Bio: Kathy Sutherland came on staff as the Children’s Ministry Director in 2005. She received a bachelor’s degree in Elementary and Early Childhood Education at Winona State University and a master’s degree in Ministry Leadership at Crown College. Kathy grew up in Rochester, MN where her family attended a portable church for several years before moving to a rural home outside of Norwood Young America in 1999. To her surprise, God called her family to another portable church in this small community for another nineteen years. She taught preschool for ten years in Rochester before homeschooling their three children who are now adults. She has been involved with children’s ministry at some capacity since age twenty. She is passionate about reaching children and families with the love of Christ and helping them grow in their faith.
Testimony: Her spiritual journey began at age nine when the seed of Christ was planted in her life after attending a summer backyard Bible club; however, many years passed before the Seed took root and began to grow at age twenty-two when she came to understand what it meant to have a personal relationship with Jesus. Like a plant in a garden, her seed of faith in Christ would endure storms, draught, weeds, and wind. While these elements have contributed to a plant that now flourishes; she has found her fruitfulness has come after times of pruning and learning to cling to the True Vine for daily nourishment and Sonshine.
Life Verse: “I am the Vine; you are the branches. If you remain in Me and I in you, you will bear much fruit; apart from Me you can do nothing.” ~John 15:5
Meaningful Quote: “Although we will never be perfect in this life, it’s God’s passionate desire to continually transform our hearts and lives to reflect the beauty, love, and holiness of Jesus.” ~Chip Ingram
How I spend my Free Time: Bike Riding, Reading God’s Amazing Word, Perennial Gardening, Playing Board Games, Hanging out with Family and Friends
