Welcome Tony Runkle

St. Paul is excited to welcome Tony Runkle as the new giving ministry coordinator. With a warm smile and an infectious energy for community building, Tony brings a unique blend of educational leadership, compassionate heart, and genuine love for connecting people that makes him perfectly suited for this vital role. He begins his time at St. Paul this month.

A heart for community, a passion for service
Tony’s journey to St. Paul began far from the world of ministry coordination. Growing up as a farm kid in Minnesota, he initially planned to follow in his father’s footsteps as a farmer and mechanic. However, a semester at Wartburg College changed everything.

What started as a science major evolved when he discovered his passion for mentoring and helping others succeed.

“At Wartburg, I got involved with the tutoring and mentoring program, helping students who were struggling academically,” Tony said. “That experience got my educational mind going.”

Tony’s professional background is a testament to his commitment to nurturing others. After earning degrees in both science and education, he spent years teaching junior high and high school science. But it was his involvement in Iowa’s innovative teacher leadership program that truly revealed his calling. Tony pioneered mentoring programs that supported struggling students and new teachers alike.

“Teaching and mentoring followed me wherever I went,” Tony said.

This passion led him to serve as an elementary principal, where he loved every moment of leading a community of nearly 100 staff members.

His dedication to young people extended beyond the classroom as a Fellowship of Christian Athletes leader and head coach for girls’ cross country and track. Even in athletics, Tony’s focus remained on building character and community rather than just winning competitions.

Finding home at St. Paul 
Tony is married to his wife Beth, and has two sons, Boone (16) and Tate (13). Their journey to St. Paul began during the uncertain times of COVID-19. The family was “church hopping,” seeking a place where their family could truly belong.

“From the first service we attended, the vibe and belief system of the community—of who belongs here, which is everyone—it felt right immediately,” Tony said. “St. Paul is about the people.”

After meeting friends and experiencing the genuine acceptance that defines St. Paul, the Runkle family knew they had found their spiritual home.

When Tony saw the giving ministry coordinator position, he felt drawn to it immediately. His skill set—comfortable picking up the phone, having meaningful conversations, meeting with people, and managing budgets—seemed tailor-made for the role. But more than technical skills, Tony brings something invaluable: a genuine desire to walk alongside people.

“I’m a pretty sentimental, emotional guy,” Tony said. “I care deeply about family, relationships, people in general. I’ve always felt the call to be there for people.”

This nurturing heart now finds expression in helping the St. Paul community understand and engage with the mission of generous giving.

Looking forward together 
Tony is particularly excited about the team aspect of his new role.

“You don’t realize how much you miss working on a good team when you first retire,” he said. “Good colleagues who I can be professional with, think things through, grow together, and have friendships with, that’s what I’m looking forward to as a member of the St. Paul staff.”

His vision for the giving ministry extends beyond the walls of St. Paul.

“There are so many places this church touches with our giving,” Tony said. “I want to champion them, really get on the forefront of all the things this church does. This is why we give, and we give generously.”

When he’s not at church, you’ll find Tony with a book in hand (he’s read the Lord of the Rings trilogy “probably 20 times”), planning outdoor family adventures, or casting a line as an avid fisherman.

As Tony steps into this important role, his message is clear:

“It’s a ‘we.’ We do great things together, as a team. As a community,” Tony said. “St. Paul thrives because this community truly understands our strength lies in unity and our shared commitment to making a difference both inside and outside these walls. When we come together as one team, incredible things happen.”