Meet Our Pastors and Staff
Pastor Joyce Wealand – Pastor
Joyce (she/her) is a pastor who believes that all people hold the Divine’s light within. And for her, all truly means all. Her favorite moments as a pastor are when she’s engaged in conversation with people who have questions and are exploring new aspects of their faith understanding.
Joyce brings experience in corporate business, a love of intergenerational connections, a lifelong history in Outdoor Ministries and church camps, including overseeing two camping and retreat centers, and a passion for Social Justice. Ordained in the United Church of Christ, Joyce is eager to support the growing and active partnership that is emerging between the Ohio Region of the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) and the Heartland Conference of the United Church of Christ.
With a history in our community, Joyce graduated from Dublin Coffman High School (back when it was simply Dublin High School), Heidelberg University (back when it was Heidelberg College) , and the Methodist Theological School in Ohio (as it transitioned from being MTHSCO to MTSO). Her experience with transitions, both in her professional life and her personal life, have equipped her to approach new circumstances with curiosity and excitement.
Joyce enjoys spending time with her kids and grandkids, loves to read, and is enjoying learning to play pickleball. And while Joyce is an avid Buckeye fan, she does believe that no matter what sports team you support, you’re welcome to cheer them on with her!
Dr. Tim Sarsany – Music Director
I grew up in Warren, Ohio and came to Columbus to go to Ohio State University. I hold a Doctor of Musical Arts degree in conducting from The Ohio State University, as well a Master of Music degree in choral conducting and a Bachelor of Music degree in music theory and composition. I recently spent two years at Muskingum University as interim director of choral activities and assistant professor of music. Prior that, I spent 21 years with the Columbus Gay Men’s Chorus, spending 9 years as Artistic Director after serving 12 years as Assistant Director. I have also taught at the Marion campus of The OSU. I am a published composer and arranger, having about 10 pieces in print.
Yiwen Zhu – Accompanist
Yiwen Zhu is a Doctor of Musical Arts (DMA) candidate in Piano Performance at The Ohio State University. As a soloist and collaborative pianist, she has performed in concerts and festivals across the United States and Asia.
Her achievements have been recognized through multiple international awards, including honors from the YAMAHA National Piano Competition, the Liszt Memorial Award, and the American Protégé International Music Talent Competition, where she was invited to perform as a winner at Carnegie Hall in New York City. She has also been recognized with Outstanding Teacher Awards in several international competitions for her work in music education. Yiwen currently serves as the Keyboard Specialist at Northwest Christian Church.
Rebecca Bean – Secretary
Becky has been supporting our ministry since 2017. Becky is essential in running our office and overseeing day to day operations. We are appreciative for Becky’s cheerful personality and helpful attitude.
Madison Buty – Child Care Giver
Madison Buty grew up at Northwest Christian Church and enjoyed our programming for children and youth. She now helps care for the youngest members of our church family – showing them love and care each week in our nursery.
Karly Dearth – Child Care Giver
Karly Dearth grew up in Columbus & went to The Ohio State University where she studied Non-Profit Management. She loves spending time with kids, including her almost 3 year old daughter, Rudi.