“I’m looking forward to joining the Potomac United Methodist Church community and helping members to express their faith,” said the Rev. Dr. Laura Easto. “I am so excited to be here as the new pastor — and I am embracing all the wonderful possibilities that this position offers. I have felt so welcomed by this wonderful community since I started on July 1.”

A native Marylander, Easto grew up in Beltsville, Md. and graduated from the University of Maryland, Baltimore County (UMBC) with a degree in sociology. After graduation, she planned to attend law school at the University of Maryland; however, while working at the House of Ruth in Baltimore, she experienced the call to become a minister. Thus, she enrolled in Wesley Theological Seminary where she pursued a Doctorate of Ministry. She was ordained in 1984 and received her first appointment to Marvin Chapel in Martinsburg, W.Va. Since this first assignment, she has served in six different appointments, both as a minister and twice as District Superintendent.

Easto’s passions are preaching and community outreach. “I enjoy sharing the words of God and helping to relate them to our lives. Of course, a large part of my position is also to become acquainted with our members, to listen to their wishes and work together to implement goals and build on the strong foundation that is a PUMC tradition. I will also be seeking ways to engage our members and to re-energize the church.” She is looking forward to Rally Day on Sept. 10 which will be followed by a luncheon for all. “This is the perfect opportunity to meet the congregation and kick off our Sunday School and services. It’s also a great time for those who are interested in joining us to attend a service and meet the members.”

Currently living in Reisterstown, Md., Easto is the mother of two children in their 20s and enjoys quilting and reading mystery novels. She and her husband will relocate to Potomac as soon as they possibly can. “My family is the bedrock of my ministry,” she said.

Her focus on missional outreach took her to Japan and South Korea last summer and previously to Puerto Rico. “It’s important to learn meaningful ways in which we can give ourselves a chance to serve,” she said.

Music Director Rosemary Dyer will continue to enhance the 10 a.m. church services with choral music. Jacqueline Rock will remain as parish administrator, Aryan Ghafourian as administrative assistant and Lora Sullivan will continue to provide accounting services.

New to the church staff is Alex Woody, who will serve as director of Christian Education. She is currently working on her Master’s Degree in Divinity at Wesley Theological Seminary. Woody graduated from Shenandoah University with a Bachelor’s Degree in religion. She loves to travel and particularly enjoyed visiting monastic communities in Europe last summer to learn about faith and spirituality. “I am looking forward to getting to know the youth and adults here at PUMC,” said Woody. “I’m especially interested in how we can make the educational programs relevant to all who come here — and in encouraging new participation from the community. I’m thrilled to be here.”

Potomac United Methodist Church, located at the corner of Falls and South Glen Roads, is a Potomac landmark. The picturesque white church was established in 1854 and occupies the site which was originally a Presbyterian Church. As early as 1716, the land was occupied by Captain John’s Meetinghouse. The cemetery which surrounds the church dates back to the 1700s.

“We are a big extended family – a place that makes you feel right at home,” said Easto. “We are a special place for Christian fellowship and lifelong friendships — and we hope all will come, learn about us and join in our worship, education and community outreach.”