Prince of Peace Lutheran Church welcomes new pastor

Pastor Sam Handschke to begin ministry in June

Two people smiling for a selfie in front of a decorative white pavilion.

Pastor Sam Handschke and his wife, Cathy, are preparing to join Prince of Peace Lutheran Church in June.

Submitted

Published May 11, 2026 - 12:45 p.m. Modified May 12, 2026 - 12:40 p.m.

Prince of Peace Lutheran Church in Medina is preparing to welcome Pastor Sam Handschke and his family, ushering in a new season of anticipation, excitement and growth for the congregation.

Pastor Sam, 38, comes to Prince of Peace after serving eight years as the sole pastor of Faith Lutheran Church in South Dakota. He and his wife have four children and share a strong commitment to faith and family.

Pastor Sam is scheduled to begin during the first week of June. Members see his arrival as a blessing, inspired by Jeremiah 3:15: “I will give you shepherds after my own heart, who will lead you with knowledge and understanding.”

In addition to ministry, Pastor Sam enjoys photography and carpentry, bringing a creative and hands-on spirit to his work.

A low church building with a white cross, an empty parking lot, and trees under a blue sky. — Prince of Peace is located at 3355 Medina Road in Medina.

Prince of Peace invites the community to join in welcoming Pastor Sam and his family. With hope for the future, the congregation looks ahead, trusting in God’s promise from Isaiah 43:19: “See, I am doing a new thing!”

Prince of Peace Lutheran Church is located at 3355 Medina Road in Medina. Church services are held Sundays at 8 a.m. for the traditional service and 10:30 a.m. for the contemporary service, with Sunday school at 9:30 a.m. All are welcome.