2022 Appointments

Rev. Ronell Howard will be the new District Superintendent starting January 1, 2023, for the Central District which covers from Trenton, New Jersey to the Jersey Shore. She will be replacing Hector Burgos who was elected a bishop and will be serving the Upper New York Conference.

Presently Ronell is a part of the Metro Highlands Regional Team working to develop clergy and congregations in that region and overseeing A Journey of Hope to end the sin of racism for GNJ. She is a Native of Fort Smith, Arkansas who was raised in New York City and graduated from the State University of New York at Stony Brook with a Bachelor of Arts degree in English Literature. She also earned a Master of Divinity degree from Princeton Theological Seminary where she also received the Jagow Award for Excellence on Homiletics and Speech. Upon graduation she served as a pastoral resident in the Transition into Ministry Program funded by the Lilly Endowment and was ordained in the American Baptist Churches USA of Metropolitan New York and became a United Methodist and received as an Elder of the Greater New Jersey Annual Conference. While serving as a United Methodist pastor in Norwalk, CT, she facilitated the joining of two churches to form Cornerstone Community Church. She previously served as the Lead Pastor of Christ United Methodist Church in Piscataway, NJ.

In her free time, Ronell loves to travel, garden, draw/paint, and follow all things Star Wars and Marvel Cinematic Universe. She loves spending time with family and friends and is the queen of spoiling her two dogs, Rocky and Robyn Fenty.

Sammy Arroyo recently served as senior pastor at the First United Methodist Church of Hightstown. He comes with wonderful gifts of teaching, preaching, and leading both in the local church and throughout the annual conference. He is a published author, has turned congregations around in growth, worked with justice issues, and helped build strong relationships that have transformed lives and made disciples of Jesus Christ.

Gina Kim has served in full-time ministry for over 24 years, as a youth pastor, associate pastor, senior pastor and district superintendent for the United Methodists of Greater New Jersey. She has completed coaching training, is actively coaching several clergy, leads a PaCE group and is a circuit elder. She has grown ministries wherever she has served. She is a Stephen Leader and graduated from the Academy for Spiritual Formation in April 2016. She enjoys stamping, knitting and gathering with friends over good food. She is married to Chong and they have a son, Mathew who is married to Ellen.

Rev. Dr. Joy Arroyo grew up in Michigan in the Wesleyan tradition. She is ordained in the Wesleyan Church and received a Ph.D. in Practical Theology from Princeton Seminary, focusing on spiritual formation. Her research focuses on faith formation in households and the intersections of spirituality and well-being. She loves helping individuals and families grow in their relationship with God and one another. She is also very passionate about writing and has spent the last four years teaching writing and research at Princeton University. She hopes to use her enjoyment of creativity and writing for the benefit of the church. She is married to the Rev. Dr. Sammy Arroyo  and is blessed with a son, Gabriel and daughter, Adeline. In her free time, she writes, reads and spends time with her family and friends.

Sarah Borgstrom Lee has been serving in ministry in Greater New Jersey for more than 10 years. She received her pastoral training at Princeton Theological Seminary. While in seminary she led the youth ministry program at Broad Street UMC in Burlington and then transitioned into senior pastoral ministry in 2014. Since then, she has served many wonderful churches throughout Hunterdon County. Sarah is passionate about leading people to grow spiritually, sharing good conversations over coffee, and planning fun sermon series. She enjoys watching Korean dramas with her husband Josh, and playing in the backyard with her two small boys, Jeremiah and Jonathan

John Wesley Morrison has served GNJAC in pastoral and academic ministry for 38 years. He holds degrees in Biblical languages as well as pastoral-theological studies and, as a pastor-teacher, seeks to unite intellectual insight and Christian faith so that both believers and doubters, illumined by the Holy Spirit, are enabled to grasp with heart and mind the life-changing truth of the good-news of Jesus. He ministers with congregations to share God’s love in their local communities and, via connectional and ecumenical missions, to the wider world. He also has long been engaged in interfaith-dialog with Jews and Muslims.

Pedro Pillot attended Asbury UMC, Camden from age eight. At age twelve, his family moved to Pennsauken, NJ where his mother still lives. After graduating from Pennsauken High School in 2009, he attended Drew University College of Liberal Arts where he received a BA in Comparative Religion in 2013. He then enrolled in Drew University Theological School where he earned a M.Div. in 2016. After graduating, he served Asbury UMC, Camden until 2020 when he was appointed to Fieldboot UMC. Pastor Pedro helped lead Fieldboot UMC through their transition to online worship services and then hybrid services. He is married to Pastor Jacki Pillot, pastor of Trinity UMC, Merchantville where they live with their two toddlers.

Charlie Kinch was born and raised in Somers Point, New Jersey, where he grew up and served in the local church (Lifegate UMC) throughout his life. Since 2017, Charlie has been appointed to both Malaga and Porchtown UMC. Charlie is passionate about visioning and looking to the future in ways that connect to the ever-changing world, while still holding true to our living Word of God. Aside from his pastoral calling, you may find Charlie staying active swimming, running, or going to the gym. He also enjoys various types of art, including painting, music, photography, and going to museums.

Brian Roberts served GNJ as District Superintendent for 8 years, working with the Cape Atlantic District and other congregations. He served as Senior Pastor of St. Peter’s UMC in Ocean City, the UMC at Absecon, and St. Paul’s UMC in Trenton (now part of Turning Point UMC). Brian earned his M.Div from Princeton Theological Seminary, an MBA from Rutgers Graduate School of Management, and a BA from Colgate University. He has passion for growing stewardship, working with congregations on models for vital ministry, and coaching. He is married to Sandra, who has been his ministry partner and is now serving on staff at Central UMC-Linwood. They have two adult children, Alyson and Nathan. He enjoys pickleball, kayaking, and exercise.

