Staff

Rector

The Rev. Eric Williams

  Send Email  •  (248)651-6188

A native of Los Angeles, Eric was called to St. Philip's in January 2017. A priest for 30 years, he has served congregations in Western Massachusetts, Western New York, and the Diocese of Michigan, where he also served as Executive Director of the Whitaker Institute. He received his BA from Williams College in 1986 and his MDiv from the General Theological Seminary in 1992. He is married to the Rev. Susan Anslow Williams and they have two grown daughters. He enjoys bicycling, running (with his dog Sebby), singing, and crossword puzzles.




Contemplative Franciscan Priest Associate

Fr. John Meulendyk

  Send Email  •  (248)651-6188

John Meulendyk, OFC has served as a Franciscan Priest Associate since 2019/   He is a graduate of Calvin College & Seminary (A.B), Marygrove College (M.A.), The Lutheran Theological Seminary at Philadelphia (M.Div.), and the Ecumenical Theological Seminary (D.Min.).  As a spiritual mentor within the Order of the Franciscans of the Holy Cross, Fr. John has studied with Richard Rohr, OFM who is reclaiming the origins of a Universal Christ.  Fr. John’s interest is in alternative views of God as expressed by the early church and what impact those views can have on creating people who "walk humbly, act justly, and love mercy."  (Micah 6:8)




Director of Religious Education

Bev Vella

  Send Email  •  (248)651-6188

Bev joined our staff in August of 2021 as Director of Religious Education.  She brings over 8 years of experience in teaching religious classes.  In addition, Bev currently works full-time as a Para Educator in an Elementary school.  Happily married to her husband Gary, they have 3 adult children.  When not spending time in education, she enjoys biking, lifting weights, hiking, walking and spending time in nature.  Bev is excited to grow the children's program and we couldn't be happier to have her with us.  




Administrative Assistant

Irene Sanchez

  Send Email  •  (248)651-6188

Irene Sanchez joined our staff in April 2021.  In addition to managing the office and its daily requirements, she also manages our FB page and helps to keep our website updated.  An experienced Office Administrator, her career includes service at several other parishes and in the corporate world. Along with degrees in Photography and Health Sciences, she is a 2nd level Sommelier. Married with 4 children and 3 grandchildren, her and her husband make their home in Pontiac.  When not in the office, she is an avid DIYer, kayaker and hiker with a love for travel and adventure. 




Director of Music

Jim Bain

  Send Email  •  (248)651-6188



Finance Administrator

Jayne Zellers

  Send Email  •  (248)651-6188

Jayne Zeller comes to us with loads of experience in the world of finance.  We are so happy to welcome her as the newest addition to the St. Philip's Staff Family.  She is in the office on Wednesdays and ready to help and answer any questions you may have.  




Sexton

Brian Vlaming

(248)651-6188

Brian has served as our Sexton (custodian) for many years.  He is the reason our building sparkles, shines and is always a safe place to worship.  A born again child of God, he serves with all his heart.  When Brian isn't busy keeping us scrubbed up, he loves being in the outdoors. 




Contents © 2023 St. Philip's Episcopal Church • Church Website Builder by mychurchwebsite.netPrivacy Policy