Welcome! My name is Leigh Weber, and I have been the pastor at Vashon Presbyterian Church since May 1, 2017. A mom of two amazing young adults, I have a Master of Divinity and a Post-Master’s Certificate in Spiritual Direction from Seattle University. If I could share just one thing about the nature of our community at VPC, it would be that we strive to honor the sacred worth of all people and that we are a work in progress.
In the first chapter of the first book of the Bible, God says, “Let us create humankind in our own Image.” That means YOU are created in the Image of God, as is every human being. YOU are a representation of God that can be found in no other person. Every time we gather with others, we learn more about who God is. It makes you special; it gives you sacred worth.
At VPC, we endeavor to recognize that sacred worth as well as to learn more about God from and in the community around us. In order to do that, we also recognize that our physical and spiritual/emotional doors must remain open to God and all those that God has created.
You are welcome here, just as you are. And if you have any questions at any time, you can email, call, or text me to check in.
Grace and Peace,
Leigh
Clerk of Session,
Jacq Skeffington
Jacq Skeffington is a former ship captain who has sailed around the world many times. He brings wisdom and leadership to his role as Clerk of Session. Jacq also serves on the Commission on Ministry in the Seattle Presbytery. You’ll often find Jacq bringing his skills to the maintenance of the building as well.
The Clerk of Session works closely with the Pastor to support and come alongside the Session of the church. Serving as a point of contact, the Clerk also has an administrative responsibility to develop Session agendas and maintain a record of minutes for the Session and all meetings of the congregation.
Outreach,
Lindsay Hofmann
Lindsay Hofmann is a retired chemist with a diverse history. Having lived in many different parts of the world, she brings a natural curiosity to her work as an elder. Lindsay is passionate about welcoming all aspects of the community around us and thoroughly enjoys her role as our Outreach Elder.
The Outreach Elder works with a committee to provide events for the larger community. From free pie on Pi Day to participating in the Strawberry Festival, outreach is at the heart of the church.
Finance, Building & Grounds,
James Lilje
Jim Lilje is a commercial pilot who is retired from a major carrier. He currently teaches pilots for a business in Seattle and is an aviation consultant. Jim brings a tremendous amount of business skills to his role as our Finance Elder.
The Finance Elder is responsible for maintaining the church budget and monthly finances. Together with the Clerk of Session, he/she works to discern the best stewardship for both building and financial resources.
View VPC’s 2023 Annual Report.
Hospitality, Personnel,
Nancy Tucker
Nancy Tucker is retired from a major insurance company and brings many skills to her role both as chair of the personnel committee and hospitality committee. She has a warm presence in both roles and creates the space for the congregation to be in community with one another.
The Hospitality Elder’s role is to be the lead in all church social functions. He/she maintains the social calendar of the church as well as provides for weekly coffee time after worship. The Personnel Elder works with the Pastor to develop goals as well as evaluate job performance. As the chair of the Personnel Committee, this elder works to establish the compensation package for the Pastor. This elder also maintains the Safe Conduct policy of the church, performing background checks on all volunteers in order to create a safe space for all people.
Faith Formation,
Al Ross-Weston
Al Ross-Weston is a retired United Methodist pastor and mental health counselor. He is a gifted listener and brings a wealth of experience to his work. He has a rich theological and social knowledge base with a natural curiosity
The Faith Formation Elder provides for the educational aspect of church life. This elder leads the classes and studies that change through the church year as well as the church’s monthly book club.
Purposeful Service,
Bob Spangler
Bob Spangler is a retired lawyer who found his way to Vashon after years on the East Coast. His passion for local missions is a gift to the congregation
The Purposeful Service Elder works with his/her committee to serve local and international missions. Mission partners, such as Mary’s Place in Seattle, provide a tangible way for the congregation to engage in caring for others.
Worship, Youth,
Elizabeth Loveness
Liz Loveness is a retired teacher, aviation lover, and one who knows Vashon well. She serves on a variety of island committees and brings her gifts to VPC in many ways.
The Worship Elder works closely with the Pastor to provide for congregational worship. In addition to Sunday mornings, this elder helps to facilitate opportunities for worship in a variety of ways for each liturgical season. The Youth Elder provides ways for the youth to gather, participate in programming, and recognize and honor their place in the larger church.
The Deacons at Vashon Presbyterian Church are Claudia Ross-Weston (Moderator), Chris Coldeen, Larry Commeree, Susan Commeree, Caran-Marie Weston Dunbar, and Sheryl Lehman.
In the Presbyterian tradition, Deacons are the loving arms. They are called to compassion and caring. Deacons are elected by the congregation and work closely with the Pastor to be the first responders to those in need. They provide meals and support for the sick, the grieving, and those who need companionship.