Taegun Wang has been serving as the pastor in the United Methodist Churches in GNJ since 2000. He has served at many places inlcuding Bountiful KUMC, Diamond Hill UMC, KUMC of South Jersey, Fort Lee Campus of Bethany KUMC, and Calvary KUMC in East Brunswick. He has a passion for learning spiritual growths and the disciplines for congregational life. He was raised in South Korea and earned a BS from Seoul National University, a M.Th. from Methodist Theological Seminary in Seoul, a M.Div from Drew Theological School, and a S.T.M. from Union Theological Seminary in New York. He also studied a Ph.D. at Drew Theological School, majoring Early Church History. He enjoys music, Baduk, table tennis, riding bike, camping, etc. He and his wife have three lovely daughters.

Anson believes that the Gospel is transformative; it can change individuals, communities, and the world for the better. A demonstrated leader, he serves as a UMC Pastor and also serves on the GNJ Board of Higher Education and Campus Ministries. He has led youth ministry in two United Methodist churches and was 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 BS in Finance from New Jersey Institute of Technology. Anson will be graduating with his M.Div from Drew School of Theology in May 2022.

Jim Carver’s passion is to preach and teach the good news of Jesus Christ through the Word of God. Ephesians 4:11-12 has framed his calling: to equip the saints to do the work of ministry. Jim’s father, also a pastor, led him to Jesus. Jim’s mother opened him up to a new outpouring of the Holy Spirit. His wife (of 45 years) has helped him grow as a person of faith, a husband, a father and grandfather, a friend and a pastor.

His education is from Lycoming, Gordon Conwell, United, …and the Mid-Atlantic Foundation Leadership Academy.

Gratitude is what Jim feels for the Lifegate Church for offering this opportunity to again pursue my passion and my calling. Jim is a retired elder of the Eastern PA Conference.

Deborah Barnett has served local churches, several districts, and the conference in various ways as a lay person before becoming a pastor. Since 2016, she has been appointed to Westmont UMC. Prior to that, she served Winslow, Elm, and Grace Union Churches.  Debbe graduated from Wesley Theological Seminary COS.  She is passionate about ministries that connect the community with God by meeting people where they are in life. She is also experienced in ministry with children, youth, and young adults.  She and her husband Dave have a grown son and daughter.  They enjoy time with family and friends.

Wayne moved to the United States in 1977 from Jamaica. He earned a bachelor’s degree from Temple University in 1990 and an M.Div at Palmer Theological Seminary in 2011.

From 2012 to 2015, he served as a chaplain, delivering spiritual care in a hospital, hospice, and nursing home settings. He joined GNJ in 2019, serving as pastor at Pennsauken UMC and East Pennsauken UMC.

Wayne is a loving husband to his wife, Kisha, and nurtures the education of his children: Jonathan, a 10th-grader, and Gabrielle, an architectural engineering student at Drexel University. He enjoys talking sports and current events with friends.

Patrick Labenyimoh was born and raised in Nigeria, in the United Methodist tradition. He came to the United States in 2021 and has served at Covenant UMC in Plainfield, NJ as a Seminary Intern. He holds a Bachelor of Science in Medical Laboratory Science from Africa University and has completed a yearlong internship at Mutare Provincial Hospital in Zimbabwe. He is currently pursuing a Master of Divinity degree at Drew Theological Seminary. Patrick has had rich and meaningful multi-cultural experiences from his time as a student at Africa University to presently working for Drew University’s Center for Civic Engagement. He is passionate about building relationships in community, preaching, evangelism, serving the needs of others, and sharing in God’s love.

Ronell Howard was born in Fort Smith, Arkansas and is a proud Razorback. She was raised in New York City. Upon accepting her call to ministry, Ronell attended Princeton Theological Seminary where she focused on practical theology. She has served at Christ UMC in Piscataway for the past four years. Ronell looks forward to working with churches and leaders in GNJ, as she will become more vital and culturally competent. Ronell loves watching Korean dramas, drawing, painting, travel, and eating chicken wings. She is also the doting human to her dogs, Rocky and Robyn Fenty.

Linda Applegate is a retired Elder in full connection from Lacey UMC. Linda previously served with the wonderful members of First Toms River and Cedar Grove, Toms River UMC. Linda received her MDiv. from Eastern Theological Seminary, and a BA from Monmouth University. Married to her partner in ministry, Bill, she is mom to Jason, Casey and Jeanette. She is also a fun-in-law to three wonderful adults, and “Babcia” to five grandchildren. She enjoys being together with family, mission experiences, steam trains, shelling, music, and creative arts.

As a lifelong United Methodist, Scott Cliffton grew up serving in the church. He is a graduate of Drew University with a Master of Divinity. In 2010, he began teaching public school and served in Youth Ministry for St. Andrew UMC. From there, he felt that God was calling him to full time ministry.  Scott has a servant heart and believes that when we let God’s love work through us, we can share that love with others. Scott and his wife, Amanda, have six children and love camping and going to the beach.

Alan S. Darby is a South Jersey native, born in Ocean City and raised in Haddon Heights. He is a graduate of Westminster College (New Wilmington, Pa) and Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary. After seminary, Alan served as campus ministry staff with InterVarsity Christian Fellowship and has served UM churches in Sharptown, Collingswood, Elmer, and Sicklerville. He and his wife, Beverly, have 3 grown children: Chris, Andy, and Bethany. Chris and Jill have 1 daughter, Andi Jane and one son, Casey Scott. Personal interests include music, sports, reading and spending time with grandkids. Alan’s passions for the church include dynamic worship, nurturing Bible Studies in small groups, developing leadership (especially with youth and young adults), effective evangelism, world missions, and vital service of Christ and His church through Spirit-gifted ministry.

