Meet the Team
God has blessed Time of Grace with a staff made up of people with varied talents and gifts. The one thing they have in common? A fierce dedication to spreading God’s Word with others.
Pastor Mike Novotny has served God’s people in full-time ministry since 2007 as a pastor in Madison and now Appleton, Wisconsin. He also serves as a host and speaker for the Time of Grace television program and contributes to the written resources of Time of Grace Ministry. Pastor Mike is married to Kim and has two daughters.
Watch Pastor Mike’s Time of Grace television programs and Grace Talks daily devotions here:
https://timeofgrace.org/writer-speaker/pastor-mike-novotny/?type=Watch
Read Pastor Mike Novotny’s posts here:
https://timeofgrace.org/writer-speaker/pastor-mike-novotny/?type=Read
Listen to the Time of Grace with Pastor Mike Novotny podcast:
https://timeofgrace.org/time-of-grace-with-pastor-mike-novotny-podcast/
Find a book written by Pastor Mike: https://timeofgrace.store/collections/pastor-mike-s-books
Amber Albee Swenson has authored several books and is a regular blogger and podcaster for Time of Grace. Mostly she’s amazed at God’s goodness, awed by his wisdom and desire to grow her, and continually stretched by his calling in her life. For more details about her ministry, go to amberalbeeswenson.com.
Read Amber Albee Swenson’s posts here:
https://timeofgrace.org/writer-speaker/amber-albee-swenson/
Listen to Amber Albee Swenson’s Little Things podcast here:
https://timeofgrace.org/little-things-podcast/
https://timeofgrace.org/the-nonmicrowaved-truth-podcast/
Bruce joined the leadership team at Time of Grace in March 2009. His past ministry experience includes serving as the lead pastor of two Lutheran churches and as a denominational leader responsible for providing ministry resources, training, and support to churches. He is a respected church consultant, public speaker, advisor, and published author. He has a professional doctorate in leadership and ministry management from Trinity International University in Chicago.
He has also served as a member of the Board of Regents for Wisconsin Lutheran College; the Center for Church and Change; chairman of a college president search committee; and a member of numerous commissions, committees, and task forces. He currently serves on the Board of Directors for The Lutheran Home Association.
Bruce lives in Jackson, Wisconsin, with his wife, Linda. They have been married for more than 40 years and have four adult children. They enjoy spending time with family, bicycling, landscaping, and gardening.
“Seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well” (Matthew 6:33).
Pastor Jeremy is currently serving as pastor of a newly-growing mission church in Conroe, Texas. Pastor Jeremy has been married to Karen since 2000. God has blessed them with 5 children (3 girls and 2 boys). Together, they find great joy in encouraging souls with the Gospel of Jesus Christ.
Watch Pastor Jeremy Mattek’s posts here:
https://timeofgrace.org/writer-speaker/pastor-jeremy-mattek/
Listen to Pastor Jeremy Mattek’s Evening Encouragements podcast here:
https://timeofgrace.org/evening-encouragements-podcast/
Pastor Mike Novotny has served God’s people in full-time ministry since 2007 in Madison and, most recently, at The CORE in Appleton, Wisconsin. He also serves as the lead speaker for Time of Grace, where he shares the good news about Jesus through television, print, and online platforms. Mike loves seeing people grasp the depth of God’s amazing grace and unstoppable mercy. His wife continues to love him (despite plenty of reasons not to), and his two daughters open his eyes to the love of God for every Christian. When not talking about Jesus or dating his wife/girls, Mike loves playing soccer, running, and reading.
“But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us” (Romans 5:8)
Watch Pastor Mike’s Time of Grace television programs and Grace Talks daily devotions here:
https://timeofgrace.org/writer-speaker/pastor-mike-novotny/?type=Watch
Read Pastor Mike Novotny’s posts here:
https://timeofgrace.org/writer-speaker/pastor-mike-novotny/?type=Read
Listen to the Time of Grace with Pastor Mike Novotny podcast:
https://timeofgrace.org/time-of-grace-with-pastor-mike-novotny-podcast/
Find a book written by Pastor Mike: https://timeofgrace.store/collections/pastor-mike-s-books
For Matt, Time of Grace is a compelling intersection of sharing the gospel, leadership, leveraging technology, and relationship development.
His responsibilities as the president and CEO include ensuring the ministry stays true to its vision/mission, overseeing the business aspects of the ministry, shaping the strategic direction, and creating a culture in the organization that makes it the “best job ever” for every employee.
As a child Matt lived in five different states. After graduating from Texas A&M, Matt moved to Milwaukee, where God drew him to attend and become baptized into the faith at Grace Evangelical Lutheran Church.
Matt worked previously in industrial sales, leadership roles in the aerospace industry, and as a small business owner focused on LED lighting new product development. He was active in congregational service, serving in different leadership roles and served on the board of Wisconsin Lutheran College.
