Grace's Blog 2024
November 21, 2024
Talking Behind Each Other’s Backs!
I hope that heading got your attention! Usually we don’t give that advice, however, in WOW (women on Wednesday) once I month, I lead a study. We are using the book “Everybody Always” by Bob Goff. We are talking about how we are becoming love and how God invites us to love EVERYBODY. ALWAYS.
So, what is with this whole talking behind others backs thing? Bob invites us to do what God does- that is don’t tell people what they want, tell them who they are. God told Jonah, “You’re fish food” and he was God told Mary, “You are a mother” and that is who she became; Jesus told Peter, “you’re a rock, and the foundation of my church” and he was! In the same way can we talk good things about others behind their backs and then tell them about it?!
This happened when our youth gathered for High School Youth group- someone said something nice about me and then they shared it with me! This is also the joy I have as a pastor when I hear our outreach partners give thanks for this congregation, when I see the difference your gifts for Christmas make for a family who is struggling to make ends meet, when we can give someone not one bag of food from our food shelf but four so they can feed their family, when you visit, call, and care for each other in times of illness and/or grief.
Grace this is who God has called us to be, and this is who you are! So, as we approach thanksgiving week, I am giving thanks for who you are, and I am telling you about it!
You are kind, courageous, caring, compassionate, generous, thoughtful and so much more! I am grateful to be your pastor and to be inspired by you to love God and love the world around us.
Blessings,
Pastor Maria Markman
November 14, 2024
Glad and Generous Hearts
I gave a pastor-friend a tour of our building today. She had never been here but has been pastoring for over 10 years in a church that has a daycare. She was in awe over our renovations and also the security of our daycare and the investment of the congregation. “I can’t believe you ran your daycare the whole time!” She proclaimed to me. “This was a lot of work. It’s amazing!”
I love showing off our building. I love giving people tours of our new spaces and sharing with them the investment that our congregation has made in our own building and also in our daycare. Earlier today, I gave a tour to another person who had been an attendee of Golden Rule as a child. She holds our church, and in particular our daycare in a special place in her heart. She too praised the changes made. During last weeks election, our neighbors came in not only to vote, but they were excited to check out our space. They peeked in the sanctuary, and the bathrooms and commented repeatedly about how great the changes are.
I don’t need others to tell me the renovations look good. I don’t need people to sing our praise, but I LOVE TO SHARE OUR STORY. It’s amazing what everyone has done here at Grace over the past few years and your commitment to our community to our daycare, to our church and to one another. I am so grateful!
We are in the process of putting together our budget for 2025. It’s been an interesting process. Property Insurance and cleaning bills will be higher, as expected for our newly renovated space. Our ministry is flourishing and our staff is strong. Our building is being utilized by outside partners like the boy scouts, and also by our own members.
In this season of Thanksgiving, I hope you will join me in praying for our church and our ongoing mission and ministry. That we might continue to reach out, invite in and share God’s love with the world around us. I pray that we can continue to be a place that welcomes all and that shares with the community around us, providing care. I also hope that you will pray about how God is calling you to grow deeper in faith through your involvement in Grace. Is this the year, you are going to serve in a new way? Would you consider investing in the future of Grace by making a commitment for the first time, or increasing your gift to our Ministry operations, so that we can continue to be a space for grace in our world. Join us this Sunday for our Glad and Generous Hearts Commitment Worship, or make a pledge online today.
Blessings,
Pastor Joanna Mitchell
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October 31, 2024
Transitions
The weather is changing and so are things at Grace Lutheran. We have held onto the warmth of summer for way longer than usual and it has been a blessing. I want it to last a lot longer. I also feel that way about another transition at Grace, Tracie Russell, our church administrator is resigning. She informed the staff earlier this week and has submitted a letter of resignation to the Vision Board. Tracie shared that her mother had a stroke and her (Tracie’s) need to be available to help her parents is important especially at this time. She has noted that balancing her desire to care for her parents and work here is too much. Tracie has been such a valuable asset to our team especially during a stressful time with our building project. I am convinced that we were able to be as successful as we have been because of Tracie’s good work, her attention to detail and her management of our money. I am so thankful for her and will miss her immensely as a member of our staff. Thankfully, she will still remain at Grace Lutheran as a member.
Tracie has given us a generous timeline for her resignation, committing to staying through the end of this year, and the budget as we look and train a replacement for her. I hope you will join me in thanking Tracie for her work, supporting her in prayer as she balances both work and family at this time, and helping her have the space she needs to tend to both during this transitional time. Please let me know if you have any questions. A job description will be posted soon. In the meantime, I recognize the great gift God gave us in Tracie. She helped our staff and me in particular when I really needed her. She set us up with a solid foundation for our financial health and has led well. I know that someone else needs her now more than we do and so while I am sad to release her from her position here at Grace, I know that God will continue to use her for important work.
Blessings,
Pastor Joanna Mitchell
October 24, 2024
Signs of Grace the Slow Work of God
We have a new sign. Our monument signs that used to be “Golden Rule” now say, “Seeds of Grace.” It’s a small change that is easy to miss especially with our parking lot under construction. But these signs have been in the work for years. In fact, I would say, we started working on updating them at least 2 years ago, if not longer. To be clear, they were in a file folder for over a year and put on pause. But I have been actively working on them alongside Nancy Jenkins and Marie Kolar since May or June this year. It’s taken months, so many emails, so many drafts to get them done. I can’t believe they are actually done.
It’s funny, something that doesn’t look like a lot of work, actually was. And I wonder about the slow and steady work of God. Is this sign project an indicator that God is at work behind the scenes sometimes and we just can’t see it, notice it. And even when God’s work is complete and God has been doing big things, we see it as a small thing. God’s grace can be hard to see, it might be subtle, it might take longer than anticipated and yet I am convinced that God’s love, God’s grace is working in our lives whether we can see the sign or not yet.
Blessings,
Pastor Joanna Mitchell
October 17, 2024
Space For God
Our Vision Board met this past week. We are currently reading a book together called Faithful Innovations. It’s a book that allows us to reflect on how to be the church in this time and place and thankfully was written after COVID. This week’s chapter focused on Listening: listening to God’s word, listening to our neighbor, listening to ourselves. In our discussion, one of member of the board, quoted a line from the book that spoke about slowing down and giving space for God. This idea resonated with many of us. Go figure, a leadership team filled with busy people. We wondered together about how to slow down and recognize that this time isn’t a lack of something, but instead an invitation to leave space for God.
