My name is Gabby Shank and I am the Children's Ministry Director at Bexley United Methodist Church. My mom, dad, and younger brother live in southeast Ohio with our 10 month old puppy, Fancy. During the school year, I live on campus at Ohio Dominican University in Columbus where I major in psychology and educational studies. When I occasionally come across some free time, I enjoy taking care of my collection of plants, knitting, crocheting, and reading.

Hello! I am Anne Schaefer, the Associate Pastor of Elk River Lutheran Church in Elk River, MN. This is my first call as a pastor, but I’ve been in ministry in a variety of ways for almost 20 years. My husband and I have three kids, but we’re entering our empty nest era as our youngest just graduated from high school and is heading off to college in August. We enjoy cards and board games, live music, good food, and trying new things. Looking forward to meeting everyone!

My name is Jason Fugate and I am the pastor at Gloria Dei Lutheran Church in Crestview Hills, KY. Before becoming the solo pastor, I was the associate pastor for children, youth, and family ministries. My parents and brother live in Carmel, IN where my father is also a pastor. Most of my free time is spent watching movies, hanging out with my friends, and going to Cincinnati Reds games.

My name is Will Weikle, and I am the director of Children, Youth and Family at Grace Lutheran Church. This is the congregation that I grew up in, ever since I was 4 years old. Both my parents attend Grace as well, and support CYF ministries with countless volunteer hours! I also continue to feel the lasting love and support from my late younger brother, Matthew. I love going on adventures with friends and family, such as climbing on the rocks along the North Shore! 

My name is Luke Harris-Ferree (they/he) and I'm the Pastor at Grace Lutheran Church in Evanston, IL. My spouse, Kate, and I have two little ones, Elijah Grace (EG)- 3.5 years old and Ezra- 1 year old! There is rarely a dull moment in our house. I enjoy good naps while watching horrible reality TV, but when the kids need to get some energy out, we like to ride bikes, go to the pool, and explore a good park. 

My name is Paul Goodman and I'm the Director of Youth and Family Ministry at Hope Lutheran Church in Bozeman, MT. I've worked in youth ministry for just under 21 years and have been at Hope for more than 15 years. I live with my wife, Heidi, and my 14 year old daughter, Emma. We all love outdoor adventures, travel, and attending live music and sporting events. We also love hiking in National Parks. I read a lot and enjoy playing pinball wherever I can find a machine. I am an expert in working with 6th-12th grade and I am hopeful that this cohort will help to enhance and strengthen my skills especially focused on the faith formation of our youngest members of our community. 

Pastor Dan’s journey in ministry has taken him from congregations across the Midwest to serving as Assistant to the Bishop of the Indiana-Kentucky Synod (ELCA). Along the way, he’s developed a deep passion for helping others grow closer to God and one another.

With a degree in Social Work from Capital University, a Master of Divinity from Trinity Lutheran Seminary, and a Doctor of Ministry in transformational leadership from Ashland Theological Seminary, he loves learning about faith and community and finding ways to put those ideas to action. As the former Chair of the ELCA Network for Children, Youth, and Family Ministry, Pastor Dan has been actively shaping how churches engage with and support families and young people.

When not at church, you might find Pastor Dan with his wife Karen (a local teacher), their two adult sons, Jason and Brent, or their two dogs. He’s always ready to chat about faith and how we can grow together in love and service.

My name is Amanda Rackley and I am the Pastor of Discipleship at Spring Hill UMC in Lillington, North Carolina. I serve alongside my husband, who is the Lead Pastor. We met at Duke and have served in three churches together during our ministry so far. I worked as an elementary music teacher before going to seminary, and have since served in churches as the Minister of Music, Children's Minister, and have worked as a Chaplain. I have three boys - ages 4, 6, and 8 - and we homeschool them. We have a crazy schnauzer named Bruno, and our family goes to Disney every chance we get! We are obsessed with all things LEGO, Star Wars, Harry Potter, and Disney!