Pastors & Elders
Pastors
Philip Griffin Senior Pastor
If you could drive any car for a day, what would it be? A dune buggy.
What’s your favorite smell? Chicken enchiladas baking in the oven.
What’s the most powerful book you’ve ever read? The Bible, of course. Outside of the Bible, The Ragamuffin Gospel.
If you could have dinner anywhere tonight, where would it be? What would you eat and who would you share it with? My wife and children at “El Porton”, a restaurant in Mexico City where my parents used to take us as kids.
What was the most interesting job you had before becoming a pastor? A ‘hod-carrier’ for a masonry company in Phoenix.
What made you decide to go into full-time ministry? It was a God thing.
What’s the most unique situation you’ve ever been in? I was held up at gun point by a cab driver in Mexico, with my wife standing behind me.
Philip Griffin is Elmbrook’s Senior Pastor, and was formerly the Senior Pastor of First Wesleyan Church in Battle Creek, Michigan. An evangelist at the core and someone who has come through his own theological questioning, he has a heart for bringing the Gospel to the hurting and broken. He was raised as a missionary son, in the heart of Mexico City. Fluent in Spanish and formerly the pastor of a racially diverse congregation in Texas, he misses a culture that is more diverse and metropolitan. He has a passion for Scripture and believes mission is a lifestyle. Philip enjoys a good action movie, long bike rides, mountain biking, hiking (as long as there are no bears) and spending time with his family. He and his wife Deanna have three children; Jessica, Lexi and Colin; and two grandchildren.
Scott Arbeiter Lead Pastor
If you could drive any car for a day, what would it be? A BMW M6 convertible
What’s your favorite song for singing in the car? Born to Be Wild. (A long story….but it’s from my hot rod days)
What’s your favorite Bible passage, and why? Of many, today my favorite is John 8:58. I love how it shouts out that Jesus is, in fact, God.
What’s your favorite smell? Fresh mown hay.
If you could have dinner anywhere tonight, where would it be? What would you eat and who would you share it with? I would be at home with Jewel and my daughters, on the patio on a warm summer night. I’ve eaten in some of the best restaurants in the world, but none has ever topped my patio, because of the company.
What would you say is your greatest accomplishment? 28 years and Jewel still loves me!
What’s the most unique situation you’ve ever been in? Pushing a stuck van in Africa while an angry mother elephant prepared to charge.
In addition to his role at Elmbrook, Scott serves as Chairman of the Board for World Relief. He and his wife, Jewel, have three daughters: Kelsey, Jacquelyn, and Karis.
Steve Sonderman Associate Pastor, Adult Discipleship
What’s the coolest part of your job at Elmbrook? The coolest part is to see men come back home to God. To see their lives transformed by Him and see the far-reaching effects it has on their home, work and community.
If you could drive any car for a day, what would it be? Chevy Tahoe.
What’s your favorite Bible passage, and why? Philippians 1:21. I love this verse because Paul encapsulates in one verse what the Christian life is all about. No matter I am doing, Christ is my life!
What’s your favorite smell? Brats on the grill
What’s the most powerful book you’ve ever read? The Master Plan of Evangelism by Robert Coleman
If you had to boil your personality down to a Tweet, how would you describe yourself? I am a driven, goal oriented, sensitive, passionate servant with vision.
If you could have dinner anywhere tonight, where would it be? What would you eat and who would you share it with? The patio at Mr. B’s. Steak and baked potato, with my best friend and wife Colleen
What would you say is your greatest accomplishment? Writing 2 books even though I flunked freshman English at UW-La Crosse.
What was the most interesting job you had before becoming a pastor? Being in charge of the Milwaukee Brewers mail order department the year they went to the world series, 1982.
What made you decide to go into full-time ministry? After the fruitfulness and fulfillment that came from leading a bible study at Brookfield Central High School, the encouragement of Stuart Briscoe and others, and the confirmation through a one-year internship with the college age ministry at Elmbrook, I decided God was calling me into ministry.
What’s the most unique situation you’ve ever been in? Being interrogated for 45 minutes at the airport in the Middle East and then leading a pastor’s conference in the same city for over 100 underground pastors from all over the Middle East.
Steve and his wife, Colleen, have four children: Kristin, Angela, Tim, and Jon. He enjoys biking with Colleen, sports, and attending and coaching his children’s activities.
Laurie McIntyre Associate Pastor, Adult Discipleship
What’s the coolest part of your job at Elmbrook? The coolest part of my job is having a front row seat to spiritual “ah-ha” moments.
If you could drive any car for a day, what would it be? I would drive a vintage Mustang.
What is your favorite passage of Scripture? Romans 8:28-39
Do you have a favorite smell? Fresh baked chocolate chip cookies made with real vanilla
What’s the most powerful book you’ve ever read? Marley & Me by John Grogan ; The Shack by William Paul Young
If you could have dinner anywhere tonight, where would it be? What would you eat and who would you share it with? Il Mito, an Italian trattoria in Tosa. I would order a hearty pasta dish and enjoy it surrounded by a table full of close friends and family.
What’s the most unique situation you’ve been in? Crossing the South China Sea in an outrigger canoe.
Laurie and her husband, Bob, reside in Brookfield with their two daughters, Anna and Makayla, and their two active puppies, Sable and Tanner.
Brandon Brown Associate Pastor, Student Ministry
What’s the coolest part of your job at Elmbrook? Seeing God transform the lives of students and families.
If you could drive any car for a day, what would it be? 1967 Shelby Cobra – it’s the greatest car ever made.
What’s your favorite song for singing in the car? Poison & Wine by the Civil Wars.
What’s your favorite Bible passage, and why? I have always liked John 1:14 – Jesus became flesh and dwelt among us. It is so amazing that God drew this close and entered into the struggle, sweat, pain and joy of humanity.
What’s your favorite smell? Coffee
What’s the most powerful book you’ve ever read? The Great Divorce by C. S. Lewis.
If you had to boil your personality down to a Tweet, how would you describe yourself? Cross McGyver with Adam Sandler and a bull dog – throw in dangerous levels of curiosity, passion and creativity – now you’re getting close.
If you could have dinner anywhere tonight, where would it be? What would you eat and who would you share it with? I would have a picnic with my wife Emily on the Mayan Pyramids.
What was the most interesting job you had before becoming a pastor? I painted UPS trucks.
What made you decide to go into full-time ministry? I was sitting in church taking notes, looked down and realized that I had written like 10 different sermon ideas that could have been preached from the same passage. I was like, “Wow, I could be a pastor!” Unfortunately, I said it loud enough for all 500 people at church that morning to hear.
