MINISTRY TEAM and STAFF

James Ravenscroft

Rev. James Ravenscroft began his new adventure in ministry here at St. Albert United Church as of July 1, 2009. James most recently served at Robertson-Wesley United Church as Transitional Minister and then as Minister of Congregational Care from 2005. Ordained as a Roman Catholic priest in the Archdiocese of Keewatin-Le-Pas (The Pas, Manitoba) in 1992, he was admitted as an ordained minister in the United Church of Canada by Alberta and Northwest Conference in June 2008.

Throughout his ministry, James has been active in youth ministry, worship leadership, educational ministries and social justice work.   His further education experiences include a masters degree in Liturgical Studies, courses in Faith and Formation and Pastoral Care with Youth and Young Adults, and a course in the Cree language. He is excited to become part of the team and share ministry with us at St. Albert United Church.

Nancy Chegus

Nancy shares her gifts as a teacher and published songwriter for the United Church of Canada. After many years of teaching in public school systems, Nancy completed a Master of Theological Studies degree in 2007 at St. Stephen's College on U.of A. campus. Nancy has offered leadership and music at all levels of the United Church over the last 20 years.

Nancy enjoys creating and implementing programs for all ages at St. Albert United. She provides direct leadership for the Youth Choir, the Sunday morning youth program, and the Small Group Ministry Program. She plans the intergenerational worship times and assists in Pastoral Care. Nancy believes her role is not only to provide strong leadership, but also to develop and support other lay leadership within the congregation.

Margaret Ward-Jack

Our Music Director, Margaret Ward-Jack, is an experienced music teacher, choir director and performer. She holds an Associate of the Royal Conservatory of Toronto in Vocal Performance, Bachelor of Education and Arts degrees (music major), and a Diploma in Vocal Performance from Vancouver Community College. She has performed with the Vancouver Opera Chorus, Vancouver Chamber Chorale and Theatre Royal at Barkerville, B.C.

Margaret is currently in her second year as director of music at St. Albert United Church. She coordinates all of the music programs offered and directs the Senior Choir.

Donna Grason

Donna Grason is an Elementary School teacher in the inner city of Edmonton. She has a passion for children, music, and sharing her faith with others. Donna is on staff as our organist/pianist. She has extensive experience in the United Church as a music leader for workshops and conferences.

Donna works with our Music Director, Margaret Ward-Jack, accompanies the Senior Choir, and provides music leadership for Sunday morning worship. Donna also plays for weddings and funerals as time in her schedule allows.

Rita Jensen

Rita Jensen is our Administrative Assistant. She is the friendly voice on the phone and the one to see for all your church bookings. Rita prepares all the worship bulletins for Sunday morning worship, as well as for weddings and funerals. She enjoys the creative challenge of producing our Grapevine newsletter each week and she helps other staff in promoting upcoming events.