Bio
Kelley has served the EFCA's North Central District in varying capacities and roles since 2008. He came to know Christ through missionary dating – a long and beautiful story! His undergraduate education is in law enforcement (AA) and sociology/anthropology with a criminology focus (BA), both from UMD. He also holds a certificate in Bible Survey from the Village School of Bible and an MA in ministry leadership from Crown College. He was Ordained in the EFCA in 2021. Before joining the NCD, he served in law enforcement for 24 years, ending his career as a Patrol Deputy and DARE officer, a role he held for 16 years. Kelley has been married to Jola since 1982 and they have two adult children. He loves reading, gardening, running, and making home-made pasta. Jola has a heart for pastor’s wives and is a baker of fantastic bread (one of the reasons why Kelley runs!). Kelley is grateful to be part of our district family as we serve pastors, their wives, church leaders, and churches.
Pastoral Care
As director for pastoral care, his ministry focuses on developing supportive, preventative, and restorative connections through “assertive availability.” He also assists pastor and churches with implementing restorative staff sabbaticals and developing healthy rhythms of life and ministry. A favorite Bible passage is Matthew 11:28-30: “Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn from me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.”