Clergy & Staff
Rector: The Reverend Brett R. Johnson
For surely I know the plans I have for you, says the Lord, plans for your welfare and not for harm, to give you a future with hope. (Jer. 29:11)
A person who models a life of hope and gratitude, Brett joined Emmanuel Episcopal Church as their 21st Rector on March 6, 2023. He leans into the truth that God cherishes every part of creation. He came to Emmanuel after serving at Christ Church (Andover, MA), St. Peter’s Episcopal Church (Beverly, MA), Parish of the Good Shepherd (Waban, MA), and All Saints Episcopal Church of the North Shore (Danvers, MA).
His call to the priesthood came while serving as a chaplain (Holy Family Hospital, Methuen, MA). Indeed, Brett loves pastoral care and chaplaincy.
He lives in North Reading with his husband and dog. He is surrounded by love and grateful to share that each one of us is beloved by God, too!
Director of Music: Michael Salvatore
Michael Salvaore has been Director of Music at Emmanuel Church for nearly 15 years, since January 2005. Under his direction Emmanuel’s music program has grown considerably. He is a graduate of Hamilton College with a B.A. in American Studies and Music. He received the M.A. in Music Education from Boston University. In addition to serving as Emmanuel’s Director of Music, he is Chair of the Art Department, Director of Choral Music, Music Coordinator, and Instructor at the Fenn School, a private boys’ preparatory school in Concord, Massachusetts.
Since 2007 Mike has been Associate Director of MagnificatBoston, a choir of the Episcopal Diocese of Massachusetts, which sings traditional choral evensong in parishes throughout the diocese. Prior to his appointment at Emmanuel, Mike was Director of Music at St. Peter’s Episcopal Church in Beverly, Mass., and St. Elizabeth’s Episcopal Church in Sudbury, Mass.
As Emmanuel’s Director of Music, Mike is the principal organist for Sunday worship services and special events, such as weddings and funerals. He directs the talented Emmanuel Parish Choir, a group of 12-14 members, which rehearses weekly on Tuesday evenings and is always open to new members. Mike has organized and participated in many special concerts, services, and other events at Emmanuel and regionally. He is active in civic affairs in Wakefield, including service as president of the board of directors of the Colonel James Hartshorne House.
Parish Administrator: Lisa Ventura
Lisa joined the Emmanuel staff as Parish Administrator in March of 2020. She previously worked in the educational publishing industry for 33 years.
Lisa is an active member at Emmanuel serving on the Altar Guild, the Pastoral Care Committee, and volunteers with the Bread of Life and Horizon House ministries.
She is a Wakefield resident and a long-time volunteer for the American Cancer Society Relay For Life of Wakefield.
Financial Secretary: Mary Ann Nestor
Mary has served as Emmanuel’s financial secretary and bookkeeper since 2005. Prior to that, she was our parish secretary.
Sexton: Doug Lloyd
Doug Lloyd has served as Emmanuel Church’s sexton since 2014. He was previously sexton at Grace Church in Newton. He and his wife are active Episcopalians, attending St. Paul’s Church in Malden.