Dr. Mike Rodewald, retired Executive Director of Lutheran Bible Translators, was a missionary in Liberia (1981-87) before pursuing graduate studies in the U.S., where he met his wife, Cindy (who was also preparing to serve in Bible translation). They served in Liberia, then later served for 15 years with the Kalanga Bible translation project in Botswana. Mike has a Ph.D. in missiology from Concordia Theological Seminary.
Pich Chim (Pastor Sam) is the leader of LCMC Cambodia. Born in a Buddhist family, he became a Christian in 1987. In 1992 (age 16), he began to preach and plant churches with his father. He splits his time between Cambodia and Canada, where his wife and two sons reside.
Karen Dorfmeyer has served at her church for many years as a leader and a teacher. She has a passion for children’s ministry and missions. Karen has participated in seven short-term mission trips to Hong Kong and to the countries of Haiti, Russia, Latvia and Viet Nam.
Rev. Carl and Kelsey Grulke have been missionaries with LBT since 2016. They share a love for the Word of God and for helping it come alive in the hearts of those who hear the Good News.
Carl and Kelsey have served in Botswana since 2018. Carl is currently working as Exegete and Project Coordinator and Kelsey as Scripture Engagement Coordinator among the people of Botswana.
Elliot and Serena Derricks have served since 2018 in Cameroon in Bible translation and literacy. They work alongside a local language group, revising their New Testament, translating the Old and increasing literacy rates community wide. They have 3 children, Lydia, Josephine and Chikodi.
Pastor Lucas Kinser has been in ministry for over 18 years, serving as a youth pastor, outreach pastor and associate pastor. He has served at Faith Community Lutheran Church in Longmont, Colorado, for the past 15 years and is now the co-lead pastor. He and his wife have a daughter, Lilly.
Dr. Philip Gassman is an Environmental Scientist at Iowa State University, Ames, Iowa, and a 24-year member of Ascension Lutheran Church (ALC). He has been involved with the ALC Evangelism and Missions team for nearly 15 years and currently is ALC’s Evangelism/Missions (EM) team leader.
Rev. Dr. Rich Rudowske serves as Executive Director for Lutheran Bible Translators since January 2023. In 2013, he served as Regional Director for Southern Africa before returning to the U.S. in 2014 as Director of Program Ministries and Chief Operating Officer at LBT’s international office.
Leslie Urie leads the Prayer Mobilization team at the World Mission Prayer League (WMPL), seeking to help grow an understanding of the mission of God in the church by inspiring educated and thoughtful prayer. She serves with the Home Office, often being astounded at the ways “God provides.”