After receiving her call to ministry Christine started off preparing herself for her second career. She graduated from Drew Theological School and completed a yearlong residency as a Chaplin at Georgetown University Hospital. Upon returning to New Jersey, Christine served churches in the Freehold area, western Hunterdon County, and in Gloucester County. Christine is a loving aunt to two nieces, one nephew, and now three grand-nieces and one grandnephew. In her spare time, she is a quilter and a reader of mysteries. She is passionate about worship and teaching.

Reverend Marco Depestre was born in Haiti to a family of nine children of the late Reverend & Mrs. Marco Depestre Sr. Called to ministry after a career in the field of agronomy, after theological training and ordination to ministry of the Word and Sacrament, he served as pastor in Jamaica and later in Haiti. Since September 2019, Marco serves as pastor of the First United Methodist Church of Asbury Park. Marco has accumulated a wealth of experience in pastoral care of Methodist congregations, preaching, church music, community development projects, and education. As a person of faith, he believes in a holistic ministry of the people of God, and always stands for justice and growth.

Eliezer Franqui was born in New Jersey and raised in Camuy, Puerto Rico. He returned to the United States in 2018, soon after Hurricane Maria devastated the island, bringing with him the Spanish language and culture of his parents, especially the Methodist and Evangelical traditions of his hometown. Eli has a Bachelor of Science in Environmental Technologies and holds a master’s degree in Environmental Health. He is currently a Drew Theological Seminary MDiv student and a Bi-Vocational Pastor working at the local church in multicultural settings. Eli’s pastoral journey has helped him cultivate traditional and contemporary worship experiences, as well as a variety of church ministries. Eli has served passionately in music, outreach, and evangelism but preaching the Gospel is what drives his Wesleyan call. Eli is a dad and stepdad to four unique persons: Lianette, Ana Maria, Ezequiel, and Misael. He is also blessed to be the husband of Linés Rosado, his beloved “Lina”.

Nicole Oh was born in Seoul, Korea, and moved to Michigan in her teen years when she also met Christ. She studied at Trinity Evangelical Divinity School where she met her husband, Jin. She and her husband, a UMC clergy, have been serving several churches together for the last 26 years. She earned an MA in Religion and is a licensed local pastor. She previously served as a children’s pastor and is currently serving as a youth pastor at Olivet UMC. Nicole has a strong passion for bringing Evangelism and outreaches into local churches. She raised two beautiful children, Joshua and Noelle. Joshua and his wife, Songbee, are also pursuing their MDiv at Trinity Evangelical Divinity School. Noelle is a nurse in NICU at Emory Hospital. Nicole loves playing tennis, gardening in the summer, and cooking for people.

Andi Semler has served as the Director of Youth and Young Adults at Bridgewater UMC for the last three years, and Assistant Pastor at First UMC Westfield for the past year. She received her B.A. in Communications and is looking forward to receiving her M.Div. from Drew Theological School this Spring. Throughout her time in ministry, Andi has worked hard to develop thriving youth ministry and adult small group programs. She is passionate about connecting with and meeting the needs of those in her congregation, and working collaboratively with her church to serve those in their local community. Andi’s philosophy of ministry can be described as Spirit-led, community driven, and relationally inspired. Andi and her soon-to-be husband are excited to step into a new season of marriage and ministry together!

Denise Tiedemann has been serving the United Methodist Church for over 20 years. Most recently she has served as the lead pastor at DeBows UMC, Pleasant Grove UMC in Jackson and FUMC in Farmingdale. Prior to this appointment, she was the lead pastor at Centenary UMC in Lambertville and Linvale UMC in Ringoes.

Denise, along with her husband Joe, created Jackson Arts Ministry which serves the Jackson area. This ministry offers excellent, low-cost performing arts and enrichment classes to children of all ages, while building self-esteem and pointing all we do to Jesus Christ. Denise was instrumental as part of a church-plant and a church revitalization effort. She and her husband Joe have four wonderful children. Her heart for mission has led her to serve with A Future with Hope and the Skainos Project in Belfast.

Bo Hwan Wang was born in South Korea and moved to Maryland when he was ten years old. He lived in Maryland for sixteen years until he moved to New Jersey with his wife, Hanna, in 2018. Bo received his BM in Guitar from Johns Hopkins University (Peabody) and MDiv. from Wesley Theological Seminary. After finishing his pre-dental studies at UPenn last year, Bo was accepted to study at Rutgers School of Dental Medicine, where he plans to begin the DMD program in Fall 2022. In addition, Bo has been serving as a youth pastor at Calvary KUMC since 2018. As a pastor, Bo hopes to use dentistry as a tool to proclaim the gospel of Jesus Christ, share God’s love, and serve the neighbors in need.

Schuyler Berdan has been working in ministry since 2008, and grew up in Fair Lawn, New Jersey. He has served at Archer United Methodist Church in Allendale since 2015 as the Assistant Pastor. Schuyler is also an On-Site Project Manager for SGS & CO, and works at Sabra Dipping Company in White Plains, New York. In his spare time, he enjoys being crafty, sewing, knitting, painting, and reading. Other hobbies of Schuyler’s include cooking, baking, and most importantly singing. He has been a member of many choirs and finds that “there is nothing like singing for the Lord.

As a “rookie retiree,” Brandon Cho will begin his new ministry at Old FUMC with faith and dedication. He earned his M. Div. and D. Min. from Claremont School of Theology, and an STM from Drew Theological School. Previously, he served with distinction churches of various sizes, ranging from small membership churches to large membership churches with multi-staff.  Brandon is passionate about making disciples, growing disciples, developing vital congregations, empowering lay leadership, next gen ministry, and mission-driven social witness and engagement. With his spouse, Rev. Dr. Jennifer Cho of Bridgewater UMC, Brandon enjoys going to beaches and mountains, traveling, music, and dining with good friends. Brandon and his wife have two adult children.

