure, or a combination of both. The vulnerability of parishes, schools, and agencies in the current economic milieu feeds the fears that many have as they try to stem disaster. Finding new people to serve in leadership positions of parishes, schools, and agencies has become more challenging, especially with respect to finding gifted people to serve on boards of directors who are ready and willing to use their gifts in time-intensive manners and energy-intensive ways. With parishes, schools, and agencies not able to extend divine calls to workers with full salary packages, many workers have multiple jobs to make a living, and many workers serve in multiple settings; bi-vocational service is its own new normal. Contending with morale issues and combating a sense of hopelessness has been part of the work given to the workers of this district, especially as society’s mandates often are poised against the Church. Many parishes have shrunk in size so much that their ability to manage themselves has been compromised to their detriment as basic parish management has become untenable. Collaboration with the district, with other parishes, with other schools, with other agencies, and the like characterize a posture that indicates a different way of working for many people from their past ways.

Noted with this assessment is an excerpt of the report offered to the 68th Regular Convention of The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod from the Atlantic District:

The witness of individuals and congregations (LCMS Convention Resolution [R] 1-01A and LCMS Mission Priority [MP] 1) has been strengthened with monthly prayer guides that include every congregation of the district and monthly prayer meetings via Zoom. “Here I Stand Sunday” provided a chance to highlight witnessing despite threatening circumstances (R4-09). The Lutheran Church Extension Fund (LCEF) has assisted with ministry solutions and clarity while the district has begun pilot projects with Set Apart to Serve and Concordia Plans Services (MP4) in addition to other appropriate local partnerships to assist with revitalization, reorganization, and growth. Congregations, schools, and agencies have been informed of resources available from the LCMS national office while support for international mission has continued. Congregations are encouraged and assisted in the sharing of resources (R1-03) while addressing mental illness and other challenges through district task forces and partner organizations, especially because of the COVID-19 pandemic (R3-04A, MP4).

During the pandemic, a special Zoom educational gathering for pastors promoted an ongoing and healthy discussion about racism in the Church. A district convention resolution carries forward the Synod’s condemnation of racism while affirming the common humanity of all people (R11-04A, MP3) as the district engages daily in multiethnic outreach (R1-05A) and studies racism in the history of the Church with a desire to proclaim both Law and Gospel. As the district is undertaking a reassessment in conjunction with the LWML Atlantic District coming out of the pandemic, opportunities for continuing education for workers continued (in-person and online) while all members of the Synod continue to be encouraged to update their statistical information (R6-04, MP5) so that vitalized congregations, sanctified workers, and dynamic agencies reflect the vision of this district (words from the Vision Statement of the Atlantic District).

While giving thanks to the Lord for and providing for all schools (R12-01A, MP6), theological education (MP2) and supporting families (MP7) remain important priorities for the days ahead as the district’s task forces, board of directors, circuit visitors, praesidium and workers endeavor to address both the needs of the Church and the needs of those who do not have faith in Christ. The Atlantic District’s Festival of Workshops in March of 2023 was themed Making Disciples for Life and highlighted the Synod’s seven mission priorities to preach Christ crucified (1 Corinthians 1:18-25). It provided an opportunity to begin a new chapter in the life of the saints of this district with a parish pastor as its new bishop and president, highlighting not only the ties that bind the Lord’s people across the Synod who walk together but also a renewed commitment to vigorously make known the love of Christ by word and in deed with an evangelical, catholic, and reforming habitus to the praise and glory of God—the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit.

In order to understand that many of the trends experienced in the Atlantic District are not unique to this district, the following data reported to the LCMS Council of Presidents with respect to congregations, calling congregations, and vacancies from its April-May 2025 meeting can be informative:

These statistics indicate that the situation faced by many congregations in the Synod is like the situations faced by many in the LCMS Atlantic District. This means that a number of realities become clear:

1. Pastoral vacancies filled in a “traditional” mode take more time than they used to take.
   
2. Congregations that are open to creative and collaborative solutions to staffing and functioning could have shorter periods of pastoral vacancy and organizational uncertainty.
   
3. Compensation for workers and addressing other worker wellness needs are essential, especially as other congregations throughout the Synod seek to extend Divine Calls to pastors from the Atlantic District.
   
4. Engaging people to consider full-time church vocations is not optional.
5. Congregational viability is worth exploring so that efficient and effective work in the mission may remain a top priority.

Congregations Involved in Call Processes

Examining specific situations within the Atlantic District can be helpful with these ideas in mind when considering congregations involved in Call processes.

Northern Region:

Our Savior’s, Colonie (Senior Pastor; SMP Vicar Mark Chafee serves.)

St. John, Stuyvesant (Sole Pastor; vacancy attended to by The Rev. Dr. Victor

Nelson and The Rev. Stan Webster)

Saint Paul, Monroe (Sole Pastor; served by Interim Pastor Marty Tyce)

Resurrection, Latham (served by emeritus status Pastor, The Rev. Joel Janzow)

Good Shepherd, Hurley (Sole Pastor; served by The Rev. Stan Webster)

All Saints, LaGrangeville (Sole Pastor; served by The Rev. Don Lee)

Love, East Greenbush (Sole Pastor; served by The Rev. David Dietsche)

Central Region:

Immanuel, Mount Vernon (Sole Pastor; served by The Rev. Peter Deebrah)

Saint John the Evangelist, Williamsburg, Brooklyn (Sole Pastor; served by

The Most Rev. Dr. David H. Benke and The Rev. Matthew O. Staneck)

Trinity, Bay Ridge, Brooklyn (Sole Pastor; served by Bishop Taylor)

Risen Christ, Brooklyn (Sole Pastor; served by The Rev. Dr. Steven Hicks)

Chapel of the Redeemer, Flushing (Sole Pastor; served with district pastors)

Glory Korean, Bayside (Sole Pastor; served with district pastors)

Immanuel Chinese, Oakland Gardens (Sole Pastor, served with district pastors)

Lutheran Church of St. John, Flushing (Sole Pastor; served by The Rev. Desmond Sukhdeo)

Lutheran Church of the Resurrection, Flushing (Sole Pastor; served by The Rev. Alex Marque)

Good Shepherd, Laurelton (Sole Pastor; served by The Rev. Dr. Steven Hicks)

Eastern Region:

Trinity, Glen Cove (Sole Pastor; vacancy attended to by The Rev. Dr. Johnson Rethinasamy)

St. Paul, Bethpage (Sole Pastor; served by district pastors)

Grace, Central Islip (Sole Pastor; served by Pastor Sung Woo Leem)

Messiah, East Setauket (Sole Pastor; served by area pastors under the

supervision of The Rev. Circuit Visitor Peter Deberny)

Many congregations are at levels at which they no longer can do the work that congregations do (conducting worship services, paying pastors, maintaining their properties, supporting missions, etc.). It would seem preferable to try to make decisions about these situations before making decisions no longer is a prerogative. Helping those who have worked in particularly challenging situations will be paramount, especially as they can be protective of their work and the challenging decisions that need to be made may carry with them outcomes that they may have been trying to avoid for quite some time. Prayerful discernment and strategic action can help to steward that which has been given to the Church so that a positive future can be realized as all can be poised for a new day.

