The Mid-South District - LCMS

Representing the Mid-South District atthe 2026 LCMS Convention in Phoenix

The 69th Regular Convention of the Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod took place July 18-23 in Phoenix, AZ. For the over 1,300 delegates and other representatives who attended, the packed week was not only about elections and adopting key resolutions, but also sharing fellowship and worship with fellow Lutherans. The convention theme, “Christ Is Risen Indeed” (from 1 Corinthians 15:20-22), was reflected throughout the gathering, especially in hymns and essays.

The Mid-South District is most grateful to the delegates and other representatives from our region who traveled to Phoenix to represent our District at the 69th Regular Convention of the LCMS. Those attending on behalf of the Mid-South District included 20 voting delegates, 1 advisory delegate and 2 advisory representatives. Mid-South District President, Rev. Dr. Roger Paavola, chaired the Floor Committee on Finance (Vice Chair, Rev. James Rockey, Florida-Georgia District President), with Angela Fowler, the District’s Finance Executive, serving as Secretary. One of ten Floor Committees at the 2026 Convention, the Finance Committee presented several resolutions that were quickly adopted by the delegation.

For details on all resolutions presented at the 2026 LCMS convention—along with election results, essays presented, and recordings of each day’s proceedings—visit https://www.lcms.org/convention/national.

LCMS representatives for Mid-South District
The 2026 LCMS Convention in Phoenix wasn’t all work! Delegates and representatives from the Mid-South District had a moment to share dinner and fellowship—and admire a beautiful sunset! “Thank You” to all who attended on behalf of the Mid-South District! Our District’s group included (L to R standing) Rev. Adam Woldt, Kevin Herweck (Concordia Plans CEO, District dinner guest), Jack Ficken, David Topp, Rev. JD Zischke, Thomas Bathe, Mikaela Zischke, Rev. Eric Phillips, Amy Holmes, Rev. Jonathan Holmes, Rev. Dr. Roger Paavola, Rev. Addison Pope, Angela Fowler, Rev. Larry Peters, Missy Washburn, Scott Stuewe, Heather Cox, Rev. Patrick Cox, Charles Holcomb, Levi Nunnick, Claudia Bauch, Bob Morris, Rev. Gregory Bauch, Amanda Bauch, Gideon Bauch, Craig Stroh, Leona Stobaugh, Susie Allen, Bob Allen, Gary Thomas, (L to R kneeling front) Rev. Emil Woerner, Rev. Sean Smith, (L to R standing rear) Rev. Gerald Heinecke, Richard Jackson, and (not pictured) Rev. Sawyer Meyers.