Our Staff

Welcome! Peace and Joy to you in name of Jesus Christ!

I am so glad you are here, exploring what our wonderful faith community at The Presbyterian Church at Shrewsbury is all about. Let me share a little about myself and my vision for leadership here.

As a pastor, I care deeply about creating a welcoming church environment for those with big doubts and deep questions, for those disillusioned by a previous church experience, and for those who are seeking a safe and affirming space to explore and grow in their Christian faith.

As a disciple of Christ, I believe we are called to be out in the world, putting the faith we nurture into action through social witness, charity, and community outreach. We are the hands and feet of Christ.

As a preacher and teacher, I am passionate about bringing the Bible to life for those who struggle relating to our ancient sacred texts. Holy Scripture anchors us in truth and hope, but not when weaponized, so even after 20 years of committed study, I still approach it with humility and prayer that the true Word of God may reveal itself. I believe in servant leadership, gentle shepherding, and bringing creativity and joy into our spiritual lives.

My personal spirituality is rooted deeply in the power of God's Holy Spirit to transform the world one person at a time by bringing to fruition the hope of the Gospel of Jesus Christ. The hope of the Gospel is full and abundant life for all people, everywhere - not only in the eternal life to come, but even more powerfully in the redemption and resurrection of our lives here and now.

How is it with your soul? I welcome the honor of hearing your story, arranging a visit to the church, and helping connect you with our people and some of our many group and activities. 

I previously served as pastor to Sandusky Presbyterian Church and the First Presbyterian Church of Yale, in Michigan, a joint call. Prior to that, my ministry experience included hospital chaplaincy, music ministry, and leadership as Ruling Elder and Deacon. I earned my Master of Divinity at Princeton Theological Seminary and Bachelor of Music in piano performance at The College of Wooster. I am a lover of crafting, coffee, and music, best enjoyed with others. I dabble in growing flowers. I also play viola in the Monmouth Symphony Orchestra, and have recently picked up Ukulele!

Marcello Velame holds an undergraduate degree from Westminster Choir College in Princeton, NJ where he was awarded the Alexander McCurdy Organ Scholarship. He also studied at Julliard School of Music. He has appeared as guest conductor at the Royal Conservatory of Music in Toronto, Canada and he has sung under the direction of acclaimed conductors Robert Shaw, Kurt Masur, and Wolfgang Sawallisch.

Marcello has conducted major choral and orchestral works, both in and outside the church. He has also prepared choral works such as Beethoven Mass in C for performances at Carnegie Hall and conducted the ALLEGRO chorus in performances in several venues in New Jersey. Marcello is also a music teacher at Shark River Elementary School. 

Sherri Laberdee leads our ministry with children, youth, and their families. Sherri is a Certified Christian Educator, passionate about nurturing children and youth with the love and encouragement of God. She oversees our Sunday School program, coordinating with the teachers, ensuring a safe, fun, and Christ-centered learning environment. She organizes our new Wednesday evening Kidz Club, and special seasonal activities. Sherri is also here to support parents in raising their children in the faith amidst many competing priorities.

Sherri has served in this role since 2024, but served in a very similar role as Director of Christian Education for many years prior here at PCAS. 

Diane Suarez is our fabulous Office Administrator. She's the friendly and helpful person directing your calls and emails and greeting you when you stop by the church office. Diane keeps us very well organized, taking care of many behind-the-scenes tasks administratively supporting our Pastor, Elders, Committees, and Members.

Diane is a long-time church member and a Deacon. She raised her children in the church, and has done a bit of everything in her many committed years at PCAS. 

Diane is also yoga instructor, teaching a  gentle yoga class in our Church House on Thursdays 10:45 – 11:45.  The class is free and open to all.  Please come! 

If you stop by the church office in person, most likely you will be greeted by Diane's two Wheaten terriers, Molly and Maisy.