EF 2818 A Summary of an Interview with Pastor Paul Kuske

Abstract

Jason Zahn’s 2000 interview with Pastor Paul Kuske explores the history and development of the Lutheran Association for Church Extension (LACE), founded in 1960 to provide financial support for self-supporting congregations. Kuske recounts LACE’s origins, its early challenges, and its evolving relationship with WELS, the Church Extension Fund (CEF), and state financial regulations. The interview highlights God’s providence in LACE’s growth, including its 30% annual expansion and zero loan defaults. Kuske emphasizes the importance of lay involvement, humility, and cooperation with synodical leadership. Zahn reflects on broader ministry lessons, such as seizing opportunities, interpreting setbacks with patience, and empowering laypeople for service. The appendix includes detailed questions used in the interview, covering LACE’s structure, investment offerings, legal status, and inter-synod relationships. The paper offers both historical insight and practical applications for church leadership and financial stewardship.

—Summary generated by Microsoft Copilot (GPT-4)