Staff
Paula Ulrich, Pastor
Pastor Paula came to the Church of the Brethren as a student studying music at Bridgewater College (VA). She was drawn to the CoB because of its core values: following Jesus, practicing peace, seeking justice, and engaging in service. She also felt drawn to the Brethren ordinances of anointing for physical, emotional, and spiritual well-being, and Love Feast with its humble act of washing one another's feet. She graduated from Bethany Theological Seminary in 2008 with a Master of Divinity degree, was ordained at Nettle Creek Church of the Brethren (IN) in 2009, and has been in ministry since. She feels passionate about following Jesus and interpreting scripture through the lens and law of love, and as a pastor, treasures the opportunity to share in people's lives, participate in the vision and mission of the congregation, and create meaningful worship opportunities. She feels grateful to be part of this community of faith that welcomes, supports, and affirms all people with a commitment to inclusion, service, and loving one another, the world, and our earth. She and her husband, Dan, have been married for over 40 years, and they share two adult children: Rachel who lives in Richmond, Indiana, and Genna who lives in Portland, Maine, with their spouse, Hannah. Her personal interests include creating a peaceful, beautiful home, cooking creatively, and exploring ethnic cuisine and other cultures.
Anna lisa gross, pastor
pastorannalisa@beaconheights.net
Anna Lisa Gross is rooted in the Church of the Brethren and continues to be part of this community because we strive to continue the work of Jesus, peacefully, simply, together. Anna Lisa has a M.Div. from Bethany Theological Seminary and a B.A. in Journalism. Her ordination is in the Church of the Brethren and she’s also pastored in the United Church of Christ. She grew up on a small organic farm near North Manchester and has also lived in India, Northern Ireland, Guatemala, Oregon, Minnesota, Pennsylvania and Mexico. Anna Lisa and her husband Phillip lived in a van with three dogs and two cats, and learned to appreciate plumbing. Now they live in a small house (much bigger than a van) that Phillip built, back on that family farm near North Manchester.
Melody Tyree, music director
Melody is the very talented singer/pianist for the Beacon Heights music program. She coordinates and leads the choir, solo performances, hand bell choir, and the more contemporary musical selections. Her passion for music comes through in her creative, musical spirit, melding traditional hymns with modern expressions of faith through song. Melody enjoys spending quality time with her three young adult daughters.
TEGHAN HAMMOND, office manager
Teghan is a published author as well as the office manager and loves to write in her free time. She lives with her partner and three adorable cats who are their whole world. She loves good coffee and good food.