Welcome from Pastor Karen!

I was raised in the United Methodist Church in northwest Kansas. My formative years were marked by an experience of God’s grace so powerful that I still believe the love of Jesus Christ can change the world.

I remember exactly where I was sitting when Isaiah 43 was read in worship: “I have called you by name; you are mine… You are precious in my sight and honored, and I love you.” Though these words were first spoken to an ancient people, they wrapped around my heart — and I long for all God’s children to know this assurance.

In a time when forces of division diminish what God calls beloved, the church is called to embody a love greater than our own. We need a community of faith that prays “thy kingdom come on earth as it is in heaven,” faithfully practices the ways of Jesus, discovers a joy authentic enough to hold grief, and bears witness to a light no darkness can extinguish.

Worship is many things, but at its heart it’s a rehearsal of what matters most: remembering who we are and whose we are. For people with weeks overflowing with activities and demands, I hope worship becomes part of your reset and a place of human connection. If your days feel lonely or empty, I hope being present in the sanctuary reminds you that God holds your life and you are in good company. Sometimes I’m surprised by the simple power of showing up for God and one another.

At Trinity Heights United Methodist Church, some like dressing up and some come casual. Some enjoy quiet; others enjoy visiting. People arrive from all walks of life — and you are welcome here, just as you are.

A bit about me: I first came to Newton as a college student at Bethel College, where my faith and calling to ministry deepened. There, I met my husband, James, who is from Moundridge. After college, we moved to Kansas City — I attended St. Paul School of Theology while he attended KU Medical School. We’ve been married 36 years, enjoy time with our three young- adult children and their spouses, and have a granddaughter nearby with another grandchild on the way. We love nature and exploring new landscapes, and I enjoy any chance I get to meet new people and learn new perspectives.

I have served in local church ministry since my years at Bethel, as well as in extension ministry within the Great Plains Conference. I value the United Methodist emphasis on grace and both personal and social holiness, and how we live out our connection locally and worldwide.

It is an honor to serve as pastor of Trinity Heights United Methodist Church, where our mission is for every person to experience the embrace of God’s unconditional love and to be welcomed, valued, and inspired to live more like Jesus.

If you wish to visit or receive additional information, please contact me at kratzlaff@greatplainsumc.org. I would welcome the opportunity to meet you.

With blessings and grace,

Pastor Karen