515-278-0466

eric@aldersgatedsm.org

Eric is a graduate of Central College in Pella, Iowa and Candler School of Theology in Atlanta, Georgia. He was ordained as an Elder and elected into full membership in the Iowa Annual Conference in 1998.

Prior to his current appointment at Aldersgate, Eric served as lead pastor at Des Moines, First United Methodist Church (2013-2019), Leadership Development Minister for Young Adult and Generational Ministries (2007-2013), and Director of Youth and Young Adult Ministries (2001-2007) for the Iowa United Methodist Conference, Pastor at United Methodist churches in Perry, Rippey and Fairview (1994-2001) and Associate for University Student Ministries at Collegiate United Methodist Church/Wesley Foundation in Ames (1993-1994).

Eric is married to Naomi Sea Young Wittstruck and is the father of two adult sons, Tad and Jonah.

515-278-0466

ian@aldersgatedsm.org

Ian is a proud graduate of Austin Presbyterian Theological Seminary with a Masters in Youth Ministry.  In partnership with APTS, he has also completed a residency program with the Center for Youth Ministry Training.  Prior to working with the children at Aldersgate, he has served as the youth director at various churches of different denominations.

Ian is originally from South Florida and is excited to experience the change of seasons that only comes from living in the Midwest.  

515-278-0466

ariel@aldersgatedsm.org

Ariel Genheimer majored in music education at Simpson College and taught band for three and a half years before attending massage school in 2006. She also started attending Aldersgate at that time, and she has been active in the music programs here ever since. Ariel has a busy massage therapy practice in Urbandale. Her family includes husband Steve, daughter Meira, and adopted dog Gemma.