From a young age growing up in Indiana, Teresa felt a strong desire to “work for Jesus.” She cherished Sunday School and Vacation Bible School—so much so that she attended two each summer: one at her home church and one just across the street. Evenings often found her singing songs about Jesus from the backyard swing, a practice that reflected a heart already inclined toward ministry.

Throughout her life, she has continued to follow wherever God has led, joyfully serving Him in many roles. Her primary ministry has been in education, with additional experience as a coach and dorm parent. In the early 2000s, she joined the Native American Youth Ministries (NAYM) team as Director of Publications and also began helping with monthly Native fellowship meals, both at Judy’s home and at their church.

God later inspired her to start a Bible study for Native women. Through prayer and collaboration, Judy was led to begin a children’s Bible study at the same time—reaching multiple generations with God’s Word.

Today, she continues serving NAYM in behind-the-scenes roles, contributing to publications and assisting wherever needed. She also co-teaches a third-grade Sunday School class and serves as a hall monitor in the children’s ministry at her church.

For over a decade, she has worked in a local Christian school, transitioning from teaching junior and senior high to developing her own Bible curriculum for younger students—an experience she describes as both fun and fulfilling.

One of her life verses is:

“Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge Him, and He shall direct your paths.” — Proverbs 3:5–6 (NKJV)


She reflects on God’s faithfulness through every step—some requiring great faith, others challenging to follow—but all safely within the center of His will.