Rev. Dawn Shippee | Senior Pastor
Dawn A. Shippee began serving as the Senior Minister of North Church of Portsmouth, UCC on February 14, 2000. She received her Bachelor of Arts (Theatre) from the University of Maine in 1972 and her Master of Divinity from Yale Divinity School in 1985. Prior to her call to North Church, Dawn served in Laconia and Hillsboro, New Hampshire. She finds joy in her family—parents, siblings and their spouses and nine nieces and nephews. Reading and sewing are among her pastimes and hopes to become be a regular volunteer at the New Hampshire Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals.
Nathan Amsden | Director of Music Ministry
Nathan Amsden, our organist since 2006, became the Director of Music Ministry in 2008. Nathan brings a strong piano/organ performance background, his Bachelor of Music from UNH, his Masters from Lesley University, and a wide variety of experiences in the music field to the organ bench and choir loft. After several musical tours in Europe with wind ensembles, choirs, and jazz bands, he taught K-12 music for 13 years. His vocal arrangements and compositions reflect his passion for all types of music.
Melissa Wilson | Administrative Assistant
Melissa Koren Wilson began working for North Church in January of 2004. You’ll find her in the Church Office Mon-Thurs making bulletins, answering phones, and whatever else the day brings. When not in the office, she spends time with her family at their home in Exeter. She’s also a professional photographer, an endeavor that’s taken her on many an adventure! She loves when her two jobs overlap. On the rare occasion she finds some free time she gravitates towards scrabble & taste-touring local restaurants.
Brenda Delfino | Church School Superintendent
Brenda Delfino began her role as Church School Superintendent of North Church of Portsmouth, UCC on October 3, 2010. She is a mother of one daughter and has been a church school teacher here for 16+ years, while also filling positions on the Parish Life Board and the Board of Deacons. In 1983 she received her Associates degree from McIntosh College in Dover, New Hampshire and has worked for New Hampshire law firms and title companies since that time. She cherishes each moment she is able to spend with her family, especially her daughter. Among her greatest pleasures are her daughter, Amanda, finding that quiet, special place to grow closer to God, and sharing her faith with others, especially our youth.
Paul Gobbi | Custodian
Paul Gobbi has been the North Church Custodian since 2004. In his 30 hour work week he cares for both the Market Square Sanctuary and the Parish House on Spinney Road. Paul will offer a friendly greeting and is willing to assist in any of the varied and sundry tasks that come along! He enjoys time with his wife, son and daughter.
