For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God— not by works, so that no one can boast.
Ephesians 2:8-9

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One Church, One Spirit: Praying for Christian Unity

Greetings from Pastor Khader:

Week of Prayer for Christian Unity

Dear beloved in Christ,

“Out of the depths I cry to you, O Lord. Lord, hear my voice.” These words from Psalm 130 carry the ache of the human soul. They’re not whispered—they’re cried. And in them, we hear the voice of a Church longing not only for God’s mercy, but for healing among its members.

From January 18 to 25, we join Christians around the world in the Week of Prayer for Christian Unity. We set aside this time each year to remember Jesus’ own prayer for his followers:

That they may all be one… so that the world may believe.”(John 17:21)

That prayer still echoes. It echoes in divided hearts, in fractured churches, in weary communities that long to be whole. It’s not just a dream—it’s a calling. And it’s not unity for unity’s sake. It’s unity rooted in Christ. Unity that comes through reconciliation, humility, and love.

Last year, we stood shoulder to shoulder with Catholics, Orthodox, Anglicans, Episcopalians, and other Christian siblings in Christ to mark 500 years since the Reformation—not as a celebration of division, but as a renewed commitment to healing. I remember the Synod’s service at the Cathedral of St. John the Divine—how leaders from across denominations gathered at the baptismal font, and how the congregation was sprinkled with water in remembrance of the waters that bind us together.
One baptism. One body. One hope. One Lord.

It was more than symbolic. It was sacramental. Because baptism is not just personal—it’s communal. We are not baptized into silos, but into Christ, and into each other.

As Lutherans, we hold fast to the power of grace, the centrality of the Word, and the life-giving gifts of the sacraments. These are not barriers to unity—they’re bridges. When we walk those bridges toward one another, we begin to see that our unity doesn’t erase our differences—but it does demand we carry them with love.

The Apostle Paul writes in Ephesians:

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I beg you to lead a life worthy of the calling you have received— with all humility and gentleness, with patience, bearing with one another in love, making every effort to maintain the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace.” (Ephesians 4:1–3)

Friends, unity is not uniformity. It’s not agreement on every doctrine or tradition. Unity is the Spirit’s work among us, when we show up with patience, speak truth in love, and trust that the Church belongs to Christ—not to us.

So let’s keep praying for unity—not just with our lips, but with our lives. Let’s keep showing up to the table, listening with grace, and remembering the water that washed over us all—the same water, the same promise, the same Christ.

May this week of prayer remind us of who we are: One Church. One Body. One Spirit. In Christ, for the sake of the world.

In Christ,
Rev. Khader Khalilia

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Pastor Khader Khalilia

Lead Pastor

Pastor Khader Khalilia was born and raised in Bethlehem, Palestine, the very town where Jesus was born. He was baptized and nurtured in the Greek Orthodox tradition, where he was shaped by the richness of ancient liturgy and sacramental life. Over time, he was drawn to Lutheran theology, particularly its evangelical catholic expression, grounded in the Word, the sacraments, and the theology of the cross.

He attended Talitha Kumi Lutheran School and earned a Bachelor's degree in Biblical Studies and Christian education from Bethlehem Bible College. In 2005, he was invited by the Evangelica Lutheran Church in America to continue his theological education. He received his Master of Divinity from Pacific Lutheran Theological Seminary in Berkeley, California, and was ordained into the ministry of Word and Sacrament in January 2009.
Pastor Khader first served as Associate Pastor of St. Andrew's Lutheran Church in San Mateo.

California. In October 2013, he was called to serve as Pastor of Grace Lutheran Church in Brooklyn, where he continues to lead the congregation in worship, preaching, and community ministry with joy and dedication.

He currently serves as Dean of the Southwest Brooklyn Lutheran Conference. Pastor Khader Khalilia represents the Metropolitan New York Synod on the New York Council of Churches, and serves on the Board of the Arab American Association of New York. He is actively engaged in several local and national organizations, contributing his voice to ecumenical and interfaith dialogue.

Pastor Khader is passionate about proclaiming Christ crucified and risen, celebrating the sacramental life of the Church, and building bridges of justice, compassion, and understanding among people of different cultures and faiths.

