Process

The process for calling a new pastor takes time and discernment and we will be working closely with the Minneapolis Area Synod throughout the entire process. While we are fortunate to have a relatively large window of time for the congregation to work through the process of transition, there are many steps to be completed. The Executive Committee, along with the full Council, are working to identify the steps in the process and potential timing, knowing that we need to ensure that the congregation’s voice is heard and that we take the time to consider what is important for Immanuel and the broader community that we serve. The following are actions currently being taken:

• The initial phases of this process are designed develop a picture of who Immanuel is, the direction Immanuel wishes to go in the future, and the skills desired for our next Senior Pastor.
• The Immanuel Executive Committee held 2 listening sessions in September.  As we spend time working to deeply listen to congregation members and discern what Immanuel needs, this is an important step.
• A survey was conducted in Novemer/December 2024 to gather input.
• After all listening feedback is completed the results will be shared with the congregation.
• The listening sessions will be used to create a Ministry Site Profile. This document is a required first step in the call process and will be shared with the ELCA Minneapolis Area Synod once completed.  You can review a copy of the Ministry Site Profile completed in 2022 as a part of the Associate Pastor call process.
• Pastor John Hulden, Assistant to the Bishop of the Minneapolis Area Synod, met with the Church Council in October to review the process and guide us through completion of the Ministry Site Profile.

Summary of work:

November - December 2025

• The Church Council voted to approve the recommendation of the Call Committee to extend a call to Pastor Daniel Nelson as Senior Pastor.
• A congregational meeting and vote was held Sunday, December 7.  The congregation voted to extend the call to Pastor Nelson.
• Pastor Nelson submitted his acceptance letter and the congregation was notified on December 9.

Pastor Daniel A. Nelson Rostered Minister Profile

September 2025 – October 2025

• The Call Committee interviewed Pastor Dan Nelson throughout October and submitted a recommendation to the Council to approve Pastor Dan as the senior Pastor. 
• The Call Committee completed two interviews and is preparing to submit a recommendation to the Church Council.

June 2025 – July2025

• Pastor Steven Olson was appointed as Interim Pastor, starting July 7.
• The Call Committee was officially formed and began preparations to interview Pastor Dan Nelson in September.

April 2025 -  May2025

• The Church Council approved hiring an interim pastor and forming a Call Committee.
• Interviews for the interim position began, with Pastor Paul’s retirement celebration planned for June.
• Pastor Dan Nelson expressed interest in the Senior Pastor role. Per Minneapolis Synod guidelines, internal candidates must be considered first.
• Call Committee formation was underway, with selection scheduled to begin after June 15.

January 2025 – March 2025

• The Transition Team completed the congregational input phase and developed the Ministry Site Profile (MSP), which was approved by the Church Council in February.
• Congregational surveys identified top priorities for the new Senior Pastor and staff/lay leadership.
• Planning began for the next steps in the transition process.

September 2024 –December 2024

• Utilized multiple listening methods to understand our congregation’s hopes, priorities, and concerns/fears, including:
  • Meetings with large and small groups
  • Surveys and discussions with Confirmation students and parents of children in our programs
  • Online input tool
  • Flipcharts in narthex and by Sunday School rooms
• Listening session with staff
• Meeting with Eden Prairie’s mayor and police and fire chiefs to understand community needs
• Temple talks to communicate status and confirm theme’s from listening methods
• Incorporated information gained into the draft Ministry Site Profile