If you can hear a smile coming down the hall, it belongs to Cynthia Petersen, brimming over with enthusiasm, commitment to her kids and the people who volunteer for her. Cynthia is the pastor of the Early Childhood Education Ministry here at LBCF.

Recently she expressed that the number one priority in her ministry is to take the time to hold each child and be with them in a way that communicates their value. She is also looking forward to establishing connection with each volunteer in a relational way. Cynthia has taken the Core Values of LBCF and made them an integral part of her life and ministry. If you need a word of encouragement or affirmation Cynthia is just the person you're looking for.

Cynthia's ministry includes Nursery (newborn - 18 months), Little Lambs (18 months - 3 years) and Preschool (3-5 years). She has attended LBCF since 1991. Ten of those years spent working in Children's Ministry. She has been on Staff since 2001.

Cynthia has been a preschool teacher since 1983 and was educated at Long Beach City College. She received certification as a childbirth educator in 1980. She has been working with the Long Beach Parks Department since 1983, teaching classes called "Baby Dance" and "Pregnancy Fitness". During one season of her life she worked for New Life Beginnings Mother's Home in Long Beach and was blessed to take part in hundreds of labors and deliveries.

In May of 1983 she asked Jesus to be her Savior, and He changed her life forever. Soon after that, she received a calling when her pastor spoke a word over her that she was called to teach children. From that moment on, the direction of her life changed and her heart is to serve the Lord by serving families and children.

Gene Petersen came into her life and they have been married since 1994. They live in Long Beach and Cynthia has a son, Jeffrey and her grandson, Samuel.

Cynthia has been a blessing to many here at LBCF.