This weekend is typically a little longer for our families for MEA break. In a busy time of year, and running from activities, how can you slow down and leave space for God? I know I will be joining you in this important work.
Blessings,
Pastor Joanna Mitchell
October 3, 2024
Paying Attention
The lilacs are blooming in October. Have you noticed this? We have lilacs in my neighborhood that have started to bloom for the second time this year. They are surrounded by bare branches and lack the vibrant green of spring. Huh. It has been an usually warm year. Our September did not feel like September in Minnesota. Our winter was the same. And while, I rejoice at a beautiful year and wonderful weather it does make me pause and wonder. Wonder about the ill effects of global warming. Wonder if in years to come the second bloom of the lilacs will be normal and also a sign that things are not as they should be.
This past week, the south-eastern United States had a catastrophic hurricane. This hurricane went further inland and ended up devastating parts of North Carolina. For those who want you can make a donation to Lutheran Disaster Response by clicking here. We will also take a noisy offering the next few weeks in order to respond to this crisis as well. I am mindful that as I pay attention to abnormalities in my midst that are resulting in extended summer like days that others are hurting. How do we pay attention to it all? The beauty and the pain? How do we respond to the people who are hurting? How do we recognize God’s invitation to pay attention and care for those to whom God is directing our attention.
Blessings,
Pastor Joanna Mitchell
September 26, 2024
Faith Fundamentals-Understanding the Bible
My dad made a comment about the bible to me recently. He stated: “The bible must be written poorly because we are still studying it thousands of years after its creation.” My dad is not a regular reader of the bible. But his words reminded me of one of the big problems with the bible and that is we don’t understand it. We have been given all sorts of different ideas about what the bible is-a history book, God’s instruction for our life. And sometimes we make a commitment to reading it, but it is hard to understand. We find ourselves lost in complicated names and stories.
Next Wednesday, I hope you will join us for our first class in a new series: Faith Fundamentals, where we will be examining and learning about the Bible and in particular this week the Old Testament. What is it? How do we make sense of it? How can I start to read it and actually have some understanding? The class is on Wednesday night in the sanctuary at 6pm. At 6:30pm we will break into age appropriate groups. This is an intergenerational class that will be led by Pastor Maria and me. I am excited to kick off the series.
In an effort to do this, I would love you to bring a book you like or one that you are currently reading. No, I don’t need all the books you want to read. Just one, any genre. It will be our intro activity.
Please join us, invite a friend, bring a family member. Let’s try to navigate this complicated book of faith together and better understand why we are still reading, discussing and arguing (at times) about what the bible says two thousand years after it was written.
Blessings,
Pastor Joanna Mitchell
September 12, 2024
Thanks be to God!
My cup is overflowing with gratitude for such a wonderful celebration on Sunday. I hope you will take a moment and look at some pictures. Watch the video of our transformation. I am so grateful for our Vision Board Members, Faith Practices and Neighboring Practices group, and other leaders who made our grand opening such a success. Thank you for coming and thank you for inviting others.
On Wednesday evening we kicked off our new program year. Our bible study was filled with new people eager to study the bible. I am so excited to learn together. Our new gathering space was filled with people too. Own your faith mentors meeting with mentees, other people hanging out and doing homework. What a gift it is to have this spacious building to connect, and to live our lives of faith. Thanks be to God for all of this and so much more!
Blessings,
Pastor Joanna Mitchell
September 5, 2024
Ready? Let’s Go!
I had almost the last two weeks off. The first, I traveled to Madison, Wisconsin and then to Chicago, looking at colleges and visiting friends. The second week was at home for a nice long weekend. Jeff and I reflected together on what a busy summer it was. Life didn’t really slow down at Grace with the building project and all of the movement. We waited until the final two weeks of August for a much-needed vacation. It was exactly what I needed! I am so grateful for the time away.
When I walked out of the house today the air was crisp, and the energy was high. School is starting. Our building project is finishing. Our Grand Opening is just around the corner. There are all sorts of things to button up and we are ready. Ready to welcome. Ready to listen to you and hear what you are excited about. Ready to grow in faith. Ready to serve our neighbor. Are you ready? Let’s go!
Blessings, Pastor Joanna Mitchell
August 29, 2024
What’s the Buzz!
It is amazing all that is going on at Grace! Grace at a Glance is the place where you get all of the information about what is going on in the life and ministry of Grace! I continue to be amazed at all our staff does day in and day out week after week to ensure our ministry leaders and teams feel supported. We design meaningful programming for children, youth and their families and try our best to keep up with the changing tides and seasons of living in a busy world. I am so grateful for our staff for how thoughtful they are about changes that must come, about ministry, and about GRACE (God’s grace and this place)!
I want to highlight a couple of fun things that happened this week! For those of you who joined us on Sunday, we are now able to enter into our church through the new main entry! When you walk in the door, you enter into our new expanded hallway and y’all it is wonderful. My brain is bubbling with all the possibilities of this new space! If you can stop by this week or next, please do to see this transformation. And don’t forget September 8th our Grand Opening Celebration. I have been busy all week emailing volunteers and hearing from members who have invited ministry partners, neighbors, and strangers to this event! Please keep doing this! We want the whole community to be there!
Our Men’s ministry had a BBQ at Stepping Stones Emergency Housing, you can hear more and see photos below. Thanks to Grace’s Men’s ministry for providing this meal and fellowship to this community. To learn more about men’s ministry- reach out to me () and I will get you talking to the guys.
Today I was able to glaze with our preschoolers. Did you know that Grace has a kiln? We do! Seeds of Grace and Grace purchased the kiln used two years ago for $50 dollars each. We use the kiln most often for 1st communion class and glazing chalices. But we also use this for Children and Youth crafts and now with our preschoolers. It is so fun to serve these children! As a called pastor at Grace, I am also called to serve our preschool and what a joy this is! What life they bring to our congregation, to our church, to our ministry! Jesus said “Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these.” -Matthew 19:14
Blessings, Pastor Maria
August 22, 2024
The Finish Line
Dear Grace Lutheran,
We are approaching the Finish Line for our project, and it feels like we can see the end and yet, it still feels far away. I leave this morning for vacation. Off to explore colleges with my youngest daughter and visit friends too. I ask for your prayers. Please continue to pray for our staff, for the GRAMPS team, for the end of our project and all involved. It has been an amazing journey, and I know that many of us are tired and ready to be done and yet there is still more to do. We can do hard things. I am so thankful for the tremendous volunteers who continue to do heavy lifting (literally) for us all the time. We couldn’t be where we are without you!
