Rev Aaron Gray

Pastor

Reverend Gray is a native of Denver, Colorado. A graduate of Regis College and the Iliff School Of Theology, Rev. Gray has been a United Methodist Pastor for twenty-five years and has served a variety of congregations from the plains of Colorado to inner city Denver.

A deep concern for community involvement, Rev. Gray has served on the Denver School Board and worked on issues around literacy and parent involvement in schools and well as supporting the role of teachers. Rev. Gray has been married to Lou An Gray since 1984. They have two sons, Ryan and Deshon. A passion for preaching, teaching, reading and walking; Rev. Gray is always available for listening, counseling and caring for the needs of others.

Suzanne Hatcliff

Administrative Assistant

Suzanne Hatcliff has been the Administrative Assistant at Wheat Ridge UMC since 1995. She grew up mainly in Kentucky and Minnesota as a PK (preacher’s kid), the second of four children. After graduating from high school in Lake City, Minnesota, she attended nursing school at Good Samaritan Hospital in Lexington, Kentucky, received her diploma in Nursing, then worked in that field for the next 10 years. In her spare time she enjoys reading and doing hand work. Suzanne has been a member of Wheat Ridge UMC since 1986, she sings in the Chancel Choir and rings handbells with the Jubilation Ringers.

Steve Mallinson

Traditional Worship Music Leader

Steve Mallinson received his Bachelor of Music degree from Millikin University in Decatur, Illinois and his Master of Music Degree from Northern Illinois University.   He has done additional graduate study at Northwestern University, The Vandercook College of Music and University of Washington in Seattle, among others.  He has studied choral and instrumental conducting with Maestro Daniel Barenbohm, Chicago Symphony, Dr. Paul Christiansen, St. Olaf College, and Howard Swann of Westminster Choir College.  Mr. Mallinson is the Associate Conductor of the Jefferson Symphony Orchestra and a founding member of the Timberline Brass Quintet.  His Church choir career began at Mt. Zion Presbyterian Church in Mt. Zion, Illinois.  He came to Wheat Ridge United Methodist Church in 1972. And is presently leading the choir at St. Andrew Lutheran Church in Arvada, CO as well as Wheat Ridge U.M.C.

Mr. Mallinson's goal is to provide the best in choral literature for the choir and congregation and have fun and good Christian fellowship at the same time.  In the past the Chancel Choir at Wheat Ridge U.M.C. has performed many major choral works with a small orchestra including John Rutter's "Gloria" and "Requiem, Handel's "Messiah" and the Faure "Requiem." The Wheat Ridge Choir was invited to sing at  "Sacred Music on the Prairie" in Cheyenne, Wyoming.

Steve has two living children, Kristin Lee and Stephen James and a granddaughter, Sarah Danielle.  He and his wife Terry, reside in Arvada, CO. He likes to Play golf, oil paint and being a grandfather to Sarah.

Helen Connolly

Organist

Helen Connolly has been a church organist for 35 years and has played at WRUMC since 1991. She is a graduate of Boise State University and a member of the American Guild of Organists and the Organ Historical Society.

Caroline Mallory

Director of Bell Choir

Caroline Mallory is a life-long member of Wheat Ridge UMC. She graduated from the University of Colorado receiving a Bachelor of Music Education and a Master of Music with an emphasis in Choral Literature and Conducting. She has been ringing handbells since 1983 and directing them since 1987. Caroline direct the Wheat Ridge UMC Jubilation Ringers and the Timberline Handbell Ensemble, Inc. She rings with the Rocky Mountain Ringers, Inc. Caroline is a member of the AGEHR, and has received the National AGEHR Level I Conductors recognition. She and members of the Wheat Ridge UMC Jubilation Ringers are actively involved in AGEHR guild activities and events on the local, state, area, national, and international level. Caroline retired from the Jefferson County Public Schools after serving 33 years as a music teacher in grades 1-12. Caroline also serves as the assistant church organist.

Terry Weimer

Director of Children's Day Preschool

I am the Director and classroom teacher of Children’s Day Preschool. I have run this program for the past 18 years. Our Preschool is licensed by the state and offers a two or three - ½ day program. Our program is a play-based curriculum and is a community outreach for the Wheat Ridge United Methodist Church. I have a 2-year Early Childhood degree along with Director certification. I also have 25 years experience in the Early Childhood field.

Tammy Danknich

Assistant Director of Children's Day Preschool

I am the Assistant Director and classroom teacher of Children’s Day Preschool. I have been with the program for 18 years. Our preschool provides a curriculum where children have the opportunity to learn through hands-on experiences. I have Director certification as well as 25 years experience in the Early Childhood field.

Laura Winberg

Treasurer

Laura joined the staff in 2005 as the Treasurer for Wheat Ridge United Methodist Church. She lives in Arvada with her husband and two children. Laura enjoys spending time with her family, bike riding and traveling. Laura has been a life long member of Wheat Ridge United Methodist Church.