Our Minister, Rev Don Sellsted, arrived at Orchard Valley United Church on July 1, 2018. He grew up in the prairies of western Canada and after spending years working there and traveling extensively for his work, he accepted a call into ministry. Don has been a continuous learner since 1985 including graduating as an Engineering Technologist and studying at the University of Regina. In 2009 he began his theological studies at St. Andrews College in Saskatoon before entering into his Master of Divinity studies at the Atlantic School of Theology in Halifax. He graduated with his Master’s degree in May 2018, and was ordained into the United Church of Canada later that month.
Thea Burton, our Choir Director, began singing in choirs when she was 4 years old, and hasn’t stopped since. She previously co-directed the former St. Andrew’s United Church choir in Wolfville, N.S., and now, upon retirement from the school board as a Speech-Language Pathologist, is enjoying returning to choir duties at Orchard Valley, occasionally sharing a Broadway tune or two.
Debbie Mailman, our Youth Group Leader for the Friday Night Family Engagement program, is a recently retired music educator who taught in the Annapolis Valley for nearly four decades. Throughout her career, she developed a deep love of working with youth.
Debbie has been actively involved in church life for many years. Her service has included singing in church choirs, serving on church council, teaching Sunday School, participating on committees, organ supply and music leadership for the “Sunday Morning Live” program at Greenwich United Church. She is excited to be involved with the OVUC church youth and families building community in faith.
Our Youth and Young Family Minister, Rev. Max Martin, after joining Orchard Valley United, was ordained this past spring after gaining his MDiv. from the Atlantic School of Theology. Rev. Max is currently on leave.
Carmen Peng, Collaborative Pianist, a math and biology major at Acadia University, began piano studies at the tender age of 5, and recently earned her ARTC (Associate Diploma) from the Royal Conservatory of Music. She spoils the choir with her weekly rehearsal treats.
Rachel MacLean-Hawley (picture coming) is the administrative assistant at Orchard Valley United Church. Rachel is a former PK (Preacher’s Kid) and spent most of her youth as part of many church families throughout Nova Scotia and New Brunswick. She is a Singer/Songwriter/Recording Artist from the Annapolis Valley.