Prior Lake Lead Campus Pastor
Shakopee Lead Campus Pastor
High School Pastor
Worship Pastor
Care Pastor
Middle School Pastor
Family Ministry Pastor
The trustees are responsible for the property and business affairs of Friendship Church.
Chair
Vice Chair
Nominating Committee Chair
Member at Large
Calling Team Chair
Treasurer
Secretary
The Elders are responsible for overseeing items relating to the spiritual health of Friendship Church and its members, the teachings and activities of church ministries, and doctrinal issues in accordance with the Scriptures.
Prior Lake Lead Campus Pastor
Shakopee Lead Campus Pastor
Elder Board Chair
Lay Elder
Lay Elder
Lay Elder
The Ministry Team is responsible for directing the day to day operation and ministry of Friendship Church.
Prior Lake Lead Campus Pastor
Shakopee Lead Campus Pastor
Executive Director
Worship Pastor
Care Pastor
IT Director
Communications Director
Family Ministry Pastor
Facilites Director
Connections Director
I'm excited about the rotation curriculum which teaches God's Word in ways that children of all learning styles can comprehend.
VBS is spectacular, I always look forward to it each year!!!
"Suffer the little children to come onto me and forbid them not, for such is the kingdom of God" — Mark 10:14
This is the verse that I would say drives me to reach the children for Jesus. When I was in junior high I went through the Child Evangelism training program and lead back yard bible clubs, and this verse was so important to me. I could see Jesus working in those little lives!! And my heart went out the children, I believe Jesus wants us to lead them to Christ!! Jesus showed us that they are important, and we need to treat them just as Jesus did.
I am inspired by the increasing number of children that are coming to hear about Jesus while learning from dedicated teachers and engaging curriculum! I love watching the kids come each week and their excitement to get to class. Seeing parents getting involved with their children's programs and seeing 2 - 4 year olds listening intently to a story or jumping up and down, singing praises!
Boundaries With Kids by Dr. Henry Cloud and Dr. John Townsend.
"Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of God belongs to such as these. I tell you the truth, anyone who will not receive the kingdom of God like a little child will never enter it." — Mark 10:13-15
This verse reminds me how much Jesus values our precious children. We can learn so much from them about faith and hope. They see Jesus in the simple joys of life.
What is your fondest memory?
Some of my fondest memories are at the cabin every summer with my family and grandparents! I enjoyed fishing and relaxing out on the lake and just being out in the wilderness.
What did you want to be when you grew up?
I wanted to be a doctor. But now that I figured out it was too much school, I decided to be a paramedic instead.
What was your last purchase?
Besides gas? A stethoscope.
If you could have lunch with a famous person, who would it be and why?
Leslie Frazier, because he has integrity, and is a great leader in many different aspects of his life. (spiritual, football, family, etc.).
Besides Jesus, who is your favorite person in the Bible and why?
David because even though he was faced with battling a giant, he trusted God to defeat him. This is a reminder to trust in the Lord when I'm faced with an impossible battle. A close second is Daniel, just for his faithfulness to Christ and everyone else he served.
Monica is married to Lee and they have two young adult children. They started attending Friendship Church over 15 years ago.
I would travel around the world, seeing lots of different cultures and experiencing the real world (instead of just my version of it per my limited view of the world).
Letting God be in charge. I am Type A, and God gave me gifts of leadership and administration. It is easy for me to start taking action and expect God to follow. As I have matured, I now try to remember to turn to God first, then take action according to his will.
Joseph. He was definitely a "glass half full" type of person which I admire and always strive to be as well. He persevered through adversity and trusted God with his life. I love how he forgave his brothers so easily.
Someone who knows they don't know it all and surrounds themselves with diverse people to build a great team. A true leader is someone who people want to follow, and not necessarily someone who wants to be followed.
Life is much better when I trust him to lead me, instead of me trying to be in charge. Plus life is more interesting when you let God be in charge!
The kid's programs are what originally drew us to Friendship, and our kids have been greatly impacted by them! Now that our kids are grown and off into the world, Friendship is a great community for us; we have great friends and experience Friendship throughout the community / Twin Cities.
Kyle Drake and his wife Ali have been attending Friendship Church since 2007 and have been married for 12 years. They have 4 children ages 3 - 7. Kyle is currently a Senior Project Manager at Danny’s Construction Company, LLC. Kyle serves as a Team Lead in the Worship Center on Sunday mornings. He and his wife have also served in the kids ministry in the past. Kyle loves the outdoors and loves to hunt and fish when he can find the time. As a family they all love the outdoors and spend a lot of the spring and summer months out on the lake and camping. Kyle enjoys watching his kids grow up and watching them play sports. Through the 12 years of marriage Kyle and Ali have gone through many ups and downs. Through it all they have always relied on God no matter the outcome, and God has always provided no matter the outcome.
