2020 Appointments

Ashley Gonzalez
Ashley is a second year graduate student at Princeton Theological Seminary. She was born and raised in Miami, Florida. She completed her undergraduate degree at the University of Florida in Family, Youth, and Community Sciences. She is passionate about antiracist work, preaching, and women’s rights.

Harlan Redmond
Harlan was born and raised in New Orleans. He served in the United States Army for five years and is a veteran of the Iraq War. He has a Bachelor of Science in Organizational Leadership from Azusa Pacific University and a master’s in teaching with an emphasis in Urban Education from the University of Southern California. Harlan served for seven years as Executive Director/ Principal of Harambee Preparatory School, a Christian elementary school for low income students. Harlan is currently entering his third year at Princeton Theological Seminary in the Master of Divinity program. He and his wife, Nanyamka, have three sons.

Nikki Zimmerman
Nikki, an Atlanta native and UNC-Chapel Hill graduate, spent most of her life in the Southeast. After graduating from UNC, Nikki moved to Nashville as part of the 2016 Teach for America Corps. Nikki is now a rising senior at Princeton Theological Seminary and is passionate about antiracism work in and through the church as well as missional entrepreneurship. When she’s not at church, Nikki can be found either on a run or thrifting at Plato’s Closet.

Casey is getting their Masters in Divinity at Drew Theological School and is from Riner, VA. They are called to grow and walk with others; they discern truth and God’s calling in their lives. They see God most in community and in nature and guide their sense of justice through full equality and opportunity to all creation. They believe that through community all can seek and find God’s deeper truth and be there for one another in that walk. They look forward to serving and seeing that future come to light.

Carolyn was born and raised in Kearny, NJ but has also lived in California and Georgia. She was a Commercial General Liability claims adjuster for many years before having the opportunity to earn a Master of Divinity degree from Drew University. Carolyn also holds a B.A. in Early Childhood Education and a teaching certificate for students with disabilities.  Her passion for ministry is helping people to get to know Christ, and social justice for immigrants, low income people and seniors. Carolyn enjoys reading, writing, and spending time with her son Spencer, her lifelong friends and her dog Snaps.

Eliezer Franqui (Eli) was born in Jersey City and lived in Puerto Rico where he obtained a Bachelor’s of Science degree in Environmental Technologies and a Master’s in Science degree in Environmental Health from the University of Puerto Rico. Eli’s call to ministry in the United Methodist Church was affirmed by his pastor and local congregation. Eliezer is working on a Masters in Divinity (M.Div.) from Drew University School of Theology. He is a lifelong Methodist with an evangelical heart, passionate about Jesus and the power of His transformational love. He is a proven leader in the corporate world and the church.

Tricia Piazza is a licensed local pastor who has served churches in the Skylands District since 2013. She served part-time for several years while working full-time as an analyst at Toys-R-Us and has been blessed to serve in full-time ministry for the last several years. She is currently appointed part-time to Grace UMC in Dover and will continue with that appointment as well. She brings  diverse people together through worship, Bible study, prayer and missions so that we may grow in spiritual maturity and discipleship and are equipped to share the good news of God’s inclusive, never-failing love through Jesus Christ.

Randy Clour has served in the Wesleyan Church for over 10 years. Randy has gifts in church planting, teaching and disciple making. He has served in South Carolina, New Jersey, and most recently has been serving in Ohio. He is a graduate from Widener University in Business Administration, Wesley Seminary in Indiana, and is ordained in the Wesleyan Church. Randy is married to Judy his amazing wife a registered nurse and ministry partner and they have two grown children.

Charles Perez served as senior pastor for First UMC in Dover for 11 years and associate pastor at Morristown UMC focusing on Latino ministry Nueva Esperanza for four years. His gifts include church planting and creative and innovative ministry such as Holy Hoops, Homeless Ministry in Dover and Nueva Esperanza. He has a love for ministry for the unchurched/dechurched and young people.  Charles and his wife have four children.

Robert (Rob) Zuckerman has served as the Chief Financial Officer of the Kipling Brand, a brand of the VF Corporation since 2011. He has also served as CFO and director of several other organizations. Rob is a member of the Freehold United Methodist Church where he is the Church Council Chairperson and his wife if the administrative assistant for the church. They have been active United Methodists for much of their life. Rob will begin June 22.

As Director of Small Groups for GNJ, a role she will continue to fill, Gina has partnered with pastors and laity in developing relationships through small groups and faith formation ministries. Gina is driven by her passion for the local church and the belief that God’s grace is experienced in authentic, Spirit-led communities of faith. She is excited to return to Simply Grace UMC as lead pastor.

David K. Ravinder is an ordained elder in GNJ. After completion of his undergraduate studies in India, he did graduate and post graduate studies in Pastoral Theology at Princeton Theological Seminary.  He has recently retired after serving GNJ congregations for 35 years.  David has taught Pastoral Theology at various colleges in India, Singapore and USA. He is married to Sarita, and together they are blessed with three grown children and six grand-children who live in Central NJ.

