Meet the Staff at Langley United Church

Minister of Word, Sacrament and Pastoral Care – The Rev. Scott Swanson

Born and raised here in the Lower Mainland, Scott received a Bachelor's degree from Western Washington University and a Master's degree from The University of Victoria before studying theology at the Vancouver School of Theology. Ordained in 1998, Scott worked in congregational ministry in Manitoba for four years before coming to Langley United in 2002.

Married to Tanya, together they have two children Emma and Sarah. Scott has traveled on three continents, and enjoys reading, movies, cooking, and playing the drums.

Music Director – Dr. Gregory Caisley

Pianist and collaborator, Greg has worked throughout Western Canada, playing and accompanying for 18 years. He has adjudicated numerous festivals, including the Alberta and Saskatchewan Provincial Music Festivals. In December 2003 he completed his Doctor of Musical Arts Degree in Keyboard Collaborative Arts at USC in Los Angeles where he was also a teaching assistant. In addition, he coached singers and instrumentalists for performance at Pasadena City College.

As well as being our Director of Music, Greg divides his time teaching here and in Edmonton, and during the summer months he is the Director of Keyboard Studies for MusiCamp Alberta; a summer music program for gifted music students from Alberta and British Columbia.

Staff person for Ministry with Children and Families – The Rev. Gabrielle Suedfeld

Gabrielle is a retired United Church minister who attends Langley United Church. She has served congregations in Hazelton, Ryerson, Gladwin Heights and Queens Avenue, and has also been minister of the Central Mainland Marine Ministry in Prince Rupert Presbytery. She has an M.Div. from VST, and works with the Native Ministries programme of VST as a tutor and in curriculum development. She has had many years of experience in creating Children's Church material and intergenerational worship.

Gabrielle has five grandchildren, and is also interested in home faith experiences. Her hobbies include gardening, quilting, history, and music.

Staff person for Ministry with Youth – David Nelson

David first began attending Langley United in September 1989 and was an active member of both the Junior and Senior Youth Groups. David became a member of LUC in 1997 when he was confirmed. He has also been an active participant of Fraser Presbytery YAYA. Since turning 19 David has been volunteering as a counselor for youth at numerous Fraser Presbytery YAYA events.

David completed his associate's degree in psychology from Kwantlen University College, and is continuing his education towards becoming an elementary school teacher. He also has experience working as a behavioural therapist with his cousin who is autistic.

David became the Youth Worker for LUC because he wanted today's youth to have a place to be with others that share their faith and have as much fun as he did when he was in youth group.

Administration – Jovana Ivanovic

Jovana joined Langley United Church staff in November 2007. She resides with her family in Langley City. Jovana holds a Bachelor of Music degree and actively gives private instruction in violin.