Trinity Family in Christ,

I sit to write this pastoral letter and my heart overflows with gratitude.  Gratitude for this new call and opportunity for my family.  Gratitude for the many gifts and supportive words.  Gratitude for the worshipping community that gathers to worship and praise a God that loves us so much.  Gratitude for your embrace and claiming me as your pastor to live out our baptismal promises together.  Thank you!  Thank you!  Thank you! 

Matt, Katherine, Lauren and I are very excited to be part of the faith community of Trinity.    Throughout the call process you heard about me and I would like to take a moment to introduce you to the Strum family. 

Matt is originally from New Hampton, Iowa.  He is a graduate from Luther College in Deborah, IA and has his Masters from Benedictine University in Springfield,  IL.   Matt works for          Rasmussen College in Mankato.   Matt’s passions are music and his family.  The last two summers he and Katherine have been involved in community theater.  They have enjoyed being part of the cast of Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dream Coat and this year Chitty Chitty Bang Bang.  Matt is generally the happiest when he has his guitar in his hand singing with his girls. 

Matt and I have been blessed with two girls who bring us much joy in our lives.  Katherine (Katie) is a 5th grader.  She enjoys music and art.  In her free time you can find Katie playing piano,  singing, drawing, painting, or dreaming up plans for “designing her room.”

Lauren (Lulu) is a Kindergartener.  She is into anything her sister likes (which totally annoys Katherine) …but is happiest when she is outside riding her bike, her scooter, or just running around.   Both girls are excited to meet more friends as we get to know the people of Trinity.    

Ellie Kay is our 1 year old golden doodle.  Hopefully someday you will get to meet her as she develops a few more manners.  She is a delightful yet chaotic puppy addition to our life but she is the source of many smiles, laughs, and lots of love. 

Once again - THANK YOU - for the warm welcome.  I look forward to partner in ministry with you. 

With Much Gratitude

Pastor Krista