Leadership Ministries
Vestry
The Vestry at St. Andrew’s Church is a governing body responsible for overseeing the church’s operations, finances, and property. Comprised of elected lay members, the Vestry works alongside the rector to provide leadership and make decisions regarding the church’s budget, maintenance of buildings, and long-term planning. They ensure that the church's resources are managed responsibly, support the spiritual and mission-focused goals of the congregation, and address any administrative or legal matters.
Current Vestry Members
Convention Delegates
Convention Delegates are elected representatives from a parish who attend and participate in the annual diocesan convention. Their role is to represent the interests of their congregation in matters of church governance, including voting on resolutions, electing diocesan officers (such as bishops or members of various church committees), and approving budgets. Delegates also engage in discussions about important issues affecting the diocese and the wider Episcopal Church. By serving as a bridge between the parish and the diocese, convention delegates ensure that the voices of their local church are heard in broader decision-making processes. Janelle Dengate and Sarah Harrington are our church delegates.
Buildings and Grounds
A Church Buildings and Grounds Committee oversees the maintenance, repair, and overall care of the church's physical property, including buildings, landscaping, and outdoor spaces. They coordinate with contractors, volunteers, and staff to ensure facilities are safe, functional, and well maintained. The committee also plans for long-term improvements. The Buildings and Grounds team is led Chris Jordan and meets the first Sunday of each month at 9am.
Communications Team
The Communication Team manages the flow of information within the congregation and to the wider community, using various platforms like newsletters, social media, and the church website. They ensure that key messages, events, and announcements are effectively communicated, fostering engagement and connection among members. This ministry team is led by Lynn Schauer-Bewley.
Stewardship Team
The Stewardship Team develops annual giving campaigns that encourage generosity among the congregation focusing on how members can contribute to the church financially and with their time and talents. Pam Leibring leads the Stewardship Team.
The Vestry at St. Andrew’s Church is a governing body responsible for overseeing the church’s operations, finances, and property. Comprised of elected lay members, the Vestry works alongside the rector to provide leadership and make decisions regarding the church’s budget, maintenance of buildings, and long-term planning. They ensure that the church's resources are managed responsibly, support the spiritual and mission-focused goals of the congregation, and address any administrative or legal matters.
Current Vestry Members
- Wardens: Lynn Schauer-Bewley & Jerry Harrington
- Vestry Members: Steve Clark, Pam Leibring , Melissa Pestinger-Bleiler, Tom Villeneuve, Natalie Beilein & Sharon Rhodes
Convention Delegates
Convention Delegates are elected representatives from a parish who attend and participate in the annual diocesan convention. Their role is to represent the interests of their congregation in matters of church governance, including voting on resolutions, electing diocesan officers (such as bishops or members of various church committees), and approving budgets. Delegates also engage in discussions about important issues affecting the diocese and the wider Episcopal Church. By serving as a bridge between the parish and the diocese, convention delegates ensure that the voices of their local church are heard in broader decision-making processes. Janelle Dengate and Sarah Harrington are our church delegates.
Buildings and Grounds
A Church Buildings and Grounds Committee oversees the maintenance, repair, and overall care of the church's physical property, including buildings, landscaping, and outdoor spaces. They coordinate with contractors, volunteers, and staff to ensure facilities are safe, functional, and well maintained. The committee also plans for long-term improvements. The Buildings and Grounds team is led Chris Jordan and meets the first Sunday of each month at 9am.
Communications Team
The Communication Team manages the flow of information within the congregation and to the wider community, using various platforms like newsletters, social media, and the church website. They ensure that key messages, events, and announcements are effectively communicated, fostering engagement and connection among members. This ministry team is led by Lynn Schauer-Bewley.
Stewardship Team
The Stewardship Team develops annual giving campaigns that encourage generosity among the congregation focusing on how members can contribute to the church financially and with their time and talents. Pam Leibring leads the Stewardship Team.
Finance Ministries
Finance Committee & Treasurer
The church Finance Committee oversees the financial health of the church by developing annual budgets and guiding decisions related to long-term financial planning.
The Treasurer provides the Vestry with monthly reports that track church income and expenses. The Treasurer assists church leaders in making informed decisions about fundraising efforts, investments, and resource allocation. Doug Wintersteen is St. Andrew’s treasurer and leads the Finance Committee.
Collection Counters
Church collection counters are responsible for counting and recording the monetary contributions collected during worship services. They ensure that all donations are accurately documented and deposited after each service.
The church Finance Committee oversees the financial health of the church by developing annual budgets and guiding decisions related to long-term financial planning.
The Treasurer provides the Vestry with monthly reports that track church income and expenses. The Treasurer assists church leaders in making informed decisions about fundraising efforts, investments, and resource allocation. Doug Wintersteen is St. Andrew’s treasurer and leads the Finance Committee.