Manolo has been serving churches in Greater New Jersey for the last 20 years. He has enjoy serving in different capacities as a lay missionary, a local church pastor and a district superintendent. Manolo, as his friends call him, will continue to serve “Christ and only Christ” as he says. Manolo is proud spouse to Pastor Lizy, a father of two and grandfather of five and he loves books and music. He sustains that he is a living testimony of the power of the healing grace of God and want to live to testify about that.

Jisu was born in South Korea and spent most of his youth in New Zealand. On moving back to Korea, he received his B.A. in Counseling from Handong University and an M.Div. from Methodist Theological University. He received his second M.Div. from Drew Theological School and is currently pursuing his D.Min. there. He has served at Arcola KUMC as a youth pastor since 2015, he has a heart for the local church and is passionate about discipleship and pastoral care. Jisu is happily married to his lovely wife Seonah, and together, they are blessed with a wonderful four-year-old son, Yoojin.

Ray Schmeling has a passion about sharing Jesus with others, teaching the Word of God, and reaching out to the less fortunate. He is a second career pastor in his 27^th year and will add St. Luke’s alongside his appointment to Jerseyville UMC in Freehold.  He has served as the Chairperson of the Local Pastors’ Fellowship and on the executive committee of the Board of Ordained Ministry. He is a graduate of Wesley Seminary’s Course of Study School. He and his wife Joanne have two children, two grandchildren, and a Jack Russell Terrier.

Eun Young is a member of the Christ First UMC in Hasbrouck Heights. She was born in Seoul, Korea and raised in Makati, Philippines. She has a Bachelor in Fine Arts from Centenary College, Hackettstown, NJ and a Master of Divinity from Drew Theological School. She has served churches in NJ and NY as an associate in multiple capacities and has a passion for the unchurched. She believes that food can feed souls and fellowship in Christ transforms. She and her husband Chantha started a family in Brooklyn, NY. They have a 6-year-old son Chansen.

A South Jersey native, Joanna holds a B.A. in Social Work from West Chester University, an M.Div. from Eastern Theological Seminary and a D.Min. from Alliance Theological Seminary. She has ministered for the past 20 years as a cross-cultural worker leading a team in West Africa serving the physical and spiritual needs of an unreached people group. She is passionate about sharing God’s stories for the building up of the Body of Christ.

Jonghwa started his first ministry in 1999 and was ordained in South Korea 2002.  He served the Calvary Korean United Methodist Church as an associate pastor for 2004 thru 2012 and served Emmanuel UMC in Oaklyin and Embury UMC in Collingswood from 2012 to 2015. He has served FKUMC of Cherry Hill as an associate pastor for the last five years. He has a loving family with his  wife, Jihye, and three children, two boys and a girl, Yubin, Yuchan, and Yuna.

Dongkue was born and raised in South Korea. He has a M.Div from Methodist Theological School in South Korea. He holda a Master of Church Ministries from Perkins School of Theology. He has served as an assistant pastor at Arcola Korean UMC. He is passionate about preaching, teaching, and nurturing ministries. He and his wife Jooree have two sons, Moses and Phillip. He enjoys playing tennis spending time with family and friends.

Minho was born and raised in South Korea where he majored in pedagogy at both undergraduate and graduate school. He received a Master of Divinity from Drew Theological Seminary. He will continue to serve Appenzeller Memorial Nairi UMC along with his new appointment. Previously, he has served as an assistant pastor at Arcola Korean UMC. He has a passion for preaching, teaching and nurturing God’s people. Minho enjoys reading spiritual books, playing tennis and spending time with his family. He and his wife Sooheui Kim have a five year old son Andrew and a two year old daughter Hana.

Being Holy Spirit led, Vanessa has served GNJ as a pastor since 2013. She is currently pastoring Magnolia Road UMC in Pemberton and St. Paul UMC in Mt. Holly. She is the Chairperson of the GNJ Commission on Religion and Race. A 2020 graduate of Drew Theological School, she recently received a Master of Sacred Theology. There she worked with the Religion and Global Health Forum. She has a Bachelor of Arts and a Juris Doctor from Rutgers University, and a Master of Divinity from Drew. She enjoys entertaining, traveling, and dancing. She is the mother of two wonderful sons, Anson and Aaron.

Tom is a South Jersey native, living in Cumberland and Cape May counties. He attended Bridgeton HS, Pfeiffer College (BS), Glassboro State College (educational certification), Cheney State College (grad), and Wesley and United Seminaries (COS). He taught middle school for 13 years worked at Prudential for 24 years and has served Petersburg: Wesley UMC, Wildwood Crest/North Wildwood UMC’s, and Delmont/Leesburg UMC’s where he will continue to serve.   A three-point charge is a new and exciting opportunity to which he is looking forward.  No such thing as retirement when in His service.

