Staff
Seminary Interns from Princeton Theological Seminary
For many decades, our Congregation has served as a training site for students from area seminaries as they learn the practical skills of ministry. Our students learn about ministry through hands-on leadership in areas in the life of the congregation, coursework, and weekly theological supervision with Pastor Shannan. Students from years-past have all enjoyed the deep hospitality and caring of the Watchung Avenue Presbyterian Church and the challenging environment in which to learn how to serve in ordained ministry. We are currently working through the Office of Field Education at Princeton Theological Seminary and the Office of Field Education at New Brunswick Theological Seminary. If you would like to be considered for placement during the next academic year at Watchung Avenue, please contact Pastor Shannan at the Church Office to schedule an interview and visit to the Church.
Ann Elyse Hicks—Seminary Intern
Before beginning her seminary education at Princeton Theological in 2011, Ann Elyse lived in her home state of Virginia. She worked in childcare for several years, and has also served as a youth ministry intern and Vacation Bible School director. She is seeking ordination in the PC(USA), and is currently an Inquirer in her home Presbytery.
Ann Elyse holds a BA in Religious Studies from the College of William and Mary, and is serving a summer field education in 2012 in Ghana, Africa. Her other interests include writing, art, and hiking.
Contact Ann Elyse Hicks
Mark Smith—Seminary Intern
Mark is in his second year at Princeton Theological Seminary and has recently completed a summer internship in Clinical Pastoral Education as a Chaplain at Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital in Hamilton, NJ.
Mark lives in Hamilton, NJ with his wife Carolyn, and has participated in the church in numerous roles at his home church, The Presbyterian Church of Lawrenceville, and in his home Presbytery, New Brunswick.
Mark is an Inquirer in the process of seeking ordination as a Teaching Elder (Minister of the Word and Sacrament) in the PC(USA).
Contact Mark Smith
Greta Martin-Worthy – Administrative Assistant
Greta began her career in dance and theatre, and over time has transitioned to administrative work while still maintaining connections in the world of dance that she still serves as a teacher. A resident of North Plainfield, Greta grew up in the Presbyterian Church and began serving our congregation in July of 2012.
Contact Greta Martin-Worthy
Jeremy Messmer -- Director of Music
Jeremy Messmer holds a Bachelor of Arts in Music Education from Roberts Wesleyan College, and a Master of Arts in Vocal Performance from New York University. He has been leading music in c
ongregations on both coasts since he was 15 years old. He got an early start at his father’s church, Caledonia Assembly of God, in Caledonia, NY. There he served as music director for just over ten years. While in that community, Jeremy also led the choir for the Caledonia-Mumford Church Council Choir. Jeremy most recently served as music director at St. John’s Lutheran Church in Antioch, CA for the past three years. While in Antioch, Jeremy also music directed and guest directed for the Hapgood Theatre Company, and served as a founding faculty member at Delta Academy for the Performing Arts. Jeremy has also spent time teaching in high school vocal music programs and colleges, and guest conducting for various choirs in Western New York. He has performed in musicals, solo concerts, as well as with the Rochester Philharmonic Orchestra Chorale. He is featured on several recordings of new American composers with the Roberts Wesleyan College Chorale. A composer himself, Jeremy has produced and performed on a recording of his Oratorio: Adam & Eve.
Contact Jeremy Messmer
David Eichinger – Sexton
David has faithfully served our Congregation for many years as our Sexton. He cares for the church building and grounds, and the many groups that use them. Please contact David through the Church Office.