Collection Counters
Church collection counters are responsible for counting and recording the monetary contributions collected during worship services. They ensure that all donations are accurately documented and deposited after each service.
Liturgical Ministries
Altar Guild
The Altar Guild is responsible for preparing and maintaining the altar and its furnishings for worship services. This includes setting up communion elements, arranging liturgical items like candles and linens, and ensuring that everything is clean and in proper order. The guild also cares for vestments and sacred vessels, ensuring they are ready for use during church services and special ceremonies. Jackie Jordan is the ministry lead for the Altar Guild.
Eucharistic Ministers
Eucharistic Ministers are responsible for reading scripture passages and the Prayers of the People during the service. Ministers also assist in distributing the consecrated wine during the Eucharist.
Acolytes
Acolytes play a key role in supporting worship by carrying the processional cross, lighting and extinguishing altar candles, and assisting with the preparation for communion. Sue Villeneuve leads this ministry.
Choir
St. Andrew’s Choir sings during our Sunday Eucharist and for special services from the Sunday after Labor Day until the Sunday after Trinity Sunday (usually the middle of June). The choir rehearses on Tuesday evenings from 7-9 p.m. and is directed by Joe Breczka.
Usher
Our church ushers, led by Jerry Harrington, help create a welcoming environment by greeting congregants and distributing service materials like bulletins. They also facilitate the flow of the service by guiding people during offerings, communion, and other movements within the service.
Digital Ministry
St. Andrew’s Digital Ministry is responsible for producing and managing the Zoom broadcast during worship services, ensuring that members who are unable to attend in person can still participate in the communal experience. Doug Wintersteen leads the Digital Ministry Team.
Sunday School
At St. Andrew’s, our Sunday School Ministry provides a warm and nurturing environment where children and teens can grow in their faith. Younger children are introduced to Bible stories and learn prayers that connect them to God’s presence in their lives. Teens engage in open discussions about faith, navigating temptations, and forming Christian friendships, all in a non-threatening small group setting. Through crafts, projects, and thoughtful conversations, our teachers encourage creativity and spiritual growth. Above all, we teach every child that God loves them deeply and that Jesus is always with them. Liz Depew and Nancy Pestinger are the head teachers for the St. Andrew’s Sunday School.
Newfane Rehab Service
St. Andrew’s leads a prayer and hymn service at the Newfane Rehabilitation and Health Facility on the third Sunday of each month at 2:00 p.m. Steve Clark conducts the services, including prayers, hymns, readings, and communion to share God’s unconditional love and help residents find peace through faith.
Pastoral Care Ministry
The Pastoral Care Ministry at St. Andrews focuses on providing emotional, spiritual, and practical support to members of the congregation. It involves visiting the sick, homebound, or those in nursing homes, offering prayers, counseling, and guidance during difficult times such as grief, illness, or personal crises. Additionally, the pastoral care team sends cards to celebrate birthdays, anniversaries, and offer encouragement during challenging times, helping members feel remembered and valued. Jackie Jordan and Rev. Martha Farone co-lead this ministry.
The Altar Guild is responsible for preparing and maintaining the altar and its furnishings for worship services. This includes setting up communion elements, arranging liturgical items like candles and linens, and ensuring that everything is clean and in proper order. The guild also cares for vestments and sacred vessels, ensuring they are ready for use during church services and special ceremonies. Jackie Jordan is the ministry lead for the Altar Guild.
Eucharistic Ministers
Eucharistic Ministers are responsible for reading scripture passages and the Prayers of the People during the service. Ministers also assist in distributing the consecrated wine during the Eucharist.
Acolytes
Acolytes play a key role in supporting worship by carrying the processional cross, lighting and extinguishing altar candles, and assisting with the preparation for communion. Sue Villeneuve leads this ministry.
Choir
St. Andrew’s Choir sings during our Sunday Eucharist and for special services from the Sunday after Labor Day until the Sunday after Trinity Sunday (usually the middle of June). The choir rehearses on Tuesday evenings from 7-9 p.m. and is directed by Joe Breczka.
Usher
Our church ushers, led by Jerry Harrington, help create a welcoming environment by greeting congregants and distributing service materials like bulletins. They also facilitate the flow of the service by guiding people during offerings, communion, and other movements within the service.
Digital Ministry
St. Andrew’s Digital Ministry is responsible for producing and managing the Zoom broadcast during worship services, ensuring that members who are unable to attend in person can still participate in the communal experience. Doug Wintersteen leads the Digital Ministry Team.
