At its spring meeting, the WELS Board for Home Missions approved three new mission starts, continuing its work of bringing the gospel to growing communities across the United States while navigating ongoing financial and manpower challenges:
Bastrop, Texas
Located about 25 miles east of Austin, Bastrop is experiencing rapid growth fueled by new residential development and expanding economic activity. Major employers now headquartered in Bastrop, including X and Starlink, have drawn new families to the area. As Bastrop continues to expand, many residents lack church connections, and a confessional Lutheran presence remains limited. Members of Holy Word in Austin, Texas, have formed a committed core group that has been meeting regularly, engaging the community through service and outreach, and building relationships with residents.
Greeneville, Tenn.
Greeneville, Tenn., is a growing community positioned between the Johnson City/Kingsport/Bristol metro area and Knoxville. While the area reflects strong Bible Belt culture and openness to conversations about faith, currently no confessional Lutheran church serves the community. A committed core group, supported by nearby WELS congregations in Johnson City and Morristown, has been meeting regularly and actively engaging with the community.
North Marana, Ariz.
North Marana is one of the fastest growing areas in the Tucson metro area, now home to more than 60,000 residents. A new mission effort—known locally as Mission Marana—is already active in the community, with a committed core group that gathers for Bible study and regularly serves at local events across North Marana.
In addition to the new mission starts, the Board approved three Home Missions enhancement grants. Congregations receiving enhancements include Good Shepherd in Holmen, Wis.; Mount Olive in St. Paul, Minn.; and Resurrection in Chesapeake, Va.
Balancing gratitude, needs, and stewardship
The approval of three new mission starts is cause for thanksgiving. It also reflects current realities. In WELS today there are 150+ pastoral vacancies. Additionally, Congregation Mission Offerings (CMO) and special gifts to Home Missions have not kept pace with the rising costs of establishing and supporting new missions.
“If these are our current realities as we continue with the 100 Missions in 10 Years initiative,” says Rev. Mark Gabb, WELS Home Missions administrator, “Then we respond accordingly. Yes, we trust that God can do immeasurably more than we ask or imagine. But we’re also told not to put the Lord to the test.”
Gabb goes on to say, “It isn’t about a lack of opportunities, but stewarding the finite resources we do have. This is nothing new. God’s people have been wrestling with money and manpower challenges for generations. As we look at new mission opportunities along with the current home missions we continue to support, our aim will be to wisely steward God’s gifts.”
Despite these challenges, Home Missions leaders remain encouraged by what God is already doing through committed core groups and supportive congregations.
“We thank you for your continued prayers, generosity, and encouragement,” says Gabb. “Our home mission congregations continue to reach people with the gospel that is transforming hearts and lives that will last into eternity. What a privilege and joy it is to be a part of that!”
To learn more about these new mission starts and enhancements, visit wels100in10.net.
