Village Church Officer Nominees

The nominees presented to you by the Congregational Nominating Committee are listed below along with their responses to the following questions: 
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1. What is the one thing you appreciate about Village?
2. What group or ministry/mission do you participate in that is important to you?

Elder Trustees

​​Terrie Huntington

1. One big thing—it’s difficult to name one, but I appreciate the many opportunities to grow, both spiritually and intellectually.  I try to take advantage of the many classes/seminars/forums that are offered, and hope to attend more in the future.  I’m disappointed when I’m out of town and I miss something I’d like to know more about.
2. I recently served on the Endowment Trust—a very rewarding board.  There are so many in our church who do so much, so selflessly. They inspire me. 

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Janice Newberry

1. It is really difficult to name just one thing because there are so many aspects of Village that are important to me.  I would have to say the #1 thing is the people I have met and friends I have made - just outstanding and spiritually dedicated people.
2. ​Mission. I was fortunate to be able to go on a mission trip to the Arizona/Mexico border in December, 2019.  It was hosted by Frontera de Christo, an organization that serves the migrant population of the area and receives funding from PCU.  It seemed apparent that additional funding would go a long way in providing additional services for the children.  Since that time I have worked with Jim Galliher, Village Presbyterian Church, and Mark Adams, Director of Frontera de Cristo, in developing and submitting grant applications to non-profit foundations.

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Allison Patterson

1. I appreciate that Village is a place where I can receive, give and learn grace for myself and others. I also appreciate that in life's brightest and darkest moments, Village remains a steadfast light leading the way. 
2. Stephen Ministry/Pastoral Care. Over 14 years I have been a caregiver, receiver and telecare caller. My fellow Stephen Ministers have rocked my oldest, been there for my youngest and called ME when I lost my parents. The members I call for telecare become instant family. 

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Elders

Mark Bonavia

1. The one thing I appreciate about Village is the staff’s diligence to a) involve each individual in the mission and ministry of the church, b) translate the Word into a message that has meaning that moves one to think and act, and c) invite people to love one another – inside and outside the congregation – completely and without prejudice.  
2. The Pantry.  Its mission is clear, its efforts to care for the community are above-and-beyond and the staff and volunteers there are committed and loving.  ​

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Charlotte Davison

1. I appreciate the community of Village Church.  The way we felt community a year ago was far different than it is now.  We miss the physical meet and greet of friends and worship in the sanctuary, but Village has done a remarkable job of being innovative in on-line worship, personal outreach, caring for its people, and educational offerings.  Village nurtures our faith while adapting to the challenges of the time and continues to address the needs of our church community and the community outside its walls.  While zooming and streaming, we’ve discovered the church is wherever Village people are.
2. The Social Witness and Advocacy Task Force has given me the opportunity see social issues in a very personal way and to take action on behalf of God’s children who are left behind.  Without my participation in SWATF, I may never have known:  The hospitality of Dreamers at Friendsgiving.  A family whose breadwinner is being deported.  A fast food worker who toils at two part-time jobs to equal 40 hours a week and still doesn’t earn enough to pay the bills.  The tears of a man whose father committed suicide by a gun fifty years ago.  The experience of learning how a working mom relies on SNAP benefits to feed her family at a time when work requirements are being debated by legislators.  How confusing and burdensome it can be for low-income and people of color to vote during a pandemic.  ​

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Jane Goss

1. It is hard to select just one thing I appreciate about Village Church, as the Church soothes my soul in so many ways. I believe the most important thing about Village, for me, is the theology I learn from every sermon, daily devotional and the classes offered. I have a better understanding of what the Bible is saying to all of us and I look at life in a different way. Through this understanding, I know that God’s love is central to all that Village Church does. The Church’s example encourages me to be empathetic and loving to all I meet. During my times of self-reflection, I pray for God’s guidance to become a better person. My faith continues to grow because I am continually learning and I am so appreciative of the role Village Church plays in my ongoing religious education.
2. As I look back on the various ways I have been involved in Village Church ministries, I realize each time I participated, it was because I felt called by God to do so. For the last 8 years I have been called to Stephen Ministry. Stephen Ministry is one way I can help others who are going through a hard time in life. I am able, because of my training, to walk with my care receiver as she experiences her journey during such a difficult time. I feel blessed to be able to share God’s love for her. I encourage and support her as I listen to her joys, fears, sorrows and questions. I pray with and for her and give my love to her. I share Bible verses that seem to fit her situation. I am fortunate that I have had the opportunity to walk with several women as each completed the journey through their sorrow and hardship and, as much as I gave love to each woman, I too received love in return.​

