Church Leadership
Ji Eun “Mori” Siegel
Pastor
Pastor Mori was born into a devoted South Korean Methodist family. Pastor O’s desire to help people caused her to pursue both undergraduate and graduate studies in psychology at Seoul Women’s University. Her background in clinical psychology led to her employment at Seoul National University Hospital where she primarily worked with older adults with dementia. While working at the hospital, Pastor O discovered that God is the ultimate healer. Her calling to pastoral ministry came out of the hope that through the grace of God she would be able to assist people in recognizing themselves as beloved children of God. Since this was impossible to do as a psychologist, Pastor O moved to the United States to pursue an M.Div., at Garrett-Evangelical Theological Seminary. Pastor O focused on multigenerational activities, bringing children, parents, and grandparents together in faith. While at Garrett, Pastor O completed internships at Glenbrook Korean United Methodist Church, Trinity UMC of Wilmette, and worked as a chaplain at Advocate Illinois Masonic Medical Center in Chicago. Following her M.Div., graduation in 2018, Pastor O was appointed to Wyanet and Red Oak UMC where she became better aware of the issues facing rural congregations: high suicide rates, alcoholism and drug use, and declining populations. Recognizing the importance of spirituality in helping to address these challenges, Pastor O entered the M.A. program in Spiritual Formation and Direction at Garrett. Pastor O has both a passion to learn the stories of other people and is committed to collaborative ministry. She is excited to work with diverse communities, colorful cultures, and all generations.
Gloria Grasse
Deacon
Gloria Grasse is a Deacon in the United Methodist Church as well as a counselor with the Center for Religion and Psychotherapy. She has a particular interest in the impact of the creative process on the psychological and spiritual transformation of individuals. Gloria recently worked with homeless and marginalized individuals in the Uptown neighborhood of Chicago. She has a master of arts in pastoral care and counseling from Garrett-Evangelical Theological Seminary where she is completing a PhD in pastoral theology, personality and culture. Her research addresses the concept of the Divine as it relates to groups and individuals struggling with trauma. Gloria has been working with couples and individuals for five years. She works with clients around issues of identity, vocation and the creative process. Gloria has worked extensively with individuals in recovery from addiction as well as abuse survivors; addressing their experiences with anxiety and depression while working toward the development of life-giving skills.
Rev. Cody Johnson
Deacon
Cody is an ordained deacon in the United Methodist Church and is a Board Certified Chaplain (“BCC”). Cody, a native Texan and cradle United Methodist, attended The University of Texas at Austin where he majored in International Relations and Government before working for the Texas State Capitol and the San Antonio Fair Housing Council where he advocated for tenants facing discrimination. In 2015, Cody returned to his childhood calling of ministry– eventually moving to Chicago and attending Garrett-Evangelical Theological Seminary in Evanston. He received his Master of Divinity from Garrett in 2019 and worked as a chaplain intern at a retirement community and community hospital for two years during seminary. Following seminary, Cody continued pursuing chaplaincy and completed a unit of Clinical Pastoral Education (“CPE”) at Advocate Illinois Masonic Medical Center and later received another four units of CPE as a chaplain resident (2019-2020) at Advocate Lutheran General Hospital and Advocate Children’s Hospital - Park Ridge through the beginning of the pandemic. He continued his career in chaplaincy and now serves as a staff chaplain at Ascension St. Joseph Hospital - Chicago, where he provides support to patients, staff, and families.
He is often seen in the back of the church with a camera and computer making sure church members unable to attend in-person are able to participate in worship through Zoom.
Cody lives with his lovely wife, Tatum, just a couple of blocks away from the church where they enjoy hosting the church’s monthly young adult gathering. (You should come!)"
Justin Ortez
Music Director
Justin Ortez is the dedicated Music Director at Ravenswood Fellowship United Methodist Church, where his heartfelt leadership brings depth and inspiration to our worship services. He is currently completing a diploma at Roosevelt University’s Chicago College of Performing Arts. With a rich background in both classical and contemporary repertoire, Justin is known for his nuanced interpretations and commitment to musical excellence. His musical leadership reflects a deep passion for creating meaningful and engaging worship experiences. At Ravenswood Fellowship, his thoughtful selections and inspiring direction foster a welcoming environment that invites all to lift their voices and hearts in praise. We are grateful to have Justin leading our choral ensembles, instrumentalists, and congregational song.