More Staffing & Ministry Updates

Pastor Susie accepted a call to serve another faith community and her last day in the office was August 27th as she's on vacation for the next couple of weeks. While we will miss her presence deeply, we also give thanks for the ways God continues to call leaders into new seasons of ministry. The St Paul Area Synod is already working to identify an Interim Pastor to assist us during this time.

Sonja Zabel

We know this a lot of transition and seems overwhelming, but our faith reminds us we are still held in the palm of God's hands. There is much to do, but we can make it through together. Sonja Zabel, an OSLC member and former staff member, will be serving as interim youth director. Sonja begins on September 1st and will lead the ministries Nick Gilbert led for many years. Kelly Marquard is coordinating Rally Sunday. Pastor Leland will be working with the Children's Ministry Team to continue leading Youth Club, Youth Club Jr, and other children's ministries. Volunteers are still needed to assist with both children and youth ministries, please talk to Pastor Leland or Sonja Zabel if you are willing to help out!

Sonja's Bio: Sonja Zabel has been a member of OSLC since 2018, and her connection to the congregation goes back even further — she served as Youth Ministry Director here from 2010-12, before stepping away to raise her family. She and her husband, Tony, are proud parents to Esther (18), Trygve (16), and Cooper (15), all of whom have come through OSLC’s confirmation program. Over the years, Sonja has volunteered extensively at OSLC, including with confirmation, the Connections team, and reading in worship, among other roles. With more than two decades of ministry experience — alongside running her own home downsizing and clear-out business — Sonja is passionate about walking alongside young people as they explore their faith and navigate an increasingly complex world. She’s excited to step into this interim role and get started! 

When a pastor leaves, the challenge facing the congregation is more than the calling of another pastor. The congregation needs to do the work necessary to lay the foundation for a successful next chapter of ministry. InterServe Ministries will be with us beginning in September to help us evaluate our chidren, youth, and family ministries and where we go from here. This will assist us long-term planning and in the process of seeking additional pastoral leadership. Pastor Leland and the Church Council are available to anyone who wishes to ask questions.

We invite all who can join us to come to church today, Wednesday, August 26, anytime between 5-7PM to share memories and offer best wishes to Pastor Susie as she embarks on this next leg of her journey.

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Admin Staff

Sarah Jordahl

Sarah Jordahl has joined our team as the Director of Finance, please welcome her as you see her in office. Her email address is sjordahl@oursaviorsonline.org should you need to reach her regarding any financial questions.



Sarah's Bio: Sarah lives in Blaine with her husband, two kids, and their dog, Max. When she’s not at the ballpark cheering on her kids, she enjoys traveling and spending time with family and friends. Sarah is also passionate about giving back to her community and has enjoyed serving on various nonprofit boards over the years.