Grace, then Peace, in Jesus Christ,

Dear brothers and sisters of faith,

I am excited about coming to western Wisconsin to serve the churches and communities of Clear Lake, Deer Park, and Forest. The dear people on your Pastor-Parish Relations Committee filled me in on activities that are currently going on. I was most impressed with your wonderful spirit of cooperation.

As I verbally shared with the committee last week, I am a local pastor, having previously served at Beetown/Lancaster and am now in my 6th year at Niagara/Goodman. My education includes an undergraduate degree in education from UW Eau Claire, and graduate credits in special education from Plattville/Whitewater. My religious education is from Garrett Evangelical Theological Seminary, where I completed the required course of study last year.

I am divorced and have two sons, both are married, (no grandkids)! My hobbies include gardening, quilting, biking, and cross-country skiing. Moving with me will be my 2 year old black lab, Levi.

I am originally from Cloquet, MN and I still have family in that area. The Covenant Church was my childhood church, since I have a Scandinavian background. However, I have been United Methodist for many years.

Over those years, I have performed many different roles and task, including: Sunday School teacher of adults, youth and kids; partner in youth ministry; evangelism chairperson; UMW officer; and Disciple Bible Study leader. In 1979 I took a layspeaking course and enjoyed using the preaching gift God gave me.

In 2000, I felt God's call to full time ministry; thus, I left teaching and have not looked back. All of the life experiences I've had, the Lord makes use of, I feel His blessing every day I serve.

I look forward to meeting each of you in person and sharing our faith stories. Until July then, please be in prayer for all of us in transition.

In Christ's Service,
Pastor Pat Nolet