Pastor Lovejoy
Pastor Lovejoy joined the family here at First Evangelical Lutheran Church in April of 2021. In 2004 he graduated with his Bachelor of Arts in Pre-Law from the University of Alaska, Fairbanks. In 2009, he completed his Master of Divinity (MDiv.) degree from Concordia Seminary, St Louis, Missouri. In 2019, he earned his Doctor of Ministry (DMin.) in Marriage and Family Counseling from Denver Seminary, Littleton, Colorado.
Pastor Lovejoy thrives on teaching Bible study and preaching the Gospel. In addition to those elements of his ministry he loves to walk beside and equip couples and individuals as they experience trials in their lives. He counsels individuals struggling with depression, anxiety, grief, traumatic loss, complex trauma, as well as a variety of other issues. For couples, he specializes in strengthening communication and reviving intimacy. In terms of approach to therapy, he uses an integrated approach weaving together the tools of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Emotional Focused Therapy laced with truths of the Christian Faith. He has experience working alongside law enforcement and Fire and Rescue as a Chaplain. He also has experience as a Facilitator of SYMBYS, Couples Communication, and Healthy Congregations. He is a member of the AAMFT, the American Association of Christian Counselors, and a member of the Association for Clinical Pastoral Education. In Washington, he was a Licensed Mental Health Counselor Associate. At this time, He does not plan to pursue licensure in the State of Minnesota.
Pastor Lovejoy has been married to his wife Sarah since 2008. They have four beautiful children, and as a family they enjoy the outdoors as much as possible. Fishing has always been a part of their life and they look forward to continuing this passion with the children in Minnesota. He has a Harley that he and Sarah enjoy riding any chance they get. As a family they enjoy riding ATVs, dirt bikes, hunting and exploring the countryside. If you get a moment, swing by, and introduce yourself to him. His door is always open.