Tony Nelsen was born and raised outside of Cleveland, Ohio. After answering a call to ministry, Tony studied philosophy at Spring Arbor University and led student worship at the Jackson Interfaith Homeless Shelter. He attended Princeton Theological Seminary and focused on political theology and philosophy. Tony is now attending Rutgers Law School and hopes to reimagine what serving the Church as a pastor lawyer looks like.

Presently, Tony serves at Trinity UMC in Ewing, NJ, as the outreach pastor to the College of New Jersey and a virtual church pastor—growing Trinity’s online presence. His has a passion for seeking justice in local communities and navigating through the tough questions of the Christian faith. Tony is reimagining worship with a focus on multiplying small groups, virtual ministries, and community outreach.

As a native of South Korea, Michelle has served as the pastor of the First UMC of Ridgefield Park, in Ridgefield Park, NJ for 17 years. Michelle brings the gifts of fruit bearing multi-racial/multi-cultural ministries to GNJ Conference. Her ministerial passion includes serving Hispanic day laborers from surrounding areas, and Filipino and Korean parishioners. Michelle is committed to supporting transformational leadership opportunities for people of any culture or gender. During her ministry, she launched three new faith communities and a second campus in Palisades Park. She also has experience as a Circuit Elder, chair of COSROW, DCOM chair, BoOM chair and registrar. She is also a mother and wife. Michelle holds a Master of Divinity from New York Theological Seminary.

Shawn has a passion for pastoral care and ministry. He has been serving as a Hospice Chaplain as well as in several churches as a Licensed Local Pastor. He has a Masters of Divinity from Drew University. He has faithfully served at Tuckerton UMC, West Creek and Brookville UMC’s, and Ballard UMC. He has 3 beautiful children, an excellent partner in ministry- his wife Jennifer, 2 cats, and a dog. He loves kayaking and being outdoors and connecting with the communities he serves.

Ivelisse G. Castellano-Bishop is a native of Puerto Rico.  Ivelisse has 2 sons, an additional son and daughter, and a 3-year-old grandchild.  Both of her parents are retired UMC Elders.  Ivelisse’s first career was financial analysis.  Later she went back to school and earned a BA in Human Development and has worked as a social worker for over 15 years.  In 2011, Ivelisse answered her call to ministry and joined the MDiv Program at Drew Theological Seminary, graduating in 2015.

Sharon has been serving as pastor of congregational care at Trinity, Hackettstown and as a Chaplain in hospice care.  Sharon has also pastored the congregations of Free Union and Vienna churches. Her call is to remind you that “You are loved!” and to make disciples of Jesus Christ, baptizing in his name. Sharon’s call is a direct reflection of her spiritual journey that authenticates her witness to the promise of a new life in Christ. The Holy Spirit has bestowed Sharon with the spiritual gifts of faith, teaching/preaching and leadership.

A devoted wife to her husband, Brian and mother to her children, Jessica, Courtney, and Nicholas, Sharon finds joy in creation, music, and movement.

Yoseb Jeon is a relational pastor who is eager to see God’s abundant grace and love in our daily living. Through his pastoral journey, God has graciously taught him to love and serve God’s precious people, believe the power of prayers, and acknowledge the Lordship of Christ. He is passionate about connecting the resources of God to the needs of people with faithful Christ followers. He has been serving at Hackensack UMC where he was nurtured to grow as a pastor since 2017. Prior to that, he served as an associate English ministry pastor at KUMC of South Jersey, for young adults and college students. Yoseb earned his Master of Divinity degree from Drew Theological School in 2014. He is blessed to have his wife, Yoonjung, and three lovely children, Chloe, Daniel, and Samuel as his life journey companions.

Hyungkoo was born and raised in South Korea. He graduated from Seoul National University with a degree in Atmospheric Science and received an M.div from Drew Theological School in 2019. He has been serving the Hackensack United Methodist Church as a youth pastor since 2018, where he found himself growing with the community. He also discovered his true passion for worship, a heart for missionary work, and social justice in a diversified setting. He is married to Juree with two beautiful daughters: Ria and Roa. He enjoys sports and spending time with his daughters.

Eddie is currently serving as Pastor of Discipleship at St. John’s UMC in Turnersville where he has served the last three and half years. Along with this position, Eddie has served in ministry for 20 years in a number of capacities. Currently, Eddie has nearly completed his M.Div through Asbury Theological Seminary. He serves on the Board of Directors and Buildings Chair and has been a Youth Camp Director for the last 15 years for the West Jersey Grove Association at Malaga Camp.

Eunji Lee was born and raised in South Korea. She received her Bachelor of Theology from Methodist Theological University in Seoul, her Master of Divinity from Drew Theological School, and is currently studying a Master of Arts in Religion at Drew. Eunji’s bountiful pastoral experiences, ranging from children to adults, have made her passionate for multigenerational ministry that connects all ages collaboratively. Eunji firmly believes that one can experience the presence of God in a place where people gather in the name of Jesus, and that one can become a true disciple of Christ by worshiping, serving, and loving.

Gwiseok Lee was born and raised in South Korea. He received his B.A. from Methodist Theological University in Seoul, South Korea, and his M. Div. from Drew Theological School. Since 2017, he has been serving Bountiful UMC of Martinsville.

Gwiseok is a passionate and positive individual who tries to grow a loving congregation. He has the heart to support and help church members reach their own spiritual goals to enhance their faith. In addition, he has a passion to preach and share encouraging messages. He enjoys singing, listening to music and sports, especially table tennis and soccer. He is married to Heea Lee and they have two adorable kids, Evelyn and Henry.

