The Rev. Dr. Brian R. Bodt is retired: not quite older than dirt, but close.  After 45 years as an ordained United Methodist pastor, Cheshire UMC is his church home while he infiltrates Congregationalists in Fairfield by working for them part-time in pastoral care.   Blessed with four wonderful sons, two “daughters” and two grandchildren (with a third arriving in June), he is doubly blessed by being married to Carol Galloway, a physical therapist in Fairfield.  They reside in Woodbridge.  Brian likes to sing, ski, run and play with all kinds of trains.

Christopher Shay is the Organist and Choir Master of the Woodbury United Methodist Church.  He conducts the Adult choir, the Bell Choir, and collaborates with the Praise Band.  The Methodist Church facilities includes a three octave set of Schulmarick handbells, a Rogers combination pipe organ, and two Yamaha stage pianos. 

Chris first joined the Methodist Church in 1975 shortly after graduating from Oberlin College Conservatory of Music.  He recently retired from teaching music in public schools but continues to teach at the University of Connecticut. 

Once Chris heard Carolyn sing 44 years ago, he decided he couldn’t live without her. Now they have six grandchildren. 

Matti Paparazzo joined us in the fall of 2022. She works closely with the pastor and other members in the church leadership to create the bulletin,  and “Living with Grace” newsletter amongst other duties in the office.

She is a local to Woodbury along with her husband and daughter. In her spare time she enjoys reading, gardening, hiking with her dogs, BBQs in the summer with friends and family, and horseback riding.