Meet Our Staff
Rev. Marissa
Mattox Heffernan,
Co-Lead Pastor
I am a wife and mom to 3 energetic girls. My husband and I both grew up in the Syracuse area. but we love discovering all that Rochester has to offer. I am eager to find some great places to grab a coffee and read a good book, or a quiet, green space for a long walk. I have worn many hats during my time in ministry, with some of my first roles being in worship and music Ministry. The unity experienced in worship has driven me to explore what the culture of Christianity would look like if all people were equally recognized as image-bearers of God. Along with my role here, I serve as Co-Chair of the Justice Network of the Free Methodist Church of North America.
Rev. Dr. Earlando Thomas, Co-Lead Pastor
Rev. Dr. Thomas is a part-time Associate Pastor of Evangelism at New Hope. He is also board-certified in Obstetrics and Gynecology and in Female Pelvic Medicine and Reconstructive Surgery and an Assistant Clinical Professor at the University of Rochester. He has always viewed his vocation as a calling to workplace ministry and has a lifelong passion for combined Medical and Evangelical missions. Married to his wife Marjorie since 1986, they have two grown children, Jerome and Aimee. He enjoys golfing, walking, and traveling. If you are excited about building relationships and sharing your faith with local community members, I would love to connect with you.
Rev. Scott Sittig Co-Lead Pastor
I thank the Lord for the opportunity to serve as part of this dynamic and faithful pastoral team. I live in the historic Maplewood Park neighborhood of the City of Rochester. I’ve been happily married for 30 years, and we have been blessed to have five children. We now have 2 wonderful daughters-in-law, and we are proud grandparents of 2. Rounding out our family are 1 dog and two cats (not counting the occasional bird or bat that flies around our attic). I’ve been involved in urban and youth ministry since my college days. I’m a sports enthusiast (try me) who stays active “coaching” my boys from the sidelines in multiple programs. I also love to work out, hike, and kayak. I’d love to connect with you so just reach out and let’s set up a time!
Contact
(585)244-4000
pastorscott@newhopefree.org
Read my Blog: A Pastor’s Reflections