In many ways, an examination of the staff of the Atlantic District can be a helpful way to understand that which has happened during the last triennium as collaboration continues to underscore the work of the saints and as “Engaging the World with the Gospel of Hope” continues.

Statement Concerning the Investigation with respect to the Resignation of The Rev. Derek Lecakes as Bishop and President of the LCMS Atlantic District

At a regular meeting of the Board of Directors of The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod (LCMS) Atlantic District on December 2, 2021, the Internal Audit Department was commissioned by the LCMS Atlantic District Board of Directors to complete the regular financial audit of the Atlantic District for 2021.

The auditors discovered certain irregularities and shared their concerns with the Atlantic District Audit Committee in a meeting on November 8, 2022.

On November 11, 2022, after the meeting with the internal auditor, The Rev. Derek Lecakes resigned as the Bishop and President of the LCMS Atlantic District and retained legal counsel.

His resignation was accepted by the LCMS Atlantic District Board of Directors on November 12, 2022 during an emergency meeting of the Board of Directors.

In December of 2022, Derek Lecakes voluntarily resigned his Divine Call as the Associate Pastor of Christ Lutheran Church in Woodside and voluntarily resigned the roster of Ministers of Religion—Ordained of The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod.

In addition, Derek Lecakes and his family elected to move from the Bayside parsonage.

During this time, the operations of the Atlantic District continued unabated and, according to the bylaws of the LCMS, The Rev. Dr. Dien Ashley Taylor who was the First Vice-President of the Atlantic District, became the Bishop and President of the LCMS Atlantic District.

During the November 12, 2022 meeting of the Board of Directors, the Board of Directors appointed an Administrative Committee to investigate the issues connected with the resignation and to report its findings to the Board of Directors.

The Administrative Committee worked in conjunction with the legal counsel of the LCMS Atlantic District (Capell Barnett Matalon & Schoenfeld, LLP).

Seeking the assistance of a forensic auditor, Dr. Anthony Basile (Certified Public Accountant [CPA], Certified Valuation Analyst [CVA], and Certified Fraud Examiner [CFE]) was hired to investigate so that the Board of Directors would fulfill its fiduciary responsibilities as directors of the LCMS Atlantic District.

Dr. Basile’s office conducted a detailed examination with the full cooperation and assistance of the Atlantic District office staff and the Internal Audit Department of the LCMS; this examination included communication with Derek Lecakes.

Based on the forensic audit conducted, $256,295 is an uncontested sum of money that Derek Lecakes received and to which he was not entitled during his tenure as Bishop and President of the Atlantic District that does not include other amounts in question or expenses related to the investigation.

A plan for restitution has been finalized with the attorney for Derek Lecakes.

Policies and procedures have been enacted through the work of the Atlantic District’s new administration to safeguard the funds of the Atlantic District and to advance best practices for the financial stewardship of the Atlantic District’s financial resources. These include

• multiple people reviewing mail received by the Atlantic District;
• audit statements sent to congregations and donors to verify donations of congregations to the Atlantic District and to confirm receipt of funds sent from the Atlantic District to congregations;
• expenditures reviewed and approved by multiple people before disbursements are made;
• grant process with multiple levels of checks and balances employed.

As we pray as our Lord has taught us, we pray that this brings a resolution to this matter and encourage all to continue “Making Disciples for Life,” by “Engaging the World with the Gospel of Hope” in the service of the Lord Jesus Christ.

The above statement is an update on the statement from the Board of Directors of The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod (LCMS) Atlantic District on Thursday of Pentecost V June 27, 2024.

Other Staff Transitions

Mr. David de Jesus concluded his service as director of properties of the Atlantic District in November of 2022.

Mr. Peter Labenberg retired as Director of Stewardship and Finance and Vice-President of Lutheran Church Extension Fund in early 2023.

Ms. Kathleen Donaghy concluded her service as Administrative Assistant in the district office in early 2023.

Mr. Christopher Schmidt joined the Atlantic District staff as Director of Operations in early 2023 and completed his service in early 2025.

The Church rejoices in their service to the people of God.

Current Staff

Thanksgiving and praise are due to the Lord for the work of staff of this district. Bishop Emeritus David H. Benke has done wonderful work in assisting with many situations and using his pedagogical and andragogical gifts for the blessing of the Lord’s people. He continues to serve as the Pastor of St. Peter’s Evangelical Lutheran Church and School in Brooklyn, New York.

The Rev. Henry Albrechtsen, III continues to use his gifts in the Atlantic District Lay Deacon program so that people may be educated, encouraged, and formed for service. He had been serving as the Pastor of Good Shepherd Lutheran Church in Hurley, New York and All Saints Lutheran Church in LaGrangeville, New York and now serves as the Pastor of Good Shepherd Lutheran Church in Warwick, New York.

The Rev. Dr. Joshua Hollmann changed from being “Assistant to the Bishop” to be the Education Executive. He has worked closely with Pastor Albrechtsen on the Atlantic District Lay Deacon program and has facilitated educational opportunities via Zoom. He serves as the Pastor of True Light Lutheran Church in Manhattan, New York, Circuit Visitor of the Brooklyn and Staten Island Circuit, and Professor of Systematic Theology at Concordia University in St. Paul, Minnesota.

The Rev. George Carstensen uses his talents as the Director of Gospel Communications to produce the print, audio, video, and digital gifts that have been made available to the people of this district. He also has made necessary upgrades to the technological equipment employed for the district. In addition to this, he accepted the Call to serve as the Pastor of Immanuel Lutheran Church in Niskayuna, New York.

The Rev. Daniel Cohn transitioned from being Associate Director of Finance to Finance Associate, managing a number of transitions from the previous Director of Finance and assisting with the change to the LCMS auditor systems (instead of R. S. Abrams, the previous auditors). Assisting with new initiatives, he had been serving as the Pastor of St. John Lutheran Church in Stuyvesant but accepted the Divine Call to serve as the Pastor of St. Mark’s Second Evangelical Lutheran Church in Hudson, New York. He also became the pastoral counselor for the Lutheran Women in Mission (LWML) Albany Zone.

