Our Church Staff
Reverend Sanggeun Jo
“Pastor Sam” - Lead Pastor of Centenary UMC
Sanggeun Jo, also called Sam, was born and raised in South Korea where he served as a pastor of the English Ministry at Chungdong First Methodist Church in Seoul. Since coming to the US in 2014, He served as youth pastor at Monmouth Grace United Methodist Church in Eatontown for three years, as a lead pastor at Union Grove United Methodist Church and Willow Grove United Methodist Church from 2018-2022 and is now currently serving at Centenary United Methodist Church in Berlin, NJ.
He graduated from Hyupsung University in South Korea with Bachelor of Theology from Hyupsung University, and from Drew Theological School with an M.Div.
Sanggeun is passionate about how to grow spiritually in the works of the Holy Spirit and to live out a Jesus-Centered life daily. He enjoys music, especially playing the piano, guitar and drum, and sports. He is married to Katie Kim, and has a daughter, Sophia.
Denise Whitecar
Director of Music
Denise was born in Camden and grew up in Williamstown. She married her late husband, Stephen, in 1973 and they raised their two children, Rachel Whitecar Engle and Matt Whitecar together. She is blessed with 2 beautiful grandchildren, Caleb and Leah Whitecar.
Denise received her BA in Elementary Education from Glassboro State College (now Rowan University) in 1973. She taught elementary school for four years and was a piano teacher at Erial Christian School from 1995 through 2013.
In 1966 Denise joined Centenary UMC and she became the Music Director in 1979. Her past duties included Junior Vocal Choir, Children’s Handchime Choir, Faith Pealers Handbell Choir, Chancel Choir, and playing the piano. Presently, she directs the Chancel Choir and plays piano during Sunday morning worship along with her talented friends Diane Cordell (on guitar) and Sue Saccomanno (on oboe).
CUMC is blessed to have an excellent group of musicians who share their talents gracious with others. PRAISE THE LORD!
Elaine Tuttle
Director of Sunday School