This past Sunday, June 2, we celebrated the newest official members of our wonderful church. Learn more about them below! Photos courtesy of Karim Omar.
Rachael Dosen (pronounced DOE-shen), she/her/hers
What brought you to Hennepin Avenue United Methodist Church?
My Christianity is very activism/aid-focused, and I minored in theology, but did not grow up going to church. To get over my discomfort and form more community with other Christians, I decided to “give up missing church for Lent” and spent the spring attending services in my area. I always enjoyed talking to the people at HAUMC’s Pride booth, so I decided to check it out.
Is there anything you would like the congregation to know about you in particular?
People say I seem reserved at first glance, but I’m actually very extroverted and love meeting new people! I can never have too many projects either, and wear a lot of artistic/logistical hats, so I’m very happy to volunteer here as well.
Why did you join HAUMC?
Activism and community support is very important to me, not only as a Christian, but as a Romani-American and member of the queer community as well. I’m very pleased to have found a progressive, inclusive church that seems to do a lot of good for the people of Minneapolis. Thank you for welcoming me in!
Dr. Michael Schmidt (Mike), he/him/his
What brought you to Hennepin Avenue United Methodist Church?
I was hired as the bass section leader/soloist in 2001.
Is there anything you would like the congregation to know about you in particular?
Born and raised Minnesotan, living in New Brighton with two beautiful fur babies Buddy and Mitchell. A learning experience designer for Edward Jones, I am a lifelong learner and educator. I love camping, cooking, gardening, working on my house, the north shore of Lake Superior, anything Star Trek, and spending time with my families, both chosen and biological.
Why did you join HAUMC?
It is, by far, the most welcoming and affirming church in the Twin Cities. I have always felt at home here.
Michael Scott Kruger (Mike), he/him/his
What brought you to Hennepin Avenue United Methodist Church?
In 1984 my wife Deb and I lived in the neighborhood, on Oak Grove street, and this was ‘the neighborhood church’. After a while it became ‘our church’.
Why did you join HAUMC?
I’m not a joiner, but after 40 years of thinking about it -and the Methodist Church FINALLY doing the right thing to affirm that ALL does indeed mean ALL- I decided the time to join is Now. Putting it another way, joining this church is my version of doing the right thing…like the Methodist church has done.
Nan Brown, she/her/hers
What brought you to Hennepin Avenue United Methodist Church?
Several years ago I had attended Holy Week services with my daughter. Now I have found myself in need of a new church home. HAUMC was the most welcoming place I have visited.
Is there anything you would like the congregation to know about you in particular?
I have one daughter, Amanda, and an 8year-old grandson, Wesley. Just about a year ago my husband, Steve, died from pancreatic cancer. He is the love of my life and best friend for over 50 years. I’ve trained 2 therapy dogs, but am currently petless. I’m waiting on 2 kittens to share my home.
Why did you join HAUMC?
I chose HAUMC because of the warm and welcoming atmosphere. Every time I leave the church I feel like I’ve been given some meaningful message to go into the week ahead. Evelyn Anderson, a friend from our grief group, was very supportive of my move.
Hyon Kim, she/her/hers
What brought you to Hennepin Avenue United Methodist Church?
Returning back to Hennepin church. I think HAUMC is a true follower of Christ.
Is there anything you would like the congregation to know about you in particular?
Love HAUMC.
Why did you join HAUMC?
I am a Three Generations Methodist Christian from Korea. My mother graduated Methodist College in Korea, was a Methodist Church Lay Minister in 1940s in Seoul, Korea and my grandmother was a Methodist Church Deaconess.