Our Team

Beth M. Doriani, CLP, PhD, has preached throughout Hampton Roads and has served in lay ministry for decades. Seminary-trained as well as a former professor and leader in higher education, she is a commissioned pastor in the East Central Presbytery of ECO.  Beth brings to CLH gifts in preaching, teaching, pastoral care, and evangelism. She lives in Chesapeake with her husband, Chris; their three adult children live nearby.

Paul R. Schaefer, DPhil, has the special gift of preaching.  After a long career as a professor and department chair of Bible and Religion at a Christian college, he joins us primarily as preacher and teacher.  He has served as the primary preacher at a church for over 26 years.  He lives in Chesapeake with his wife, Bonnie, and they have two adult childen.

Debra Heath-Thornton, PhD, advises us on our online and multi-cultural outreach.  With her advanced studies in sociology and the city, along with decades of experience in online education and services, she has a heart for reaching those who come to us through our Remote Connections ministry.  Based in Philadelphia, PA, Debra brings gifts in leadership, strategy, and creative outreach.

Bonnie M. Schaefer, CLP, MBA, brings to CLH her long experience both in ministry and in business and accounting.  She served in leadership at another ECO church for over 20 years before moving to Chesapeake with her husband Paul, and she is experienced in leading worship, music, and evangelism, which she continues to do at CLH as a commissioned pastor. We're pleased she can offer us her gifts in business leadership to manage the "back of the house" functions at CLH.