Leadership

After growing up in the Midwest, Abner is happy to call Seattle home with his wife Debbie. He studied theology at Union College and received further pastoral education at Andrews University. Coming from a Mexican-Salvadoran home, Abner's dream for the church is that it becomes a multiethnic, intergenerational community of worshippers who practice Jesus' teachings for the renewal and flourishing of Seattle. On his days off, he enjoys playing and watching sports, listening to podcasts, and trying new things. | Church Office Hours: 9:30-1:30 Mon, Tues, Thurs. | 952-688-1760

Ryan Gratias is Seattle native, with his stomping grounds specifically in Auburn. He is a graduate of Walla Walla University, and now lives in Issaquah. Ryan used to be a mechanical engineer, but is now pursing his MBA at the University of Washington and will work in management consulting after he graduates. The spirit of adventure thrives in Ryan, and fittingly as a Seattle native, it is in the outdoors where he finds the most joy! He enjoys various outdoor recreational sports including skiing, mountaineering, biking, and dirt biking. When indoors, Ryan loves spirited rounds of the game Catch Phrase, so claim him for your team should the opportunity arise.

Carmen has spent her entire life in the Pacific NorthWest, growing up in the South Seattle area with her family. She has worked in Public Defense for over seven years, specializing in management and administration. Carmen is practiced in the discipline of intercessory prayer, and has many stories of the providence of God in her life, and the lives of others who she has prayed for. Carmen is the treasurer at Volunteer Park Church, she looks forward to the opportunity to serve in such a vital role. She loves hiking and playing volleyball. She also enjoys preaching and writing sermons.

Jeanette grew up South Dakota, Texas and Seattle. Her family moved to Seattle in the summer of 1966, and she attended Garfield High School for her senior year. She has been in Seattle ever since. In her time in Seattle Jeanette has worked as records manager for a Seattle law firm, and currently in Elder Care-giver. During her 50 years at Volunteer Park Church, she has served in almost every available position. From sabbath school teacher, elder, and currently as church Clerk. Jeanette's passions are reading and knitting, and spending time with her family: three adult grandchildren in Idaho, and three young grandchildren in California.

Jason was born and raised in Albequerque, NM. He is a graduate of Walla Walla University and moved to Seattle to join Microsoft as a mechanical engineer. Jason enjoys outdoor recreation, getting their exercise, and traveling. Jason and his wife Kari have been checking National Parks off of their travel list, and hope to add Europe soon too. Jason is excited to serve at Volunteer Park as Head Deacon. Jason is also an avid photographer, and recently added a Digi Phantom to his gear.

Ed was born & raised in California. He moved to Seattle in 2009 and has since made it his home. Ed is a consultant, and a mechanical engineer by training. As the building manager for the past few years Ed has been a boon for the Volunteer Park Church. He always goes beyond the call of duty in the upkeep and preservation and improvement of the building. In his spare time, Ed loves to tinker in his workshop, creating works in wood & steel fabrication.

Jennifer was born in Houston but spent most of her life in sunny Los Angeles. After getting married in 2015, she relocated with her husband to Seattle. She works closely with veterans as a geriatric ambulatory care pharmacist at the VA. Her passion for service led her to VPC and she now leads the community services department which gives members the opportunity to connect with their community through various service projects. Outside of work, Jennifer is an avid aerialist, hiker, traveler and ginger beer brewer.