Growing up and graduating just a few miles from the church I am now serving, I feel blessed to be so close to home. I attended the University of WI Oshkosh and Milwaukee Institute of Art and Design. Much of my adult life I have worked in the arts as both a Graphic Artist and Interior Designer. In my late twenties, I married Matthew and we have two boys ages 10 & 11. They are joined by one wiener dog, a lizard, a small parrot and fish. That keeps much of our "free time"busy and at our home there is rarely a dull moment.
Like many of my colleagues in ministry, my calling as pastor was out of the ordinary and unexpected. Matthew was half way through his Masters of Divinity degree when God revealed new plans that created a dramatic turn for our lives. In that moment, God called us both to new areas of direction in serving Him. Mine is now to serve in pastoral leadership here at Brandon and to study summers at Garrett Evangelical Theological Seminary.
What will you experience at Brandon United Methodist? I have found a faith community here that is unlike most. Our vision is that ALL are welcome and worthy of God's grace. How amazing it is to me, that God created each of us to be in fellowship with him. Our every breath and waking moment is a concern of the "King"! And how much more amazing is it that we all play a vital role in His plans to spread His Word and love to all.
Through our celebrations, worship, teachings and spiritual experiences, we celebrate God's love. He has shown this to us through the sacrifice of Jesus and by the power of the Spirit we share this great love by serving others.
I am excited to welcome you and to invite you to fellowship with us at the Brandon United Methodist Church.
In His Service,
Pastor Laura Yates
