NORTH

Ordained in 1987, Rev. Richard A. Koenig, also known as Pastor Sandy, comes from a clergy family. He has served UCC Churches in Perkasie PA, and Plantsville CT before his arrival in Woodbury, in 2014. 

Pastor Sandy grew up in the United Church of Christ in Havertown, PA, the second son, of a second son, of a second son of a pastor. His mother was also ordained UCC clergy.  He received his undergraduate degree from Haverford College, followed by a Master of Music degree in Choral Orchestral Conducting at the University of Washington in Seattle.  Pastor Sandy received his Master of Divinity degree from Princeton Seminary. 

Since ordination, he has been active in each of the local communities where he has served.  Board Chair of the UCC CT Conference, Association CCM chair, Board Chair of the VNA, President of the Plantsville Village Association, a United Way and Community Services Council of Woodbury board member, Pastor Sandy believes deeply in the role of the church in the community.  He loves music of all kinds, and has been a UCONN Women’s Basketball fan since 1994!  Pastor Sandy and Susan, his wife of over 40 years, have a son, Bob, who lives in Norton, MA.

Kathie’s background is in administration/management, and she retired from a career with the State of Connecticut, Dept. of Developmental Services, in July 2009.  

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In September of 2009, Kathie was hired as Parish Administrator at North Church. She oversees all aspects of the office, works closely with the pastor and committee chairs, and coordinates community meetings held at the church.  

Kathie enjoys outdoor photography, spending time with friends, and gardening.

Martin started working at North Church in 2016.  His main duties include overseeing building maintenance, remodeling projects, painting, plumbing, cleaning, and program set-ups.  He reports directly to the Property Committee.

Martin’s background consists of over forty years’ experience as a carpenter.  He takes pride in all of his work at North Church, small or large.  

Martin worked for over twenty years in law enforcement, retiring at the rank of Lieutenant.  He is married with three grown children and three grandchildren.

Mark Focarile has been the Organist and Music Director at North Congregational Church since 2003. He holds a B.S. in Music Education from Western Connecticut State University. Outside of the church, he is a frequent performer throughout the United States, and accompanies at Western Connecticut State University and several school districts. He also owns his piano studio where he gives lessons throughout the week.