I grew-up in Colorado and moved to Minnesota with my wife Danele (who was 7 months pregnant at the time) in 1983. We have three adult children spread across the country, and seven wonderful grandkids. We’ve been attending Friendship Church (usually Shakopee Campus) for the past 10 years. We live in Jordan along with our two dogs. I have worked in the corporate world or owned my own business for over 40 years and been involved in numerous volunteer leadership roles over time. I grew up in a non-churched “Christian” home and ignored God’s tapping on my shoulder for years. He is so persistent if we simply open our hearts to Him – and when I finally listened, I gave my life to Jesus here at Friendship during our first Alpha experience. There isn’t enough paper to tell about all the wonderful things Christ has done for us… it’s not always easy, but the journey and the end WILL be good! When I first heard Phil 4:6-7, it sounded too good to be true… but when I began to TRUST in Him, His peace truly has guarded my heart and mind. This, along with Prov 3:5-6, and Ps 118:24, are my favorite Bible verses. My Spiritual Gifts are Faith, Leadership, and Shepherding/Teaching.
Reed and his wife, Jana, have attended Friendship Church in Prior Lake since 2007, the same year in which they were married. They have three children who are active in Kids Ministry and Awana. Reed is a Senior Engineering Manager at Collins Aerospace in Burnsville. He has enjoyed supporting construction projects at our sister Friendship Church in Pignon, Haiti, as well as serving on the nominating committee for the Shakopee Lead Campus Pastor. Reed enjoys all things outdoors including hunting, fishing, canoeing, and camping. In addition, he also enjoys carpentry and woodworking. Reed and Jana are focused on raising their children to know and serve the Lord, as they continue to walk through their own personal sanctifications.
I have been attending Friendship Church since the year 2000. I live with my husband just five minutes away from the Prior Lake Campus. Mark and I have been married for 33 years and we have one daughter, Codie. Codie was married five years ago and has blessed us with two grandchildren. I believe God moved my family to Prior Lake in 1998 to grow my faith and Codie's faith at Friendship Church. I was baptized by Pastor John Just in Spring Lake in June of 2003. I love attending Friendship Church and meeting with my LifeGroup of ladies. I work full time as a nurse in hospital leadership; I'm currently at St. Francis Regional Medical Center. I've always found Ephesians 6:7, "serve wholeheartedly, as if you were serving the Lord, not people, because you know that the Lord will reward each one for whatever good they do" as a plumb line for how to work and serve. Over the years I've served in Kids Ministry, Second Harvest, went on a mission's trip to Haiti (Love a Child), attended Bible Study Fellowship for eight years, and was a Stephen Minister for seven years. I have the gift of faith and I trust God to act on His promises and be with me in all circumstances. He has been faithful to me. I love looking back in time and seeing all the master planning He did to get me where I am and where He wants me; such a blessing when you see it couldn't have happened any other way. I look forward to serving on the Trustee Board alongside these other volunteers, learning from them, and using my skills from my work life to serve the church.
My wife and I have been attending Friendship Church since 2000 and have been members for almost 15 years. We have four children all whom have grown up going through the youth programs at Friendship. I have had the pleasure to serve in the Flood, River, Hospitality and Marriage Mentoring ministries. I was born again after my college years after spending time in Bible studies, prayer sessions, faith discussions with Michele and attending Search Ministry events and Friendship Church. My goal as a Trustee is to continue the great work of those who preceded me and help the church operate as effectively and efficiently to sharpen the faith of those who attend Friendship Church and bring the Good News of Jesus to those who are unchurched in Scott County and surrounding areas.
Pastor Matt is married to Erika and they have a daughter and a son. He joined the Friendship staff in September 2017.
Praying the Lord's Prayer by J.I. Packer - As a young man this short book totally revolutionized my understanding of prayer and it has impacted my growth as much as anything I have ever read.
Any day that my wife and I get to go out to Mexican food together.
My hobby is to watch my kids participate in their hobbies. I love to attend concerts, soccer games, track meets and cheer for them (only in appropriate cheering venues).
I would love to have been present when God sent fire down to consume the sacrifice on Mt. Carmel for Elijah. What an epic confrontation. What an astounding response from God.
I am passionate about people becoming more like Jesus. God gave his son so that we could become like Jesus in character. There is nothing more exciting than when people take steps no matter how big or small to becoming more like Jesus.
One thing that makes a good leader is a life of integrity. Their words and their life need to match. They must be the same person behind the scenes that they are up front.
God has been showing me his extreme generosity. He gives us so much that is good. There is amazing blessing even within the most difficult of circumstances.
What did you want to be when you grew up?
Originally a garbage man (so my mom tells me) but I would say a phy ed teacher and a coach
If you could have lunch with a famous person, who would it be and why?
