Staff
Dr. Robert Chance
Dr. Chance has been our Senior Minister since 1973. His undergraduate degree is from the University of Maryland in Business and Public Administration. He earned a Doctorate of Ministry in 1972 from Lexington Theological Seminary in Lexington, Kentucky. Since earning his doctorate Dr. Chance has undertaken many continuing education programs in a variety of fields. Dr. Chance has a great fondness and skill for Organizational Development and Group Dynamics. Dr. Chance is a certified trainer in LIFO, and leads workshops and programs for other congregations and organizations. He has completed six units of Clinical Pastoral Education and is a trained counselor. He has served churches in Kentucky, Georgia and Maryland. Dr. Chance served as a Chaplain (COL) in the Army National Guard for over 30 years before retiring from the NG in May of 2007. Dr. and Mrs. Chance are the proud parents of three children and four grandchildren, all living in the area and active in the congregation. He enjoys sports, outdoor activities, hiking, camping and is an avid motorcyclist.
Laura Arico
Laura Arico is our part time Assistant Minister assisting with Worship, Membership and Evangelism, Outreach and many other areas of ministry within the church. Laura is a third year student at Wesley Seminary and is a bright, energetic person with great theological and spiritual depth. She and her husband, Nathan are a real blessing to the members and friend of the congregation. Laura hails from Indiana and calls the Washington D.C. her home now.
Mrs. Debbie Smith
Mrs. Smith has been our Senior Administrative Secretary since 1980. She lives in the Aspen Hill area and brings a great spirit and love for the church to her daily ministry. She enjoys traveling to Maine to visit with her husband’s family and is a warm and gracious person.
Mr. Jon Gilbertson
Mr. Gilbertson is our Choir Director and Organist. He lives in the Wheaton area and brings tremendous musical talents to the church. Mr. Gilbertson is an accomplished organist/pianist and has a rich tenor voice. He provides private music lessons as well as the ministry he shares with our congregation.
Mrs. Shirley Hopkins
Mrs. Hopkins lives in nearby Washington, D.C. and provides wonderful janitorial services for us. She and her lovely family have served with the church for many years.
