Rev. Heather Schoenewolf, Pastor
Heather grew up in West Homestead and was raised as a Roman Catholic. Her path to the Presbyterian Church (and to ministry in general) was grounded in invitations to “Come and see!”
A high school friend invited her to a non-denominational youth group. Heather’s faith deepened and she began Bible Study. At Allegheny College, Heather explored Protestant traditions that allowed women to participate fully in the life of the church. Returning to Pittsburgh after graduation, she accepted a friend’s invitation to East Liberty Presbyterian Church (ELPC). At ELPC, Heather found a denomination that affirmed Christ’s inclusive love. PCUSA felt like home.
Heather’s first post-college job was for Child’s Way, a pediatric day-treatment program for medically fragile children. Continuing her work with kids, Heather and husband David spent six months in Chennai, India. David established a curriculum for children with autism while Heather assisted teachers and social workers. Back in Pittsburgh, Heather continued working with children and families in crisis at Project STAR. She also taught Sunday School at ELPC. She was invited to apply for the Director of Youth and Young Adult Ministries. Though the position was not on Heather’s career radar, she prayed about it and accepted the job.
Soon after, Heather was invited to visit Pittsburgh Theological Seminary (PTS). She answered a call to ordained ministry and began taking classes. After her graduation from PTS, ELPC conducted a search for an Associate Pastor. Both Heather and ELPC heeded the call for her to take this position at the church she loved. As Associate, she valued bringing diverse groups together to learn about Christ’s love. In late 2023, Heather began to explore a new call. At the same time, CPCBA was looking for a new pastor. On July 28, 2024, the congregation voted to call Heather to our pulpit and she accepted.
In her spare time, Heather enjoys reading, yoga, ice cream, and spending time with those she loves.
CASSIE SEMLER, DIRECTOR OF FAITH FORMATION
My name is Cassie Semler, and I am the Faith Formation Director at CPCBA. I work with all age groups, but especially the youth of the church. I’ve been working in ministry for a decade, and am getting my Master’s of Divinity at Pittsburgh Theological Seminary. Allowing a brave space for all to ask the tough questions and feel comfortable in sitting with the mysteries of God is an important aspect of our work together. All (all genders, sexualities, nationalities, languages, origins, races, creeds, social status, etc.) are welcomed and affirmed!
I am a mother of 3 and a wife to an amazing partner, Tyler. We have 2 cats and a dog, and all of them love to go on hikes with us. When not working, you will usually find me reading or listening to music with my kiddos. I am a huge fan of Disney! I am a Pittsburgh transplant, but am learning to love the Steelers and Pirates anyways. My office door and email inbox are always open, and I look forward to talking with you!nce.
Tim Heavner, Music Director and Organist
Since the fall of 2015, I have served as the Music Director and Organist at CPCBA. I currently teach Band and Musical Theatre classes at Sewickley Academy and perform as an accompanist and vocalist with the Mendelssohn Choir of Pittsburgh. Originally from Anchorage, Alaska, I came to Pittsburgh by way of New York City; professionally, I have maintained an active life as a teacher, performer, and musical director across various genres. I earned a degree in Piano Performance from the Oberlin Conservatory of Music, have pursued graduate studies in Vocal Accompanying at the Manhattan School of Music, and am currently pursuing a Master's in Music Education at the VanderCook College of Music in Chicago. I presently live in Beaver, PA, and I am the proud father of two artistic sons, Benjamin and Tristan.
Board and Committee Leadership
Clerk of Session Mary Jo Buffo
Trustees, President Patrick Abramowich
Treasurer Judy Pastor
Deacons - Co-Moderators Joycelyn Thayer and Lisa Long
Wooden Ladder Preschool Phil Kerstetter, Board President
Financial Secretary Barbara Barcousky
Communications & Technology Steve Mellon
Faith Formation Bob Nadin
Fellowship Deacons
Finance / Generosity Mary Witul
Mission & Outreach Kate Colville
Nominating Mary Witul, Steve Mellon
Personnel Mary Jo Buffo
Property Tim Miller
Stephen Ministry Jean Henderson, Lyn Robertson
Worship & Music Michael Haider, Larry Jones