Breanna has been honored in this way because she’s a tireless advocate for people facing housing instability. Her strong sense of equity, racial and social justice, and vision for the CRC have led her to find creative solutions to meet the ever-increasing needs in the Washington County community. Kudos to you, Breanna!

The post Community Hero Award first appeared on St. Andrew's Lutheran Church.

Children often process loss differently than adults—sometimes in waves and in ways that are hard to recognize—so these guidelines are meant to help you approach those conversations with honesty, compassion, and confidence, creating a safe space where they feel supported, understood, and free to express their emotions. We know not every child or family may be navigating this tragedy in the same way, so use these resources today or tuck them away for when your family needs support.

​​Take a moment for yourself

As a parent, you experience your own sadness, grief, and shock when there is a death in the community. Take time to gather your composure and find a sense of calm before talking with your child.

Expect a range of responses

Children may not respond right away or may seem unaffected. This doesn’t mean they lack feelings—they may not yet know how to express them. Grief often comes in waves, and children may move between strong emotions and normal routines as they begin to understand that death is permanent.

Be prepared for ongoing questions

Children process grief over time, so expect continued conversations. Younger children may ask the same questions repeatedly as they try to make sense of the information. Offer simple, concrete answers. As children grow, their questions may become more detailed.

Validate feelings and encourage expression

Reassure children that all emotions are normal. Encourage them to talk, cry, or express feelings through healthy activities. It’s also okay for them to play and take breaks from grief. Modeling your own feelings can help children understand how to express theirs.

Offer reassurance

Children may react strongly to the death of another child and worry about their own safety. Use simple, direct language to explain how rare such situations are. Remind them of the safe, caring adults in their lives who work to keep them healthy and protected. Create an open, comforting environment where they know they can talk at any time and that there is no “right” way to feel.

Maintain routines and observe behavior

Keep regular routines like school, meals, and bedtime to provide a sense of security. Watch for signs of distress, such as intense sadness, regression, or separation anxiety, and respond with extra support and care.

Create memories or rituals

Help children honor the loss through meaningful activities like sharing stories, looking at photos, drawing, or planting flowers. These rituals can help them process grief and stay connected to the person who died.

Seek professional support if needed

Grief can last for months, but if a child’s reactions become overwhelming or interfere with daily life, consider seeking professional help.

As an additional resource, click HERE for a video to help kids coping with grief and loss.

Don’t hesitate to reach out to our Community Mental Health Coordinator, Jenelle Thorvilson, the Children, Youth & Family Team, or Pastors as needed. We are here for you and your families.

The post How to Talk About Death & Grief first appeared on St. Andrew's Lutheran Church.

For many CRC volunteers, this work is more than a shift on their calendars. It’s a calling. A community.

A Place That Feels Like Home

For Lisa Ender, her words echo the sentiment many volunteers share: the CRC doesn’t simply offer services. It’s a place to belong.

“I used to work at St. Andrew’s before there was a CRC. When I learned what the CRC did, it seemed like the obvious choice for volunteering—and it felt like coming home again! I enjoy the variety of tasks that need to be done, and I love the friendly people I get to spend time with while I am there. It fills me up!”
— Lisa Ender

A New Rhythm in Retirement

Some volunteers step into this work after major life transitions—like retirement. For Sam Seltz, the shift brought new purpose.

“After retiring two years ago, I had a number of things I had planned to do… One was getting more involved with the CRC. Many of the other things I was going to do didn’t work out, but volunteering with the CRC stuck! It’s given me a place to be challenged a bit, and push myself out of my comfort zone. It’s a pleasure to serve, and it’s an important part of my week.”
— Sam Seltz

Showing Love to Neighbors

Others come with a simple goal—to love their neighbors in a tangible way. Small actions become something you can feel, whether it’s helping someone shop for food, finding the right size of winter coat, or listening with patience.

“In my role at the CRC, I feel I’m showing love to my neighbors, as the pastors challenge us to do. And it’s fulfilling forme as well.”
— Connie Langager

“I am continually amazed by the generosity of the St. Andrew’s congregation and the local community as I sort through both new and used clothing that seems to never end…I wonder if people realize how important these gifts are to those with very little.”
— Mary Beth Seguin

Moments That Stay With You

Many volunteers talk most about the moments that surprise them, the ones that stay lodged in their memory long after their shift ends. Sometimes it’s a look of relief from a parent, sometimes a shy smile from a child. These are reminders of how small acts can have a big impact.