Blessings, Pastor Joanna
August 15, 2024
Eat the Frog First Thing in the Morning … A Reflection on 5 Years Together
I work out to a YouTube video series called nourish, move, love. It’s run by a Minnesota woman, Lindsey Bomgren, who promotes strength training for women. I just finished the series: Build 30 for the second time. It’s been the most difficult 2-week weight training I’ve done so far. It’s hard and it’s also satisfying. Throughout this series Rachel, the co-leader, keeps quoting from Mark Twain saying, “if you are going to eat the frog it is best to do it first thing in the morning.” She says this before we do something hard like 30 burpees, or push-ups. In a lot of ways, it is the motivation to say, “okay you started the day with a hard thing, now things will get easier.” “Look at what you’ve done. You can accomplish other hard things too.”
Monday marks the anniversary of my 5th year at Grace. As I reflect on my time here, we have eaten many frogs right out of the gate. Selling land, COVID, a building project. I admit doing this together with you has made us stronger. We have collectively built some muscle as a congregation. Things that used to seem hard, now seem a little easier. It has also been so wonderful to not be doing this alone. This community of faith is special. I am so thankful to be your pastor. Whenever I meet with people and talk about my job, or my church, I am quick to note how supportive this community is. I have a wonderful staff, a supportive and faithful vision board, and a congregation that is invested in its future. What a gift. As I turn this page, onto this 6th year of ministry at Grace, I feel like we have done the frog eating for now and can face the challenges set before us. I also know that when we encounter another big obstacle that we have the capabilities to do that next challenging thing and keep sharing the Gospel in new ways.
Thank you, Grace Lutheran Church, you are amazing. It’s been a gift to be your pastor these past 5 years. I am excited to see where God brings us next.
Blessings, Pastor Joanna
August 8, 2024
Christikon Backpacking Trip
I just returned on Sunday from a 5-day-long backpacking trip with the high schoolers at Christikon in the Custer Gallatin National Forest. We had an incredible time! It is such a challenging and rewarding adventure. The community we built on the way was so supportive and caring and fun. Thank you to my chaperones, Chrissy and Nissa! And thank you to all the students for making this such a great experience. Enjoy some of my favorite pictures from the trip!
~ Will Weikle
Youth trips like these are one of the many and various ways that we invest and help nourish the faith of our young people. Thank you, Grace Lutheran for your commitment to sharing God’s love with our youth!
July 25, 2024
Seeing God
Our youth leave on Saturday for Christikon. I am so excited for them. This is one of my favorite places in the world. Not only is it beautiful with mountainsides and wildflowers, but the people there are amazing too. It was at Christikon as a youth that I began my call to ministry and my faith took a big turn. I had experienced God at church and in Sunday School lessons and Confirmation lessons too. But at campfire with stars overhead, singing songs of God is love and all who abide in love abide in God, and God in them. I awakened to the love that we sang about. God’s love was bigger and more vast than I ever expected. And God’s love surrounded me. Yes, on the one hand I was small. Just a little 7th and 8th grader and a speck in the universe. But on the other hand, I was beloved, I was named, I was seen and included. We live in these two realities. One piece of God’s awesome creation and also God’s child. As you walk around the world today may your eyes be open to seeing God in all things in the beauty, in the pain, in the expansive nature of our world and in the minute details.
Blessings,
Pastor Joanna Mitchell
July 18, 2024
Pop-up Concert to Benefit Memory Lane Singers
My father has a passion for singing with others. So much so he has started three community choirs in the northwest Suburbs since 1998 (Two Rivers Chorale, Northern Lights Chorale, and now the Memory Lane Singers). He understands the power music holds in our heart, mind, and soul, and it never leaves us. We often see and hear of people with memory issues, some unresponsive, come “back to life” when a familiar tune is played or sung. They remember all the words instantly, and joy fills their eyes. Music truly holds a special place in our self.
For the past 6 years my father has led the group “Voices of Impact.” A group for people with memory issues, their caregivers, and volunteers. They were supported by Impact Services of Anoka County (Meals on Wheels) until this past spring, when they were informed the organization could not financially support them anymore. Rather than disband, my father and the other leaders decided to rebrand and keep singing. Thus “Memory Lane Singers” was born.
To help get the Memory Lane Singers off the ground, there is a benefit concert this Saturday, July 20th at 3:00pm at Faith Lutheran Church in Coon Rapids. Over forty singers will come together for a one-time “Pop-up Choir” performance of uplifting and familiar songs to benefit the new group. Admission is Free. Parking is free. Donations will be accepted, and all proceeds will go to the group.
As my father writes “The purpose of the event is to not only raise funds for the group, but also to make people aware of the opportunity Memory Lane Singers provides to those who find it difficult to function in their current condition. Love, laughter, and music are all a part of who they are, and this is an invitation for anyone who deals with memory issues, to come and join us.”
More information about the group is available on their website www.memorylanesingersmn.org
Musically,
David Phelps, Director of Worship and Music
July 11, 2024
Neighboring Practices at Andover Family Fun Fest
Our Unraveled Sermon Series ended last week. This Sunday we are picking up where we left off after Easter- Jesus Resurrection and the days that followed before we turn to fall and begin again in the Old Testament. This Sunday’s text is Acts 1:1-14, the story of Jesus’ ascension, and the beginnings of the early church. Jesus says in verse 8, “You will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, Judea, Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.” The development of the early church is a great place for us to look at how the good news of Jesus spread, starting in the neighborhood and expanding to the ends of the earth! I have been reflecting on this this week while I prepare for my sermon on Sunday.
Our Faith Practices and Neighboring Practices Team at Grace, also thought it would be a great idea to practice being neighbors this summer. Throughout our learning cohort group we have learned different ways to be neighbors:
Ambient Neighboring: a collection of simple practices of presence and hospitality that give you a chance to get to know your neighborhood and extend a friendly welcome to neighbors. Examples: neighborhood walks, welcoming new neighbors to the community, warmly greeting neighbors, sharing messages of welcome (maybe on our sign)
Show Up Neighboring: is a collection of practices that give you a chance to simply show up and take part in the life of the community. Examples: attending neighborhood association or city council meetings, organizing church members to attend community events together, walking in or attending parades, and more!