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Melanie Mann

1. Whether across town (ie; the Food Pantry, Front Porch Alliance, Thelma’s Kitchen) or across the world (i.e. Kenya, Haiti, Dominican Republic), Village Church is making a difference in people’s lives through Jesus Christ. There is a generosity of spirit and heart as Village, through its leaders and members, uses creativity, courage and compassion to welcome, connect to and serve all people.
2. I have been involved with the 7 a.m. Circle of Presbyterian Women for over 25 years. Through years of raising families, growing up ourselves, losing loved ones, periods of sickness and sadness, this wonderful group of women have comforted each other, prayed for one another and rejoiced together (including our recent Sunrise Revival held  in the Village on Mission south parking lot).

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Drew Thomas

1. It is home. It is where my wife and I were married. It is where my children were baptized. It is where my family picks up take-out family dinner every Wednesday. It is where we turn for community. Regardless of what is happening in the world around us, we always seek out Village as that important touchstone in the life of our entire family.
2. Young Adults with Kids and Village Connect Small Group​

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Kelly Thomason

1. Village has been the rock of salvation for both me and my church family! As we grow in faith, we are always looking for someone who can be our mentor and teach us more about walking the path Jesus shows us. There are so many members and leaders at Village that truly walk in the loving ways our Jesus teaches about. These Christian mentors can soar to new heights if the leadership gives them a solid base of love, nurturing, home and healing!
2. When it comes to mission or ministry, that is hard for me to narrow to one. I am going to give you my favorite two, but I could write paragraphs on this question! I love my ladies in Presbyterian women! We study the bible together, we nurture each other and our friendships, we share laughs, we reach out to take care of other ladies, we are involved in so many different areas of community service. Presbyterian women are all about LOVE! I also participate in congregational care at Village on Antioch. We truly are praying and working for all of our members in the best and worst of times. If we send a note or meal to you, know that each of these acts comes with a whole team of members sending their prayers with the act of kindness.​

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Christian Scammahorn-Vaz (Youth Elder)

1. One thing I personally appreciate is the openness and welcoming nature of the doctrine and congregation of Village.
2. I participate in Village Voices and Youth Band, both in Music Ministry, and I enjoy them both.​

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Deacons

Karen Beatty

1. I appreciate the connectional ministry offering Wednesday night dinners.  During the stress of the pandemic, it is nice to have a well cooked meal.  Hats off to the new cook (who I have not met) for a variety of good meals.  I also like that Pastor Sally and Pastor Melanie are available to talk to individuals during curbside pickup.
2. I participate in several groups that are important to me.  I attend monthly PW, as well as the events of Amazing Graces.  I attend Boomerangs on Tuesday mornings, as well as the monthly Tech Talk with Tony. Over the years, I have also been on the Healthy Solutions team giving flu shots for the congregation.  All of these groups give me something to look forward to, and time to socialize.​

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Margaret Boomer

1. For me Village Church is an inclusive church.  When I joined 12+ years ago without any Presbyterian background, I found a home almost immediately.  It is a kind, loving, respectful community.   I also appreciate the emphasis on teaching and learning.
2. I have participated in Stephen Ministry for years and love the program.  I also enjoy PW bible study and Boomerangs.​

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Edie DeSantis

1. This is an easy answer! Village has helped raise and mold our children. From preschool through high school youth group, Village has been a positive influence in their lives. Each has found personal growth, spiritual growth and friendship. Our kids are better because of Village.
2. I have thoroughly enjoyed participating in BackSnacks and Operation Breakthrough Reading, and very much look forward to becoming a Stephen Minister when COVID finally allows.​

Vincent DeSantis

1. I agree wholeheartedly with Edie! Village has enriched our children’s lives and made them better people. We are incredibly grateful Village has been a part of their lives.
2. As I travel regularly, I have not had the privilege of getting involved as I would like to. I don't miss, however, a Sunday morning service with Tom when I'm in town.