“Some things I enjoy are seeing the kids get so excited to shop for new clothes, hearing guests say thank you… It reminds me of how thankful I should be for everything I have.”
— Cher Rafftery

“The best reward was hearing a 6-year-old girl walk into the room of clothes and say, ‘WOW!’”
— Rhonda Regnier

The Joy of Serving Side by Side

Service at the CRC isn’t solitary. Volunteers describe an unexpected gift: community. For some, it’s even become a family affair. In giving together, people find connection, friendship, and sometimes even healing.

“We’ve built a Thursday morning team that helps each other serve.”
— Susan Tigner

“I’ve enjoyed the camaraderie of fellow volunteers… and have felt more at home as a member of St. Andrew’s. What I had forgotten about service is that it gives back tenfold and feeds my soul in this complicated world.”
— Mary Beth Seguin

“Each week I love catching up with regular volunteer friends… Everyone has been so pleasant and kind.”
— Marilyn Heckley

“My granddaughter Emily, who has Down Syndrome, volunteers one day a week with me… It’s a fun family time of giving and learning.”
— Pat Teorey

“The CRC has been a fun opportunity for my mom and I to volunteer together.”
— Rhonda Regnier

Finding Hope Together

Perhaps one of the most powerful stories comes from the early days of the CRC. Hope is not abstract here. It’s food on the table, clean clothes, a safe place for the night. It’s the dignity that comes when given choices. It’s felt in the kindness of strangers.

“One day a woman with two small children came in. They were living in their car… As they left, through tears and hugs, she said, ‘I came in here in desperation and you’ve given me hope.’ And that’s why I volunteer.”
— Pat Whelpley

Why Volunteers Keep Showing Up

For some, the reasons are deeply personal. For others, they’re beautifully simple.

“It’s a fun experience and makes you feel good doing something to help those less fortunate.”
— James Osborn

“I was looking to give back… The reality is, I actually receive so much more than I give.”
— Diane Kwiatkowski

“I feel personal reward from helping those in need… It’s a physical and mental reward for me.”
— Pat Teorey

And then there are the top 10 reasons from volunteer Kathy Stauff—funny, heartfelt, and perfectly true:

1. “Keeps me busy and out of trouble
2. Better workout than the gym
3. I meet grateful, kind people
4. I can spread kindness
5. God has blessed me
6. It’s fun
7. I’ve been in their shoes
8. Jesus uses me
9. The world needs more light
10. I’ve created a second family.”

A Family Made of Helpers

If there’s one thing every volunteer seems to agree on, it’s this: serving at the CRC is not just a job. It’s a place to serve where gratitude flows both ways.

And for many, it’s become a place to belong. Learn more about volunteer opportunities by contacting Laura Francis, CRC Volunteer & Hospitality Coordinator.

For our CRC volunteers, click HERE for a special thank you from the CRC Staff!

The post The Joy of Being in Community first appeared on St. Andrew's Lutheran Church.

For eons, philosophers and theologians have wrestled with the question, “Where is God in the midst of chaos and tragedy?”

But I know two things to be true as Christians: we’re called to show up and speak into the lives of people following a crisis or death of a loved one. And when we show up, God works in and through our loving actions. This is the time to give the comfort that comes from the love of God. 

Here are some thoughts from our Community Mental Health Coordinator, Jenelle Thorvilson to help navigate the many emotions you may be feeling. 

Mike Carlson
Lead Pastor 

TIPS FOR MANAGING EMOTIONS FOLLOWING A CRISIS

By Jenelle Thorvilson
Community Mental Health Coordinator

I find these tips for centering yourself, naming your emotions, and seeking support to be really helpful tactics to navigate the rocky road following a heinous crime such as this. 

Take time to regulate yourself using breathing and or grounding techniques.

Our sympathetic nervous system is activated (fight, flight, freeze, fawn mode) after a tragedy. This mode doesn’t allow us to think rationally or regulate our emotions. Once we can calm our bodies, our minds follow, and we are more equipped to recognize what is happening for us and respond.

