Meet our Staff
Rev. D.J. Chatelaine, Pastor
Hello, and welcome to First Lutheran Church! My name is D.J. Chatelaine, and I serve as Pastor here. I was called to First Lutheran in August 2024, and have enjoyed getting to know folks in the community. I grew up in Owatonna, went to Duke University in Durham, North Carolina for college, then moved back to Minnesota where I worked in children and youth ministry for a handful of years. I graduated from Luther Seminary in 2024. I am married to Carrie (who is also a pastor) and we have a daughter named Asha. Our dog, Suki, and cat, Dani Rojas, keep things interesting in our home. Some of my passions and hobbies include music, spending time outside, cheering for MN sports teams, history, and getting lost in a good story. I believe God's love is for everyone and that we are called to reflect that love in our everyday lives. I want you to know that you are welcome here and that you are loved for simply being the person God has created you to be. Contact me if you'd like to connect more about life and faith, set up a conversation, or just say hi!
Annette Thunhorst, Administrator
My family and I have attended worship at First Lutheran since 1976. I joined the music staff shortly thereafter and continued to serve in various capacities throughout the years. I have been an Administrative Assistant since 2019. I like keeping busy — there are always new things to learn every day. Some of my Happy Favorites besides formatting & piano are: reading, sudoku, ‘Castle’ and ‘Twilight Zone’ reruns. I am fascinated by angels, butterflies, hummingbirds, dragonflies, and bats too. I also love puppies, but don’t have one.
Bryana Lothert, EdYou Coordinator
Greetings! I was hired as Youth Director in 2023, and have been enjoying every minute of it! I spent 10 years as a dental hygienist until I decided to open an in-home childcare in January 2023. My husband Brent and I have two daughters and enjoy the excitement, love, and challenges they bring. I am grateful for this opportunity, to build relationships, and support our children during their walk with Christ, regardless of where they are in their journey. I enjoy learning alongside the kids of our church, offering a listening ear, sharing lessons learned, and giving encouragement along the way. I enjoy spending time with my family, traveling, weekends at the cabin and reading! My favorite bible verse is: “Surely your goodness and love will follow me all the days of my life, and I will dwell in the house of the Lord forever.” ~ Psalm 23:6