Meet Greg Braatz
A big hello to members and friends of First Presbyterian of Oconto!
I asked for the opportunity to introduce myself to you even before we begin our ministry together. As you may have read in the church newsletter, your session has hired me to be your quarter-time pastor starting January 1, 2026, and I couldn’t be more excited!
I grew up in Minnesota. Attended Luther College, in Decorah, Iowa, and got a degree in Politics. Along the way I also attended the University of Nottingham, England (and yes, I did meet the sheriff). Got my MBA from the University of Minnesota in Marketing. My certification to be a Commissioned Ruling Elder from Dubuque Theological Seminary.
After getting my MBA, I accepted a position at Kimberly-Clark, where I worked for 30 years. I held a variety of jobs in marketing and sales support. I worked on some of KC’s largest brand (Huggies and Kleenex) and called on some of the biggest retailers in the country (Walmart, Target, Sam’s, Costco and Walgreen’s). After retiring from KC, I worked as a Commissioned Ruling Elder at my home church in Appleton. In this position I led worship once a month, taught Adult Education and coordinated outreach programs. After retiring from that, I worked with the Presbytery, helping small churches who were without the leadership of a Minister of the Word and Sacrament. I did pulpit fill, moderated session meetings and helped sessions discern where they were headed.
Blessings,
Pastor Greg
Micah 6:8 “What does the Lord require of you, do justice, love kindness and to walk humbly with your God.”
