Meet Our Leaders
KATHIE MOWER
State Director
Kathie Mower has been involved in Released Time Bible Education for more than twenty-three years, serving in a variety of roles that reflect her deep commitment to students and the gospel. Her journey began in Huntington County, Indiana, when she stepped in as a substitute teacher for By the Book Weekday Religious Education. That initial opportunity soon became a long-term calling, and she went on to teach 3rd and 4th-grade students for 17 years. For ten of those years, Mower also served as the program’s Executive Director, helping guide its growth, strengthen community partnerships, and equip volunteers to reach children with God’s Word.
Today, Mower continues her service as a volunteer with By the Book and as a board member of the Associated Churches of Huntington County, which oversees the program. Having grown up on a family farm, she still works the land alongside her son and treasures the values of faith, hard work, and perseverance. Her commitment to ministry extends to her local church, where she serves on the missions team and helps regularly at the community food pantry.
Family is a central joy in Mower’s life. She delights in spending time with her seven children and 19 grandchildren, celebrating God’s goodness through the gift of family. Beyond her local community, Mower is honored to serve with School Ministries Indiana, where she helps other Released Time programs launch and grow. She finds great fulfillment in encouraging leaders, sharing her experience, and witnessing God open doors for His Word in schools across the state. Kathie’s faithful service and enduring passion make her a vital part of the Released Time movement, as she continues to help students encounter the life-changing message of Jesus.
BEN RUPRECHT
Assistant State Director
Ben Ruprecht began his ministry in 2009 as a children’s pastor, serving more than 350 students each week with energy and passion. After nearly a decade in that role, he felt called to unite and equip Christians to work together with greater impact. That vision came into focus in 2019, when Ruprecht discovered Released Time Religious Instruction—a model that perfectly combined his love for outreach and collaboration. Recognizing its potential to reach students who might never attend church, he stepped in wholeheartedly and has remained devoted ever since.
Over the past six years, Ruprecht’s leadership has helped launch more than 50 new Released Time programs across the country, from Los Angeles to Green Bay to Naples. With both urgency and vision, he works to see all 50 million public school students gain access to Bible education during school hours. He believes Released Time is one of the most effective strategies for evangelism and discipleship today and continues to champion it as a movement that can shape a generation.
Ruprecht is known for his ability to encourage and equip others, walking alongside local leaders, churches, and volunteers to help programs grow strong and sustainable. His enthusiasm and practical guidance have made him a trusted partner for ministries nationwide.
At home, Ruprecht lives in Fort Wayne, Indiana, with his wife, Holly, and their three children. When not traveling for ministry, he prioritizes family life—enjoying the outdoors, building traditions, and creating lasting memories. For Ruprecht, this calling is more than a career; it is a life’s mission to help students encounter the hope and truth of the gospel.
