Catherine Anderson Leaves Role as Practice Discipleship Director

Dear friends,
I hope you have had a wonderful summer!

Catherine Anderson, who began and directed the “Practice Discipleship Initiative” has chosen to step down from her role leading that ministry. Catherine is choosing to focus her energies in a new direction. She told me “I’ve loved being a part of the creative process. After working on PD for four years, I’m looking forward to working on something new.”

For the past four years, Catherine has given dynamic and creative leadership to this program, which in partnership with the ELCA Youth Gathering, has created a network of synodical coaches that has provided local training events with total attendance in the tens of thousands.

In addition, a library of learning videos and recorded webinars have been created that have been utilized by congregations and individuals throughout our church.

And an amazing network of leadership development through all the synods of the church has been developed.

Catherine’s leadership in the PD initiative will be missed. Of course, she’s not disappearing. Her work in the Northeastern Minnesota Synod office continues, and she will remain a vital part of the Network. We are very grateful for all that she has done on behalf of those who do ministry with children, youth and families. Thanks be to God!

Tammy Jones West has agreed to step in as an interim director for Practice Discipleship through the upcoming program year. During that time we will initiate a program review and needs assessment to discern the direction for Practice Discipleship moving into the future.

Please keep Catherine, Tammy and the Practice Discipleship Initiative in your prayers during this time of transition.

Blessings on your fall ministries!

Rev. Todd Buegler
Pastor – Trinity Lutheran Church; Owatonna, Minnesota Executive Director – ELCA Youth Ministry Network