Janice McCrostie has served as the Director of Children and Youth Ministry at Denville Community Church for the last seven years. She is a graduate of Drew Theological School and received her M.Div in the spring of 2021. Prior to answering her call, Janice worked in theatre, receiving a Bachelor of the Arts from West Virginia Wesleyan College and an MLitt in Play Writing from the University of Glasgow. Janice has worked with the Search for Christian Maturity and the 4^th Day Reunion Retreats since 2002, and continues to serve on the Search Retreat as a spiritual advisor.

Kristine Melius has spent over 15 years of her life working and serving in the United Methodist Church. She previously has worked as a youth minister in the Warwick United Methodist Church and in the Hillsdale United Methodist Church. Through her work in youth ministry, Kristine has built youth programs into thriving ministries, helping each student see how they can connect with their community through their faith.

Kristine enjoys building lasting relationships with people within the church and within the community. She enjoys bringing people together in fellowship, journeying with people in their faith walk and helping people grow into what God has called them. In her spare time she loves being with her family and friends, she enjoys getting out in nature and enjoying Gods beauty around her. She along with her husband Victor have two children, Joseph age 21 and Juliette age 16.

Born in Korea and raised in New Jersey, Charlie had taken his first steps as a full Korean-American in the streets of Jersey City when his family emigrated from Korea in 1987. He could not have known then that God also had plans for him to take his first steps as a minister there. So, it is written in the book of life that Charlie was prepared to share his life with the lives of fellow servants of the Lord, and his neighbors in Christ UMC of Jersey City. Charlie received his B.A. from Rutgers University, and when he finally answered the calling from the Lord, he was awarded with an M.A. in Religious Education from New York Theological Seminary.

Sean Seokman Park has been serving Korean Community Church of New Jersey as an associate pastor for about eight years. Previously, he served as the pastor at Cokesbury United Methodist Church and Fairmount United Methodist Church. Sean was ordained as an elder at GNJ in 2014. He graduated from Drew Theological School, where he earned an M.Div. He obtained a master of social work from Monmouth University. Currently, he is in a Doctoral of Ministry program at Drew Theological Seminary. He cannot stop praising God for how the Lord uses him to broaden the Kingdom of Heaven. Sean is happily married to Jean Younglim Park, and a grateful father of two sons: Jimin and Joseph. Jimin is in college. Joseph is a senior in high school.

Sue Jung Shin was born in Queens, NY, raised in Seoul, Korea, and lived in NJ for 18 years. She received a Th.M. from Yonsei University in Seoul and earned her M.Div. at Wesley Theological Seminary in DC and a Ph.D. in Biblical Studies at Drew University. She has been teaching the Old Testament in different seminaries including WTS, Moravian Theological Seminary and New Brunswick Theological Seminary. She has served various congregations over the past years as an educator, youth pastor, social worker and Bible instructor. She is passionate about the living word of God in scripture and believes we can make it relevant to our present lives. She likes sports, music, and loves to cook.

In 1972, John Suh moved from South Korea to South Bronx, NY. He grew up in the projects and played baseball for Cardinal Spellman High. John loves Disco, Salsa, and Barry White. He attended University of Hawaii and finished at NYU with a degree in English Lit. John married the love of his life and later went to law school in at Boston University. He has been a lawyer in New York since 1993. John is blessed with three sons, two daughter-in-law’s, one granddaughter, and a wife who prays constantly. He will be graduating from Drew Theological School in the spring of 2022. He has been serving at Arcola Covenant Community, the church that he loves.

Zachary Taylor has served as pastor of New Hope Penns Grove since 2018. Originally from Franklinville, he earned his B.A. in Secondary Education and History from Rowan University, and M.Div. from Boston University School of Theology. In his spare time, he enjoys reading, fishing, taking long walks, traveling, and visiting historical sites. As a pastor, he has a passion for the outcast and the misfit and teaching hope in an age of uncertainty.

Tiffany began serving in the Church when she was just fourteen as a worship leader. She began her ministry in GNJ as the Worship Leader at Lifegate Church in Somers Point, NJ, and then became their Assistant Pastor. Since 2020, Tiffany has served as the Pastor of New Egypt UMC and Cookstown UMC in Central New Jersey. She has a passion for making the Word of God accessible by presenting the Gospel in fresh and creative ways. Tiffany is married to her supportive husband Joe, and together they have one son, Isaiah Matthew. Tiffany loves to spend time with family and friends in her free time and also enjoys all forms of arts and entertainment.

­Rev. Jung Ung Moon is a church planter, great preacher, spiritual leader and church developer. He planted a Korean church within a traditional English-speaking church where he conducted multicultural and multi-ethnic ministries centered around the Bible. This has become a church that continues to grow by achieving harmony between the English-speaking and Korean-language congregations. Rev. Moon received an M.Div degree from Drew Theological Seminary and Th.M from Yonsei University.

Tiffany S. Murphy moved from the Midwest in 1995 to the East Coast to pursue her bachelor’s in music in Boston, and MDiv, DMin from Palmer Seminary. Her DMin was focused on Social Justice and Social engagement in the local church which she feels are so important in these changing times. In 2020, she was commissioned as a Provisional Elder. In her spare time, she loves caring for her dog Bailey, her only child. She believes that God wants us to be like the Good Samaritan, who was willing to move beyond their personal beliefs to help someone in need.

Sunghyuk Kim was born in Seoul, South Korea, and spent his elementary years in La Palma, California. He holds a B.Th. from Methodist Theological University in Seoul, M.Div. from Drew Theological School, and is finishing his S.T.M from Drew Theological School. He has completed Clinical Pastoral Education (Level 1) at Morristown Medical Center. Sunghyuk has served Arcola Korean UMC in various ministries as an Assistant Pastor and is currently serving Wesley UMC in Edison as a Lead Pastor. He has the heart to engage and increase the vitality of worship. Sunghyuk is happy to serve the Lord with his wife, Joy who is serving Bridgewater UMC as a Music Specialist.

