In this episode, we sit down with Reverend Sarah Goettsch, a Lutheran pastor whose preaching has inspired communities for over 20 years. A fierce advocate for social justice and an unapologetic ally of the LGBTQIA+ community, Sarah brings both fire and empathy to her ministry. Her journey has been shaped by resilience, courage, and a commitment to standing with those on the margins.
Together we explore her powerful story—from growing up in a conservative faith tradition to breaking barriers as a woman in ministry, to speaking truth to power even when it comes at a cost.
Today we discuss:
- Sarah’s early roots growing up in the conservative Missouri Synod, losing her mother at age 10, and stepping into the role of caretaker for her younger brothers.
- Her all to ministry and how her pastor encouraged her toward leadership, despite the male-dominated church culture.
- Her road to seminary from teaching in Hungary to finally following her deep call to become a pastor.
- The life lessons she learned in Seminary while studying alongside women who redefined her vision of leadership.
- Her personal challenges navigating divorce as a pastor and experiencing the judgment of her congregation.
- Sarah’s belief in speaking truth in preaching and her belief that a pastor’s job is not to condemn, but to remind others of God’s unconditional love.
- We discuss religion, fear, and control and how institutions use fear to control, why church attendance is declining, and the dangers of religion blending with politics.
- Sarah’s courage presiding over a same-sex wedding in a small town, facing backlash, and choosing to stand with the excluded.
- Why she’s drawn to “the edge,” always seeking out those who’ve been pushed aside.
- What she observed working with young women who constantly apologized, and how this robs us of passion and fire.
- Her gift of interweaving scripture with current events, showing up authentically even with fear. Why organized religion isn’t necessary for all, but can still be a meaningful way to wrestle with love, existence, and eternity.
- How after years in male-dominated spaces, Sarah now embraces the support and wisdom of women who see and uplift her.
Sarah’s story is one of grit, honesty, and courage. She challenges us to rethink the role of the church, to confront the ways fear and control shape us, and to live unapologetically in our truth—even when it’s uncomfortable.
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Past Episodes You Might Like with Kate & Betsy:
Episode 40: Anger: Channel the Fire
Episode 107: Jocelyn Davis: Insubordinate
Today’s Episode sponsored by:
Locals Love Us
Kate Moreland Coaching
Dr Yoga Momma
Heartland Yoga
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