For the next 12 months, Allie Parkhurst will be embracing everything Minnesotan as she completes her director of Christian education internship with St. John Lutheran Church in Luverne.
“This is my first time living in Minnesota, though I am familiar with many different states,” she said.
Her dad, Geoff, was in the U.S. Air Force (now retired) and moved his family frequently, including spending several years in Japan. Her mom, Naomi, is an early childhood educator and has been teaching for more than 30 years.
Her parents have settled in Camden, New York, with their golden retriever, Cami. Her brother, Tom, 23, lives in Norfolk, Virginia, and works for an appliance company.
Parkhurst attended Concordia University Nebraska in Seward where she majored in theology and Christian education leadership. She also took classes in drama and theater, “which I would love to incorporate into ministry,” she said.
While at Concordia, Parkhurst participated in Concordia Youth Ministry, leading lock-ins for church groups around the state and was active in the college’s Wednesday night praise worship experience.
Wednesdays will continue to be busy for Parkhurst.
Last week she kicked off a Bible study program for high school students, which she wrote and led. The sessions will continue at 7 p.m. each Wednesday. She will also prepare a team to lead Midweek Bible School.
“I talked with students and parents about what they are looking for me to accomplish over the next year, and spend time getting to know the town,” Parkhurst said.
One place Parkhurst will spend time will be the community library.
“I enjoy reading anything and everything,” she said.
She also likes spending time with her family, writing and enjoying the outdoors.
For the past three summers Parkhurst spent a lot of time outdoors at Camp Luther in Three Lakes, Wisconsin. Most recently, she served as the camp’s head counselor.
“It was an incredible summer and one where I learned how to be an effective leader and how to best care for others,” she said.
Now in Luverne, Parkhurst is bringing her new knowledge to St. John.
“I am so thankful for this opportunity and I cannot wait to see what the Lord has in store for me,” she said.