Dave Kumm, Concordia's chief financial officer and Dr. Larry Oetting, leader of Word of Life Lutheran Church, signed a lease enabling the new congregation to worship and occupy office space in Concordia's new site in the Fallbrook neighborhood of northwest Lincoln.
"We appreciate Concordia's desire and flexibility to partner with us in establishing a new church," said Oetting. "We felt that Fallbrook would be an ideal neighborhood to be a part of with the growth of the area, new schools and new businesses. It is a very welcoming environment."
Oetting says the goal of the church is to meet people where they are and encourage their searching and discovery of faith by being part of the community, offering a relaxed worship setting and welcoming those from all backgrounds. The first service in the new space will be on Sunday, Sept. 28, and this will be the first new LCMS church established in Lincoln in 20 years.
"Our hope is that Word of Life complements the other churches in Lincoln and that we will all work together to spread Christ's message," said Oetting.
"Concordia is excited to partner with Word of Life as well," said Rev. Dr. Brian L. Friedrich, president of Concordia. "This is an extension of our own mission to educate all levels of students in a Christ-centered environment for service around the world; it is a wonderful opportunity to support further education and worship built around Christ and his message."
The Fallbrook neighborhood is a planned community developed by NEBCO, a third-generation, family-owned business. The focus on creating a community fit right into Oetting's plans.
"We want to be active in the neighborhood. We want to explore faith and Christ with people, offer opportunities for spiritual growth and serve the community," said Oetting.
The first big event for the congregation will be a Community Invitation Night entitled "Playing to Win" and featuring Jerry Tagge. The Nebraska football All-American will share his journey of faith. The presentation and open house are Sunday, Aug. 17, 6:30 p.m.
See also: Word of Life website