PASTOR

Heather discovered the immeasurable love of Jesus as a young adult. Now she works to help people of all ages and backgrounds to encounter the living Jesus whose grace heals, frees, makes new and unites. Heather has a bachelor’s degree in Industrial Engineering from Iowa State University and a Masters of Divinity from United Theological Seminary. She has served in pastoral ministry across Indiana since 2011 and was ordained in 2015. Heather gets joy from reading, hiking, music and odd animal facts.

EMAIL: heather.foley@inumc.org

DIRECTOR OF YOUNG CHRISTIAN DISCIPLESHIP

Liz Heiman is an Evansville native and a graduate of North High School and the University of Southern Indiana, where she studied Early Childhood Education. She has volunteered or worked in children’s ministry in various capacities since high school and deeply values the lifelong relationships that come with it. Liz is married to her husband, Caleb, and they have three children who keep them on their toes. A lifelong Methodist, Liz is thrilled to be a part of such a warm and welcoming church family. She looks forward to sharing the love of Jesus with the children and youth.

EMAIL: liz@aldersgateumc.church

DIRECTOR OF YOUTH MINISTRIES

Zane Clodfelter is a native of Evansville, IN. He graduated from Harrison High School and then from the University of Southern Indiana with a degree in journalism. In addition to his duties at the church as Youth Director, Zane also serves as the senior sports editor at the Spencer County Journal Democrat and works as a public address announcer for the Evansville Otters, University of Southern Indiana, and University of Evansville. Zane grew up attending Aldersgate and was confirmed here in 2003. He is the proud uncle of Barrett and Blakely.

EMAIL: zclodfelter@evansvilleotters.com

ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT

Diane Aker was born and raised in Evansville, IN. She grew up riding horses in a country-like setting on and around her parents' 5-acre farm. She and her husband, Kevin, have worshipped at Aldersgate since 1992. Diane has worked in the office at the church for 21 years. Diane and Kevin have three children and five grandchildren. In her free time, Diane likes to read, attend Jazzercise classes, and spend time with her family. Greeting people in the church office brings Diane great joy, and she always has a smile for everyone.

EMAIL: d.aker@aldersgateum.org

MEMBERSHIP & FINANCIAL SECRETARY

Nancy has worked at Aldersgate since July 2005 as the Director of Children’s Ministry. In December of 2023, she retired from that role and now serves as Membership and Finance Secretary. Nancy has a passion for teaching people the Good News about the love of Jesus Christ. She was raised in Louisville, KY. Nancy received her Bachelor's Degree from Western Kentucky University. She and her husband, James, have been married for 37 years and have four children and three precious grand boys. She has many favorite Bible verses however she currently clings to Exodus 14:14. In her free time, Nancy loves to play games, read, and go on long walks.

EMAIL: nbdroberts@gmail.com

CUSTODIAN

Elbert Moody was born in Dyersburg, TN. His family moved to Evansville when Elbert was 7 years old. He attended Wheeler Elementary School and Reitz High School. He and his wife April have been married for 25 years. Elbert has lovingly cared for our church building and grounds for 32 years. In his free time, Elbert likes to spend time with his family and enjoys fishing. Elbert has a great sense of humor, and his laughter can often be heard throughout the hallways of the church.

ORGANIST & PIANIST

For over 20 years Barry has served as a member of the worship team here at Aldersgate and has severed four United Methodist congregations in the past 39 years. He is currently the organist and pianist for worship. Barry also accompanies the Contempo! Choir which provides special music for worship two to three times per month. Barry’s love for God, His church, and the music of our faith has continued to inspire him to share the talent God most graciously provided him. Many find it interesting that music is not Barry’s professional career but rather his passion. Barry has spent his career working as a computer systems engineer at a local manufacturer. A unique part of our ministry is Barry's use of a keyboard to create orchestrations used with live piano to enhance the accompaniment of the choir and other service music.

“When in our music God is glorified, and adoration leaves no room for pride, it is a though the whole creation cried Alleluia!”

EMAIL: bschaar@twc.com

CONTEMPO CHOIR DIRECTOR

Praising God through music has been a vital part of Barbara Russell’s life for as long as she can remember. She began accompanying the church choir and playing the piano in the church when she was 16. After several years of accompanying, God gave Barbara the courage to apply for a position as a choir director. (Ok, She actually fought Him on this.) Although Barbara did have a music degree, she was still surprised when she was hired because she had no vocal experience. Barbara is grateful for all the ways God has richly blessed her through all her years as a church musician.

“Commit to the Lord whatever you do, and he will establish your plans.” Proverbs 16:3

EMAIL: barbara@garyrussellcpa.com

CHANCEL CHOIR DIRECTOR & VOCALIST

Joe Uthup was born in Kerala, India and raised in Bloomington IN. from the age of five. He began singing at an early age as a boy soprano and has continued singing ever since. As a baritone, he has performed several solo recitals and roles with IU Opera Theater. He completed his doctorate in music from Indiana University Jacobs School of Music. Currently, he and his wife, Gifty, reside in Evansville where he teaches applied voice at USI and conducts the chancel choir at Aldersgate and where Gifty is an Audiologist at Deaconess Gateway Hospital. In his spare time, Joe enjoys composing music, writing poetry, drawing, and traveling with his wife.

EMAIL - joe.uthup@gmail.com

SECTION LEADER & VOCALIST

Cecilia Paradise, originally from Dallas Texas, moved to New Harmony, Indiana in December 2017. Singing has always been an important activity in her life and has sung in award-winning choruses such as the Plano Children’s Choir, Younger Generation, and most recently the University of Southern Indiana Chamber Choir since she was a child. She joined Aldersgate in September 2018 and took the role of lead soprano in the Chancel Choir. Her favorite bible verse is Psalm 59:16, “But I will sing of your strength, in the morning I will sing of your love; for you are my fortress, my refuge in times of trouble.” This Psalm was also her confirmation verse when she was confirmed in 2010.

EMAIL: cparadise@eagles.usi.edu