What’s the most unique situation you’ve ever been in? During my senior year in high school, I took my friend Chris home from a wrestling meet. When I pulled into his driveway, 15 squad cards pulled onto the street after us and blockaded us in his driveway – guns drawn, police dogs barking, neighbor’s gawking – It was right out of a movie. Apparently a burglary had occurred and they were looking for a ‘male with a hat’. It took us about 30 minutes, two pat downs, a car search, and lots of talking to convince them that, although we were indeed males wearing hats, that we had not stolen anything that night. Oh, the joys of living in small towns.
Brandon lives in Waukesha with his wife Emily and children Tegan, Cohen & Levi. Brandon’s main hobbies are movies, music, football, Apple computers, books, remodeling, photography, graphic design, and hiking in the mountains.
Brodie Swanson Associate Pastor, Children & Family Ministry
What’s the coolest part of your job at Elmbrook? I get to do what I love to do: help kids get to see God differently and help parents grab onto their God-given role.
If you could drive any car for a day, what would it be? Lamborghini or Dodge Viper.
What’s your favorite song for singing in the car? Big God Story (blaring on full volume to sing with Annika) or Home by Philip Phillips.
What’s your favorite Bible passage, and why? I Kings 19-20 – Elijah was an ordinary guy and God did extraordinary things – and He can do great things through someone like me.
What’s your favorite smell? French fries.
Favorite Christmas Movie? Elf. Definitely.
What’s the most powerful book you’ve ever read? Besides the Bible? Chasing Daylight, Power of a Whisper, and Spiritual Parenting.
If you had to boil your personality down to a Tweet, how would you describe yourself? “Exhuberant” per the Elmbrook Church Children & Family Ministry staff
If you could have dinner anywhere tonight, where would it be? What would you eat and who would you share it with? Texas Roadhouse (sirloin tips meal and a cherry limeade) with my wife Heather
What would you say is your greatest accomplishment? Making it through my childhood and wooing my wife who is way out of my league.
What was the most interesting job you had before becoming a pastor? I was a log home builder.
What made you decide to go into full-time ministry? God hit me over the head… it was obvious.
Brodie and his wife, Heather, moved from Rockford, Illinois, where they had been living and ministering since 1999. During their time here, they have welcomed two children into the world, Annika and Graeme. They are excited about the family God has given them!
Tom Keppeler Associate Pastor, Global Mission & Serve
What’s the coolest part of your job at Elmbrook? Being able to see the work of Christ’s Church in different places in the world and to meet and make friends with church leaders from cultures and places from Congo to Berlin and learn from them!
If you could drive any car for a day, what would it be? A stick-shift convertible Mini-Cooper—with the top down!!
What’s your favorite song for singing in the car? Bohemian Rhapsody by Queen.
What’s your favorite Bible passage, and why? Hebrews 12:1-2 because it is a reminder that as followers of Christ, we must keep our eyes on Him as we run the race He has for us.. .and that we are not alone—we stand in a long line of saints from ages past.
What’s your favorite smell? Spaghetti sauce simmering on the stove.
What’s the most powerful book you’ve ever read? Henri Nouwen’s little book, In the Name of Jesus. It is a powerful message about how counter-cultural Christian leadership should be.
If you had to boil your personality down to a Tweet, how would you describe yourself? Outgoing. Adventurous. Lover of Jesus. Family guy. Speaks other languages even when sounding like idiot. Avid skier. Voracious reader. Likes challenges.
If you could have dinner anywhere tonight, where would it be? What would you eat and who would you share it with? I would have dinner on an outdoor terrace at a small locale called the Alpengasthof Kogler in Gahberg, Austria, that has a view of the Austrian Alps in the Salzburger Lake District. I would have this meal with my wife, Mary. I would order a Zwiebelrostbraten, with broasted potatoes on the side and a salad comprised of fresh tomatoes, cucumbers and onions with oil and vinegar dressing. Fresh baked bread with homemade butter. A cold glass of German dark beer (can I say that?) and for dessert, a piece of chocolate cheese cake and a good Italian cappuccino to top it off.
What would you say is your greatest accomplishment? Having the wisdom to wait for God to bring my amazing wife, Mary, into my life and having the guts to ask her out and finally marry her!
What was the most interesting job you had before becoming a pastor? Painting beach houses in Ocean City, NJ.
What made you decide to go into full-time ministry? A desire to explore global missions in my mid-20’s, even thought I knew very little about it. I had some inklings of what I thought might have been a calling from God into cross-cultural ministry. I didn’t know what that might all mean so I took the next step and went to grad school at Wheaton to try and get smarter and wiser about it. I never regretted the decision. One thing led to another as God unfolded opportunities for me.
What’s the most unique situation you’ve ever been in? Being followed onto the Baltic Orient Express train at by the Romanian Secret police during the Romanian revolution on December 18, 1989. My wife and I were trying to leave the country after meeting secretly with a group of Romanian church leaders. We didn’t know what would happen to us or if we’d get out of the country. We got out.
Tom and Mary have three children, Kristina, James, and P.J., all of whom were born in Vienna, Austria. Tom is an avid skier and also enjoys running, traveling, reading, foreign languages, riding his motorcycle, and listening to Mary play the concert harp!
Mike Murphy Associate Pastor, Local Mission & Serve
What’s the coolest part of your job at Elmbrook? The variety of people I get to meet and work with, and the opportunities to not just dream and talk about ministry but to be able to go for it.
If you could drive any car for a day, what would it be? A beat-up red pick-up truck with rusted out floor boards and a manual transmission.
What’s your favorite song for singing in the car? The Road Goes on Forever and The Party Never Ends by Robert Earl Keene.
What’s your favorite Bible passage, and why? Not a passage, but the book of Nehemiah, because of his example of dependence upon God, leadership, courage, and determination in the midst of opposition and results.
If you had to boil your personality down to a Tweet, how would you describe yourself? Outgoing. Unconventional. Innovative. Adaptable. Fun. A bit of a redneck. Persistent and determined. Loyal. Able to recognize potential in people. Team builder.
If you could have dinner anywhere tonight, where would it be? What would you eat and who would you share it with? BBQ brisket and ribs on butcher paper at Tom’s Bar BQ in College Station, TX. Choice for dinner company is my wife and close friends (they know who they are). No famous or dead people allowed.
What would you say is your greatest accomplishment? Marrying my wife (27 years) and raising four sons.
What was the most interesting job you had before becoming a pastor? Roughneck in the oil fields of Texas.
What made you decide to go into full-time ministry? It was a process. After an 18 year business career, this was not something I ever expected. I was reluctant. However, God made it abundantly clear to me and my wife that this was what was next for us. Scary thought, stupid though to walk opposite to where God was leading.
Mike and his wife Elizabeth have been married 26 years. They are the parents of four teenage sons who keep their lives both loud and lively! In his downtime, Mike enjoys movies (preferably the “high action” type), coaching football, biking, working in the yard and being outdoors.