Social Neighboring: is a collection of practices that bring neighbors together to build community, discern collective action, stand in solidarity, and have fun. Examples: host a block party, house meetings, candidate forums, community meals, and vigils as well as scheduling regular one to one conversations with neighbors.
Our Faith Practices and Neighboring Practices team have engaged in many of these practices already. Maybe you personally or as a family have done this as well. This weekend is Andover Family Fun Fest! We wonder if you plan to attend? If you do, might you keep your mind on neighboring practices? How will you share messages of welcome? How will you listen to your neighbors and community? Will you meet someone new? Might you join us in strengthening your neighboring heart this summer by showing up and being intentional about your interactions with neighbors in our community. This fall we plan to invite our neighbors to our Grand Opening in hopes that they will come and see the transformation at Grace!
Blessings,
Pastor Maria Markman
June 27, 2024
Out of Time and Happy Fourth of July
I am in a time warp this week. Yesterday, I said goodbye to JoAnn and told her to have a nice weekend, only for her to respond, “aren’t you working tomorrow?” What day is it? I wondered and then realized, “ahh, it’s only Wednesday.” And then with a gentle reminder to get Grace at a Glance done, I thought well it’s only Wednesday, only to realize that “nope it’s Thursday and this should have been in your inbox hours ago.”
I blame a busy week and also the fact that next week is the Fourth of July. People are coming and going on vacation and life feels just a bit unscheduled. Luckily, I am making it to my scheduled meetings right on time.
I suppose this is what summer feels like. Long days when we can get lost and disorientated. Weekends and Holidays that blur together because we don’t have to follow an agenda.
My prayer is that whether you have run out of time, or are arriving just in time, that you would live in God’s infinite time and embrace each day as it comes. And when we miss a deadline, may we be held in grace and love knowing that our obsession with time is a human thing and that everything will happen in God’s time.
Blessings and Happy 4th of July to you,
Pastor Joanna Mitchell
June 19, 2024
A Celebration of Life: Dean Keller
On Tuesday, June 25th, we are going to be commending Dean Keller into the hands of God. A visitation will be held starting at 9:30am and the funeral will begin at 11:00am with a lunch reception.
Dean was a member of Grace since 1970. He and his wife Barb raised their kids here. Barb was a part of the Golden Rule Board and Dean pretty much has his fingerprints all over this church. Literally, as I walk around it is hard to find items that Dean didn’t build, help fix, or paint. He was committed to this church and gave faithfully.
The picture on the left is on Dean’s 21st birthday (Leap Year baby). We shared cake and a song. Our birthdays are just a few days apart and it was fun to celebrate.
I will miss Dean. I already do. I miss his smile, his thoughtfulness, his willingness to do anything for anyone. I miss looking out in the church and seeing him and Barb sitting together. Dean is easy to celebrate. His life was full. He squeezed 84 years of abundant living into 21 birthdays. He taught, planned, created, and lived faithfully. I am so grateful for Dean. all he taught me and the ways he has shaped my faith.
We are looking for extra help for his funeral. Please see below. I also ask for an extra measure of your grace as we walk through this Celebration of Life together. We are still without a main hallway and limited bathrooms. Our funeral team is working with minimal space as well. As I think about Dean, I think about his willingness to figure things out. I know we can figure this out and what we do will honor his memory and his life.
Blessings,
Pastor Joanna Mitchell
June 13, 2024
It Takes A Village
VBS is in its final day over at Lord of Life. I had the privilege to teach preschool bible for two days. I was supposed to teach all week, but yesterday I was busy helping a fantastic crew move our preschoolers from their current room into the fellowship hall and today, I am home sick (it must have been all that dancing with the VBS crew or probably more likely all the kids). I am grateful this morning for partnerships.
It is amazing to run VBS with another church. I have been a part of VBS for 19 years of ministry. For 5 years I was the main person planning and organizing. It is a high stress job. I can tell Pastor Maria feels this the week before VBS. But since we have started partnering with Lord of Life some of the stress is diminished because we aren’t going it alone. We actually have two really great staffs to lead all of the lessons from the opening to games, to bible and imagination station. We have double the volunteers and a ton of kids. The other part I love is that we are sharing the resources. I can’t tell you the number of times I made these elaborate sets and bought all the stuff and then would try to give them away. Group publishing the creators of many VBS’s makes a lot of money in selling all the “stuff” to each church. It’s nice to share these expenses and to know that we aren’t both filling a landfill.
But partnerships go beyond VBS of course. It happens when staff members work side by side to assemble the new desk after a third office move in under a year (thanks Tracie and Marie). It happens when amazing volunteers show up and move a preschool room to the fellowship hall in less than 2 hours so that construction can start. It happens when we show and work side by side recognizing we all need each other.
Genesis 2:19 states: Then the Lord God said, “It is not good that the man should be alone; I will make him a helper as his partner.” Of course, God was talking about Adam the first human being before creating a partner. But I believe God meant this for all of us. Faith is not individual, yes, it’s personal but it’s not supposed to be done in isolation but community. Yes, we of course should spend time in prayer and also in our individual practices, but we do this in order to be a part of the community. One of the things I love about Grace is that we are really good at working together. I am blessed by the village that we are and the ways that we make so many things happen. I experience the abundance of God in all of you.
Blessings,
Pastor Joanna Mitchell
June 6, 2024
Patience and Love
I do not pray for patience; at least not for myself. I have learned the hard way that when you pray for something like patience, you will get a hard lesson in how to develop patience. Clearly, I still have some learning and growing to do. I have enough hard lessons in my life, patience doesn’t need to be amplified. But even without the prayers, I think God is trying to teach me patience. Patience while waiting for my computer to boot up. Patience while trying to get a website to load. Patience with the building project when things don’t go exactly as planned. Patience in not reacting to a situation, but still addressing it.
I am reminded of the words that Paul used about patience in 1 Corinthians 13, “Love is patient.” I don’t feel a lot of love when I am having to wait. And I wonder if that might be something to do when I am feeling impatient. Instead of allowing anger and irritation to build, could I focus on love. Could I pray for the person before me in line at the grocery store? Or the cashier as he slowly puts my items in the bag. Could my posture of love lead me in my impatience and might that lead to a needed transformation? I hope so.
