Nova Villa Vitug-Thomas was born and raised in the Philippines and was a local pastor there for eight years. She was assigned to Calvary UMC Mohnton as the senior pastor in 2023 after serving Ignite UMC Kenilworth for six years. Nova graduated with a Master of Divinity and finished one year of the Women’s Religious Leadership program of Doctor of Ministry at Drew University. She was ordained as Elder in October 2020 and is passionate about proclaiming the Good News of Jesus Christ’s love for all and making disciples for the transformation of the world. Before Kenilworth, she led a Filipino fellowship in North Jersey and was a student minister at Vincent UMC Nutley. Nova is a missionary by heart. She is a gifted preacher and a community organizer. She is married to Justin and has two kids, Nathan and Nicole. Pastor Nova’s email is novavillavi@gmail.com
Janet Dearstyne, Administrator
Janet is the wife of Ken Dearstyne, Jr. and an active member of Calvary UMC for over 35 years. She has been involved in leadership and as a participant in many ministries, including: Trustees, Church Council, Calvary Before/After School Care, Nomination & Leadership, Bell Choir, Good Shepherd Mission team member, Sunday school teacher, Missions Chairperson, and Lay Worship Leader.
Janet graduated from Lebanon Valley College in 1982 with a degree in Business Administration. Prior to working at Calvary UMC, she was a Branch Banking Officer with Meridian Bank for 10 years. In 1992, Janet accepted the position of Church Secretary (now Administrator). Over the years, her roles/responsibilities have varied according to the needs of the congregation.
Janet has two grown, married children, Andrea and Aaron, as well as one grandson, Blake.
Janet’s life verse is Jeremiah 29:11: For I know the plans I have for you, says the LORD, plans for welfare and not for evil, to give you a future and a hope. Janet’s email is administrator.calvmohn@comcast.net
Justin is married to Pastor Nova Vitug-Thomas, and it’s clear he has a heart for working with children and youth. He grew up in Michigan, where he served in Youth Ministry in several churches before moving to Sitka, Alaska, where he lived for 8 years.
Justin continued his ministry in Sitka working for a U.M. church, first as their Youth and Children’s Director and then as the Administrative Assistant. He also helped to run church camp in Juneau, Alaska.
Justin supports working with a team, frequently served on several church committees over the years, including Christian Education, Administrative Board and Worship.
Justin has a medical background and has worked in hospitals in Michigan, Alaska, and New Jersey and is currently working full time at the Center for Urologic Care Berks County.
Justin is looking forward to his new ministry at Calvary UMC.