Pat (far right) with her daughters

Ms. Derry brings a wealth of experience to her work with us.  Having received a Master of Religious Education from Luther Seminary in 1995, Pat has served as director of faith formation for children in several congregations in the Twin Cities, as well as in Norway, where she is currently serving.  Pat describes the joy she experiences in “witnessing the growth of my maturing children, in experiencing the peace of forgiveness, and in treasuring the deep fulfillment of creating time and space for children to be excited about God.” 

During our conversations with Pat, our Transition Team recognized her gifts in organization and creativity, as well as her high level of enthusiasm. She excels in building team leadership and in developing connections with children, parents, volunteers, and other adults.  She is very excited about returning to the Twin Cities, getting to know our congregation, and sharing her gifts with us.  We love the joy she expresses about the work to which God has called her.

We are eager to have Pat join our staff in August.  We will need to offer her much support as she begins this fall.  Details regarding her installation will be forthcoming.  The Transition Team will continue to work with her during the first year of her time with us as she becomes established in her ministry here. Please look for opportunities to get to know her, and to join her in working for the children and families of our congregation. 

Meanwhile, please give thanks to Sara Kopka as she prepares to leave Gloria Dei after her time with us as Interserve Ministries’ interim children’s ministry staff.  Sara’s leadership has been an incredible gift to our congregation during this transition, and she leaves us with new understandings of how best to meet the needs of this faith community.  Sara and Pat will work together for the first two weeks of August to help ensure a smooth transition in their ministries.

We give thanks to God for the gifts each of these wonderful staff members brings to our congregation!  Thanks be to God!