Michael: (age 41)

Serving in my first full-time pastorate has been fun and challenging  While in seminary, I learned the book knowledge, having been in the church has allowed me to actually apply the things I learned or at least what I thought I had learned.  I view the Christian journey in the same manner; there becomes a point when practical application is a necessity for spiritual growth.  I have to say that it is a true joy for me to see people grow in their Christ likeness and to support others on their own Christian journey.  This is why I describe myself as a hands-on type pastor  My father told me I should be willing to do whatever I ask others to do.  Having been raised Catholic and now being Baptist; I feel my ministry is called to focus more on the commonalities rather than the differences between denominations, and help people become the disciples who God wants them to be.  

Both my father and step-dad got me hooked on fishing.  Besides catching them, I love to eat them.  However, I am not very good at cleaning them, that still needs work.  I love to be doing things with my hands, whether it be yard work, house repairs, building things (though I am no Bob Villa), working on cars.  I like to watch movies some old and new.  I have to admit that I am a Trekkie, more the newer series than the old series.  Another area I like to dabble in is cooking.  I like to try new dishes even though my taste buds don't like many vegetables.  I really enjoy firing up the gas grill and seeing what I can burn, no not really, but I do enjoy grilling.  When it comes to musical ability, I get to appreciate it.  As a pastor friend has said, it sounds great inside me but I lose something in the translation as it comes out.   

My family is very important to me.  Having experienced what Shari and I have in our time together has brought us very close, even closer in our relationships with God.  I want people to know that they are not alone in this world.  No matter what you are experiencing, there is a man named Jesus Christ who will walk beside you.  You don't have to go it alone; He will walk with you and encourage you.                  

Shari: (age 41)

While Michael was in Seminary, I went back to school to receive my Bachelor's Degree in Theology/Child Development.  Originally, my goal was to continue working in Christian education either in the church or in a preschool setting, however, I have returned to working as a pharmacy technician.  This job has really allowed me to work on my people skills and also has shown me that education never ends.  I have kept busy with my extra jobs around the church supporting Michael’s ministry through music coordination for worship and heading up the Christian education/missions team for the diaconate.  God has trained me in many different areas and there always seems to be an abundance of activities for me to be involved in at work and in the church.      

I have always been involved in activities in the church from playing piano, teaching classes for all ages, singing, and serving on the church council.  All of these experiences have only brought me to a better understanding of my Christian walk and living in fellowship with other believers.  I enjoy reading books, playing games, and being with people.  I find great joy in going to my children's activities, such as children’s sermons and Sunday school classes.  I enjoy playing with my dogs and taking them to the beach.  I also enjoy baking but have not found much time for that lately.  Family is important to me so when we are far away from each other we keep in touch with phone calls and emails.     

Travis: (age 20)

I graduated from high school in 2007. I now work at Home Depot as a cashier. I am involved with Special Olympics in bowling and track, I also video tape for the high school football team. I love watching football as I am a Minnesota Vikings fan.  I love spending my spare time playing video games and hanging out with my friends that I went to school with. I am pretty social and like to make sure that all people are involved in the group.  I agree with what my parents’ say, that I am a miracle and that is only because of God.    

Natalie: (age 18)

I am currently a senior in high school.  I love to sing and pretty much do most anything musical. I happen to be a major book worm and have at least 3 books going at a time. I’m involved in Key Club, which is a leadership club, we get out in the community, help out and it’s really a lot of fun. Bible club is another club I’m in and it’s been great to connect with other Christian students. I also really enjoy going to the movies and that’s generally something I do with friends, who definitely mean a lot to me. I don’t know where I’d be without my friends, family and above all, God.

Trixie: (age 11)

I'm one of the family dogs.  I'm an English springer spaniel and I love to play with tennis balls.  I also like to swim, chase and bark at everything, and I mean everything. 

Lilly: (age 9)

I'm another one of the family dogs.  I'm a Cairn terrier and I like to lie in the sun and chase other animals in our backyard.  I will gladly sit in your lap with or without your permission.