Our Staff

Rev. Lorna Halaas - Bishop

• Preach, teach, and administer the sacraments
• Provide leadership and pastoral care
• Ordain rostered leaders
• Synod Council
• Lead and strengthen the mission and unity of the synod
• Represent the Western Iowa Synod in regional, Churchwide and ecumenical gatherings

Rev. Judith Johnson - Associate to the Bishop for Call and Care

• Pastoral Care
• Support for rostered ministers
• Assist in conflict resolution
• Call Process

Kay Broich - Office & Financial Administrator

• Maintain payroll and general synod bookkeeping
• Property/Office management
• Oversee and assist congregations with Portico benefits
• Oversee coordination of Synod Assembly

Julie Cook - Administrative Assistant

• Assist congregations with questions and concerns
• Oversee organization and registration of synod events
• Serve as the office receptionist
• Support Synod Council
• Support candidacy
• Maintain roster

Deacon Eric Haitz - Director for Evangelical Mission

• Communication
• Website
• Preach
• Other duties as assigned

Rev. Chip Borgstadt 

• Candidacy
• Waterlife Journal
• BBQ fundraiser
• Other duties as assigned

Josh Kerney - Interim Director of  Gift Planning, ELCA Foundation

• Ongoing and planned estate gifts
  • Individuals in support of synods, congregations, churchwide ministries, ELCA related organizations
• Assist with Stewardship, Endowments, and Planned Giving needs