Rev. Paul and Genevieve Nelson
Serving the Lord in the Indonesia
Bio
The Rev. Paul and Genevieve (Gena) Nelson serve on behalf of The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod (LCMS) in Indonesia, based in Medan. In this role, Paul works closely with the Indonesian Christian Lutheran Church and helps train and mentor local pastors and lay leaders.
Paul grew up in Mesa, Arizona. He graduated with a bachelor’s degree in history from Arizona State University, Tempe, Ariz., and a Master of Divinity 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 15 years of experience as a senior instructor at the University of Advancing Technology in Tempe, Ariz. In his free time, Paul enjoys reading, writing, traveling, cooking and pocket billiards.
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. Gena’s hobbies include breadmaking, dancing, traveling and tea. The Nelsons have three children: Alec, Mika and Caedmon.
Prayers
Pray for Paul and Gena as they serve in Indonesia. Pray also for each member of the family as they transition to a new location and culture. Ask God to give them patience and confidence as they learn Bahasa Indonesia, the official language of the country. Pray also that they would be able to establish good relationships with the people around them in their new home. Let us give thanks that the Nelson family is serving in this part of the world.
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Additional Information
- Birthday: Paul — March 29, Genevieve — Aug. 7, Alec — May. 27, Mika — Dec. 17, Caedmon — May. 4
- Anniversary: July 8
- Home District: Pacific Southwest
Partner with us
Giving Online: You can partner with the LCMS by making an online gift restricted in use to the support of the NELSON family.
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Giving by Check: You can also make a donation towards the Nelson's ministry by check.
Mail your check, made payable to The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod and designated with their last name, to:
The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod
P.O. Box 66861
St. Louis, MO 63166-6861
(Or call
888-930-4438 to speak with someone.)