Lead Pastor (she/her)

Contact Pastor Sarah

I began my ministry at Grace in October 2022. What drew me to Grace was the passion I found here for meaningful worship, caring community, and expansive welcome. I grew up in Sioux Falls, SD and New Ulm, MN; I did my undergraduate studies at Concordia College and my seminary formation at the Lutheran School of Theology at Chicago. Prior to arriving at Grace, I served as pastor in St. Charles, IL for ten years. I share life with my husband, Andrew, and our two sons, Benjamin and Owen. Alongside pastoring and parenting, I find great joy in hammock naps (especially on Sunday afternoons!), sourdough bread, hand-written cards, and meals shared with others.

Associate Pastor (he/they)

Contact Pastor Reed

I have been the Associate Pastor at Grace since October 2023. Prior to serving in this community, I attended seminary at the Lutheran School of Theology at Chicago, a few years after completing my undergraduate theater degree at NYU Abu Dhabi. It is such a gift to grow in faith alongside this congregation and the wider community, as we journey together in moments of joy, grief, and change. My spouse and I (plus our cats and dog) live in an LGBTQIA+ centered housing cooperative in St. Paul. I love to garden, create textile art, and read.

Director of Faith Formation (she/her)

Contact Lisa

I arrived at Grace in August of 2021, after serving congregations in the Twin Cities for the past 25 years. I grew up in Duluth, MN, attended UMD, and five years ago, returned to school where I earned a Master’s in Leadership and Innovation in Ministry from Luther Seminary. My partner Mike and I live in Ramsey, MN (yes, it is a long drive to Apple Valley!) and have five children between us. I am Nana to Harper and Oliver and love every minute I get to spend with them! In my free time I am an avid reader, quilter, traveler, and I do Wordle every day.

Director of Church Operations (she/her)

Contact Lisa

I've lived in Minnesota almost all my life. I grew up in New Ulm, attended college at Mankato State and then moved to the Twin Cities area. I have two grown daughters. My hobbies include gardening, crocheting, and managing my two dogs. Although I've always worked in an accounting role, some of those positions have included other office and HR duties. I became a member at Grace 28 years ago and felt at home in this congregation right from the start. I've served on Council with a term as treasurer, on Outreach, RIC, Nominating, and am very involved in the Guatemala ministry. I am looking forward to the contributions I can make to this faith community and our ministries in a new capacity!

Custodian (he/him)

Contact Payton

Prior to working at Grace, I worked as a custodian for the Farmington school district. I grew up in Apple Valley, but currently live in Inver Grove Heights. I am a student at Inver Hills Community College finishing up my generals, then will pursue a degree in Human Resource Development. In my free time, I enjoy listening to music, reading books, and playing with my baby niece, Parker.

Office Administrator (she/her)

Contact Mary

For a number of years, I have worked in the communications, marketing and customer service fields. The best part of all of my jobs has been the chance to help others. My husband Robert and I live in Eagan. We have a cabin in Danbury, WI, and enjoy hosting family and friends on the weekends. I am an avid reader and love spending time with my nieces and nephew. I am very grateful for the opportunity to join the staff at Grace Lutheran Church! Everyone I have met so far has been so warm and welcoming and I look forward to meeting you all. Please stop by and introduce yourself!

Organist (she/her)

Contact Sheryl

Music Director (he/him)

Contact Steve

Building & Grounds, Audio/Tech (he/him)

Contact Eric