Staff

The church staff brings creative energy, faith, and love to the job.
Their commitment and hard work helps drive a ministry that is diverse and dynamic.
We are truly blessed to have such a strong team.

Sara Burchard, Church Office Manager: 303-452-5469
Sara is a life-long Lutheran and has been participating in worship as a layperson for 25 years: as an acolyte, lay reader, cantor – you name it! Sara holds two bachelor’s degrees in music, one in vocal performance and one in music education. She was a church music director for 10 years and still enjoys participating in church music as a soloist, choir member, and substitute music director. She discovered the administrative side of things during her tenure as office manager for her home congregation. Sara’s younger sister is an ELCA Pastor in Bloomington, Minnesota. Her husband, Steve, is the Director of Music at Central Presbyterian Church in downtown Denver. They have a six-year-old daughter.

Adrian Miller, Contemporary Service Worship Leader
Adrian grew up in Winnipeg, Canada attending St. Mary’s Anglican Church, while strongly influenced by her Ukrainian Orthodox grandparents out on the family farm. Adrian confirmed her passion for Jesus through Teens Encounter Christ, where she also discovered contemporary worship. She and her husband, Andy, have been married 15 years and have 3 young children. Adrian views contemporary worship as a dynamic method through which The Word is alive in the language and music of today, and worshipers are invited to grow stronger and closer in their relationship with Jesus Christ.

Russ Skillings, Choir Director and Bell Choir Director
Russ and Cyndi, his wife of 27 years, have been members of Saint Stephen's since 1983 and they have 2 adult daughters, Keara and Judi. Russ is active in the St. Stephen's music department, sings with "The Gentlemen Fourte" men's quartet, as well as with the "Colorado Symphony Chorus". His hobbies include reading, golf and baseball.

Beth Hewes, Director of Youth Ministries
Originally from Texas, Beth moved to Colorado with her loving husband, Michael, and dog, Cinnamon. She started working with youth and children's groups in 1999. She has also been involved with
Women's Ministry, handbells, and young adults. During her free time, Beth enjoys watching the Colorado Rapids, seeing Broadway musicals, and enjoying the outdoors.

Cyndi Skillings, Stephen Ministry Leader & Referral Coordinator
Cyndi and her husband Russ have been members of Saint Stephen's since 1983. They have two grown daughters, Keara and Judi. After a long and successful career as a teacher Cyndi retired and now puts much of her energy into visiting our shut-ins, leading our Stephen Ministry program, and co-chairing the Women's Ministry Program. Her heart for people and concern for others shines through in all that she does. Cyndi also leads two book clubs, but still finds time to sing in our choir.

Kathi Hinkel, Director of Children's Ministry
Kathi is energetic with a heart for children's ministry. She has over 30 years experience teaching children. She has her M. A. in education. In addition to teaching Sunday School, she has taught school in both the public and private sectors. Kathi is married with 4 children and 2 grandchildren.