Roselyn Staples Associate Pastor, Senior Adults & Congregational Care
What’s the coolest part of your job at Elmbrook? Catching glimpses of God at work.
If you could drive any car for a day, what would it be? A John Deere tractor.
What’s your favorite Bible passage, and why? Isaiah 50:4. It reminds me who God is, assures me of His equipping, reminds me that our world is broken and assures me that he will wake me each morning to go over our day together.
What’s your favorite smell? Walking through a pine forest with a loaf of fresh bread.
Favorite sound? A purring cat.
What’s the most powerful book you’ve ever read? In the Name of Jesus by Henri Nouwen
If you had to boil your personality down to a Tweet, how would you describe yourself? I am loved by God: in ministry by the grace of God, learning to pray, longing for community. I love nature, animals, walking, Norway, butter, children and old people. I hate shopping.
If you could have dinner anywhere tonight, where would it be? What would you eat and who would you share it with? A picnic on a Norwegian mountainside near a waterfall eating goat cheese, thick bread, thicker butter!! Drinking wine (for medicinal purposes). I would invite Amy Carmichael to be my guest.
What would you say is your greatest accomplishment? Recognizing that I don’t know.
What was the most interesting job you had before becoming a pastor? Community health nursing in Milwaukee.
What made you decide to go into full-time ministry? Stuart Briscoe taught me my mission field is between my two feet and availability is more important than ability.
What’s the most unique situation you’ve ever been in? Years ago the elders and pastors played a competition basketball game. I was the only woman. I was 1/3 the size as anyone else and had 1/100 of the passion. Having never shot a basketball before, I aimed at the basket and made the first score. I then removed myself from the game as the players seemed dangerous to me. I wish we could find the video.
Roselyn’s status as a single woman was changed in 1991 when she and co-worker Virgil Staples were married. In 1997, Roselyn was asked to develop a new ministry as Associate Pastor for Senior Adults. A growing passion for prayer is shaping this ministry. Roselyn loves “seeing God through His world of nature”. She also exhibits a unique compassion for people with mental illness. Check out her blog , Silverstrands.org.
Andy Linquist Associate Pastor, Student Creative Arts
What’s the coolest part of your job at Elmbrook? My favorite part of working at Elmbrook is being able to be present when students or adults take next steps spiritually. To be used by God to impact that direction of someone’s life is such a privilege.
If you could drive any car for a day, what would it be? 1965 Corvette Convertible
What’s your favorite song for singing in the car? I’ll sing about any modern worship song. I really love Hillsong United.
What’s your favorite Bible passage, and why? Colossians 3:23-24 have been verses that have stuck with me all my life. They’ve motivated me to work hard in whatever circumstance I find myself in.
What’s your favorite smell? The late afternoon breeze when I’m sitting on the pier at our family’s cabin in northern Wisconsin.
What’s the most powerful book you’ve ever read? I wouldn’t say I have a favorite book but one of the books that’s impacted my daily life the most is Decision Making and the Will of God by Garry Friesen.
If you had to boil your personality down to a Tweet, how would you describe yourself? I’m detail oriented, driven, and very competitive, but there’s nothing I love more than relaxing with my family and playing music.
If you could have dinner anywhere tonight, where would it be? What would you eat and who would you share it with? I’d be at Lake Park Bistro with my wife Lisa eating a thick bone-in ribeye prepared rare. What could be better than that?
What would you say is your greatest accomplishment? For me, the most satisfying moments come in thinking about the lives of individual students I ministered to who have left high school and pursued ministry full-time.
What was the most interesting job you had before becoming a pastor? I bused tables and washed dishes at Baker’s Square.
What made you decide to go into full-time ministry? I came to Christ in high school and the pastor had a huge impact on me. To that point, I had never really had a clear vision for what I wanted to do in life. I began wondering if God might use me to impact other students’ lives.
What’s the most unique situation you’ve ever been in? I was homeless in Waco, Texas – or at least experienced a small part of what that might be like. Our high school ministry took part in a poverty simulation that was incredibly powerful and eye-opening.
Andy and Lisa have been married for 13 years and have a one-year-old daughter, Madelyn.
Dave Briscoe Associate Pastor of connections
What’s the coolest part of your job at Elmbrook? Meeting new people and seeing the excitement on their faces as they start to grow spiritually
If you could drive any car for a day, what would it be? Bugatti – goes 250+ miles an hour and has 1000+ horsepower
What’s your favorite song for singing in the car? Awesome God.
What’s your favorite Bible passage, and why? 1 Corinthians 15:58 because it is encouraging.
What’s your favorite smell? New car smell.
What’s the most powerful book you’ve ever read? The Bible, hands down.
If you had to boil your personality down to a Tweet, how would you describe yourself? I am reserved, competitive, introverted.
If you could have dinner anywhere tonight, where would it be? What would you eat and who would you share it with? A steak at Canadian Steak House in Epcot at Disney World with my wife Rhea.
What would you say is your greatest accomplishment? Completing seminary, pastoring a church, passing my private pilot’s written test and flying a plane (with a little help).
What was the most interesting job you had before becoming a pastor? Shoe store manager. I worked with soles.
What made you decide to go into full-time ministry? God’s call and encouragement from people who knew me.
What’s the most unique situation you’ve ever been in? Being Billy Graham’s chauffer for the afternoon when I was a teenager
Ask him about the VIPs in his life, and Dave will tell you about Rhea, his wife, and their seven children. They are only a few players short for a full soccer team, but more avid fans you’ll rarely meet. Dave enjoys attending his children’s activities and working in the garden-like a good Englishman.
Doug Schoen Associate Pastor, Congregational Care
What’s the coolest part of your job at Elmbrook? Being an EST (Emergency Spiritual Technician).
If you could drive any car for a day, what would it be? 1960 Chevy Corvette convertible.
What’s your favorite song for singing in the car? If You’re Happy and You Know It, Tell Your Face.
What’s your favorite Bible passage, and why? 2 Cor 1:3-4. It’s the basis of my ministry.
What’s your favorite smell? A wood stove.
What’s the most powerful book you’ve ever read? Besides the Bible, The Business of Heaven by CS Lewis
If you had to boil your personality down to a Tweet, how would you describe yourself? Impatient.
If you could have dinner anywhere tonight, where would it be? What would you eat and who would you share it with? George Webb’s blueberry pancakes with Carolyn and Carolee.
What would you say is your greatest accomplishment? Writing musical arrangements for Milwaukee Symphony Orchestra.
What was the most interesting job you had before becoming a pastor? Professional trumpeter.
What made you decide to go into full-time ministry A call from Stuart Briscoe.