Joe Maurer I think he is a good role model for young athletes and would love to listen to the things he went through to get where he is
Do you have a hobby you really enjoy?
I love spending time with my kids so I guess my favorite hobby would be coaching there baseball and hockey teams
What are you Passionate about?
Jr Highers
What is your greatest inspiration?
My parents, both are very Godly and they have always supported me and helped me stay on track in life and being a Christian, they are the first people I call other then my wife when it comes to important life decisions. I find it an honor when someone tells me I am like my Dad
Besides Jesus, who is your favorite person in the bible and why?
I guess if I have to pick just one I would say Peter, because he always seemed willing to step out in faith no mater what might happen. I believe all great men of God had to at one time come to the faith to step out of the boat and trust God sink or swim
What do you like most about Friendship church?
The People, I have grown up at friendship, met my wife at friendship through the youth group and now am seeing my children get involved in the youth and seeing how they are fitting in and also growing with Christ in there lives
My husband, John and I, moved to Prior Lake from California in 1997 which is also how long we have been married. We have attended Friendship Church for all the years that we have lived in Minnesota. We have one daughter, Alayna, who is now a freshman in college so we are recent empty nesters! My career has been in Human Resources; I retired from TCF Bank about a year ago after 21 years.
I have enjoyed photography for years and I have an artistic side. Needing a creative outlet, I combined the two and started scrapbooking several years ago. I do both digital and traditional when I have time.
A crisp, fall, sunny day in the mountains starting with a cup of coffee on the deck of a cabin. Then enjoying leisure time throughout the day in a mountain resort town with family and friends, ending with a delicious dinner, the warmth of the fireplace and a good boardgame!
I would love to see the day when all people have access to clean water.
I love the book of Acts because of how it brings Christianity to life through Paul's remarkable recordings. I consider my life verse to be Philippians 4:4-6.
God has been showing me that to best serve Him I have to believe Him and be bold with my faith. I love this quote from Andy Stanley, "Boldness demands continual reliance on God's spirit." I am pleasantly surprised whenever I exercise this mindset!
I like Friendship Church because it is a medium-sized congregation that doesn't feel too big or too small. I value the people I have served with along the way; some of our dearest friends we met through the church. I love that it is a walk-the-talk kind of church that reflects Jesus.
What did you want to be when you grew up?
An architect or youth pastor.
What is your favorite movie and why?
How To Train Your Dragon ...a clever, funny movie.
What book would you recommend and why?
The Knowledge of the Holy by A.W. Tozer. Great book on the attributes of God.
What was your last purchase?
Hillsong concert tickets.
What's in your CD player or iPod?
Starfield.
If you could have lunch with a famous person, who would it be and why?
Tim Tebow... I love football and respect him as a man of God.
Do you have a hobby you really enjoy?
Slacklining.
What is your biggest challenge?
Overcoming anxiety.
What is your favorite indulging snack?
Cream cheese wontons, cookies 'n cream ice cream, and Fruit by the Foot
What are you passionate about?
The Lord, sports, getting to know people (talking).
A teacher - and I am blessed to be a teacher's assistant at a local school
90 Minutes In Heaven and 13 Minutes In Hell - both are autobiographies. What a testimony!
Working with children. They are so pure at heart and willing to help others.
I have been delighted about making new, strong Christian friends through bible studies and our bunco group.
Christ centered teachings, and how great it is that my teenager loves attending the youth program. There are so many areas of ministry. Something for all ages to enjoy and continue to see God with fun and friends.
Pastor Art is married to Barb (they met while counselors at a church camp) and have two adult children. Art graduated from Valley Baptist Theological Seminary and joined the Friendship staff in 2011.
A&E Collector's Edition of C. S. Forester's Horatio Hornblower starring Ioan Gruffudd is my favorite movie series (eight movies). The presentation of how Hornblower grows into maturity (courage, honesty, morality, integrity, and respect for both his superiors and subordinates) is inspirational.
The books that have influenced me the most in my Christian life (besides the Bible):
True Spirituality by Francis Schaeffer
Mark of the Christian by Francis Schaeffer
Victory Over the Darkness by Neil Anderson
TrueFaced by Bill Thrall, Bruce McNicol, and John Lynch
Mere Christianity by C. S. Lewis
Lord Change Me (previously titled, I Really Want to Change. . . So Help Me, God) by James MacDonald
My grandmother used to say "I was born to play baseball." My favorite teams are the Minnesota Twins and the St. Louis Cardinals. Also, I started playing golf to minister to a man who was going through a difficult time. He mentioned that I had a natural swing. But, I spend the most time reading. It allows me to learn new things, travel all over the planet and beyond, and to visit places and events in the past.
"True spirituality is a continuing moment-by-moment proper relationship to the God who exists." - Francis Schaeffer, The God Who is There
I would like to visit Norway (the land of my ancestors) and take the cruises that visit Norwegian fjords and the midnight sun.
