About Us

Together we lead with intention to raise up.

We are a group of Lutheran leaders in the Saint Louis, Missouri area who work together to answer the decline in leaders within the church. It is through this effort that we seek to be responsive to a call that God put on our hearts.

Living out this mission means that we cultivate strong, purpose-driven leaders who foster collaboration, innovation, and positive change. While raising up young leaders in the church we cultivate a supportive community where emerging and established christian leaders can develop their skills, share knowledge, and drive meaningful impact in their vocations and beyond. Through our program efforts of mentorship, education, and a commitment to ethical leadership, we empower individuals to navigate challenges, inspire teams, and build a collaborative set of leaders to serve the church. Together, we lead with integrity, vision, and a spirit of collective growth.

Meet the Leaders

Our Story

A few years ago, pastors in the St. Louis area began noticing a growing leadership pipeline challenge in the church. Many young people wanted to serve, but the pathways they were shown were often limited to a few visible roles—pastor, teacher, DCE, or deaconess.

While those vocations are vital, the reality is that ministry happens in far more places than those titles alone.

We began asking a simple question: What would it look like to help young people see the full landscape of where God might send them to serve? To see themselves as sent to share the gospel.

Out of that question, The Harbor began to take shape—a place where young leaders are formed in faith, surrounded by mentors, and encouraged to see that ministry is not limited to a few positions, but can be lived out wherever God calls them.

The Harbor exists to raise up young leaders who are grounded in Christ and ready to be sent out to lead with purpose.

The Harbor's Mission, Vision, and Values

Mission

We raise up young leaders in Christ and send them for service to the church and world.

Vision

We envision a future where young leaders are formed, equipped, and sent to serve God faithfully across congregations, communities, and vocations. Through intentional investment by the Church and collaborative, hands-on leadership development, The Harbor seeks to increase the number of discerning, committed workers serving Christ in the church and the world.

Values

Regional – We prioritize collaboration with local churches and nonprofits, fostering a regional perspective on God’s work. By connecting leaders, congregations, and ministries across communities, we encourage cooperative efforts that maximize impact.
Sacrificial – We cultivate leaders who serve selflessly, placing the growth and flourishing of others above personal recognition or task completion. Our leadership is modeled on humility, service, and a commitment to the greater mission of Christ.
Relational – We nurture young leaders within their communities through meaningful relationships. Mentorship, peer networks, and supportive partnerships provide a foundation for growth, accountability, and long-term spiritual and vocational development.
Empowering – We equip young leaders through hands-on learning and meaningful responsibility, affirming each person’s unique gifts. By providing opportunities to serve with purpose and confidence, we enable them to embrace their calling and make a lasting impact.

Supporting Congregations

The Harbor is supported by congregations who believe in investing in young leaders and preparing them to serve the church and world. These churches provide financial support, encouragement, and a community where young leaders can discover their gifts, grow in faith and leadership, and put those gifts into practice. Together, we are committed to raising up young leaders and sending them into the places God is calling them to serve.

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Church & Nonprofit Partners

Together, We Raise Up to Send Out
The Harbor is made possible through congregations and individuals who believe in investing in young leaders and preparing them to serve the church and world. Not seeing your congregation or nonprofit? Contact us, we'd love to connect to start that partnership today.