I read recently that love and suffering are what opens us up to a greater understanding of God. Love and suffering is what leads us in new ways to transform. It breaks us open. On the one hand, love and suffering makes us more vulnerable, and on the other hand it also fills us. I wonder, if my impatience is often me being closed. I do not use the space that is given to me in the waiting. But perhaps God is inviting me in these moments to let go, to pause, to ground myself in love.
I am curious- what lesson do you try not to learn? How might God be teaching and leading you? Could you dare to encounter that hard thing with love and recognize God’s grace within?
Blessings,
Pastor Joanna Mitchell
May 30, 2024
Rebounds
My seminary professor, Ralph Klein, used to tell us often that in ministry we would fail. How is that for a pep talk? It’s part of the call, and part of life he would tell us. And then he would go on to correlate, ministry to basketball. “But you know, I don’t care how many shots you miss, I care how you are able to rebound. This is where you learn and grow. Rebounds are what win basketball games.”
We have been privileged in this past week to watch some tremendous basketball games with our very own Timberwolves in the Western Conference Finals. And yes, it was disappointing that they lost the first three games. However, the games have been close, and they are playing exceedingly well. Both teams have showcased their skills. They have also missed plenty of shots. Main players have been injured or have fouled out. Some have struggled to make shots and get their head in the game. But in the end, all of the games have been filled with great rebounds. Tuesday Night, the Timberwolves probably won because of their ability to rebound, and of course their great three-point shots. There is beauty in watching the play. No one is in it for themselves. They pass the ball even when they have a shot because someone else has a better one. In their best moments they are communicating well and are there for their team members. They also are not quitting when they miss a shot, or when they fall down, or when they foul. They keep going, keep playing.
My husband has been a Timberwolves fan for years. Even through their long losing streak. I will confess, I don’t usually watch. This current team is a great team of athletes. They are also young. Their star player is only 22 years old! You can tell they are younger than the Mavericks. They are still working on how to get it together in the finals. And they are learning and growing so much! As hard as I am sure it was to lose the first three games, these games were opportunities to learn and grow. They had to try new things and not rely on the same strategies. In the end these losses will make them better than if they just won.
This is true for us too. We learn most by our failures. We grow the most when things are hard. There is a reason, Professor Klein emphasized rebounding, because he knew that this is one form of resurrection. This is where God does God’s best work. In rebuilding, in making a new way, in building up what is broken down. Where have you felt God’s hand in your failures? How have you learned through rebounds? Remember, you have the greatest fan in the stands, who will be there to support you no matter what- win or lose, and who will be there to cheer the loudest when you rebound.
Blessings,
Pastor Joanna Mitchell
May 23, 2024
Neighboring Practices
Jeremiah 6:16 This is what the LORD says: “Stand at the crossroads and look; ask for the ancient paths, ask where the good way is, and walk in it…
We have lived in our house for nearly 22 years and have been members of Grace almost that long. I can’t even begin to count how many trips to church I have made in the last 2 decades. Here’s a thing about those many trips I have made, 100% of them have been made in our cars, either driving myself or riding along. (A few bike trips are in the total.) Too many of the trips have been rushed, trying to get there just in time for something, feeling frustrated when I get a red left turn arrow! Most of the time, I quickly park my car and head into church at my quickest pace. I wonder if anyone else ever squeals into the parking lot and rushes into the building.
Neighboring Practices has led me to ponder some of my own behaviors in relationship to Grace and the surrounding neighborhood. Quite by accident, I came across a little film called Godspeed. (https://www.livegodspeed.org/watchgodspeed-cover). It has triggered some observations for me that I will attempt to share. First, Jesus didn’t have a car. We are a culture of cars. We go fast and we go often. The people who share our road are barely seen, let alone acknowledged. Jesus walked. Let that sink in. What was his pace, I wonder? When one walks and shares a path, one tends to see the other people on the path. Did Jesus smile and say hello to his neighbors? He probably knew most of them by name and they knew him. Where humans live in a walking culture, are they always in a hurry? Are they aware of their surroundings as they walk? I doubt that Jesus and his neighbors ever walked to get their steps in or to get their heart rates up. Instead, they probably walked in rhythm with their daily tasks, and likely had enough time to stop and talk to their neighbors.
Another thing I ponder is sound. The corner of Round Lake and Bunker Lake Boulevards is a busy, noisy place. There is a constant hum of traffic with frequent high decibel mufflers and sirens. All of the hum, mufflers and sirens, are signs of the life stories that move through the intersection at any given time. In Jesus’ time, he didn’t hear the sounds we hear. When he walked, he didn’t use earbuds to diminish the sounds of his neighborhood. I imagine he heard the sounds of conversation, laughter, singing, babies crying, children playing, birds, animals, raindrops, wind in the trees or grasses, his own footsteps on the path. These are sounds of people doing life 2000 years ago. Those same sounds still exist, but it takes a different mindset to really hear them. The traffic certainly provides the sound of people doing life in 2024, and in its way, it speaks of God’s blessings, so we give thanks for the life we have. Still, I wonder if there’s a way to train my ears to hear more of the sounds that Jesus might have heard, the sounds of life that are really more intimate and authentic.
As I ponder the life of Jesus, the actual day-to-day life, I wonder what I can do to invite Jesus’ reality into my own culture and behaviors. I will still drive my car to church each time I go. But could I get out of the car and take a minute to observe my surroundings? Could I open my eyes a little bit more and observe the church in its place, the human beings coming and going? Could I learn more people’s names? What, I wonder, does Jesus see and hear as he moves through this neighborhood, and could I be open to sharing his view?
“Stand at the crossroads and look; ask for the ancient paths, ask where the good way is, and walk in it…
Let it be so. -Anne Weikle, FPNP Team Member
May 23, 2024
Faith Practices and Neighboring Practices Summer of Listening: Neighborhood Listening Project
This past weekend, Grace’s Faith Practices and Neighboring Practices attended a learning retreat with the Minneapolis Area Synod. This retreat solidified many of our learnings so far and invited us into a Summer of Listening with our Neighborhood Listening Project. This is an invitation not just for our team but for our entire congregation. How do we listen to God? How do we listen to one another? How do we listen to our neighbors?