Bill taught physical education in the local elementary school for 38 years before serving the congregations of Dennisville/ South Dennis UMC, Deerfield/ Woodruff UMC, Trinity Marmora, Newport UMC and Delmont/Leesburg UMC where he will continue to serve.  He and his wife enjoy raising and training puppies for the Seeing Eye and visiting schools and nursing homes with our therapy dog.  They have four grown children and five grandchildren

Thomas Novack settled in Estell Manor in 1998 with his wife of 29 years, Denise.  He is the proud father of two children: Daniel who is serving as a trustee in Mays Landing UMC and Rev. Tori Flath serving at Minotola UMC and Piney Hollow UMC. He has been employed at Verizon for 31 years. He started serving Eldora UMC in 2010 and in 2014 Belleplain UMC was added to the charge, where he will continue to serve. Tom graduated COS from United Seminary in 2017. He has a passion for rural churches and youth ministry. His hobbies outside of Church are fishing, hunting, and camping.

Rosemary has served as Ballard United Methodist Church in Asbury Park through Mosaic Ministries. She holds an M.Div. degree from Drew University Theological School, a B.A. in Business Administration from Thomas Edison State University, a certificate in Clinical Pastoral Education at Capital Health Trauma Center and training with the National Plan for the Hispanic Ministry.  Rosemary served as a Hospice Chaplain for Greenwood House Hospice.  She was blessed by the opportunity to serve in the Youth Council of GNJ, Hispanic Emmaus, El Comite Hispano and the Maker’s Place. Rosemary is married to Jesus Gonzalez and they have two children, Jesus (14yrs) and Selena (8yrs).

Andrew is graduating from Georgian Court University, majoring in accounting, and will be attending Drew Theological School starting in August to pursue an M.Div. He has a background in audio, tax, and community theater and believes the love and grace of God is available to everyone. Andrew became a Certified Lay Servant in 2017 and served as a local church trustee, treasurer and young adult delegate to Annual Conference.  He started a prison ministry and helped to start a contemporary service at his home church.  In his spare time, he loves to sing and is an avid Broadway fan.

Shawn Lelion has an M. Div. from Drew University, a B.S. in Health Science Management from Excelsior College, and 4 units of Clinical Pastoral Education. He currently serves as a Licensed Local Pastor in Extension Ministry at Samaritan Healthcare and Hospice. He is a lifelong Methodist and has been serving in church leadership for over 15 years.  He has served at Tuckerton UMC as an Associate Pastor, Brookville/West Creek UMCs, and as an Interim Pastor at Ballard UMC last year. He enjoys being outdoors, cooking, music, and spending time with family. He has three children: Zipporah (6), Thomas (4), Abegayle (3), and a dog, Coco.

YoungHak Lee (he/him) has a passion for spreading the good news of Jesus Christ and embodying the Kindom of God. He believes that this world can be a better place with the teachings of Jesus Christ. Living in the U.S. since he was thirteen, YoungHak has served in various ministries: campus ministry, Army chaplain assistant, and youth and children’s ministry. Currently serving a multicultural congregation, YoungHak is a senior at Drew Theological School, serving as Vice-President of the Theological Student Association. His professional skills in video editing help his faith community come together and nurture hope amidst the COVID-19 outbreak.

Fred Marz is currently serving in his fifth year at Dennisville UMC and South Dennis Trinity UMC in Dennis Township in the Cape Atlantic District and will add Tuckahoe UMC to his appointment. Prior to that he had served for three years at Westville UMC. He is a graduate of Palmer Theological Seminary with MDiv, degree. Key to his approach to ministry is in knowing and being involved in the surrounding community. He enjoys gardening, poetry, and spending time with his grandchildren. He and his wife Peggy feel blessed to be serving the Lord and look forward to what God continues to reveal.

Walter grew up in Glassboro. He is a graduate of Asbury College and Asbury Theological Seminary. He artistically involves multimedia in worship, most recently at Merchantville and Pennsauken UMCs. He enjoys cycling throughout South Jersey. He is the President of Shepherd’s Farm, a 75-unit low-income senior housing complex in West Deptford that opened in 2006, sponsored by St. Paul’s UMC and the Diocese of Camden. Walt and his wife Kathy live in West Deptford sharing retirement with their Bichons – Bailey and Elle Mae. They enjoy visiting family and grandchildren in Glassboro, Charlotte, NC and Concord, CA.

Heidi’s love of the Lord shows through all that she says and does.  Her primary interests in pastoral ministry include creating excellence in worship, forming partnerships between congregations and community organizations, pastoral care of church members and friends and creating opportunities for families and children to engage their faith.  Rev. Bak is known for her “out-of-the-box” style of modern Christian ministry. Heidi will be on loan to the Virginia Annual Conference to be more centrally located to her three grown children and six grandchildren.

