Staff

DON PORTWOOD, Pastor

I have been Pastor of Lyndale Church since December 1, 1980. That's getting to be a long time. I don't believe there are many churches I could pastor that long, but Lyndale is a wonderful and crazy mix of people whom I've been privileged to serve. And they keep me on my toes. This leads to the other thing that’s helped me serve Lyndale so long. I’m involved with a folk art form called InterPlay (interplay.org for more info), which stimulates my creativity and playfulness through improvisational movement, story telling, singing and rhythm. InterPlay is one of my "spiritual practices," which is another area of interest. Spiritual practices, ancient and new, can ground our faith so we have the spirit and energy to live the call to be a people and community "who embody and extend God’s welcome, healing, justice and love."

Allan Henden, Community Minister

I have served as Lyndale’s volunteer Community Minister since January 2003. I believe that God calls us to love and welcome our neighbors, whoever they are and wherever they are on life's journey. Lyndale's community ministry is an active presence in our neighborhood, advocating for the needs of children and youth, helping to shelter and feed neighbors in need, reaching out with other people of faith in the community, and sharing common cause and dialogue with our Muslim neighbors and friends.

RHIANNON WILLIAMS, Child Care Provider
I am entering into my 5th year working at Lyndale, so I have seen the children grow, both spiritually and physically (I now know why people would say to me when I was a child, "oh my have you grown!!" and I would of course think, I am not growing fast enough!). I am a graduate student at the U of M in early childhood education and international development. I am trying fervently to finish up "the big book" (as some of my younger friends refer to it) on early childhood education in the Philippines. The children I work with are my motivation. They are the reason and the strength I draw on. I believe that when we listen to our youngest voices, the possibilities are endless.

NATHAN LIEN, Child Care Provider

LAUREN HOHN, Child Care Provider

MINDY ESCHEDOR, Music Director

I began as Lyndale's Director of Music in August of 2008. I'm so pleased to be a part of the vibrant, active, service-oriented congregation that is Lyndale. Music is a valued component of Lyndale's worship, and I don't think I've ever served a church with so many "music-minded" members! They inspire me to continue seeking engaging, thoughtful music to enhance our regular worship, accentuate special services, and celebrate different cultures. I am the Principal Staff Accompanist at MacPhail Center for Music (since 1999) and freelance with various theatres and other musical organizations in the metro area. I'm a native of Michigan, and live in North Minneapolis with my two adorable cats, Max and Sophie.

JILLIAN EMERY, Youth and Young Adult Minister

Jillian grew up in Watertown, Minnesota and has an undergraduate degree in Religion and Social Welfare. She is currently a graduate student at Luther Seminary pursuing a degree in Children, Youth and Family ministry with an emphasis on outdoor ministry and a focus on sustainability for churches and camps.

KARN ANDERSON, Office Administrator
Greetings Lyndale UCC Congregation and Friends, I am Karn Anderson, the Office Administrator. I am thrilled to be here working with Don and all of you! I have a love for organization, communication and community. I am currently involved in Nonviolent Communication (NVC) and I also co-own Good Life Catering. We are deeply committed to local and sustainable food practices, including growing, procuring, preparing and eating. I live in the neighborhood with my two sons, Otis(11) and Andrew(8). We are a family in active pursuit of all things fun, peaceful resolutions and authentic connections.