Pastor Duane Rodewald

Pastor Rodewald hails from south-central Minnesota, where he attended a bustling Lutheran Elementary School and Martin Luther Academy in New Ulm, MN. His school moved to Prairie du Chien, WI, where he graduated in 1981. He continued his education at Northwestern College in Watertown, WI, and then at Wisconsin Lutheran Seminary in Mequon, WI, graduating in 1989.

During his vicar year at St. Mark in Green Bay, WI, Pastor Rodewald married his beloved Karen in 1988. Their journey then took them to Saginaw, MI, where he served as a tutor at Michigan Lutheran Seminary, even stepping in as acting Dean of Students. After two and a half years, he answered a call to a large congregation in Tomah, WI, serving from 1991-1996, before returning to Michigan Lutheran Seminary as Dean of Students from 1996-2004. In January 2004, Pastor Rodewald joyfully accepted the call to serve at Abiding Peace Lutheran Church.

Pastor Rodewald and Karen have shared 30 wonderful years together, blessed with three sons. Lucas is a Professor of English at Georgia Tech University. Daniel shepherds his flock at Paradise Valley Lutheran Church in Phoenix, AZ. Joseph, and his wife Hannah are both teachers at Divine Savior Academy in Texas.

The Rodewalds are passionate about sports, movies, and exploring the ever-growing Greenville area. Their story is one of dedication, love, and a shared commitment to faith and family.

Simpsonville Pastor

Vicar Charles Ungemach

Charlie Ungemach is currently serving as vicar while entering his third year of pastoral training at Wisconsin Lutheran Seminary. A 2014 graduate of Martin Luther College, Charlie began his ministry journey by teaching elementary students in Milwaukee’s inner city. More recently, he worked part-time with Truth in Love Ministry, focusing on outreach to Mormons with the gospel.

He is also the host of The Gird Up Podcast, where he interviews Christian men and ministry leaders to encourage and equip believers for life and service in God’s kingdom. Outside of ministry, Charlie enjoys hiking, fishing, classic films, and reading. He also officiates varsity basketball and has spent many years coaching youth sports.

Charlie looks forward to serving through preaching, teaching, visiting, and growing in God’s Word alongside the congregation. He welcomes prayers as he continues to be shaped into a faithful servant of Christ.

Simpsonville Vicar

*A vicar is a candidate for ordained pastoral ministry, serving in an internship in the third year of seminary training. At the end of the year of vicarage, the candidate returns to seminary and completes a final year of studies. After being issued a call or assignment, the candidate is ordained as a pastor in the ministry of Word and Sacrament.