LEADERSHIP TEAM
Pastor David R. Mattson
As the lead pastor, Pastor David has a passion for communicating the love of God in ways that are uplifting and practical. He has served at Gloria Dei for over twenty four years. He and his wife Kimberly have two children (Emma and Anders). David has also been a pastor at two other Lutheran congregations in California and Arizona.
His interests include hanging out with the family, traveling, reading, sports of all kinds, music, and anything outdoors.
Email: pastordavid@mygloriadei.org
Shelli Parajeckas, Preschool Director
Shelli has been with the preschool since 1989. She has served in every capacity. She embraces a high quality program, as well as one that provides children with genuine love and respect.
Shelli is an Ambassador for ELCA Schools; she provides schools with resources and accreditation support. She also works very closely with Orange County Department of Education in their Quality Star Program.
Shelli enjoys reading, walking, and spending time with her family and friends.
Email: preschool@mygloriadei.org
Michelle Lum, Minister of Art and MUSIC
Michelle is leading in all areas related to art, music, choirs, and is also assisting in pastoral duties. She studied art and music at Biola University before completing her masters degree in Theology. She recently completed a Master of Fine Arts at Claremont Graduate University. Michelle is passionate about art, music, and theology, and especially about where they intersect.
In her free time Michelle loves to explore, learn new skills, and spend time with her family and friends.
Email: michellelum@mygloriadei.org.
Carol Weinhardt, Administrative Assistant
Carol is involved with day to day, “behind the scenes” workings at Gloria Dei. She manages the office, organizes and prints the weekly bulletin & monthly newsletters, organizes our wonderful volunteers, and ‘pitches in’ wherever she is needed.
Carol, Chuck and their three children are members of Gloria Dei, so you’ll see her milling about on Sundays too.
Her interests and activities include: time spent with family, friends and animals, yoga, tennis, surfing, running, travel, playing cards and games, music, cooking and reading.
Email: gloriadei@mygloriadei.org
Paige Gulck, Youth Director
Paige plans all the fun events for the youth at Gloria Dei. The Senior High group meets monthly to do a wide variety of activities from helping at Serra’s Pantry to enjoying a night out at Knott’s Scary Farm. She also helps with the confirmation classes (6th-8th graders).
Paige enjoys traveling, spending time with friends and family, and community theater.
Email: youth@mygloriadei.org
Susie Boland, Congregational Life Director
Susie leads us in all areas related to Children (Sunday school, God Squad, Vacation Bible school, Trick or Trunk, etc.) and Fellowship/Friendship (dinners, parties, friendship events, and more).
There are ministries and events happening all the time in the areas of Children and Fellowship. Watch the bulletin/newsletter for details.
Susie is Married to Matt and they have four children. Susy also teaches at our Preschool.
Email: fellowship@mygloriadei.org
DEACON DANEEN PYSZ
Daneen was recently ordained at Gloria Dei as a Minister of Word and Service, a deacon. She completed her Master’s Degree through Pacific Lutheran Theological Seminary.
Daneen leads Gloria Dei in the areas of visitation (hospital, shut-ins), prayer and spiritual life, and “prime-timers.”
She loves hanging out with her husband Dennis, kids and grandkids, friends, traveling, music, learning, walking and more.
Micaela Lum, Organist/Pianist
Micaela completed her Masters in Music at USC Thornton, and prior to that earned her bachelor’s degrees in Piano Performance and Music in Worship at Biola University. Currently, she is studying for her doctorate in Piano Performance at USC.
Micaela performs regularly as a classical pianist around Southern California. She has played in venues such as the Weill Recital Hall at Carnegie Hall, and internationally as well in France, Poland, and Italy. In addition to the piano and organ, Micaela also enjoys making music as a conductor and harpsichordist.
Outside of music, Micaela enjoys spending time with family and reading, especially works related to music history and/or theology. Her favorite authors include George MacDonald, G.K. Chesterton, and Shakespeare.