Category: First Methodist of Tom’s River

Rich Batchelder

As you can tell from the picture, I am God’s gift to Dinean, father of 3 awesome boys, and a long time Biomedical Technician for a large dialysis provider. People are often surprised to find out that I do enjoy having conversations with people. I also love all kinds of music that is done well. Yes, even country music. I am excited about the Zoe Project because it will be a unique and exciting opportunity to brainstorm with different people from different perspectives to see how we can bring young adults back to the family of God.

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Dinean Batchelder

Raising three amazing young men alongside my wonderful husband, Rick, as well as maintaining a teacher career has been my focus for the last twenty-seven years. People are often surprised to find out that I can tie a cherry stem in my mouth and that I listen to Aerosmith, as well as, Broadway show tunes. I am excited about the Zoe Project because I am looking forward to being part of a team dedicated to learning together and developing a plan to reach out to young adults in my community. Having two sons in their twenties and one that will be there before I know it, I am truly invested in taking risks and creating innovative ways to walk alongside the young adults in my community, hoping that the light of Christ will unite them and knit them together into the family of God.

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David Geller

I am born and raised in Toms River and currently a student at Ocean County College with interest in social work and pastoral ministry. People are often surprised to find out that I am one of a set of quadruplets. I’m excited about The Zoe Project because I am excited about reaching more young adults in our community.

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Wes Ellis

I am a follower of Jesus Christ, a husband to an amazing wife, a father of two adorable children, and a student with degrees from Azusa Pacific University and Princeton Theological Seminary, currently pursuing a Ph.D. in Practical Theology from University of Aberdeen (Scotland). People are often surprised to find out that I am not an extrovert. I am excited about The Zoe Project because I care about the young adults in our community and I am want to see caring for young adults become part of the DNA of our church.

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The Zoe Project was funded by a grant from the Lilly Endowment, Inc, and is headquartered at Princeton Theological Seminary.