[July 07, 2007]  OAKLAND -- Recent LCC graduate Kari Otto is the new youth minister at Oakland Christian Church in Oakland, where she will lead programs for fifth-graders through seniors.

"God has really given me a big heart for working with kids this age," Otto said. "I am really excited to be here, and I am excited to see what God has in store for us this year."

Otto graduated from Lincoln Christian College in May, earning a bachelor's degree in general ministry, with a focus in youth ministry.

She began her work in the ministry by serving as youth sponsor at her home church, Ramsey Christian Church, from June 2002 to August 2006.

In the summer of 2006, she served on Lincoln Christian College's camp team, which included representing LCC at a variety of church camps and serving as a camp counselor.

Since August 2006, she had been a youth ministry intern at Smyser Christian Church in Gays, where she led children's church and Sunday school; led youth groups for junior high and high school; assisted with a variety of ministries; helped coordinate an Easter drama production; and assisted with the planning of summer trips, including a Christ in Youth summer conference and a mission trip to New Orleans.

"I have been blessed to spend this past year at Smyser," Otto said. "Working with their youth minister, Vickey Hostetter, has been great. She has taught me a lot about doing youth ministry, and I am looking forward [to] putting what I have learned into practice."

Ed Bacon, minister at Oakland Christian Church, said Otto will be a great addition to the church and the community. Bacon is also an LCC alumnus, as well as a former adjunct professor and head soccer coach at LCC.

"Kari has a passionate heart for youth ministry," Bacon said. "She's a small-town girl and will be a great fit here in Oakland."

More information about Oakland Christian Church is available online at www.oaklandchristianchurch.org.

July events at St. Peter Lutheran Church, Emden       Send a link to a friend

[June 23, 2007]  EMDEN -- St. Peter Lutheran Church has released its July calendar. Click here.

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