Small group meeting at Chain of Lakes Church in Blaine MN

Staff & Leadership

Meet Our Staff & Leadership

People are at the heart of Chain of Lakes Church.

Our staff, elders, and deacons work together to support the life of the congregation, care for the community, and help people grow in faith. Rooted in the Presbyterian tradition of shared leadership, we believe ministry happens best when people use their gifts to serve one another.

Whether you're visiting for the first time or have been part of our church family for years, we hope you'll take a moment to get to know the people who help lead and care for our community.

Church Staff

Our staff members support the daily ministry and mission of Chain of Lakes Church. They work alongside volunteers, leaders, and disciples to create a welcoming church where strangers become friends, friends become disciples, and disciples impact the world.

Paul H. Moore

Pastor

Paul began serving Chain of Lakes Church in March 2009 after 16 years as pastor of Community Presbyterian Church in Plainview, Minnesota. He holds a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science from Carleton College and a Master of Divinity from Union Theological Seminary in New York City.

Paul is grateful to help lead a congregation committed to authenticity, growing in personal faith, and making a meaningful impact in the community. He values thoughtful conversation, shared leadership, and helping people discover how faith connects with everyday life.

You can read more of Paul's reflections on his blog.

Pastor Paul would enjoy having a cup of coffee with you.

Contact Paul:

763.257.6994

Carolyn Panning

Administrator

Carolyn began serving as the Chain of Lakes Church Administrator in March 2026 after a brief retirement from a 30-year career with a large corporate organization. In her previous role as Director of Offices, she supported the many functions of a well-run office, something she affectionately called "Hero Support."

Carolyn holds a Bachelor of Arts in Business and Psychology from Hamline University, where she met her husband, Scott. They have two adult daughters and love their dogs.

She is grateful to offer her time and talents to the glory of God while supporting the daily life and ministry of the Chain of Lakes community.

Contact Carolyn:

Brandon Nelson

Music Director

Brandon began playing music in his home church in middle school and soon began leading contemporary worship. Since then, he has served with praise bands at several congregations, including North Presbyterian Church and North Heights Lutheran Church.

His musical background spans Roots and Americana, Funk, Blues, and Rock, with years of experience performing throughout the Twin Cities.

Brandon lives in Saint Paul with his wife and daughter and works as a therapist for children with autism. He enjoys Minnesota parks, game nights with friends, and looks forward to sharing music and growing in faith with the Chain of Lakes community.

Favorite Scripture: Matthew 18:1–2

Contact Brandon:

Kayla Flanagan

Youth Director

Kayla began serving as the Director of Youth and Family Ministries in May of 2026. She has been an active disciple of Chain of Lakes since 2018. Kayla previously served on the Local Impact Team, Worship Team, Audio and Visual Team and Hospitality.

Kayla grew up in Coon Rapids, Minnesota and comes from a large family. She is a proud “auntie” to many nieces and nephews.

Kayla enjoys spending time getting to know each youth that walks through our door, and is excited to support them on their faith journey!

Contact Kayla:

Session Leadership

Chain of Lakes Church is led through a shared model of leadership that includes pastors, staff, and elected elders known as Session.

Session serves as the governing body of the congregation, helping guide the church's mission, spiritual life, and future direction. Elders are elected by the congregation and ordained to serve alongside pastors and ministry leaders in caring for the church and the wider community.

Rooted in the Presbyterian tradition, Session values thoughtful leadership, prayerful discernment, and faithful conversation. Leadership is approached collaboratively, with the belief that listening for God's guidance happens best in community.

What Does Session Do?

Session members provide leadership in many areas of church life, including:

Supporting the spiritual growth of the congregation
Helping shape worship and faith formation opportunities
Overseeing church finances and property
Welcoming new disciples into the life of the church
Supporting local outreach and mission efforts
Planning for the future of the congregation

Leadership at Chain of Lakes is grounded in service. Session members seek to lead with humility, wisdom, compassion, and a commitment to the church's shared values.

Meet Our Session

The individuals below have been elected by the congregation to serve as elders on Session. We are grateful for their leadership, service, and commitment to the life of Chain of Lakes Church.

Class of 2027

Sally Leitch

Ann Turner

Jeff Douglas

Class of 2026

Chris Krebsbach

Katie Lawrence

Dave Nyberg

Deacons: Caring for Our Church and Community

Deacons serve in one of the most meaningful ministries of the church: caring for people. Rooted in the Presbyterian tradition, deacons are called to a ministry of compassion, mercy, and service.

The word deacon comes from the Greek word diakonos, meaning "servant." Through acts of care, hospitality, and support, deacons help ensure that no one walks through life's joys or challenges alone.

Elected by the congregation and ordained for service, deacons work alongside pastors, elders, and ministry leaders to care for both the church family and the broader community.

What Do Deacons Do?

Deacons provide practical care and support in many ways, including:

Visiting members who are sick, homebound, or hospitalized
Offering care and encouragement during times of grief or crisis
Organizing meals for families experiencing illness, loss, or recovery
Assisting with transportation and practical needs
Supporting benevolence efforts for individuals and families facing hardship
Helping with communion, memorial receptions, and church hospitality
Creating opportunities for fellowship and connection

Whether serving behind the scenes or walking alongside someone during a difficult season, deacons embody Christ's love through acts of care and service.

Meet Our Deacons

The individuals below have been elected by the congregation to serve as deacons. We are grateful for their dedication, compassion, and faithful service to the people of Chain of Lakes Church and the surrounding community.