Ms. Carol Mittelstaedt has served as the Mission Society Coordinator, assuring successful Witness in the Public Square Gatherings (moved from Manhattan to Queens), the Festival of Workshops (begun in 2023 at Village Lutheran Church and The Chapel School in Bronxville and then moved in 2024 and 2025 to State University of New York Maritime in The Bronx), the Veterans of the Cross luncheon, and many other events. She has become a primary contact for event planning in the district. She does all this while serving at her congregation, St. James Lutheran Church in St. James, New York.

The Rev. Dr. Johnson Rethinasamy has served as the Mission Executive of the district, coordinating the needs of missionaries and missions of the Atlantic District. He has assisted with parish pastoral vacancies and strategic planning. He had served as the Pastor of Evangelical Immanuel Lutheran Church in Whitestone, New York and accepted the Call to serve as the Pastor of Trinity Evangelical Lutheran Church and School in Hicksville, New York.

Mrs. Mittelstaedt, Pastor Rethinasamy and the district president participated in multiple gatherings hosted by the LCMS Office of National Mission in St. Louis. These meetings were designed for mutual sharing, education, networking, and collaborating.

The Bishop and President of the LCMS Atlantic District also serves as the Pastor of Redeemer Evangelical Lutheran Church in The Bronx and as the LCMS President’s Voting Representative on the LCMS Board for National Mission.

In many ways, the staff members of the Atlantic District champion collaboration as each works in congregations in addition to their work in the Atlantic District. The vocational talents and gifts that each possess are used directly in individual congregations in addition to serving the wider Church as they remain keenly aware of the realities and challenges of contemporary parish life.

Collaboration beyond the Staff

The LCMS Atlantic District is thankful for the service of Mrs. Lynette Taylor (Resurrection, Garden City) who concluded her many years of service as an LCMS Reconciler during this triennium. Since the current district president was also one of these reconcilers, it was prudent to have two more people appointed and trained to be reconcilers. The district and synod give thanks to the Lord for DCE Michelle Kollmeier (Resurrection, Garden City) and The Rev. Adam Wiegand (St. Paul, Saratoga Springs) who were trained and certified as reconcilers, joining the other district reconciler Deaconess Raquel A. Rojas (Redeemer, The Bronx). The Rev. Charles Byer (Our Redeemer, Aquebogue) continues to serve as a hearing facilitator.

Ms. Linda Wardley, RN (Resurrection, Garden City) serves as the Parish Nurse Representative for the LCMS Atlantic District. Her interactions abroad have brought rich resources to the district that are shared and available as congregations want to enrich their work with parish nurses. Her presentations at the Festival of Workshops have encouraged many in this regard.

Thanks to God is offered for The Rev. Thomas Cusanelli (formerly of St. Luke, Dix Hills and now St. Paul, Amityville) who served as the District Disaster Response Coordinator. He concluded his service when he became the Pastor of St. Paul Lutheran Church in Amityville. The Rev. Sean Chapman has been appointed District Disaster Response Coordinator (DDRC) for the LCMS Atlantic District. He is the Pastor of Calvary Lutheran Church in East Meadow, New York and the Interim Executive Director of Martin Luther School in Maspeth, Queens. He has facilitated LERT training in the Eastern Region at Calvary in East Meadow. In addition, this training has occurred also at St. James in St. James. Pastor Chapman hopes to revitalize this work in the district.

The Rev. Jeffrey Browning had served as the PALS (Post-Seminary Applied Learning and Support) Coordinator of the LCMS Atlantic District until he concluded his time of service. He is the Pastor of Lutheran Church of the Resurrection in Garden City, New York. A new PALS coordinator is being appointed.

Lutheran Church Extension Fund (LCEF) Vice-President AJ Sinisgalli (St. James, St. James) serves the Atlantic District in addition to the New Jersey District and the New England District. As he is being incorporated into LCEF, he is eager to meet more people from the Atlantic District. Although this position no longer means that the Vice-President of LCEF serves on the staff of the Atlantic District, his work continues to coincide with the work of the staff of the Atlantic District. Special thanks are offered to Vice-President Brenda Bacon for her work with Atlantic District congregations, schools, agencies, and workers during the time of vacancy between the services of Mr. Labenberg and Mr. Sinisgalli; Vice-President Bacon serves the LCMS New England District.

The Rev. Billy Brath had worked with the LCMS Atlantic District through the Lutheran Church Extension Fund (LCEF) with respect to helping congregations discern their unique visions through the time that his service officially concluded. He is a member of True Light Lutheran Church in Manhattan.

Dr. Elizabeth Geiling (Village, Bronxville) is the newly appointed Executive Director of Lutheran Counseling Center. Having served as a counselor in this organization while teaching at Concordia College New York and then becoming the co-director, Dr. Geiling has shared her gifts and the resources of Lutheran Counseling Center so that people may receive assistance in times of need.

Although Lutheran Friends of the Deaf ceased being a Recognized Service Organization (RSO) of The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod during this triennium, the leadership team has worked diligently in the Christ-centered mission of sharing the Good News of Christ with those who have hearing impairments. Mr. William Charon (Trinity, Glen Cove) continues to serve as a trustee and The Most Rev. Dr. David H. Benke (St. Peter’s, Brooklyn) serve as the Chairperson of the Board of Directors.

Lutheran Social Services of New York (LSSNY) continues its work in assisting individuals and families. Dr. Damyn Kelly remains the President and Chief Executive Officer. Outreach in education and other social service opportunities has encouraged congregations to assist in this important work.

Dr. John Scibilia had done extensive work with congregations, schools, and workers of the LCMS Atlantic District through the Council of Church Advisors. His advice and counsel on behalf of the Atlantic District has helped many organizations and workers determine their standing and their future directions. Recently, he was made the Executive Director of Life Journey’s Ministries (LJM) as that organization’s mission is to help the Atlantic District.

Capell Barnett Matalon & Schoenfeld, LLP (CBMS) has been invaluable in their tireless support and efforts to assist the Atlantic District. Their work with individual workers, congregations, and schools has helped many in navigating both typical and atypical situations. The firm’s yearly workshop that is free of charge has helped countless people learn about important legal considerations for parish management. Firm members have presented at the Atlantic District’s Festival of Workshops and have done so free of charge. The firm also has provided information for parishes about operational ethics policies (conflict of interest policies) and other legal advice when appropriate. The firm, managed by Managing Partner Renato Matos, hosted the Atlantic District office for part of this triennium until the firm’s offices moved to a new location. CBMS made a generous donation from its previous office space of office equipment (desks, chairs, cabinets, etc.) to the Atlantic District for the district’s use as the new district office space that is being finalized at Hastings-on-Hudson.

