Rev. Jason Bense is a Hoosier native who has found a home in Sacramento serving the church. In addition to urban ministry, ecumenical and interfaith relationships, and regularly preaching and leading worship, he is also a US Air Force Reserve Chaplain. A graduate of Valparariso University and the Lutheran School of Theology of Chicago, his life has been one of service to the church and community. When he’s not working with his congregations, organizations, or on-base, he enjoys running and biking along the American River Parkway. He’s never met a sunny day he didn’t like.
Michael Kravchuk is the Minister of Music for both Gethsemane Lutheran Church and Lutheran Church of Our Redeemer. Michael grew up in a Pentecostal Christian family with parents who fled the Soviet Union in 1990, and now lives in Sacramento with his wife and children. He has been a part of church music programs since the age of 15; as a graduate of Sacramento State, Michael is an organist, pianist, violinist, teacher, composer, music director and book publisher.
Lisa Agoitia is the Parish Administrator for both Gethsemane Lutheran Church and Lutheran Church of Our Redeemer. During all that she has been with the church through all the challenges and blessings–for almost two decades. She is a Coast Guard Veteran and was a boarding officer and first mate with over 300 rescues during her time in the USCG. Also served as an independent duty administrator at Search and Rescue Stations from the East coast to the West coast.
LeslieAnn Grace is the Director of Outreach for both Lutheran Church of Our Redeemer and Gethsemane Lutheran Church. A graduate of University of California Davis and American River College, LeslieAnn is an experienced event planner with a diverse background in legal studies, administrative work, and promotional event staffing. She weaves social connections throughout the church and community, and is always looking for avenues of progress for the congregations. During her off-time, LeslieAnn enjoys playing video games, being outdoors, her cats, and cooking.
Richard Rosen is the Sexton at Gethsemane Lutheran Church. After years of traveling in Southeast Asia and working as a Spa Director in Bali, Richard converted to Christianity after meeting his wife Hokali, who came from an all-Christian village in Northern India. The two of them care for the community in many ways, including routinely maintaining the church grounds.