What’s the most unique situation you’ve ever been in? Ambush in Africa, then year later abducted at gunpoint in same area.
Doug and his wife, Carolyn, have two children, five grandchildren, and a faithful German Shepherd. He has a first degree black belt in tae-kwon-do.
Mel Lawrenz Minister-At-Large
What’s the coolest part of your job at Elmbrook? Sharing with people outside Elmbrook the abundant blessings of many experiences over three decades of pastoral ministry.
What’s your favorite Bible passage, and why? The Gospel of John. As Leon Morris said: the Gospel of John is like a river shallow enough for a child to wade in and deep enough for an elephant to swim in. Simple words; deep, deep truth; the person of Jesus.
What’s the most powerful book you’ve ever read? The Cross of Christ by John Stott.
If you could have dinner anywhere tonight, where would it be? What would you eat and who would you share it with? Outdoor cafe in the huge public square of Krakow, Poland, 10 pm on a warm August night, minstrels all around, with Ingrid, my wife.
What made you decide to go into full-time ministry? Other people told me it was obvious to them, then it dawned on me.
What’s the most unique situation you’ve ever been in? One of these: 1) Playing football for our high school homecoming game on the turf of Lambeau Field, or 2) Speaking to 6,000 pastors in Nigeria over three days in covered tents; 3) Sinking my car in Lake Michigan while launching a boat.
In his spare time Mel enjoys traveling with his wife and his two young-adult children, Eva and Christopher, keeping an eye on current events, and spending time in the outdoors, near a body of water, preferably.
Dave Seemuth director- Elmbrook Christian study center
What’s the coolest part of your job at Elmbrook? Seeing the “light bulb” go on when Scripture makes sense to someone when I am teaching a class.
If you could drive any car for a day, what would it be? Porsche 911 turbo
What’s your favorite song for singing in the car? I’m a horrible singer.
What’s your favorite smell? Birch sweet oil in a Norwegian sauna.
What’s the most powerful book you’ve ever read? The Bible is the right answer…. but other than that, Exclusion and Embrace by Miroslav Volf.
If you could have dinner anywhere tonight, where would it be? What would you eat and who would you share it with? On the island of Kauai with my wife.
What would you say is your greatest accomplishment? Surviving being a father!
What was the most interesting job you had before becoming a pastor? Bagging sand at a sand pit.
What made you decide to go into full-time ministry? Bagging sand at a sand pit.
What’s the most unique situation you’ve ever been in? Having my life threatened at a wedding rehearsal that I was conducting.
Dave and his wife, Karen, reside in Waukesha and have two children, Daniel and Kristin.
Stuart Briscoe Minister-At-Large
What’s the coolest part of your job at Elmbrook? The “coolest thing” about my job at Elmbrook is it’s not a job! If it was, I would have been fired or retired many years ago. Instead I’m still gainfully employed at 80 doing what I love to do – sharing the “Good News.”
If you could drive any car for a day, what would it be? My favorite car to drive is my own little British racing green Mini Cooper with its Union Jack (British flag!!) decals. But I insist on driving it for more than a day. :)
What’s your favorite smell? A smell that has the ability to transport me back over the decades and the miles to my childhood home in England is the smell of freshly cut grass after rain.
What’s the most powerful book you’ve ever read? Recently I read the biography of Dietrich Bonhoeffer, the German theologian and author who served as a spy and double agent during WWII, was implicated in the plots to kill Hitler and was executed just days before the end of the War. It is a book that is deeply theological – the practical kind – morally disturbing, exciting, informative – it told me much about the days I lived through as a boy – and includes a most remarkable love story. There’s something for everyone who has the patience to finish a long, thoughtful, challenging book.
What would you say is your greatest accomplishment? Without duobt my greatest accomplishment was to marry Jill. (I didn’t know how to answer this but Jill helped me.)
What was the most interesting job you had before becoming a pastor? It would have to be serving in the Royal Marines during the Korean War. there were no great heroics on my part although I was awarded a “wound certificate” for breaking my nose (twice – same nose!) playing Rugby.
Stuart has written more than 40 books and the media ministry Telling the Truth, which he founded in 1971, continues to reach out daily around the world. In 2000, after serving for 30 years as Elmbrook’s Senior Pastor, Stuart and his wife Jill, embarked on new ministries as Elmbrook’s Ministers at Large, concentrating on reaching out to pastors, missionaries and church leaders on every continent while maintaining close ties with Elmbrook, their home church. Stuart and Jill have 3 children and 13 grandchildren.
Jill Briscoe Minister-At-Large
What’s the coolest part of your job at Elmbrook? The people!
What’s your favorite song for singing in the car? “Lord, I’m Coming Home”
What’s your favorite smell? English roses.
What’s the most powerful book you’ve ever read? The Bible. Second place is “Life on the Highest Plane” by Ruth Paxon.
If you could have dinner anywhere tonight, where would it be? What would you eat, and who would you share it with? In the U.K. at Capernwray with our extended family. English lamb meat and roast potatoes.
What would you say is your greatest accomplishment? Our 54th wedding anniversary.
What was the most interesting job you had before becoming a pastor? A pastor’s wife!
What’s the most unique situation you’ve ever been in? On 9/11 in air when the terrorist attacks happened in NYC. We were taken to Newfoundland for 6 days.
Council of Elders
(* indicates involvement as a Liaison to the Council of Elders).
Scott Arbeiter
If you could drive any car for a day, what would it be? A BMW M6 convertible
What’s your favorite song for singing in the car? Born to Be Wild. (A long story….but it’s from my hot rod days)
What’s your favorite Bible passage, and why? Of many, today my favorite is John 8:58. I love how it shouts out that Jesus is, in fact, God.
What’s your favorite smell? Fresh mown hay.
If you could have dinner anywhere tonight, where would it be? What would you eat and who would you share it with? I would be at home with Jewel and my daughters, on the patio on a warm summer night. I’ve eaten in some of the best restaurants in the world, but none has ever topped my patio, because of the company.
What would you say is your greatest accomplishment? 28 years and Jewel still loves me!
What’s the most unique situation you’ve ever been in? Pushing a stuck van in Africa while an angry mother elephant prepared to charge
Scott Arbeiter serves as Lead Pastor at Elmbrook Church. His eighteen years of lay ministry at Elmbrook Church in the neighborhood group ministries, as well as his career in management in the field of public accounting, have well prepared him for this position. Scott is responsible for oversight of a number of our pastors and ministry areas and works to support Philip in the broader leadership of the congregation and staff. In addition to his role at Elmbrook, Scott serves as Chairman of the Board for World Relief. He and his wife, Jewel, have three daughters: Kelsey, Jacquelyn, and Karis.
Shanthini Baskaran*
What’s your favorite part of being an elder? Being able to see God at work across the ministries at Elmbrook church.
