Meet the team
It needs to be said that when it comes to our team, labels don't even come close to describing everything each one of us does on a daily basis. None of us knew what our ministry would look like when we first moved out to Pine Ridge Reservation, but one thing is for sure: We all believe God has specifically and personally called each of us to be in Oglala. We are by no means heroes of the faith or spiritual giants, yet we want to be able to say with Paul, "Imitate me, as I imitate Christ" (1st Corinthians 11:1).
Pastor Eric Sutton
The life-long Chicago Bears Fan grew up in Florida and came to Oglala in spring 2001. He enjoys riding his motorcycle and playing "Settlers of Catan" - at least when he's winning!
Terry & Kathy Michels,
Childrens' Pastors
When Terry & Kathy came from Ohio to Oglala in 2002, they had no idea what wonderful ministry God had in store for them. Since then, they have been serving the children of Oglala with never ending love and dedication. Terry also takes care of every poor old rez dog that shows up by his porch. They love Jesus, children, driving through the Black Hills, and sitting at the campfire.
Harry & Robin Sager,
Board Member
The Sagers are farming and ranching their family land south of White Clay, NE. They have five children and several grandchildren. They enjoy camping, fishing, and having their family over. Harry and Robin have been active members of our church family since the very beginning.
Matthew Economy
Matt joined the Rec team in fall 2011. For a start, he serves as our "go-getter"; however, he believes that God called him into full-time ministry. Matt grew up in North Dakota and graduated from Trinity Bible College in May 2011. He is a professional chiller but also made a great addition to our Settlers-family. :-)
Pastor Leon & Mary Schwartz,
Youth Pastors
Leon grew up in Florida and came to Oglala in spring 2001. He likes Science Fiction, movies, and soccer. His newly-wed wife Mary joined the team in 2008 as a missionary from Germany. She is an addicted hiker and misses the German bread. Together they lead the teen nite, OASIS, and organize various youth events.
Wendell & Kim Gehman,
Sunday school teacher
The couple makes their home in Hot Springs, just south of the Black Hills. Together they have four wonderful kids, three sons and one daughter, as well as two cats and a dog. They enjoy soccer, hunting, golf, camping, and other outdoor family activities. Wendell and Kim have been vital parts of our church family since the very start. Also Wendell is a Science teacher at Red Cloud Indian School on Pine Ridge Reservation.
Jeff & Stacey Bohlmann
Jeff & Stacey first came out here as part of a summer missions team in 2009 - and "got hooked"... Over the following two years God constantly spoke to their hearts about Oglala, so in the fall of 2011 they moved out here. The couple has rich experience in counseling and construction work and is a great addition to our ministry team. They have already adopted a little kitten and are presently doing an awesome job remodeling the old trailer and turning it into their new home.
More about Jeff & Stacey @ www.freedominoglala.com
More about Jeff & Stacey @ www.freedominoglala.com
Heidi Martin
Our latest addition to the team is not a new face in Oglala but really a dear old friend! Born in Florida, Heidi grew up in Pennsylvania and loves the beach, making music, and working with plants. From 1996 to 2003 she lived in Oglala, where she blessed the Lakota through her many gifts and her contagious smile. And now that smile is back! :-) Welcome home, Heidi.