Drew Watson

It is hard to put into words the excitement I have to be the next pastor at Neal Ave! Originally from Pickerington, I grew up Methodist at Peace UMC and continued my involvement with the Methodist church throughout my college years and beyond in various missions both here and abroad with Church of the Messiah in Westerville. Since graduating college my professional career has been in insurance. I earned a few professional designations and my MBA, but throughout it nothing brought me the joy I experienced from being in church and serving in missions. Once COVID happened I took a step back and decided to take my faith more seriously and found myself deeply passionate for learning about the Gospel and wanting to share it which led me to begin this journey into ministry.

My wife, Erin, and I met at Otterbein University in 2014, married in 2018, and now have two boys: Bennett (almost 3 years old) and Lucas (3 months old). I studied economics and got my MBA at the University of Cincinnati while Erin is a physician assistant in neurosurgery at Grant hospital. But, in this move to Newark she is taking a position in urgent care in Zanesville. Erin and I are so appreciative of the warm welcome we received from the people we met at Neal Ave when we were introduced. They immediately made us feel like part of a family.

I am going to begin seminary school in August to begin the path to become ordained. I am new to the whole world of ministry and am looking forward to growing and learning with everyone in the church and in school. I have picked up a few ideas from my time at Church of the Messiah, but I come to you with an open mind on how to best worship God, serve our church, and serve the community. What I do bring with me is energy and excitement about faith and scripture, a commitment to family, and a focus on missions. It is an honor to be able to lead this congregation in worship and I truly believe there is tremendous potential for our future.

Randy Spiker

Bio pending

Susan Spiker

Bio pending

Anna Murcko

In addition to her duties as Music Director, Anna is a middle school choir director in the Olentangy Local School District. She is currently on the artist roster for the Lancaster Chorale; Central Ohio’s premiere choral chamber ensemble. She earned a Master of Music in Choral Conducting and Artist Diploma in Vocal Performance from Bowling Green State University in 2023, and also holds a Bachelor’s degree in Music Education from Youngstown State University. 

Laura Atherton

Bio pending

Mary Ellen Strahm

Mary Ellen Strahm, as a member of Neal Avenue UMC, is the organist. She has been a church organist since she was a freshman in high school. The organ, which Mary Ellen plays, is named Katala Lou. Katala stands for Dr. Katala Williams, organ professor at The University of Arkansas and The College of the Ozarks. Lou stands for Mrs. Lou Welborn, organist at Lamar Methodist Church, Lamar, Arkansas.

Elward Smith

Bio pending

Nick Wright

I am a full time Elementary School Principal and previously worked for Columbus City Schools as an elementary teacher. I am the proud parent of four boys, Kody, Collin, Jaxson, and Emmett. When we are not busy with school, and sports we love to spend time visiting the Metroparks in Columbus, and traveling. I grew up attending Neal Ave UMC, and am excited to help bring change and growth to our youth and family ministries. I am excited to partner with you on your family’s faith journey. 

Patti Rader

I am a member of Neal Avenue UMC and have been blessed to serve God and this church as the Office Manager for 5 years in August. I have a Bachelor of Arts Degree from Ohio Christian University in Leadership & Ministry, so I am grateful for the opportunity to use what I have learned.

My husband, James, and I have been married for 30 years and were actually married at Neal Avenue UMC by his father who was the pastor at the time. We have 3 grown children; Megan, 28; Matthew, 25; and Emily, 23. Emily was married last August and she and her husband live in Boston where she graduated from the Boston Conservatory. She is now employed full-time at the Conservatory.

I have served in various ministries within the church, but my favorite way to serve is through outreach or missions. I love that I get to come to work each day and serve God and this church.

Molly Smith

Bio pending

Dave Rauch

Bio pending