Carol Gee

1. There is not just one thing I appreciate about Village....there are so many!  But I think what sets Village apart is its mission of service, its extraordinary staff and ministers and its location.
2. Until it had to be closed due to the pandemic, my volunteer group at the Clothes Closet at the Pantry and the work we did with clients there was so important.  But I am enjoying volunteering with Connectional Ministries as well.

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Laurel Green

1. I appreciate the spiritual guidance that is grounded in thoughtful reflection of biblical teachings. 
2. Music ministry. I am so very grateful for the opportunity to raise our voices in worship together. The More Love Chorale is my small group. When we sing together, it feels like bible study to me. ​

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Mark Green

1. I appreciate the mission of village church. The feeling that my giving will be used in our community for the greater good.  
2. I did go on a mission trip to help with rebuilding after hurricane Katrina which was very meaningful.​

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Kim Huyett

1. I feel like the Gathering service is a gift to me that fills me up with what I need to navigate the world.
2. Well, if you are talking about Village, then this will really be my first time to participate, volunteer, etc.  I’m relatively new to Village and I’m looking forward to this opportunity to serve as a Deacon and meeting more members of the congregation.  Outside of Village, I value the time that I spend volunteering at community events and for the JayDoc Free Clinic.  I also like to make jam for my neighbors and friends to brighten their day.

Barb Kreuger

1. I appreciate the sense of community and friendliness at Village.
2. I enjoy the "Especially for Women" group led by Rev. Diane Quaintance.​

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Benjamin McCabe

1. For me, I've always appreciated how welcoming Village is to people of all faiths and backgrounds.  It's a very inclusive community of faith and a very welcoming church family.
2. I always look forward to the Easter Lily and Christmas Poinsettia delivery to church members who are unable to attend services in person.  It has become a special family tradition to share with our girls. 

Leigh McCabe

1. I truly appreciate the support systems embedded within Village Church.  Whether it's Stephen Ministry, Child Care, Summer Camp Programs, Presbyterian Women, Village U, Sunday School- there are SO many ways to connect with others and feel supported in both good times and challenging times.  I have never come across a staff member at Village who hasn't gone above and beyond in their work- it's really incredible! 
2. It has been an honor to be a part of the Children and Family Ministry Committee this year. I have been so impressed with how Brooke Latas and her team have been able to think outside of the box during the pandemic to ensure that families are still connected and children still feel seen, heard and loved. All of the committee members are genuine, caring women who give great thought into how best to serve the children in the church. 

Barb McDermott

1. I appreciate the educational opportunities Village Church provides, from Sunday school classes to Village U courses and other outside speakers.  They address timely issues in a thought provoking and open-minded manner.  In this time where so much in the news about Christianity comes from a conservative evangelical perspective, I find this so important to keep my faith relevant.  I also appreciate the involvement of Village Church in our community and beyond.  This focus on mission is what I feel Christ would want us to do.  
2. Since rejoining Village Church a couple years ago, most of what I have participated in is attending some of the various educational opportunities offered.  I see the position of deacon as an opportunity to do more for the Church and grow in my faith.

Stan McDermott

1. Some things I certainly appreciate about Village are the wealth of programs and opportunities for spiritual learning and serving others, plus a wide acceptance of varied faiths, religious understands and acceptance of others and ourselves.
2. I have very much enjoyed participating as a child mentor to grade schoolers in the PALs program sponsored by Village, various Bible and religious scholar classes and Pastor Tom’s Breakfast and Bible with your Buddies sessions (hope we can do that again someday).  Environmental concerns are important, too.

Jeanne Norris

1. I appreciate the sense of peace I find at Village, especially during the worship service. There is always meaning and relevance to what is happening in my own life and, importantly, in the world in which we live.
2. We are relatively new members, and as yet have not been involved in a specific mission. We are, however, looking forward to more normal times when we can explore and discover a place in which to be useful. 