Mark (he/him) has been a paperboy, chicken carver, bartender, and pastor serving churches in Washington, DC, Chicago and Jersey City (where he will continue to serve at Christ UMC). He is a firm believer that church is something you do, questions are good, and community can be built anywhere. Some of his social media content has been shared by Unvirtious Abbey, Merle Haggard, Bill of Bill and Ted’s Excellent Adventure, and Preachers With Sneakers. Mark loves photography, graphic design, biking, crab rangoons, his wife Meredith and their energetic daughters, Elise and Nora. He has two degrees from Boston University.

Heeyoung Lim serves Lyndhurst and Glory Korean UMC. In Lyndhurst he developed a Lunch Church for children on Saturdays which serves 20 children from the community. He also leads the Sunday School for children and youth at Vida Nueva Ministry. He graduated M.Div. from Drew, received a B.A. from Kyung-Hee University in economics and worked in Seoul for a company overseeing their Nicaragua branch. Heeyoung is a passionate minister service the people of God with creativity, building new ministries in the local church. Heeyoung lives with his wife Daesun, and they have adorable boys, Ben and Luke.

Tiffany Travia began serving Lord from a young age. By the time she was fourteen was leading worship and still does today. Tiffany is currently serving as the Assistant Pastor at Lifegate Church in Somers Point, NJ. She is also attending Palmer Theological Seminary working towards her MDiv. Tiffany has a passion for preaching and making the Word of God accessible by presenting the Gospel in new and fresh ways. Her hobbies include spending time with family and friends, movies and theater. She resides in Waterford Works, NJ with her husband Joe, son Isaiah and cat Phoebe.

Anson serves on the Greater New Jersey Board of Higher Education and Campus Ministries. He has led youth ministry in two United Methodist Churches and was a leader for campus ministry at NJIT, Rutgers-Newark and Essex County College. An experienced worship leader and musician, he has served multiple churches for over ten years. In addition to playing the piano, guitar and drums, he is a vocalist. Having a passion for business, economic empowerment and education, Anson holds a Bachelor Science in Finance from New Jersey Institute of Technology. He is currently pursuing a Master of Divinity at Drew University School of Theology.

Pedro A. Pillot was born in Philadelphia and spent most of his childhood in South Jersey. He spent three summers as a camp counselor at the Pinelands Center in Mt. Misery. Before receiving his M. Div. from Drew University Theological School in 2013, he served as youth pastor at the UMC of the Rockaways, Children’s Bible Study teacher at Union City UMC, and intern at Conklin UMC (South River). He has served at Asbury UMC (Camden) since 2016. He is married to Rev. Jacki Pillot who serves Trinity UMC (Merchantville), and together, they have a one-year-old daughter.

John Lore graduated from Glassboro State College and earned a master’s degree from Harvard University. A native of Vineland, he has served Cumberland UMC and two United Methodist Churches in Massachusetts. He is a frequent guest speaker and preacher in churches across South Jersey and South Eastern Pennsylvania and served as an adjunct professor in Philosophy and Religion at Rowan University.

Michael Smith is a South Jersey native who is currently serving as the Superintendent of Congregational and Community Vitality in the Mountain Sky Conference of the UMC and lives with his wife, Albree, and three children (9, 7,& 5) in Fort Collins, CO. He has previously served as senior pastor of Clinton UMC (Clinton, NJ) and Tabernacle UMC (Erma, NJ) and as associate pastor of Saint Peter’s UMC (Ocean City, NJ). Michael uses creativity and innovation to increase vitality in every church he serves. He loves spending time with his family, music, movies, and the Philadelphia Eagles.

Sanghoon (Sam) Choi has served Mendham UMC in Mendham and Morristown Korea UMC in Randolph as a two-point charge pastor, and served the Skylands District as a circuit elder for past 4 years. He received his M.Div. degree from Drew Theological School, was ordained in 2014. While studying theology, he wrote/translated and published several books about computer and science, mostly for children. He likes to find ways in which the Gospel is delivered creatively and effectively to various walks of life. He and his wife, Kathy, have two children, Kevin and Hyunmin.

Esther D. Morales was born in Guayama, Puerto Rico and raised in a three generations Methodist family. She has served as a certified local pastor during the last six years, and she is currently serving at Emanuel UMC in Union City and Park UMC in Weehawken. She is a full-time student at Drew University where she is pursuing a M. Div.  She is passionate about serving the community through outreach programs such as ESL classes, grieving support groups, and art. Esther has also been a special needs educator for 36 years. She is a proud mother of two sons, and a grandmother of three grandsons.

Eun Ok Cha earned her Bachelor and M.A. degrees from Hyupsung University Theological School in South Korea and completed the MDiv. and S.T.M program at Drew Theological School in 2010.

