Welcoming Our New Assisting Pastor – Installation of Rev. Jon Bischof

On March 22, 2026, our congregation joyfully welcomed and installed our new assisting pastor, Rev. Jon Bischof. Members, fellow clergy, and loved ones gathered for a reverent and meaningful service. Together, we marked the beginning of his ministry among us.

Pastor Bischof brings a strong background of faith and service. He grew up in Texarkana, Arkansas. There, his father worked as a Treasury Agent, while his mother served as an estate sale director and collectibles dealer. He later earned a Bachelor of Science in Environmental Science from the University of Arkansas. Before seminary, he also worked as a research technician for the USDA in Booneville, Arkansas.

Answering God’s call, he then attended Concordia Seminary in St. Louis. There, he earned his Master of Divinity in 1990. In addition, he completed a Master of Sacred Theology (STM) in Exegetical Theology.

Over the years, Pastor Bischof faithfully served several congregations. For example, he served in Heber Springs, Arkansas; Wartburg, Illinois; and Paragould, Arkansas. Most recently, he served in Corning, Arkansas, and Doniphan, Missouri. Although he retired in January, he continues to serve faithfully.

While serving at Holy Cross Lutheran Church in Wartburg, Illinois, he met his wife, Kathrine. Soon after, they married in 1998. Likewise, Kathrine holds a Master’s degree in Exegetical Theology. Currently, she serves as the Izard County Election Coordinator. Together, they are settling into Melbourne, Arkansas. There, he looks forward to spending time hunting. Meanwhile, their two grown children, Caleb and Susanna, live in Paragould.

After the service, the congregation gathered for a fellowship meal. There, we shared food, laughter, and conversation. As a result, it became a joyful time to celebrate and welcome Pastor Bischof and Kathrine.

We thank God for bringing Pastor Bischof and Kathrine to our church. We also look forward to the work God will do through his ministry.

“The harvest is plentiful, but the workers are few. Ask the Lord of the harvest, therefore, to send out workers into his harvest field.” – Luke 10:2