The Church Father Augustine mused that resurrection is harder than birth, though both are miracles. There is truth in that. There are many potential complications for churches that desire a true turnaround. This session will pair insights from critical leaders in the turnaround of Saint Mark: a pastor, a church president, and another key council member. They will share their hope for other potential turnaround churches, along with a roadmap, empowering churches to take meaningful steps toward a true resurrection in their church life.

Pastor Jonathan Bourman moved from church planting in Aiken, SC, to church revitalization in Mankato, MN, growing through both. He is finishing doctoral studies at Concordia Seminary in St. Louis, hosts The Notable Podcast, and pastors a gifted, driven, and deeply relational church, Saint Mark.

Bill Freitag is a longtime member of Saint Mark and served on the church council through the time of revitalization. He is a gifted manager and leader, having served through a strong growth phase of a company called Beck’s out of Indianapolis. He is known for his grit, can-do attitude, and insightful, spiritual comments.

Galen Holzhueter is a lifelong member of Saint Mark and served as church president through the time of revitalization. He works as an office manager and has a master’s degree in Educational Leadership. He also serves as a member of the Minnesota District Mission Board.