Matt and his wife, MJ, have been blessed with five daughters of resplendent beauty and boundless energy: Hannah, Emma, Clara, Claudia, and Liza. Together the family enjoys school, sports, swimming, and training their faithful dog, Mars, rescued during the shutdown.
“Trust in the LORD with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make your paths straight” (Proverbs 3:5,6).
Kris was an enthusiastic viewer of Time of Grace before she joined the team and believes passionately in the work of sharing Jesus with others. She has extensive experience in global business development, international marketing, and relationship management. Kris has a BA in German and East Asian studies from Valparaiso University and an MBA from Lake Forest Graduate School of Management.
Kris and her husband, Brian, have been married for over 20 years. They have two children (Jack and Sophia), two German Shepherds, and a cat. Kris enjoys spending time with family, traveling, reading, and baking. She is always seeking a healthier spin on a recipe.
“He will cover you with his feathers, and under his wings you will find refuge; his faithfulness will be your shield and rampart” (Psalm 91:4).
Bruce joined the leadership team at Time of Grace in March 2009. His past ministry experience includes serving as the lead pastor of two Lutheran churches and as a denominational leader responsible for providing ministry resources, training, and support to churches. He is a respected church consultant, public speaker, advisor, and published author. He has a professional doctorate in leadership and ministry management from Trinity International University in Chicago.
He has also served as a member of the Board of Regents for Wisconsin Lutheran College; the Center for Church and Change; chairman of a college president search committee; and a member of numerous commissions, committees, and task forces. He currently serves on the Board of Directors for The Lutheran Home Association.
Bruce lives in Jackson, Wisconsin, with his wife, Linda. They have been married for more than 40 years and have four adult children. They enjoy spending time with family, bicycling, landscaping, and gardening.
“Seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well” (Matthew 6:33).
Nhia has been with Time of Grace since April 2017 and has declared this her dream job: using her God-given multimedia and video production skills to share the good news. Nhia is humbled and grateful for the opportunity to work full-time for the Lord after more than 11 years in media, 2 years in higher ed marketing, and 2 years in communications consulting. When not at Time of Grace, Nhia and her husband, John, live in Sheboygan and are busy chauffeuring their kids—Ella, Norah, and Ian—to practices, games, and school activities. The family enjoys sports, camping, and reading (except Ian; he doesn’t like to read).
“If God is for us, who can be against us? He who did not spare his own Son, but gave him up for us all—how will he not also, along with him, graciously give us all things?” (Romans 8:31,32)
Civil engineering, HVAC design. technical writing, project management, software sales, and now, business intelligence. Clay’s career path is as unique as it is unlikely. But his experience communicating important details has given him an ideal skill set to help Time of Grace use business intelligence to “go and make disciples” as efficiently as possible. Clay; his wife, Stephanie; and their son and daughter live in Madison, WI. Their music room seldom houses fewer than six instruments, often being rehearsed simultaneously. In between work, coaching, and continued education, Clay enjoys hiking, listening to podcasts, and playing in the church band at St. Andrew Lutheran Church in Middleton.
“I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord” (Romans 8:38,39).
Tim joined Time of Grace Ministry in June 2012 as the president and CEO. For eight years he led the ministry through ups and downs and was integral in the launching of Grace Talks video devotions. Effective January 2, 2021, Tim passed the leadership torch to Matt Trotter and is now a development director for the ministry.
Prior to joining Time of Grace, Tim was an executive at Thrivent Financial for Lutherans (3 years) and at Kimberly-Clark Corporation (11 years in executive-level roles and 11 in marketing). He served previously on the boards of Thrivent Financial, InFaith Community Foundation, Bethesda Lutheran Communities Foundation, and Fox Valley Lutheran High School. Tim and his wife, Polly, have two grown daughters, both of whom are married to wonderful men. They have seven grandchildren. Tim and Polly enjoy family time, cooking, and time at their cottage in northern Wisconsin.
“The foolishness of God is wiser than man’s wisdom, and the weakness of God is stronger than man’s strength” (1 Corinthians 1:25).
Amanda started at Time of Grace in April 2008. As the communication content manager, she is the keeper of the schedule—making sure deadlines are met and projects are completed on time. She also works with lots of words!—from letters to emails to devotionals to books to blogs. She is a Wisconsin Lutheran College graduate and has worked in the field of proofing, editing, and publishing for many years. She lives in the Milwaukee area with her “boys”—husband, Craig, and their three sons: Evan, Orie, and Sam. Mandy enjoys running, hanging out with her family, and reading.
“God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble. . . . He says, ‘Be still, and know that I am God’” (Psalm 46:1,10).
