A heartfelt thank you to every person who has ever stepped up and agreed to have their name on a ballot for an elected position at First Lutheran. Whether you served on the Congregational Council, the Endowment Board, the Nominating Committee or as a representative to the Nebraska Synod Assembly, your contribution has been invaluable.
It’s not always easy to step outside our comfort zones. Saying “yes” to a leadership role can feel like a big leap. Yet, so many who have taken that leap have found the experience to be deeply rewarding in ways they never expected.
Each year, the Nominating Committee puts together a list of committed candidates. These are people from our own community who step forward, often with a mix of excitement and a little bit of hesitation. They understand that their service helps our church not just function, but truly thrive. It’s never about being a perfect leader or having an endless supply of free time. Instead, it’s about discovering talents you didn’t know you had and using them to strengthen our church family.
Erin Niebuhr, a member of our Nominating Committee, puts it perfectly. She acknowledges that it’s completely normal to feel hesitant. But she has also seen how those who take that step often find the experience to be unexpectedly meaningful. Think about what you might discover by saying yes: a deeper connection with others, real personal growth, and the simple joy that comes from giving back. As First Lutheran navigates a path forward, your unique voice and perspective could be exactly what’s needed to help guide it.
In just a few weeks, during worship on September 20 and 21, you’ll have the opportunity to nominate individuals you believe would be excellent candidates for our 2026 leadership roles. Over the next week, we encourage you to spend time in prayer, reflecting on those in our congregation whose dedication, gifts, and skills would bring blessings to these important positions.
Can’t wait or unsure if you’ll be in church on those dates? No problem! Click here to share your leadership nominations today.
If you are approached about having your name on the ballot for 2026, we encourage you to pause and truly consider it before declining. Think about the ways you could make a difference, and just as importantly, all the ways the experience could bless you in return. As Erin reminds us, “Everyone has something wonderful to give.”
So, say yes. You might be surprised at how much it matters—not just to your church family, but to you.