It’s important to recognize a variety of emotions can arise. Honor them, all are valid.

It’s common for a wide range of emotions to arise after a traumatic event. Give yourself permission to recognize/acknowledge and feel these emotions. Physical symptoms may also occur, such as difficulty focusing, sleeping, feeling exhausted, or loss of appetite. These are all normal responses to something traumatic—give yourself time and grace to experience these things.

Look and ask for support and care from family and friends.

Talk about what you’re feeling and experiencing. This can help you find comfort as well as help you not feel alone.

Recognize the negative bias that comes with trauma/tragedy.

Notice how your outlook may look more pessimistic after something awful happens. Try to gain balance by reminding yourself of the people and events that are positive and meaningful. This can help you shift to a healthier perspective. This is not to “silver line” the experience—it’s to recognize your focus has changed, and that it’s probably not as realistic as it may currently feel.

Take a break from the news about the tragedy and take care of yourself.

Keeping informed can feel important, but you may need to limit media intake due to the increased stress it can cause. Scheduling some breaks is important to reduce your cortisol levels (stress hormone) and try to focus on something that may feel hopeful.

Avoid alcohol and drugs, they can often intensify emotions or suppress feelings rather than manage them.

Try to reestablish routines that feel healthy and helpful for you as you are coping with these tragic events, such as eating well-balanced meals at regular times, getting regular physical activity, and plenty of rest.

Remember, you need to take care of yourself before you can help take care of others.

Practice empathetic listening with others.

Show care and concern for another person’s feelings and point of view. It’s important to provide a space for others that feels safe and lacks judgment. 

Empathetic listening means providing an experience that feels like “I care, I’m here for you, and you’re not alone.”

Help others on a broader spectrum.

Look for resources in your community for ways you can help those who are affected, such as giving blood, showing support, or contributing to a memorial. This not only helps others but can also help you feel better by being part of a solution.

Show yourself (and others) grace.

Experiencing something traumatic and the grieving that follows can be a long process.  Give yourself time to experience your feelings and recover. There will be ups and downs along the way.  

Hopefully, these tips are helpful, but if you need help walking through these difficult times we are here for you. You can schedule a time with Jenelle or find your other professionals to walk with you as you heal.

The post Managing Emotions In Crisis first appeared on St. Andrew's Lutheran Church.

Mary is also a sophomore at St. Olaf College, majoring in Biology. She grew up Catholic but began attending St. Andrew’s in high school when a friend invited her to be a counselor at Camp Wapo. That first summer changed everything. “That’s when I realized ministry and faith could be fun and welcoming,” she says. She’s now deeply embedded in the St. Andrew’s community, having served as a confirmation leader and peer minister. “I love this community. The kids are so entertaining, and I’ve made so many new friends through church.”

Ella, a sophomore nursing major at Concordia with a psychology minor, has been part of St. Andrew’s her entire life. Baptized, confirmed, peer minister-trained, a camp counselor, and now an intern, her story is steeped in tradition and connection. Her parents were close friends with Mirra’s parents—camp counselors, choir tour roommates, lifelong companions. Ella’s faith journey was shaped by camp experiences and a parable shared by a counselor that sparked her faith. “The mustard seed story stuck with me,” she shares. “I want to be that role model for others, just like my counselor was for me.”

Highlights of the Summer

Unforgettable moments from the internships:

• Sophia loved watching middle schoolers come out of their shells at camp and high schoolers lead with confidence and care.
• Mirra discovered a surprising love for working with high schoolers and cherished her time leading chapel for kids in St. Andrew’s Preschool.
• Mary had her first VBS experience this year and was moved watching her former confirmation students now leading the younger kids.
• Ella found joy in watching the God Squad and High Five Helpers collaborate, building trust and community across age groups.

It All Comes Back to Connection

At its core, this internship is all about generating connection—sparking relationships with kids, charging each other up with encouragement, and grounding themselves in faith. We’ve been blessed by Sophia, Mirra, Mary, and Ella’s personal stories, playful spirits, and deep desires to create a space of belonging for others. This summer, they’ve lit up lives and planted seeds of connection, love, and faith in the next generation—just as others energized them.

The post INTERNview first appeared on St. Andrew's Lutheran Church.

