Meet the Staff

Elisa Berndt McMullen

Pastor

Born and raised in Baltic, SD, Pastor Elisa earned a Bachelor of Arts in Religion at Augustana University in 2015 and a Master of Divinity at Luther Seminary in 2019. Pastor Elisa first served Trinity Lutheran Church in Arlington, SD before being called to WestSide in June of 2023. Her passions for ministry include worship leadership, preaching, and building relationships, preferably over a good cup of tea. Pastor Elisa enjoys trying new recipes (and taking pictures of them), starting new books (don't ask if they are ever finished!) and corralling her two young children (along with her husband Sam). (That is, Sam helps the corralling!) She's also quite fond of parentheses, because they give her the space to add just one more thought, even when it's completely unnecessary.

Contact Pastor Elisa at elisa@westsidelutheran.com.

Kevin Stillson

Director of Music & Communications

Kevin graduated from Augustana College in Sioux Falls in 2005. He worked at Outlaw Ranch for three summers, and worked for the South Dakota Synod Office before coming to WestSide. The music at WestSide connects tradition with a modern feel. Styles sung include gospel, folk, bluegrass, and traditional hymns all led by acoustic guitar. Kevin lives in Sioux Falls with his wife, Mara, and daughter, Maisy.

Contact Kevin at kevin@westsidelutheran.com.

Ashley Christianson

Volunteer Coordinator

Born and raised in Omaha, NE and the oldest of four children, I adventured out of NE to embark on earning my BA from Augustana College 2008 and MA from USD in 2014. I worked at different positions within the CORP world. I met Devin in 2010, and after becoming a mama of 2 boys (Easton & Mason), my true passion was to be home with them. We love being in the country and enjoy being outside in our free time, constantly going (boys & hunting pups have LOTS of energy). I have enjoyed making memories with them and as they both headed to school this year, I am excited to get back to interacting with adults! 

Contact Ashley at coordinator@westsidelutheran.com.

WestSide Leadership

Church Council

WestSide's Church Council is responsible for overseeing staffing, building needs, finances, and other church operations as they relate to WestSide's mission and values.

Action Team

WestSide's Action Team is responsible for carrying out WestSide's mission through areas of ministry such as faith formation, service, hospitality, and community events.

  • Connie Sivertson

  • Melissa Reichers

  • Lexi Seefeldt

  • Melisa Farke

  • Marilyn Kulm