Clergy and Staff

We are lucky to have such a kind and devoted staff here at Mount Carmel Congregational Church. Each member of our team brings a wealth of experience and talent to the table, helping us to create a unique and welcoming environment for all who pass through our doors. 

Minister
Reverend Milton Brasher-Cunningham

​Milton Brasher-Cunningham was born in Texas, grew up in Africa, and has spent the last thirty-odd years in New England and North Carolina. He is an ordained minister in the United Church of Christ, and has worked as a high school English teacher, a professional chef, a trainer for Apple, and an editor for Church Publishing. He is the author of three books, Keeping the Feast: Metaphors for the Meal and This Must Be the Place: Reflections on Home, and The Color of Together: Mixed Metaphors of Connectedness. He loves the Boston Red Sox, his mini-Schnauzers, handmade music, and feeding people. He lives in Guilford, Connecticut with Ginger, his wife, and their two Schnauzers. He writes regularly at www.donteatalone.com.

Office Administrator
Aren Alberico

Aren Alberico is the current Office Administrator and performs a variety of different tasks for the Church. This includes but is not limited to: drafting the weekly bulletin, compiling the monthly newsletter, managing the Church schedule, maintaining the Church website, and other secretarial duties. Aren studied at Fairfield University and wishes to one day complete his degree in Religious Studies and pursue a further vocation in the clergy. 

Music Director
Lynda Pedersen

Lynda Pedersen is the current Music Director for our Church, as well as our organist for over 35 years. Originally hailing from Wisconsin, Lynda has found a new home and purpose in Connecticut as a member of Bethesda Lutheran Church in New Haven, as well as having been a teacher for Hamden Public schools for over 20 years. Lynda also heads up our choir program, as well as our very own bell choir. In her spare time, Lynda is an avid reader and an enthusiastic puzzler. 

Treasurer
Ellen Amato

Ellen Amato is the current Treasure for the Mount Carmel Congregational Church, and has been for just over 10 years. She covers the financials for the Church, which includes managing donations, pledges, and expenses. She has been a member of Mount Carmel Congregational Church for over 14 years.  In her spare time, she loves hiking and spending time outdoors, as well as babysitting her granddaughter. 

Director of Faith Formation
Debbie Wooley

Debbie Wooley is the current Director of Faith Formation for Kids, also known as Christian Education. She has been a member of Mount Carmel Congregational Church for 30 years.  Debbie served as Christian Education Director previously for 10 years and was the Treasurer for 4 years.  She has also been a long-time choir member and is involved in various Outreach projects.