General Management

During this triennium, the Board of Directors voted to suspend the district’s Task Force model for organization. It had been difficult to identify and mobilize people to serve in those capacities. Continued work based on continued assessment will determine a more efficient way to proceed as forward movement remains inevitable. Special thanksgivings are given for all who have served on Task Forces of the Atlantic District through the years.

In connection with this, The Rev. Dr. Johnson Rethinasamy (Trinity, Hicksville and Mission Executive of the LCMS Atlantic District) remains the contact person for missions. The Rev. Robert Boehler (St. Mark’s, Yonkers) continues to serve on the Board of Directors of Lutheran Schools Association. The Rev. James Dorner (Unity, Albany) continues to serve as the contact for Re:Vitality, the Synod’s initiative for helping with the revitalization of congregations. Atlantic District Treasurer Brian Martin (Good Shepherd, Hurley) and Finance Associate Rev. Daniel Cohn (St. Mark’s Second, Hudson) continue to be contacts for stewardship and financial needs. DCE Christopher Boccalupo (Trinity, Islip), Mrs. Carol Mittelstaedt (St. James, St. James), Deaconess Raquel A. Rojas (Redeemer, The Bronx), and DCE Jacquelyn Flynn (St. Luke, Dix Hills) continue to be contacts for work among younger people. Special thanksgiving is offered to the Lord for Ms. Raquel Young (Our Saviour, Fishkill) for serving as the District Coordinator for the 2025 LCMS Youth Gathering in New Orleans as all are grateful that a few congregations have come together to send young people as a group in order to maximize participation. “6 in the City” was begun during this triennium as a means of reaching young adults mainly in Brooklyn and Manhattan with some coming from The Bronx.

Thanksgivings to the Lord are given for Ms. Katherine Gonzalez and Ms. Amy Lecakes who concluded their work with coordinating the Retreat for the Wives of Pastors. Ms. Carol Mittelstaedt has worked closely with the district president to facilitate and organize these events. With a successful event in Westchester at a hotel, the next gathering is anticipated to happen at the newly renovated district office. Special gifts were given to all the wives of the district. Wives also are asked to indicate their wedding anniversaries so that these may be recognized by the Atlantic District in fulfillment of the LCMS Convention resolution to that effect.

The Board of Directors also voted to reorganize the circuits of the Atlantic District to match better that which had been happening already in congregations and regions. This convention will have an opportunity to affirm this change as it has been welcomed gladly by those congregations and workers directly affected by it.

Regular meetings of the Circuit Visitors and Praesidium members of the district continued during this triennium. The meetings included reporting from the district president about happenings in the national Synod, events and happenings in the district, and programs and events to highlight. These also provide opportunities to highlight events and practices in the circuits (like circuit convocations, LWML events, and other events that brought congregations together). They also provided opportunities to discuss vision in the circuits and plans in addition to offering opportunities to discuss casuistry and celebrate fellowship.

Trinity Lutheran Church in Walden voted to leave The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod during this triennium. The process for this decision happened before the current presidential administration and simply found its finality during this triennium. Thankfully, the district president has been invited by the congregation to present on the LCMS to the congregation now that they have experienced a number of other transitions subsequent to this parish’s departure from the LCMS. This opportunity for education can be fruitful as discussions can continue with this parish that has been part of the fabric of this district for many years.

Communication

The Atlantic District’s 61st Regular Convention asked for better communication in the Atlantic District. This has been addressed in several ways even as more ways are being planned and optimization continues to be the collective aspiration and goal.

The Rev. George Carstensen, Director of Gospel Communications, has worked in several ways to improve communication. He is updating the district website. The Atlantic District calendar remains on the website (ad-lcms.org). People continue to be encouraged to consult the calendar when planning events so that participation may be maximized. Pastor Carstensen has developed templates for the registration of people for conferences and events. He has chosen equipment used by the Atlantic District for events. He also has spent time in congregations of the Atlantic District helping with the installation of new audio-visual systems. He has made the workbook for this convention in an electronic-friendly format and will make the final proceedings in a reformatted paper-friendly format.

The monthly prayer guide continues to be facilitated with Mrs. Carol Mittelstaedt and formerly through Task Force Two. Prayers for individual congregations and workers is included with these weekly petitions. A newer emphasis on the awareness of other district and synod events along with holidays has helped these to be even more valuable for use. Petitions for specific people being installed on the weekends of their installations, for instance, have been a great blessing.

The staff of the LCMS Atlantic District has committed to praying for ordained and commissioned workers, congregations, schools, agencies, partners, and Synod workers as part of its meetings. Pastor Carstensen designed the beautiful card that is sent when these individual petitions are made during the staff worship services (which, when in person, include the Lord’s Supper and when not in person are services of the Word.).

Several Zoom prayer services have been conducted by the district during this triennium. This has given people a chance to pray together about specific issues and to remember the wider work of the Church.

Many congregations have increased their technology offerings. Much of this has happened because of the pandemic. Social media, YouTube, and other means of sharing have characterized the multiplicity of offerings given and provided as the saving Gospel of Jesus Christ and the enduring hope that is ours is shared.

This triennium also has seen Christmas cards and Easter cards sent to every worker, congregation, and agency of the district. They also were sent to entities of the Synod to encourage them in their work. Other greetings online have been offered for workers of the Church and for the public during festival times of the Church’s year.

It is the goal of the Board of Directors to share “Board Briefs” to describe things that have transpired during board meetings. These would include financial snapshots of income and expenses for the district. The desire is that these can be part of the experience of the coming triennium.

A memorandum has been sent regularly by the district president. In addition to including readings from Holy Scripture, the Lutheran Confessions and a “didache” section on theology, it includes much information about upcoming events, celebration moments, opportunities for service, Synod news, news beyond the LCMS, and the like. Many items in this report to the convention were shared already in these memoranda, so people are encouraged to sign up on ad-lcms.org to receive these if they have not done so already.

In addition, updates about happenings in the Atlantic District occur at every gathering—educational events on Zoom, Festival of Workshops, pastoral conference caucuses, etc., meetings for workers of the Church, circuit visitor meetings, praesidium meetings, retreats, and the like as the desire to increase communication remains a priority. With the desired addition of staff, communication should efforts should become even more fruitful in the coming triennium.

Education and Formation

The Festival of Workshops is one of the primary ways that education happens in a formal, in-person format hosted by the LCMS Atlantic District during the triennium. The event was offered three times during this triennium—first at Village Lutheran Church and The Chapel School in Bronxville and twice at State University of New York (SUNY) Maritime in The Bronx. With thirty workshops offered at each festival by thirty presenters and with exhibitors from different organizations that are available to attendees, the attendance at these events continues to climb. With plenary addresses led by the district president, significant financial savings have been achieved (as opposed to paying for a speaker’s travel and accommodations). It was a special blessing to have the Festival of Workshops offered during 2025—a district convention year (when these had not been offered in the past). A primary moment for encouragement, fellowship, worship, prayer, learning, and networking, the Festival of Workshops continues to be championed and appreciated as it deals with the many facets and aspects of parish life for congregations of all sizes and natures.

