Elizabeth C. Abel is a native of the Bronx and grew up as an active member of Butler Memorial United Methodist Church. She received her Master’s of Divinity Degree from Drew Theological Seminary in May 2016. She has a Master’s of Science in Social Work from Columbia University and a Bachelor of Arts in Criminal Justice from Rutgers University. She has served in the U.S. Air Force for 12 years. She also worked in the City of Mount Vernon Youth Bureau as the director of youth programming. Rev. Abel previously worked as a Ministerial Assistant to youth and young adults at First United Methodist Church, Mount Vernon, NY. From January 2014—June 2015 she also served as the Children’s Minister and Student Pastor Intern at Church of the Village where she worked closely with pastors, parents and volunteers to develop a progressive Christian education and worship experience. Rev. Abel has a passion for young people and has significant experience with youth and families. She is the founder and developer of the Timothy Project: A Rites of Passage for Young Men and the Deborah’s Academy for Young Women. Rev. Abel is focused on developing a community focused ministry and look forward to bringing her many gifts to Woodycrest United Methodist Church and the Highbridge community.