Staff
Pastor - The Rev. Heidi Neumark
I grew up in a suburban community in New Jersey, majored in English literature and creative writing, attended the Lutheran Theological Seminary at Philadelphia, as well as studying at an ecumenical seminary in Argentina, where I also worked with a human rights group. I also met my husband, Gregorio. I am fluent in Spanish.
I served as a pastor in New York City for forty years- twenty years in the South Bronx and twenty years on the Upper Westside of Manhattan where I also co-founded a shelter for unhoused, queer youth and young adults (Trinity Place Shelter). In addition to being a congregational pastor, I have taught in several seminaries. I love to write and am the author of three books.
Gregorio and I moved to Kingston, NY in June of 2023, directly across the street from our daughter Ana, her wife Katie, and our two sweet granddaughters. Our son Hans lives with his wife Abigail in Montana where she pastors an ELCA congregation. They have our grandson, Lazarus. Sadly, we don’t get to see him as often as the little girls, but thank God for Facetime! Although I retired from full-time ministry, I find that I still love serving among God’s people. I came to Immanuel in February of 2025 and am thrilled to be part of this loving and brave community of faith.
Deacon - Cathy Boyce
Cathy was raised in the Roman Catholic tradition and came into the Lutheran Church in 1986 after the death of her grandmother who was a life-long member of Immanuel. She entered the Synodical Diaconate program in 2000 where she completed her studies and a one year internship at the Lutheran Care center in Poughkeepsie, New York. She was Set Apart as a Synodical Deacon in the Metropolitan New York Synod in 2004 with a focus in ministry to the elderly, sick and homebound. She has been called to Immanuel as Deacon for the past 21 years.
Her other ministries include Assisting Minister, Altar Guild Member and Coordinator, and wherever else she is needed at Immanuel. She is also available for worship and preaching supply. Cathy is married, has two children, two grandchildren and one granddog. Her hobbies are gardening, crafting, and spending time with her grandchildren.
Director of Music - Deborah Nickerson
I was blessed to grow up in a household where both my parents were pastors. Music was a very important part of our lives and worship. I will always be grateful to my father of blessed memory, who encouraged me and allowed me to start playing in one of his churches at the age of twelve. Worshipping with the people of God is a great joy to my heart.
Buildings Manager - Richard Weidemann
Richard moved to Kingston from the Southeast fourteen years ago and began working here at that time. Besides his work, he is busy with two teenagers and loves cooking and hiking around the area. He enjoys keeping our historic buildings in good shape, learning the stories held by these walls, and relating to the congregation, community preschool and neighborhood.