A few congregations in the Atlantic District have re-established Sunday Schools in their parishes. They may be small, but it is admirable that these efforts exist and are being encouraged. It is true that a number of congregations do not have Sunday Schools at the moment, the victory accounts of congregations that have restarted these religious education efforts serve as inspirations for others (St. Paul, Amityville; Trinity, Locust Manor; St. John, Glendale; and others). Workshops about these at the Festival of Workshops serve as a means of educating people about how this can be replicated.

“Forming Lutherans” arranges ways to help congregations and workers discover the blessings of the ancient catechumenate. The Atlantic District, at its 61st Regular Convention, commended this model for use. The newly published book by The Rev. Dr. Kent Burreson and Deaconess Dr. Rhoda Schuler entitled, Journey with Jesus: Faith Formation into Christ and Community, significantly highlights one congregation of the LCMS Atlantic District (Redeemer, The Bronx) in its work with this model. Both the deaconess and pastor of this parish have presented to seminarians at Concordia Seminary St. Louis during a course taught by Dr. Burreson so that students may learn more directly about this mode of discipleship.

The Board of Directors of the LCMS Atlantic District established an Education Committee during this triennium. It consists of Dr. David Hahn (commissioned; St. Paul, Saratoga Springs); The Rev. David Wackenhuth (District Vice-President; St. James, St. James); Atlantic District Lay Deacon Donna Haines (Lutheran Schools Association Executive Director; Trinity, Hicksville), and The Rev. Dr. Joshua Hollmann (Education Executive of the LCMS Atlantic District; True Light, Manhattan). The district president has led this group in its work of evaluating current schools of the Atlantic District. It has benefitted from an education consultant firm—MehtaCognition—that has assisted with the evaluation of Our Saviour Lutheran School in The Bronx and Martin Luther School in Maspeth as the schools seek to work closely together for a desired future. MehtaCognition will complete a preliminary report of its work this fall. It is hoped that the consultant and the committee will work with all the schools of the district so that strategic action can result from definitive spiritual discernment to strengthen viable schools and plant new schools in the future.

Thanks is offered for the service of Dr. Laura Labenberg (formerly of Resurrection, Garden City), who has concluded her service as Executive Director of the Lutheran Schools Association (LSA) and relocated outside the Atlantic District. LSA has been grateful for its new leadership in the person of Atlantic District Lay Deacon Donna Haines. With offices now based at Trinity Lutheran Church and School in Hicksville, LSA continues to offer services to support Lutheran schools in the Atlantic District and beyond and advocate for available funding to support those ministries.

The Chapel School in Bronxville and Trinity Lutheran School in Hicksville each received National Lutheran Schools Accreditation (NLSA) again during this triennium. Working with the Education Committee and district leadership, encouraging other schools to seek this and to achieve excellence remains a noble desire.

Education Executive Dr. Joshua Hollmann has organized speakers to present Zoom lessons to people for continuing education opportunities during this triennium. Beginning with an update on district activities and events, these presentations include plenary teaching and then opportunities for questions and answers. The nominal fee charged helps to pay for the presenter and fund other district education events. Presenters have included The Rev. Dr. R. Reed Lessing, The Rev. Dr. Phillip Brandt, and The Rev. Dr. Joshua Hollmann (True Light, Manhattan and Education Executive of the LCMS Atlantic District).

The Atlantic District Lay Deacon Program continues to offer people opportunities for education and growth in the Atlantic District and beyond, especially as people from other districts participate. The Rev. Henry Albrechtsen, III continues to organize the aspects of this program, encouraging pastors and laypeople to do their respective parts to make things successful. He has worked on this with The Rev. George Carstensen and The Rev. Dr. Joshua Hollmann so that the educational technology platform has been updated along with billing. Special accolades are offered to all the pastors who have taught in this program as the coming triennium will provide the opportunity to revise the handbook and sharpen the work that is being done in this ministry effort.

Immigration issues continue to be significant in the Atlantic District, especially as many congregations, workers, and agencies work directly with people affected by past and current realities. A guide was prepared through the LCMS Office of National Mission for congregations and schools with respect to best practices. In addition, the Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod Commission on Theology and Church Relations (CTCR) document, “Immigrants among Us” is commended for use with its accompanying Bible study. As many Winkel gatherings have discussed this issue formally and informally, congregations, workers, and agencies would benefit from growing in their understanding of the issues, their responsibilities, their rights, and their callings as they give glory and praise to the Lord Jesus Christ. Lutheran Immigration and Refugee Service (LIRS) is thanked for the times when appropriate help has been given to assist various people with diverse needs.

The overture submitted to the 2023 63rd Regular Convention of the LCMS from the Atlantic District on violence did receive a response from The Rev. Dr. Joel Lehenbauer, Chair of the Commission on Theology and Church Relations (CTCR). It is included in the workbook for review. In summary, the district is encouraged to take action locally as the wider Church takes into consideration the concerns as the CTCR undertakes its work on the assignment of addressing “the relationship among Church, State, and Christian love of neighbor” (Resolution 11-05)

Thanks be to God for The Rev. Matthew O. Staneck and The Rev. Matthew Ryan Gonzalez who completed their work on the pastoral conference committee. Thanks also is offered to Our Savior Lutheran Church in Fishkill and the Pastor—The Rev. John Young—along with Trinity Lutheran Church and School in Hicksville along and the Pastor and Minister of Music—The Rev. Dr. Johnson Rethinasamy and Mr. Henry DeVries—who have hosted these conferences while the new district office space is being completed. The Tri-District Pastoral Conference hosted by the LCMS Atlantic District in Pittsfield, Massachusetts in May of 2025, welcoming the LCMS New England District and the LCMS New Jersey District, was well received by those who shared their responses. It is hoped that more of these can be hosted in the future as the three districts comprised “the old Atlantic District.” Pastoral conference presenters during this triennium have included The Rev. Dr. Don Ray, The Rev. Dr. Lawrence Vogel, The Rev. Dr. Yared Halche, The Rev. Dr. Naomichi Masaki, and The Rev. Dr. Ely Prieto.

Other continuing education opportunities have been offered. The LCMS Atlantic District hosted its first ever (or, at least in a very long time) all-workers’ conference. Conducted on Zoom, DCE Heath Lewis presented on trends for reaching young adults with the Gospel of Christ Jesus. Commissioned and ordained members of the district participated in this conference.