Amy joined the Time of Grace team in 2005 and is thankful to be a small part of this wonderful ministry. She currently serves as Executive Assistant/Special Projects and has been keenly aware of God’s blessing as Time of Grace continues to grow in many ways throughout the years. Amy and her husband, Joe, live in South Milwaukee and are proud parents of a daughter and three sons. They are also a delighted granny and papa to eight grandsons and three granddaughters. Amy enjoys walking her boxer, Beau, reading, and finding some new hobbies to take up.
“The LORD is my light and my salvation—whom shall I fear? The LORD is the stronghold of my life—of whom shall I be afraid?” (Psalm 27:1).
Beth joined the Time of Grace team in 2011 and is currently the donor database coordinator. She feels blessed to be part of such a wonderful ministry that is connecting people from all over the world to God’s grace and unfailing love. Beth and her husband, Scott, live in Milwaukee. They have four children: Brett, Brandon, Grace, and Madison. Beth enjoys spending time with her family, days at the lake, cooking, and reading.
“So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand” (Isaiah 41:10).
Zach’s parents have been fans of Time of Grace for years, so he was very familiar with the ministry when he joined the team in June 2021. After a decade of running his own commercial and wedding videography business, Best Man Media, post-pandemic Zach was ready to take his experience, skills, and talents and start a new chapter in his career. Zach graduated from Wisconsin Lutheran College in Milwaukee with a bachelor of arts degree in art. In his spare time, when he isn’t editing for Time of Grace, helping area churches set up live streaming for worship, or filming weddings, Zach can be found enjoying all Milwaukee has to offer, going to the movies, or traveling with his family and friends.
“But those who hope in the LORD will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint” (Isaiah 40:31).
Bethany started at Time of Grace in 2016 when she graduated from Wisconsin Lutheran College. As the creative design manager, Bethany leads our graphic design and creative efforts. She loves the variety of projects and people she gets to work with each day.
But this I call to mind, and therefore I have hope: The steadfast love of the Lord never ceases; his mercies never come to an end; they are new every morning; great is your faithfulness. “The Lord is my portion,” says my soul, “therefore I will hope in him.” (Lamentations 3:21-24).
Meg joined the Time of Grace staff in September 2021 where she combines her passion for service and attention to detail to manage order fulfillment and support the day-to-day office operations. Meg has a background in Christian higher education admissions, having previously served at Wisconsin Lutheran College and Concordia University Wisconsin. She is constantly reminded of her own need for God’s grace and peace and is so thankful to have the opportunity to help share God’s saving love with others. Meg and her husband, Mark, reside in West Allis with their three children: Julia, Norah, and Luke. When not shuttling kids to all the things, Meg enjoys reading, singing in the church choir, and trying (somewhat successfully) to keep her houseplants alive.
“Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus” (Philippians 4:6,7).
Chrissy joined Time of Grace as the office manager in the fall of 2021 and is thrilled to be a part of this life-changing ministry! Chrissy is a native of Washington State and has since lived in Wisconsin, Arizona, Illinois, and now is back in Wisconsin in the Milwaukee area. She and her husband, Joe, are both graduates of Wisconsin Lutheran College and are the parents of four busy boys. Things that bring her joy are spending time with family and friends, good coffee, listening to audiobooks and podcasts, walking her dog, and getting at least seven hours of sleep a night! She also enjoys serving at her church by playing in the worship band and volunteering with the children’s ministry.
“Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer” (Romans 12:12).
Jordan joined the Time of Grace team in 2021 as a part-time graphic designer. She was born and raised in Phoenix, where she currently resides. Jordan graduated from Arizona State University in 2016 with a degree in liberal arts. After spending some time in the customer service industry, she decided to go back to school for an associate’s degree in graphic design. She hopes this leads to a career where she can utilize her creative talents, starting with Time of Grace! In her free time, Jordan enjoys working out, reading, hiking, and baking.
“Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the LORD your God will be with you wherever you go” (Joshua 1:9).
Debi feels privileged to join the team as ministry assistant and to serve in this wonderful ministry. She grew up in Taiwan but has called the Milwaukee area home since her time at Wisconsin Lutheran College. Outside of work, her multitasking abilities are honed daily by facilitating the varying schedules of her four children. She has come to enjoy the unique beauty of Wisconsin and likes being active outdoors as time allows.
“Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer” Romans 12:12.
Born and raised in Puerto Rico, Gabriela is a Spanish speaker who’s passionate about marketing. She has a bachelor’s degree in communications and a master’s degree in digital marketing. Her multiple work experiences have led her to develop different skills in the digital world, from the creation of graphic arts to the development of different digital strategies. From a very young age, Gabriela has understood that her purpose in life is to help others. Working with Time of Grace fulfills that purpose in a very special way because she can help others understand the true purpose of life through the Word of God. Gabriela currently resides in Hawaii with her husband, Michael. In her free time, she enjoys dancing ballet, catching sunsets, reading, and spending time with her husband and their dog, Stefan.
