This month, we focused on several key items:

• Voted on our Revised Bylaws and Membership Policy
• Completed first readings of Personnel Policy,  Job Roles and Responsibilities Matrix
• Celebrated the launching of our Membership classes
• Conducted our ‘25-’26 Board Goal Brainstorming session

Voted Approval and First Reading

Two policies were presented to the board for review and approval. The Revised Bylaws as well as the Membership Policy were both unanimously approved. The bylaws, which serve as internal guiding documents, reflect the church’s vision, mission, governance, and operational practices. They provide clarity for both leadership and members regarding roles, responsibilities, and expectations. Minor revisions were made to improve consistency and coherence. Notable updates include the addition of a process for board member removal by a two-thirds board vote and a clear procedure for filling resulting vacancies. It was also added that any future changes to the bylaws will be promptly communicated  to all church members. The Membership Policy— developed for recent membership classes—was formally approved. Additionally, first readings were conducted for two other documents: the Personnel Policy and the Job Roles and Responsibilities Matrix. These are currently under review, and steps have been outlined to gather feedback before final approval.

Membership Review

Since June, our staff has led three meaningful and well-attended membership classes. We’re excited to share that over 45 people have shown interest and participated so far! At Tahoe Church, membership isn’t about exclusivity or benefits—it’s about belonging. It represents a deeper connection and commitment to walk together in faith, care, and accountability—much like a spiritual family. This vision is inspired by Acts 2:42–47, where the early church devoted themselves to teaching, fellowship, shared meals, resources, and prayer. Anyone who has taken a membership class will be personally contacted by Pastor Terrence. After a brief pastoral affirmation, each individual will be invited to sign a membership covenant. These covenants will be available at the Hub, where a board member or volunteer will be on hand to answer any questions. All current members will be grandfathered in as members of Tahoe Church. However, we strongly encourage everyone—whether new or longtime attendees—to participate in a membership class to better understand what membership truly means and where God is leading Tahoe Church. For those who are unable to attend in person, online classes are in development and in person will be offered quarterly. If you were interested in a membership class but couldn’t make it, please reach out to our team at info@tahoe.church—we’d love to connect with you!  Also check out membership on our website.

Board ‘25-’26  Goals; Brainstorm Session

Lastly, the Board dedicated 30 minutes of the meeting to a focused brainstorming session aimed at identifying 3–5 key goals for the upcoming year. As a board, our role is to represent Tahoe Church faithfully, while also supporting and overseeing the church staff and their decisions. We are committed to understanding the church’s evolving needs, maintaining strong relationships, and staying in tune with the heartbeat of our church body. To help shape our direction, we began by reflecting on how far our church has come over the past year. Each board and staff member was invited to identify five potential areas for growth. These ideas were then shared and discussed to highlight common themes and determine priorities. While many important areas were raised, three key focuses emerged:

• Addressing and advancing the Brave Campaign
• Improving volunteer support and care team development
• Creating a facilities master plan and exploring ways to increase property revenue through events
   

At our next meeting, we’ll take the next step by breaking these priorities into specific, attainable goals and forming teams to work on each initiative throughout the coming year. We’re energized by the direction God is leading us— there’s exciting work ahead!If you’re interested in helping with any of these initiatives, we’d love to hear from you. Contact us by the email below.

In Gratitude,
Tahoe Church Board
John Halverson, David Conner, Kappie Keates, Bruce Dennie, Terrence Sutton, Lindsay Warren and Pat Post

Email questions to:  board@tahoe.church

This month, we focused on several key items:

• Staffing updates
• Goal planning
• Membership process.
   

Reminder: Next Family Meeting Aug, 3, 11:30am

Staffing Updates

We send our prayers and best wishes to the Castle family as they relocate to Minnesota, where Toby will serve as a private school principal. We’re grateful for Toby’s leadership in launching and overseeing community groups, supporting teaching, communications, and volunteer coordination. His impact has been significant and lasting.

