I am grateful for the opportunity to serve as the Children’s Ministry Director at Living Hope.  It is a joy to combine my passions of serving Christ and teaching children in this position.  It’s my desire to partner with you and raise children that know, love and serve God with all of their heart, soul, mind and spirit.  The ministries we offer will help children develop and grow deep in a personal relationship with Jesus Christ.

Growing up in Gettysburg, SD, I knew even at a young age that teaching was my calling.  I attended Tabor College in Hillsboro, KS, where I majored in elementary and special education.  It was at this time that the Lord placed within me a desire to work with special needs children.  After graduating from college, I accepted a position in Watertown, SD where I worked specifically with children who had emotional and behavioral needs.  The eight years I served in this position were a time of tremendous growth for me spiritually and professionally.  I also obtained a Master’s degree in curriculum and instruction during these years from South Dakota State University.

I am thankful to be married to a wonderful huasband, Todd, and we give thanks daily for the blessing of our son.  Josiah was born in 2006 and has been a great source of joy as we venture down the road of parenthood.  We relocated to Madison in 2006, and were thankful to find a church home at Living Hope where we saw the love of Christ modeled within the lives of the people at Living Hope.  As a parent looking for a new church home, the quality of the children’s ministry was an important part of our decision.  At Living Hope it was apparent that ministering to children was a priority, and we were impressed by the quality of content children were presented with as well as the genuine love and dedication the ministry volunteers and staff displayed.

When you bring your children to one of the ministries that we offer, please know that they are safe, loved, and prayed for!  The Children’s Ministry section on the website outlines the different ministries that are available for children, but please know how much I would ove to talk with you if you have further questions.

In Christ,

Susan Copeland