Celebrating Pastor Kris Tostengard Michel
“The steadfast love of the Lord never ceases; his mercies never come to an end; they are new every morning; great is your faithfulness.”
—Lamentations 3:22–23
For 27 years, Pastor Kris Tostengard Michel has been a vital and beloved part of Bethlehem’s story. Her ministry has touched every corner of our community—placing Bibles in the hands of children and watching them grow in faith, preaching God’s Word, administering the sacraments, walking with families through seasons of both joy and sorrow, and inspiring people to use their gifts in service to God and neighbor.
As she marks her 15th anniversary of ordination and a milestone birthday, Pastor Kris has shared that she will retire from her role as Pastor of Congregational Care and Adult Ministry on September 14, 2025. While it is hard to imagine Bethlehem without her daily presence, we rejoice in the many ways God has worked through her and the countless lives she has blessed.
Please join us in giving thanks for Pastor Kris—for her faithfulness, compassion and leadership—and in celebrating this next chapter in her life. We invite you to share your stories of how her ministry has touched your life, nurtured your faith, or marked special moments with God’s promises. Help us celebrate by recalling some of your favorite memories—we’ll post them below so that together we can remember, give thanks and rejoice in the ways God has worked through Pastor Kris among us.
We also hope you will join us on Sunday, Sep 7 in Minnetonka and/or on Sunday, Sep 14 in Minneapolis, where we’ll celebrate her with a special blessing during worship.
