Vocational Elder; Pastor for Child & Youth Discipleship, Downtown Campus

Campus: Downtown

• Ministry Assistant: Suzy Plocher (612-338-7653 x482)

Bud Burk lived in Southern California until he came to Bethlehem in January 2008.

He was born into a believing family who faithfully attended a Brethren Church in East Los Angeles. There was evidence of grace in the early years of his life, but it was not until his late high school years that he experienced deep conviction of sin, a renewed interest in spiritual things, a heart for missions work, and compassion for the suffering Church. Although it is difficult for Bud to pinpoint exactly when he was born again, one thing he knows for sure: “Today, by God’s grace, I trust in Jesus and his work for me on the cross.”

In 1985, Bud received Bachelors in Christian Education from Biola University in La Mirada, California. After graduation, Bud went to work in his family’s steel fabrication business while becoming actively involved in ministry to children at Whittier Hills Baptist Church.

The 13 years that followed were formative years. The Lord gave Bud a passion for ministry to children and families that became evident over time to the leadership of the church. His responsibilities at the church grew. He was eventually offered an internship, and later was called to serve at Whittier as Pastor of Parent and Children’s Discipleship (1998-2007).

During those, and now at Bethlehem, Bud has proved himself as an effective, deeply loved pastor with an unmistakable call and proven gifts in ministry to children and to the parents and adults who are investing in their lives. He has the heart of a shepherd, a love for truth, a faithful devotion to his wife and children, and an ability to get things done. Most important, he has an obvious love for Christ that overflows in blessing to others.

Bud and his wife, Lisa, have been happily married since 1987. They have two children, Tom and Charlotte.