“Commit to the Lord whatever you do, and he will establish your plans” (Proverbs 16:3).
“Pon todo lo que hagas en manos del Señor, y tus planes tendrán éxito” (Proverbios, 16:3).
I am excited for the opportunity to serve the Lord at Time of Grace and to work for a ministry that takes the gospel to all the world. I am enthusiastic about the future and cannot wait to see what the Lord will accomplish through this ministry.
I was raised on a dairy farm outside the small town of Oxford, Wisconsin, enjoying God’s beautiful creation every day. My mother instilled the gift of serving as I watched her serve whenever and wherever she was able, and my father instilled the gift of honoring, respecting, and caring for your family.
After graduating from UW-Madison, the Lord led me to Milwaukee where I earned my CPA and began my accounting career. After working in public accounting and at a finance company, I took a break to raise my family but continued to volunteer and provide accounting support to a couple of Christian ministries.
My husband, Brian, and I live in South Milwaukee and have been blessed with six children. The Lord continues to bless us with two sons-in-law, one daughter-in-law, and our first grandchild to be born in May 2022.
Raising our family has been the ultimate joy in my life, and spending time with our family is my absolute favorite pastime. I also enjoy singing, dancing, walking, sewing, and yoga.
“Therefore, as God’s chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience” (Colossians 3:12).
Pastor Mike Novotny has served God’s people in full-time ministry since 2007 as a pastor in Madison and now Appleton, Wisconsin. He also serves as a host and speaker for the Time of Grace television program and contributes to the written resources of Time of Grace Ministry. Pastor Mike is married to Kim and has two daughters.
Watch Pastor Mike’s Time of Grace television programs and Grace Talks daily devotions here:
https://timeofgrace.org/writer-speaker/pastor-mike-novotny/?type=Watch
Read Pastor Mike Novotny’s posts here:
https://timeofgrace.org/writer-speaker/pastor-mike-novotny/?type=Read
Listen to the Time of Grace with Pastor Mike Novotny podcast:
https://timeofgrace.org/time-of-grace-with-pastor-mike-novotny-podcast/
Find a book written by Pastor Mike: https://timeofgrace.store/collections/pastor-mike-s-books
Katie Augustine is a stay-at-home mom who lives with her husband, Matthew, and their four young children in rural Michigan. When she’s not busy wrangling kids, Katie blogs at Mid-Michigan Moms and Holy Hen House, teaches Sunday school and small-group Bible studies at her church, and serves as the director of Mornings with Mommy—Chesaning.
Pastor Jon Bauer is a pastor in Mount Horeb, Wisconsin. Previously he was an associate pastor at a congregation in Tempe, Arizona. Jon is married to Lindsay and has three children, one boy and two girls.
Watch Pastor Jon Bauer’s posts here:
https://timeofgrace.org/writer-speaker/pastor-jon-bauer/
Linda Buxa is a freelance communications professional as well as a regular blogger and contributing writer for Time of Grace Ministry. Linda is the author of Dig In! Family Devotions to Feed Your Faith, Parenting by Prayer, Made for Friendship and Visible Faith. She and her husband, Greg, have lived in Alaska, Washington D.C., and California. After retiring from the military, they moved to Wisconsin, where they settled on 11.7 acres and now keep track of 15 chickens, multiple cats, and 1 black Lab. Their 3 children insist on getting older and following their dreams, so Greg and Linda are rapidly approaching the empty-nest stage. The sign in her kitchen sums up their lives: “You call it chaos; we call it family.”
Read Linda Buxa’s posts here:
https://timeofgrace.org/writer-speaker/linda-buxa/
Andrea Delwiche lives in Wisconsin with her husband, three kids, dog, cat, and a goldfish pond full of fish. She enjoys reading, knitting, and road-tripping with her family. Although a lifelong believer, she began to come into a deeper understanding of what it means to follow Christ far into adulthood (always a beginner on that journey!). Andrea has facilitated a Christian discussion group for women at her church for many years and recently published a book of poetry—The Book of Burning Questions.
Pastor Jon is the campus pastor at Saint Croix Lutheran Academy in West Saint Paul, MN. He previously served 11 years in West Palm Beach, Florida. Pastor Jon lives with his wife, Debbi, and their four daughters.
Watch Pastor Jon Enter’s posts here:
https://timeofgrace.org/writer-speaker/pastor-jon-enter/
Pastor Matt Ewart and his wife, Amy, have been blessed with three young children who keep life interesting. Matt is currently a pastor in Lakeville, Minnesota, and has previously served as a pastor in Colorado and Arizona.
