Our Leadership

Fr. Kevin Anderson

Pastor

763-389-2115 | Ext. 936

Fr. Kevin has been pastor of Christ Our Light since its inception in 2010. He believes that Christ dwells in everyone and in everything. His passions include canoeing, singing, running, movies and generally to be with people.

What is your favorite thing about COL?

"What I love most is the friendly and welcoming attitude toward all people."

Mark Barder

Deacon

763-263-1937

Deacon Mark was ordained in 2008. He and his wife, Mary Beth, have two married children and a grandson.

Mark has been involved in church work for over 40 years. You can often find him sharing conversation, laughter and prayer with people in the parish.

Mark loves ministry, laughter, and embracing life—never taking a moment for granted.

David Badger

Director of Parish Operations

763-265-4928

David oversees the business side of the parish, managing HR, finances, building project and various committees. His 32 years in manufacturing and supply chain have prepared him well. He enjoys time with family and friends, volunteering and finding quiet moments for reflection and growth in his faith and leadership.

What is your favorite thing about COL?

“I love our mission – and being with a community of people that bring it to life.”

Maureen "Mo" Putnam

Director of Music & Liturgy

763-265-4930

Mo blends diverse musical styles to create meaningful liturgies and selects music that aligns with scripture and tradition. She directs three choirs, coordinates mini-concerts, and mentors musicians. She plays gigs, and enjoys gardening, painting, and time with family.

What is your favorite thing about COL?

"I love teaching and sharing music. Music has the power to transform–encouraging hope, growth, faith and relationships."

Matthew Kehrer

Coordinator of Youth & Young Adult Ministry

763-265-4931

Matt is passionate about helping young people grow in their faith and deepen their relationship with Christ. Matt's greatest joy is simply enjoying life with his wife and children.  In his free time, he enjoys fishing, all things outdoors, sports, and quality time with family and friends. 

What is your favorite thing about COL?

"This parish has so many people who have their faith rooted in joy! There is such a spiritual wealth that comes from joy that's anchored in God's love."

Molly Weyrens

Pastoral Associate

763-265-4929

Molly was once asked what she wanted to do with her life and answered, “Wear casual clothes, work outside and teach.” Their response was, “Oh, so you want to be Jesus?!” Molly's vocation allows her to do those things and more (minus the Jesus part)! She offers pastoral care and support and enhance outreach efforts.

"I love this welcoming community, where I can think creatively and help grow faith alongside a talented, fun staff, as well as collaborate with churches on outreach."

Kevin Sharpe

Director of Faith Formation

763-265-4933

After 20 years as a professor and a decade as a parishioner, Kevin joined the staff in 2024. He believes faith formation is about deepening love for God and following Christ. He is studying New Testament at the UofM and enjoys time with family, attending concerts, watching murder mysteries and romcoms.

What is your favorite thing about COL?

"That's easy: All are Welcome here!"

Jenny Adams

Communications Coordinator

763-265-4932

Jenny uses her talents with all forms of media from print to digital to engage people in the life of the Church. She enjoys time with family, singing, movies, socializing (she’s uber-extroverted), puns, and a good cup of coffee. 

What is your favorite thing about COL?

"I love how engaging the Mass is— with thought-provoking homilies, dynamic music – it sets the tone for the week."

Nancy Thielke

Ministry Coordinator

763-265-4926

Nancy loves connecting with people, coordinating volunteers, and welcoming new parishioners. An active volunteer herself, she has worked at multiple parishes and is pursuing a Masters in Theology at St. John’s–SOT. In her free time, she enjoys theater, hanging out with friends, and cheering on the Twins.

What is your favorite thing about COL?

"All are welcome here."

Dennis Dehn

Director of Maintenance & Cemetery Groundskeeper

763-265-4935

Dennis grew up in Princeton a member of St. Edward and joined the Christ Our Light staff in 2010. He lives in Zimmerman with his wife, Jackie and has three adult children, four adult step-children, and seven grandchildren.

Dennis enjoys camping, hunting, fishing, motorcycling and repairing things.

Cherie Kammerer

Office Assistant

763-265-4934

Cherie works part-time in the parish office. With years of customer service experience, she found this role a great fit after retiring in 2020. She enjoys camping, gardening, and spending time with her three adult children.

What is your favorite thing about COL?

Cherie loves the vibrant, welcoming atmosphere and staff. She’s inspired by our mission statement that fosters care for our parish and community.

Liz Gleason

Maintenance Associate

Carolyn Burke

Maintenance Associate