Building on the Solid Foundation
How can a Lutheran school serve graduates after they have their diploma? You might be surprised! A strong school culture and existing school programs can be powerful tools for a youth ministry partnership between a church and a school. This session will share the story of how a vibrant youth ministry developed at St. John’s in Wauwatosa, lessons learned along the way, and some practical suggestions for other schools and churches partnering to serve young people.
Rev. Kyle Bitter has served as an associate pastor at St. John’s in Wauwatosa, WI since 2013. Prior to his time at St. John’s, he served as an instructor and dormitory supervisor at Luther Prep School in Watertown, WI. At St. John’s, Pastor Bitter oversees community outreach, worship and music, and youth/young adult ministries as well as teaching religion and coaching at St. John’s Lutheran School.
Dana Leyrer has served as a K5 teacher at St. John’s in Wauwatosa since 2000. Prior to that she taught kindergarten at Atonement Lutheran in Milwaukee. At St. John’s, Dana has also been involved with youth ministry since the program began in 2014. Her four children have participated in youth ministry as teens, and Dana has served as a chaperone on five mission trips to three different destinations. Dana also coordinates numerous school programs that connect with youth ministry in different ways.