Read or watch Pastor Matt Ewart’s posts here:
https://timeofgrace.org/writer-speaker/pastor-matt-ewart/
Jan Gompper spent most of her career teaching theatre at Wisconsin Lutheran College in Milwaukee. She also served six years as a cohost for Time of Grace during its start-up years. She has collaborated on two faith-based musicals, numerous Christian songs, and has written and codirected scripts for a Christian video series. She and her husband now reside in the Tampa area, where she continues to practice her acting craft and coach aspiring acting students as opportunities arise. She also assists with Sunday school and other church-related activities.
Sarah Habben is a pastor’s wife and mom of four daughters. She and her family have been blessed to call several beautiful places “home”: Alberta, Canada; the Caribbean island of Antigua; and most recently Flagstaff, Arizona. Sarah is the author of The Mom God Chose: Mothering Like Mary (2015, Northwestern Publishing House) and the coauthor of The Bloodstained Path to God (2012, Northwestern Publishing House)..
Read Sarah Habben’s posts here:
https://timeofgrace.org/writer-speaker/sarah-habben/
Pastor Phil serves as the campus pastor of a high school in Milwaukee, WI. It happens to be the same high school he attended with his high school classmate and sweetheart, his wife Becky. Before coming back to Milwaukee Pastor Phil served as a mission pastor in Florida, starting a new church and school there with his wife. They have two children, a boy and a girl.
Watch Pastor Phil Huebner’s posts here:
https://timeofgrace.org/writer-speaker/pastor-phil-huebner/
Ann Jahns and her husband live in Wisconsin as recent empty nesters, having had the joy of raising three boys to young adulthood. She is a marketing coordinator for a Christian church body and a freelance proofreader and copy editor. Ann has been privileged to teach Sunday school and lead Bible studies for women of all ages. One of her passions is supporting women in the “sandwich generation” as they experience the unique joys and challenges of raising children while supporting aging parents.
Pastor Mark Jeske brought the good news of Jesus Christ to viewers of Time of Grace for 18 years. He also served over 40 years as a pastor at St. Marcus Church, a thriving multicultural congregation in Milwaukee. He has authored several books and dozens of devotional books on various topics. Mark is now retired and lives with his wife, Carol, in Milwaukee.
Read Pastor Mark Jeske’s posts here:
https://timeofgrace.org/writer-speaker/pastor-mark-jeske/
Diana Kerr is a Certified Professional Life Coach on a mission to help go-getter Christian women break free from overwhelm and design their time and life for what matters most. Diana lives in Milwaukee, WI, with her husband, Kyle, and their son, Harrington. Visit dianakerr.com to learn more about Diana and explore her free tips and resources on intentional living.
Read Diana Kerr’s posts here:
https://timeofgrace.org/writer-speaker/diana-kerr/
Pastor Caleb Kurbis serves as one of the pastors of Living Savior Lutheran Church, which has two locations in Asheville and Hendersonville, North Carolina. Caleb and his wife, Sarah, have four children and love living in the Western North Carolina mountains.
Pastor Daron Lindemann is pastor at a new mission start in Pflugerville, Texas. Previously he served in downtown Milwaukee and in Irmo, South Carolina. Daron has authored articles or series for Forward in Christmagazine, Preach the Word, and his own weekly Grace MEMO devotions. He lives in Texas with his wife, Cara, and has two adult sons.
Read Pastor Daron Lindemann’s posts here:
https://timeofgrace.org/writer-speaker/pastor-daron-lindemann/
Missy lives in Green Bay, WI, with her husband, Jon, where they own and run Copper State Brewing Company. She homeschools their four active children, oftentimes at the brewery, and they somehow keep learning in spite of her. Missy loves witty banter, adventures of all sorts, and coffee . . . lots of coffee. And Jesus . . . lots of Jesus.
Read Missy Martens’ posts here:
https://timeofgrace.org/writer-speaker/missy-martens/
Pastor Jeremy is currently serving as pastor of a newly-growing mission church in Conroe, Texas. Pastor Jeremy has been married to Karen since 2000. God has blessed them with 5 children (3 girls and 2 boys). Together, they find great joy in encouraging souls with the Gospel of Jesus Christ.
Watch Pastor Jeremy Mattek’s posts here:
https://timeofgrace.org/writer-speaker/pastor-jeremy-mattek/
Listen to Pastor Jeremy Mattek’s Evening Encouragements podcast here:
https://timeofgrace.org/evening-encouragements-podcast/
Jason had a career as a teacher, counselor, and leader. He has a bachelor’s degree in education, did graduate work in theology, and has a master’s degree in counseling psychology. After his career ended in disabling back pain, he wrote the book Miserable Joy: Chronic Pain in the Christian Life (2007, Northwestern Publishing House). He has written and spoken extensively on a variety of topics related to the Christian life. Jason lives with his wife, Nancy, in Wisconsin.
Read Jason Nelson’s posts here:
https://timeofgrace.org/writer-speaker/jason-nelson/
Jared Oldenburg has served in churches in urban and suburban Milwaukee; Seattle; Denver; and Santa Maria, California. He currently serves in Castle Rock, Colorado, where he lives with his wife, Aimee, and their three children.