This summer we are committed to continuing our daily spiritual prayer practices. I wonder if any of you might try a prayer practice this summer? Remembering this can look like any time spent God-ward. Also, that new habits and practices stick when they are obvious, attractive, easy and satisfying. So, can you combine your prayer time with your morning coffee routine that is obvious, easy and satisfying? Or maybe reflecting how you experienced God in your day while turning down your bed and brushing your teeth? Spend this time listening to and for God.
We are also committed to listening to each other and our neighbors through our Neighborhood Listening Project. Join us for neighborhood walks and community events throughout the summer and our Grand Opening this fall (details to come soon). Our goal, wherever we show up, is to listen. Introduce yourself to someone new. Ask them what brought them to the event? How long they have lived in the community? What brought them to the community? What do they love? What changes have they seen? What excites them? Take note of what you hear and give thanks for the encounter. What we hear will help us be better neighbors!
Check out the Faith Practices and Neighboring Practices Calendar of Events Poster in the Narthex for new dates and ways to get involved. Our first summer neighborhood walk is Sunday, June 9 after worship (11:30 am). Our first summer neighborhood event is a show up and spend event attending the Farmer’s Market now at Riverdale Church June 4th at 2:00pm meet at Grace and we will go down together!
Blessings,
Pastor Maria Markman
May 16, 2024
First Impressions
Things are getting close to finished at the church, but we are in the “already and not yet” part of the building project. For example: We are “already” back in the Sanctuary for Worship (Thanks be to God!) but the light coves are “not yet” complete. The daycare addition “already” has its carpet put in, but the doors have “not yet” arrived. I will confess this is the stage where I start to immediately react. “Wait why doesn’t this look like I thought it would?” “How are we tying in that color?” One of the members of our building task force is an interior designer. She keeps reminding me to be patient. I’ll call her panicked about something. “Give it time. It’s not done yet. We can tie things in later.” It’s a good reminder for me to not just react and overdo, something that I am bad at. I am good at reacting and over-doing. But I will also confess, I have reached a point of decision-making fatigue. It turns out that I am a pastor and not an interior designer for a reason. I don’t have huge opinions about carpet other than I want it to match and look good.
One of my favorite things has been seeing people’s reaction to our kitchen. They often squeal in delight: “it’s so pretty!” And it is. But at the same time, the water is not hot in one sink, and we are missing some cabinets. Once again, “Already,” and “Not yet.”
I invite you to follow the advice that I have been given, “Take some time. Don’t react quickly but allow yourself a chance to get used to things.” Please recognize that it’s not finished yet. Also, please know how hard people are working and thank them for all of the moving and changes they have made. I have an incredible team of people who are working so hard, both staff and volunteers to make our church a place of welcome where we can worship God together.
Blessings,
Pastor Joanna Mitchell
May 9, 2024
A Thank you from Kris Miller
Thank you, thank you! Words cannot express my gratitude to everyone who helped me celebrate my retirement on Sunday, April 28th at Grace. It was such a special day for me and my family, thanks to all of you. Thank you to the team who planned and planned to make this happen, and then had to switch gears due to construction. Thanks to Nancy Jenkins, Sue Melody, Judi Wold, Anne Marie Johnson, Sally McPhillips and Susie Wells. Thank you also to Angie Hanson for the video, and everyone else who helped in so many ways to make this day so special for me. Thanks to our staff, past and present, who have loved, cared for and supported me through many changes, and in good times and bad. Thanks to all of my friends and volunteers who have been a constant in my life here at Grace. I am so blessed!
Thank you so, so much to all who gave monetary gifts in my honor. I am overwhelmed by your generosity. We plan to use the money towards upgrading the heat at our cabin. More blessings!
It has been my pleasure and honor to be a part of this staff for so many years. I am so thankful for the love and support I have always received from this wonderful Grace congregation and am so thankful to be a part of this ministry. This isn’t goodbye, Grace will always be our church home.
Love,
Kris Miller
May 2, 2024
Elections and Prayers
Starting this evening, a small group of us are going to our Synod Assembly, which is our annual church conference. At this 3-day meeting, we will be electing a new Bishop through an ecclesiastical ballot. You might be wondering, “what in the world does that mean?” It means that we take seriously the work of the Spirit. There have been 10 people nominated for this position and tonight we will cast our first ballot. Each round the nominees will have an opportunity to present, share about themselves, and their vision. After which we will pray and vote. I go into this election not knowing who I plan to vote for. I have people I definitely like, but I am trusting in the Spirit to guide me and our entire group in finding the best next bishop.
It’s unfortunate that more elections aren’t like this. Steeped in prayer with an openness to listen. We come in with candidates and parties alignments and preconceived notions of who is right. But might we do this different, if we really listened and allowed prayer to guide us.
On Sunday, we will be voting on our next Vision Member Candidates. Once again, we have an incredible pool of willing and gifted leaders. I would be excited to have any of them join our team. I hope that as you read through their bios that you pray about who God is leading us to have on Vision Board. Our Nominating Team does a great job of considering diversity of voices, experiences and participation in the life of Grace. Bringing candidates that go to different worship services and are differing age ranges and both new and old to Grace Lutheran. It is this diversity of voices that strengthens us as a church and helps us continue to think beyond what we are currently doing and look to the future with vision and excitement. I invite you to pray for our nominees, and please come and vote on Sunday. Please remain open to the Spirit that God might lead us and our church through our Vision Board and of course, through all of you!
Blessings,
Pastor Joanna Mitchell
April 25, 2024
Celebrating through the Mess
Yesterday, I lamented that we hadn’t anticipated for Kris Miller’s retirement celebration Sunday to happen while we worshipped in the fellowship hall. The person I was talking to responded: “this is how things go at Grace and Kris Miller knows it.” I had to smile, yes of course she does. That’s what makes it so hard because I would love for once there not to be chaos and just celebration. But then I forget that’s never how it is. The Gospel always has tension; there is always chaos and confusion, even a mess and yet God shows up and lights the way. God brings peace, and love and shows us a new way. So of course this is how it will go. It’s actually where God works best, in the mess.
