What is Membership?

Membership is a covenant that enables us to partner together in more significant ways.

The word covenant means in it together.  In a covenant, two parties enter into an agreement that establishes and defines the nature of the relationship.

God is a covenant maker and keeper.  Covenants are to His people as roots are to trees.  Entering into a covenant with a specific group of believers promotes accountability, fosters life-giving relationships, and encourages personal investment.

In addition to these inherent benefits of covenant relationships, becoming a member equips you with a both a voice and a vote when it comes to decisions that affect our church family.

Already a Member?

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Meet the Candidates

Candidates For Nominating Committee:

Prior to congregational vote, these elected representatives engage in a prayerful and careful candidate selection process.  Names of candidates are published in advance so members can familiarize themselves with the candidates and pass along concerns to the Nominating Committee prior to congregational vote.

Beth Stadler

Beth and her husband Rob have two kids: Noelle, a refugee advocate, and Andrew, a La Crosse fireman and husband to Jenna. Beth is a grateful follower of Jesus, a professor of electrical and computer engineering and an associate dean in the College of Science and Engineering at the University of Minnesota. From marriage to MOPS, from youth to Fun After 50, she finds joy in being part of a church community.

Justin Alstad, Nominating Committee

Justin lives in Blaine and works for a local catering company that serves schools around the Twin Cities. He started attending ECC in 2019, became more involved in 2021, and then became a member in 2022. He currently serves on the production team for the Studio Church service, helps with ECC Kids on Sunday mornings, plays on the ECC softball team, has been a leader on several ECC middle school retreats, and occasionally jumps in with the Welcome Team. Justin’s hobbies include volleyball, bowling, card games, and spending time with family and friends.

Candidate for Pastoral Relations Committee (PRC)

The PRC exists to ensure that our congregation cares for the Senior Pastor the way we want our Senior Pastor to care for the congregation.  The PRC prays for the Senior Pastor and his/her family, mediates conflict when appropriate, and ensures that the Senior Pastor is able to focus on his/her unique responsibilities and most essential tasks.

Donna

Donna started attending Emmanuel in the fall of 2016. ECC’s commitment to the Word and emphasis on seeking to live that out in our everyday lives are values that she really appreciates. With a background working in church and non-profit ministry, she currently serves as a volunteer leader in the ECC TEEN Ministry and has also

previously served on the Nominating Committee.  She is passionate about serving and helping teens and young adults grow and develop in their faith.

Candidates For Elder Board

Our Elder Board is a representative Board with real authority.  The Elders may be called upon to administrate, lead, and/or mediate conflict as specified in our constitution.  However, their primary purpose is to represent the congregation as they provide candid feedback in confidential matters, weigh in on significant decisions, and hold the Senior Pastor accountable to God-honoring leadership.

Jeff House

Jeff and Angie House have been married 28 years, live in New Brighton, and have 4 teenagers. Jeff has worked in IT for the State of Minnesota for 29 years and has volunteered as AV tech for churches for 30 years (almost 10 of those for ECC), many of which involved youth activities. He has also been a youth group leader for the last 8 years and served on several committees at his previous church. His family likes to be hospitable and take care of the people God brings their way. Jeff also enjoys travel and Minecraft.

Steve Kruger

Steve and his wife, Mary, live in Shoreview and have two adult children and two grandchildren. Steve is a Partner at the law firm of Best & Flanagan, where he practices business, corporate, tax and nonprofit law, and has served in several leadership positions. He is Chair of the Minnesota Board of Fellowship of Christian Athletes and serves on the Board of Search Institute. Steve enjoys hiking, biking, traveling, playing games, and attending sporting events. He served on the ECC Pastoral Relations Committee from 2019-2023.