He also leads regular pilgrimage trips to the Holy Land, inviting others to walk where Jesus walked and to encounter Scripture in new and transformative ways.
He proudly calls Brooklyn home and finds deep joy in its vibrant, diverse, and resilient community. In his free time, he enjoys reading, cooking, working out, biking, and sharing meals and stories with family and friends.

Come and be part of the Grace community, where faith is lived, love is shared, and all are welcome.

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Charbel Zgheib

Salam Arabic Lutheran Pastor

At Grace Lutheran Church of Brooklyn, we are blessed to have Rev. Charbel Zgheib as our Pastor of Salam Arabic Ministry. Rev. Zgheib also founded Salam Radio Station, the first Arabic online ecumenical radio platform, and serves as pastor of Salam Arabic Church. Born and raised in Lebanon, his Catholic upbringing and deep commitment to justice, compassion, and human dignity shape his ministry every day.

With over twenty years of experience, Rev. Zgheib is a mission developer and church planter within the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America. He is passionate about building inclusive faith communities that nurture spiritual resilience. He also champions holistic mental health care, especially for vulnerable and frontline populations.

Rev. Zgheib's academic journey reflects his commitment to both faith and psychology. He earned a Master's in Clinical Social Psychology from the Lebanese University in 2007, followed by a Master's in Theological and Pastoral Studies from Antonine University in 2010. He graduated from Pacific Lutheran Theological Seminary in 2020. His education and ministry experience span Lebanon, Syria, and the United States, bringing a truly global and multicultural perspective to his work.

Throughout his career, Rev. Zgheib has led meaningful programs for organizations like ABAAD MAAN Foundation, and the Justice and Mercy Association. He has developed and managed initiatives focused on gender equality, interfaith cooperation, prison reform, and psychosocial care. His work with the United Nations and various non-governmental organizations includes training, counseling, and program management-equipping frontliners with trauma-informed care, self-care, and community healing strategies.

In addition to his ministry and humanitarian work, Rev. Zgheib has over 20 years of media experience. He has hosted impactful talk shows on Voice of Charity and Charity TV in Lebanon, sharing messages of hope and faith. Fluent in Arabic and English, and French, he brings a unique blend of spiritual depth, clinical insight and cultural understanding to every aspect of his ministry. Whether preaching, counseling, or serving on the front lines of humanitarian efforts, Rev. Zgheib’s work is always guided by a heartfelt commitment to faith, justice and human dignity.

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Mary Masterson

Administrative Assistant

Mary is the steady hand behind the scenes at Grace Lutheran Church of Brooklyn. As our Administrative Assistant, she manages communications, prepares bulletins, coordinates the Pastor’s schedule, and handles bookkeeping. Her attention to detail helps ensure that the daily rhythms of church life run smoothly.

Her quiet dedication supports the heart of our community. By tending to the practical needs of the church, Mary creates space for worship, fellowship, and ministry to flourish. Her work may often go unnoticed, but its impact is felt in every part of our shared life.

You won’t find her photo here. Mary prefers to stay out of the spotlight. But if you’ve visited Grace Lutheran recently, you’ve likely seen her smile, received her help, or simply experienced how well everything runs.

With grace and consistency, Mary helps hold our community together. Her presence is a quiet strength, reminding us that every role, whether visible or behind the scenes, is part of the sacred work of building a church where all are welcome.

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Leticia Milla

Director of Youth

Leticia Milla brings energy, creativity, and deep compassion to her role as Youth Director at Grace Lutheran Church of Brooklyn. She also serves as Communications Assistant for the Metropolitan New York Synod, helping share stories that connect and inspire across the wider church.

Originally from Brazil and now living in New York City, Leticia brings a global perspective shaped by her experiences in Brazil, the United States, and Germany. Her passion for youth ministry is rooted in years of leadership work that centers young voices and nurtures their faith journeys.

Leticia holds degrees in Church Music and Religion, and her background as a musician continues to shape her creative and relational approach to ministry. Whether she’s leading worship, planning youth gatherings, or uplifting others through communications work, Leticia helps build inclusive spaces grounded in grace, empathy, and the Gospel.

