Clergy & Staff
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Rector: The Reverend Brett R. Johnson
For surely I know the plans I have for you, says the Lord, plans for your welfare and not for harm, to give you a future with hope. (Jer. 29:11)
A person who models a life of hope and gratitude, Brett joined Emmanuel Episcopal Church as their 21st Rector on March 6, 2023. He leans into the truth that God cherishes every part of creation. He came to Emmanuel after serving at Christ Church (Andover, MA), St. Peter’s Episcopal Church (Beverly, MA), Parish of the Good Shepherd (Waban, MA), and All Saints Episcopal Church of the North Shore (Danvers, MA).
His call to the priesthood came while serving as a chaplain (Holy Family Hospital, Methuen, MA). Indeed, Brett loves pastoral care and chaplaincy.
He lives in North Reading with his husband and dog. He is surrounded by love and grateful to share that each one of us is beloved by God, too!
Organist and Music Director: Luca Cantone
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God used Luca’s experience as a chorister in the prestigious St. Thomas Choir School in New York to begin his formation as a musician dedicated to the Anglican tradition.
He graduated from Phillips Exeter Academy and Oberlin College, where he recently completed a major in Organ Performance and a minor in Economics.
In addition to serving as our Organist and Music Director, Luca will be employed with the C.B. Fisk organ-building company based out of Gloucester.
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Parish Administrator: Lisa Ventura
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Lisa joined the Emmanuel staff as Parish Administrator in March of 2020. She previously worked in the educational publishing industry for 33 years.
Lisa is an active member at Emmanuel serving on the Altar Guild, the Pastoral Care Committee, and volunteers with the Bread of Life and Horizon House ministries.
She is a Wakefield resident and a long-time volunteer for the American Cancer Society Relay For Life of Wakefield.
Financial Secretary: Mary Ann Nestor
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Mary has served as Emmanuel’s financial secretary and bookkeeper since 2005. Prior to that, she was our parish secretary.
Sexton: Doug Lloyd
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Doug Lloyd has served as Emmanuel Church’s sexton since 2014. He was previously sexton at Grace Church in Newton. He and his wife are active Episcopalians, attending St. Paul’s Church in Malden.