She has 20 years-experiences of various ministries from South Korea and USA, and currently she serves Waldwick UMC as a local pastor and will continue to do so.  She has a strong passion for delivering God’s Words and love, and for making disciples of Jesus Christ! Her supportive husband, Daniel is a professional Table Tennis Coach & Chef, and they have two children, Jacob (age 9) and Irene (7).

Holly Paul is a licensed local pastor and a certified candidate on the path to ordination. Holly is currently enrolled at Drew University working towards an M.Div. Holly has served at Montana UMC in Phillipsburg, Centenary UMC in Lambertville and Linvale UMC in Ringos, NJ. Holly is passionate about preaching, pastoral care and developing various ministries connecting congregations to their local communities. Holly continues her work as an emergency critical veterinary nurse, enjoys camping, hiking with her two dogs and still participates in the shooting sports in her free time.

Paul Fenn is a Licensed Local Pastor who is currently enrolled in the Course of Study at Wesley Theological Seminary in Washington, DC. He was born and raised in the Broad Street UMC in Burlington and is currently serving the Buddtown UMC in Southampton, where he will continue to serve. He is happily married to his wife Patty and they have four grown children.

Catherine Jordan-Latham is a lifelong Methodist from Brooklyn, NY. She is passionate about creating multicultural and intergenerational spaces through worship and fellowship. In GNJ she has served as the Associate Pastor of Multicultural Ministry at Monmouth Grace UMC and Lead Pastor at Simply Grace UMC. Catherine has a B.A from Drew University in Pan African Studies and Religion, and a M.Div. from New York Theological School. She is married to a public school teacher and mama to a very active toddler.

Han Kil Kim has served Calvary KUMC since 2017. He is passionate about leading praise and inviting children to Jesus Christ. He believes that God has called him to make disciples and transform the world through the local church. He received his B.A. and Th.M degrees from Methodist Theological University in Seoul, South Korea and will be graduating from Drew Theological School with a M.Div in the summer. Han enjoys coffee and donuts with the people he loves and spending time with them.

Sarah Borgstrom Lee began her church work in youth ministry in 2010 and has been serving churches ever since. Her passions in ministry include helping cultivate intentional spiritual disciplines and leading missional brain storming sessions. Sarah received her M.Div from Princeton Theological Seminary in 2015, and her B.A. in psychology and minor in ceramics from Arcadia University in 2008. Sarah is married to Josh Lee, has a wonderful son, Jeremiah, and is looking forward to welcoming another son very soon!

Alicia Grey has a passion for helping people encounter transformation and healing, so that they can experience all that God has for them. She received her MDiv. from Wesley Theological Seminary in DC and is currently an associate pastor at Everittstown and Pattenburg churches. She also holds a master’s degree in Print Journalism from Northwestern University, a master’s degree in Intercultural Studies from Fuller Theological Seminary and a bachelor’s degree in English Literature from Wellesley College. She has a broad background that reflects her diverse interests and skills, including her work as a hospice chaplain and a missionary in Paraguay.

Ray Schmeling has a passion about sharing Jesus with others, teaching the Word of God, and reaching out to the less fortunate. He is a second career pastor, yet, he is now in his 27th year serving in that role. He is both a lifelong Methodist and lifelong resident of NJ. He has served as the Chairperson of the Local Pastors’ Fellowship and on the executive committee of the Board of Ordained Ministry. He is a graduate of Wesley Seminary’s Course of Study School. He and his wife Joanne have two children, two grandchildren, and a Jack Russell Terrier.

Jean McMullan experienced a call to ministry at the age of 10. She is a “narrative preacher” who enjoys leading worship, both traditional and contemporary. She loves church music, including classical, post-modern, and almost anything in-between. She is passionate about hospitality and inclusion. Since 1985 Jean has served congregations in West Virginia (1985-1989) and New Jersey (1989 to the present). She graduated from Drew Theological School in 1992 and was ordained an Elder in 1994. Among other GNJ leadership opportunities, she was involved in the Local Pastors Licensing School from 2000 to 2018.

Sooah Na has great passion for teaching children about Jesus’ love, sharing God’s grace through music and caring for the community and the world through mission. More than 10 years of her worship leading experience includes the privilege of serving on the nationwide touring worship band named “the Anointing” in Korea back in 2009-2010. Sooah is currently serving as the pastor of the Community Church of Hoboken. She graduated from Methodist Theological University in Seoul, Korea with her bachelor’s degree in Theology, and received a Master of Divinity from Drew Theological School where she met her husband, YoungKwang Jun, a gifted worship leader.

