Farewell, Michelle
When Michelle Juehring thinks of her time working at St. Paul Lutheran, a quote from Fred Rogers comes to mind:
“Knowing that we can be loved exactly as we are gives us all the best opportunity for growing into the healthiest of people.”
Michelle will lead her last Vacation Bible School next week. Then, later this month, she will mark her final day on staff. She’s been the director of children’s ministries for more than a decade. She will step into leading the Quad-City Times Bix 7 road race.
A farewell reception will be held on Sunday, June 17, from 10-11:15 a.m. in the Library Commons. She will be recognized at all services on Sunday.
“I’ve loved watching kids grow up,” she said. “I can see their faces, I can hear their laughter. I can see the smile or the smirk or the dance as they go down the hall.”
Michelle’s time was filled with guiding the programs that form faith in families with infants, toddlers, preschoolers, and elementary school kids – Sunday School, VBS, Trunk or Treat, the Christmas pageant, family Bible studies, roller skating parties and swimming parties. A search is underway for a new director.
She’s also an athlete, one whose completed several marathons and one Ironman Triathlon.
She’s a breast cancer survivor.
She’s a daughter, a mom to two and a wife.
She’s a dear, dear friend, colleague, and encourager.
Michelle leaves St. Paul feeling good about the ministry that offers a faith foundation for children. Her greatest hope is that kids and their families always left a time spent at St. Paul feeling a little bit happier than when they came.
She is beyond grateful for the friends made, the experiences shared, the insights learned from all who were part of her life at St. Paul.
“I am pretty darn lucky,” she said.
Deb Lamp
Michelle you are such a blessing to all you do. The children at St Paul have been so blessed to have your guidance and love in their life. You have given so much of yourself for them. Your bright smile and joy have brightened their way. So glad we will continue to see you at St Paul. You will be awesome in your new chapter!
Ronda Bird
Please know you will be missed not just by the children but adults too! You have been a blessing to so many and will continue to do so – just in a different setting! God bless!
Ethan Bettis
Michelle,
Even though I wasn’t a child to go through the children’s ministry at St. Paul, I am very sad to hear about you leaving. I know that you will flourish in whatever you pursue. Bix 7 doesn’t know what a wonderful leader they are getting. Good luck and Best Wishes! See you at Coffee Hound.
Georgeann Kreiter
We’re awfully glad we’ll still be seeing your wonderful smile that always graces St. Paul. You’ll do a great job with the Bix. Have a good summer.
Anne Budde
Michelle,
You are such a talent and ray of sunshine. Thank you for your years at St. Paul’s – always appreciated your great communication. Will still see you around! Best wishes with the Bix 7 – great opportunity.