At Grace Lutheran, she helps young people feel seen and supported, guiding them to grow in faith and leadership. Her work reminds us that ministry is both local and global, and that community can be woven across cultures, languages, and generations.

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Pedro Acevedo

Building Care Manager

Pedro cares for the space we call home with dedication and steady hands. As Building Care Manager at Grace Lutheran Church of Brooklyn, he helps ensure that our church remains a safe, welcoming place for worship, community, and service.

From preparing the sanctuary to maintaining the building’s daily needs, Pedro’s work supports everything we do together. His attention to detail and quiet presence make a difference that’s felt by everyone who walks through our doors.

Pedro may not always be in the spotlight, but his care is woven into every corner of our space. He helps create an environment where people can gather, connect, and grow in faith.

In every task, Pedro reflects the grace we strive to live by. His steady presence is a reminder that behind every vibrant church is someone making sure the lights are on, the doors are open, and the space is ready for all.

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Kirsten d'Aquino

Music Director

Kirsten D’Aquino brings artistry, dedication, and deep faith to her role as Music Director at Grace Lutheran Church of Brooklyn, a position she has held since the early 1990s. A gifted organist and vocalist, Kirsten has shaped the musical life of our congregation for over three decades, enriching worship through her thoughtful leadership and exceptional musicianship.

A graduate of The Juilliard School with both bachelor’s and master’s degrees in organ performance, Kirsten joined the Grace Lutheran community early in her career. She made Brooklyn home, raising a family while cultivating a ministry of music that has inspired generations.

Beyond her work at Grace, Kirsten has served in multiple musical roles across New York City. She founded and directed a volunteer choir at Holy Innocents, played for midweek Latin Masses, and performed in renowned venues including Alice Tully Hall, St. John the Divine, and St. Patrick’s Cathedral. Her ministry has also extended to Washington, D.C., where she organized music for Latin Masses during the March for Life at St. Mary, Mother of God.

Kirsten is a member of The Renaissance Street Singers and continues to explore new creative paths. She is currently preparing for an operatic role in Monteverdi’s Orfeo, expanding her expression of sacred and classical music.

Rooted in a lifelong faith, Kirsten sees her musical gifts as a way to grow spiritually and help others do the same. Whether she is leading hymns on Sunday morning or singing in the community, her work reflects a passion for beauty, reverence, and service.

Originally from Long Island, Kirsten has lived in New York her entire life. Alongside her love for music and her devotion to her children, she finds joy in cooking, gardening, and cultivating beauty in all areas of life.

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Celina Randazzo

Cantor

Celina Randazzo brings passion, artistry, and a blossoming international career to her role as cantor at Grace Lutheran Church of Brooklyn. Her versatile voice and dynamic performances enrich our worship and music ministry, connecting classical opera with community expression.

Currently a Young Artist at OperUs Young Artist Academy in Trieste, Italy, Celina prepares to perform at the historic Palazzo Gopcevich in 2025. Her repertoire spans from bel canto arias to contemporary works, reflecting her broad musical interests and deep commitment to her craft.

Celina earned her Bachelor of Music in Vocal Performance, cum laude, from CUNY Queens College’s Aaron Copland School of Music. Her operatic roles include Gretel in Hänsel und Gretel, Flora in The Turn of the Screw, Valencienne in The Merry Widow, and Lisette in La rondine. She has also been a featured soloist in concerts and galas, performing arias from La traviata, La bohème, and other beloved works.

Her early training at the Frank Sinatra School of the Arts included leading roles such as Christine Daaé in The Phantom of the Opera and Velma Von Tussle in Hairspray. She has appeared on prestigious New York stages including Carnegie Hall, Radio City Music Hall, and Madison Square Garden, and has performed the National Anthem for major league baseball teams.

At Grace Lutheran, Celina’s artistry helps build a vibrant and inspiring music ministry grounded in grace and community. Her journey reminds us that music is a bridge connecting tradition, culture, and faith across generations.

