Reverend Marissa van der Valk
Our senior pastor is the Rev. Marissa van der Valk. Pastor Marissa was born and raised in California moving to New Jersey 7 years ago. Previous to moving to New Jersey, Pastor Marissa worked for 15 years as a molecular biologist. She holds degrees in Biological Sciences, Computer Information System, and has a Master of Divinity from Drew Theological School. She is passionate about mission and helping congregations connect with their communities. She is excited to be the pastor of Washington UMC!
Reverend Marilyn Balzer
Our pastor emeritus is the Rev. Marilyn Balzer. Serving the Methodist church for over 30 years, Marilyn has numerous teaching certifications. Born and raised in Salem, Marilyn has 3 grown children and 7 grandchildren!
Al Cousins
Our music director, Al Cousins, began taking piano lessons as a young child in the U.K. Along with directing our choir and children’s choir, he also chairs our Vital Ministries team. He lives in Washington with his wife Amy, and their 4 children and in his spare time rides a motorcycle and has a pilot’s license!
Amy Cousins
Our Children’s Ministries coordinator is Amy Cousins. From Hamilton Square, NJ, Amy was a stay at home mom to 4 kids for 14 years and is now a kindergarten teacher.
Dave Dux
Dave Dux is our Sexton and does a great job taking care of our beautiful century old building and grounds.
Joshua MannixJoshua serves as our director of youth ministry here at the Greenstone United Methodist Church in Washington. Joshua has worked in youth ministry since 2006 and is very excited about being a part of the family here. Joshua is joined at the church by his three delightful little girls– Caylee, Lorilai, and Paisley. Joshua and his girls love spending time outside running around the yard with their dogs, or snuggling on the couch watching a movie with a giant cup of coffee in hand. Joshua has a real passion for bringing the message of Jesus’ love and truth to teens. He found that same love himself in a youth group in Mendham, NJ, and hasn’t left youth ministry since. There is such a small window of opportunity for teens to find their niche and he is very excited to come alongside them to help them discover God’s longing embrace.
Greenstone United Methodist Church
116 East Washington Ave
Washington, New Jersey 07882
(908)689-0105