Leadership

Staff

A native of Ohio, Elizabeth (Beth) grew up in a farming community, and the church was an integral part of her early formation. She learned to craft worship at an early age under the mentoring of her pastor and felt a strong urge to pastoral ministry during a revival led by Harry and Joanne Yates (Johnny Cash’s sister).

With a varied background in ministry and secular work, Pastor Beth brings a wide range of skills to the church to aid in sharing the Good News of the Gospel in winsome ways. She spent her early years in ministry as a church musician/choral director in a variety of denominational settings so appreciates good theological reflection and a blended worship service.

“Faith in God’s mercy and grace has permeated my life,” Beth explains. “I have truly found God’s mercies to be ‘new every morning’. Time and again, I have experienced the renewing of the mind and the resurrection of life that comes when the Holy Spirit breathes on my life. It is my greatest joy to unveil the mysteries of faith and to expound on the unfathomable depth of God’s love.”

PB, as she prefers to be called, has an extensive history of transformational ministry founded on the biblical principles of genuine hospitality, sacrificial giving, and courageous testimony. These principles are the foundation of her doctoral thesis that centers on these joyful expressions of faith exhibited by the people of Malawi (Africa) and witnessed and explored in the context of the book of Philippians and the Pittsburgh-Malawi Partnership.

She earned her Master of Divinity degree from Pittsburgh Theological Seminary and a Doctor of Ministry degree at The University of Dubuque Theological Seminary with an emphasis on missional spirituality. Her undergraduate degree was earned at Lee University with a Bachelor of Science degree in Natural Science with teaching certification.

The Session

The Session is the governing board of the church, made up of Elders nominated and elected to Session by the congregation.

John Bates	Shari Bennett	Laurie Brownson
Ginny Fiddler	Sarah Heideman	John (Biz) Klingenfus
Todd McCray	JoAnn Scott	Denise Kennedy Sims

The Board of Deacons

The office of Deacon is one of sympathy and service following the pastoral example of the Lord Jesus. Deacons minister to those who are in need, to the sick, to those who need a friend, and to any who may be in distress. Deacons are under the supervision of and authority of the session.

Deborah Ashworth	Kathy Fraley	Judy Friel
Kurt Heideman	Sarah Hostetter	edie Tanner
Carol White