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Christina Swanson

Cantor

Christina Swanson brings versatility, creativity, and passion to her role as a cantor at Grace Lutheran Church of Brooklyn. Equally at home in opera, musical theater, concert, and performance art, Christina enriches worship with her dynamic voice and artistic spirit.

Based in New York City, Christina’s broad experience spans stages large and small. She recently appeared in a Theatre Row reading of The Dressmaker’s Story and has performed with arts organizations including Utah Festival Opera, Lakeland Symphony Orchestra, Opera MODO, Hudson River Opera, and the Oratorio Society of New Jersey. As a dedicated chorister, she is on the roster of the New York Philharmonic Chorus and the Choral Chameleon Ensemble.

Christina co-founded Killer Queen Opera, an emerging company supported by the Brooklyn Arts Council and the Alliance of Resident Theaters. She produces chamber operas and cabarets, and recently premiered an original performance art piece, Where My Grandmothers Live in My Body, at the Spark Theater Festival in NYC.

She holds a Bachelor of Music in Vocal Performance from the University of Michigan and a Master of Music in Vocal Performance with an Advanced Pedagogy Certificate from New York University, where she also served as an Adjunct Voice Instructor. A passionate educator, Christina teaches Vocal Arts at City School of the Arts and maintains a private voice studio.

At Grace Lutheran, Christina’s voice and artistry help build an inclusive, vibrant space grounded in grace and community. Her work reminds us that music can connect us across genres, cultures, and generations, inviting all to experience the joy of worship and artistic expression.

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Jackson Emmett Schroeder

Cantor

Jackson Emmett Schroeder serves as cantor at Grace Lutheran Church of Brooklyn, where his voice brings grace, reverence, and depth to our worship services. With a gift for expressive performance and a heart for sacred music, Jackson helps create a worship experience that uplifts and inspires.

Originally from Atlanta, Georgia, Jackson now calls New York City home. He holds degrees from the Boston Conservatory at Berklee and McGill University’s Schulich School of Music. His performance highlights include roles such as Pirelli in Sweeney Todd, the Witch in Hänsel und Gretel, and solo appearances at Boston Symphony Hall.

His training has taken him around the world, including studies at the Franz Schubert Institute in Austria and an apprenticeship with Sarasota Opera, where he covered the role of Peppe in Pagliacci and performed in multiple mainstage productions.

A dedicated student of voice, Jackson has studied under renowned teachers Frank Kelley and John MacMaster. He brings that same care and excellence into every performance, whether on stage or in service of the church.

At Grace Lutheran, Jackson’s presence in our music ministry enriches the spiritual life of the congregation. His voice helps lead us into reflection, praise, and a deeper sense of connection with God and one another.

With energy, humility, and artistry, Jackson reminds us of the sacred power of music to stir the soul and strengthen our community.

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Collin Ellsbury

Cantor

Collin Ellsbury serves as cantor at Grace Lutheran Church of Brooklyn, where he uses his vocal talents to enrich worship and support the spiritual life of the congregation. Rooted deeply in his Lutheran faith, Collin embraces his role as a meaningful expression of community, worship, and service through music.

Alongside his ministry at Grace Lutheran, Collin serves as an Adjunct Instructor of Voice at New York University’s Steinhardt School. He is currently completing a Master of Music in Vocal Performance and a Post-Master’s Advanced Certificate in Vocal Pedagogy at NYU, while also pursuing a certificate in Media, Writing, and Communications. He holds dual bachelor’s degrees in Classical Vocal Music and Music Theater, as well as Philosophy and Political Science from Oklahoma City University.

Collin’s teaching philosophy centers on nurturing each student’s unique voice by blending technical skill with emotional authenticity. His diverse academic background informs his approach to vocal performance, pedagogy, and communication, allowing him to engage and inspire a wide range of learners with thoughtful and personalized instruction.

Through both his work at Grace Lutheran and in education, Collin seeks to inspire growth in artistry and faith. He fosters a welcoming space where music becomes a bridge between personal expression and spiritual connection. Motivated by a passion to serve, Collin continues to develop as both an educator and worship leader dedicated to nurturing others through his gifts.

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