The Serving Boldly Award, created by the Virginia Synod (ELCA) Council in October 2020, is given to lay leaders who embody and demonstrate a commitment to the gospel of Jesus Christ in their congregation and/or community. Nominations were received from Virginia Synod congregations around Virginia and the Synod is pleased to recognize the first four recipients of the award: Sandra Hagman (Luther Memorial, Blacksburg), Elizabeth Keefer (Grace, Chesapeake), Garrett Lautenschlager (College, Salem), and Paul Quel (Christ, Richmond).
Sandra Hagman, a member at Luther Memorial in Blacksburg, works with the Blacksburg Interfaith Food Pantry – a joint ministry of churches in the Blacksburg / McCoy area of Montgomery County. Sandy’s leadership with the Food Pantry has transformed Luther Memorial’s outreach efforts from occasional participation to an ongoing partnership. In addition to her work with the food pantry, Sandy volunteers for the Lifelong Learning Institute at Virginia Tech, a member-driven, volunteer organization that draws on the wealth of academic and community resources to provide intellectual, cultural, and social experiences for curious adults 50 and older.
Elizabeth Keefer, a member at Grace Lutheran in Chesapeake, has served as a leader for over 50 years in just about every area of congregational life including the areas of Fellowship, Worship & Music, Christian Education, and Service. For over a half century, Betty has had a tremendous impact on congregational ministry and has served as an example of what it means to be a faithful and bold servant and as an example of leadership and strength to other women.
Garrett Lautenschlager, a member of College Lutheran in Salem, leads by example and encourages other to give graciously and purposefully. Garry frequently invokes Martin Luther’s verse, “God does not need your good works, but your neighbor does.” As a life-long Virginia Lutheran, Garry Lautenschlager has spent over 40 years putting his Faith into Action. Garry has extensive community and church involvement, including serving as a professional administrator and volunteer manager for many non-profit, church and social service agencies. Garry serves as secretary of Salem Area Ecumenical Ministries, and he has been instrumental in the establishment of student-led food pantries within local public schools.
Paul Quel, a member of Christ Lutheran in Richmond, truly “serves boldly” at Christ Lutheran and in the surrounding community. He conveys a genuine sense of humility. What lies deep within Paul is a man who is kind, thoughtful, and attentive to the needs of others. Paul gives of himself to the church, whether he is serving as treasurer or organizing Thanksgiving meals, or the Angel Tree gifts at Christmas. The Lakeside community surrounding Christ Church benefits from his attention to those in need and making things happen on their behalf. Paul truly personifies the sentiment of “good and faithful servant.” Paul devotes his time to serving people of all backgrounds, faiths, and circumstances.
Within each of these congregations and beyond the walls of the church, these leaders daily demonstrate the love and caring of Jesus Christ by their words and deeds by serving in feeding ministries, leading community building events, supporting students in local schools, and creating opportunities for learning and personal growth. We give thanks for the faithfulness and dedication of these lay leaders who are Serving Boldly in their congregation and community.
