Karen joined the Ohio District staff 20+ years ago as the Youth Ministry Coordinator. This position is half time. She serves the Ohio District as well as St. John Lutheran Church in Garfield Heights. At St. John she serves as the DCE. The combined position certainly helps in giving support to congregations of the Ohio District in the areas of youth and family ministry. Karen has her B.A. from Concordia Chicago, majoring in education with a concentration in youth ministry.

Areas that Karen helps and supports the congregations of the Ohio District are:

• Starting or revitalizing congregational youth ministry
• Calling a DCE or DFLM
• Provides support and supervision of called DCEs and DFLMs in the District
• Organizes and supervises the Ohio District Youth Ministry Team.
• Coordinates and organizes all activities associated with the Ohio District Junior & Senior High Youth Gatherings.
• Coordinates and organizes all activities associated with the Ohio District participation in the LCMS National Youth Gathering.
• Coordinates and Assists with youth leadership training
• Works with the Concordia Center for the Family to support for Family Life in a congregation