How does one find out more about St. Mark’s UMC?

You may call the Church office at (540) 992-3030, or contact any of our Church staff directly:

Pastor: Rev. Dave Rochford

Bio: A native of Fairfax Co. VA, Dave came to us in July 2005 from Williamsburg UMC, Williamsburg, VA. A graduate of Davidson College, the University of Texas and Duke University (The Divinity School), Dave enjoys US history, hiking and obscure facts of all kinds. His wife, Dr. Lisa G. Rochford, is a clinical child psychologist in Salem. They have two young sons and an exhaustive knowledge of Lego Star Wars.

Director of Youth Ministries: Erin Lafex

Bio: A Connecticut native whom we’d never call a Yankee, Erin came to us from Hamden CT (near North Haven) to become our new Director of Youth and Outreach Ministries in January 2011. A graduate of Eastern Nazarene College (Quincy MA) with a degree in Religion, Erin brings a wealth of experience in Youth ministry, church development, and urban mission to our team. Baptized in the Roman Catholic tradition, Erin’s spiritual journey has taken her to the Assemblies of God and Church of the Nazarene traditions – and since 2007, has called the United Methodist Church her home. Erin is often found with guitar in tow, and can talk fluently with her hands (using ASL!).

Director of Children's and Family Ministries: Lee Ann Critz

Bio: Lee Ann is part-time Director of Children's and Family Ministries at St. Mark's and a life-long member of the United Methodist Church. A graduate of the University of Richmond, Lee Ann is also the former Director of St. Anne's Episcopal Day School in Salem. She and her husband, Blake, have been married twenty-six years and have two grown children, Sara and Ben. Lee Ann enjoys playing the piano and was a proud Band Mom for nine years.

Director of Music Ministries: Deborah Wiley

Bio: Born in Roanoke County and raised there and in Botetourt, Deborah has spent her life in the love of music. With a BA and an MA from Radford University, Deborah has headed music ministry in the Wesleyan, Brethren, Baptist and most recently United Methodist traditions. In her ‘spare time’ she is the Choral Director for Salem High School.

Assistant Director of Music: Michele Richardson

Bio: Michele has a Bachelor's Degree in Music Education from Longwood University. She most recently served as pianist for East Gate Church of the Nazarene in Roanoke, VA, and is currently a part-time professional clown as well as a private piano teacher. She has been married for 10 years to Taylor Richardson and they have two sons, David and Eli, with whom they enjoy camping and doing most anything that involves spending time outdoors.

How does one join St. Mark’s?

Perhaps you have been visiting St. Mark’s and would like to know why we worship the way we do. Maybe you are a life-long Presbyterian or Baptist, and have wondered whether life as a Methodist would agree with you! All these wonderings are at the core of our Newcomers’ Class, which meets on Sunday mornings during the Sunday School hour. On a quarterly basis, this six-session class introduces people to Methodism and asks the question: do people join denominations anymore, or is it really just about the local church? Does it matter? We also take the opportunity to explore some of the many ministries at St. Mark’s and get to know each other better. With any question, call Rev. Dave at 992-3030. The Class is open to all, and recommended to all those considering joining St. Mark’s. Child care is provided.