About Us 
SOS: Carole Wogen
Stories of Service: Carole WogenWritten by Marilyn Stalheim
Carole Wogen began her faith journey in a small, rural North Dakota farming community while watching, listening, learning, singing in Sunday School and thinking, “Could I ever do that? Could I be a teacher? Could I tell stories about Jesus? Could I pray out loud?”
When asked, why this particular ministry of teaching 3 year olds? Carole responded, “Of course, I love teaching! I started when my oldest son had separation problems in his three-year old Sunday School classroom. Thirty-four years ago I consented to stay and help. Now, my husband says, ‘I have the separation problem.’ But, I don’t really think that I was teaching them, THEY have taught me! Somebody said I could be a helper, and then they said, I could teach, and so I have.”
It is so wonderful—connecting with young families—sharing their concerns, being able to pray with them and assure them, ‘This too shall pass.’”
“Sharing my faith with these young people keeps me young.”
“Coming from the corporate world—I so appreciate that here I can live my faith in a bold manner. I like the diversity of opportunities. I am committed. Teaching is one way I can serve.”
Tell us, Carole, how many have you trained? “Many parents become engaged as I did. Some move on, some stay. My friend Inez has stayed for 20 years. “
“I love catching up with these young people as they move on. I meet them again as fifth graders as we roll flat bread for communion. I train them as shop keepers for the Annual Holiday Fair Children’s Booth. I meet them as confirmands, sometimes as their mentor. Later I might get to serve as their wedding coordinator, and now I am becoming their children’s Sunday School Teacher!”
“I would wish for all people of my age to know some young people by name and to develop shared memories.”
“I am so blessed as I get to serve old and new friends at our Wednesday Night Meals. Some come needing the food, but all come needing the community.”
“My husband Paul and son, Benjamin, joined me as we packed meals with people of all ages. Paul and I have enjoyed meeting and mentoring young couples at the Couples’ Retreats. But, I haven’t been an usher yet!”
“Whether I am at work in the corporate world serving as a flight attendant, a General Mills Tour Guide, or filling prescriptions, it is my responsibility and opportunity to demonstrate the importance of honesty, integrity, and compassion just as I am blessed to share talents at Westwood. While I haven’t joined husband Paul in the Choir, I sing in the congregation.”
“I know there are many more opportunities for me at Westwood. There are more cups to fill; just as I am filled by the people of faith in this place. I am not “special,” but it is SPECIAL to be a part of God’s team at Westwood.”
