Craig Daily Press

One closing led to an opening for Karen Gibson.

In March, the Community United Methodist Church of Oak Creek decided it would not remain open. That left Gibson, the pastor for the church for seven-and-a-half years, without a church.

"The costs to stay open, like propane bills, were mounting," Gibson said. "We could have stayed open for six more months, but they decided it was time now."

The closing gave Gibson a chance to explore her options. She decided to use her ministerial calling to join her husband, Phil, in Craig.

In July, she joins Phil to help co-pastor Craig's Friendship United Methodist Church.

"It was a natural opportunity that we entertained with the church," Karen said. "The (United Methodist) district supervisor approved the move, and I think the church was interested in having someone who could be around more during the day."

Neither Gibsons have been full-time in their ministry rolls. Phil, who is a Federal Coal Mine Inspector, has continued to work a full-time job during his 15 years at Friendship, and Karen was considered quarter-time at Community. Together, Karen hopes they can provide more of a full-time service.

"I'll be around more during the day and more available to the community than Phil has been because of his job," Karen said. "I also feel like a strength of mine will be with the children."

She already is involved in Craig in both aspects. She is the director for SHARE Craig, a program that offers low-cost groceries to residents. She also has been involved with the youths at both churches, and she is going to help with an upcoming ecumenical Vacation Bible School.

"She's good with youth, and I could see that's where she will really add," said Lyndi McDermott, who has helped Karen with the Friendship youth group.

Karen said she and Phil plan to trade time in the pulpit.

"Phil is gifted at proclaiming the Word," Karen said. "He relates well to the community because he's out there working with them."

Co-pastoring with a spouse is a unique situation, and Karen said she and Phil are excited to give it a try.

"We have some friends who do the same thing, who we're learning from," Karen said. "I'm excited about being in Craig and seeing what God will do as we minister together."