After an extensive nationwide search, Disciples Home Missions has called the Rev. Laura Ann Phillips to be the director of the Children Worship Wonder & Welcome program, under a recently received $1,240,000 grant provided by the Lilly Endowment, Inc. The search committee felt that Rev. Phillips’s commitment to the fundamental core principles of the program, as well as her insights on how to transform and expand the program in line with the goals of the grant-funded activities, made her an excellent choice to lead this work. She is not only an experienced trainer within the existing program and actively uses the program in her church, she is also a respected leader and a compassionate and committed presence throughout our church.
Rev. Phillips has served at Overland Park Christian Church, in Overland Park, Kansas, as the first woman Senior Pastor in their 75-year history for over 12 years. She also previously served in pastoral roles in Louisiana, Kentucky, and Missouri. No matter the ministry Rev. Laura is involved with, she has sought to create a safe and inviting church for all who are seeking, questioning, doubting, and looking for a relationship with the Divine. Rev. Phillips earned a B.S. in Business Administration, a B.A. in International Relations from the University of Missouri, and a Master of Divinity from Lexington Theological Seminary. Her background and faith journey has colored her commitment to peace, social justice, outreach, storytelling, and the many ways in which people can experience God uniquely and authentically.
Rev. Phillips will begin officially on June 1, 2025, and we look forward to the great work she will do in this new role, as we continue the work of inspiring and ministering with children.