Lutheran Ministries in Higher Education (LMHE) participants have met during this triennium. The Metropolitan New York Synod of the ELCA and the LCMS Atlantic District (who, as church body denominations, are participants) have discerned that it is best to serve by parting ways. The agreement should be that the LCMS Atlantic District maintains the ministry and work at Queens College as the Metropolitan New York Synod of the ELCA governs and manages the other parts of the current LMHE. Arrangements are being made to finalize and formalize this with legal counsel. The Rev. Dr. Johnson Rethinasamy and The Rev. Sean Chapman, both formerly from Evangelical Immanuel Lutheran Church in Whitestone and The Rev. Travis Yee—the current Pastor of Evangelical Immanuel Lutheran Church in Whitestone—have continued noble work at Queens College with necessary campus ministry.

Efforts and Initiatives

Collaborative efforts have characterized this triennium. Good Shepherd in Hurley and All Saints in LaGrangeville no longer are functioning as a dual parish but may work with other congregations as their respective pastoral vacancies are being navigated. Martin Luther School in Maspeth and Our Saviour Lutheran School in The Bronx are coming together to fulfill their missions and offer quality Lutheran education to young people. This convention will recognize the merger of St. Paul Lutheran Church in Albany and St. Matthew Lutheran Church in Albany as “Unity Lutheran Church” in Albany, meeting at the former Christ Lutheran Church in Albany at 1500 Western Avenue, a property owned and operated through LJM. Trinity Lutheran Church and School in Hicksville has been working closely with Trinity Lutheran Church in Glen Cove (a daughter congregation) during the pastoral vacancy at Glen Cove. The Eastern Region circuits (especially the two Suffolk County circuits) have had successful retreats for their pastors, highlighting collaborative service. Circuit convocations throughout the Atlantic District have served as opportunities for congregations to come together and work together for the Kingdom. Trinity Lutheran Church and School in Hicksville has provided the new home for Lutheran Schools Association. The Brooklyn-Staten Island Circuit has continued to offer midweek Lenten worship services at different congregations in collaborative formats. At the time of this writing, Circuit Visitor Justin Vetrano has indicated that St. Paul Lutheran Church in Bethpage seeks to merge into The Life Lutheran Church in Old Westbury, so conversations and meetings will occur to address this. The coming triennium, if the Lord spares life, will involve more collaborative activities and efforts.

The Witness in the Public Square Luncheon has been conducted three times during the triennium. By lessening (but not eliminating) the emphasis on fundraising and making the event more about celebrating how the Lord has worked in people’s lives among the servants of the district, several changes were made. One, the event cost per ticket was cut in half so that it could be more accessible to more people. Two, the event location was changed from midtown Manhattan to Queens, facilitating a better price per person and better parking. Three, honorees who were local were sought to reduce the funds needed to support their presence. Attendance at the luncheon has increased and many have appreciated the changes as responsive to the changing times.

The Veterans of the Cross Luncheon continues to be conducted at the Siwanoy Country Club in Bronxville. Now including the Holy Eucharist with open seating and ample time for fellowship, retired servants have been provided an opportunity to share with each other the gifts of the Lord and encourage the next generation in service to Christ.

The LCMS Veterans of the Cross program has been a blessing for workers of the Church in the Atlantic District as this program provides financial assistance that is matched by the Atlantic District to help church workers in need. It is a blessing that funds are available in the Atlantic District to facilitate this.

To encourage workers of the Church, the Bishop Ronald Fink Memorial Educational Scholarship Fund and the Marohn Scholarship Fund continue to provide economic assistance to those who are aspiring to full time service in the Church. As funding from the seminaries is not provided for SMP students, these district funds have helped many future workers by paying tuition costs, especially when their congregations cannot afford to assist these students financially.

Set Apart to Serve (SAS) is the Synod-wide initiative for raising new workers in the Church. This has worked in conjunction with the Atlantic District’s resolutions to pray for new workers and home-grown workers for service in the Kingdom. Deaconess Raquel A. Rojas and the district president had worked on this initiative together before this triennium and that work has continued in this triennium. Addressing the needs of the Church in a long-term fashion, SAS resources are available for use by congregations, workers, and agencies of the district.

The new LCMS website now should be up and running this summer. Content migration has caused the commencement of this to be delayed as years of content needed to be transferred to the new website. The work on merging Lutherans Engage and Lutheran Witness continues with LCMS and CPH offices working on a business plan to accomplish this. All Synod publications (like articles from the new Lutheran Witness and Reporter) would be available on lcms.org when the new website is activated.

Lutheran Women in Mission—The Lutheran Women’s Missionary League of the Atlantic District (LWML AD)—has been a great blessing to the LCMS Atlantic District. President Deaconess Raquel A. Rojas (Redeemer, The Bronx) has assured that mission festivals have been conducted (Two mission festivals were conducted at Redeemer in The Bronx while the district office facility has not been ready for occupancy). Zones and local groups have been rejuvenated with President Deaconess Rojas’ theme, Atrévete en Cristo! “Dare in Christ!” while individuals in the LWML Atlantic District have been encouraged in “reassessing, reimagining, and revitalizing” as they see their purpose not only in raising funds for mission but helping their local congregations in the work of the Church. Thankfully, many new local groups have begun in the Atlantic District during this triennium. In addition to this, many congregations and agencies of the Atlantic District have benefited from mission grants.

Deaconess Raquel A. Rojas also has been serving as an instructor for the LCMS’ Lutheran Visitation Education (LVE) program. Offered as an online instruction experience, students are prepared for service in visitation and would receive a certificate from the LCMS at the conclusion of their training.

“Ministry Among Guyanese” has changed its name to “Christ for the Caribbean.” As the committee has been meeting, special thanksgivings to the Lord are offered for those involved directly with these meetings and with the planning for the future, including The Rev. Peter Deebrah (St. Matthew, Manhattan and Immanuel, Mount Vernon), The Rev. Christoph Schulze (St. Matthew, Brooklyn and St. Paul, Brooklyn), The Rev. Edward Alexander “Alex” Marque (Christ, Woodside), and The Most Rev. Dr. David H. Benke (St. Peter, Brooklyn).

Dr. Jean Boehler (Cantor of Redeemer, The Bronx) continues to serve on the Board of Directors of the Association of Lutheran Church Musicians (ALCM). She has published articles for musicians and worship leaders of the Church. It will be helpful to have meaningful conversations about music in Atlantic District parishes. Many congregations no longer use live musicians. Others that have live musicians do not have the kind of results that they would desire in fulfillment of the mission. As musicians retire and congregational dynamics change, collaborative work in this area would be of value.

