Consistory
The consistory is the governing body of the local church and consists of Ministers, Elders and Deacons. These offices are ones of servanthood and service. The consistory provides for the welfare of the church, stewardship of property and finance, and the spiritual benefit and growth of all people.
Together with the minister, Elders supervise the church. They are set apart for a ministry of watchful and responsible care for all matters relating to the welfare and good order of our congregation. Deacons are set apart for a ministry of mercy, service, and outreach. They gather gifts and offerings, care for them faithfully, and distribute them with wisdom and compassion to persons in need and for purposes that advance God’s work. Deacons visit and comfort the distressed, provide for whatever necessities may arise, and assist the congregation at services of worship.
Our Elders:
Chris Cantwell joined the Greenpoint Church six years ago. A professional actor and graphic artist, Chris helps develop our marketing and outreach. Chris is passionate about issues related to caring for God’s creation. He spends a lot of time climbing mountains in the summer and skiing down them in the winter. Chris has some of his most profound spiritual moments while biking to work and even tries to forgive taxi drivers who cut him off.
Earl Kallemeyn is passionate about letterpress printing, polar swimming and the mystery of God. He credits his Christian Reformed education for instilling in him a love of theology and an appreciation for viewing the creation of art as a spiritual discipline.
Rob Kendt grew up in the Missouri Synod Lutheran Church and joined the Greenpoint Church last year. He is a musician and theater critic, with his reviews appearing in such venerable publications as the New York Times. In true New York fashion, Rob discovered he recognized Chris Cantwell from one of his plays. Rob works at American Theater Magazine, in his spare time he writes and arranges music and plays in the Milton Street Revival Band.
Our Deacons:
Christina Chestnut [bio coming]
Jan Bridgers is a visual artist with a significant body of work, including a series of portraits she painted of congregants from the Greenpoint Church. Originally from the South, Jan grew up in the Southern Baptist tradition, but has adjusted reasonably well to New York living.
Rachael Benjamin is a social worker with a wealth of knowledge about social service agencies in New York City. She currently works as a mental health counselor and is extremely involved in establishing our soup kitchen and food pantry ministry. Rachael also plays in the Milton Street Revival Band and coordinates our monthly Music on Milton series.
Great Consistory – Ordained elders no longer actively serving on consistory:
Grace Bayley has been a member of the Greenpoint Church since the mid-1970s and joined the church after the Cornerstone Methodist Church closed. Grace worked as a public health nurse for the City of New York and will be the first to tell you she’s “seen it all.” But the most important thing she’s seen is God’s remarkable ability to provide healing and wholeness, even in the midst of the most difficult situations.
Irene Blankschen was baptized as a child by Rev. Benson at the Greenpoint Reformed Church. Over the years, she has faithfully worked to maintain the church and currently serves as the clerk of the consistory. Irene is well known for her beautiful singing voice, which keeps us all on key, and for ensuring that everyone’s birthday is celebrated with a cake and a song.
Ruth Blankschen