From Roman Catholic priest to Lutheran minister! This has been the latest twist in my journey since my ordination in 1990. Having made the transition into ministry in the ELCA, First Lutheran Church is my first call. One could say that First is my first! I believe that this is an exciting time to be in the church, but we need to be looking toward new horizons. To be spiritual today can encompass a wide variety of beliefs and practices. Today we need to be open and in conversation with people both inside and outside of churches. The evangelical freedom that we celebrate in the ELCA affords me the opportunity to think “outside of the box” and to celebrate the diversity of people’s spiritual paths. The journey continues to unfold for all of us! We can move forward with confidence knowing that the Mystery that beckons us forward is worthy of our trust!

For more than twenty years, Julie has been serving as Parish Administrator here at First Lutheran Church.  Born and raised Lutheran, she became a member of First Lutheran in 1999.  She also sings in the Chancel Choir.  “I feel like this is what I am meant to do,” she says when asked why she liked her job so much.  “There is rarely a slow time at FLC.  There is always something going on that keeps me busy.”

In high school, after seeing a picture of Notre Dame in her French class, Susan dreamed of playing in the great cathedrals of the world and she’s had the opportunity to play at a few. She has given recitals at several churches in NYC, Columbia University, the Chester Cathedral in England, The American Cathedral in Paris,  and La Compania de Jesus Cathedral in Quito, Ecuador.

Susan received her bachelor of music degree from Wheaton College, Illinois and went on to pursue graduate studies in organ performance at The Juilliard School, where she studied with Jon Gillock. She also studied oil painting at the Art Students League of New York and enjoys presenting concerts and art shows together.  A native of Scotia, NY  Susan says, “There’s no place like home!” and she loves being the music director and playing at First Lutheran Church of Albany.

In 2017, Kevin became a member of First Lutheran Church and also began his official position as Property Manager. His involvement with the church began through his service as a volunteer for the Albany Damien Center while they were located in our building. As a dedicated volunteer, Kevin’s services included helping with various tasks around the building and filling-in for our previous Property Manager. We are truly blessed with Kevin’s work, he is gifted at working with people, something that began years ago with several years of retail experience, including time as a manager for Casual Male Big and Tall and Namco Pool and Patio. Kevin offered this quote, “I am very proud to be a part of this church and my newly found Lutheran family.”