Annika Gustafson
Annika grew up in the Twin Cities and worked at two different churches before becoming a youth pastor in Paola, Kansas, in 2019. She joined the Next Gen team here at The AG Church in September of 2022, and transitioned to the pastoral staff in January 2024. She is passionate about equipping students and families with the resources and encouragement they need to keep following God in every season. In her free time, Annika likes to play board games, bake, read, and go for walks at Robbins Island.
Fun Fact: In college, Annika studied abroad in Lithuania, and has been to 13 different countries.
Annika’s One-Minute Witness:
“I grew up in the church and always knew ABOUT God, but there was a disconnect between what I knew and what I truly believed. I can point to several instances in my life where God truly captured my heart and turned my attention to Him. Like on a mission trip where I realized that it doesn’t matter what other people think about me because I belong to God and my identity is found in Him. Or at winter camp when I couldn’t sing about God’s love for me because I didn’t believe it, but then I physically felt Him wrap His arms around me and show me how close He is. Or when I was so burned out in life and ministry that I wanted to walk away from Jesus, and at times end my life, but He drew me back to Himself with His patience and kindness. Through all of the ups and downs of life, I can truly say ‘I have decided to follow Jesus, no turning back.’ There are difficult seasons in life, but I know God is right there with me. He can handle all of my questions and doubts and continues to provide all that I need. I recognize my need for a Savior and don’t know how I would live my life without Him. He is the only one that can fill and fulfill me, and I want to continually say yes to Him in every area of my life.”