The Community Resource Center (CRC) was born out of necessity. Pastor John Hogenson came to St. Andrew’s during a time of economic hardship, when people of all socio-economic backgrounds found themselves seeking assistance for basic needs. Hogenson’s passion for helping the hurting fueled the creation of the CRC. Through this resource, St. Andrew’s stepped up and stepped in, filling gaps in the community.

Pastor John’s daughter, Jana, was on the front lines when the CRC was created and saw firsthand how necessary these resources were for our neighbors. After a brief hiatus, Jana has returned to the CRC, the place where the passion she inherited from her father first blossomed.

Pursuing Her Passion

Jana grew up in the small town of Grand Marais, Minnesota, in a house right across from the church where her dad served. People were always dropping by—any time, any day—and her parents taught her from early on how to respond when someone needed assistance.

“Church wasn’t just part of our week; it was our whole life. Volunteering, mission trips, and helping others weren’t just things we did occasionally—it was who we were,” Jana said.

When she headed off to the U of M to study Sports Management, she thought she was ready to leave all of that behind and focus on something completely different. But during college, she found herself pulled back into service—working with student athletes, first-generation college students, and taking trips to the Caribbean with St. Andrew’s Mission Jamaica teams.

“Slowly, I realized my passion for youth work and social impact was more than just a part of my upbringing. It was part of me,” Jana said.

After a few years working in college athletics, including time with the University of Minnesota Gophers, she shifted into social work, joining AmeriCorps in 2015 to work with troubled youth at a middle school. Around that same time, her dad was diagnosed with an inoperable, stage 4 glioblastoma brain tumor. That moment really grounded everything for her, and she felt compelled to support her dad’s work.

Starting at the CRC in June 2017 as a temporary front desk worker, Jana Hogenson was quickly promoted to a Case Manager position, assisting with rental aid, housing assessments, families in shelter, and community meals. With limited full-time staff, the CRC relied heavily on volunteers, and she wore many hats. The work was fulfilling, but it also shed light on the housing crisis in Minnesota.

In February 2020, she transitioned to working as a county Social Worker in the Department of Health and Human Services. The role was intense, involving forensic interviews with children who had suffered abuse. Testifying in court and handling 24-hour investigations took its toll on her.

She then moved to a social work intervention position coordinating and facilitating family group decision-making conferences, developing strength-based support plans that focused on keeping families together, safe, and stable. Despite the importance of the work, it became clear that bureaucracy and paperwork were consuming, limiting the time available for direct contact with families in crisis. She longed for opportunities for hands-on support like she had at the CRC.

Coming Home

A chance encounter in 2024 with Breanna Kealy, CRC Director (and also a family friend), led to a job offer. Now, with a larger team, an expanded space, and growing resources, the CRC is able to have more impact in meeting needs in the community.

“Now I see I’m right where I need to be—using my life and career to make a difference in the lives of others. Looking back, it’s crystal clear. Directly and indirectly, my whole life has led me to this point.

And it’s so good to be back! I’m shocked how much the CRC has grown. Pastor Mike is really carrying out my father’s vision for this project. I’m seeing what a truly good and supportive place, team, and environment this is. I wish my dad could see this today,” reminisced Jana

The post Coming Home first appeared on St. Andrew's Lutheran Church.

The Plan siblings, Dave and Robin, have been familiar faces to many at St. Andrew’s Lutheran Church for decades. They’re fully committed to the community they’ve become a part of, sometimes greeting guests out front, but often serving behind the scenes in the kitchen. For Dave and Robin, giving back by volunteering was engrained in them as kids, and they continue to find ways to serve wherever they see a need.

How It All Began

Growing up, Dave and Robin Plan had always been involved in their family church, attending with parents who modeled giving back. From as young as five, they volunteered beside their Mom and Dad, mirroring the grown up’s tasks. Whether it was helping in the kitchen, maintaining the grounds, or doing custodial work, they were fixtures at their church with their parents. When they officially joined St. Andrew’s in 2001, they brought their parents with them, continuing the family tradition of service.

For Robin, the connection with St. Andrew’s began in the early 90s. She started attending services regularly with a good friend, and eventually became a member in 2001. Seeking a pathway to connect, she found serving at St. Andrew’s to be a great way to get to know others. Welcoming guests as a greeter, ushering or being a kitchen lead for funeral receptions deepened her commitment and sense of belonging.

