First United Methodist Church of Canoga Park
Who We Are
We have open minds, open hearts, and open doors.
We are a community of faith grounded in the unconditional love of God, affirming an inclusive love of Christ and belief in equality for all people. This love is shared through spiritual worship, exploration of the Bible, and fellowship with one another.
We are rooted in a Christian tradition, with a commitment to social justice, diversity, and a world in which all individuals are honored and connected. Our congregation celebrates diversity: different races, genders, single, coupled, and families; devoted Christians and seekers; interfaith couples and families, young and seasoned. All are welcome and we celebrate you!
Meet the Leadership Team
The church leadership is a dedicated team that works tirelessly to serve the congregation and fulfill the mission of the church, inspiring others to get involved.
Lead Pastor
Elaine Shin-Paull
I am an ordained clergy of the California-Pacific Annual Conference of The United Methodist Church. I am passionate about mentoring and helping others to grow and deepen their relationship with God. I am mostly passionate about the Torah and discovering the connection of it to the New Testament.
I bring a voice as a woman, a person of color, an Asian-American, married to a Jewish-American, and I bring both conservative and progressive Christian experiences to the table. I love preaching God’s Word.
Chairman, Administrative Committee
George Grengs
George Grengs is a long time San Fernando Valley resident who has attended Woodlake Elementary, Hale Middle School, and Taft High. After high school, he spent two years at Pierce College and transferred to UCLA where he graduated with a B.S. in Economics. He has worked for over 25 years at Valterra Products Inc., a supplier to the RV, Pool & Spa, and Plumbing Industries.
George joined the Church in the late 1990s, and the church family is now an important part of his life. He is currently the chair of the Administrative Committee, co-chair of the Stewardship committee and is active in many other areas of the church.
Lay Leader
Roger Johnson
Roger Johnson was born and raised in a quiet suburb of Chicago, Illinois. He graduated from Purdue University with a B.S. degree in electrical Engineering. His career started in Minneapolis, Minnesota with a growing computer company. After relocating several times with that company, he settled in the San Fernando Valley, becoming a test engineer in the
aerospace industry.
Roger enjoys musical hobbies, especially as a member of “The Men-In-Black”, a trio,
where he plays the autoharp and sings tenor. He also enjoys the game of golf but
understands that it is nothing more than an excuse for a walk in the pasture with friends.
Our Staff.
At our church, we have an amazing team of dedicated staff members who are committed to serving both the church and the local community. From organizing events and programs to leading worship services and providing guidance and support, our team is always here to help. We are honored to serve in this capacity and look forward to continuing to make a positive impact in the lives of those we meet.
Nathan Stephens
Music Director/Accompanist
Bernie Godwin
Audio/Video Operator
Jyl Lawrence
Administrative Assistant
Veronica Cabrera
Childcare
Preston Simpkin
Audio / Video Operator
Dante Wilson
Pre-Teen Ministry