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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Loving God, Helping Others
and Serving our Community

A Sanctuary of Grace, A People of Light

Where Every Soul Finds a Place to Belong

Rooted in Sacred Story, Reaching with Open Arms

Walking in Faith, Bounded by Love, Guided by Grace

WHO WE ARE

Where Faith Flourishes,
Hope Abides

Rooted in Legacy, Rising in Faith

Grace Lutheran Church of Brooklyn is a Spirit-led congregation, born from the deep and faithful roots of Our Saviour’s Lutheran Church and Redeemer St. John Lutheran Church. Our story is one of unity, transformation, and hope. It is a sacred weaving of past and present, guiding us into a future filled with promise.

We carry forward the gifts of our legacy: our people, our places, our faith. We offer them in joyful service to a world in need of love. In a city that is ever-changing, our call remains the same. We are here to be a living witness of Christ’s grace and compassion in Brooklyn and beyond.

A Tapestry of Welcome

Our congregation reflects the beautiful diversity of this borough. Founded by immigrants, shaped by resilience, and bound together in Christ, we open our arms to all. We celebrate not just where we have come from but where we are going together.

Through worship, fellowship, and shared ministry, we are forming a vibrant, intergenerational community. Whether it is in Sunday worship, at the ELCA Youth Gathering, or around the table with neighbors and friends, we see God at work in every face and every story.

One Body, One Spirit, One Future

We worship together. We serve together. We dream together. What began as a collaboration between three congregations has grown into a single voice of hope and healing. As we share buildings and staff, we also share a vision. We are a church alive with the Spirit, grounded in love, and ready to respond to the needs of the world around us.

We believe in a church that bridges generations, cultures, and experiences. A church that welcomes your gifts, your story, your spirit.

Come be a part of what God is doing through us.

This is not just our story. It is yours too.

Our Purpose

We exist to bring hope and love in Christ to our neighbors by birthing new ways of being the church

Our Values

Diverse and inclusive
community

Discipling and raising
leaders of all ages

Liturgical and
sacramental worship.

Hope-filled
evangelism.

Belonging

Love is a key attribute in Christianity. The love of God is a prevalent concept both in the Old Testament and the New Testament.

Worship

We share God’s love in various ways in our homes, places of work, local community, and throughout the world.

Hospitality

When we speak of “worship,” we are referring to the life of congregation: attending worship services, creating music, honoring life.

Stedwardship

Church life means faith, relationship, discipline, service, responsibilities of church leaders and members, and much more.

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Grace Community Leadership

Our pastors serve as spiritual shepherds, guiding our congregation with wisdom, compassion, and a deep love for Christ. Rooted in Scripture and led by the Holy Spirit, they preach, teach, administer the sacraments, and walk alongside us through every season of life. Their leadership shapes not just our worship, but the heart of our community.

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 Evangelical 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, 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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Church Home Support Team

Behind the scenes and at the heart of our daily ministry, our administrative team keeps Grace Lutheran running smoothly. From managing communications and schedules to welcoming visitors and supporting staff, they serve with dedication and kindness, ensuring that every ministry thrives and every person feels at home.

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...

...Read More

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..

...Read More

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...

...Read More

Liturgical Music

Music is a vital expression of our worship and identity at Grace Lutheran Church of Brooklyn. Our liturgical music team leads with passion and purpose, helping us lift our voices in praise and prayer. Through hymns, anthems, and instrumental offerings, they create sacred spaces where hearts can open and faith can flourish.

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...

...Read More

Celina Randazzo
Cantor

Celina Randazzo is a Cantor at Grace Lutheran Church in Brooklyn, New York. She is also a New York City-based Lyric Coloratura Soprano with a passion for classical opera, musical theater, and...

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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...

...Read More

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...

...Read More

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...

...Read More

Redeemer St. John's Nursery School

Our nursery school team is dedicated to nurturing young hearts and minds in a safe, joyful, and faith-filled environment. With a deep sense of care and calling, they provide early childhood education rooted in love, creativity, and Christian values. Every child is seen as a gift and a blessing.

Holly Hooper
Nursey School Director

Ms. Holly serves as the Director of RSJ Nursery School and has been with RSJ since 2018. She holds a Master’s Degree with Dual Certification in Early Childhood Education and Students with Disabilities from Touro University. She enjoys helping RSJ’s littlest friends grow to love school, learn to be a good friend, and bravely explore the world around them. In her free time, she loves to travel, read, and spend as many days as possible at the beach.

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Kristen Wodecki
UPK Teacher

Ms. Kristen is the Lead Teacher for our PreK-4 classroom and has been with RSJ since 2019. Kristen holds a Master’s Degree in Early Childhood Education from Fordham University. Kristen’s attentive and caring heart encourage our PreK-4 children to grow and discover new strengths and interests. In her class, children learn through play while having fun. In her free time, she enjoys spending time with her family, reading thrillers, biking, hiking, and traveling.

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Vanessa Vega
3K Teacher

Ms. Vanessa is our lead 3-K Teacher. She holds a Master’s Degree with Dual Certification in Early Childhood Education and Students with Disabilities from Touro University. Since she joined our team in 2021, Vanessa’s warm and nurturing demeanor has created the ideal setting for our preschoolers to feel safe and positively interact with their environment and each other. When she’s not in the classroom, she cherishes spending time with her two young daughters. During the summer, planting and gardening bring her particular joy.

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Jennifer Shevorykin
3K Assistant Teacher

Ms. Jen has been with RSJ as the Assistant Teacher in the 3-K class since 2018. Her children’ also attended the program when they were younger. Her creativity and attention to detail are evident throughout the classroom. She keeps the children and classroom organized, clean, and on track. When not caring for children at school, she loves her extended family and taking her kids to explore new places.

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Kari Fitzsimmons
4PK Assistant Teacher

Ms. Kari has been the PreK-4 Assistant Teacher since the program’s inception in September 2014. When Kari was little, she also attended Redeemer St. John’s Nursery School! When she isn’t working with our students, Kari enjoys spending time with her family in Breezy Point and skiing in the winter in Windham, NY.

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Sveta Pedulla
Administrative Assistant

Ms. Sveta has long-time ties with the school, first as a parent, then helping as a substitute teacher in our classrooms. She joined our team as the School’s Office Coordinator in 2020. Sveta’s Master’s Degree in Business Accounting from Baruch ensures our school runs smoothly, keeps our records up to date and in compliance. She is usually busy with her family, raising her 5 children, but when she has free time she loves reading and doing photography.

...Read More

Get Involved

Being part of a church means connecting with others, growing spiritually, and using your gifts to serve. Explore the many opportunities available to become more engaged:

Worship Services

Join us for weekly worship on Sundays.

Ministries

Find out about the many ways you can serve through our ministries, including Youth Ministry, Outreach, Prayer, and more.

Volunteer Opportunities

There are many ways to serve within the church and the wider community, whether through helping with worship, volunteering for outreach, or participating in special events.
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Join our Grace Lutheran Church Brooklyn community by subscribing to our newsletter! Receive weekly insights, stories, and spiritual encouragement from Pastor Khader Khalilia, along with updates about church events, programs, and ways to get involved. Join the journey, growing in grace, faith, and fellowship.

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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.

    This will close in 0 seconds

    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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