Leadership

Pastor, Bob Strauss

Thanks so much for checking out our website. We have so much that we want to share with you. Having served as a pastor for over 30 years, I was appointed to Jarrettown as Senior Pastor in 2014. What a joy it is to share in ministry with the folks here in our community! My passion is helping people reach their full potential as followers of Jesus Christ.

My wife, Laurie, and I have been married for almost 30 years. We have two wonderful children, one amazing grandson, and three beautiful granddaughters. I love spending time with my family “down the shore” and have a special weakness for a good pizza.

I hope to see you in church. God bless!

Ministry Director, Jean Graber

I live with my husband, Rick, and we have three adult children and three grandsons.

I have worked in church ministry most of my life and I love it.  I enjoy working with the staff and volunteers who are dedicated to the ministries and missions at Jarrettown.  I enjoy supporting the many current programs and also helping to start new programs.

If you would like to get involved in any of Jarrettown’s ministries or have a new idea, please don’t hesitate to contact me. Being involved in your church’s ministries is a great way to grow Spiritually with God, to build relationships with your church family and to find opportunities to do outreach and serve with others.

Children’s Ministry Coordinator, Lisa Durst-Hestnar

As Children’s Ministry Coordinator, my goal is to always focus on enhancing the loving and spiritual environment for the children of Jarrettown United Methodist Church (JUMC).  I believe the left hand holds your faith in God and the right hand carries your creativity and purpose.  Together they encompass the strength to build a strong foundation for our lives and our children.

My professional experience includes of over 25 years in the field of public relations and marketing, along with my current volunteer background in children’s programs with Our Lady of Mercy School in Maple Glen, Girls Scouts of America and MOPS (Mother’s of Preschoolers) at JUMC. I graduated from Chestnut Hill College with a degree in English and a certificate in Communication.  I also hold a certificate in Editing and a certificate of Frontline Leadership.

I am a Philadelphia native – born and raised in the Mayfair section of Northeast Philadelphia.  I moved to Montgomery County over 15 years ago, and currently reside in Horsham with my husband Jon and our daughter Meredith.

Youth Director, Derek Mancke

I grew up in Flourtown going to church my whole life. I still reside in Flourtown and currently attend Jarrettown most Sundays, as well as New Life. I graduated from Montgomery County Community College with an SRT (Sound Recording Technology) degree. I’ve been working with younger kids for a few years now at the MOMentum care that is hosted here at the church. I am beyond excited to be working with the youth and excited to meet everyone.

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Music Ministry, Sheri Melcher

SHERI MELCHER (Choir Director, Organist, Praise Band Keyboardist) is the owner and director of the Creative and Performing Arts Academy (CaPAA) at the Ritz Theater in Scranton, PA. She is a music educator, professional pianist, music director and choral director with Bachelor of Music degrees in Piano Performance and Pedagogy from Peabody Conservatory and a Music Education PK-12th grade certification and Masters of Music degree from Temple University. She has had an extensive performance career, including recitals at Carnegie Hall and taught for over 20 years at Springside-Chestnut Hill Academy in Phila., PA. She has musically directed hundreds of productions for elementary, middle, high school and college programs as well as for community and professional theatre companies. Sheri is particularly proud of her work as the music director for Harry Connick Jr’s children’s musical, The Happy Elf, which premiered in 2014 in Bethlehem, PA. Sheri has been serving as the choral director, organist & praise band keyboardist at Jarrettown United Methodist since 2008. She resides in the Poconos with her husband Michael and her children, Kayla and Sam.

Contemporary Worship Leader, Kelly Anlas

I grew up attending Jarrettown Church, and I live with my husband Anthony and our son. I am also a preschool teacher at Momentum Co-Working.

I have enjoyed singing since I was little and have been playing guitar since my high school days. Being a part of a praise team has been a big part of my life for over 15 years now. Worship brings me spiritual connection to God and to others, and my goal is to help people build a relationship with God through music and praise as well. I’m excited to be a part of the hardworking team at Jarrettown Church and look forward to seeing you in worship!

Admin Assistant, Wendy Hamilton

I have been a member of Jarrettown Church, along with my family, since 1998. In 2013 I joined the staff at Jarrettown UMC. I have enjoyed the many challenges, working with the wonderful Jarrettown Staff and volunteers, and having the opportunity to grow closer to the Jarrettown congregation.

 

Visitation Ministry, Connie Damon

Those who have the gift of listening, caring and sharing are invited to join those of us who visit in homes and senior facilities where our members can benefit from our sharing monthly. We may also share Communion, read Scripture and pray with those we visit. Contact Connie Damon at jarrettownumcoffice@gmail.com if this is a ministry you feel called to join.

 

Custodian, Mark Schwarz

I’ve been a long-time Methodist since growing up on the Main Line in Narberth. My family and I joined Jarrettown in 2000. My wife, Patti, and I have resided in Meadowbrook for the past 15 years. I recently retired from my home repair & carpentry business. With this background, I have served on trustees for many years. I’m pleased to join the dedicated JUMC staff and look forward to serving as maintenance supervisor. As Patti always says, “Mark is handy to have around!”

 

Technology Team, Jean Graber

Our tech team works hard to enhance the Sunday worship experience, whether in the sanctuary or online. We are always looking for new members to join our efforts.  For information contact the coordinator, Jean Graber.