We’re pleased to announce the following staffing developments:

• Karina Cramm has been officially hired as our full-time Administrative Coordinator and Tahoe Kids Director. She began in July and led a successful Kids Camp.
• Melissa Jewel has joined the team as a contracted accountant.
• We’re excited to have 4–5 ministry residents serving with us this year to support various church activities.

Goal Planning

The Board continues to develop strategic goals to guide our work in the 2025–2026 ministry year. After reviewing input from staff and assessing the church’s needs, four priorities have been identified:

• Strengthening volunteer support and care teams
• Increasing property revenue
• Advancing the membership process
• Continuing governance development

Teams composed of board members, staff, and volunteers are being formed to move these goals forward. If you’re interested in participating, please email board@tahoe.church.

Membership Process

Membership remains a key focus this year. Those who have completed a membership class will be contacted by Pastor Terrence for a brief conversation. Following this, individuals will be invited to sign a Membership Covenant, available at the Hub each Sunday. A board member or volunteer will be available to answer any questions. All current members are considered active under our updated membership structure. However, we encourage everyone—whether new or long-time attendees—to attend a membership class to better understand the heart and mission of Tahoe Church. An online class is also in development, with a planned launch in August. For more information, please visit the Membership section on our website.

In Gratitude,
Tahoe Church Board
John Halverson, David Conner, Kappie Keates, Bruce Dennie, Terrence Sutton, Lindsay Warren and Pat Post

Email questions to:  board@tahoe.church

This month, we focused on several key areas, with three primary updates we’d like to share with you:

Solar Update

Ryan Aldrich, our Director of Operations, and Mark Swanson, a Tahoe Church member with extensive experience in the solar industry, presented a compelling case for moving forward with a solar installation at the church. Their overview highlighted both the financial incentives and the strategic timing of this investment.

Several factors make this an ideal moment to act:

- An upcoming  15% increase in Liberty Utilities’ electricity rates
- A 30% federal tax credit for nonprofits, expiring in July 2026
- Shifting policies regarding how electricity is stored and credited

Based on this analysis, both the Board and staff unanimously agree that now is the right time to pursue this initiative. Fortunately, we are able to fund the project through the Property Maintenance Restricted Fund, which is supported by income from event rentals and has been designated for facility improvements.

Once installed, the solar system is expected to generate approximately $10,690 in annual savings, which will be redirected to support ministry efforts.

The Board views this project as an act of faithful stewardship—caring for both creation and the financial resources entrusted to us. While there is still work ahead, we believe that moving forward with this project positions Tahoe Church for long-term sustainability and impact. For more details, you are welcome to communicate with Ryan Aldrich.

Financial Update through July

This year, we set a bold and prayerful budget goal of $675,000, reflecting our belief in the expanding mission and ministry of our church. Through July, we remain largely on track—however, we are currently $15,300 below where we had hoped to be at this point in the year.

We’re also glad to share that the recent staff additions—covering areas like kids ministry, administration, accounting, prayer, technology, and communications—are all being supported within our current budget. These roles are helping the church run smoothly and serve our community more effectively.

We want to express deep gratitude to everyone who gives and serves at Tahoe Church. Your faithful generosity makes Tahoe Church  ministry possible. If you haven't yet established a rhythm of regular giving, we invite you to prayerfully consider doing so.  Giving is both a spiritual discipline and a tangible way to partner in what God is doing. Every gift—large or small—helps us carry out our mission to share the love and message of Jesus to our community.

Family meeting 

On August 3rd, we held our Summer Family Meeting. Thank you to everyone who took the time to attend—it was a valuable opportunity to share ministry and financial updates, as well as to engage in meaningful conversation around important topics.

Following the meeting, the Board spent time reflecting on specific questions raised by members, particularly around The Brave Campaign and the importance of accountability within church and leadership. These are significant matters, and we want to assure you that they continue to be carefully considered and discussed.