Sanggeun Jo, also called Sam, was born and raised in South Korea where he served as a pastor of the English Ministry at Chungdong First Methodist Church in Seoul. Since coming to the US in 2014, He served as youth pastor at Monmouth Grace United Methodist Church in Eatontown for three years and is currently serving at Union Grove United Methodist Church and Willow Grove United Methodist Church since 2018.

He graduated from Hyupsung University in South Korea with Bachelor of Theology from Hyupsung University, and from Drew Theological School with an M.Div. Sanggeun is passionate about how to grow spiritually in the works of the Holy Spirit and to live out Jesus-Centered life daily. He enjoys music, especially playing the piano, guitar and drum, and sports. He is married to Katie Kim, and they’ve got a baby on the way, due in April.

Denise Tiedemann has been serving the United Methodist Church for over 20 years. Most recently she has served as the lead pastor at DeBows UMC, Pleasant Grove UMC in Jackson and FUMC in Farmingdale. Prior to this appointment, she was the lead pastor at Centenary UMC in Lambertville and Linvale UMC in Ringoes.

Denise, along with her husband Joe, created Jackson Arts Ministry which serves the Jackson area. This ministry offers excellent, low-cost performing arts and enrichment classes to children of all ages, while building self-esteem and pointing all we do to Jesus Christ. Denise was instrumental as part of a church-plant and a church revitalization effort. She and her husband Joe have four wonderful children. Her heart for mission has led her to serve with A Future with Hope and the Skainos Project in Belfast.

HyunHui Kim was born, raised, and educated in South Korea. Her cross-cultural experiences have been formative in ministry, embodying the beauty in diversity and the harmony in differences.  She has served in various ministries from Pre-K to adult groups, most recently with West Grove UMC in Neptune and Old Frist UMC in West Long Branch.

HyunHui completed her M. Div at Drew Theological School and currently is a candidate for the Doctor of Philosophy degree in Theological and Philosophical Studies at Drew University. She anticipates graduating in May 2022. Her dissertation title is Relational Realism and Theopolitics: A Post-Oppositional Theology of Social Identities. She is passionate about making the Scriptures come alive and have meaning for the daily lives of her congregation.

Lark McCalman has been fortunately blessed and anointed to serve as pastor to the vibrant and Spirit filled congregation of Park Avenue St. John’s UMC since 2018. In the past, she has served at Wesley UMC in South Plainfield as an assistant pastor.

Lark was born in Guyana South America and received her M.Div. from Drew Theology School. She believes that the church should be without borders and a welcoming place for everyone to find acceptance, love and respect. Lark considers everyone as her neighbor. She leads by example, whilst empowering others to grow and develop the skills necessary to be strong leaders.

She is passionate about social justice and loves to read and to travel around the world with her family to better appreciate and understand her neighbors.

Han Kil Kim is currently serving Neshanic and Sergeantsville UMC. He received his B.A. and Th.M. degrees from Methodist Theological University in Seoul, South Korea, and his M. Div. from Drew Theological School. He is passionate about casting and sharing the vision with church members, identifying their gifts, and inviting them to the place where they can serve God and God’s people. He believes that God has called him to make devoted influencers and send them to the mission field. Han, as ever, enjoys coffee and donuts with the people he loves and spending time with them.

Onay served as a pastor in the Methodist Church in Cuba for 12 years and was ordained as an Elder there in 2009. He moved with his family to NJ in 2012 and started a new Hispanic congregation from scratch in Bound Brook UMC and later was appointed the Senior Pastor of the church. In 2015 was received as a Full Elder of Greater New Jersey. He graduated from Drew University with an M.Div. in 2017. He is currently serving at St. Paul’s UMC in Paulsboro. He has served as Chair of the National Plan for Hispanic-Latino Ministries and member of the Cultural Competence Task Force, Raritan Valley District Committee on Ordained Ministry, Raritan Valley District Poverty Task Force, and Justice For Our Neighbors. He is passionate about evangelism and church growth. His favorite phrase is “God will make a way where there seems to be no way.” He is married to his wife Odaisy, and they have two children, Gaby, and Matthew.

Byungil (B-Young-il ) who was ordained as an elder at the GNJ in 2011, has served at Alloway & Canton UMC in Salem County, and Morganville UMC in Monmouth County. He has been blessed with wonderful congregations that helped him grow as a pastor and a person. He currently serves on the District Committee on Ordained Ministry. He has M. Div. from Drew Theological Seminary in Madison NJ. He is passionate about ministries of sharing the word of God, pastoral care, and building relationship with diverse people. He believes people are important because for them Jesus came, died, and was raised. Byungil has been married for 23 years to his wife Hyenjung Moon, and has two children, Jane and Chloe, both are college students.

Joe is married to Denise with four amazing children: Gabby, Curtis, Paul, and Claire. God has graciously worked in Joe’s life to redeem, call, and equip him for ministry in GNJ. He graduated from Seton Hall with a B.A. and M.A.; worked as a social worker before starting seminary at Fuller and then graduated from New Brunswick with an M. Div. in 2003. He has been blessed to serve at Trinity in Spotswood (1999-2010) and Jackson Church (2010-present). In both appointments, he was privileged to witness God’s power at work through the leaders and members of those churches to transform lives, making disciples of Jesus Christ. He enjoys running and time with his family.

