All are welcomeClergy & Staff
The Reverend Julia Matallana Freedman, Deacon-in-Charge
Rev. Julia has lived in Rhode Island since 2018 and will be ordained as a priest in December 2025, just in time for Christmas. She was ordained to the diaconate in June 2025 in the Diocese of Massachusetts.
Originally from the West Coast, Rev. Julia grew up in several different communities before attending Westmont College, where she earned her B.A. in Religious Studies. She went on to complete her Master of Divinity at Duke Divinity School. A first-generation college graduate, she is also a published author who brings both academic depth and a heart for pastoral care to her ministry.
Jeanne Soares, Interim Parish Administrator
Jeanne Soares has been at St Mark’s since she was 9 years old (and not saying how many years that is :-D) She is very involved in all aspects of the church, including being an altar server, choir member, activities team member and assistant treasurer. She has worked in an office environment for most of her working years and enjoys this new way of connecting to people through the church.
Joyce Bernau – Director of Music
Joyce Bernau’s passion for liturgical music was sparked very early on in life when she became music director in her parish at twelve years old. Since that time, she has served as Music Minister for decades in Wisconsin, California and Rhode Island. Joyce has expressed her love of directing choirs, plorking (playing + working) with children, and in general, making music with a community of believers as “food for my soul.”
In addition to her music ministry at St. Mark’s, she teaches music at Central High School in Providence, RI. and attends Salve Regina University where she will graduate in May.
Joyce welcomes all children, teens and adults who wish to share their musical gifts on a one-time, seasonal, or permanent basis at liturgical celebrations.
Most notably, Joyce is grateful to be a part of this welcoming, vibrant parish and is honored to serve as Music Director/Music Minister.
Nikki Barlow – Sexton
Nikki comes to St. Mark’s with 30 years of cleaning experience. She enjoys her work and serves a number of businesses and individuals in Rhode Island.