Pastor Andy
Senior Pastor

Pastor Andy Wendle and his family arrived at First Lutheran in September of 2022.  He has served congregations in Oregon and Montana.  He is a graduate of the University of Wisconsin and Wartburg Theological Seminary.  Together, with his wife Linden and their three children (Charis, Will and Anna) they enjoy traveling, gardening, being outside and visits with family.  He is excited to begin this new chapter in his life and ministry with the good people of First Lutheran Church.

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Pastor Brian
Visitation Pastor

Bio Coming Soon

Brooke Prather
Office Manager

Bio Coming Soon

Connie Dorner
Director of Faith Formation

Connie and her husband, Peter, have been members of First Lutheran for 25 years along with their son, daughter-in-law and granddaughter.  Formerly an elementary music teacher for 33 years in the MPSD, Connie currently enjoys her work with the church's teens and children.  Connie is also involved in First Lutheran's Sunday School, confirmation and youth groups and also enjoys being part of the Chancel Choir. 

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Mark Sikkula
Organist

Bio Coming Soon

Stephanie Bowman
Deacon and Contemporary Music Director

Stephanie Bowman and her family moved to Manitowoc in 2004 and joined First Lutheran when she was hired as the director of contemporary worship in 2010. In 2024, Stephanie was ordained as a deacon in the ELCA and in 2025 attained board certification as a chaplain. In her free time, Stephanie enjoys reading, hiking, gardening, and spending time with friends and family. 

Patti Reilly
Financial Secretary

Patti joined the staff in June of 2025 part-time as Financial Secretary. She and her husband Mike are members of First Lutheran. She has two sons (both confirmed at First Lutheran) and one 10-year old grandson. Her favorite season is of course summer and besides enjoying living on a small inland lake in the Newton area, Door County is near and dear to her heart. A few favorite pastimes: watching her grandson’s Manitowoc Chief Football games, date days with her grandson, going to movies with friends, cheering on the Packers, Brewers and Bucks and occasionally doing some fishing and golfing. She has worked in numerous office positions throughout her career in areas such as financial, sales, shipping, service, travel, and several executive administration assistant positions.