Pastor Cathy Ward is originally from Lincoln, Nebraska, where she began her journey in pastoral ministry. She has also served in the Michigan and Illinois conferences. As a Nebraskan at heart, she cherishes the clean air, the wide-open countryside, and the warmth of friendly, welcoming people.
Cathy felt the call to ministry many years ago and has faithfully followed that call through various ministries across the conferences she has served. Recognizing a strong desire for full-time pastoral ministry early in life, she pursued this calling while constantly seeking the guidance of the Holy Spirit. After raising her family, Cathy returned to Union College, earning two undergraduate degrees in Religion and Leadership. She is currently pursuing her Master’s Degree in Pastoral Ministry (MAPM) at Andrews University Seminary. Cathy finds joy in sharing Jesus through personal visits, small groups, and preaching the Word.
Cathy and her husband, Michael Ward, serve together as a pastoral team in the Central Nebraska District. Michael, a Revenue Agent for the State of Nebraska, shares in this ministry alongside Cathy. Together, they are blessed with nine wonderful children, all of whom are college graduates.
When asked what guides her personal life and ministry, Cathy shares:
"Over the years, I have studied the Bible diligently, and one verse has been a guiding light for me. Life brings many battles, and I have learned that I do not fight them alone. By being patient, waiting on God, and trusting Him, I have discovered the truth of 2 Chronicles 20:15-17: ‘The battle is not yours, but God’s.’ In every challenge, I stand firm, knowing the Lord is with me."
15 He said: “Listen, King Jehoshaphat and all who live in Judah and Jerusalem! This is what the Lord says to you: ‘Do not be afraid or discouraged because of this vast army. For the battle is not yours, but God’s.
16 Tomorrow, march down against them. They will be climbing up by the Pass of Ziz, and you will find them at the end of the gorge in the Desert of Jeruel.
17 You will not have to fight this battle. Take up your positions; stand firm and see the deliverance the Lord will give you, Judah and Jerusalem. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged. Go out to face them tomorrow, and the Lord will be with you.’
Pastor Cathy and Michael are excited and honored to serve the churches of the Central Nebraska District: Beaver City, Broken Bow, Holdrege, and Kearney. They look forward to walking alongside their congregations, sharing the hope, love, and joy of Jesus Christ.
