Rev Paul and Genevieve Nelson
Serving the Lord in the Indonesia
The Rev. Paul A. and Genevieve (Gena) Nelson serve on behalf of The Lutheran Church- Missouri Synod (LCMS) in Southeast Asia, based in Medan, Indonesia. In this role, Paul works with deployed staff, partner churches and partner organizations throughout the region to provide theological training, pastoral mentoring and pastoral care. His work involves extensive travel as he creates and nurtures relationships in a variety of cultures and languages.
Paul grew up in Mesa, Ariz., and holds a bachelor's degree in history from Arizona State University as well as a Master of Divinity degree from Concordia Seminary, St. Louis. Upon ordination, he served as pastor of First Lutheran Church of Camarillo, Calif. (2008-2010), and as pastor of Emanuel Lutheran Church, Santa Barbara, Calif. (2010-2021). He also has over 20 years of experience as a post-secondary instructor and corporate technology trainer. In his free time, Paul enjoys reading, writing, traveling, cooking and pocket billiards.
Gena was born in Goroka, Papua New Guinea, where her family served with the LCMS. She received an associate degree in biblical studies from Lutheran Bible Institute, formerly located in Issaquah, Wash., and then completed a bachelor's degree in behavioral science at Concordia University Irvine, Irvine, Calif. She later founded and directed the International Friendship House in Tempe, Ariz. Gena's hobbies include breadmaking, dancing, traveling and tea. The Nelsons have three children: Alec, Mika and Caedmon.