Strong Woman Conference at Five Lakes Church

Bonnie studied Human Services at Northwest State Community College, and Ministerial studies at Epic Bible College in Sacramento California. Her love for people and desire to see them walk in the freedom of Christ has been the cornerstone of her life; She has worked with pregnant mothers in crisis as the Client Services Manager at Alternatives Pregnancy Center, as well as with children and families in her role as Administrative Assistant at Capital Christian Elementary, both in Sacramento, CA. Bonnie was the Director at Rebekah’s Haven, our shelter for single moms with small children from 2021 until being named as Executive Director in 2023. As a licensed minister in the state of Ohio, Bonnie’s passion for the Word of God and seeing lives changed through the truths of its pages defines her approach to ministry and beyond. She has a deep desire to see people give their lives to Jesus Christ and experience His redemptive love. 

Betty’s married to her best friend, Jim, and they’re the proud parents of two amazing kids and three adorable grandkids who keep life full of love and laughter. She’s also an outdoors enthusiast — gardening, hiking, and running are her therapy. Whether she’s planting seeds in her garden or in her community, Betty brings energy, kindness, and a whole lot of heart to everything she does.

A devoted wife and proud mom of two, she is a passionate clinical mental health therapist with a heart for service and over 2 decades of experience in ministry. Since the age of 17, she has faithfully served in various roles including worship leader, administrative support, and student ministries, bringing both compassion and leadership to every area she touches. When she’s not supporting others through her therapeutic work or ministry, she finds joy in vacationing with her family, sipping bubble tea, baking and decorating sweet treats, and indulging in the occasional spa day to recharge and relax.

Kennedy serves as Five Lakes’ Student Ministry Assistant and Manager of Chandler Cafe in downtown Sylvania. She graduated from Cedarville University in 2020 with a BA in Christian Education & Youth Ministry, then later earned a MA in the same field from Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary. She’s originally from Indiana, but moved here 4 years ago to marry her husband, Dan. Some of her favorite things include reading/writing, being outdoors, cold brew, beating Dan at Scrabble, and snuggling with their dog, Toad!

Together, Paula and Jeff lead a Sunday morning Bible study group and have loved serving in various areas of the church. Paula is currently involved in Kids Ministry, visiting shut-ins, and participating in the church’s prayer partner ministry. A believer for many years, she has a deep love for God’s Word and has served as a group leader with Bible Study Fellowship for nearly three decades.

She is both excited and humbled to be part of the Strong Woman Conference, where she will be sharing about the life and legacy of Abigail.