Watch Pastor Jared Oldenburg’s posts here:
https://timeofgrace.org/writer-speaker/pastor-jared-oldenburg/
Pastor Ben Sadler has served as a full-time pastor since 2010. He began his ministry at a Spanish-speaking congregation in Florida. From 2014 to 2019, he served at Goodview Trinity Church in Minnesota. Currently, he is at Victory of the Lamb in Wisconsin. He is married to Emily, and they have three children. Ben loves to spend time with his family, ride his road bike, read, write, and preach.
Read or watch Pastor Ben Sadler’s posts here:
https://timeofgrace.org/writer-speaker/pastor-ben-sadler/
Dave Scharf grew up in West Allis, Wisconsin, and served as pastor in Greenville, Wisconsin, from 2005 until 2015. He is currently a professor of theology at Martin Luther College in New Ulm, Minnesota, where he lives with his wife, Beth, and their six children.
Read or watch Pastor Dave Scharf’s posts here: https://timeofgrace.org/writer-speaker/pastor-dave-scharf/
Dan Schmidt is a child of God who gets to serve as pastor at Faith Church in Excelsior, Minnesota. He’s married to his amazing wife, Andrea, and together they have four awesome kids who love Jesus and love meeting people from around the world.
“See what great love the Father has lavished on us, that we should be called children of God! And that is what we are!” (1 John 3:1).
Pastor Clark Schultz loves Jesus; his wife, Kristin, and their three boys; the Green Bay Packers; Milwaukee Brewers; Wisconsin Badgers; and—of course—Batman. His ministry stops are all in Wisconsin and include a vicar year in Green Bay, tutoring and recruiting for Christian ministry at a high school in Watertown, teacher/coach at a Christian high school in Lake Mills, and a pastor in Cedar Grove. He currently serves as a pastor in West Bend. Pastor Clark’s favorite quote is, “Find something you love to do and you will never work a day in your life.”
Karen Spiegelberg lives in Wisconsin with her husband, Jim. She has three married daughters, four grandchildren, and has been a foster mom to many. Years ago she was encouraged to start a women’s ministry but was unsure of the timing. When her brother died suddenly, it hit her hard—that we can’t wait until the time seems right for our ministry; the time is now. And so in 2009, with God’s direction, A Word for Women was born. Karen finds great comfort in Psalm 31:14,15: “But I trust in you, O Lord. . . . My times are in your hands.”
Amber Albee Swenson has authored several books and is a regular blogger and podcaster for Time of Grace. Mostly she’s amazed at God’s goodness, awed by his wisdom and desire to grow her, and continually stretched by his calling in her life. For more details about her ministry, go to amberalbeeswenson.com.
Read Amber Albee Swenson’s posts here:
https://timeofgrace.org/writer-speaker/amber-albee-swenson/
Listen to Amber Albee Swenson’s Little Things podcast here:
https://timeofgrace.org/little-things-podcast/
Christine Wentzel, a native of Milwaukee, lives in Norfolk, Virginia, with her husband, James, and their fur-child, Piper. After two lost decades as a prodigal, Christine gratefully worships and serves at Resurrection in Chesapeake, Virginia. There she discovered latent talents to put to use for the Lord. In 2009 she began to write and create graphic design for an online Christian women’s ministry, A Word for Women, and now also joyfully serves as a coadministrator for this ministry.
Kurt Wetzel has been a pastor in Idaho since 2016. He’s privileged to serve Cross of Christ Church in Boise and Nampa. He enjoys music of all kinds, hiking, and coffee roasting. Kurt and his wife, Stephanie, have four children.
Read or watch Pastor Kurt Wetzel’s posts here: https://timeofgrace.org/writer-speaker/pastor-kurt-wetzel/
Mary Baker brings almost 40 years of federal government and private sector experience to Time of Grace. A self-described “tax nerd,” Mary worked in a variety of technical and senior management roles at the Internal Revenue Service and served on the Senate Finance Committee for Chairman Max Baucus (now the U.S. ambassador to China). She currently leads the tax policy practice at K&L Gates, a global law firm with offices in 46 cities around the world, where she interacts regularly with members of Congress and officials in the executive branch on tax policy and regulatory issues.
Mary balances this out with a creative streak and enjoys flower gardening and various arts and crafts.
Mary and her husband, Steve, are the parents of three children and are members of Trinity Lutheran Church in Woodbridge, VA.
“Don’t be afraid; just believe” (Mark 5:36).
Justin Beck joined the Time of Grace Board in 2014 and is the current board chair. His passion lies in digital and mobile media, and he looks forward to helping provide people of all ages with practical tools and resources for enhancing their spiritual growth.