I admire Jeremiah. "Throughout his life, Jeremiah boldly confronted his people and their leaders with their sins and pleaded with them to repent and return to the Lord. Tragically, however, the people who most needed his leadership rejected him and turned their backs on God's Word." Quoted from NLT The Transformation Study Bible.
The name of the church says it all. From the first time we visited the church, the friendliness of the people and pastors was evident in all that they do for each other.
Pastor Art is married to Barb (they met while counselors at a church camp) and have two adult children. Art graduated from Valley Baptist Theological Seminary and joined the Friendship staff in 2011.
A&E Collector's Edition of C. S. Forester's Horatio Hornblower starring Ioan Gruffudd is my favorite movie series (eight movies). The presentation of how Hornblower grows into maturity (courage, honesty, morality, integrity, and respect for both his superiors and subordinates) is inspirational.
The books that have influenced me the most in my Christian life (besides the Bible):
True Spirituality by Francis Schaeffer
Mark of the Christian by Francis Schaeffer
Victory Over the Darkness by Neil Anderson
TrueFaced by Bill Thrall, Bruce McNicol, and John Lynch
Mere Christianity by C. S. Lewis
Lord Change Me (previously titled, I Really Want to Change. . . So Help Me, God) by James MacDonald
My grandmother used to say "I was born to play baseball." My favorite teams are the Minnesota Twins and the St. Louis Cardinals. Also, I started playing golf to minister to a man who was going through a difficult time. He mentioned that I had a natural swing. But, I spend the most time reading. It allows me to learn new things, travel all over the planet and beyond, and to visit places and events in the past.
"True spirituality is a continuing moment-by-moment proper relationship to the God who exists." - Francis Schaeffer, The God Who is There
I would like to visit Norway (the land of my ancestors) and take the cruises that visit Norwegian fjords and the midnight sun.
I admire Jeremiah. "Throughout his life, Jeremiah boldly confronted his people and their leaders with their sins and pleaded with them to repent and return to the Lord. Tragically, however, the people who most needed his leadership rejected him and turned their backs on God's Word." Quoted from NLT The Transformation Study Bible.
The name of the church says it all. From the first time we visited the church, the friendliness of the people and pastors was evident in all that they do for each other.
Pastor Art is married to Barb (they met while counselors at a church camp) and have two adult children. Art graduated from Valley Baptist Theological Seminary and joined the Friendship staff in 2011.
A&E Collector's Edition of C. S. Forester's Horatio Hornblower starring Ioan Gruffudd is my favorite movie series (eight movies). The presentation of how Hornblower grows into maturity (courage, honesty, morality, integrity, and respect for both his superiors and subordinates) is inspirational.
The books that have influenced me the most in my Christian life (besides the Bible):
True Spirituality by Francis Schaeffer
Mark of the Christian by Francis Schaeffer
Victory Over the Darkness by Neil Anderson
TrueFaced by Bill Thrall, Bruce McNicol, and John Lynch
Mere Christianity by C. S. Lewis
Lord Change Me (previously titled, I Really Want to Change. . . So Help Me, God) by James MacDonald
My grandmother used to say "I was born to play baseball." My favorite teams are the Minnesota Twins and the St. Louis Cardinals. Also, I started playing golf to minister to a man who was going through a difficult time. He mentioned that I had a natural swing. But, I spend the most time reading. It allows me to learn new things, travel all over the planet and beyond, and to visit places and events in the past.
"True spirituality is a continuing moment-by-moment proper relationship to the God who exists." - Francis Schaeffer, The God Who is There
I would like to visit Norway (the land of my ancestors) and take the cruises that visit Norwegian fjords and the midnight sun.
I admire Jeremiah. "Throughout his life, Jeremiah boldly confronted his people and their leaders with their sins and pleaded with them to repent and return to the Lord. Tragically, however, the people who most needed his leadership rejected him and turned their backs on God's Word." Quoted from NLT The Transformation Study Bible.
The name of the church says it all. From the first time we visited the church, the friendliness of the people and pastors was evident in all that they do for each other.
My wife, Hannah, and I have two beautiful daughters named Zoey and Ava. I love that I get the opportunity every day to be a husband and a father.
I promised my wife a vacation to Italy. We'll get there babe! Some other fun destinations for sure, especially with my children: Disney World and Hawaii. Disney World is probably mostly for my wife, Hannah, but I'm sure my girls will like it too.
My favorite people are the disciples. I think they're easily relatable. They're not perfect. In fact, they fail many times and all while having Jesus right in front of them. I also find them to be funny. My favorite example is from Jesus' interaction with the woman at the well in John 4. The disciples went into town to get food. When they got back, they urged Jesus to eat, but Jesus says, "I have food to eat that you know nothing about." And while Jesus is trying to teach them a spiritual lesson, all they can think about is…"Who gave him food?!"
