Reverend Janelle L. Krais, Associate Pastor

Hi, and thank you for visiting our website to learn more about Grace Lutheran Church and our ministries here!

I was called to Grace in September 2004 as a full-time associate pastor.  Why?  The ministries are growing in so many exciting and Spirit-led ways, that a second minister was desired by the congregation to help continue to grow and reach out to our neighbors.  It is an incredible joy to serve on staff with the senior pastor, Pastor Neff, and to serve God alongside the people of Grace, who are all called to be ministers in their own unique and awesome ways!

 I am a life-long Lutheran and a 2004 graduate of the Lutheran Theological Seminary in Philadelphia, with a Master of Divinity degree.  That makes Grace Lutheran Church my first pastorate.  Prior to seminary, I served as a Director of Christian Education in a local congregation for 5 years and spent several wonderful years at home, raising my children. My undergraduate degree from West Chester University and my graduate degree from Trenton State College are both in Speech Pathology.  My first career as a speech pathologist gave me experience in the public schools, hospitals, and nursing and rehab centers.  All of these experiences have had profound influences upon my understanding of the ministry and God’s marvelous work in this world.  I am thankful for all parts of my journey that have brought me to hearing God’s call to serve in parish ministry.

My husband John, an engineering manager, and I were married in 1984, and we happily admit to being high school friends (not quite sweethearts then!).  We are blessed with three children (actually, two are teens!) who make us extremely proud and keep us always busy.  JJ, our son, is our oldest.  We also have 2 daughters, Ryann and Julie.  Our 2 dogs, Ghillie and Taz, add to the “energy” of our home!

Please come worship with us and experience God’s Word and Sacraments for your life.  We invite you to hear how God is calling you to give thanks and praise… to better understand your purpose in life… to have your faith nourished and fed… to become part of a growing community of faith that is richly and firmly grounded in the love and grace that is given us through Jesus Christ.  We would love for your family to become part of our church family!

In Christ’s peace,

Pastor Janelle Krais