Justin graduated from UW-Madison with degrees in computer engineering and computer science. He is the CEO and cofounder of PerBlue, a mobile and social gaming company located in Madison, WI, and has grown the company from a few friends in 2008 to 20 full-time employees today. In 2013 with the release of a new game for Android, the company brought in more than $3.5 million in revenue.
A lively speaker, Justin addresses audiences of technology enthusiasts at conferences across the country and in Europe, sharing his insights on topics such as game design, mobile marketing, product design, consumer products, and virtual community building. His regular visits to classes at his alma mater give him the opportunity to foster entrepreneurship in Madison.
Justin has been a lifelong member at St. Andrew Lutheran Church in Middleton, WI, and has been active in its planning counsel, youth group, and the vision task force team. More recently he led a team in re-branding the church’s website and digital presence and continues to regularly play drums for the music team. In his spare time he enjoys camping, boating, flying, and traveling.
“Each one should use whatever gift he has received to serve others, faithfully administering God’s grace in its various forms” (1 Peter 4:10).
Omar’s contributions earned him recognition for Outstanding Faith-Based Organization in 2018 as a committed community partner, community organizer, and resource referral agent. He is proud to be part of a team that helps deter and solve area crimes, as well as create and maintain safety and security.
Ed Carow brings more than 30 years of diverse real estate industry, business ownership, and financial services experience to the Time of Grace Board. As past president of a national property management company, he also served as executive committee member and president of the Milwaukee Institute of Real Estate Management and as a certified property manager.
In his role as owner of a real estate development and investments company, Carow has been integrally involved in acquisitions, management, development, ownership, consulting, finance, customer service, and operations. His experience has included management of in excess of 8,500 apartment units, 20 intrastate and national real estate syndications, subdivision and office building development, and development of over $600,000,000 of hotel and hospitality projects nationwide.
Ed has been active in numerous boards and committees, including a real estate advisory board to Waukesha County Technical College, and numerous Christian leadership and committee positions.
Ed and his wife, Tammy, live in the Milwaukee area and take great joy in having raised three daughters, all of whom are now married. While home is in WI, they split time as well in Naples, FL.
“It is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this not from yourselves, it is the gift of God” (Ephesians 2:8).
Bruce Eberle is considered the father of Time of Grace because it was his idea that started the ministry. He has served on the board since its very beginning. Bruce is the president and founder of the Eberle Communications Group, Inc. (ECG). Today ECG is one of the largest and most widely respected direct mail fund-raising organizations in the U.S., serving the fund-raising needs of more than 40 national organizations.
Bruce has spoken on direct mail fund-raising to numerous national and international audiences. He is a past member of the board of directors of the Direct Marketing Association of Washington and currently serves as a member of the executive committee of the Free Speech Coalition. In 2010 he was a recipient of the Global Leadership Award given by the Bow Group, the World Congress of Families, and the Leadership Institute.
He is a former president and currently a trustee of the Joe Gibbs Youth For Tomorrow New Life Foundation (YFT). In 2000 YFT designated Bruce as its recipient of the Nehemiah Leadership Award. He served on the board of regents at Wisconsin Lutheran College and gave the 1994 commencement address where he received the 1994 Pro Gloria Dei citation.
Bruce lives in McLean, VA, with his wife, Kathie.
“God reigns over the nations; God is seated on his holy throne” (Psalm 47:8).
Wendy is an independent consultant. Previously, she served as the director of advancement for St. Lucas, Bay View, WI, and vice president of development and communications for HOPE Christian Schools. In that role, Wendy built both departments from scratch and led the network’s fundraising and external communications activities. HOPE gave birth to Educational Enterprises, EAGLE College Preparatory Schools, and Compass Educational Programs, and Wendy ran communications for those organizations as well.
Wendy was a vice president at Fleishman-Hillard, an international public relations agency. Some of her clients included Harley-Davidson, McDonald’s, BMO Harris Bank, and Briggs & Stratton. Her work has earned awards from several professional organizations, including a Silver Anvil from the Public Relations Society of America—the industry’s highest honor.
Wendy graduated from Wisconsin Lutheran College with a bachelor’s degree in English literature and earned a master’s degree in journalism from the University of Wisconsin-Madison. After graduate school, Wendy volunteered for one year as a teacher in Plzen, Czech Republic. More recently, she helped open Crossroads Church in Chicago, IL.
Wendy serves on the board of directors for Lighthouse Youth Center. She also has served on the board of directors for Wheat Ridge Ministries and the Christian Women’s Leadership Circle. Wendy enjoys traveling and has visited more than 20 countries.
“We know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose” (Romans 8:28).
Robin Lehninger is an attorney with Dykema Gossett PLLC in Milwaukee, where she is a member of the firm’s capital markets team. She enjoys counseling clients on a variety of transactional matters, from health care mergers and acquisitions to public company transactions. Outside of work, Robin is a member of various choral and instrumental ensembles at church and is also an avid traveler.
