St John Lutheran Church

Pastor Wilson graduated from the Lutheran Theological Seminary at Philadelphia (now the United Lutheran Seminary) in 2002 with a Masters of Divinity. Prior to attending seminary, he earned a B.B.A. degree in Computer Information Systems from Stephen F. Austin State University in Nacogdoches, TX and subsequently worked as a computer programmer in Houston for six years.

Pastor Wilson began his ministry at Redeemer Lutheran Church, McLean, VA, in June 2002 where he served as associate pastor.

Pastor Wilson accepted a call to serve as Senior Pastor at Bethel Lutheran Church, Manassas, VA, in December 2007. During his time at Bethel, he has served with the Greater Prince William Food Council, served two terms as dean of the Fairfax Conference, held the at-large seat on Synod Council, and has received training as an ELCA Level 1 coach. Additionally, Pastor Wilson enrolled in a five-year doctoral program through Luther Seminary, St. Paul, MN, in 2012 focusing on Congregational Mission and Leadership. He successfully defended his thesis that explored the possibility of diversity within congregations while maintaining unity. He graduated from that program in May 2017.

Pastor Wilson lives with his wife, Vicki, in Nokesville, VA. They have one adult daughter, Caroline, and several animals they enjoy (1 dog, 3 cats, 17 chickens, and about 40,000 Italian honey bees). Additionally, he enjoys music, reading, gardening, cooking, and projects around their home.

I was baptized in the 50's at the little white church.  My family including grandparents and great grandparents were members of St John.  I remember attending many VBS weeks as a child and mother daughter banquets.  I have served as social ministry chairperson and as property chairperson and served two terms and vice president and 4 1/2 years as president. 

My name is Carlos Palacios and I am from San Salvador, EL Salvador but currently living in Laurel, Md. I joined St. John Lutheran Church in 2018 but I was an active visitor for many years prior. I am bilingual (English and Spanish) and working towards extending my knowledge in French.

Although not born a Lutheran, I have been a member at St. John since moving to Maryland 40 years ago and finding this welcoming congregation. My children and grandchildren have been raised here.  I recently retired from 30 years in the legal department at Discovery Communications and am now able to devote more time to church activities.  I especially enjoy singing, working on Vacation Bible School, and coordinating the annual Safe Haven Homeless Shelter.

I am originally from The Gambia which is in West Africa.  I came to the US when I was 13 years old - almost 26 years ago.  I will turn 40 this year.   I love to work with children.