Lay Pastoral Associates

A Lay Pastoral Associate in the Montana Synod is a congregational lay person who has received religious, educational training, through the Montana Synod, in order to provide (in most cases)  short term pulpit supply (ie, preaching) when the pastor is away, or if a congregation is without a pastor.  Their role is to fill in for the basic pastoral duties such as providing Word and Sacrament, communion, and other roles as approved by the Bishop. 
​LPAs are NOT authorized to preside at weddings.

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Armand Lohof,
LPA, Class of 2002

Armand has been a Lay Pastor Associate for some time, and doing the work of a LPA for even longer. When he was attending one of the four LPA courses, Armand said he was solidified in his call when the pastor said "You are called"; his calling was affirmed.  Armand is a retired high school social studies teacher; he is currently involved in the Boy Scouts of America as a Scout Leader, and a Leader in the Lewis & Clark Expedition.  Armand has been married to his lovely wife, Arle for over 58 years; and have two children and four grandchildren. 

Cindy Linse,
​LPA Candidate, Class of 2018

Cindy is a Billings native and currently works as a substitute teacher in the Billings public school system. In the past, she has taught at Montana State University, Billings.  She spent 6 years studying psychology in Paris France. In the church, Cindy is a member of the church council.   In her spare time, Cindy likes to  read a great book and attend to her garden.

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