That being said, we could use your help this Sunday. We are still in the Fellowship Hall and probably will be until mid-May. There is too much dust and disorder in the sanctuary. The pews are not even bolted down on the sides. We hope to have a big crowd this Sunday to celebrate Kris. When you arrive, if you are able to move down the rows toward the exterior walls of the fellowship hall that would help us make room for everyone. We will have about 10 choir chairs with arms, these are brought in for anyone who needs a little more help getting up and down. Please reserve chairs with arms for our seniors and people who cannot stand as long or are not as mobile. And finally, please be patient. Our fellowship area is now a hallway. We have had a party team who has worked hard for this event and have planned so well. If you need to leave after worship, please feel free to take care of yourself and your plans, and also, leave space for others to get through and do what they need to do. I know you all know this, but it is just a gentle reminder because there is a lot happening this weekend. There is a lot happening at Grace and so I hope we can move with grace for each other and love in the midst of the mess.
Photo above is our Senior “Choir” presenting a gift to Kris in thanksgiving for her ministry and her love and care.
Blessings,
Pastor Joanna Mitchell
April 18, 2024
Construction and Dust and Rain, Oh My!
Yesterday was a long, hard day at Grace Lutheran. After last Sunday’s worship in the sanctuary with the drywall dust all over, our staff made the decision to move our Wednesday and Sunday worship to the Fellowship Hall for a while. The dust in the air and all over the sanctuary is making it hard to breath, let alone sing and preach in there. For the safety of all of you and our staff, worshipping in the Fellowship Hall feels like the best option. But as you know our Fellowship Hall is currently our Nursery and our Toddler Room and so we were busy strategizing for how to do this. Nothing is as simple as I hope it will be. I am so thankful for the flexibility of my team and all of our volunteers who help out in SO MANY WAYS! Then of course came the rain, which was a lot, but made even worse with literal holes in our roof over our women’s bathroom and mechanical room. Our site manager, Eric worked hard to remedy the problem, and many offered to help as well. I am grateful. The good news is all of the areas affected by the rain are going away with our new construction and so while yes, our carpet got wet in the hallway, it will be replaced. It will be fine. For now, it has just been a little more challenging.
I am so thankful for your continued flexibility, your support, and for all the hard work that everyone is doing to get us through this project. You all are amazing. Thank you! I know worshipping in the Fellowship Hall is not ideal, and yet, it will be fine. We can do hard things, and this too shall pass.
Blessings,
Pastor Joanna Mitchell
April 11, 2024
It’s time to celebrate!
I have mixed feelings as I write these words, but I do think it’s true. On April 28th, we are celebrating Kris Miller’s retirement. She will still be working at Grace till the end of May, but we wanted a day that was all about Kris.
I don’t have to tell you how extraordinary Kris is; you all have your own stories. You have experienced her pastoral care, compassion, her attention to detail. She knows you and she loves you all. I know this because every time someone moves away or finds another church, Kris mourns. Every time someone from Grace is going through a difficulty, she worries, checks in and prays. She believes in the ministry of Grace and she lives it out. I could go on and on. And I probably will on April 28th.
For now, I want to give you an opportunity to say thank you to Kris. Come join us for worship. Following each service we will have a reception time. Also, we are inviting people who would like to contribute money to a gift for Kris. Kris and Doug bought a cabin a few years ago and I know they have things they would like for cabin life. If you would like to make a donation to this fund, please mark your check: Kris Miller’s gift, or give through miscellaneous on realm and in the memo indicate Kris Miller’s gift.
Click here to access realm.
Please join us for this important day. If there was ever anyone worth celebrating at Grace it is our beloved Kris Miller!
Blessings,
Pastor Joanna Mitchell
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March 27, 2024
HOLY WEEK
This week is Holy Week, the week where we remember and travel with Jesus, to the last supper with his friends and followers, to the garden to pray, and where he will also be betrayed. We will journey with Jesus through his arrest, trial, and his death on the cross. We will also celebrate the joy of the resurrection. We will do this here at Grace Lutheran Church and Christians around the globe will celebrate as well. Here is a message from the ELCA’s Presiding Bishop, Elizabeth Eaton.
Please join us for our services this week. And if you know of anyone searching for a place to be this Easter, invite them to worship with us!
-Pastor Maria and Pastor Joanna
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March 13, 2024
Friends of Grace,
My wedding anniversary is this weekend. Jeff and I will have been married 23 years (photo below, before we were married). I know this pales in comparison to those of you who have been married for 50 or 60 years. As I think about how we have transformed over time, I give thanks. Our partnership has morphed. There was a time that I made dinner, now he does. There was a time when he commuted, now I do. There was a time when kids dominated our lives, now they check in with us now and then (well, it’s more than that, but the intensity has definitely changed).
I recognize that I have been given many partners in my life. I am so thankful. I am thankful to have Pastor Maria as a partner in ministry. Our relationship has changed throughout time too- I was once her pastor (photo above of Maria and me in Faribault, we are the ones on the right.) and now we are colleagues. I also have wonderful friends who have been spiritual partners or swimming partners. I have had running and walking partners. It’s too bad in some ways that we really only celebrate anniversaries of things like marriage, because these partnerships are very important.
God is clear that partnership and companionship are essential to our well-being. In Genesis 2:18 states: “It is not good for the human one to be alone, I will make him a helper as a partner.” Of course, we often go on to seeing this passage as a description for marriage, and yet, it is clear, that God is about relationship. God is after all, a relationship onto themselves as the Trinity: Creator, Son and Holy Spirit. God gives people partners to live with, learn from, and grow alongside. Ruth had Naomi, Paul had Silas and Timothy, Jesus had the disciples. Who are the partners that you give thanks for today? How have they helped you learn and grow in faith and life? How can you celebrate them and the partnership you share.
Blessings,
Pastor Joanna Mitchell
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February 8, 2024
Holding Down The Fort
Friends of Grace,
It’s been an interesting week at Grace Lutheran. Pastor Maria left Tuesday early in the morning for Belize (they all arrived safely!). Marie Kolar is out on medical leave since she slipped on the ice, and Tracie Russell, our church administrator had her appendix removed. David’s been away for a learning workshop in the afternoons and I am scheduled for my first colonoscopy on Friday so I will be out of the office on Thursday.
On the one hand, we are down to bare bones staff, on the other hand, it has been quiet enough for Kris Miller to turn on the radio for background noise (truthfully the construction project is providing plenty of noise, but the music is nice).