If you could drive any car for a day, what would it be? I spend so much of my day driving my kids around to their various activities, so I think, for a day I would like to be chauffeured around in a stretch limo.
What’s your favorite Bible passage, and why? 2 Corinthians 3:18’ And we, who with unveiled faces all reflect[a] the Lord’s glory, are being transformed into his likeness with ever-increasing glory, which comes from the Lord, who is the Spirit.’ It speaks to me about what we should be doing- reflecting; and what happens to us as we do- we’re transformed into the likeness of our King.
What’s your favorite smell? The salty smell of the ocean
What’s the most powerful book you’ve ever read? (other than the Bible) Personally, these 2 books made a huge impact on my life: Hannah Hurnard’s “Hind feet on High places” and Elizabeth Elliot’s “Through gates of splendor”
If you could have dinner anywhere tonight, where would it be? What would you eat and who would you share it with? It would be at Kovalam, India, in one of the beach restaurants there, watching the sunset over the Arabian Ocean with my husband Vinod, and I would feast on appams, fish molee and kerela chicken stew.
What would you say is your greatest accomplishment? Discipling and homeschooling my 3 kids.
The daughter of national missionaries in southern India, Shanthini and her husband Vinod are deeply involved in world missions at Elmbrook. They and their 3 children (Aashish, Amith and Talila) are involved in regular short-term missions teams. Their outside-in view of US culture is a refreshing perspective that helps us to see ourselves well. Shanthini co-chairs the Missionary Care Team, which is responsible in large part for the emotional and practical support of those who represent us around the world. Shanthini is a clinical psychologist by training. Combining a witty style and seasoned life experience, she is a counselor, speaker and writer. She loves to read, enjoys having people over to her home and homeschools her 3 children. If you have participated in any of the Elmbrook-authored Bible studies, you have been touched by Shanthini’s God-given gifts as she has been a key writer for many of those materials.
Tom Boyce
What’s your favorite part of being an elder? Getting to know so many of the members, staff, and pastors at Elmbrook and to see how God is forming and using them to build His Kingdom.
If you could drive any car for a day, what would it be? Actually, I have a pretty good time driving my own car—a 1991 Volvo wagon with 502,000 miles as of January 2012. I know, you are thinking, “Get a life!”
What’s your favorite smell? One of my favorite smells is the one that used to hit me when I walked into the cottage my parents used to own on the Minocqua chain (lake Kewagesaga). It was a kind of unique musty smell that triggered many happy memories of fun in the Northwoods.
What’s the most powerful book you’ve ever read? (other than the Bible) Les Miserables by Victor Hugo.
If you had to boil your personality down to a Tweet, how would you describe yourself? (140 characters) Rather than personality, I would say my primary motivations are to grow (and to see organizations with which I am associated grow and improve), to be a good steward, and for me and organizations with which I am involved achieve standards of excellence.
If you could have dinner anywhere tonight, where would it be? What would you eat and who would you share it with? I would choose a favorite lodge in Jackson Hole, Wyoming, where they serve things like bison and elk along with some superb salads and soups and amazing things for dessert like basil ice cream. And I would be having dinner with iunia and our sons Luc and James.
What’s the most unique situation you’ve ever been in? Workig on a kibbutz in Galilee when I was 18 years old and travelling around Isreal.
The first worship service Tom attended at Elmbrook Church was in 1976 as a college-aged new Christian. He remembers his concerns about attending a church that was so large, but, once the service began, Tom felt like a starving person sitting down to a five-course, gourmet meal. It was the first time he had heard a Biblically-based sermon or participated with God’s children in worship. His appreciation for Elmbrook grew while serving as an unpaid summer intern two years later. After graduating from college in 1979, Tom joined the church after completing membership class. Areas of particular interest at Elmbrook have included the Singles Ministry and Missions. Tom’s wife, Iunia, was born and raised in Romania; they acknowledge that, without Christ, they would never have met. Iunia and Tom have two sons, Luc and James. The entire family enjoys reading, music, travel and a wide variety of outdoor activities. Besides serving on the Council, Tom chairs the Elmbrook Church Foundation (or Legacy Fund) which provides grants for catalytic initiatives at Elmbrook, a vehicle for families to make lifetime gifts and bequests, and education on generosity for the congregation. James 5:13-16 instructs believers who are sick to call the elders of the church to pray and anoint them. One of the things Tom enjoys most about his role as an elder is serving as coordinator for these prayer times for our members. Tom’s term on the Council expires at the end of 2014.
Matt Gibson
What’s your favorite part of being an elder? Governance for God’s work through maturing its members.
If you could drive any car for a day, what would it be? All-wheel-drive BMW sedan with a 6-speed manual.
What’s your favorite Bible passage, and why? I like Hebrews 12:14-15. Make every effort to live at peace with all men and to be holy; without holiness no one will see the Lord. See to it that no one misses the grace of God and that no bitter root grows up to cause trouble and defile many.
What’s the most powerful book you’ve ever read? (other than the Bible) While there is not just one, I find biographies to be most powerful.
If you had to boil your personality down to a Tweet, how would you describe yourself? (140 characters) A friendly yet mission driven person who thrives on both people and work. I like leadership to include connecting people and ideas into productive lives for the Lord’s work.
If you could have dinner anywhere tonight, where would it be? What would you eat and who would you share it with? Maxie’s Southern Comfort with my wife, Nancy.
What would you say is your greatest accomplishment? There is not one but things that immediately come to mind are responding to Christ as Savior and Lord, enjoying a long and loving marriage, watching three children grow in maturity, and various professional challenges such as finishing a doctorate or equipping a community to pass a bond referendum.
Matt and his wife Nancy joined Elmbrook Church almost 30 years ago before leaving to become charter members at Westbrook. With their three children, David, Timothy, and Hannah, they rejoined Elmbrook 16 years ago when Matt joined the Elmbrook School District as superintendent. He recalls leaving before the new sanctuary was constructed and returning to see it completed as an inspiring place for thousands to come to faith, worship, mature, and minister. As a former music teacher, Matt’s most visible role at Elmbrook Church was conducting the children’s choir in the late 1990s. The singers have since graduated from high school, many are in college, and they reconnect to recall the memorable experiences shared in children’s choir. Matt has taken counseling classes through the Study Center and found many applications. He views conflict as a natural and normal part of life and enjoys being available to help people through God, self, and other awareness, and prayer to empower growth and change. When Matt has time off he enjoys travel. He and Nancy took three groups of adopted Korean children on mission trips to South Korea when their adopted children were growing up, and more recently returned to the orient to visit their oldest son, David, a US Marine in Okinawa, and Elmbrook missionaries Bryan and Jan Thompson in Japan. When Matt retires, he and Nancy are seeking God’s call for further ministry opportunities. In the meantime, he is enjoying the call to his first year as an elder, and the compelling mix of broad governance roles for God’s church with the intimate anointing roles for needs of His people.
