Pastor Chris Weidner, Bridge Pastor
Christopher (aka Pastor Chris) Weidner continues to wonder and explore what it means to be called "Christ-bearer". Originally from Bridgewater, NJ and aware of an early sense of "call", he had a curious and circuitous journey to seminary (Philadelphia, 1985) and parish ministry. He has served congregations in Bethlehem, Reading and Gilbertsville PA and more recently in several interim ministry settings. He's found joy and challenge in collaborative urban work, volunteer hospital chaplaincy, outdoor ministry, Synod Council, a companion parish in Tanzania, and supporting seminarians. His life partner Jane Dunbar died five years ago of cancer. Officially retired, he senses God nudging him still. He'd tell you that his prayer-life includes writing, singing in a community chorus, getting behind a camera and being Papa to three young grandchildren in NW Philadelphia and Washington DC. One thing he has discovered about being called Christopher is that Christ keeps bearing, and bearing with, him in grace and steadfast love! And he hopes to pass it on!
If you wish to contact Pr. Chris, you can reach him by contacting the Church Office at 610-363-6264.
If you wish to contact Pr. Chris, you can reach him by contacting the Church Office at 610-363-6264.
Cari Kramer, Director of Administration and Preschool
Cari Kramer has been a member of at St. Paul’s since 1991. She became involved first as a volunteer at VBS, then on the Mutual Ministry committee, then Council for 8 years. She came onto the staff as assistant administrator in 1991. In 1993, St. Paul’s began a preschool here (following in the steps of the previous preschool in the old church). Cari, with the help of many others, got this ministry started (more than twenty five years ago). She is now the Administrative Director of St. Paul’s and also the Director of St. Paul’s Preschool.
Lyndsey Holmes, Director of Music
I grew up as a member of St. Paul’s Lutheran Church where I was baptized and confirmed. I spent summers attending vacation bible school here and later was active with St. Paul’s adult theater group, St. Paul’s Players. During my time away at Roanoke College, I strived to maintain a connection with St. Paul’s by offering special music over the summers and at Christmas. I loved giving back to my church through music during that time and I feel blessed to be serving my home congregation now as Director of Music.
After graduation, I returned to Lionville and worked as Director of Music Ministries at the United Methodist of the Resurrection (now part of Exton UMC). Following that, I spent nine years in Chicago where I worked as an arranger and background vocalist for gospel musicians, a conductor for the Chicago Children’s Choir, general music teacher at The Frances Xavier Warde School and music coordinator and cantor for children’s sacraments at Old St. Patrick’s Church. Throughout all of that, church music was a common thread and I’m so happy to be back to my home in church music.
As Director of Music at St. Paul’s, I conduct the various children, youth and adult music ensembles, lead the worship team for the contemporary service and coordinate special music opportunities. My goal is for the music ministries at St. Paul’s to support the church’s mission and contribute to the vibrant spiritual life of the congregation.
I want to encourage all members to share their musical talents as a way to celebrate Christ’s gracious gifts. My office door is open on Mondays and Thursdays from 1-3pm, but as my schedule varies frequently, appointments are recommended. I can be reached at 610-363-6264.
After graduation, I returned to Lionville and worked as Director of Music Ministries at the United Methodist of the Resurrection (now part of Exton UMC). Following that, I spent nine years in Chicago where I worked as an arranger and background vocalist for gospel musicians, a conductor for the Chicago Children’s Choir, general music teacher at The Frances Xavier Warde School and music coordinator and cantor for children’s sacraments at Old St. Patrick’s Church. Throughout all of that, church music was a common thread and I’m so happy to be back to my home in church music.
As Director of Music at St. Paul’s, I conduct the various children, youth and adult music ensembles, lead the worship team for the contemporary service and coordinate special music opportunities. My goal is for the music ministries at St. Paul’s to support the church’s mission and contribute to the vibrant spiritual life of the congregation.
I want to encourage all members to share their musical talents as a way to celebrate Christ’s gracious gifts. My office door is open on Mondays and Thursdays from 1-3pm, but as my schedule varies frequently, appointments are recommended. I can be reached at 610-363-6264.
Sheila Lanzalotto, Joint Director of Youth Ministry
I am the Joint Director of Youth Ministry at St Paul's and St Matthew's Lutheran churches. I have lived in the Downingtown area with my husband and our four children, since 2006. Prior to that time I lived in Worcester, about 45 minutes away. I spent most of my working life in the finance field, but have been volunteering my time with youth since graduating from the University of Delaware. In the last several years I have felt God calling me to make a greater commitment to Youth, and the rest is history. I love reading, walking, biking and watching all kinds of sports (my competitive playing days are behind me). I also enjoy museums, theater and music.
I can be reached by phone 610-363-6264 x205.
Follow our joint youth programs on Twitter, Instagram and Facebook.
I can be reached by phone 610-363-6264 x205.
Follow our joint youth programs on Twitter, Instagram and Facebook.
Karen Slyman, Administrative Assistant
Karen has worked at St. Paul's for over 13 years. She lives a mile down the road from St. Paul's and actually used to live directly across the street from the church before that.
She and her husband, Tom, have two daughters who are members of St. Paul's: Katie who lives in North Carolina, and Kelly who is attending Kutztown University. Karen is a member of Jubilant Bells, St. Paul's bell choir, and is also involved one of St. Paul's fellowship groups, Women's Inc. She can be reached by calling 610-363-6264, or just walking into the front office.
She and her husband, Tom, have two daughters who are members of St. Paul's: Katie who lives in North Carolina, and Kelly who is attending Kutztown University. Karen is a member of Jubilant Bells, St. Paul's bell choir, and is also involved one of St. Paul's fellowship groups, Women's Inc. She can be reached by calling 610-363-6264, or just walking into the front office.
Brian Lloyd, Organist & Accompanist
Brian is the organist for the traditional service, accompanist for the late service, and provides special music for many services throughout the year.