As followers of Christ, Faith Lutheran members feel compelled to help support the unmet basic human needs of our neighbors both locally and globally. Our congregation offers many different opportunities to accomplish this through financial contributions, in-kind donations, and volunteering. We have several committees that work in various ways to benefit different groups and concerns. If you would like to get involved, email the church office at faith@faithlutheranokemos.org.
Pantry
In efforts to support our community, Faith Lutheran maintains food and personal care item micro-pantries both on the church’s property and at the Okemos Library. These pantries are available 24/7 to anyone in need in the community. For more information, check out our Micro-Pantries page.
Caring
The Caring Committee supports, encourages and cares for our members and our community. We work with Meridian Township to support identified families in need with food support. We actively reach out to our elderly and shut-in members to maintain their connection with our church family. The caring committee works with the congregation to support our members when needs arise. Once a year we receive donations of clothing, diapers and all needs for babies and toddlers that we deliver to Shared Pregnancy. The committee remains flexible in our focus to ensure we are open to current needs. Chairperson(s): Kathy Mace & Natalie Dingledine.
Christian Education
Composed of volunteers from our church, the Christian Education Committee oversees and helps coordinate our Sunday School Program, along with assisting the Confirmation and High School Programs as needed. The committee meets at different times throughout the year to review our youth programs and make future plans. Learn more about our education programs. Chairperson(s): John McCracken.
Visitation Team
Evangelism and Outreach strives to welcome newcomers to Faith and to connect with those in our community who are searching for a church home and those who may not realize they are searching for a church home. This committee organizes our annual picnic each August on the Saturday before school resumes — join us for food, games, live music, and fellowship. Chairperson(s): Brenda Kopf.
Green Team
The Green Team engages a number of issues related to caring for God’s creation. Our mission is to work on ways for members of the congregation to reduce waste by recycling and improving energy efficiency, both in our life together and in our homes, and provide opportunities for education, engagement and public advocacy in caring for this beautiful Earth. Visit the Environmental Justice page for more information. Chairperson(s): Randy Royalty.
Membership Development
The role of the Membership Development Committee is to plan a variety of activities/opportunities for the fellowship of our congregants. Chairperson(s): Tammy Heilman, Diane Hill, Jamie Royalty, Laurie Hereza and Mike Nussdorfer.
Property
The Property Committee does repairs and performs routine maintenance to the church building, parish house, and grounds as needed. It’s also responsible for obtaining the services of outside contractors for lawn mowing, parking lot snow plowing, and any other services needed. Chairperson(s): Bob Nelson and Rick Beaderstadt. If you would like to help maintain our church property with the various repairs and improvements we do when needed, please contact Bob Nelson.
Reconciling in Christ (RIC)
The RIC Team at Faith works to provide opportunities for the congregation to fully live into the full and inclusive welcome as stated in Faith’s Welcome Statement. These opportunities include education and other activities within our congregation and also community outreach activities like participating in community pride events. Chairperson(s): Rich Weingartner.
Finance
The committee performs annual audits and encourages congregation members to support Faith Lutheran Church both financially and with their talents. By doing so, it ensures that Faith can continue its longstanding commitment of helping our community. Chairperson(s): Matt Schnizlein
Technology
The Media and Technology Committee helps with issues of technology at Faith Lutheran Church. Currently, the committee focuses on digital media presence, a livestream broadcast of each Sunday service, and regular maintenance of computer equipment for church staff. Chairperson(s): Ryan Thompson
Worship
The Worship Committee works with the pastor to provide a meaningful worship experience for our congregation. It comprises worship service design, ushers, and more! Chairperson(s): Diane Hill. Altar Care Coordinator: Elaine Harrison. Greeter Coordinator: Mike Eschelbach. Usher Coordinator: Brenda Kopf.
Mutual Ministry
The Mutual Ministry Committee (MMC) meets every three months and provides support for our pastor. Mutual ministry is designed to strengthen the life and well-being of the church. The MMC can facilitate dialogue between the congregation and pastor, and keeps the pastor advised about the conditions within the congregational family. Chairperson(s): Mark Kadrofske.
Human Resources
The main function of the Human Resources Committee is to support the evaluation process of staff members at Faith Lutheran Church, to keep job descriptions and evaluation documents applicable and updated, help fill positions as they become vacant, and problem-solve with any staff member who may have a work-related challenge. Chairperson(s): Lori Haven.