Staff
Clergy
Rev. Dr. Johnsie Cogman
Dr. Cogman is the District Superintendent for the Two Rivers District of the Baltimore-Washington Conference, and is also serving as St. Paul’s pastor until we receive our next pastoral appointment.
Dr. Cogman has an extensive background of experience in education and ministry holding a Master of Science in Education, a Master of Divinity, and a Doctorate of Ministry from Wesley Theological Seminary in Washington, DC. Prior to becoming District Superintendent she pastored several churches in the greater DC area including Mt. Zion UMC in Georgetown and Zion Wesley UMC in Waldorf. Before entering ministry, she was an educator for Prince George’s County Public Schools.
In a recent discussion with the congregation, Dr. Cogman said that during her time at St. Paul she will be emphasizing open communication with all members, cooperation with existing church leadership and committees, and her ongoing efforts to ensure that St. Paul’s spiritual and tangible needs are met.
Lay Staff
Sherry Mervine, Children & Youth Leader, Music Minister
In addition to serving as St. Paul’s Children and Youth Leader, Sherry currently serves as the music minister, pianist, and choir director.
Sherry has been attending St. Paul for over 20 years, during which she has been the VBS director for five years.
She celebrated her 30th year as a vocal teacher in the 2024-2025 school year. During that time she has also served as a PTA officer for both Appeal Elementary (before it became PAC) and Southern Middle School in the roles of President, Vice President, and Treasurer. She also served as President and Treasurer of the Calvert Countywide PTA for a total of 5 years. Sherry has also been an active scouting leader in Calvert County for over 14 years.
Sherry has dedicated her life to serving the needs of children and young adults in her classroom and in her community. She strives to help them grow in moral character, build self-esteem and confidence, increase local/global society awareness, and demonstrate courage as they explore their interests and talents to start on their path for life goals.
Nerissa Curtin, Office Manager & Treasurer
Nerissa joined the staff as Office Manager in April 2024 and later as our Treasurer in February 2026.
She has been married to her husband, Chris, since 2003 and is the proud mom of two kids and two cats. As a longtime military spouse, she had the opportunity to live in seven states and two countries before settling in Calvert County in 2015. Over the past two decades, she has served with various military, community, and faith‑based organizations, bringing her heart for service wherever she goes.
Nerissa is also a Certified United Methodist Church Administrator and an active member of PAUMCS (the Professional Administrators of the United Methodist Connectional Structure), further strengthening the gifts she brings to our staff.
By stepping into her role on our support team, Nerissa uses her strengths in administration, compassion, and helping to bless everyone who walks through our doors. She is a joyful presence in the office—always ready with a listening ear and a warm, welcoming smile.
Cindy Shippert, Finance Secretary
financemanager@stpaulumc-lusby.org
Cindy Shippert joined the staff as Finance Manager in April of 2024 and later became our Finance Secretary in February 2026.
As of August 2024, Cindy has been married to her husband, Paul, for 40 years. They have lived in Calvert County for 36 years and are proud parents of three adult daughters and grandparents to three wonderful grandsons. Cindy has been a faithful member of St. Paul UMC for many years.
For fun, Cindy enjoys bowling, reading a wide variety of books, and watching her favorite forensic and mystery shows like CSI Chicago and NCIS. She especially loves spending time with her grandsons.
Cindy brings a huge heart and a loving smile wherever she goes, making her a cherished part of the St. Paul family.
Missy Smith, Custodian
Missy Smith, shown here on the left, is the newest addition to our St. Paul UMC staff who joined us in December 2025. She has already become a sweet and cheerful part of the St. Paul family, always greeting everyone with a warm smile. Her presence brings a wonderful spirit to our church, and we feel blessed to have her with us.
Be sure to say hello if you see her around the building—she’s excited to get to know our church community!