October 2024
Approximately 375 educators, pastors, and others gathered at Concordia University Chicago on Friday, October 18, 2024, for worship, learning, and fellowship. The theme for this year’s Educator Conference was “Our God is
Faithful.”
The day opened with worship led by LCMS Northern Illinois District President Rev. Dr. Allan R. Buss. The connection to education and educators was woven throughout the service: liturgists who assisted were NID pastors who began their ministry as Lutheran teachers, two teachers in our NID schools served as readers, and a musical ensemble had been assembled, incorporating talented educators from around the District. Additionally, a group of pastors gathered to form a small choir for the service.
Following opening worship, several awards were presented:
- Early Childhood Teacher of the Year – Karla Menz, Second Grade Teacher, St. Paul, Mt. Prospect
- Timothy Award Teacher of the Year – Emily McCullagh, First Grade Teacher, Immanuel, Batavia
- Barnabas Award – Penny Janacek, Church Secretary, Immanuel, Batavia
- Mustard Seed Award (Volunteer) of the Year – Gina Gilbert, St. Peter, Schaumburg
- School Administrator of the Year – Tom Kalal, Principal, St. John’s, Lombard
Attendees then had opportunity during three time periods to choose breakout sessions presented by leaders and teachers from around the NID and throughout the LCMS. There were numerous topics to choose from, including: Why Students Struggle with Reading and How to Help Them, Building a Healthy and Loving Culture in Your Church and School, Art and Artists in Early Education, Team Ministry Mindset – Church and School Edition, Project-Based Learning, and Trauma in the Classroom, among many others.
Throughout the course of the day, attendees were also able to interact with a wonderful group of
ministry partners in the Market Place vendor area.
The day’s events concluded with an inspirational keynote presentation by Wayne Messmer. Mr. Messmer is an accomplished vocalist, public speaker, and co-owner of a financial service company. He is also known as “Chicago’s Original Voice of the National Anthem,” having performed The Star-Spangled Banner more than 5,000 times. The story of his healing and comeback from being a victim of a random act of violence is recounted in his book, The Voice of a Champion. His keynote address was entitled, “The Spirit of a Champion.”
Thank you to all those who played a part in planning this day! The Northern Illinois District values the importance of Lutheran school education and works diligently to offer opportunities for fellowship and learning to NID educators throughout the District. Next year, NID educators will participate in the national Lutheran Educators Association (LEA) Convocation.
WELLNESS: Promoting and encouraging health and vitality in congregations, schools, ministries, professional workers, and lay-leaders.