We are all about people and we love everything about them! We reckon our team of staff and elders are made up of diverse, gifted, passionate and fun people who keep the cogs of our church turning. Scroll on through and meet our team…
Melissa Wilson
Senior Pastor
Melissa has been Senior Pastor as of 2022. She is passionate to see others knowing the love Jesus has for them. She is married to Myke and they have two gorgeous daughters Violet and Lily. She loves a good house plant, a great cup of tea, being near the sea and spending time with family and friends.
Meg Sheppard
Children & Families Pastor
Meg has worshipped with our Beachlands Baptist whanau since 2015, and has been involved in kids ministry in some capacity. She loves to see families and communities reached and touched by Jesus in both the practical and sacred ways. She is married to Gavin, has 3 lovely kids and a naughty but loveable golden retriever. Meg loves her family, good friends, food, coffee and always has a big pile of books on the bedside table waiting to be read.
Majella Aneru
Youth & Creative Pastor
Majella is passionate about youth and for them to find their place in the family of God. She is also our Creative Pastor and looks after all things media, musical and sound related. Her love for leading others in musical worship of God is at the very essence of who she is. Majella loves spending time with her family, going for walks on our beautiful coast and writing worship songs with the band she is part of – Alabaster Worship.
Sheryl Gielen
Church Manager
Sheryl has been living in Beachlands for 10+ years. She loves the beach, family, sunshine, coffee and making candles. Sheryl is married to Mike and they have two married adult children and 4 grandchildren. She loves the community on the coast and helping wherever is needed.
Tim Roper
Elder
Paula Andrews
Elder
Michael Drane
Elder
Ian Findlay
Elder
Brian Diprose
Elder
Michelle Templar
Accounts
Michelle is our accounts extraordinaire! Originally from South Africa, she has lived in Beachlands for 15 years. Michelle has two adult children and loves spending time with her family, going for walks on the coast and traveling around New Zealand. She is involved in our CAP ministry.
Ruth Riding
Media & Coms
Ruth has been part of the Beachlands community for 10 years. Her life is kept busy with 3 young children and you'll often find her in the garden, baking or drinking endless coffee.