I grew up not-so-handy. When we built our house, I told my wife that I would finish the basement. HA! Well, it took all of 2019, but I finished my basement. That led to a new found love for building and things of that nature. I don't know if it's a hobby since I don't get several opportunities to do it, but I sure do enjoy it!
I don't have a favorite per se, but the verse that I can best recite from memory is Psalm 119:11, "I have stored Your Word in my heart so that I might not sin against You." I decided to memorize this verse several years ago to help me remember to lean into God's Word.
I love the fellowship that we have at Friendship Church and our commitment to Bible-based teaching.
My wife, Hannah, and I have two beautiful daughters named Zoey and Ava. I love that I get the opportunity every day to be a husband and a father.
I promised my wife a vacation to Italy. We'll get there babe! Some other fun destinations for sure, especially with my children: Disney World and Hawaii. Disney World is probably mostly for my wife, Hannah, but I'm sure my girls will like it too.
My favorite people are the disciples. I think they're easily relatable. They're not perfect. In fact, they fail many times and all while having Jesus right in front of them. I also find them to be funny. My favorite example is from Jesus' interaction with the woman at the well in John 4. The disciples went into town to get food. When they got back, they urged Jesus to eat, but Jesus says, "I have food to eat that you know nothing about." And while Jesus is trying to teach them a spiritual lesson, all they can think about is…"Who gave him food?!"
I grew up not-so-handy. When we built our house, I told my wife that I would finish the basement. HA! Well, it took all of 2019, but I finished my basement. That led to a new found love for building and things of that nature. I don't know if it's a hobby since I don't get several opportunities to do it, but I sure do enjoy it!
I don't have a favorite per se, but the verse that I can best recite from memory is Psalm 119:11, "I have stored Your Word in my heart so that I might not sin against You." I decided to memorize this verse several years ago to help me remember to lean into God's Word.
I love the fellowship that we have at Friendship Church and our commitment to Bible-based teaching.
My wife, Hannah, and I have two beautiful daughters named Zoey and Ava. I love that I get the opportunity every day to be a husband and a father.
I promised my wife a vacation to Italy. We'll get there babe! Some other fun destinations for sure, especially with my children: Disney World and Hawaii. Disney World is probably mostly for my wife, Hannah, but I'm sure my girls will like it too.
My favorite people are the disciples. I think they're easily relatable. They're not perfect. In fact, they fail many times and all while having Jesus right in front of them. I also find them to be funny. My favorite example is from Jesus' interaction with the woman at the well in John 4. The disciples went into town to get food. When they got back, they urged Jesus to eat, but Jesus says, "I have food to eat that you know nothing about." And while Jesus is trying to teach them a spiritual lesson, all they can think about is…"Who gave him food?!"
I grew up not-so-handy. When we built our house, I told my wife that I would finish the basement. HA! Well, it took all of 2019, but I finished my basement. That led to a new found love for building and things of that nature. I don't know if it's a hobby since I don't get several opportunities to do it, but I sure do enjoy it!
I don't have a favorite per se, but the verse that I can best recite from memory is Psalm 119:11, "I have stored Your Word in my heart so that I might not sin against You." I decided to memorize this verse several years ago to help me remember to lean into God's Word.
I love the fellowship that we have at Friendship Church and our commitment to Bible-based teaching.
Dave is married to Becky. They have two adult children and one grandchild. They started attending Friendship in 1994. His spiritual gifts are service and generosity.
My wedding day when I married Becky, God's greatest earthly gift to me.
Abraham Lincoln - It would be great to discuss with him face-to-face what role his faith played in the incredibly difficult decisions he had to make.
Marco Island, Florida for six months, then Minnesota for six months. Great weather, Minnesota Twins baseball, and having family around much of the time.
Begin the week with Becky near the North Pole experiencing the Northern Lights in the winter, and then immediately fly to Kauai, Hawaii and stay there for the next month.
Using the gifts that God has blessed me with to advance His Kingdom.
Peter, he went from the deepest pit after denying Christ, to the leader of the early church after experiencing the life changing forgiveness of the risen Christ.
John 10:10 "A thief comes only to steal and to kill and to destroy. I have come so that they may have life and have it in abundance."
The generosity of people who use their gifts of talent, time, touch, and treasure to grow God's Kingdom.
Dave is a grateful believer and follower of Christ, and has been happily married to Renee since 1998. He came from a family of seven children of which he is number 5 in the birth order. Dave works part-time as an electrician and works full-time on the ministry he founded: Quest Discipleship Ministries.
I just finished a book by John R. Cionca titled Your Church At Its Best. I would highly recommend it because it contains practical advice on church leadership and operation in the power of the Holy Spirit.
I collect biographies on U.S. Presidents, U.S. History, and I also have a guitar which I would like to learn how to play some day.
