Our Mission & Vision
Big Shoe Ranch Ministries is a Christian based ministry created to offer a peaceful place of refuge as well as a place where a soul can heal through the connection and life lessons given to us by one of God's most beautiful creations - The Horse! So much of the time a broken life or broken heart is sadly overlooked because it is not so easily identified as broken or in need of healing. Our vision is to provide a peaceful sanctuary, using the ranch, our volunteer staff, and our horses, where a soul can be quieted, healed if needed, and restored to joy and tranquility for life's journey.
Our vision is to provide a safe-haven for individuals where they can step out of life's pressures, difficult situations, or life altering challenges, and encounter the healing power of God, gain or regain their joy, and experience the amazing healing power of one of God's most powerful animals - the horse - aka our "Team of Angels" (See "Team of Angels" on our FB page for pics and bio's of each). Each encounter includes organic conversations about our life's journeys, growth and encouragement in our understanding of God our Father and of course time with the horses. Key values that drive this organization are Godly character, faithfulness, and dedication which our amazing staff clearly embodies. We strive to define and build these character values in each individual as we build on their understanding of life lessons from the Bible.
Our Angels
Jake
Jake is our OG. He is our Drum (Gypsy/Shire) who is known as The Boss. With Mounted Patrol experience, Jake keeps everyone in line and stays gentle and respectful at the same time. He is the definition of a good leader!
Jasmine
Jasmine is our Drum (Gypsy/Shire) Queen Bee who is also the biggest mama's girl. Although she can be quite stubborn like all mares, she has a sweet, gentle spirit that you can sense just being around her.
Thor
Or should we say Fabio? Thor is our Drum (Gypsy/Shire) that is known for all that hair! (psst he's also got a mustache.). His gentle demeanor makes it easy to love him!
Bravo
Bravo is our free-spirited Percheron/Thoroughbred. His spunky demeanor and expressive attitude makes him fun to watch and giggle at!
Sebastian
Sebastian is our Gypsy baby of the group and he fully lives up to that name! He's quite goofy and always wants to be included. Only child? He'll be the little brother you never had!
Cinnamon
Cinnamon is our grandma of the group. She is a 33 years old Quarter Horse who loves being at the "spa". She loves to get pampered with brushing and scratches (and of course extra treats)!
Tessa
Tessa is our Friesian beauty who comes from amazingly distinct bloodlines and she was donated to our ministry. She loves to be doted on and loves to spend time with the kids!
We hope you're inspired!
We hope and pray that you are inspired by our Big Shoe Ranch Ministries passion to leave a legacy for all individuals of love, compassion, friendship and faith. Help us change one life at a time ... because all of God's kids matter!
Meet Our Staff/Volunteers
Sheryl Meissner
Owner
Kathleen Mullen
Volunteer
Whitney Meissner
Volunteer
Jenna Christofferson
Volunteer
Caroline Jaakola
Volunteer
Janis Liukonen
Volunteer
Contact & Support
To donate, please scan the Venmo QR code or click the donate button below to give on our GiveSendGo.
Hugo, MN
A Special Thank You
We wanted to give notice to our favorite photographer, Alyssa Smolen. She is extremely talented and has always been great with the horses. It's been a pleasure to work with her over the years and we look forward to more photo shoots in the future!