Sunday School
At St. Andrew’s, our Sunday School Ministry provides a warm and nurturing environment where children and teens can grow in their faith. Younger children are introduced to Bible stories and learn prayers that connect them to God’s presence in their lives. Teens engage in open discussions about faith, navigating temptations, and forming Christian friendships, all in a non-threatening small group setting. Through crafts, projects, and thoughtful conversations, our teachers encourage creativity and spiritual growth. Above all, we teach every child that God loves them deeply and that Jesus is always with them. Liz Depew and Nancy Pestinger are the head teachers for the St. Andrew’s Sunday School.
Newfane Rehab Service
St. Andrew’s leads a prayer and hymn service at the Newfane Rehabilitation and Health Facility on the third Sunday of each month at 2:00 p.m. Steve Clark conducts the services, including prayers, hymns, readings, and communion to share God’s unconditional love and help residents find peace through faith.
Pastoral Care Ministry
The Pastoral Care Ministry at St. Andrews focuses on providing emotional, spiritual, and practical support to members of the congregation. It involves visiting the sick, homebound, or those in nursing homes, offering prayers, counseling, and guidance during difficult times such as grief, illness, or personal crises. Additionally, the pastoral care team sends cards to celebrate birthdays, anniversaries, and offer encouragement during challenging times, helping members feel remembered and valued. Jackie Jordan and Rev. Martha Farone co-lead this ministry.
Hospitality Teams
Coffee Hour Hosts
Coffee Hour Hosts at St. Andrews are responsible for setting up and serving refreshments, such as coffee, tea, and snacks, after worship services. They create a welcoming environment where members and visitors can gather for fellowship and conversation. The hosts prepare the space, ensure beverages and snacks are available, and clean up afterward. Coffee hours are hosted from September to June and Natalie Beilein coordinates this ministry. If you would like to support this team, please sign up on the coffee hour schedule posted in the undercroft or contact Natalie.
Ladies Guild
The Ladies’ Guild has played an active role in St. Andrew’s Church since its establishment in 1949. The purpose of the Guild is to support our Church and community through hospitality, outreach, and faith.
Every lady of St. Andrew’s is considered a member of the Ladies’ Guild. Each is empowered to use their unique gifts and talents to serve our church and community individually and through the Guild.
The Ladies Guild fundraises to support our church/community ministries. The annual Bazaar is our major source of funding.
Ladies Guild ministries include:
Kay Mayer and Sharon Rhodes are the co-leads for Ladies Guild.
Men’s Breakfast
This informal group meets for breakfast on Wednesdays, providing fellowship beyond Sunday mornings. They provide solutions for world peace, politics, religion and professional sports. The Men’s Group also contributes to the parish by completing small but significant projects around the church and grounds. Paul Mayer leads the Men’s Breakfast ministry and the group is always looking for new “members.”
Coffee Hour Hosts at St. Andrews are responsible for setting up and serving refreshments, such as coffee, tea, and snacks, after worship services. They create a welcoming environment where members and visitors can gather for fellowship and conversation. The hosts prepare the space, ensure beverages and snacks are available, and clean up afterward. Coffee hours are hosted from September to June and Natalie Beilein coordinates this ministry. If you would like to support this team, please sign up on the coffee hour schedule posted in the undercroft or contact Natalie.
Ladies Guild
The Ladies’ Guild has played an active role in St. Andrew’s Church since its establishment in 1949. The purpose of the Guild is to support our Church and community through hospitality, outreach, and faith.
Every lady of St. Andrew’s is considered a member of the Ladies’ Guild. Each is empowered to use their unique gifts and talents to serve our church and community individually and through the Guild.
The Ladies Guild fundraises to support our church/community ministries. The annual Bazaar is our major source of funding.
Ladies Guild ministries include:
- Overseeing the kitchen facilities
- Community support through outreach and/or monetary donations
- Pastoral care through coordination of funeral luncheons
Kay Mayer and Sharon Rhodes are the co-leads for Ladies Guild.
Men’s Breakfast
This informal group meets for breakfast on Wednesdays, providing fellowship beyond Sunday mornings. They provide solutions for world peace, politics, religion and professional sports. The Men’s Group also contributes to the parish by completing small but significant projects around the church and grounds. Paul Mayer leads the Men’s Breakfast ministry and the group is always looking for new “members.”
Outreach Ministries
Community Store
Located on Main Street in the Village of Newfane, the St. Andrew’s Community store has served the Newfane and surrounding areas for over 50 years. Parish members staff this community thrift shop. Some proceeds from the store are given to the church, which in turn donates a portion to other local charities. Cindy and Jerry Harrington run the store and are always looking for new volunteers to support this important ministry.
Community Store Hours
Adopted Families
The Adopt-a-Family Ministry is a charitable program that supports families in need. Through this ministry, the church congregation "adopt" families and provide essential items such as food, clothing, and gifts to help make their situation more manageable. The goal is to show compassion and support by offering practical assistance and sharing God’s love with those community members who are struggling. Jamie Gaillie leads this ministry.
