Biographical sketch for Rev. Craig R. Alwin

I grew up on a farm in southern Wisconsin and started my post-secondary education with an Associate degree in Automotive Technology from Madison Area Technical College in 1989. I received a Bachelors of Science degree in Ministry with Pastoral emphasis from Central Christian College, McPherson KS in 1994. I received a Masters of Divinity from University of Dubuque Theological Seminary in 2006 and accepted my first ordained call as Associate Pastor for Youth and Family Ministries with First Presbyterian Church in Fort Dodge IA .

Relationships are important to me. I have been married since 1998 to my wife and best friend, Kris. We have three children: James, Kathryn and Daniel. Kris is a stay-home mom and works part time as a Registered Nurse. James is in 2^nd grade and loves to ride his bike, play with legos and read. Kathryn is 3 years old and enjoys playing with her brothers and her doll house. Daniel is 18 months old and running all over! We feel truly blessed by the call God has placed in our hearts to serve with First Presbyterian Church in Oconto. Additionally, we are truly excited to become a part of the life and ministry of not only this congregation but the community as well.

Together with life’s joys, we have faithfully struggled through painfully dark valleys. The struggles and celebrations of human life draw us into a deeper relationship with a God who is beyond our human understanding and greatest expectations. Together, as unique parts of the body of Christ, we are to live in mutual support of each other through growing and changing relationships: loving God and loving our neighbors, worshiping God every day.

I am energetic and passionately committed to being a disciple of Jesus Christ, and to therefore disciple others in their faith so that they may love God and live lives anchored in the Word of God. I believe in the Biblical mandate to lovingly, openly and prayerfully approach our differences so as to “provoke one another to love and good deeds” (Hebrews 10:24) and learn more of what it truly means to “walk humbly with your God” (Micah 6:8). The Church needs to be Biblically based, actively engaged in careful theological reflection, and transforming lives through the power of the Holy Spirit. By doing this we share in God’s grace through Jesus Christ by the power of the Holy Spirit and give witness to the Body of Christ, the church alive, now and forever more.

I am excited to be part of this church family, and for you to also be a part of our family.

In Christ,

Pastor Craig