The Rev. Dr. Joshua Hollmann (True Light, Manhattan) serves as Professor of Systematic Theology at Concordia University, St. Paul, Minnesota. As such, he travels and lectures around the country and the world, “Engaging the World with the Gospel of Hope.” He has hosted a class of students in New York City to learn about ministry in urban contexts as the Atlantic District continues to be a classroom for many.

The Rev. Dr. Robert Carter (Missionary of the LCMS Atlantic District serving West Point Ministries) has published articles in the area of counseling.

The Rev. Dr. Kenneth Doka (Pastor of Family of Faith Lutheran Church, Middletown and St. Peter Lutheran Church, Warwick) continues to lecture abroad and publish works on the topic of grief.

Many chaplains continue to serve diligently in the LCMS Atlantic District, including The Rev. Dr. Mark Schaarschmidt and The Rev. Kelly-Ray Meritt (Immanuel, Mount Vernon). The Lutheran Care Network (TLCN) continues to offer provide care in multiple settings for adults with varying needs. Special thanks to Mrs. Janet George for her work with this agency.

Lutheran Counseling Center benefits from the counseling services offered by The Rev. Dr. Ronald Lehenbauer (Resurrection, Garden City) and The Rev. Dr. David Elseroad (Trinity, Hawthorne). Dr. Elizabeth Geiling (Village, Bronxville) and Board Chairperson Ms. Linda Guteres (Grace, Mastic Beach) continue to seek ways to strengthen the relationship of Lutheran Counseling Center with congregations and workers of the Atlantic District. Praise is offered to the Lord for The Rev. Michael Staneck (Trinity, Islip) for his service as chairperson of the Board of Directors of Lutheran Counseling Center that concluded during this triennium.

Chrism Masses were conducted in the triennium that focused on the salvation that is ours by grace through faith on account of Jesus Christ in all three regions of the Atlantic District (instead of only one worship service offered in the Central Region during Holy Week). Thanksgiving to God is given for Zion in Schenectady, Redeemer in The Bronx, and Holy Trinity in Middle Island for hosting these during Holy Week during this triennium. It is good to encourage pastors in their vocations of service as they have opportunities to affirm their ordination vows during the Chrism Mass.

“Worker Wellness” and navigating the challenges of work in the Church today will be essential for our future collective and collaborative efforts. Many workers—lay, commissioned, and ordained—are discouraged. Lutheran Counseling Center, Doxology (a Recognized Service Organization of the LCMS), and other resources are being made available to assist workers in their service. Funding continues to be available for circuits and regions to be used by circuit visitors and vice-presidents to attend to the needs of workers of the church and their families by taking them out to meals and sponsoring educational activities. This triennium has seen that happen numerous times.

The Atlantic District’s Committee on racism as created from the 61st Regular Convention has met and is reorganizing with a desire to present items at the 63rd Regular Convention. The work of the committee has been to understand the history of the Atlantic District’s work among all nations and to foster opportunities for people of distinct cultural backgrounds to come together for worship, education, and service.

In order to proclaim the hope of Christ and salvation in Him, an emphasis during this triennium has included branding efforts. This began with specific questions about the branding of The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod and its desired way for districts to describe themselves. Acknowledging this as “LCMS Atlantic District” and “the Atlantic District of The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod (LCMS)” and “The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod Atlantic District,” the theme of the Atlantic District—“Engaging the World with the Gospel of Hope”—was combined with the Mission Emphasis of The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod—“Making Disciples for Life” so that clear connections were made with the rest of the Synod. Many efforts were expended to communicate this clearly. This included changing the letterhead and all communication instruments to reflect this. It also included the production of pins with the logo of the LCMS Atlantic District, pens with the logo and message, and keychains with the same on them. Each have been received with gladness and thanksgiving.

This effort included Pastor Carstensen’s production of the video that debuted at the Witness in the Public Square gathering. A goal of this first video was to provide a relatively short media piece that could be used to share why there is a Synod and an Atlantic District and how “We Do More Together.” It is designed to be shown by congregations to worship assemblies or during meetings of committees in parishes to help people understand what the purpose of the district is and why its mission is important, especially mindful that many who view it will be experiencing despair in their own ministry contexts. It is about how “In This Hope, We Were Saved.” An expanded second video, anticipated in the coming triennium, will provide more information to those who want to learn more about the LCMS Atlantic District.

A final way of communicating this new day for the Atlantic District is the initiative of moving the district offices to Hastings-on-Hudson, New York. St. Matthew Evangelical Lutheran Church in Hastings-on-Hudson ceased operations a few years ago and the property became the property of LJM while decisions could be made about the future. When the district was sharing office space in Manhattan with Capell Barnett Matalon & Schoenfeld, LLP (after Concordia College New York ceased operations) and the law firm had decided to move to another site in Manhattan, it seemed apparent that moving out of Manhattan could make the district’s headquarters more accessible and provide an opportunity for embarking on a new day. It also could provide an opportunity to have the offices, archives, and activities of the district in one place, preferably with some parking available. The property at Hastings-on-Hudson seemed to fit as a place that could be renovated for use. Southern Westchester provides a favorable geography for most of the district as it is in the vicinity of the former Concordia College New York along with major highway connections and access to a north/south train routes.

7 Farragut Avenue in Hastings-on-Hudson has both a church building and an educational building. The church building houses a worship space, a space for the district’s archives, and a space for a library of district books. The educational building has room for offices and meetings with a large room and kitchen for larger meetings. Much time and attention were devoted to the renovation process and design by the district president during this triennium as it is an investment in the future of the Atlantic District. At the time of this report, final work is being completed on the facilities to secure the required certificate of occupancy. Global artwork to echo “Engaging the World with the Gospel of Hope” combined with artwork and artifacts from congregations that have closed (St. Matthew Evangelical Lutheran Church in Hastings-on-Hudson and Emanuel Lutheran Church in Corona, for examples) have provided this historically tasteful and simultaneously contemporary space that is up to date for modern use. It is an example of how LJM has been a help to the work of the Atlantic District and will be helpful in the future as this dedicated space (one that is not shared with Concordia College or the law firm, etc.) can be of service to the Church for years to come for hosting retreats, conferences, meetings, and other gatherings. Pastor Carstensen’s assembling of modern technological equipment, Pastor Cohn’s assembly of book shelves, Mrs. Mittelstaedt’s attention to the needs of each room all have contributed to that which will be a shining example of collaborative partnership that is thankful for the past, functional in the present, and promising for a bright future of “Making Disciples for Life” as it will be a central place for gathering, learning, worship, fellowship, and growth. It is hoped that the building facilities can be dedicated in the autumn of 2025. Special thanks to Redeemer Evangelical Lutheran Church in The Bronx for providing office space and working space for the Atlantic District to function during this time of transition.

