Josh began working as Children’s Ministry Director for Lighthouse in May of 2019. He currently lives in Paola with his wife, Heather, their two daughters, Ruth and Rose, two cats, Simon and Grace, and a Morkie-Poo named Pepper. Josh grew up in Paola, earned his education degree from Emporia State University, and began teaching middle school math in the Shawnee Mission School District for 12 years while living in Olathe. He obtained a master’s degree in Curriculum and Instruction from KU and received theological training by completing the Lay Leadership Training Institute of the Kansas District-LCMS. He returned to Paola in 2013 to work as the Director of Discipleship at First Lutheran Church for four years. Josh then taught Special Education at Lakemary Center in Paola for 5 years and obtained a second master’s degree in Special Education. In the summer of 2022, Josh began working full-time as Children's Ministry Director for Lighthouse and enjoys the increased opportunities to serve children and families in the community with his passion for teaching children about Jesus and helping families foster faith in the home. Josh also served on a leadership team that started a private school for the 2023-24 school year at Lighthouse called Compass Christian Academy and currently serves in the role of Principal.

Josh believes the essential truths of God’s Word are the greatest gifts we can give our children. He desires that each child knows God’s love through the kindness and dedication of caring volunteers. Josh’s goals for Lighthouse Children’s Ministry are that children and families feel welcome, parents feel supported, volunteers willingly serve the gospel, and children hear the good news about salvation through Jesus’ death and resurrection each time we gather.