This isn’t the first time we have had a minimal staff here at Grace. In fact, if I have learned anything in my time here, it is not to panic, God will provide. And God has. We’ve had extra volunteers come in to help out, and because it’s been quiet enough, rooms are being packed up in preparation for our kitchen remodel. Others have called and asked “what can I do?”. Many have prayed for us as well.
I have an amazing staff. They work so hard and give so much of themselves. My hope and prayer is that everyone can take the time they need to rest and recuperate. If you notice we are a little slower at responding than usual please know we are busy holding down the fort (clearly (see photo above), and have faith that God will see us through. Please join me in praying for Tracie’s recovery and her family, for Marie’s recovery and her family, for safe travels for Pastor Marie and a good results from my procedure on Friday. It’s going to be a load of fun (haha).
Blessings,
Pastor Joanna
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January 24, 2024
Voting Members for Synod Assembly
Our congregational meeting that happens on February 4th has two main components. First is voting on our 2024 budget, a very important part of our life together. The second is to elect voting members for our Synod Assembly. More details are provided below.
The Synod Assembly is where we do the work of the greater church. If you have ever been curious about what is happening with other Lutheran Church in our area, this is a great time to connect with other Lutherans and also to learn. But more importantly this year is a bishops election. A bishop’s election only happens every 6 years. Since our Bishop Ann Svennugsen has just completed her second term, we will be electing a new bishop. It is an exciting time to be the church and to be a part of the wider church body.
In February, we will gather at Conference assemblies (see below for details) where nominations can be put forth. After this event, nominees have a chance to withdraw their names, or go forward. Then we will have the opportunity to meet nominees and hear their hopes and dreams for the church moving forward.
Finally, in May we will gather and together we will worship, and pray and vote for a new Bishop for our synod. It usually takes a few ballots, lots of good discussion and is a great opportunity to get involved.
Both Pastor Maria and I will be in attendance. We also get to bring 3 adult voting members and 1 youth voting member. If you are interested in attending, please contact me as soon as you can. We do need to have names as soon as possible.
Blessings,
Pastor Joanna Mitchell
January 18, 2024
Financials, Budgets, Oh My! And a Story of Grace
We started 2023 with a stretch budget. We knew that our budgeted income might be a high and yet, we moved forward in faith, trusting in God’s abundance and generosity to lead the way. 2023 was our first year, since the pandemic without a governmental grant supplementing our income. Nevertheless, we ended the year strong and we are so, so grateful. Because of the mindful stewardship of our staff, our expenses stayed low. Because of your generosity and support, our income was steady. We were able to put additional money into capital savings for our building project, as well as fulfill our benevolence promises. Thank you!
Last night at our Vision Board meeting, the Board approved the 2024 budget that we will vote on at the Congregational meeting on February 4th. If your eyes glaze over at the thought of a budget, you are not alone. The good news is we have a terrific financial team who has worked and looked over all the components of the budget as well as the faithful work of our church administrator, Tracie Russell. I want you to know that we welcome your questions on the budget.
I will confess that at times, I worry. I spend time looking at numbers and the amount of money we have, and also at the expenses of running a vibrant church like Grace along with the building project. There are times that I get overwhelmed. But over and over again, I have learned to trust in God’s provision. God has given us the right people to lead this church both on staff and on our Vision Board and in other significant positions. God continues to inspire, and generously provide. Thank you for the love, support, faithfulness and generosity that you provide at Grace, it has made a difference and allowed the important work of Grace to happen.
One quick story before I conclude: I was able recently to give a financial gift to a young person who has had a hard life and was struggling financially. She kept hugging and crying as I gave her the check telling me that this is the first time that she has felt cared for like this. She has never experienced compassion and people willing to give and help. I repeatedly told that I was just the messenger, that it is the people of Grace who made this possible. She stated: I’ve never been in a place like this. This my friends is the glimpse of God’s kingdom coming to light in our world, generous love that allows God’s light and God’s provision to come through. Thanks be to God, it is always about more than numbers. It is about faithfulness and love transforming hearts, and lives.
Blessings,
Pastor Joanna Mitchell
January 11, 2024
Moving
Things are moving at Grace Lutheran Church. Construction is underway, our programming is up and running once again after winter break, and every day I walk into the building and I am informed of a next step in construction. This next step usually means that we need to move things- clear out the mechnanical room, get ready for our toddler room and nursery to be no longer accessible. As much as it’s a bit of a pain, I will confess that I kind of like it. It’s a little bit like solving a daily puzzle. Where can we put this stuff, what can be thrown away. It has definitely forced us to clean house and prioritize.
In many ways, I think opportunities like this are good for the soul and also for someone’s environment. Just yesterday we found multiple “bad remotes” from 2012. They haven’t been touched or used in over 10 years, it’s time to throw them out. I wonder, how often we take the time to look into the dark places of our life, be it our real closets or basements, or the forgotten places in our soul. what might we clean out in order to start fresh and new. Are there things that you have been holding onto too long that are bad for you? Could you let them go, lighten your load a little bit, and give space for something new?
I do ask for your patience and flexibility as we move forward. We are losing some of our large group spaces in the near future as the daycare spaces are taken away. Remember this is all temporary and the end result is that we will have better space in the future. In the meantime, I give thanks for all who have helped move and discard old items, as well as everyone who has had to find new ways to share and use the space here at Grace. Thanks for moving into the future with us!
Blessings,
Pastor Joanna Mitchell
January 4, 2024
It Takes A Village
It has been a busy week at Grace Lutheran Church. Not only have we just finished the Christmas Season and are in the process of putting everything away, but we are hosting the funeral for Major Jeffrey Hoernemann today. It is such a tragic loss and a privilege to be able to provide care and hospitality to his family and friends. It is also a big undertaking especially now that our building project is underway.
And yet, I am so moved by the people who keep showing up. The hard work of our volunteers and our staff is remarkable. People of all ages have helped from rolling silverware, to taking down trees, to setting up tables, to providing bars and being willing to usher or help in the parking lot. I am so grateful for all of the people who have given time; sharing both their problem solving skills along with muscle power to get ready for today.
When I think about what the church looks like in it’s best moments- it is this: working alongside one another in faith and love; holding each other in comfort and compassion, all the while reminding one another of God’s promises and God’s presence.
Thank you for being church together. It truly takes a village for this community to do the work God has called and invited us to do!
Blessings,
Pastor Joanna Mitchell