Your input is essential to the way we operate as a church. Tahoe Church is built on a model of shared leadership between the staff, board, and congregation—and your voice plays a vital role in that balance. We are deeply grateful for your engagement, and it is our ongoing privilege to serve and represent you as members of the Board.

In Gratitude,
Tahoe Church Board
John Halverson, David Conner, Kappie Keates, Bruce Dennie, Terrence Sutton, Lindsay Warren and Pat Post

Email questions to:  board@tahoe.church

Financial Update through August

This year, we set a bold and prayerful budget goal of $675,000, reflecting our belief in the expanding mission of Tahoe Church. As of the end of August, we are largely on track, though we’re currently $10,441.28 below expected income for the year to date. We trust that nothing is impossible for God and thank you for your continued financial support.

At the meeting, Melissa Jewell, our contracted accountant, provided a helpful overview of church spending. Every transaction is carefully coded, reconciled, and reviewed, ensuring clear and traceable financial records.

This past year included some unique, one-time expenses from our reserves—such as early mortgage payoff, denominational withdrawal agreement, and unplanned legal fees. While these were not part of the regular budget, they have helped reduce our ongoing monthly expenses, freeing up more resources for future ministry.

The good news: our overall spending remains under budget. This strong position allows us to begin planning wisely for next year’s budget. With improved financial organization, we’re better equipped to assess and project future needs.

Please continue to pray over this process—and if you feel led, consider partnering by giving financially to support what God is doing through Tahoe Church.

PIT Residents & Website

The Tahoe Resident Leadership Program brings young leaders from around the country to our church campus to grow in their faith and develop ministry skills. Our Pastor in Training (PIT) program just began a new 11-month term with four gifted women.

The TRLP is growing each year with more residents and pastors in training, which, while exciting, has also increased the program's operational costs. The church also supports our pastors in training with a modest monthly living reimbursement for the 30 hours of ministry they perform, and we would like to continue to bless our aspiring leaders with this support. However, funding for the TRLP needs to diversify, so if you have creative ideas or are interested in supporting the TRLP, please reach out to one of the Board or the TRLP director, Ryan Aldrich (ryan@tahoe.church).

We would like to recognize Jordan Marsland for his outstanding work in redesigning the Church website! If you visit tahoe.church/our-team you will find a very informative listing of the current staff, PIT residents and their roles.

Sunday Service Plans

Thank you to everyone who responded to the recent survey—it was incredibly helpful as we plan for the future. The majority of our church family expressed a preference for a 10am service time. With that in mind, the staff is exploring ways to maximize our building’s capacity to welcome more people during that time.

This is a great challenge to have, and we’re excited to see continued growth in this new season. As our foundation reminds us, “We always make room.” We’re committed to creating a warm, welcoming space where both guests and long-time attenders can encounter Jesus each Sunday.  Thank you everyone for being a part of this vision.

In Gratitude,
Tahoe Church Board
John Halverson, David Conner, Kappie Keates, Bruce Dennie, Terrence Sutton, Lindsay Warren and Pat Post

Email questions to:  board@tahoe.church

October 2025 Board Summary

As part of our commitment to transparency and consistent communication, the Board is pleased to share highlights from our October meeting. This month, we focused on several key areas, with three primary updates we’d like to share with you:

• Financial update
• Pathway to pastor
• Membership plans

Financial Update 

As of the end of September, we are largely on track financially, though we are currently $6,000 below our expected income for the year to date. This year’s budget of $675,000 was a bold step of faith, and we’re grateful to see how God has continued to provide through the generosity of our church family.

As we enter the final months of the year, we encourage everyone to finish strong to help us meet this goal by the end of December. Giving is an act of worship—a grateful response to God’s provision—and it reflects a heart sensitive to His leading and committed to joining His work in Tahoe and beyond.

We invite you to pray intentionally over this process. Ask God how He might guide your financial support of Tahoe Church as we continue to follow His direction together.