Cliff graduated from Palmer Theological Seminary, where he achieved a M. Div. He is a lifelong resident of Lawnside, NJ and has served the community for twenty-nine years as Councilman, and also as President of Council. Clifford has served in many roles within the United Methodist Church; President of the Board of Trustees, President of the Nehemiah Project, and currently serves as the vice chair on the conference Council of Finance and Administration. He was appointed as Pastor at Venice Park UMC, Atlantic City, NJ on July 1, 2008.  Six years later, he was also appointed to Hamilton Memorial UMC and has served both churches as Senior Pastor since his appointments. Clifford and his wife, Sonia have three adult children and five grandchildren. He enjoys family, friends, and sports but most of all he enjoys seeing and participating in the move of the Holy Spirit.

Iraida earned an M. Div. from Drew Theological School and was ordained while serving at Hasbrouck Heights and Paterson. She is currently serving at Christ UMC. Iraida is a Certified Spiritual Director, a Lewis Community Leadership Fellow, and a Spiritual Inventory Certified Practitioner. She serves on GNJ agencies, is a circuit elder, candidacy mentor, and is in the final stages of a DMin at Drew. Iraida finds joy in listening to folk seeking God amid life circumstances. She has a daughter, Alexandra, and her husband, Kevin, has two children and grandchildren. Her hobbies are contemplative photography, golf, crafting, and fur baby Sally.

Wil has served as pastor of the First UMC of Freehold, NJ since 2018. Previously, he served as the associate pastor at Central UMC in Linwood, NJ. Wil received his B.A. in History and Education from Eastern University and holds an M. Div from Candler School of Theology. Wil’s ministry began in Fargo, ND, serving as a US-2 missionary with Global Ministries from 2011-13. Wil is married to Ashley Wilson, a US-2 alum and Candler graduate. Together they have 3 children, Aria and newborn twins: Tre (William III) and Wesley! Wil enjoys time with family and Philly sports, especially the Philadelphia Eagles.

Javier has served for seven years in Puerto Rico and four years at GNJ. He is an active ordained elder appointed at Fourth United Methodist Church, Millville. He graduated with an M.Div. at the Evangelical Seminary of Puerto Rico with prior preparation in design and fine arts. He uses his passion in arts and music to serve God wherever he can go. His family consists of his beloved wife Diana and their children David and Gabriela. He has served at GNJ’s Praise Band, Walk to Emmaus CELE Spiritual Leader (Hispanic/Latin Community), GNJ CUIR Board, Delaware Bay District DCOM member, Trinity First Hope Center VP, Communications Team President in Puerto Rico, and others.

Josh is an ordained elder and has served as the pastor of First United Methodist Church of Williamstown since 2016. He has served in local church ministry for 21 years in a variety of roles. Prior to his appointment at Williamstown, he served St. John’s United Methodist Church in Turnersville for 10 years as the Youth Director and Associate Pastor. He is a graduate of Asbury Seminary and was awarded the Denman Evangelism Award in 2021. Josh enjoys spending time with his wife Kate, and four children, Christina, Suze, Bridget & Micah.

Tim has served as pastor of First United Methodist Church in Hammonton, NJ, since 2018. He is currently a student at Drew Theological School working toward his M. Div. Tim is a storyteller who is passionate about storytelling and creativity in the worship experience, by integrating innovative ways to communicate the Good News. He works towards fostering a benevolent community where all are welcome and belong. In his leisure, he likes to read, listen to podcasts, and hike with his wife, Emily, and two sons, Quentin, and Rhett.

Cameron has been serving Cranford United Methodist Church since 2014 and currently serves on the Raritan Valley District Committee on Ministry. For the past 3 years, he has been the President of the Cranford Clergy Council and has joined with other local community leaders in developing the Cranford Equity and Inclusivity Initiative. Cameron is passionate about building unique and meaningful communities rooted in the radical and humble love of Christ. He holds a B.A. in Theology from Valparaiso University and an M. Div. from Duke Divinity School. Cameron and his wife, Kelsie celebrate their 10th wedding anniversary this year and have two children, Samuel and Matheson along with their dog, Tucker.

Blair is an ordained elder with an M. Div. from the United Theological Seminary. He has been serving as a pastor in GNJ since 2013, and his current appointment to Island Heights UMC began in 2016. Blair and wife Joan have partnered in ministry for over twenty-five years with experience in Sunday school, VBS, drama ministry, and youth leadership. They have three grown children and four granddaughters. Blair has a background in the performing arts and is also a landscape artist. He relaxes by fishing and going on nature walks and is also an avid runner.

Ralph is a child of God. He is the son of The Rev. Dr. Lloyd and Marguerite Terrell. He is married to Radeyah Terrell and is the proud father of 5 beautiful children Kyla, Yohan, Ralph, Preston, and Ronald. Ralph has served churches in Newark, NJ, Atlantic City, NJ, Neshanic Station, NJ, and Hillsborough, NJ. He is currently serving a 2-point charge in Newark at the Trinity and St. Matthew’s United Methodist Churches. He received his M.Div in 2004 from the Theological School at Drew University.

William D. Carter, III is a transformational leader and has served as lead pastor of Pemberton UMC, one of three of the oldest United Methodist Churches in the country, since 2017. He is an alumnus of Princeton Theological Seminary, where he obtained a Master of Divinity degree. Most recently, he completed a certificate program at Cornell University in Diversity & Inclusion. William is a doctoral student in the Penn Chief Learning Officer Program at the University of Pennsylvania. Presently, he serves as Circuit Leader in the Central District, Journey of Hope Team, and the Conference Council on Finance and Administration.

John Inverso is an ordained elder and has served as the pastor of First UMC, Glassboro since 2017. John has a passion for youth and young adult ministries and for making disciple-makers. Prior to that, he served in a cooperative parish that included five churches in the Gateway South District. He serves on the Delaware Bay District Committee on Ordained Ministry. John has an M.Div. from Palmer Theological Seminary and an M.A. in English from Rutgers University. He and his wife, Christy have a four-year-old son, Ben, and a dog named Scooby-Doo.

