Ad Crucem NewsLCMS 2026

Ad Crucem NewsLCMS 2026 ConventionBoard for National Mission

Great Plains Region

2 candidates placed on this slate by the Committee for Convention Nominations.

Candidates (2)

1.
Vernon W. KettelhakeTecumseh, NE
· Dist. Sales Mgr· LCMS member 68 yrs

Personal statement

I believe in taking a humble approach to mission work-like Mission Central–and making it personal. Most importantly, mission work is about showing and telling that Jesus died for us. The Great Commis- sion tells us that Jesus will always be with us as we carry out His command. We should not brag about money we have in savings but humbly find ways to use it to tell all people what Jesushas done for us. I have served my local church as congregational secretary, trustee, and member of the board of education and the board of elders. I have been an active supporter of missions, especially through Mission Central and Gary Thies.

Congregation service

Years
  • Tchr
  • Cong. Voter's Assembly Secy3
  • Trustee3
  • Bd. of Ed6
  • Elder6
  • Chm. Church Anniv. Com

Other service

  • Agricultural Field
  • Supporter of Miss. and Miss. Central
2.
Sarah RauschChelsea, SD
Our Savior, Aberdeen SD· Freelance Writer/Editor· LCMS member 42 yrs

Personal statement

Spending my formative years growing up at Concordia Sem- inary gave me a front-row view of the beauty, sacrifice, and trials inherent in ministry and church work. These trials are increasing in both intensity and number, making the sound doctrine, education, mission work, and witness of the LCMS more crucial than ever. God has given our Synod boundless treasures in our congregations and schools that we need to steward and protect for upcoming generations. If elected to the Borad for National Mission, I will use my personal and professional experiences to support its mission and to serve God to the best of my ability. Also candidate for: Concordia Publishing House

Synod service

  • Copyedi- tor/Writer for The Lutheran Witness and The Reporter

Congregation service

Years
  • Church Coun. Secy3
  • Altar Guild16
  • Const. and Bylaw Com
  • Running Substitute Organist Service
  • Mem18

Other service

Years
  • Rural Gospel Initiative3
  • Business Mgr. /Proofreader for LOGIA
  • Young Woman Rep. Nat'l Conv
  • Exec. Editor/Creative Dir. for Around the Word
  • Writer/ Editor for Various Publication
  • Liaison Rural Gospel Initiative and Lutheran Family Service1

About this position

Board for National Mission. 5 seats up for election. Authorized by 2023 Handbook, pp. 23, 103–4, 123, 142–44..

Conditions for election →

Other slates for Board for National Mission

Source: Biographical Synopses and Statements of Nominees, 69th Regular Synod Convention (Phoenix, Ariz., July 18–23, 2026), published by the Office of the Secretary. Bios key →