Paula Thistle

Chaplain Paula grew up in western Pennsylvania, near Pittsburgh. An only child with a single Mom, from her early childhood she felt the call to serve our Lord; however, the path was not straight. Faith formation was strengthened with yearly adventures at Camp Lutherlyn.  In her teen years, Paula thought of becoming a missionary, carrying God’s word to “those who have not heard.”   Instead, she married and for twelve years was a wife and mother.

Then on her own, and with two young sons, she settled in Maryland. Then, for 35 years she worked for a major health insurance company, working in customer service before advancing to marketing assistant.  She supervised twelve agents in the collections unit for two years, worked as a systems analyst, then became Legal Coordinator, providing documents and live testimonies, representing the company in court.  When her sons were grown and while still working in DC, Paula attended classes the University of Pittsburgh and Averett University where she attained her bachelor’s degree in business administration.  Then it was on to Gettysburg Seminary to pursue her call.

For 22 years Paula served as a chaplain/minister to members of The Community of St. Dysmas (our prison ministry inside the Maryland Correctional System).  She has served in various capacities with the Delaware-Maryland Synod.  Since 2012 she has served as volunteer chaplain for the Maryland Transportation Authority Police. For 10 years Paula served as Per Diem Chaplain at the Johns Hopkins Hospital, from which she retired in 2024.

A member of St. Martin’s since 1977, Paula first became a chaplain here in April, 2008, when she was commissioned as an Associate in Ministry, serving as a Minister of Word and Service.  In 2011 she stepped away but was invited back to serve in 2017.   She especially enjoys working with children and sharing God’s light with all.  She continues leading a weekly Bible study.

Why?  Recently, while perusing her library Chaplain Paula opened a book from long ago (1995).  Inside the front cover she had noted, “I heard Him say, “Come, follow.”  That was all.”