Pastor

Welcome to Holy Redeemer Parish – Jesus and I love you – Jesus more than me, but hey, He’s a tough act to follow! I hope you find this website helpful, and if looking for a parish to join, consider us.

A little about myself. I was born in 1969, graduated from Washington State University, had a huge conversion that you can listen to below, attended Mt. Angel Seminary, was ordained a priest in 2004, have been a pastor since 2007 to a total now of four parishes and a mission, have been here at Holy Redeemer since 2014, and hope to be here until I can no longer be a pastor. You can get a really good idea of who I am by listening to my homilies on this website here.

Holy Redeemer is truly a special parish. Our mission at Holy Redeemer is to Glorify God and sanctify souls, the same mission Jesus Christ had while walking the earth. We try to realize those two things in all we do here, which is substantial. It is my hope that every parishioner will meet Jesus Christ, fall in love with Him as He loves us; and give our lives to Him, as He has given His life for us.

My Conversion Story.

Vicar

Bio forthcoming.

Deacon

I’m Deacon Scott Aikin and I have been a Permanent Deacon since 2007, married for over 30 years to my wife Brenda, and have four young adult children. My family has lived in Vancouver, Washington since 1999.  I received a Bachelor’s degree in Wildlife Biology in 1992 and my Master’s degree in Natural Resources/Water Quality in 2000 from Humboldt State University in California. I used that education in a full time career as the National Native American Programs Coordinator for the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service working remotely in the Director’s Office in DC, from which I am now retired.

In addition to serving as deacon for Holy Redeemer, I am Director of Campus Ministry at Seton Catholic.

I am an enrolled tribal member of the Prairie Band of Potawatomi Nation of Northeast Kansas and have more than a quarter century of experience helping the Federal Government carry out its trust responsibilities toward Tribes throughout the United States.

Email: scotta@holyredeemervanc.org

Director of Evangelization

As the Director of Evangelization I work with Father to make sure the sacramental and religious education needs of the parish are being met. I help my staff plan and deliver programs for parishioners of all ages. You will see me leading OCIA, Fraternus (middle and high school), Marriage Prep, and Adult Education. 

I enjoy spending time with my wife Andrea and our four kids: Joel, Evan, Maris, and Hope. I am an engineer by training so I love coming up with and implementing solutions to problems in the Church and at home. 

Phone: 360-941-9148
Email: markm@holyredeemervanc.org

Evangelization Lead

Hello! I serve as Family Evangelization Lead and Catechesis of the Good Shepherd Coordinator. You will find me teaching baptism classes, OCIA, and adult faith formation classes. I help with marriage preparation and coordinate weddings at STA. I also coordinate the three atria for CGS at both campuses as well as consult for the STA school. I lead retreats for the school and the Confirmation students. 

I have a B.A. in Philosophy and Theology, a Masters in Curriculum and Instruction, Montessori training (A.M.I.) and a post graduate certificate in Catechesis and Liturgy from Notre Dame. Most recently, I have been trained in all three levels of Catechesis of the Good Shepherd. I have taught Montessori at all ages for 25 years and have worked in various roles for the Church for over ten years (The University of Portland/Campus Ministry, The Grotto, and the Proto-Cathedral) 

I met my husband Al in 1990 and joined STA in 1993, eventually moving to Camas in 1999. Both my children, Josh and Rachel, grew up in the parish and graduated from Seton Catholic before going onto college. They live in North Dakota and Colorado. 

Phone: 360-541-9152
Email: amy@stthomascamas.org

Evangelization Lead

Hello! I’m Annie Cooper. Some of my main responsibilities include preparing materials and organizing volunteers for Elementary Religious Education, Vacation Bible School, and First Sacraments preparation for elementary aged youth for the Holy Redeemer campus. I also have a lot of fun creating, fun colorful flyers and promotional materials for our numerous Faith Formation offerings. 

I went to school at Washington State University in Pullman, WA - GO COUGS! It was at WSU that I fell in love with Catholic faith and began to seek intimacy with Christ.  In my free time you will find me hanging out with friends, having way too much fun with sourdough, hiking, doing puzzles, and reading books. 

Phone: 360-541-9147
Email: anniec@holyredeemervanc.org

Evangelization Lead

Greetings!  I serve as Sac Prep Evangelization Lead at St. Thomas Aquinas and have the privilege of helping children prepare to receive Jesus’ mercy in Reconciliation and His Body, Blood, Soul, and Divinity in the Eucharist.  

