Staff
Joel Beachy
Pastor
Joel Beachy has served as pastor of East Union Mennonite Church since January 2016. A Kalona native, Joel returned to his home community with his wife, Christine, and their two sons, Isaac and Lucas, after several years in Mississippi, to join the ministries at East Union.
Deeply committed to community engagement, Joel volunteers at Crowded Closet, serves on the Hillcrest Academy school board, visits with residents at Pleasantview, and helps out at Crooked Creek Christian Camp. He has also worked to strengthen connections with Bethel AME of Iowa City and enjoys collaborating with pastors and congregations across the Kalona, Wellman, Washington, and Iowa City areas.
Outside of ministry, Joel loves reading, playing soccer and golf, and spending time with family and friends.
Heidi Gingerich Detweiler
Ministry Coordinator
Heidi Gingerich Detweiler has been a part of East Union since 2018, together with her husband Caleb and three children. Heidi also finds connecting with others through her work as a therapist in private practice to be life-giving. Outside of work, Heidi enjoys adventuring outdoors, reading, and baking.
Heidi is excited to begin her work in this new role and welcomes your ideas and questions about program development and spiritual formation for all ages at East Union.
Ella Wade
Office Manager
Ella is excited to join East Union and to be a part of this community in her role as office manager. As she begins her journey in the workforce, she’s grateful for the opportunity to learn new skills and be a part of the church’s mission. In her free time, Ella enjoys painting, running, reading, and spending time with friends and family.