Ann and her family have been members at Atonement since 2000 and says that she was drawn to our church by the friendly and caring atmosphere she experienced. As a volunteer prior to joining our ministry team, Ann served as a confirmation guide when her own children were in the program. By the way, she suggests that all adults can benefit from the great learning experience as a guide for our youth, She has also served on Council as well as the Outreach board. In late 2005, Ann became a part-time member of the staff and she claims this position is among the most fun jobs she's ever had. Her responsibilities involve welcoming and providing hospitality to guests, followed up by contacts with them as they become acquainted with the church. Ann also works closely with the dedicated volunteers on the Fellowship and Outreach boards to put on and promote events to invite others to Atonement.

Helen has served as Atonement’s Director of Worship and Music since 1987. When she began there were two traditional Sunday services, led musically by an ancient electronic organ and one adult choir. Now there are three services, incorporating an incredible variety of talents and resources: a beautiful Holtkamp pipe organ, a grand piano, multiple bell choirs, state-of-the-art sound system, multimedia capability, instrumentalists and singers of all types and ages serving across the morning. Helen says that looking back over the last twenty-three years, she is amazed at the growth and change in the worship life at Atonement. 

Worship life continues to evolve as we seek to proclaim the gospel of Jesus Christ through the gift of music. Music in worship reflects the rich bounty found in our Christian heritage as well as the best of the new and contemporary. Over a season, the music Helen leads ranges from the “Schubert liturgy” with orchestral accompaniment to global songs and jazz ensembles. The variety rises out of the gifts found among the people, and she considers it to be her joy to help release those gifts into sound and action each week.

Helen has a husband who serves as an ELCA pastor in La Grange, and two young adult children—who are often seen playing their instruments in worship from time to time as well. Beyond the world of music, enjoys traveling, gardening, reading mystery novels, and eating Rural Route #1 Jalapeno Cheese Popcorn.