I am the 2nd oldest of 8 children in a Catholic family.  We grew up working on our farm in Roy, OR.  I graduated from Oregon College of Education (now WOU) in Monmouth, OR in 1974 (GO WOLVES!)  I taught primary grades in Roseburg, OR, Lodi and Crescent City, CA, and Camas, WA.  I completed a Master’s Degree in Catholic Theology from Catholic Distance University in 2010.   I am a secular Carmelite with Holy Rosary Community in Portland.  I lead the Prayer Shawl Ministry at STA as of 2020. 

I currently teach 4 mornings/week in the Learning Support program at St. Joseph School in Vancouver.  My hobbies include traveling, knitting, memorizing poetry, and enjoying my friends, 5 living siblings, 15 nieces & nephews, numerous cousins, and several godchildren.  Oh, and one more – falling asleep on my recliner...  :-) 

Phone: 360-541-9153
Email: sacprep@stthomascamas.org

Evangelization Lead

I serve as the Children’s Faith Formation Lead for CRC here at St. Thomas Aquinas Campus. I feel truly blessed to walk alongside children, teens, and families as we grow together in our Catholic faith. My role includes coordinating programs for Religious Education and Teen Confirmation, as well as supporting our dedicated catechists and volunteers who make this ministry possible. Organizing parish events, youth opportunities, and family-centered faith experiences brings me great joy, and I love helping others discover the beauty of our Catholic faith. 

In addition to my parish work, I am an educator and teach Spanish Language Arts to multilingual learners and Science to 4th and 5th grade students. I am passionate about literacy and about creating spaces where every child feels seen, supported, and inspired. My background in medicine has also shaped the way I serve others—with care, attention, and a desire to help people grow in mind, body, and spirit. 

My husband, Andy, and I met 29 years ago, and we are blessed with two daughters, Marisol and Isabella. We love seeing them achieve their goals and supporting them as much as possible. We are so grateful to be part of such a faith-filled parish community. 

Phone: 360-541-9154
Email: denice@stthomascamas.org

Evangelization Lead

As a Family Evangelization Lead, at Holy Redeemer you’ll find me leading Confirmation (and other sacramental preparation for 6th-12th graders), Baptism preparation for children (age 6 and up), and Fidelis Sisterhood, as well as other events and programs throughout the year. During the summer I run Middle School Intensive, a Vacation Bible School style program for 6-8th graders.  

I have a BA in theology from Mount St. Mary’s University, and have been working in ministry in the greater Vancouver area since 2014. I grew up attending St. Thomas in Camas. When not at work, I enjoy going on adventures with my husband Kevin and our children Benedict and Madeleine, and running a tabletop gaming group with friends.

Phone: 360-541-9145
Email: katelyng@holyredeemervanc.org

Evangelization Lead

I’m Melissa. I have worked at Holy Redeemer in various positions over the last ten years. Currently, some of my job duties are  sacramental records, funeral coordinator, and assisting with Sacraments and the Liturgy. I also enroll students in our many Faith Formation programs. I married my first blind date, Chad, who I met 26 years ago.  We have two boys, Charles & Nikolaus, and two grandchildren, Owen & little Rosie.  My parents are happy that I am now using my expensive History degree, however in a roundabout way. I read a ton, drink too much coffee, and according to my family I don’t cook enough. 

Phone: 360-541-9146
Email: melissaa@holyredeemervanc.org

Parish Manager

Hello, I am thrilled to serve our church as your administrator.  As the administrator, my role is to manage our sensational staff with the objective of providing sensational service to the parishioners that we serve.  I also serve as one of the lead ushers. 

In my past professional life, I have served as a USAF Contracts Negotiation Officer, a sales manager in the pharmaceutical industry, and I’ve owned several businesses including a sports performance business.  Working for the church is a great way to complete my working career, and I am so happy to be able to do so in my home parish. 

Phone: 360-541-9151
Email: dona@holyredeemervanc.org

Parish Coordinator and St. Thomas Liturgy Coordinator

As parish coordinator, I’m part of your administrative team, assisting the pastor and our parish family administrator with CRC calendaring, communications, office services, and special events.  Based at St. Thomas Aquinas, I focus on helping things run smoothly at our Camas campus, including support for our beautiful liturgies.  

