Hello good people of Trinity Lutheran. With this being my first newsletter, I wanted to take a minute to share a little about what a SAM (Synod Approved Minister) is, and what my calling to Trinity is looking like. A Synod Approved Minister is a servant position much like a rostered pastor; however, with the ever- changing world and the shortage of pastors, our synod offices have been trying to meet the needs of their parishes. Having a SAM program is one of the ways. What this means is that I have gone through an interview process with the Bishop and was selected by the Bishop and a congregation. I will begin taking courses through the synod, and continue annually with such coursework. I am also supported by a mentor, Pastor Matthew Engum from Detroit Lakes. I will be proceeding with coursework through the synod until I am accepted to seminary. I plan to attend Luther Seminary as an extended student, or on-line as much as possible so I can continue to serve Trinity. That all being said, I do hold the responsibilities of a pastor, and will serve as such for you, only with the title, “minister”.