Pet Food Pantry
Led by Lynn Schauer-Bewley, the St. Andrew’s Pet Food Pantry is a community service initiative that provides pet food and supplies to families in need, ensuring that pets are well cared for even during difficult financial times. The Pet Food Pantry distributes food the 4th Saturday at the Newfane Town Hall.
Intergenerational
St. Andrew’s Church’s Intergenerational Group is a ministry that brings together people of all ages—children, teens, adults, and seniors—for fellowship, learning, and service. This group creates opportunities for different generations to connect, share experiences, and grow in faith together through activities such a social events and outreach projects. The focus is on building relationships across age groups, fostering a sense of community, and enriching the spiritual lives of all participants by learning from one another. Pam Leibring leads this ministry.
Fish Fry
It is no secret that the best fish fry in town during Lent is at St. Andrew’s. This successful fundraiser has offered us the opportunity to host a major community event, while strengthening the fellowship between parish members and community members as we all roll up our sleeves and work for the Lord. Jamie Gaillie coordinates our fish fry efforts.
Bazaar
St. Andrew’s Church’s Bazaar is an annual event that brings the church and community together to raise funds for various church programs and outreach efforts. The bazaar typically features handmade crafts, baked goods, holiday items, basket auction, and chicken and biscuit lunch, creating a festive atmosphere where people can shop, enjoy fellowship, and support the church’s mission. Proceeds from the event are often used to support charitable initiatives, community projects, and the ongoing ministries of the church. This ministry not only provides financial support but also strengthens community bonds and involvement. Jackie Jordan leads the Bazaar coordinating team.
Located on Main Street in the Village of Newfane, the St. Andrew’s Community store has served the Newfane and surrounding areas for over 50 years. Parish members staff this community thrift shop. Some proceeds from the store are given to the church, which in turn donates a portion to other local charities. Cindy and Jerry Harrington run the store and are always looking for new volunteers to support this important ministry.
Community Store Hours
- Wednesday 11am - 4pm
- Thursday 10am – 4pm
- Friday 12pm – 3pm
- Saturday 10am – 2pm
Adopted Families
The Adopt-a-Family Ministry is a charitable program that supports families in need. Through this ministry, the church congregation "adopt" families and provide essential items such as food, clothing, and gifts to help make their situation more manageable. The goal is to show compassion and support by offering practical assistance and sharing God’s love with those community members who are struggling. Jamie Gaillie leads this ministry.
Pet Food Pantry
Led by Lynn Schauer-Bewley, the St. Andrew’s Pet Food Pantry is a community service initiative that provides pet food and supplies to families in need, ensuring that pets are well cared for even during difficult financial times. The Pet Food Pantry distributes food the 4th Saturday at the Newfane Town Hall.
Intergenerational
St. Andrew’s Church’s Intergenerational Group is a ministry that brings together people of all ages—children, teens, adults, and seniors—for fellowship, learning, and service. This group creates opportunities for different generations to connect, share experiences, and grow in faith together through activities such a social events and outreach projects. The focus is on building relationships across age groups, fostering a sense of community, and enriching the spiritual lives of all participants by learning from one another. Pam Leibring leads this ministry.
Fish Fry
It is no secret that the best fish fry in town during Lent is at St. Andrew’s. This successful fundraiser has offered us the opportunity to host a major community event, while strengthening the fellowship between parish members and community members as we all roll up our sleeves and work for the Lord. Jamie Gaillie coordinates our fish fry efforts.
Bazaar
St. Andrew’s Church’s Bazaar is an annual event that brings the church and community together to raise funds for various church programs and outreach efforts. The bazaar typically features handmade crafts, baked goods, holiday items, basket auction, and chicken and biscuit lunch, creating a festive atmosphere where people can shop, enjoy fellowship, and support the church’s mission. Proceeds from the event are often used to support charitable initiatives, community projects, and the ongoing ministries of the church. This ministry not only provides financial support but also strengthens community bonds and involvement. Jackie Jordan leads the Bazaar coordinating team.
~ St. Andrew's seeks to share the unconditional love of God ~
Virtual & In-Person Sunday Service: 10:45 am
Sunday School: 10:30 am
St. Andrew's Episcopal Church, Wilson-Burt & West Creek Roads, Burt, New York 14028
Our Vision: "We seek to share God's Love with a faith and outreach presence that is welcoming to all."
Virtual & In-Person Sunday Service: 10:45 am
Sunday School: 10:30 am
St. Andrew's Episcopal Church, Wilson-Burt & West Creek Roads, Burt, New York 14028
Our Vision: "We seek to share God's Love with a faith and outreach presence that is welcoming to all."
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updated 1.12.25
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