Gary Gregg
If you could drive any car for a day, what would it be? An Audi R-8 or a 1968 Shelby GT500 K/R.
What’s your favorite smell? Burning leaves or freshly cut lawn.
What’s the most powerful book you’ve ever read? The Pursuit of Holiness by Jerry Bridges, Screwtape Letters by C.S. Lewis, or The Prodigal God by Timothy Keller .
If you could have dinner anywhere, what would you have and who would you share it with? The Cheesecake Factory with my family–ending with a slice of cheesecake!
Favorite Bible verse? Joshua 1:5-9. This passage lays out great promises from God. John 10:10. This verse tells us that Jesus came to give us life, life to its fullest. This is the “theme” verse I work from as a psychologist. I try to help people live life to its fullest as God intends!
What’s the most interesting job you’ve ever had? Laying sewer pipe for a construction company, sometimes being 40 feet underground in a tunnel–made me realize why I stayed in school!
What would you say is your most significant accomplishment? 28 years of marriage and raising our 3 kids.
I first started attending Elmbrook my junior year in high school over 30 years ago. Except for periodic breaks to go get educated, I have always called Elmbrook home. Kim and I have been married for 28 years. We met at a Navigators Bible study in college. Kim has been a flight attendant for over 25 years. We have 3 children: Shannon, C.J. and Abby. After college I interned with the High School Ministry at Elmbrook and then decided to head off to seminary on a journey to become a psychologist, and that’s what I do for a living! I am Owner and Clinical Director of the Genesis Counseling Group in Elm Grove. Over the years, Kim and I have had the privledge of serving in the High School Ministry and the nursery. I have enjoyed opportunities to speak/teach at several Elmbrook ministries including Children’s, MOPS, JR. High, High School, Singles, Lay Counseling and the Men’s ministry– often a seminar speaker at the No Regrets Conference. Other roles include community involvement, serving on a coalition for youth in the schools, speaking at Parent Network functions and sitting on search committies for high school coaches and athletic directors. One of my favorite things to do is hang out with my elbows over a fence watching my kids participate in all their sports. If you can’t find me doing that, I just might be on a golf course somewhere!
Philip Griffin
If you could drive any car for a day, what would it be? A dune buggy.
What’s your favorite smell? Chicken enchiladas baking in the oven.
What’s the most powerful book you’ve ever read? The Bible, of course. Outside of the Bible, The Ragamuffin Gospel.
If you could have dinner anywhere tonight, where would it be? What would you eat and who would you share it with? My wife and children at “El Porton”, a restaurant in Mexico City where my parents used to take us as kids.
What was the most interesting job you had before becoming a pastor? A ‘hod-carrier’ for a masonry company in Phoenix.
What made you decide to go into full-time ministry? It was a God thing.
What’s the most unique situation you’ve ever been in? I was held up at gun point by a cab driver in Mexico, with my wife standing behind me.
Philip Griffin has recently joined our staff as Senior Pastor. Formerly the Senior Pastor of First Wesleyan Church in Battle Creek, Michigan, Philip is getting adjusted to Milwaukee and is excited about the ministry possibilities in the Brookfield and Milwaukee areas. An evangelist at the core and someone who has come through his own theological questioning, he has a heart for bringing the Gospel to the hurting and broken. He was raised as a missionary son, in the heart of Mexico City. Fluent in Spanish and formerly the pastor of a racially diverse congregation in Texas, he misses a culture that is more diverse and metropolitan. He has a passion for Scripture and believes mission is a lifestyle. Philip enjoys a good action movie, long bike rides, mountain biking, hiking (as long as there are no bears) and spending time with his family. He and his wife Deanna have three children; Jessica, Lexi and Colin; and two grandchildren.
Gail Hanson*
What’s your favorite part of being an elder? I enjoy praying with and for people after the service and throughout the week.
If you could drive any car for a day, what would it be? My 22 year old daughter, Becky, is the car girl. I would choose to be a passenger with her as she drove a Ferrari.
What’s your favorite song for singing in the car? Give me Jesus by Fernando Ortega.
What’s your favorite Bible passage, and why? There are so many, but I’d select Lamentations 3:21-23 because it reminds me of the Lord’s love, compassion and faithfulness which I have seen evidenced in my live in the last two years.
What’s your favorite smell? I love the smell of freshly baked bread.
If you could have dinner anywhere tonight, where would it be? What would you eat and who would you share it with? I would eat outdoors somewhere warm with a view of the mountain. I would eat a steak and would share the meal my husband Richard Graebner.
What was the most interesting job you’ve had in your life? The job that drew the most questions on my resume was my time as a farm laborer during summers while I was in college. I packed fruit or tracked piece work for the migrant workers in the field and communicated with them in Spanish.
At a small group Bible Study at the University of Michigan another group member, knowing that Gail was taking an accounting job in Milwaukee, suggested she search out the church pastored by Stuart Briscoe. She took that advice, found Elmbrook Church and has been attending ever since. That was 33 years ago. Gail began involvement in Elmbrook’s missions program in her 20’s initially by praying for missionaries each month and then joining a regional missions committee. Her commitment to missions continues, as she currently chairs the Mission Leadership Team. It was at the Missions Festival in 1997 that Richard Graebner, a former Elmbrook missionary, and his 8-year-old daughter Becky sat next to Gail and struck up a conversation. Gail and Richard were married the next year. When Gail and Richard moved to their current home in the Town of Ottawa in 2006, David and Kassie Kasali, Elmbrook supported missionaries with the Congo Initiative, helped them with the move and offered a blessing of their home. Since that time their home has been opened as a place to entertain missionaries and other groups sharing fellowship and abundant quantities of food. Gail is in her third year as a liaison to the Council of Elders. It is her joy to pray for and with others at Elmbrook.
LYLE LANDOWSKI
If you could drive any car for a day, what would it be? An old, red Ford pick up truck. It is like reclaiming a piece of my childhood.
What’s your favorite song for singing in the car? The worship song In Christ Alone. I play it just loud enough so that I can’t hear myself!
What’s your favorite Bible passage, and why? Galatians 2:20. It is a short passage, but it cuts to the core. It reminds us that if we want to make Christ real in our lives (like Paul) we must mortify the flesh and move beyond the biggest obstacle standing in the way – ourselves.
What’s your favorite smell? A tie between chocolate chip cookies fresh out of the oven and ground beef cooking on the the skillet. :)
What’s the most powerful book you’ve ever read? (other than the Bible) Knowing God by J.I. Packer.