Dave’s journey to St. Andrew’s was on a different path—through his lawn and garden shop. He met former senior pastor Roger Eigenfeld when he came in to purchase a lawn tractor for what was then the new Great Hall. After delivering the machine, Dave taught Roger’s daughter how to drive the tractor mower. As conversations continued, Roger shared his excitement about the recent purchase of the Cassavant pipe organ, sparking Dave’s curiosity about the rapidly-growing church. That casual business relationship led to Dave attending the church, and he soon became a dedicated volunteer and member of St. Andrew’s beside his sister.

A Family Tradition

“We were raised to give back,” Robin reflects. Volunteering wasn’t just a choice—it was something that was embedded in the family’s values. As kids, aside from volunteering at church, they also participated in Boy Scouts and Girl Scouts, where the importance of service was emphasized. As they grew older, they continued to seek ways to serve. 

When Dave and Robin started volunteering at St. Andrew’s, it felt like a continuation of the work they’d done growing up. They vividly remember their first volunteer job—plating cookies, brewing coffee, and then serving them after Sunday services. Since then, their involvement has grown, with Dave’s wife Linda and daughter Sara now joining them in giving back.

The Joy of Working Together

One of the things that makes Dave and Robin’s volunteer experience so special is how they work together. As siblings, they’ve always had a strong bond. “We’ve always gotten along really well,” Dave says, “and we love volunteering together.” This camaraderie started when Robin worked with Dave in his lawn and garden shop. At the end of the week, they would head out fishing once they closed up shop on Saturday. Volunteering together at St. Andrew’s was simply another extension of their shared experiences.

Why They Volunteer

For Dave and Robin, volunteering is about more than just completing tasks—it’s about connection and community. “It’s a great way to get to know people,” Robin says. “And it’s just what you do.” Volunteering gives them a sense of purpose, knowing that they are helping to create a welcoming environment at St. Andrew’s.

The best part of volunteering, for both of them, is the satisfaction of giving back. Dave particularly enjoys greeting people as they enter the church. “You can change someone’s day with just a fun comment as they walk in,” he shares. He values making people feel seen. Robin agrees, saying, “Welcoming people here makes me feel like I’m part of the mission.” They both take great pride in being part of a team that ensures the church feels like a place where people can truly belong.

Hospitality and More

When it comes to their favorite volunteer roles, Dave and Robin don’t have any—they both love doing it all. From greeting newcomers, to ushering, to assisting in the kitchen they’re happy to lend a hand wherever needed. “We just like to do whatever we can to help out,” says Robin. “It feels good to contribute to the ministries here.”

Dave, who also works part-time as the Events Coordinator at St. Andrew’s, is particularly proud of how well the church keeps its grounds—clean and inviting. He also loves that St. Andrew’s hosts so many groups, groups that are always impressed by the warmth and hospitality they feel. Many groups book again right after an event because they felt so welcomed while on our campus.

A Message for Others

What’s their advice for others considering serving? Don’t be afraid—just do it! “There are endless opportunities for people to be involved,” Dave says. “You don’t have to know how to do it. There’s always someone happy to show you the ropes.” Robin adds, “And don’t be afraid of making a mistake. We’ve all done it, and there’s no shame here.” They want others to know that volunteering at St. Andrew’s is about being part of the mission to Proclaim Christ, Live in Christ, and Serve. 

Would you like to connect to this community through serving? Click on the button below to view volunteer opportunities!

VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES

The post It’s All In The Family first appeared on St. Andrew's Lutheran Church.

Growing up in St. Paul, Minnesota, Army veteran Brent Skaja often found himself mesmerized by the mighty Mississippi River. A childhood spent wondering where the river’s current would lead became the foundation of an epic adventure that would challenge him physically, mentally, and spiritually.

Brent’s love for the outdoors and recreation led him to pursue his B.S. in Recreation at St. Cloud State University. This is also where his lifelong passion for canoeing began. Post-college, he began dreaming of canoeing the Mississippi River knowing the 2,300-mile journey would need to be done in stages. He completed the first 1,500 miles from September 2013 to August 2022. These trips were fairly leisurely, with many portages and minimal currents. In April 2024, he set his sights on conquering the most ambitious and daunting portion of the Mississippi River, the final 800 miles.