Jisun Nam is serving Korean Community Church as an associate pastor. She has been involved in family ministry for over 20 years and is passionate about supporting the spiritual growth of younger generation. She majored in Education and Christian Studies before earning a M.Div. at Drew Theological Seminary. She is currently pursuing her S.T.M. degree from Drew with the primary focus on preaching. She believes that God has called her into the ministry of listening to and sustaining the weary with the words of God. Jisun and her husband, Kenneth, live in Ridgewood with their three children: Neri (15), Nicholas (13), and Irene (11).

Anna Thomas is a dedicated pastor who has served GNJ for more than 17 years including in leadership at District and Conference levels.  She has a passion and commitment to reach all people in the name of Christ. She has a D.Min from Drew with an emphasis on guiding congregations through transitions in ministry with immigrants. She leads churches in understanding, embracing and accomplishing mission to develop disciplines locally and globally, and engaging followers in worship, community and ministry. She strongly believes in working through team building and collaboration. She is married to Sushil and they have a son Joshua.

Yohan Baik has served as the pastor at The Church of the Master, North Hunterdon UMC, and as the director of the young adult and adult cell group team at Calvary KUMC. Yohan received his M.Div from New Brunswick Theological Seminary and completed his Clinical Pastoral Education training at Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital in New Brunswick. He also completed a Disciple Training School at University of Nations in Kona, Hawaii. He is passionate about preaching, creative worship, and pastoral care. He is happily married to his wife, Sunny, and his two children, Eileen, 14 and Joshua, 13.

Rachel Callender is a Licensed Local Pastor and Certified Ordination Candidate in the Greater New Jersey Annual Conference. Currently, she serves the United Methodist Churches of Long Beach Island. She attended the Performing Arts Academy OCVTS as an Acting Major, has a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Theatre Performance from Kean University, a Masters of Divinity from Princeton Theological Seminary and in compliment to her masters, a Certificate in Ecumenical Studies from the Bossey Ecumenical Institute of the World Council of Churches in Switzerland.

Josh Hughes is currently serving as a pastor at Deerfield and Woodruff UMCs. He was previously on staff at two UMC churches in Ohio with a focus on children, youth, and discipleship. Josh loves to focus on building relationships with people in the church he is serving as well as connecting with other pastors. He has a deep passion for preaching the gospel and helping others discover who God has created them to be. He desires to focus on discipleship within the church he is serving as well as connecting with the communities around the church for the sake of Christ.

Hyun Hui Kim was born, raised, and educated in South Korea. Her lived cross-cultural experience has been formative in ministry, embodying beauty in diversity and harmony in difference. She has served in ministries from Pre-K to adult groups, most recently with West Grove UMC in Neptune where she will continue to serve alongside her new appointment. Hyun Hui completed her Master of Divinity Degree at Drew Theological School and currently is a candidate for the Doctor of Philosophy degree in Theological and Philosophical Studies at Drew. She is passionate about making the Scriptures come alive and have meaning for the daily lives of her congregation.

JongIn Lee has served as the pastor of the Church of the Good Shepherd since 2013. He was recently ordained as an elder. He received a Bachelor’s and M.A from HyupSung University in Korea and M.Div. from Drew Theological School. He loves to see the transformation of the people and community through the Word and the fellowship in Christ. He loves to feel and find the presence of God in nature. He enjoys hiking and woodworking. JongIn is married to Eunkyong, pastor of the Cedar Cliff UMC in Haledon, and they have an 8-year-old daughter, Sophia. They enjoy taking a walk with a furry friend, Cherry.

Juyeon (Julie) Lee has served as the music director at Embury United Methodist Church in Little Silver and, most recently, as a pastor at Ballard United Methodist Church in Asbury Park through Mosaic Ministries. She was born and raised in Seoul, South Korea. She received her M.Div. from Drew Theological School and her M.A.R. from Yale Divinity School in Liturgical Studies. She’s passionate about nurturing the people of God and sharing God’s love to the community. In her free time she enjoys baking desserts. Julie currently lives in Palisades Park with her husband Michael and their three year old son Nathaniel.

Rosario was born in Puerto Rico and her faith journey began childhood. She completed a Master of Divinity with Certificates in Hispanic and Urban Ministries at SMU Perkins School of Theology in Dallas, Texas and earned a Master of Sacred Theology and a Master of Philosophy with concentration in biblical studies, ethics, gender and sexuality at Drew Theological School. Rosario advocates for justice and equality and has served as local pastor in multicultural and reconciling churches. She is a lawyer in Puerto Rico and worked as CPA. She has participated in startup churches, missions and other ministries, including worship, small groups, bible studies, and discipleship.

Jesse Ruch is currently serving Broadway and Port Colden UMCs in Warren County. Originally from Ocean City, NJ, Jesse’s passions in ministry include youth, small groups, camping ministry and A/V. He enjoys innovating to help the church connect and engage with the community. He believes that God has called the church to be the hands and feet of Christ here on earth. Jesse will begin his senior year of seminary at Drew University in the fall. He has a professional background in IT. When out of the office, Jesse enjoys camping, cooking and coffee.