Ron Norris

1. During this time when there seem to be so many forces pushing people apart, I appreciate that Village is a place where differences don’t matter as much as people coming together in acceptance, caring, and mutual respect.  
2. We are fairly new members to Village, and as yet have not been active in any particular mission. We are hoping that after the pandemic has subsided, we can find a place to be helpful and relevant.   

Sally Porter

1. The one thing a appreciate most about Village Presbyterian Church is our Worship Services which are designed with thought stimulating sermons, beautiful music by the choir, and Elisa’s talented skills at organ and piano. I so enjoy singing hymns along with our congregation.
2. The church group that is so important to me is my weekly Wednesday Morning Bible Study that I have been a part of for 16 years. Judy Cooper is our dedicated and skilled leader, however we do share that responsibility when necessary.  Our Bible study is also considered a small connect group. 

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Katherine Robinson

1. The number one thing I appreciate about Village is how welcoming it is. The idea of a church community where all are welcome is not only what is said but put to action. Through its missions across the globe and right here in our neighborhood, there is a place for everyone.
2. I participate in several different ministries at Village. Village Connect has got to be the group of women that has meant the most.  This group of women are individuals I would have otherwise not crossed paths with, but over the years have become my dearest friends.  They have been there for me to celebrate the joyous additions to my family and painful departures. Each meeting has aided in my connection with these women as well as solidified my faith.

Mark Robinson

1. While there are many things I appreciate about Village, one thing that I’ve always admired is the breadth and depth of programs that are offered to allow members to explore themselves and their faith in whatever manner resonates with them most (all while communicating a consistent set of underlying values and mission).  Whether it’s the different worship service formats, the various small groups, the multiple campuses, etc., it’s clear that the Village community is truly seeking to enrich the lives of all of those within our community and beyond, and not just a subset who fit a specific profile and/or have a preconceived faith or belief system.
2. While my family and I have explored many of the resources and groups that Village has to offer throughout the years, I personally have not been a consistent participant in any one group or ministry/mission.  However, the desire to be a more regular participant in the Church’s broader activities is one of the primary reasons I’m excited to become a deacon and I’m looking forward to getting started!

Julie Welsh

1. ​We appreciate the welcoming atmosphere the staff and membership extended to us as new members.  We mostly appreciate the ministry that delivers the Bible as our guide through our journey of faith through impactful sermons, amazing music and personal support. 
2. I’ve enjoyed and found important the Presbyterian Women of Village Circle.  We also find important the Village Connect group bible studies.

Justin Welsh

1. ​We appreciate the welcoming atmosphere the staff and membership extended to us as new members.  We mostly appreciate the ministry that delivers the Bible as our guide through our journey of faith through impactful sermons, amazing music and personal support. 
2. We find important the Village Connect group bible studies.

Jerry Woolsey

1. I appreciate the synergy between the membership and the pastoral staff of this church. The membership or congregation (as some might prefer) listen and follow the teachings and prayer of the pastoral leaders and it appears to me the pastoral leaders and staff grow and illuminate their actions by that interaction. This seems to make a strong cohesive church.
2. The mission or group in which I participate which I feel is important to me is the Widowers Group.  This is a group of single senior male church members who meet once a week at the church for prayer, fellowship and exchange of information which can hopefully help improve the daily lives of each of us spiritually, mentally and physically. As we move into the rest of this COVID year, I hope the topics we discuss can have direct impact on our lives by inviting experts to share experiences and knowledge in areas of health, finance and spiritual growth. Hopefully we will be able to share this knowledge and growth with others.

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Poppy Billingsley (Youth Deacon)

1. ​The thing I appreciate most about Village is the community. I can really be myself here and have made tons of friends. 
2. I have gone on the summer mission trips the past couple of years and love the feeling of helping people. I plan on going on as many more missions as I can!

For At-Large Members of the Congregational Nominating Committee

Carla Bock
Dee Gound

We are grateful for the faithful and talented members who, pending the approval of the congregation, have agreed to serve Village in these ways. It has been an honor to serve as your Congregational Nominating Committee.

In Christ,

Ginny Beall, Jim Bolton, Kevin Butler, Dee Couch, Walt Granger, Sue Meredith, Sherri Robeson, Kim Stratton, Dane and Sherry Manis, Charlotte Davis, Scott Stanley and Michele Stowers