Overcoming Challenges

Brent’s first attempt was thwarted by historic flooding and a strong advisory from the Coast Guard to abandon his efforts. While disappointing, this pause turned out to be a blessing. Through a Facebook group, Warrior Expeditions, Brent connected with other veterans who regularly undertook similar journeys. He joined a team of three other veterans—two Navy and one other Army veteran—that reignited his hope for the expedition.

“It was really hard not to go at first. But I believe it was God intervening so I could connect with these guys,” Brent shared.

Better prepared and armed with strong camaraderie, the group embarked three weeks later, ready to conquer the miles from Caruthersville, Missouri, to Burns Point in the Gulf of Mexico.

The Journey: Grit and Gratitude

The group’s 19-day journey down the Mississippi was a test of endurance and resilience. With 30-50 miles paddled daily, they navigated dangerous currents, headwinds, unpredictable wing dams, and debris from flooding. The physical demands were relentless, with long days under sweltering heat and nights in humid, 85-degree conditions.

Navigating the river came with significant dangers. The group had to be constantly vigilant, scanning the water for unexpected hazards like submerged trees. Massive barges and industrial boats churned up 3-4 foot waves, adding another layer of peril to each day. “Every day felt like a near-death experience,” Brent recounted, highlighting the mental and physical stamina required to stay safe.

Despite the hardships, their perseverance and teamwork shone through. Each veteran’s determination inspired the others, creating bonds that transcended the miles. Brent reflects, “You get used to being hot and sweaty all day. Your mind has to go somewhere else, and you just adapt.”

Unexpected Blessings Along the Way

The adventure wasn’t without its moments of beauty and kindness. Local communities along the river welcomed them with open arms. Known as “River Angels,” these individuals provided everything from lodging and meals to heartfelt encouragement. In Memphis, a generous host treated them to barbecue, while a small Cajun town offered hospitality and delicious local cuisine.

“We met all of these interesting and amazing people who just wanted to help us. It really restored my faith in humanity,” said Brent.

The journey also highlighted the stark contrasts along the Mississippi. From thriving towns to places holding onto history by a thread, Brent’s experiences underscored the resilience and generosity of people in these communities.

Triumph and Reflection

Arriving at the Gulf was both triumphant and anticlimactic. The final stretch, surrounded by gators and vast bayous, opened into the ocean with little fanfare. Yet, the deeper meaning of the journey was not lost. Brent found time to reflect on life, faith, and purpose, asking himself, “What’s next?”

Grateful for the support from his family, church community, and friends, Brent’s journey was as much about connection as it was about self-discovery. An Apple AirTag allowed his wife and daughters to track his progress, creating a shared experience that inspired his family to embrace perseverance.

The Trip Home

The trip back proved to be another memorable chapter in Brent’s adventure. He spent time at a Navy base in New Orleans, taking advantage of his retired vet card, while the rest of his team traveled to the East Coast. 

Brent made a special effort to meet Dale “Greybeard” Sanders, the oldest person to complete this journey at the age of 88. After enjoying blues music and the vibrant atmosphere of New Orleans, Brent met Dale in Memphis. There, he signed the iconic “Paddlers Wall of Fame” in Dale’s home, a space where he celebrates river adventurers. Dale, who also holds the record for being the oldest to hike the Appalachian Trail, left a lasting impression on Brent. The drive home took nearly a week, giving Brent ample time to reflect on the incredible journey.

Looking Ahead

The adventure left its mark on Brent’s body, with lingering numbness in his hands and a sore back. But it also opened doors to new opportunities, from volunteering as a park ranger to planning his next big trip: the Camino de Santiago in 2026.

Brent’s journey is a testament to courage, camaraderie, and the enduring power of human connection. It reminds us that even in the face of adversity, life’s experiences carry us toward growth and gratitude.

Hear more about Brent’s journey, and explore the cities, stories, and legends that make the Mississippi a symbol of resilience and culture at Brent’s free event, Angels, Cajuns & River Legends – February 1, 2025.

The post Through the Rapids: A Story of Grit, Growth, and the Mississippi first appeared on St. Andrew's Lutheran Church.