October 2018 (1)

Our Mission:
Supporting lifelong faith formation in the home and congregation.


6 Questions and a Cup of Coffee with...Holly Knouse

 
My name is Holly Knouse.         I am the Director of Christian Education at Wayne Zion Lutheran Church in Monticello, Iowa.  I have been in youth ministry since the early 1990's.  My husband Jeff and I live in Monticello. I have two grown children, a son Jordan and a daughter Kourtney. I have always believed my call was to youth, children and family ministries, but in recent years I have explored entering Seminary to become ordained. I am taking my first class and learning all about the online learning community.  
 

 1. Can you describe your call to ministry?

I have known since an early age that I was called to ministry. I have tried to fulfill my call through teaching Sunday School, leading the Sunday School program, working with the youth programs, becoming certified in youth and family ministry, but God has never stopped nudging me to keep going, like there has always been something more that I was called to do.

2. What is the best part of your ministry now?

The best part of my ministry is going out into the community to attend events for our congregation members. There is nothing better than having kids run up to you (or even adults sometimes), and introduce you to their friends. I also love it when they yell at you from the outfield, and thank you for coming to their game.

3. What is one fact about you that would surprise people?

I love liver and onions. I seriously crave this stuff.  Probably not what you were looking for, but you asked!
 
4. What are three things Christian educators need to keep their eye on?
 
1.  There are so many things online and other influences. I think it is important that people research what they are sharing and teaching to make sure it fits with their Church's beliefs. 

2.  I think educators need to remember that kids and even adults aren't going to come to us. Teaching may happen outside of the building.  Be creative and watch what things are getting peoples attention and go with it. 

3.  I think educators need to watch for new ways to protect themselves against all kinds of things -- things we didn't have to worry about 20 years ago.  
 
5. What are some of your favorite resources? 
 
My number one favorite resource will always be others you are able to network with; the Internet has opened up a whole new youth ministry world. Facebook has several wonderful groups including the Christian Education Network of the ELCA of course, the ELCA Youth Ministry Network, Youth Pastors Only, and Children's Ministry Deals.  I also love to go old school and dig through the books that we bought in the 80's and 90's and see how we can make some of those fun suggestions work today.
 
 6. How can we pray for you?      
 
  •  Please pray for me as I begin my Seminary journey.

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    If you would like to recommend a Lutheran or others with a passion for lifelong learning for the "6 Questions and a Cup" column, please let us know! 

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    Holy God,
     
    You are the Great Creator. Make yourself known to us in our everyday lives.  Help us to see you in the everyday things that we pass by.  Help us to seek you out in our lives.  Help us through each day.  Remembering that you are supporting us every step of the way.  
     
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    Christian Education Network of the ELCA
    Vision Statement
     
    Building a community which equips, encourages and empowers those engaged in lifelong faith formation in a changing world.

    The CENetwork will:
    • Identify and evaluate resources and educational opportunities
    • Facilitate communication and conversation
    • Offer guidance, networking and mutual support
    • Nurture spiritual growth online and face to face
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