L5 – Encouraging the Encouragers
by
Mary Heckendorf
leader workshop
Who has encouraged you in your faith? For many, a parent, teacher, or mentor played a key role in recognizing gifts and pointing them toward opportunities to serve. This session will explore how you can be that encourager for the next generation, supporting young people as they consider ways God may use their gifts in ministry and service.
bio info
Mary Heckendorf grew up in Arizona and attended Luther Preparatory School in Watertown, Wis., and Martin Luther College in New Ulm, Minn. Encouraged by her parents from a young age, she knew she wanted to be a teacher. She spent 25 years serving this way before accepting a call as a ministry recruitment counselor. She is passionate about encouraging others to consider lives of service and sharing the hope of the gospel.
Mary and her husband, Joel, have been married for 27 years and are blessed with three children who are studying for or serving in public ministry. This gives her a special perspective as she connects with young people and families. She lives in Reno, Nev., and enjoys spending time with family and friends, hiking, playing games, and reading. A passage that continues to encourage her is, “Be strong and courageous…for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go” (Joshua 1:9).