I would have liked to witnessed the life and times of Christ.
My idea of a perfect day is vacationing with my wife, enjoying a meal together, and reading.
I love those who love Me, and those who seek Me diligently find Me. - Proverbs 8:17
I recently studied Mark 14:32-42, and God showed my that I need to reorder my prayer life. I needed to hear that.
It truly lives up to its name. I experience the love and presence of Jesus Christ among my brothers and sisters in the Lord.
Paul is married to Lynn. They have three adult daughters and seven grandchildren. They started attending Friendship in 1994. His spiritual gifts are discernment, helps, words of wisdom and knowledge.
There are four: marrying my wife Lynn and seeing each of my girls being born.
Return to Me because I love watching the old guys getting together and the fun they have bantering back and forth.
New Zealand and Australia.
Watching people go through the process of getting set free.
Both Joseph and Daniel. In the midst of all the adversity the faced, their complete trust in God never waned.
Humility, servanthood and never getting to a place that one stops learning from others.
The Book of James.
The fact that many young and old have become like family to me. That's not easy to find anywhere. Friendship is blessed.
Pastor Matt is married to Erika and they have a daughter and a son. He joined the Friendship staff in September 2017.
Praying the Lord's Prayer by J.I. Packer - As a young man this short book totally revolutionized my understanding of prayer and it has impacted my growth as much as anything I have ever read.
Any day that my wife and I get to go out to Mexican food together.
My hobby is to watch my kids participate in their hobbies. I love to attend concerts, soccer games, track meets and cheer for them (only in appropriate cheering venues).
I would love to have been present when God sent fire down to consume the sacrifice on Mt. Carmel for Elijah. What an epic confrontation. What an astounding response from God.
I am passionate about people becoming more like Jesus. God gave his son so that we could become like Jesus in character. There is nothing more exciting than when people take steps no matter how big or small to becoming more like Jesus.
One thing that makes a good leader is a life of integrity. Their words and their life need to match. They must be the same person behind the scenes that they are up front.
God has been showing me his extreme generosity. He gives us so much that is good. There is amazing blessing even within the most difficult of circumstances.
Pastor Matt is married to Erika and they have a daughter and a son. He joined the Friendship staff in September 2017.
Praying the Lord's Prayer by J.I. Packer - As a young man this short book totally revolutionized my understanding of prayer and it has impacted my growth as much as anything I have ever read.
Any day that my wife and I get to go out to Mexican food together.
My hobby is to watch my kids participate in their hobbies. I love to attend concerts, soccer games, track meets and cheer for them (only in appropriate cheering venues).
I would love to have been present when God sent fire down to consume the sacrifice on Mt. Carmel for Elijah. What an epic confrontation. What an astounding response from God.
I am passionate about people becoming more like Jesus. God gave his son so that we could become like Jesus in character. There is nothing more exciting than when people take steps no matter how big or small to becoming more like Jesus.
One thing that makes a good leader is a life of integrity. Their words and their life need to match. They must be the same person behind the scenes that they are up front.
God has been showing me his extreme generosity. He gives us so much that is good. There is amazing blessing even within the most difficult of circumstances.
Nathan Miller is the Family Ministry Pastor at Friendship Church. Nathan Miller grew up in Owatonna, Minnesota, and graduated from Crown College with a bachelor’s degree in English and a masters in Intercultural Leadership. After studying at The Bethlehem Institute, he earned his M.Div. from Bethel Seminary. Nathan is passionate about missions, youth ministry, and whole-life discipleship and enjoys books, backpacking, soccer, and sushi. He is married to his best friend, Maria, and they have six children.
Nathan Miller is the Family Ministry Pastor at Friendship Church. Nathan Miller grew up in Owatonna, Minnesota, and graduated from Crown College with a bachelor’s degree in English and a masters in Intercultural Leadership. After studying at The Bethlehem Institute, he earned his M.Div. from Bethel Seminary. Nathan is passionate about missions, youth ministry, and whole-life discipleship and enjoys books, backpacking, soccer, and sushi. He is married to his best friend, Maria, and they have six children.
Jeremy is our Middle School Pastor. He is married to Jessica and they have six kids. Jeremy has a long history relationally with Friendship Church, going back to 1991 when a youth ministry team from Friendship was sent to his small rural church. Jeremy was a youth intern at Friendship in 1999 and his family recently joined as members in 2017.
Run the Race'. A story of football, faith, facing fears and tight family bonds.
MARGIN, by Richard A. Swenson. We live in a day of burnout, loneliness, and this book gives a thorough and practical plan to make room for building space back into a busy life. This is vital if our connection with God is going to be vibrant!
Reading or active sports, especially FOOTBALL!!!
The apostle Paul. He has such depth, grit, passion, and tenderness toward Jesus and the church.