Waleska Trinidad was born and raised in Puerto Rico. She moved to NJ with her daughter 17 years ago. She is currently the pastor of Primera Iglesia Metodista Unida Wesley in Trenton and Chambers UMC Hamilton. She is enrolled in the Course of Studies at Wesley Theological Seminary in DC. One of her passions is working in mission while creating authentic relationships with the community and she is currently the chair of the National Plan for Hispanic-Latino Ministries in GNJ.

Marissa was born and raised in California and attended California Lutheran University where she attained her B.S. in Biological Sciences and Computer Information Systems. Previous to hearing her call to ministry, she worked for fifteen years as a molecular biologist. Upon hearing God’s call on her life, she received her M.Div. From Drew Theological Seminary. She has served on staff at Bishop Janes UMC and has served Neshanic and Sergeantsville UMC’s since 2018. Marissa is passionate about mission and helping congregations connect with their communities.

Elaine is a second career pastor who has served in Cranford, Denville, Springfield and is currently in Dumont at Calvary UMC where she will continue to serve alongside her new appointment. Elaine earned her Master of Divinity from Drew Theological School. Her greatest joy is helping people experience God’s love and then share it using their unique gifts in creative ways. She believes the church best serves God as an interfaith body, collaborating within our communities to bring justice, compassion, healing and fun! Elaine is the proud mom of two children and Nana to three grandchildren.  She enjoys cooking, travel, reading and adventuring!

Anna Gillette a fervent minister who feels called to lead congregations in clarifying and attaining their vision for ministry. She deeply loves creative and passionate worship and teaching Bible studies for all ages. She has served at Marlton United Methodist Church. Princeton UMC, and Centenary UMC in Lambertville. She and her husband Trey are graduates of Princeton Theological Seminary and her husband is an employee there. They have three boys: Eric who lives with his wife in Lubbock TX and is expecting Anna’s first grand baby, Jeffrey who is a student at Rowen College, and Peter who is a senior at Rider University.

Joseph Jueng is currently serving as the Director of Campus Ministry at Rutgers University for the United Methodist Church and the Associate Pastor at the United Methodist Church at New Brunswick. He and his wife, Sam, moved to New Jersey in 2018 from Washington, DC, which is where he attended Wesley Theological Seminary. They have been slowly won over to NJ by the excellent ethnic eateries and local craft beer. On January 28, 2020, Sam and Joe were blessed with a beautiful and healthy daughter, Astrid Rose. She joins a furry older brother in the family, Tagu, a 14.5 year-old black Pomeranian.

Taegun Wang has been serving churches in GNJ since 2000, including Bountiful Korean UMC, Korean UMC of South Jersey and Bethany Church (Fort Lee Campus). He was ordained as an elder in 2006. He loves God, church and people. He has a conviction for the call to pastoring local churches. He received B.S. from Seoul National University, Master of Theology from Methodist Theological Seminary in Seoul, Korea, M.Div. from Drew Theological School, S.T.M. from Union Theological Seminary, NY, and studied Early Christian History in the Ph.D. at Drew. He is married to Hyunsook, and has three daughters, Kayla, Kathryn and Kristine.

Amanda Hemenetz serves The UMC at Mount Tabor. She received her M.Div. from Drew Theological School, and is currently pursuing her D.Min. there. Amanda is co-chair of GNJ’s Reconciling Ministries team, coaches local churches through the Reconciling process, and was a member of GNJ’s Way Forward Commission. Her ministry revolves around her firm belief that God is love; and that Jesus came that all may have life, and have it abundantly (1 John 4:7, John 10:10). She lives with George, her husband of 15 years, and their 10-year-old son, Gregory

Gabrielle Martone is a recently ordained Elder and currently serves Pearl River UMC as the interim Pastor. Gabrielle has served Frankford Plains UMC, Broadway UMC in Franklin Township, and Port Colden UMC in Washington NJ, and as the Associate at Central UMC in Linwood NJ. Gabrielle holds her M.Div. from Princeton Theological Seminary and a B.A. in Religion from Smith College. She has been an intern at Red Bird Mission, sat on Wespath’s Young Leaders Advisory Board and is the Community Trainer for the Skylands Walk to Emmaus. Gabrielle is deeply passionate about mission, outreach and community development.

Myungim Kim has a strong background with church planting and leadership development through her experiences with the General Board of Global Ministries as the Area Liaison for Asia and as the Executive Secretary, assigned to coordinate the General Conference Mandated plans: Asian American Language Ministry and Pacific Islanders Ministry in the U.S. for the last seven years. She served as a chaplain of Centenary College and three congregations in GNJ: Newton, Totowa and Pennington. She also served as the Director of Annual Conference Relations at the General Commission on Religion and Race in Washington D.C. Myungim has two grown children, Joe and Hajung.

