Paul and Gena Nelson

About

The Rev. Paul A. and Genevieve (Gena) Nelson serve on behalf of The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod (LCMS) in Southeast Asia, based in Medan, Indonesia. In this role, Paul works with deployed staff, partner churches and partner organizations throughout the region to provide theological training, pastoral mentoring and pastoral care. His work involves extensive travel as he creates and nurtures relationships in a variety of cultures and languages.
Paul grew up in Mesa, Ariz., and holds a bachelor’s degree in history from Arizona State University as well as a Master of Divinity degree from Concordia Seminary, St. Louis. Upon ordination, he served as pastor of First Lutheran Church of Camarillo, Calif. (2008–2010), and as pastor of Emanuel Lutheran Church, Santa Barbara, Calif. (2010–2021). He also has over 20 years of experience as a post-secondary instructor and corporate technology trainer.
Gena was born in Goroka, Papua New Guinea, where her family served with the LCMS. She received an associate degree in biblical studies from Lutheran Bible Institute, formerly located in Issaquah, Wash., and then completed a bachelor’s degree in behavioral science at Concordia University Irvine, Irvine, Calif. She later founded and directed the International Friendship House in Tempe, Ariz. The Nelsons have three children: Alec, Mika and Caedmon.
Pray for Paul and Gena as they serve in Southeast Asia. Pray also for each member of the family as children leave the nest and family dynamics shift and adjust. Let us give thanks that the Nelson family is serving in this part of the world.