If you could have dinner anywhere tonight, where would it be? What would you eat and who would you share it with? I would go to Mr. Wok (small pan Asian restaurant) in Waukesha with my wife and kids. We always order twice as much as we should, but it is great food and family time.
Lyle has been part of the “Brook” community most of his life, attending Northbrook as a child and Elmbrook most of his adult life. Lyle and his wife, May, were married at Elmbrook in 2005 and they have three young daughters: Faith, Mena and Julia. Fostered by the blessings in his upbringing and family life, Lyle is passionate about helping families see the sacred and high calling Christ calls us to in marriage and family. Professionally, Lyle is a partner at Inland Companies, where he spends his time “brokering” commercial real estate transactions of all kinds. Beyond his involvement in several small groups, Lyle is actively involved in the prison basketball ministry, pairing his love for people with his love for sports. In his spare time, Lyle enjoys family and friends, playing sports and reading theology.
John F. Matthews
If you could drive any car for a day, what would it be? A jeep wrangler, with the doors and roof off, on a summer day of at least 90 degrees temp.
What’s your favorite Bible passage, and why? John 3:30 “(end of v29)Therefore this joy of mine is now complete. 30 He must increase, but I must decrease.” It’s a reminder to be humble and remain joyful. The reference is also my first name with my birthdate.
What’s your favorite smell? Homemade baked bread. It reminds me of my mom who very often baked bread. (Lots of nostalgia in that)
What’s the most powerful book you’ve ever read? (other than the Bible) “Radical” by David Platt and “Crazy Love” by Francis Chan
If you had to boil your personality down to a Tweet, how would you describe yourself? I embrace life by taking it all in, including being joyful, fun-loving, friendly, adventurous, unconventional, flexible, a risk-taker and sometimes even distracted.
If you could have dinner anywhere tonight, where would it be? What would you eat and who would you share it with? On a tropical beach with my wife, my kids, their spouses and the grandkids. We would be eating deep fried chicken, and the dessert would be vanilla ice cream with chocolate chips.
What would you say is your greatest accomplishment? Being happily married to Margie for 27+ years, raising 6 kids and having an good ongoing relationship with all of them.
What’s the most unique situation you’ve ever been in? Hitchhiking as a college student and being picked up by 2 young escaped prisoners. We drove along nicely, had a good conversation with them, and got to know them as they shared about their lives and who they were. When they were eventually stopped and surrounded by several police cars, the cops were confused as to who I was, but searched me, handcuffed me and then eventually let me go. Unfortunately, it was a very quiet rural highway with very few cars going by. I waited a long time to get a ride, but eventually did. (Not sure if this is the MOST unique situation, since many others come to mind.)
What is one challenge or piece of encouragement you’d give to the Elmbrook congregation? Reach the youth and young adults, and encourage them to find their passion and then sacrificially take action. `
Paul Mullen
What’s your favorite part of being an elder? I really enjoy visiting with small groups. The invitations don’t come very often (hint hint), but when we are invited, to get to know Elmbrookers in their small groups helps me to see with new eyes!
What’s the most powerful book you’ve ever read? (other than the Bible) I’m always reading something different and my family will tell you that I’m often excited about whatever book is current. I really enjoyed Andy Crouch’s book “Culture Making” as a way for Christians to think critically about the community in which we live.
If you had to boil your personality down to a Tweet, how would you describe yourself? (140 characters)
@paullmullen is curious about so many things and loves to explore and challenge ideas and secretly wishes he were a musician.
If you could have dinner anywhere tonight, where would it be? What would you eat and who would you share it with? My daughters are becoming gifted cooks. I love their interest in experimenting, so any meal they make wins. As I type these words, I’m on a plane returning from Turkey, so how about hummus and mint yogurt served with flat bread at a candle-lit open air café in Istanbul with Nancy?
What would you say is your greatest accomplishment? I grew up in a family with multi-generational issues of alcoholism and other issues. Breaking that generational cycle has been a gift and an accomplishment. The gift has been from God and my wife and kids and good friends. The accomplishment, well… I suppose it is just making a few good decisions.
What was the most interesting job you’ve had in your life? I was a lifeguard, a swimming coach, a fireman, an engineer, a marketer and a business leader. Except for the lifeguard, they’ve all been interesting. Right now I get to work on a project that is related to healthcare microbusinesses, and the economics of poverty and public policy as it relates to maternal and fetal health in developing economies. How cool is that?
What’s the most unique situation you’ve ever been in? I suppose it is the free-fall skydiving incident where I had to maneuver myself to rescue my friend whose chute didn’t open and then ride along the beach on a BMW motorcycle with him on the back to outrun the oncoming storm swell coming in from the ocean. Of course none of that really happened, but the fantasy is unique! Oh yeah, and I was wearing these really cool sunglasses. Who made up these questions, anyway?
What is one challenge or piece of encouragement you’d give to the Elmbrook congregation? Colossians 1:9-11. For this reason, since the day we heard about you, we have not stopped praying for you. We continually ask God to fill you with the knowledge of his will through all the wisdom and understanding that the Spirit gives, so that you may live a life worthy of the Lord and please him in every way: bearing fruit in every good work, ,growing in the knowledge of god, being strengthened with all power according to his glorious might so that you may have great endurance and patience, and giving joyful thanks to the Father who has qualified you to share in the inheritance of his holy people in the kingdom of light.
With his wife Nancy and three daughters, Paul describes himself as the maintenance man in a sorority. Whether it’s maintenance at home, or Marketing at GE Healthcare, or missions at Elmbrook, Paul’s a student, reading a book or two a month on topics from politics to theology to fiction. Since the sorority rules at home, romantic comedies are the movies of choice, but Paul sneaks in adventure and suspense films on the airplanes when he travels. Traveling more than 150,000 miles for work in 2010, Paul makes a point of stopping in to visit Elmbrook missionaries whenever his business takes him nearby. He and his family have led short-term teams of families into Guatemala every year to run summer camps for kids from the Guatemala City garbage dump slum community. Guatemala is never far from the family conversations. Paul’s a techie (you’ll see him around Elmbrook with his iPad Bible instead of a paper one), and fills his leisure time with studio, sports, and portrait photography. He says his favorite parts of “eldering” are visiting with small groups and meeting and praying with individuals. He’s excited to see Elmbrook’s expanding potential to have influence in the places where culture is most in need of the love, wisdom, and integrity of the people of Jesus.
Bush Nielsen
What’s your favorite song to sing in the car? I don’t (or shouldn’t) sing, but my favorites are “I’ll Fly Away” and “His Eye is On the Sparrow”… the latter especially as performed by Mahalia Jackson.
What’s your favorite Bible passage? Galatians 5:22: “But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. Against these there is no law.”