Jonathan Campbell serves as the pastor of Old First UMC in West Long Branch. He previously worked as Operations Director at CUMAC-ECHO, a large feeding and ministry center, in Paterson. He serves the GNJAC as the Peace with Justice Coordinator. He is also the co-chair of the United Methodist Association of Ministers with Disabilities. Jonathan believes the church is called to reclaim the model of ministry found in Acts 2, by devoting ourselves to God, prayer, Scripture, Holy Communion, and serving others. He is blessed to be the father of three amazing young men, Jeremiah (16), Nathan (13), and Christopher (11).

Erik is serving St. Andrew UMC, Toms River. He holds a BA in Philosophy from TCNJ and an M.Div from Princeton Seminary. Erik uses his entrepreneurial background and missional church-planting experience to innovate new ministry strategies that make disciples, strengthen churches and impact neighborhoods for Christ. He is passionate about making Jesus known in new places for new people in each new generation. Erik is married to Amy who works as HR Director for Meals on Wheels of Ocean County. They have two teen-aged children Austin and Collin. Erik and Family love the beach, surfing, fitness and their three dogs.

Frank Davis is seasoned pastor and is currently serving as an interim pastor at Leonia UMC. He has served six other churches in Greater New Jersey and has worked in various capacities, backgrounds and conditions and has also done extensive work with ‘at- risk’ youth. Frank deeply believes that we are called to act justly, to love mercy and to walk humbly with God. He has a deep passion for social justice and standing up for those who cannot defend themselves. He desires to work with congregations and clergy to develop spiritual leaders and grow vital congregations for the transformation of the world.

Chuck received his Master of Divinity from Eastern Baptist Theological Seminary. He was in extension ministry from 2006 – 2015, as a Spiritual Support Counselor with Samaritan Healthcare & Hospice. He has previously served in Carney’s Point, Quinton and Hancock’s Bridge, Turnersville, and Delanco. He loves the church, and believes that to transform a community, the church needs to live in the abundance of God’s grace; and believes that the church should be a friend to all. Chuck is engaged to be married to Lani Cole, director of worship at St. John’s in Turnersville, and between them they have four beautiful children.

Brian Neville is serving Hillsdale UMC. A Buffalo, NY native, he earned his Master of Divinity at Palmer Theological Seminary. Brian finds his passion in helping people connect with God in every part of their lives, from the ordinary to the extraordinary. He also loves young people discover that church is not boring – it is anything but! He is married to Emily, was ordained in 2014, and has two beautiful boys, Davy and Halloran, ages 7 and 5. Previously Brian served First UMC in Toms River as an Associate and Chews UMC as an Assistant to the Pastor.

Larry has been in ministry in GNJ since 2002. He received his Master of Divinity from Easter Baptist Seminary and Doctor of Ministry from Drew University. He has participated in various roles at the District and Conference level. Larry’s view of ministry is based upon Matthew 22:36-40 and he’s convinced that the church must be a vibrant hub for the community as it finds transformative ways to share the story of Jesus. He is married to Ginny, his beautiful wife for over 25 years and is the father of David and Kyle who both have recently gotten engaged.

Alison has served as the pastor of Franklin Lakes United Methodist Church since 2015. She believes relationships are the heart of ministry. She is passionate about spiritual growth through prayer, worship, and community-building. Prior to attending Princeton Theological Seminary, she worked in New York City for interfaith and ecumenical non-profits. Along the way, she has received training in coaching and spiritual direction. Her writing has been published in multiple books and magazines. She and her husband Sajan have two children, Eve and Rose. They enjoy gardening, cooking, and board games.

Rev. Scott Bostwick has a Bachelor of Arts degree from Monmouth University, and received a Master of Divinity degree from Princeton Theological Seminary. He has served several local churches in the Greater New Jersey Conference, including Hazlet, Linwood, Bay Head, and Wyckoff. He has served GNJ districts on various teams, including DCOM, Strategic Planning Team, and the Superintendency Committee, as well as at the Conference level as co-chair of the Conference Youth Ministry Team and as chair of the Conference Committee on Investigation. Scott and his wife Karen have two sons, Jason and Ryan, and a dog, Gracie.

Rev. William Williams, III has an Economics degree from Swarthmore College and  a Masters of Divinity from Drew University School of Theology. Prior to his ministerial assignments, Rev. Williams held a number of corporate finance positions with increasing responsibility, including supervisory and coaching. He has served in a variety of roles within churches throughout Nebraska, Missouri Pennsylvania and New Jersey including in Gibbstown, Billingsport, Atlantic City, and Westfield. Rev. Williams has held leadership positions in the South Central and Northeastern Jurisdictions. He is married to Joyce and is the father to eight-year-old Julia and five-year-old twins William, IV and James.