Kristen Koch
Florissant,MO
Summary
Accomplished Pastor with a proven track record at Shepherd of the Hills Lutheran Church, enhancing congregational engagement and fostering multicultural inclusivity, including welcoming immigrants and refugees. International experience teaching English as a Second Language in Tanzania, East Africa. Skilled in public speaking and relationship building, I've effectively mentored youth and spearheaded community initiatives, significantly enriching worship experiences and church-community relations. Experienced in event planning as well as working with volunteers. Value compassion, curiosity, and mutuality.
Overview
26
26
years of professional experience
Work History
Pastor
Shepherd of the Hills Lutheran Church
10.2012 - Current
- Provided pastoral care to individuals in need, offering counseling, guidance, and support during difficult times.
- Officiated special services such as weddings, funerals, baptisms, and nursing home services.
- Planned and conducted worship services, wrote sermons, and worked with key church leaders to carry out church mission.
- Fostered a welcoming environment for newcomers by creating an inclusive culture within the church community.
- Mentored youth group members, offering guidance and support in their personal and spiritual lives.
- Designed innovative worship experiences that integrated contemporary elements alongside traditional practices.
- Developed strong partnerships with local organizations to promote collaboration on various community initiatives.
- Championed diversity within the church body by promoting inclusivity across all aspects of ministry life.
- Raised congregational awareness of needs and contributions of youth to church life and operations.
Pastor
Lutheran Church Of The Atonement
04.2009 - 09.2012
- Provided pastoral care to congregants through one-on-one counseling sessions, addressing their spiritual and emotional needs.
- Supported congregants during life transitions like marriage, baptism, or funerals through personalized pastoral services.
- Delivered thought-provoking sermons that encouraged congregants to challenge their beliefs and grow spiritually.
- Evaluated existing programs for effectiveness, making recommendations for improvements that better met the needs of congregants.
- Offered support to families experiencing difficulties, connecting them with appropriate resources within the congregation or broader community.
- Helped to create welcoming environment for visitors and encouraged congregation to offer support.
- Led programs such as worship, study, fellowship, and service opportunities.
- Raised congregational awareness of needs and contributions of youth to church life and operations.
Interim Pastor
Christ the King Lutheran Church
02.2008 - 03.2009
- Provided pastoral care to individuals in need, offering counseling, guidance, and support during difficult times.
- Officiated special services such as weddings, funerals, baptisms, and nursing home services.
- Helped to create welcoming environment for visitors and encouraged congregation to offer support.
- Upheld church governance structure by effectively managing staff and volunteer teams while ensuring adherence to established policies and procedures.
- Enhanced congregational engagement with thought-provoking sermons, drawing on contemporary issues and theological insights.
- Raised congregational awareness of needs and contributions of youth to church life and operations.
- Enhanced congregation''s spiritual growth by delivering thought-provoking and engaging sermons.
- Oversaw administration and management of all areas of ministry.
ESL Teacher
ELCA Division for Global Mission
07.1998 - 04.1999
- Educated students in basics of English grammar and conversational speaking.
- Enhanced students' speaking skills through regular practice and focused feedback during conversation sessions.
- Increased student proficiency in English by creating engaging and interactive classroom activities.
- Developed a welcoming classroom environment that encouraged cultural exchange between students from diverse backgrounds, fostering mutual understanding and respect among classmates.
Education
Master of Arts - Master of Divinity (MDiv)
Lutheran School of Theology At Chicago
Chicago, IL05.2003
Bachelor of Arts - Music And Religion
DePauw University
Greencastle, IN05.1995
Skills
- Public Speaking
- Event Planning
- Multicultural Sensitivity
- Teamwork and Collaboration
- Relationship Building
- Organizational Skills
Relevant Professional Experience
Co-Dean of Eastern Missouri Conference of the Central States Synod, Evangelical Lutheran Church in America
Timeline
Pastor
Shepherd of the Hills Lutheran Church
10.2012 - Current
Pastor
Lutheran Church Of The Atonement
04.2009 - 09.2012
Interim Pastor
Christ the King Lutheran Church
02.2008 - 03.2009
ESL Teacher
ELCA Division for Global Mission
07.1998 - 04.1999
Master of Arts - Master of Divinity (MDiv)
Lutheran School of Theology At Chicago
Bachelor of Arts - Music And Religion
DePauw University
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