What was the most interesting job you ever had? Working third shift in a plastics factory during college. I learned that many jobs are hot, dirty, tedious and dangerous, and that many people work while others sleep.
What’s the most powerful book that you have read (other than the Bible)? Either Carl Sandburg’s biography of Abraham Lincoln or Studs Terkel’s book “Working,” which is an interview of 100 people about their jobs.
Bush and his wife Sarah have attended Elmbrook for about 10 years, and were at Meadowbrook for the prior 12 years. They have three sons, all living in Minnesota. Bush is a real estate lawyer who handles boundary disputes and lien issues. He is on a missionary care team and helps out at The Community Warehouse in Milwaukee. Sarah is active in addiction recovery work, mainly through Your Choice To Live, which educates students about addiction.
Michael Noel
If you could drive any car for a day, what would it be? Bugatti Veyron Super Sport. I’m just curious about what makes this car worth $2.4M and to feel what it is like to go 0-60 in 2.5 seconds.
What’s your favorite Bible passage, and why? Micah 6:8, He has shown you, O man, what is good. And what does the LORD require of you? To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God. I just love this reminder of how to put feet to your faith.
If you could have dinner anywhere tonight, where would it be? What would you eat and who would you share it with? Marker 88 in the Florida Keys at sunset. Key Lime Seafood Penne with my wife Barbara.
What would you say is your greatest accomplishment? Marrying the must beautiful woman in the world.
What was the most interesting job you’ve had in your life? Mapping the 150-mile long coral reef tract from Miami to Key West when I was in graduate school.
What’s the most unique situation you’ve ever been in? Walking off the field after snapping the ball over the punter’s head allowing our high school arch rivals to score the winning touchdown.
What is one challenge or piece of encouragement you’d give to the Elmbrook congregation? Don’t settle for status quo. Always strive to grow deeper in your faith and in your love for the Lord Jesus Christ. I believe this happens best in the context of a small group. The Adult Discipleship Hub offers a variety of discipleship group opportunities for your consideration.
Mike and his wife Barbara have been married for 30 years and joined Elmbrook Church in 1991. Mike served as a Ranger in Boys Club as his two sons Chris and Alex went through the ranks. In the Men’s Ministry, Mike serves as a small group leader and is a regular seminar speaker at the No Regret’s Conference. He is also a small group leader and lecturer for the membership class and Faith Foundations. He has participated in or led teams on short term mission trips to the Philippines and India. Mike also serves in the Senior Adult Ministry by preaching monthly at a local nursing home. Mike is a Principal Hydrogeologist with Tetra Tech, Inc., a worldwide consulting, engineering and construction firm. To relax Mike likes to read and, when the weather is nice, doing anything outdoors like boating, fishing, hiking and biking.
Ramu Ramiah
What’s your favorite Bible passage, and why? Psalm 103 – I have known the Lord’s compassion, forgiveness and love and it is my desire that my life is lived out in praise of Him.
What’s your favorite smell? Durians
What’s the most powerful book you’ve ever read? (other than the Bible) Basic Christianity by John Stott – a logical progression of evidence that left you with no choice except to become a Christian - and which led to my being born again.
If you could have dinner anywhere tonight, where would it be? What would you eat and who would you share it with? Penang Restaurant in Chicago; Roti Canai; my family.
What would you say is your greatest accomplishment? My two girls.
What was the most interesting job you’ve had in your life? Exploration engineer on oil rigs in Indonesia and Australia, both offshore and in the middle of the jungle.
What is one challenge or piece of encouragement you’d give to the Elmbrook congregation? Take joy in all circumstances, to see the bigger picture, that the Lord is in control.
Ramu Ramiah, born a Hindu in India, was sent to Malaysia at the age of 6 to go to school. He encountered the Lord through Christian friends, classmates and college roommates, and accepted the Lord Jesus almost 31 years ago. He testifies joyfully that God is good and He is faithful despite the resulting separation from his family. Ramu is now the father of two girls, married to Letha and is the proud owner of a mellow yellow lab. Ramu lived and worked as an engineer in the oilfields in Australia and Indonesia before coming to the US to do his MBA at Yale. He has been at Elmbrook since 1992 and has served in the church as a small group leader, elder, and on the Missions and Finance committees. He has traveled to Costa Rica, Indonesia, and India on mission trips and is on the board of BASICS. He also heads up the International Badminton Ministry at Elmbrook.
Dave Schmitt
What’s your favorite part of being an elder? Meeting and praying with people up front on Saturday or Sunday services when Philip challenges people to come forward.
What’s the most powerful book you’ve ever read (other than the Bible)? ”Les Miserables” with the story of the redemption of man.
What is your favorite smell? I love the smell of bacon frying! (not too good for a vascular surgeon)
What would you say is your greatest accomplishment? My marriage to Eddi (33 years) and our two sons Aaron (27) and Nathan (26).
What is one encouragement or challenge you would give to the congregation? I really believe God’s Spirit is moving in our church and members. As we continue to seek and submit to His Spirit and will, we will be blessed, but not necessarily in the ways we may expect.
Dave and his wife, Eddi, first attended Elmbrook in 1978 after graduating from UW-Madison and moving to the Milwaukee area. At that time, they were involved in college ministry and met other couples they have been friends with for over 30 years. They left to help start Meadowbrook in the 80′s and later moved to Delafield and attended Westbrook. After their two boys went off to college, they returned to Elmbrook, where they have enjoyed working in the nursery on Sunday mornings for the last several years. The Schmitt family has done several overseas medical missions over the years to Congo, Kenya, Chad, Nicaragua and Haiti.
Dick Whittow
If you could drive any car for a day, what would it be? A Hummer – just to see what it is like.
What’s your favorite song for singing in the car? ”I Will Rise” – Chris Tomlin
What’s your favorite Bible passage, and why? Colossians 2:6-7. It was our wedding verse.
What’s your favorite smell? Bread baking.
If you could have dinner anywhere tonight, where would it be? What would you eat and who would you share it with? Mama Mia’s on Bluemound for garlic bread and pizza with my family. It is a long-time tradition.
What’s the most unique situation you’ve ever been in? I was videotaped by hundreds at Disney World as Minnie Mouse “joined” our family as we ate lunch. She even used my handkerchief to wipe her eyes and blow her nose.
Dick has been involved at Elmbrook since 1979 (except for a short period living in Cincinnati) and met his wife Jan in 1980 at singles ministry Bible study. They have 2 adult children, Megan and Ryan. Dick is a graduate of Carroll University and has been Director of Client Servicing and Consultant Relations at Robert W. Baird’s Baird Advisors division since 2000. He has been active in the Elmbrook children’s and youth ministries for many years, including as a small group leader, Kids Kamp teacher, and worship leader. Travel, music and getaways in Door County fill his leisure time.