In addition to the Time of Grace Board, Robin also chairs the Chapter Advisory Board of Kappa Delta Sorority at Marquette University.
Robin is a member at Grace Lutheran Church in Milwaukee.
“Taste and see that the LORD is good; blessed is the one who takes refuge in him” (Psalm 34:8).
Jenn Nobui joined the Time of Grace Board in 2020 with 20 years of financial and marketing experience at companies including Kraft and Kimberly-Clark. Jenn is currently the Chief Marketing Officer at Shopko Optical where she leads brand building, marketing strategy and innovation and patient experience delivery. Her passion is leveraging digital technology to build one-to-one relationships with consumers.
Jenn earned two degrees from the University of Wisconsin School of Business. While in Madison, she met lifelong Christian friends and developed a passion for service at a student ministry on campus—Wisconsin Lutheran Chapel. She lives in Greenville, WI, with her husband, Sean, and two kids, Kieran and Aiden. Jenn has sought ways to use her professional experiences to support ministry across a number of initiatives, including early childhood ministry, outreach, vision development, and strategy deployment.
“So is my word that goes out from my mouth: It will not return to me empty, but will accomplish what I desire and achieve the purpose for which I sent it” (Isaiah 55:11).
Nathan Paul has a diverse manufacturing background in operations, human resources, and marketing. He spent the majority of his early career in operations leadership building high-tech military vehicles at Oshkosh Corporation. He currently leads the fresh and frozen foods segment at Bemis, a flexible packaging company located in Oshkosh, WI.
Outside of work, Nathan serves on the executive committee at his church, The CORE, where Mike Novotny is the pastor. He has been active in his community over the years coaching high school baseball, engaging with the local chamber of commerce, and serving on a number of higher education advisory committees.
Nathan resides outside Appleton, WI, with his wife, Briana, and their two young children, Jace and Miira. When not changing diapers or pitching to his son (who thinks he plays for the Milwaukee Brewers), he can likely be found in the woods or rooting for a Wisconsin sports team.
“I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord” (Romans 8:38,39).
Daryl Raabe is one of the original founders and board members of the ministry.
Daryl began his career teaching and coaching at Wisconsin Lutheran High School in Milwaukee. Those years formed the basis of his leadership philosophy for the rest of his life. He left teaching to join the family coatings business and spent the next 28 years at Raabe Paint Company and later Raabe Corporation. He progressed from retail management, to national sales management, to marketing, and finally to president and co-owner. He has served on and chaired numerous local and national industry association boards and was recognized for lifetime industry service by the national coatings association.
Daryl has served on multiple boards in two congregations, many of which he has chaired. He has been a board member at Wisconsin Lutheran High School and Wisconsin Lutheran College and has been privileged to chair both. He has served on numerous special committees for local groups and the WELS synod.
Daryl and his wife, Nancy, have been married for more than 45 years and have four adult children and seven grandchildren. In 2004 the family business was sold; Daryl and Nancy now split their time between their vacation home in Gulf Shores, AL, and their home in Franklin, WI.
“This is the day the LORD has made; let us rejoice and be glad in it” (Psalm 118:24).
Dave Schoeneck grew up in the Milwaukee suburb of Wauwatosa and worked various roles at Schoeneck Containers. Dave has served passionately at the church and school of Star of Bethlehem doing ministry and building projects. Dave is eager to do evangelism to all people through any means available and seeks to make the most out of visible church ministry. Dave and his wife, Wendy, have raised three incredible daughters who work in finance, church ministry, and education. Dave and Wendy enjoy Milwaukee Brewers baseball and traveling to Italy.
“May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, so that by the power of the Holy Spirit you may abound in hope” (Romans 15:13).
Jon Sievert brings to the Time of Grace Board more than 25 years of experience leading manufacturing organizations, developing senior leadership teams, and focusing organizations on finding ways to do things a little better every day. He spent the first part of his career working in family-owned manufacturing businesses and most recently in increasing senior leadership roles, leading divisions of a publicly traded company based in Milwaukee. He is a past chairman of the National Truck Equipment Association and served in various board leadership positions over his six years with the industry association. Jon also served on the board of the Midwest chapter of the Association for Manufacturing Excellence.
As a self-proclaimed “lean geek,” Jon has enjoyed sharing his experiences transforming organizations to achieve high levels of performance. Jon enjoys helping people find ways to make the complex simpler.
In his personal time, Jon loves spending time with family and friends. He is a private pilot and is enthused by anything to do with airplanes. Jon and his wife, Angela, love to take their three children—Savanna, Paige, and Cullen—traveling whenever they can. The Mountain States are family favorites! Jon and Angela live in the Milwaukee area and are currently members of Star of Bethlehem, New Berlin, WI.
“And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age” (Matthew 28:20).