Pathway to Pastor

The Staff and Board believe that now is the right time to develop a clear pathway to pastorship for Tahoe Church. One prime candidate who is both qualified and receptive to stepping into this pathway is Ryan Aldrich, our Director of Operations and TRLP leader.

Over the past six years, Ryan has faithfully grown in his role, often stepping into pastoral responsibilities with humility and excellence. He has led young pastors in their development through the TRLP program, regularly speaks on Sundays, and demonstrates the character, lifestyle, and willingness needed to grow into this role.

Importantly, adding a third pastor would not have major budget implications but would strengthen our staff team and help share the ministry workload more effectively. Ryan’s situation is unique, but looking ahead, this pathway would allow Tahoe Church to license future pastors who meet established standards of biblical study, ministry experience and excellence.

This is an exciting step for the future of our church as we continue to raise up and equip leaders to impact the world for God’s kingdom.

Membership and Family Meeting

Tahoe Church is excited to be soon rolling out a new online membership process designed to increase accessibility and engagement. Online videos are currently in development, with the goal of launching this winter.  In person classes may be offered too.

In addition, we are planning a Family Meeting in early December to share important updates on finances, ministry focus, and board recruitment for the coming year. This gathering will be a key moment for our church family to align around shared vision and look forward together to the year ahead. Be looking for this future announcement.

In Gratitude,
Tahoe Church Board
John Halverson, David Conner, Kappie Keates, Bruce Dennie, Terrence Sutton, Lindsay Warren and Pat Post

Email questions to:  board@tahoe.church

November 2025 Board Summary

As part of our commitment to transparency and consistent communication, the Board is pleased to share highlights from our November meeting. This month, we focused on several key areas, including conducting the Pastor Review, sharing a Thanksgiving reflection, and opening up nominations for new Board members.

We are pleased to share an important milestone for Tahoe Church—one that reflects our commitment to building a culture of accountability and transparency. For the first time in our church’s history, the board has completed a formal pastoral evaluation and review, as outlined in our Board Policies and Procedures. This establishes a healthy precedent and sets the foundation for conducting an annual pastoral review for the future. In addition, the board will now complete a yearly self-evaluation.

As we finish strong in 2025, we are nearing our yearly budget goal of $675,000. We are praying boldly and believing in God for a strong November and December to help us close the year well. Budget workshops are already underway as we prepare for the work God is leading Tahoe Church into next. As always, thank you for your generosity and for partnering with us.

God has been incredibly faithful, and as we approach Thanksgiving, we recognize the many ways He is moving in our church. This summer, we celebrated a record number of baptisms, launched a strong second year of community groups, and hosted powerful prayer and worship nights. Our prayer team continues to serve faithfully each Sunday, strengthening the prayer and care ministries of our church. From the installation of solar panels to offset rising electricity costs, to meeting an increased annual budget, to supporting the largest TRLP program to date—God is at work. We are grateful and humbled as we reflect on the countless ways He is moving in and through Tahoe Church.

Lastly, it is time to receive nominees for the next term of service on the Board of Directors. Any member may nominate an individual to serve. Please share your nomination with a current board member or email the board at Board@tahoe.church.

Board terms are two years in length, with the opportunity to serve a second term. We are especially looking for individuals who are involved and invested in the mission of Tahoe Church—people who have a heart for strengthening our systems and supporting the ongoing development of our church’s operations and organization.

The primary role of the Board is to support the Executive Staff Team (EST) and to provide guidance on the overall direction and financial stewardship of the church. We encourage you to prayerfully consider serving. It is a meaningful way to bless the church and to live out our foundational values: Be Brave and Take the Next Step.

In Gratitude,
Tahoe Church Board
John Halverson, David Conner, Kappie Keates, Bruce Dennie, Terrence Sutton, Lindsay Warren and Pat Post    

Email questions to:  board@tahoe.church

Board Vision - Dream Big and Do

2025: Defined by Freedom & Foundation 

Untethered

This year marked a season of fresh freedom as we finalized our complete withdrawal from the Nazarene denomination. With the last remaining legal matters resolved in 2025, we are now fully untethered—free to prayerfully and responsibly make decisions regarding Tahoe Church’s money, property, mission, and future growth without external constraints.

