Where the Lord leads: Rev. Douglas Breite talks about 10 plus years at Trinity Lutheran

The Rev. Douglas Breite has been learning to play bridge for the last nine years, he is a lifelong fan of the St. Louis Cardinals (his cat's name is Albert) and he is the administrative pastor at Trinity Lutheran Church in Cape Girardeau. Breite's wife, Christine, taught fifth grade at Trinity Lutheran School in the 1980s. When they met through mutual friends, he was a pastor in Warren, Mich. "She always said that if the Lord led us in this direction, she very much enjoyed the people of Southeast Missouri and the good Christian folks at Trinity," Breite said. Breite has served at Trinity since 1999.

Question: How did you decide that being a pastor was for you?

Answer: My mom had been seriously ill when I was growing up, and I was always impressed with the Christian care provided by our pastor and Lutheran teachers. As an adult, when I heard there was a shortage of pastors, I felt that the Lord had given me the gifts necessary for this vocation.

Q: How do you hope to help people in your role at Trinity Lutheran?

A: The greatest need that people have is their need to know Jesus Christ as their Savior from sin, death and the power of Satan. Through our radio and television broadcasts, through preaching and teaching and caregiving, the greatest help that I can offer is to share the love of Jesus.

Q: What do you hope to accomplish at your church?

A: Trinity Lutheran Church, School and Early Learning Center (ELC) provide many opportunities for sharing the good news of Jesus. We are currently enhancing worship by expanding our technology/multimedia ministry. We have made amazing renovations at our school and hope to continue improving our facilities.

Q: What is the most rewarding part of your job?

A: People invite me into their lives at some of their most joyous moments as well as at some of their most challenging times. What a privilege. It is tremendous to see God's word changing lives, giving hope in Christ.

Q: What's your favorite verse and why?

A: "Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make your path straight." (Proverbs 3:5-6) Isn't it comforting to know that our good Lord leads and guides us through life? We simply follow him in faith and trust.

Q: Where do you find strength and support to minister and help others?

A: Certainly our strength to accomplish anything in this life comes from the Lord who works through word and sacrament. My family is a tremendous support to my ministry. The time that I spend with my wife and children is my greatest earthly blessing.

Q: What would you say has been your greatest achievement since taking this position?

A: I believe that the church is the people. I have been especially thankful that our congregation enjoys a renewed enthusiasm for ministry and service. Trinity members joyfully serve in a variety of areas, from our youth ministry to our Trinity Travel group to numerous volunteer activities at our school and ELC. We truly minister with people of all ages.