THE POWER OF PARTNERSHIPS

WITH

Dr. Kristi Meyer & Rev. Eric Schroeder

DESCRIPTION

Many congregations have vibrant and thriving women’s ministries: natural places for female congregation members to volunteer and get involved. However, it can be difficult for women to participate in and contribute to other aspects of a church’s ministry, especially if the congregation’s governance model follows a typical male-only board structure. In these situations, partnerships are key—partnerships among all congregation members but especially partnerships between female members and their pastors.

In this session, we’ll detail the real-life partnership that exists between the presenters and how this partnership naturally grew and developed over time. We’ll look at how similar partnerships might be cultivated at other congregations, and we’ll give some practical suggestions and tips for how session participants can get more involved at their local congregations.

 

BIO

Dr. Kristi Meyer

Dr. Kristi Meyer has served as a mathematics professor at Wisconsin Lutheran College, Milwaukee, since August 2006. Since July 2019, Kristi has also served as the part-time Communications Coordinator at St. John’s, Wauwatosa, Wis. She earned her Master of Arts in Theological Studies degree from Martin Luther College in May 2022, writing her thesis on headship and the roles of men and women. Kristi is a member of the WELS Women’s Ministry Executive Committee and an adjunct instructor for Martin Luther College. In her spare time, she enjoys running, camping, and directing the St. John’s handbell choir.

Rev. Eric Schroeder

Rev. Eric Schroeder has served at St. John’s, Wauwatosa, Wis., since August 2013. Until last summer, he primarily oversaw discipleship and Christian education, especially working with Sunday school, catechism class, and adult Bible studies. In July 2023, Eric transitioned into the role of lead pastor, taking on responsibilities in the areas of administration and leadership development. He is also a trained facilitator in the Prepare/Enrich premarital and marriage counseling program. In his spare time, Eric enjoys spending time with family and getting outdoors into nature by hunting and fishing.