Rev. Charlene Wozny will join the staff of Countryside Community Church as our Interim Minister for Congregational Care beginning June 3.
Rev. Wozny’s relationship with Countryside spans decades—she first joined the church shortly after moving to Omaha from Kansas in 1970. She met her husband, Jim, and was married in Countryside’s Chapel almost 50 years ago. Her deep roots in our community and her lifelong commitment to care and service make her a natural fit for this interim role.
Charlene’s journey to ordained ministry followed a winding and grace-filled path. She began her professional life as a nurse, later earning a Master’s in Counseling and serving as Coordinator for the Adult Day Treatment Program at Immanuel Mental Health Center. She completed her Master of Divinity at United Theological Seminary of the Twin Cities in 2000. She’s served in various ministry roles since then, including pulpit supply and leading Clergy Boundary Training Workshops. Following her retirement, Charlene remained active at Countryside, particularly in the worship planning committee. She is currently a member of First Central Congregational United Church of Christ in Omaha.
In her part-time role as Countryside’s Interim Minister for Congregational Care, Rev. Wozny will provide spiritual and emotional care to our community during this time of transition. She will support visitation, lay care ministries, and help us respond to congregational needs with compassion and presence. She will work collaboratively with staff, clergy, and lay leaders to foster a culture of empathy, connection, and care.
Rev. Wozny will be with us in worship two Sundays a month and hold office hours on Tuesdays and Thursdays. You can also call the church office to schedule a pastoral care appointment with Rev. Wozny. She looks forward to supporting Countryside during this time of pastoral transition.
Charlene and Jim enjoy spending time with their family—especially their great-grandchildren—and heading out into nature with their travel trailer whenever they get the chance.
Please join us in warmly welcoming Rev. Charlene Wozny back into ministry life at Countryside. We are grateful for the gifts she brings and for the steady, compassionate leadership she will offer in this important season.
With hope and gratitude,
Rev. Dr. Jenny Shultz-Thomas, Sr. Minister
Countryside Community Church