Without a doubt, the Day that Jesus returns! It would be exhilarating to say the least?
A strong love, a listening ear, a fear of God, and effective communication skills.
God has been reminding me just how tender His love toward each one of us is. It has actually come as a surprise for me recently. As I listen to good worship songs He has been stirring my heart in love for people.
I would have to say her faithfulness to the word of God and the extraordinary personalities God has united here.
Sam is our High School Pastor. He started at Friendship as an intern in 2013 and since that time has been hired on as full time staff.
Knowledge of the Holy by A.W. Tozer. It's a short book on the attributes of God that is sure to expand your view of God.
I would have loved to walk with Jesus on the road to Emmaus (Luke 24).
"What comes into our minds when we think about God is the most important thing about us." - A.W. Tozer, Knowledge of the Holy
I would sleep in, do devotions outside by a still quiet lake, then meet up with friends and do something active, like sports, hiking or boating. After that I would have a bonfire as the sun set, and finish the night with a movie (or watching the Packers win the Super Bowl).
Gideon, I can relate to his doubts about if God can use him, and then to see God do awesome things through him and make a mighty warrior out of him.
The right combination of confidence and humility, with wisdom that comes through reading the Word, and a heart after God that is seen in a dependence on prayer.
Philippians 4:6-7, God used this verse in my life to lead me out of a life that was controlled by anxiety.
The family-like bond that is found among those who attend here, and the heart of the volunteer leaders in the youth ministry. They love the Lord and love the students in such a beautiful way!
Sam is our High School Pastor. He started at Friendship as an intern in 2013 and since that time has been hired on as full time staff.
Knowledge of the Holy by A.W. Tozer. It's a short book on the attributes of God that is sure to expand your view of God.
I would have loved to walk with Jesus on the road to Emmaus (Luke 24).
"What comes into our minds when we think about God is the most important thing about us." - A.W. Tozer, Knowledge of the Holy
I would sleep in, do devotions outside by a still quiet lake, then meet up with friends and do something active, like sports, hiking or boating. After that I would have a bonfire as the sun set, and finish the night with a movie (or watching the Packers win the Super Bowl).
Gideon, I can relate to his doubts about if God can use him, and then to see God do awesome things through him and make a mighty warrior out of him.
The right combination of confidence and humility, with wisdom that comes through reading the Word, and a heart after God that is seen in a dependence on prayer.
Philippians 4:6-7, God used this verse in my life to lead me out of a life that was controlled by anxiety.
The family-like bond that is found among those who attend here, and the heart of the volunteer leaders in the youth ministry. They love the Lord and love the students in such a beautiful way!
Besides the birth of my children, my fondest memories are any that we spend together as a family.
For The Love, by Jen Hatmaker. I love the humor she brings to the reality of life situations.
All of my years of long hours at my jobs have prepared me for His work. He always knows what is best if we just allow Him to be in control!
There is so much love and kindness at Friendship Church. So many peoplewho are willing to make sacrifices to help others whenever they can.
I'm Kenny! I am a work in progress and I love what Jesus has done for me and how The Holy Spirit has been given to me to live a life dedicated to Him. I take the LORD seriously but not myself! I love my wife (married since 1995) and my family. Also, I really love being a pastor. It's so much fun to gather and worship and live this life together! It's sometimes messy... and that is ok!
This is not a "pastor" answer but there is no book that has changed my life and transformed me like the Bible. I can't emphasize enough the power of the WORD. The Bible is LIVING AND ACTIVE and there is no other book like it! I love the scriptures and because of the power of the Word I became a pastor.
I would take my family to Jerusalem for months! Going to Jerusalem feels like coming home after being away at college. It is a city that is timeless and new, scary and safe, intriguing yet familiar. It is a place where you can engage through education, work, humanitarian aid, or cultural diversity. Additionally, it is a place where you can celebrate rest! I love Jerusalem! I hope to return!
I just started fishing a little more seriously. I like the quiet repetition and the exciting fight in fishing. Fun stuff!
"Don't believe everything you read on the internet!" - Abraham Lincoln
Okay, that was made up… but it is funny! I grew up in southern Indiana near Lincoln's childhood home. So I grew up hearing stories about him. I don't think I can narrow his quotes to "A FAVORITE" but one that has stuck in my head lately is, "Most folks are as happy as they make up their minds to be."
Someone who is not afraid to lead people to Jesus… especially when it is hard. Sometimes it requires clear direction and vision, while other times it requires humility to say, "I'm not sure!" (while seeking wisdom and searching the Word to get the answer).
I'm Kenny! I am a work in progress and I love what Jesus has done for me and how The Holy Spirit has been given to me to live a life dedicated to Him. I take the LORD seriously but not myself! I love my wife (married since 1995) and my family. Also, I really love being a pastor. It's so much fun to gather and worship and live this life together! It's sometimes messy... and that is ok!