Foundation

Our transition into an independent church has allowed us to focus on establishing strong foundations—legal, organizational, and policies. This has been a season of gratitude for what God has done, while putting structures in place that will serve the church for years to come.

Board Priorities & Accomplishments

Church Health & Governance

• Board and Staff spent 216 hrs collectively in board meetings.
• Adopted updated Bylaws, Membership Policy, Mission Giving Policy, and Governance Policies.
• Oversaw Tahoe Church in becoming an independent 501(c)(3) nonprofit.
• As a board, we have engaged in the Unstuck Church Board Study (Tony Morgan) to strengthen board leadership and Church health.

Leadership & Accountability

• Conducted the first-ever Lead Pastor evaluation (November 2025).
• All board members completed first ever, annual board member self-assessments.

Financially

• Approved key financial decisions, including paying off the mortgage, meeting Nazarene denominational withdrawal obligations, securing the Hirshdale property, approving the solar project, hiring a Kids Director/administrative  and Adult Ministry position. These decisions strengthened long-term sustainability and increased capacity to support future church ministries.  The Board continues to prioritize the pursuit and hiring of a Youth Ministry position while thoughtfully balancing the financial impact of upcoming facility improvements.

Board Goals

• The board has formed volunteer teams which are committed to leadership development, and /or support of ministry processes by forming collaborative teams.  These teams focus on process improvement across the church. Each team meets in addition to board meetings, to invest in leadership, support the staff and develop sustainable structures in these areas:
• Membership
• Policy development
• Spiritual growth
• Volunteerism
• Increasing property use for revenue

Looking Ahead

This past year has been a season of new freedom, foundational growth, and gratitude for God’s graciousness. Through this season, we accomplished significant foundational work that positions the church well for its greater mission, bringing the love of Jesus to Tahoe and beyond. As we look ahead, the Board remains dedicated to supporting our staff, strengthening church health, and faithfully stewarding God’s gifts through Tahoe Church. We welcome your input and remain committed to serving the church with wisdom, care, and faithfulness in all our decisions.

Bruce Dennie, John Halverson, Pat Post, Lindsay Warren, David Conner, Terrence Sutton and Kappie Keates

March Board Summary 

As part of our commitment to transparency and consistent communication, the Board is pleased to share a few highlights from our March meeting.

Welcoming and Affirming Board Members
We began the meeting by reflecting on our shared posture of Going Deeper as a board. Members who have served for over a year shared unexpected blessings they’ve experienced through being on the board. It was a meaningful time that reinforced unity and gratitude for how God is working through the team.

We are grateful to welcome and install our newly affirmed board members: Cindy Nelson and Jake Wildberger for their first terms, and Bruce Dennie beginning his second term. John Halverson, Kappie Keates, and Lindsay Warren continue serving in their current terms. We are also thankful for Pat Post and David Conner, who recently completed their terms; exit interviews will be conducted as part of our transition process.

The Board affirmed the following leadership roles for the coming year:

Chair: Kappie Keates
Co-Chairs: Lindsay Warren and Jake Wildberger
Secretary: John Halverson
Treasurer: Bruce Dennie
Assistant Treasurer: Cindy Nelson
Lead Pastor & President of the Board: Terrence Sutton
 

This team of seven is committed to prayerfully discerning the direction of Tahoe Church and serving our community as we live out our mission: Jesus loves Tahoe, Tahoe needs Jesus.

Board Evaluations Completed

This month marked an important milestone. For the first time in Tahoe Church’s history, the board completed individual self-evaluations as outlined in our Board Policies and Procedures. This establishes a healthy precedent for annual evaluations moving forward and reflects our commitment to accountability and growth.

