St Stephen Lutheran Church
Staff & Leaders

Kathleen Richter

Pastor Kathleen Richter has served as a pastor in the Lutheran church since 1984. She has served congregations in Ohio, in San Diego, in Downey CA and in Fullerton CA. Ministry has been a passion for her for the last 30 years. She is an experienced teacher, preacher, counselor and has many years experience working with families and youth. She has also served in many community service projects and at one time held the position as Director of Advocacy for Lutheran Social services of Central Ohio. During that time she chaired a statewide media campaign to raise awareness of issues of hunger and poverty. She has served the church in many synodical agencies as well as churchwide appointments. She has been a guest lecturer in colleges and seminaries and has been a guest speaker for many public occasions. She is also the mother of Karl, Kristin and Katie who are all adult children. Karl is a USC grad, also received his MA from SDSU. Kristin is a UCLA grad and Katie presently attends CSULB. Being a parent has been a very important and formative part of her ministry. Prior to entering ministry she taught music, played in symphony orchestras, and received a degree in counseling and psychology. She has a deep interest in mental health issues and a great concern about matters of justice and peace. A deep care for the people and the word of God make her an excellent pastoral care giver. She would say that she is deeply energized by doing the work of the church and proclaiming the Gospel.