I met my wife, Lisa, in elementary school. We live in Washougal where we are embracing the empty-nester lifestyle and remain blessed with four adult children (and a few grandchildren!) now building their own domestic churches. I feel very fortunate to have found a way to combine my experience as a naval officer with a graduate degree in theology to serve our parish family. Many thanks to all our parishioners and generous volunteers who make this effort so rewarding. 

Phone: 360-834-2126
Email: ted@stthomascamas.org

Business Manager

I’m your Business Manager. I oversee all of the finances of the Columbia River Catholic parishes and run our parish family business team.  I can help you with any financial questions related to the parish. I also do our sacred graphic design, website, and some of our IT. I work in the Holy Redeemer office Monday, Wednesday, and Thursdays and remotely on Tuesdays. I can be reached by email or phone on any working day.  

When not working for Columbia River Catholic, I spend time with my wife Katelyn and my children Benedict and Madeleine.

I have a Masters in theology and love studying Catholic theology. I’m also a huge fan of tabletop games. 

Phone: 360-924-0860
Email: keving@holyredeemervanc.org

Director of Sacred Music

Bio forthcoming.

Email: karlr@crcatholic.org

Star of the Sea Coordinator

I’m Abby - Liturgical Coordinator for the small mission church, Our Lady Star of the Sea, in Stevenson, with my better half, Tony. Our Lady Star of the Sea is a special gem amongst the Columbia Catholics Family. You will find her tucked away in the majestic Columbia Gorge, an hour away from our sisters and brothers of Holy Redeemer and St. Thomas Aquanis. My husband and I have the task of caring for this small community and are blessed to serve in Our Lord Jesus Christ’s mission. 

I’m a happy Catholic wife of 26 years. My husband and I have owned and operated a small garden nursery, Gator Creek Gardens, in Carson, WA since 1999, and I am a homeschooling mom to my three youngest children of five – all of whom are my most treasured gifts.  

I love a great cup of coffee, going to holy Mass, traveling, arranging flowers for the Altar, reading historical fiction and I am a sucker for Catholic podcasts.  

My motto this year: 

Pray, hope and be happy! (part St. Pio and a little me).

Phone: 509-427-8478
Email: abby@stthomascamas.org

Star of the Sea Liturgy Coordinator

Bio forthcoming.

Pastor’s Secretary and Holy Redeemer Liturgy Coordinator

It is a pleasure to be able to call myself your Receptionist, Pastor’s Secretary, and Liturgical Coordinator at Holy Redeemer.   

I am from a town outside Boston. It is so wonderful to have my church family here since all my relatives are spread out all over the East Coast. I like to say, " I married here " over 30 years ago. My husband Mike and I have an amazing son, Justin.  Even though his house is outside the boundaries of Holy Redeemer, he meets us every week at 4:30 Vigil Mass.  

Stop by to say Hi and I will share the story about how my husband and I got invited to Rome by the Pope to my cousin St. John Henry Newman’s Canonization in 2019. 

I'm looking forward to helping my fellow parishioners I've known since the year 2000, and the parishioners that I will meet in the many years to come. 

Phone: 360-885-7780
Email: marybethy@holyredeemervanc.org

Administrative Assistant and Communications Coordinator

It is such an honor and a pleasure to serve as your Administrative Assistant in our Parish.  You will find me in the Parish offices supporting Don Anderson our Administrator with parish communications (the weekly bulletin and eblast, website), special events and projects and any other way to help our parish family continue to run smoothly and keep our members informed.  

Since graduating with my bachelor’s degree from Oregon State University, God has blessed me with wonderful career experiences as an entrepreneur, consultant, and in business and nonprofit marketing and development. To be able to offer those experiences now to help advance our Holy Redeemer mission to “Glorify God and Sanctify Souls” is so fulfilling!  

My husband Mike and I enjoy family get-togethers with our children and grandchildren, as well as involvement as members of Rotary. In the evenings and weekends I love participating in the choir, Women Growing in Faith, small faith sharing groups, reading and iconography. 

Phone: 360-541-9143
Email: judym@holyredeemervanc.org

Bookkeeper

Greetings to all parishioners of Columbia River Catholic Family. I am Susan Schneider, and I serve as a bookkeeper for the CRC family. I was born and raised in Indonesia, and I left my country in 2002. My parents and sister sometimes come and visit us here in the US. My Mom said that I am the calmest one of my other two siblings, my older brother, Herwin, and younger sister, Julia.

