Meet Todd Shiverdecker

August 28, 2025 // By interviewer Sarah Hardin

In this heartfelt episode of People of the ‘Burg, Pastor Sarah sits down with Todd Shiverdecker to explore his faith journey, his deep roots in church life, and the powerful role community has played in shaping his walk with Christ.

Todd’s story begins in a small United Methodist church where his grandmother—his spiritual rock—instilled in him the importance of faith. Though his church attendance varied through the years, it wasn’t until he and his wife Donna found their home at Ginghamsburg Church that his faith truly deepened.

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Todd shares how a simple invitation to serve on the media team turned into a meaningful ministry. With no prior media experience, he and Donna dove in, learning new skills and building lasting relationships. “It’s a great group of people,” Todd says, reflecting on the impact of serving alongside others who are passionate about worship and technology.

Another cornerstone of Todd’s spiritual life is his long-standing life group, born out of a 2005 Followers Life class. What started as a small gathering has grown into a tight-knit community that has walked through life’s highs and lows together—weddings, funerals, illnesses, and celebrations. “I couldn’t do life without them,” Todd says. “More so even than Ginghamsburg, I couldn’t do life without that group of people.”

The group meets twice a month at Todd’s farm, diving into video-based Bible studies, discussing sermon notes, and serving together—most recently with the Isaiah 117 House. Their bond is a living example of the Acts 2 church: doing life together, supporting one another, and growing in faith.

When asked what advice he’d give to someone new in their faith, Todd offers this wisdom: “Trying to be the hands and feet of Jesus is where you’ll find joy. Seeing good things happen to others that you had a small part in—that’s where the real joy is.”

Todd’s story is a beautiful reminder that faith grows through service, community, and a willingness to say “yes” to God’s call—no matter where it leads.

When someone tells their stories of how God has worked and continues to work in their lives it speaks to our hearts.  We begin to feel a connection to them and see them in a new light.  It is with that truth in mind that we created  “People of the ‘Burg.”  It is our hope that you will get to know your neighbor, see a member of the church family in a new light and possibly find unity in your struggles and faith.
Sincerely- The Interviewing Team
Dan Bracken- John Jung- Kate Johnsen-Sarah Hardin