Each board member had a one on one discussion with Pastor Terrence, helping gather feedback, strengthen relationships, and collaborate. On average, board members reported contributing 4–10 hours per month, on board-related responsibilities.

Highlights identified by board members include developing our church membership process and celebrating the milestone of Tahoe Church becoming a legally independent church. These conversations also emphasized the importance of open communication, collaboration, and continued relational development among board members.

Accounting Transition Update
Beginning in January, we started transitioning to a new accounting firm, Finch, which specializes in serving churches and small businesses across the country. We are excited about the systems and processes they will help us implement to strengthen our accounting, payroll, and bookkeeping. The transition has required extra time and patience as we work together to get everything established, and we appreciate your understanding during this process. In the long run, this partnership will free up time and provide strong financial systems to support a healthy future of our church.

Thank you for the privilege of serving the Tahoe Church family. If you have any questions or would like to talk with a board member, please feel free to reach out in person or by email. board@tahoe.church 

With Grattitude,

John Halverson, Lindsay Warren, Cindy Nelson, Bruce Dennie, Jake Wildberger, Terrence Sutton and Kappie Keates

April Board Summary 

As part of our commitment to transparency and consistent communication, the Board is pleased to share a few highlights from our April meeting.

Vision & Spiritual Focus
We began by reflecting on our 2026 vision of “Going Deeper.” This includes growing in spiritual maturity, strengthening our leadership, and continuing to follow Jesus’ example of servant leadership (John 13). As a Board, we are focusing on thoughtful governance, operational improvements, and going deeper in our role as spiritual leaders—serving alongside both staff and one another with unity and purpose.

Celebrations & Staff Updates
We are excited to celebrate Jordan Marsland, our Executive Pastor, as he reaches 5 years of faithful service at Tahoe Church. In alignment with our church practices, Jordan will be taking a well-deserved sabbatical, along with paternity leave and vacation time, spaced out over the coming year.

We are also thrilled to celebrate Jordan Marsland and Karisa Marsland as they prepare to welcome a new baby this summer! We invite the entire church family to join us for a baby shower on May 31st, right after church, as we honor and support them in this exciting new chapter.

During this season, we ask for grace and flexibility, as staff capacity will be reduced. The church’s focus will be on maintaining current ministries rather than launching new initiatives.

Campus Improvements – Shade Structure Project

A central focus this summer is the development of a new outdoor shade structure. This is not only a practical improvement—it is a safety need. Our current lack of adequate shade exposes families, and volunteers to prolonged sun and heat, creating real risks during outdoor gatherings. Addressing this is an important step in caring well for our community.

At the same time, this project reflects our broader calling as a church. God has entrusted us with a unique and beautiful property, and we have both the opportunity and responsibility to use it intentionally—to create a welcoming, functional space where people can gather, connect, and encounter Christ. This helps us lean into our Foundations: We always make room & we go outside. 

Additional campus improvements include river pad leveling and entrance enhancements. While construction may impact gathering logistics at times, we plan to continue outdoor services as much as possible and will communicate clearly along the way. We appreciate your flexibility and support throughout this important season.

The Board and staff see this as the primary focus of this summer—investing in our campus as an act of faith, trusting God to use it as a magnet for seekers. We believe He will draw people to Himself here, creating space for lives to be changed and for our community to grow deeper in Him.

Policy Updates
The Board continues to make strong progress on important policies. This month, we:

• Reviewed and advanced a comprehensive compensation and fair wage policy for staff
• Approved an updated governance policy, clarifying the roles and responsibilities of the Board and its relationship with church leadership
• Reviewed and approved the Board calendar

We are grateful for the unity and diligence of our Board in this work.

Thank you for the privilege of serving the Tahoe Church family. If you have any questions or would like to talk with a board member, please feel free to reach out in person or by email. board@tahoe.church 

With Grattitude,

John Halverson, Lindsay Warren, Cindy Nelson, Bruce Dennie, Jake Wildberger, Terrence Sutton and Kappie Keates