I love traveling and met my husband in Portland in 2011. We are blessed with 2 active boys, Vincent and Nathan. My family loves traveling and doing road trips. It is a lot of work to travel with little kids, but it is all worth it. We moved to Camas in 2020. I joined St. Thomas and Our Lady Star of the Sea Family in 2022 as a bookkeeper and helped with some of the admin role.

I am proud to call both Parishes my family. It has been a great journey, and they are still part of my journey. My journey has now led me to the Holy Redeemer Family, for which I am very excited. I look forward to getting to know each of you and serving our Lord together with the whole CRC Family. 

Phone: 360-541-9157
Email: susan@stthomascamas.org   

Business Administrative Assistant

I serve as the Administrative Assistant in the Business Office at Columbia River Catholic, where I help manage the day-to-day operations that support our parish communities. I feel blessed to contribute to a faith-centered environment where service, organization, and teamwork are key to everything we do. Outside of work, I love spending time with my family and sharing my heritage through ballet folklórico. Dancing is a joyful way I stay connected to my culture and community. See you around! 

Phone: 360-541-9144
Email: juliao@crcatholic.org

Facilities Manager

I am overjoyed with the opportunity to be your facilities manager here at Holy Redeemer. My wife, Sharon, and I moved down to Washougal from Anchorage, Alaska in 2022 and fell so in love with this parish after attending our first mass that we registered as parishioners.  It worked out that God had a plan for me, I was blessed to be selected for this position here to serve the church and to get more involved with its community.   

I have been an Alaskan most of my life and have covered many facets of the construction and maintenance industry. From a concrete laborer/finisher to owner/operator of Norton Lewis  Maintenance company, I believe that I have been in training for this position throughout my career. 

We have found many new brothers and sisters in Christ here at Holy Redeemer and are looking forward to getting to know more of the family here. Please feel free to contact me with any concerns about the facility or just to get to know me!  I have some great Alaskan tales to tell! 

Phone: 360-541-9150
Email: shawnn@holyredeemervanc.org

Maintenance

Bio forthcoming.

Phone: 360-541-9156
Email: mike@stthomascamas.org

Custodian

Hi, I am your part-time custodian at Holy Redeemer. I make sure the church is clean so you can have a nice place to worship. Also, I am working hard to keep your, restrooms clean and stocked, sidewalks clear, and trash picked up. 

I assist Shawn when needed. When I am not working, I help with altar serving, greeting, and attend Mass. I enjoy camping, hiking with my family, and participate in Miracle League Baseball.

Custodian

Bio forthcoming.

Teacher

I am a teacher, servant, and friend. I am grateful for the gifts and experiences God has supplied me and am learning how to prayerfully discern my role in this new community of combined parishes. I have a wonderful family and an incredible guardian angel! I am grateful for every day I’m given the chance to learn and grow with friends and family around me. I’m always up for a cup of coffee and a chat about education. Don’t hesitate to reach out if you feel called to contribute to this important work! 

Phone: 360-953-5842
Email: erin@stthomascamas.org

Teacher

Nice to meet you! I am beyond blessed to serve the parish family as one of the Pre-K Teachers at the CRC School, as well as lead for our CRC Young Adult Ministry. A parishioner and local of Camas and Holy Redeemer for over eight years, you’ve probably seen me around in the classroom, VBS, Catechesis Lessons, Retreats, and any other ministry I can help out with.  

I’m an alum of the University of Iowa and (soon to be) Washington State University (class of 2026) where I studied English, Elementary Education, and General Education. 

An avid traveler and hiker, you’ll often find me on some sort of retreat or pilgrimage on my weekends/days off. Feel free to pull me for a chat if you want to discuss Bible Studies, Spiritual Reading, Vocations or getting more active in ministry! May our Blessed Mother keep you wrapped under Her Immaculate Mantle. 

Phone: 360-261-6026
Email: danielf@holyredeemervanc.org

Teacher

Bio forthcoming.

Phone: 360-953-5842
Email: denise@stthomascamas.org

Administrative Assistant

Bio forthcoming.

Phone: 360-953-5842
Email: lauren@stthomascamas.org