POC/LOE Nominees

Person of Color/Languag other than English

Constantino Cruz

Health Care Administrator

Sense of Call: I am always helping our community members in every possible way.

Skills/Experiences: United States NAVY public Health and preventive medicine 12 years
Health Care Administration with children of special needs 11 years

Service Activities: Lecture reader
Sacrament leader for adults members
Community leader assisting church members with social issues

Andraine Sinaga

Academic Advisor

Sense of Call: "I first began my role on synod at 17 years old and since then, served on the ELCA church council as a youth representative, graduated high school, graduated college, and began working at the local community college as an academic advisor primarily serving a first generation population. In these 4 years, I’ve learned so much about myself and what it means to listen to and be guided by the Spirit. Literally growing up in this role and nearing the end of my term, I realized that I am just beginning. As a young Indonesian-American who was raised in the Lutheran church, a predominantly White denomination, it is important to encourage diverse voices. With these experiences, traveling and collaborating with others who share a vision for reforming a church once bound by oppressive ideologies helped me discover my favorite version of myself: the one who understood that the world was much bigger than herself— and even more so, feeling that I am getting closer to the identity that God has created for me. It was a catalyst to finding an unadulterated passion for serving communities and acknowledging that there is hope even in the darkest of places. If we are created in God’s image, it is important that our church reflects that. My faith has cultivated a deep sense of servant leadership. The belief that leadership is
not about authority or recognition, but about listening, empathy, and lifting others up. In serving others, I have found not only my voice, but also a calling to create spaces where others can find
theirs."

Skills/Experiences: Through my time on councils, for the three different expressions of the church, I have learned to communicate effectively and practice active listening. I have also seen how much hard work our legislative body does and their diligence in making sure that the gospel is accessible to everyone. In my current role as an academic advisor, I aim to make information and processes accessible. It is also crucial to adapt to the cultural contexts that we live in and in the community we serve. I found that I am at my best when I am able to connect with individuals, find creative solutions, and create spaces where they feel heard and reassured.

Service Activities: I currently serve on the Synod council as the person of color/language other than English representative.

Curt Williams

Librarian, Manager

Sense of Call: Curt describes his sense of call as a disciple to listen closely to the Spirit and respond with action. The invitation to consider service to the synod through this nomination is just that, a nudging from the Spirit. For Curt, faith is a verb - walking the walk, serving others, and participating in the work that God is already doing in the world. Curt understands faith as active and ongoing: a daily commitment to love, serve, and when we fall short, try again. This nomination is an invasion to embody a lived faith within the synod - showing up, listening well, and faithfully engaging in the mission before us.

Skills/Experiences: Curt brings a range of skills and experiences that equip him for service on synod council. He has served on Congregational Council in various roles. On council Curt values and lifts up diversity of perspectives and shared leadership. He has experience in leading in ways that demonstrate a commitment to inclusive and meaningful participation. As someone who is shaped by a Black Lutheran and eumenical perspective, he values the way diversity brings a richness to the church's life and mission. Professionally, Curt brings experience as as a manager, and a background in English literature, and broadcast journalism. Curt offers strong writing skills, including published work, and approaches challenges with curiosity and a researcher's mindset. He is committed to finding thoughtful and well-informed answers. Curt's involvement in local politics has strengthened his ability to collaborate, navigate differing viewpoints, and work towards common goals. Additionally, as a Stephen Minister, Curt has cultivated deep listening as a core strength. He offers presence, care, and compassion to others in all that he does.

Service Activities: Congregational council - St. Stephen's Lutheran Church, Northglenn, CO Stephen Minister