Susan Burton
Assistant to Children's Ministries

Job Description:

When I try to put my passion into words, it comes out something like this:  To care and spend time with children to give them a sense of worth through the knowledge of God’s saving grace in Christ Jesus their Lord and Savior.

Psalm 139:14 says, “You are uniquely and wonderfully made.”  Each of us created for His purposes. So being a task oriented person, I truly enjoy the on-going administrative tasks and responsibilities (especially those that require
creativity) that successfully accomplish the vision of leading people (Children too!) in the adventure of becoming like Christ by Bringing Children to Christ One Child at a Time. Children’s Ministry is my sweet spot and it is both a blessing and my heart’s delight to be able to provide the organization and support to both the staff and volunteers that maximizes their passions, their efforts, and their harvest for the Kingdom of God in the areas of their spiritual giftedness.

Describe your family:

Mother of two daughters: Jennifer and Julie. Grandmother of seven: Samantha, Gabriella, Cristian, Mariana, Chase, Lance, and Brody most of whom reside either in Texas or Michigan. Too far away as far as this Nana’s heart is
concerned!

How do you spend your time when not at church:

The best evening of the week is Wednesday Night Clubs because I “get” to be an honorary Mighty Moppet
(4 year olds-Kindergarten) though I come disguised as a teacher/helper. (Shhh...it’s a secret!)

I also have the JOY of being a part of a women’s Life Group in Wakeman where we authentically ‘do life together’. Supporting one another as we learn through study and lots of fun fellowship to love God more deeply, love people more passionately, and live surrendered lives for God’s glory.

I have enjoyed volunteering for Elyria’s Project Read Literacy Program for adults and for Child Evangelism
Fellowship’s After School Clubs here in Elyria.

I love to read. Love studying God’s Word.  Delight in filling my tank by savoring art appreciation through creativity. Treasure my “family time” with sisters, nieces, nephews and creating fun ways to celebrate the family whenever
possible.

Background Information:

I lost both parents by eleven and was raised by one of my loving older sisters (I have three) and we became an
instant family of nine; so I have had the unique experience of being the youngest child, the middle child, and the
oldest child at some point in my growing up experience. Because of these experiences, I have a deep sensitivity to, and understanding of, what hurt and loss feels like, especially for children.

“Jeremiah 29:11  For I know the plans I have for you," declares the Lord, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” NIV

Because of a loving Aunt who faithfully took me to church, I accepted Christ as my Savior when I was nine. How I remember Mrs. Carmen, my Sunday School teacher!  I just have to smile when I think about how her ‘faithfulness to the Lord’ introduced a young, hurting child to the One that would guide, save, and ultimately heal her.

I have worked providing administrative support for 10 years in manufacturing and 20 years in banking, and am now so truly blessed to be able to use my God-given skills to provide administrative support to the directors, staff,
leaders, and servant volunteers who have chosen to love and care for God’s children here at Church of the Open Door.