Staff

Penny was born and raised in a suburb of Cleveland Ohio where she spent much of her childhood at a very special place called Hiram House Camp. Growing up in such an environment rooted her with the love of camping, nature, children, crafts, music, humanity, faith and campfires.

Penny went to Ohio State University studying biology and music. She graduated from United Theological Seminary in the Twin Cities in 2020. She worked full-time and part-time in camping organizations, as well as the United Methodist Church and the ELCA Lutheran Church in children’s ministry and children’s music.

Penny has eight grandchildren. Penny and her husband Tom live in Northfield with their puppy, Noel, “Ellie” Penny and Tom both sing with the Minnesota Chorale.

She also enjoys painting, poetry, pottery, music, hiking, traveling, golf and Mexican food.

Contact Penny at pastor@littleprairieumc.org

Luann joined Little Prairie's staff in July 2015. She is skilled in piano, organ, and vocal leadership. She is a gifted musician and leader.

Sara is a graduate of Concordia College Moorhead who is also employed at St. Olaf College as a Facilities Administrator. She lives in Dundas, MN, with her husband, two daughters, and their dog. In her spare time, she enjoys attending her daughters' sporting events, concerts and plays. She also loves being outdoors (when the weather is warm) and traveling anywhere she can to see beaches, waterfalls, and mountains. 

My name is Theresa Siemers. I have been a part of Little Prairie U.M.C. since I moved to Minnesota in 2009 after my husband retired from the Navy. I am originally from Pennsylvania but joined the Navy out of high school. I served for one enlistment and was stationed on a destroyer tender in Alameda, California. I was fortunate to attend a West Pac that brought me to places like Hawaii, Guam, Hong Kong, and Japan. When I got out of the Navy, I married John, and every four years traveled to a different duty station. We have lived in California, Washington State, North Carolina, and Connecticut. We have settled in Minnesota, where we enjoy country living with organic farming, livestock, a German Shepherd, and a Jack Russell. We have one adult daughter (Ashley) who, besides my husband, is also my best friend.

I work as a dental hygienist and have enjoyed this career for 20 years. In July 2023, I will have completed a master’s degree in communications. I aspire to use my gifts, talents, and knowledge to build up the kingdom of God and point others toward Christ through continuing service to the church and those in need of my skills.

My passion is running and motivating. About 11 years ago, I started the small group at Little Prairie (Soul Sisters). It is a Saturday morning workout group with devotions, bonding, and movement. It is all-around good for the soul.

Another passion is youth mentoring. I have been assisting in different capacities in the youth group since I started attending Little Prairie. I have recently accepted the position of Youth Leader. This is an honor and a privilege to me, as our youth are our future. I love watching these young minds discover their faith and build friendships while having fun. It always makes me excited for our next adventure together.