Extraordinary Lutheran Ministries

2649 N. Francisco Ave
Chicago, IL 60647 
For Immediate Release

February 2, 2009 

Extraordinary Lutheran Ministries Names First Executive Director 

Extraordinary Lutheran Ministries has named Amalia Vagts as its first Executive Director.   

Extraordinary Lutheran Ministries (ELM) credentials and rosters qualified candidates of all sexual orientations and gender identities for ministry; supports these pastors by connecting them with congregations and ministries that are committed to the full participation of people of all sexual orientations and gender identities in Lutheran life and ministry; provides mission grants to support the ministry of its roster members; and provides a network of support to congregations and pastors. ELM is based in Chicago, Illinois and has placements throughout the United States, in Canada and South Africa. 

Vagts was hired as Development Director for Lutheran Lesbian & Gay Ministries (LLGM) in October 2006.  She was involved with the 2007 merger between LLGM and Extraordinary Candidacy Project that formed Extraordinary Lutheran Ministries. During the merger/transition to ELM, Amalia took on not just additional fundraising responsibilities, but also provided leadership for the newly developing organization and leadership team, the Covenant Circle.   

The Covenant Circle recommended the change order to fully reflect the work Vagts is doing for the organization and to best represent the growth of Extraordinary Lutheran Ministries. In her new role, Vagts will continue to primarily focus on development.  Vagts will also manage the communications and coalition work for Extraordinary Lutheran Ministries.  In October 2008, Extraordinary Lutheran Ministries relocated its office to Chicago, Illinois and hired a part-time Operations Coordinator.  Vagts supervises this staff person. The executive leadership of ELM will continue to be the Covenant Circle, reflecting the broad base of leadership and commitment that is at the heart of our organizational vision. 

Co-chairs Lois Voss and Rev. Erik Christensen said of the change: “We know many of you have gotten to know Amalia during her time with Extraordinary Lutheran Ministries and we hope you share our enthusiasm about this change. We are thrilled with the work she has done and are committed to her future with the organization.  Please join us in congratulating Amalia as she assumes a new level of leadership and responsibility with Extraordinary Lutheran Ministries.” 

Vagts resides and works in Decorah, Iowa. She is a member of Good Shepherd Lutheran Church, ELCA, a Reconciling in Christ congregation.