Pastor Franklin Morales: Pastor of La Sagrada Familia
Pastor Franklin Morales was born in Venezuela and is a former Catholic priest. He did his philosophical studies in Venezuela, his theological studies in Rome and a one-year internship in Central America where he had first-hand contact with the realities of poverty, criminal gangs, inequality and hunger that force many of our Central American brothers and sisters to emigrate from their countries of origin looking for a better future for themselves and their families.
Pastor Franklin discovered in Lutheran theology, a gospel that seeks liberation and equality for all people without distinction, through ways of justice and peace, where the relationship with God through prayer is manifested in service to the most needy and with creation.
Nancy Gurganus: Art Teacher
I am a graduate of the Maryland Institute, College of Art (MICA), Baltimore, MD, with a BFA majoring in Graphic Design & Illustration. As a graphic designer, I have worked for the Maryland-National Capital Park & Planning Commission, Prince George’s County Memorial Library System, Pat Marshall Design & the AD Store. I have also worked as a substitute teacher in Montgomery County Schools. I continue to freelance and to broaden my own creative development. Currently and for the past 15 years, I have served as Artist-in-Residence at Georgetown University Hospital PICU. And more recently, in the capacity of Artist-in-Residence, I have had the privilege of working with our Wounded Warriors, their families, and staff at Walter Reed Army Medical Center.
In a volunteer capacity, I have many years of experience in developing and conducting art programs with pre-school to high school students, and for adults. It continues to be a great source of creative discovery and delight. Each week I lead the children of La Sagrada Familia in an art class.
Nancy Gurganus
nancy.gurganus@gmail.com
Don and Aggie Steinbach: Teachers
Don and Aggie Steinbach earned their Bachelor of Science degree in Education from Concordia Teachers College, River Forest, Illinois on June 2, 1961. Don continued his education and earned his Masters of Arts in Theology from Valparaiso University in 1972. Don was an educator for 45 years and retired in 2003. Aggie began her carrier as an educator, worked in retail for 15 years, and recently retired from the position of chef at Meals on Wheels, after serving the agency for 23 years.
Don and Aggie regularly worship at Saint Luke Lutheran Church and are involved in many volunteer activities in their congregation. Being retired, Don and Aggie enjoy volunteering three days a week at La Sagrada Familia. They assist in teaching English as a Second Language, religious instruction, and help in the various after school programs.
“We have been blessed by the La Sagrada Familia ministry in many ways and it has been such a wonderful experience for both of us.”
Aggie and Don Steinbach