SUM Communications Team
Welcome to the SUM Communications Team! With so many moving parts in our church life, we want to take a moment to introduce ourselves. We are here for you whenever you need communication expertise or support for church events and initiatives.
Who are we and what do we do?
Eileen Brogan (MA Communications) – SUM member since 2021; leader of the Communications Team. Retired after nearly 40 years in the insurance industry (Director Product Development); leader of Adult Spiritual Growth (ASG) ministry, co-leader of Friendly Visitors, facilitator for the Tuesday morning ASG class; former Exhorter, member of the Reimagine Church II task force; member of the Susanna Circle, and frequent contributor to the Messenger.
Bruce Hale – SUM member since 1992 more or less; retired insurance executive (SVP, Strategy and Product Development), currently in Chancel Choir and member of Communications and Hospitality teams plus Days for Girls ministry. Previous duties include Trustees Chair, Capital Campaign Co-chair, Church School Director, Adult Spiritual Growth Director, Staff Parish Relations committee member, Reimagine Church task forces, Methodist Youth Fellowship co-director and frequent contributor to the Messenger.
Paul Collen – SUM member since 1996; retired November 2025 after 50+ years in the banking industry, 43 as a software engineer; member of the Chancel Choir and Comms Team; technical guru who works behind the scenes so people at home can participate in our church services on YouTube.
Deb Joyce – SUM member since 2025; adjunct member of the Comms Team volunteering behind the scenes to maintain our social media coverage; broad interdisciplinary background spanning computer science, systems administration, data analysis and management, manufacturing, accounting, and public communications. In addition to her professional work, Deb has volunteered extensively with several nonprofit organizations, contributing leadership in finance, publicity, communications, and digital outreach.
Jennifer Lopez – The operational hub executing daily / weekly communications, bringing a professional background that includes experience with ESPN supporting Human Resources Executives, and Operations Director at the Granby-Simsbury Chamber of Commerce. Responsible for creating and distributing the weekly Messenger, updating the website; including uploading weekly sermons, managing livestreams, and producing Words & Wonder. Also created the LLI Facebook Page and creates marketing collateral for Little Lambs & Ivy, marketing & hiring focus.
What do we do?
Work together to provide the SUM information in a timely manner.
Regularly review the web to ensure it is up-to-date and correct (no typos).
Support all events in the church through social media posts, flyers, articles, and announcements.
Track changes at SUM that may need additional attention such as web updates, announcements…
Instrumental in the development and support of upcoming events such as Rally Day, Stewardship…
Track the communication items to ensure they receive the web, social media, and Messenger support required.
Provide suggestions or red flags to the Pastor DH, Church Council, and others if there is an item that needs additional communication.