Staff Directory

christina.malloy@duluthcatholic.org

Growing up, my family and I came to Brainerd every year and rented a cabin on Whitefish Lake. I never thought I would end up settling down here, but I absolutely love it! My husband Scott and I have 3 kids. We enjoy hunting, fishing and pretty much anything outdoors. I’ve been the CFOO at a construction company for the past 9 years, which I have enjoyed, but I’m looking forward to starting this next chapter that God has called me to. I’m looking forward to being able to share my faith with those around me on a daily basis!

kevin.denny@duluthcatholic.org

I was raised in a large family on small town dairy farm in central Minnesota. After getting my degree from the University of Minnesota, T.C., I moved back to the area where my wife and I with our two boys, have been in the Brainerd Lakes community since 2015. I carry with me a diverse work background, holding many key design, marketing, sales and creative positions for a number of highly successful businesses recognized locally, throughout the U.S. and known internationally. After much discernment, I’ve been spiritually led to this next chapter in my life of joyfully advancing the mission of the Catholic faith.

Aana.Freihammer@duluthcatholic.org

My husband, Brandon, my two children and I moved from the Bemidji area, where I served as Director of Liturgy and Music at St. Philip’s. I grew up in the Brainerd area and attended St. Francis School. After college I became the Director of Liturgy and Music at All Saints in Lakeville.

madeline.kroll@duluthcatholic.org

I was born and raised in the Brainerd Lakes Area and have been blessed to call St. Francis home for the past five years alongside my husband. We were recently married here at St. Francis, making this parish an even more meaningful part of our lives. Outside of the office, I enjoy spending time with my family, hunting, fishing, racing, horseback riding, and reading. Most of all, I love growing in the Catholic faith, deepening my relationship with our Lord and His Blessed Mother, and sharing Christ's light and joy with those around me. It is a blessing to serve the parish community that has become such an important part of our lives.

sue.norling@duluthcatholic.org

II grew up in Coon Rapids and was a 'weekender" in the Crosby area at our cabin. I was in the corporate accounting field for 12 years when I decided I wanted to work for myself. I owned and managed an automotive facility for 15 years and then went into Real Estate. I enjoy it immensely and still do it today. My husband and I wanted a slower paced lifestyle with purpose so we decided to move to the BLA. We enjoy hunting, ice fishing, motorcycling, and the beautiful outdoors! I have been Catholic all my life and have grown stronger in my faith since we have been married. I look forward to what God has called me to do every day and working for St. Francis.

Hello, my name is Luke Baker. I am originally from Brooklyn Park, MN, but our family has been visiting the lakes area for as long as I can remember. I’ve always wanted to live here and we finally made the move in 2013! My wife, Britteny, and our children, Noah, Nathan, and Noelle are parishioners at St. Francis. I am grateful to be part of the team caretaking for our Lord’s home and supporting the mission in building up His kingdom.

Ken.Yaunick@duluthcatholic.org

Hello, my name is Britteny Baker. I grew up in Crosby and moved to Brainerd in 2012 with my parents. In 2015, I met my husband Luke and we got married in 2019. We have 3 beautiful children - Noah, Nathan and Noelle. I used to work as a veterinary technician before becoming a Stay At Home Mom. Recently, the Lord has given me the opportunity to strengthen my faith and give back to the parish and community that has brought so much support and love to our family! 

djohnson@lakescatholic.org

I grew up on a farm just outside of Dickinson, ND, and spent 14 years as a partner in a computer company after graduating high school. I graduated from the Franciscan University of Steubenville with degrees in philosophy and theology. I also spent two years in seminary. I moved to Brainerd in 2011.

bjohnson@lakescatholic.org

My husband Dan and I attend St. Francis Church. Payton is my compassionate, kind, intelligent, and thoughtful son, and Fallon is my caring, generous, funny, and joyful daughter. I have lived in the Brainerd area my entire life mostly because I can’t bear to be away from the water and the woods.

cbadger@lakescatholic.org

I began working for St Francis Parish in 1997 and I currently am blessed to work with the youngest children in all four parishes. My husband Rob and I have four daughters who all attended St Francis School and we are very grateful for the Christ-centered education they received there.

I married Lisa Essington in January 1984 and we have two children. Jennifer, and her husband Andrew Ranweiler, live in Brainerd, along with our four grandchildren! Our son Matthew lives in St. Paul, MN. We moved from Staples to Baxter in 1994. In 1998 we moved to South Long lake.

I was ordained in 1991. I am married to Lori and we have five children. Three of our children are married and two are in religious life. I am a certified spiritual director and conduct a number of retreats, seminars, and in-services, as well as offering spiritual direction.

My wife, Kim, and I retired here after living in Colorado Springs for 37 years. Kim and I have 5 adult children and numerous grandchildren. I was ordained a deacon in 2011 and love serving the family of God through bereavement ministry, adult education and sacramental prep.