Who We Are
Lutheran Church of the Cross (LCC) was started as a home mission congregation of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in 1955. Trinity Lutheran Church of Bismarck acted as the sponsoring congregation. The first services were held in the current building on the 11th of March, 1956.
LCC has had eight pastors and two interim pastors. Rev. Harold Hofstad was called by the ELC Home Mission Department in 1955. Pastor Doug Thorkelson served the shortest period of time, as he passed away eleven months into his pastorate. Pastor Keith Odney had the longest tenure, serving twenty years. Pastor Lisa Ahlness currently serves the LCC congregation.
We have been blessed with hardworking, dedicated members who captured the vision from the beginning, and who continue to “walk with the Lord” through their faith journey.
Our Council Team
Our Church Council consists of seven very dedicated people who are always striving to live their faith through the church. They are
Mike Geiermann: President
Mike Humann: President
Jessi Karvo: Secretary
Our Rostered and Lay Leaders
Our Church Rostered and Lay Professionals are the heart of every church, dedicating their time as a professional group of God-loving and worship supporting people. We’re so glad to have them with us!
Lisa Ahlness
Pastor
Pastor Lisa has been with LCC for over three years. We are so lucky to have her! As the Senior pastor for our church, she leads in communing with God, learning the Word, attending to the needs of members, and providing growing, loving church family.
Connie Werner
Church Secretary
Where would any church be without the church secretary! Connie is the center of church communications. If you have a question, give the office a call and see what’s going on!
Pending
Director Of Discipleship
Our Director of Discipleship position is currently vacant. But don’t worry! We’re working hard to find the right fit!
Art Wheeler
Treasurer
Long time Treasurer Art is a native North Dakotan who originally moved to Bismarck in 1980 with wife Florence. As the LCC treasurer, Art keeps our committees and council on track and informed on church budgets, giving, and expenses.
Beth Greff
Sunday Worship and Music
Beth is a relatively new member of our team, taking over in August 2022 after Robin departed from leading the Worship and Music team. Beth also works as a local librarian and has a great background in music. We are are so excited to have Beth with us!
Joel Crane
Wednesday Worship and Music
Joel joined our team as the coordinator for Wednesday services in 2020. A talented musician, and former choral singer, Joel joined us after completing his advanced degree overseas. Do you recognize Joel from somewhere else? We’ll leave the mystery to you. We are excited to have Joel leading us through Wednesday services and hope you can join him in worship!