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.
Kori Phillips--Student Intern
We are very pleased to welcome Kori Phillips back to WAPC for the spring term of 2012 to
work in areas of specialized ministry with our congregation. Kori served as our field education intern in 2010-2011 and is a Certified Ready to Recieve a Call as Minister of Word and Sacament (Teaching Elder) in the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.). Kori is a Senior at Princeton Theological Seminary. Kori's previous service to the church is as a Young Adult Volunteer and also as a Human Rights Accompanier with the Iglesia Presbiteriana de Colombia with the Presbyterian Peace Fellowship.
Kathleen Golmont – Administrative Assistant
Kathleen has worked at Watchung Avenue since 2009. For most visitors during the week she is the first face they see or first voice they hear. Kathleen runs the office at the church — keeping track of our many activities, preparing our weekly worship service, and helping keep the staff of the church organized.
Contact Kathleen Golmont
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.