Karline “Kay” Dubuisson, a Palmer Theological Seminary graduate, is an ordained elder and has served the UMC of Spring Valley since 2015. Kay identifies community outreach, spiritual formation, and pastoral care as some of her gifts in ministry. She has a passion of inviting others to a deeper relationship with God and bringing diverse people together to carry out the work of Christ in the community. Kay has served on several boards: the Connectional Table, Ethnic Local Church Concerns, Palisades District Poverty Task, and is a circuit elder. Kay and her husband Edvard are the proud parents of four children, and their beloved Pekehund, Sulli. In her free time, Kay enjoys reading, traveling, and spending time with family and friends.

Ninabeth Metcalf is an ordained elder in the UMC. She has served as the pastor for the Panther Valley Ecumenical Church and Knowlton UMC. She serves on the Metro-Highlands District Committee on Ministry, as a Circuit Elder, and on the Commission on Christian Unity and Inter-Religious Concerns. Ninabeth graduated from Drew Theological School with a Master’s of Divinity and from the Rhode Island School of Design with a Bachelor of Fine Arts. Ninabeth is married to Ken and they have three adult children, a cat, and two Golden Retrievers.

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. She received her Master of Divinity From Drew Theological Seminary. She has served at Neshanic, Sergeantsville, and Washington UMC. Marissa is passionate about mission and helping congregations connect with their communities.

Mark has served churches in Washington, DC, Chicago, IL, Jersey City, and Hoboken, NJ. During his ministry he became a firm believer that church is something you do, questions about faith and God are good, and community can be built anywhere. Mark loves photography, biking, traveling with his wife Meredith, rock climbing with his daughter Elise, and laughing with his daughter Nora. He has two degrees from Boston University, a bachelor’s in hospitality administration and a Master’s of Divinity.

Sung Chun Ahn was born and raised in South Korea in the Korean Methodist tradition. He came to the U.S in 2006 and served First Korean UMC in Cherry Hill for 9 years as an associate pastor, 4 years part-time, and 5 years full-time. He has been serving Centenary UMC – Berlin since July 2017. Sung Chun has a passion for worship, small group, community outreach, and mission. He loves to play a variety of sports including baseball, basketball, soccer, and bowling. He is also a highly talented musician who can play piano, guitar, and drums.

Sung Chun received his Bachelor of Theology at Methodist Theology University in Seoul, Korea, and his Master of Divinity from Drew Theological School. He is married to Minju Gu, and has three children: an 11-year-old girl, Soyoon, an 8-year boy, Joowon, and a 5-year-old girl, Hayoon.

Evan Dodge is an ordained Elder in Full Connection in the Greater New Jersey Conference. He holds a Master of Divinity from Drew Theological School, a Doctor of Ministry degree from United Theological Seminary, and is currently completing post-graduate studies in pastoral care and counseling at Baptist Seminary of Kentucky. He has served Belvidere UMC, Broadway UMC, Port Colden UMC, and McCrea Memorial UMC in Port Murray. Evan was born and raised on the coast of Maine and loves the ocean, reading, spending time with his children, and music. He is married to Amanda and they have three daughters, Auden, Amelia, and Beatrice.

Jana Purkis-Brash is currently serving as the Executive Director of the Stewardship Foundation of GNJ. She previously served several local churches in GNJ and taught at Palmer Theological Seminary. She has an M.Div from Drew University and a B.A. in Liberal Arts from SUNY, Old Westbury. She currently serves on the Central district DCOM and as a member of the Board of Directors of United Methodist Communities and has previously served on the Board of Ordained Ministry and as chair of the Order of Elders. She and her husband, Don have one daughter, Leah and two grandchildren.

Kate Hillis is an ordained elder and has served as lead pastor of UMC Madison, Hopewell UMC and Lumberton UMC, and as the Children’s pastor at Kingston UMC. She has served on various GNJ boards, as circuit elder, and facilitator for the Leadership Academy and Local Pastor’s School. She also served for 5 years as a chaplain at Trenton Psychiatric Hospital and 6 years as a staff consultant for Ministry Architects. Kate holds an MDiv/MA in Christian Education from Princeton Theological Seminary, as well as a BA in Religion from Houghton College. In her downtime, she loves hiking, running, cooking, and spending time with her partner and family.

Rev. Erica (Milone) Munoz was ordained an Elder in Full Connection in 2012. She grew up in the Newton UMC and went on to receive a Bachelors of Music Education from WV Wesleyan College and a M.Div from the Boston University School of Theology. She also obtained a Certificate in Youth and Young Adult Ministry from the Boston Theological Institute. Upon graduation, she was appointed as the GNJ Coordinator of Children, Youth and Young Adult Ministries and Safe Sanctuaries. In 2014 she was appointed to Aldersgate UMC in East Brunswick and has served as the Chair of the Raritan Valley District Committee on Ministry, Secretary of the GNJ Board of Pensions and Health Benefits and is currently a Circuit Elder in the Metro Highlands region. She and her husband, Matt, have two children, Madelyn 9 and Braelon 6, and a Goldendoodle named Hazel.

Jessica Brendler Naulty has served as the pastor of the UMC of Red Bank since 2014. A graduate of Drew Theological School and a fourth-generation UM pastor, Jessica has a passion for helping others experience God’s love and growing into their best selves through worship, small groups, and mission. She believes we can transform the world in God’s love one heart at a time. Prior to answering her call, she taught high school Environmental Science, and still finds joy and awe in the complexity of God’s amazing creation. Jessica is the proud mother of two amazing children, Alyssa and Kristie.