2025 Pastors Conference Recap – “Rooted in the Word”

What a great couple of days together! This year’s Pastors Conference brought ministry leaders from all across the district for a time to reconnect, recharge, and be Rooted in the Word. We laughed, worshiped, learned, and shared stories of God at work in our congregations. Dr. Matthew Borrasso—pastor, professor, and theologian—challenged us with deep insights into God’s grace and the life of the church today. Sarah Salzberg, an energetic Old Testament teacher and speaker, helped us see God’s story with fresh eyes and practical wisdom. There was also a time for Pastors' Wives to gather and honoring those who celebrated ordination anniversaries.

Between sessions, conversations flowed easily over coffee and meals, and the fellowship reminded us we’re never in ministry alone. Everyone left encouraged, refreshed, and ready to keep walking together in God’s mission.

The CNH Servus Christi Award (established in 2023 by CNH District President Mike Lange) is given each year to at least one deserving candidate who is affirmed by his peers and the president of the CNH District as an exemplary model of servant leadership. The recipients for 2025 were Rev. Jim Beyer (St. Mark, Santa Rosa) and post-humously to Pastor Ted Mueller (St. Luke, Santa Rosa), who was called to glory in 2022.

Qualifications for the award The candidate is an emeritus pastor who exemplifies Christian servanthood in three areas:

• Faithful and sacrificial service as a pastoral leader and shepherd in his congregation(s).

• Steadfast and loving attention to his family and, by extension, to his community in which he resides (has resided).

• Intentional and sacrificial service to the greater LCMS and/or Christian church-atlarge.