Our Team

Reverend Kim Magwire

 Revevend d Kim Magwire M. Div. graduated from Vanderbilt Divinity school in 1997 and was subsequently ordained in the UCC Vermont Conference.  She is a supporter of the Progressive Christianity movement. She loves taking walks in nature with her golden retriever, swimming, reading novels and spirituality books, & time spent with her two boys, Joey and Clif and her husband Dr. Aaron Newcomb.

 

Scott Johnson, Music Director

 Scott received his B.A. in Vocal Music Education from Jacksonville State University in Alabama.  Most  

recently he was an elementary school music teacher and interim Director of Music in Georgia.

   Scott is currently pursuing a Master of Music degree in Choral Conducting, 

 

Jason Eisele, M. Div. 

Jason is a recent Eden UCC Seminary graduate who regularly fills the pulpit when Pastor Kim is unavailable. He also provides pastoral care to church members.  He has done Chaplancy at the V.A. and has preached at other Southern Illinois churches. Jason believes that a healthy  relationship with God should always inspire us to work towards making this world a better place for those around us.

 

 

Karen Clayton, Musician

  Karen has a B.M. and M.M. in vocal performance from SIU and SIUE, respectively.

 She has served extensively as an accompanist, as well as vocal instructor in her private voice studio.  

Jan & Dale Ritzel 

Jan and Dale have been the Building and Grounds Coordinators for many years.  Both have been leaders in Whole Earth practices in maintaining our church building and grounds.  Dale coordinates our solar plan, as well as gives tours and lectures regarding solar power.  Jan and Dale Ritzel are long time members of COGS and have volunteered many hours over the years 

 

 

Dr. Aaron Newcomer, Volunteer

Aaron is currently serving our youth in Christian Education and activities.  He is often found near the soccor nets cheering our youth on, or assisting our youth to participate in worship services, by assisting them to light the altar candles or ring the bell for services.