MEET THE TEAM

Carla Hodgson Profile

      My name is Carla Hodgson I was born and raised in Grand Rapids, MN. I was baptized and grew up in the Christ Episcopal Church. My mother raised me with her values and influenced me with her strong faith. My maternal grandmother has strong Episcopal roots so it just feels natural to continue on the same path.

      Before the age of 20, I was married and the mother of two children Mickey and Kayla. We had our whole lives ahead of us until a tragic car accident changed everything with the loss of my husband.   Although I had complete support from my parents, family, friends, and church; I was left with devastation, loneliness, and a lot of decisions to make about my future . I can safely say that this was and has been the hardest thing that I have ever been faced with. I went through all of the stages of grieving over and over again. I was sad and angry for what seemed would be an eternity. When I completely exhausted every emotion I had, I was able to let God in to my heart again. I was then able to begin to heal and move on with my life.

      I had only ever worked part-time and did not have a lot of experience out in the work field. With children of the ages 2 and 3 to think about I needed to gather what strength I had and move forward. I decided to take the Nursing assistant course at Itasca Community College. This was the first step in a nursing degree in which I planned to achieve. I then met and married Jody, my current husband and we had two children together; Bria and Hannah. I found happiness again.

      I have always worked with people who have disabilities. It has given me great satisfaction but at the same time I wanted to continue with my education. It was only natural to pursue a degree in nursing which I accomplished with a one year nursing degree. I am currently employed at Maple Woods Assisted Living. I enjoy this tremendously especially since the admit of my grandmother. I feel very fortunate to be able go to work daily, see my grandmother and know that her needs are being met. I do plan to finish my nursing degree in the near future.

      Total Ministry has brought me a sense of overwhelming closeness to God. I feel that I have been called to participate and to give all that I have, guided by God’s will. I was told that the diaconate position fit my personality. I have a very strong sense of justice, believing that no one should ever be mistreated. I am not afraid to stand up for what is right.