This is not a "pastor" answer but there is no book that has changed my life and transformed me like the Bible. I can't emphasize enough the power of the WORD. The Bible is LIVING AND ACTIVE and there is no other book like it! I love the scriptures and because of the power of the Word I became a pastor.
I would take my family to Jerusalem for months! Going to Jerusalem feels like coming home after being away at college. It is a city that is timeless and new, scary and safe, intriguing yet familiar. It is a place where you can engage through education, work, humanitarian aid, or cultural diversity. Additionally, it is a place where you can celebrate rest! I love Jerusalem! I hope to return!
I just started fishing a little more seriously. I like the quiet repetition and the exciting fight in fishing. Fun stuff!
"Don't believe everything you read on the internet!" - Abraham Lincoln
Okay, that was made up… but it is funny! I grew up in southern Indiana near Lincoln's childhood home. So I grew up hearing stories about him. I don't think I can narrow his quotes to "A FAVORITE" but one that has stuck in my head lately is, "Most folks are as happy as they make up their minds to be."
Someone who is not afraid to lead people to Jesus… especially when it is hard. Sometimes it requires clear direction and vision, while other times it requires humility to say, "I'm not sure!" (while seeking wisdom and searching the Word to get the answer).
I'm Kenny! I am a work in progress and I love what Jesus has done for me and how The Holy Spirit has been given to me to live a life dedicated to Him. I take the LORD seriously but not myself! I love my wife (married since 1995) and my family. Also, I really love being a pastor. It's so much fun to gather and worship and live this life together! It's sometimes messy... and that is ok!
This is not a "pastor" answer but there is no book that has changed my life and transformed me like the Bible. I can't emphasize enough the power of the WORD. The Bible is LIVING AND ACTIVE and there is no other book like it! I love the scriptures and because of the power of the Word I became a pastor.
I would take my family to Jerusalem for months! Going to Jerusalem feels like coming home after being away at college. It is a city that is timeless and new, scary and safe, intriguing yet familiar. It is a place where you can engage through education, work, humanitarian aid, or cultural diversity. Additionally, it is a place where you can celebrate rest! I love Jerusalem! I hope to return!
I just started fishing a little more seriously. I like the quiet repetition and the exciting fight in fishing. Fun stuff!
"Don't believe everything you read on the internet!" - Abraham Lincoln
Okay, that was made up… but it is funny! I grew up in southern Indiana near Lincoln's childhood home. So I grew up hearing stories about him. I don't think I can narrow his quotes to "A FAVORITE" but one that has stuck in my head lately is, "Most folks are as happy as they make up their minds to be."
Someone who is not afraid to lead people to Jesus… especially when it is hard. Sometimes it requires clear direction and vision, while other times it requires humility to say, "I'm not sure!" (while seeking wisdom and searching the Word to get the answer).
Autumn has been attending Friendship Church since 2008. She is married to Nathan Warden and has 3 beautiful children: Winona, Jake, and Lincoln. She has been involved in a variety of ministries including Children's, Youth, and Connections before joining the Friendship staff. In her free time, she enjoys cooking, running, traveling, and the occasional power nap. She has a passion for helping people discover their gifts and serve in a way that brings joy to their lives. Her family loves to travel, take Sunday drives, and be at the family cabin in Wisconsin.”
I studied in Italy when I was in college, and I would love to go back with my husband to see God's beautiful creation, immerse ourselves in their culture, and of course, eat their wonderful food!
I really enjoy reading, but I'm a mom of 2 teenagers and a 6-year-old. Let's be honest, I don't have time to read. :-) I also enjoy crafting even though the process always takes longer and is more difficult than I expect. When you can look at a finished product that you made, I find joy in that.
On my perfect day, I would be at the lake. I would wake up, go for a run, have my quiet time on the dock, kayak around the lake, swim, read a book, and enjoy a bonfire with friends well into the evening.
ONE of my favorite Bible verses is Isaiah 30:21, "and whether you turn to the right or to the left, your ears will hear a voice behind you saying: 'This is the way. Walk in it.'" This verse reminds me that no matter what, God is always leading me; He will never forsake me or leave me. I find comfort knowing that I don't have to know everything or have everything planned out, but I need to listen for my Savior's voice to guide me to next step.
God has been showing me His Sovereignty and His goodness. He surprised me by changing my direction and bringing me on staff here at Friendship. Everyone at Friendship has been so welcoming, gracious, and supportive.
Prior Lake Campus
(Mailing Address)
17741 Fairlawn Avenue
Prior Lake, MN 55372
Shakopee Campus
12800 Marystown Road
Shakopee, MN 55379
Contact Us
952-447-8282
info@friendshipmn.org
General Info
Sunday Service Times
9:00 and 10:45am
Office Hours
8:00am - 4:00pm (M-TH)
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