Steph Williams O’Brien is the lead pastor of Mill City Church in Minneapolis, Minnesota. She directs the Ministry Scholars Program at Bethel University and hosts a popular leadership podcast, Lead Stories. She will be speaking Monday evening at Midwinter 2026.
Where do you call home these days—and what does community look like for you there?
Urban Minneapolis. I live with my husband and Springer Spaniel, Story. I live within walking distance of about 35 other households from my church, and we are all on a group text to support each other and share resources. We also focus on being good neighbors to others in this post-Christian neighborhood.
What’s a moment when you’ve seen love between people change a situation, a team, or a relationship?
I have seen love change many situations. Recently I was with a team of people who weren’t on the same page on a few things. They took time to remember their “why”—that they were called to love like Jesus and represent him. They were able to overcome their differences and move forward.
What helps you stay open to loving others when life or ministry feels demanding?
Remembering that they are fellow image bearers and asking the Spirit for empowerment.
When the church truly lives out “one another,” what kind of impact do you think becomes possible?
In most cultures in our country, it is countercultural to orient your life around others. We live in a self-centered world. I think it would make a deep and lasting impact for Jesus if we could live differently.
What do you like to bring to the potluck?
I don’t bring anything to potlucks—my husband is the cook!
