Annual Local Church Conference 2020 Nominees
Heather Raposa
Secretary
My name is Heather Raposa, and I have lived most of my life in Coffey County, Kansas. I was born in North Carolina, but my step-dad moved us to this area when I was 9, hoping the small-town life and schools would be better for us. I did go to Texas for a while but moved back to the area five years ago after getting divorced.
I work for Coffey County as the Office Manager of the Road and Bridge (Highway) Department and have been there for about two and a half years. The job that got me back to Kansas was the construction of the Waverly Windfarm. I started there before the contractors showed up and before even one windmill went up.
I am currently serving in the Texas Army National Guard but will finish my current contract in December of this year. I will have served for 16 years in the Army, including two tours to Iraq. My military career will end this December. I have been a part of the LWC/RLC family since before the church build in Lamont; I even participated in a couple of work days during the build (I am sure I was my senior year in high school). I have believed in Jesus for as long as I can remember, there isn’t a time in my life when I can remember us not going to church.
About three years ago, I rededicated my life to Jesus, and I believe that is when I really understood the importance of a real relationship with Him. About a year ago, I started taking online classes for a degree in Ministry and Leadership. When deciding on a degree, I knew I wanted something I would be passionate about, which would be relevant to life. I chose this degree path because I want to learn how to answer some of the tough questions, even if I answer them for my sons and me. God has blessed me with two little boys, Ethan (9) and Evan (7), they keep me on my toes, and I am hoping to raise them as God would want me to. Ultimately, I want to be a light for Jesus to my sons, to the church, and to the community. I am excited to see what God’s plans are!
Michelle Henricks
Secretary
I grew up in Osage City, Kansas. My dad built our home in the country, and Mom added her touch with beautiful landscaping. I’m the oldest of three, which was once cool, but now....it just means I’m the old one! Kevin, Kristi, and I are grateful for our simple life growing up that included pulling weeds in the garden, mowing several acres, hanging clothes on the line, helping with cattle, and loving on our horse, Babe.
After leaving home and graduating from Emporia State University, I began teaching fourth grade at Burlington Elementary School. I’ve since become a Title 1 Reading and Reading Recovery teacher. This August will mark my 30th year of teaching at BES. Speaking of old! 😉
Todd and I started attending Lamont Wesleyan Church many years ago with our family. We loved that church with Pastor Steve but chose to transition to their sister church when it began in New Strawn. We’ve been blessed to grow in our faith since then as members of Radiant Life Church. Todd and I were baptized on June 26, 2017, by Pastor Ryan. This rededication of our faith and commitment to following Christ changed the path in our lives. We’ve grown stronger and more in love because of the work He’s done within us. Thank you, God, for your grace and mercy.
I’ve been immensely blessed with being the momma of four amazing children. Although I refer to them as my babies....they’re 25, 23, 20, and 16! We’ve been through many milestones together that I deeply cherish. I’m now the nana of three adorable little boys and am living life with a full heart!
Shalena Rohrer
Trustee
My name is Shalena Rohrer. I’ve lived in Burlington for most of my life. I moved from Peabody, Kansas, in 1989. I became a believer at nine years old when I was praying earnestly in bed one night I felt a large hand pushing down on my covers and immediately felt light and safe. I started going to LWC in 2006. I was married for 18 years, but for the last ten years, I have been a single mother of three (Harrison, Catherine, and Wayne). I am a realtor in Burlington, and I work in Wichita once a week as a bookkeeper for R Phillips Inc.
Derek Bucheit
Trustee
My name is Derek Bucheit. I spent most of my childhood years in the Burlington school district and am a Burlington High School graduate. I work at LeRoy COOP in the Agronomy department and have been there for almost two years. I have been a part of LWC/RLC since February of 2017. The Holy Spirit began working in me at that time, and I have been a firm believer in Jesus ever since. I am married to an amazing wife, Melanie, and have one stepson, Owen. I enjoy spending time with family, gardening and running. Thanks for your consideration.