Stewardship

The mission of the LCMS indicates, In grateful response to God’s grace and empowered by the Holy Spirit through Word and Sacraments, the mission of The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod is vigorously to make known the love of Christ by word and deed within our churches, communities and the world (emphasis added). Stewardship is part of that grateful response.

It is a joy to report that congregational financial giving to the Atlantic District for the sake of the work of the Kingdom in the wider Church has increased during this entire triennium. All glory and praise be to Jesus Christ. With that, the giving of the Atlantic District to the LCMS also has increased—praise the Lord. Funds that had been collected for disasters have been disbursed during this triennium. Financial assistance has been provided for “LIFE for Ukraine,” the effort initiated by The Rev. Justin Vetrano and The Life Lutheran Church in Old Westbury. Major improvements in financial reporting and management during this triennium have been instituted and communicated so that the resources of the Church are protected and used as they have been intended.

No major fundraising campaigns have been conducted during this triennium by the LCMS Atlantic District. As reorganization was happening and financial management improvements were being made, this seemed to be the best route forward as the purpose and importance of the Atlantic District could be shared and people educated to that end. It has been a goal to attend to needs within the district structure so that reporting can happen about the finances of the district. When that goal is met, fundraising opportunities will be instituted more widely. This triennium has concentrated on the stewardship of people and property that will help launch a renewed appreciation for the stewardship associated with fundraising for particular projects and needs in the coming triennium.

Funding the mission of the Atlantic District is important, though, as the district generously funds the students who are preparing for full time vocations in the Church, especially since the institutions where they attend do not provide for all the needs that students have when they are in SMP programs and the like. The pledge and desire of the Atlantic District is to do whatever is possible so that students may focus on their studies and prepare for service without the burden of finances unnecessarily distracting them. For that reason, then, giving to the Atlantic District helps fund needed staff members, helps in the managing of properties that host missions and congregations, and helps with the institution of new initiatives as people are “Making Disciples for Life” by “Engaging the World with the Gospel of Hope.”

The basic funding of the district comes from direct gifts from individuals, donations from congregations (“Shared Ministry Support”), interest from investments, and grants. The financial giving from congregations and individuals does not cover the basic and general expenses of the district. This is why investments and grants are particularly important. To help with this end, Life’s Journey Ministries (LJM) continues to help with the management of properties of the Atlantic District as it exists to help the work of the Atlantic District. Dr. John Scibilia recently was appointed as the new Executive Director with Mr. Gregory Bowman serving in an assisting capacity.

The Bayside, Queens parsonage used by the former bishop and president of the district (40-30 219th Street) was sold during this triennium.

The Board of Directors continues to update the pastoral salary guidelines each year. In addition, the Board of Directors has submitted an overture to this convention to encourage salary guidelines for commissioned workers as well.

Insurance costs have risen exponentially during this triennium. Assistance has been offered to parishes from the district on ways to proceed in these challenging times.

Other Collaborative Connections

In addition to events at congregations and schools as part of regular visitations and in celebration of special milestones, this district has been represented through the district president in several ways. This includes the Multi-Ethnic Symposium of Concordia Seminary in St. Louis at which Atlantic District congregation Redeemer Evangelical Lutheran Church in The Bronx was highlighted. It includes the Multi-Asian Gathering and CLIMB (Chinese Lutherans In Mission Building). It includes the opportunity to preach at Easter Choral Evening Prayer at Concordia Theological Seminary in Fort Wayne (2025), directing the Council of Presidents Choir for recording hymns for Worship Anew, presenting to the Council of Presidents and the faculty of Concordia Seminary St. Louis on ministry in urban contexts in the Atlantic District, and preaching for Call Day at Concordia Seminary St. Louis (2025). Upcoming meetings include President James Sanft of Concordia Plans and President Jonathan Schultz of Concordia Publishing House in fulfillment of directives from the 61st Regular Convention. Bringing greetings to the LCMS New England District’s 20th Regular Convention and the LCMS New Jersey District’s 20th Regular Convention have been part of these representations in addition to participating in a foro in the Dominican Republic sponsored through the Office of International Mission and the Office of the President of the Synod. At the time of this writing, the district president will attend a gathering of Higher Things (a Recognized Service Organization of The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod focused on youth and young adults) and the convention of Lutheran Women’s Missionary League (an official auxiliary of the LCMS). Efforts to revitalize ministry among men have begun in local congregations through Lutheran Hour Ministries (LHM) as well.

In addition to pastoring Redeemer Evangelical Lutheran Church in The Bronx, the district president continues to serve as the Synod President’s Voting Representative to the LCMS Board for National Mission and as the Vice-Chairman of the Board. As this is the first time that a district president has served in this capacity in the history of the Synod, it has provided a means of connecting the Council of Presidents with the work of the Board for National Mission and, in turn, the Office of National Mission. Part of the work of this convention will be to address the Seven Mission Priorities and the Mission and Ministry Emphasis (Making Disciples for Life). The Atlantic District is being given a unique opportunity to offer perspectives to the rest of the Synod, another reason for rejoicing.

In This Hope, We Were Saved

The work of the Atlantic District, then, throughout this past triennium would appear daunting and frustrating for many. And yet, “In This Hope, We Were Saved” is not simply the theme of a convention but the solid proclamation of people who espouse the theology of the cross. Truly evangelical, our focus on the Suffering Servant is reflected, embodied, and understood in the suffering of His people today. Truly catholic, the connection to history, geography, and both broad and specific purpose underscores how others throughout the ages have faced similar challenges and have been delivered through them so that the proclamation of the Gospel continues in earnest. Truly reforming, the Church rests in Christ but does not rest from the doxological labor of persistently seeking ways to do things better and to appreciate the nuanced and multivalenced beauty with the kaleidoscopic grandeur of the Gospel and its life-changing and salvific import. That indicated, several reforms have characterized the evangelical and catholic proclamation of Christ in the Atlantic District. Sometimes painful and sometimes joyful, the efforts of the saints of the Atlantic District have not been exerted in vain. We are supported by the wider Church and have received encouragement in our work from LCMS President Harrison and countless others. We are baptized for this moment, preaching Christ crucified, and proclaiming, “Alleluia! Christ is risen!”

Almighty and ever-living God, You fulfilled Your promise by sending the gift of the Holy Spirit to unite disciples of all nations in the cross and resurrection of Your Son, Jesus Christ. By the preaching of the Gospel spread this gift to the ends of the earth; through the same Jesus Christ, our Lord, who lives and reigns with You and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever. (Lutheran Service Book, Pentecost Eve)

Respectfully submitted by

Dien Ashley Taylor

Bishop and President of The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod Atlantic District
Pastor, Redeemer Evangelical Lutheran Church, The Bronx, New York
LCMS President’s Voting Representative to the LCMS Board for National Mission