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Introduction
from Pastor Karen Dorothy Knapp Parsh:
Born and raised a Lutheran in Erie, PA, I graduated from Gannon
University with a degree in Mental Health counseling; and certification
as a Therapeutic Recreation Specialist in an inpatient adolescent
drug and alcohol unit.
Since 1987, I have been in charge of Youth
and Family Ministries at Luther Memorial, and was rostered as an
AIM (Associate in Ministry) by the Lutheran Church in 1988. Through
the years, I have been active at the Conference, Synodical and National
levels as an advocate for Children, Youth and Family Ministries.
Bishop Jones' invitation to work towards ordination through the
TEEM Program (Theological Education for Emerging Ministries) launched
an incredible adventure that has included: studies at Pittsburgh
Theological Seminary, Gettysburg Seminary, Clinical Pastoral Education
at the Veteran Administration's Highland Park inpatient psychiatric
unit, and a congregational internship at St. Paul's Lutheran Church
in Erie.
I have been blessed with a wonderful family, whose support
and encouragement have made my theological adventure possible. David,
my husband and best friend for the past 30 years, is a Computer
Specialist, a strong advocate for youth ministry and a member of
Luther Memorial's choir for close to 50 years. Michael, our 24 year
old son, is happily engaged to Katie Klingensmith and is enjoying
his first year at Gettysburg Seminary - where he is studying to
become a pastor. Gregory, our high school senior and hockey player,
has just received his acceptance letter to PITT, and plans on studying
to become a surgeon.
I have accepted a call to become the pastor of a two point parish:
Salem Lutheran Church in Lamartine and St. Paul's Lutheran Church
in Knox, PA. I eagerly look forward to becoming a part of these
wonderful church families, and know that together, we will have
the opportunity to embrace the living presence of our Lord Jesus
Christ among us. That is the greatest shared adventure that I can
imagine!
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