Nebraska Synod ELCA

by Debbra Troudt

The Love of God, the Grace of Christ, and the Presence of the Holy Spirit are definitely blessings of each member of Salem Lutheran Church, rural Superior.  However, in 2010 it became evident that Salem could not continue as a viable congregation due to financial constraints, population decline, and aging active membership. Salem was not the only congregation in the area with those problems!

Invitations were sent to area churches to meet and explore the possibilities of a shared ministry. Several representatives from a shared ministry in Wakeeney, Kansas, came to present their experience of six congregations within a 30-mile radius joining together, to be served by two ordained pastors, one PMA, and an intern. We were encouraged that it could be done.

Perhaps the best advice they gave was ‘this process cannot be hurried, as it will take a few years and much communication among the intentional congregations, and with the denominational or synod leadership to bring together several congregations and to work through the necessary decisions and compromises.’  The voice of experience was right once again!

Several meetings and much discussion later there were six congregations which were interested in forming a multi-point parish: three Lutheran, two United Church of Christ, and one Presbyterian. As talks continued three of those chose to find other solutions, but three remained very intent on solving the differences and coming together in worship and love, not as Lutherans, or UCC or Presbyterians, but as Christians who respect the differences of each other, but choose to focus on our similarities. We were guided by God, Synod, UCC and Presbytery leadership, experienced pastors and faith!

After six years of meetings, prayers, and constant faith, Heartland Shared Ministries became a reality! The intentional and steadfast work of those three congregations had paid off! Were there bumps in the road? Of course!! Do we have all the answers? No, but we know Who does!! Are there continual compromises? Yes! Was it worth it? Oh, my, yes!! Our doors are still open, the financial picture in all three has brightened considerably so that we can better serve,  and we have faith and intent to face each challenge holding fast to His hand!

The Church of the Plains (Edgar, NE), United Church of Christ (Clay Center, NE) and Salem ELCA Lutheran (rural Superior, NE) are within a 16 mile radius of each other, all three have move-in ready parsonages, and wonderful people who love the small town life of their individual communities but come together to love and serve our Lord!

The binding Heartland Shared Ministries agreement was approved by congregational votes and the ministry is guided by representatives from all three churches.

Our individual worship services might include our denominational traditions, or they could be a combination of the three. Joint services are held for special times of the year such as Lent, and normally on any fifth Sunday of the month.  We have been pastored by amazing people!

We have many blessings – the dedication of church leadership, the joy of coming together from three communities and three different denominations, and becoming friends as we worship and serve our Lord.

Our original intention has been fulfilled as we know and serve our Lord and aspire to be servants of God to all people by living our faith in Jesus Christ – together!

Debbra Troudt is a member at Salem Lutheran in Superior, a part of Heartland Shared Ministries.