People
Rev. Ryan Slifka, Coordinating Minister
Ryan Slifka shepherds St. George’s as Minister of Word, Sacrament, and Pastoral Care. He was called as minister to the congregation July 1st, 2014, having previously served as Campus Minister for the United Church of Canada at UBC, and as Associate Minister at University Hill Congregation.
Though originally from Calgary, Alberta, Ryan grew up in Black Diamond, a small town just south of the city. He received his Bachelor’s from the University of Calgary, and is a graduate of Vancouver School of Theology (MDiv, 2013), where he currently serves on the Board. He was ordained by British Columbia Conference of the United Church in May of 2014.
Ryan is happily married to Cheyenne Hutt. Together they are doing their best to raise their three children: Walter, Abraham, and Martha. They both feel deeply privileged to call such a beautiful community their home.
If you are seeking community, are exploring life’s big questions, or would just like to chat, he would love to meet you. He’s always up for conversation over coffee, no matter who you are, where you are on life’s journey, or the journey of faith.
Zoe Ozirney, Office Administrator
Zoe is no stranger to church life. Born the eldest daughter in a line of Anglican ministers, she married the son of a Baptist pastor, and has worked in several church and para-church contexts. Most recently, Zoe has held administrative jobs in a few different contexts, but has also worked in software and non-profit fields. A few things she loves about working at St. George’s: connecting with church and community members, solving problems, and listening to the radio while she works.
Zoe loves the outdoors, especially hiking and camping with her two kids, husband, and their giant dog.
Maureen Bedford, Director, Music Ministry
Born and raised in Montreal, Maureen and her late husband raised their family of 4 children in Edmonton. A strong musical background in performance, vocal coaching and choral leadership, coupled with diplomas in Liturgy and Pastoral Service (Newman Theological College), equip Maureen with a unique skill set that she is delighted to bring to St. George’s worship experience. Since moving to the Comox Valley in 2013, she has enjoyed playing flute, cello and recorder in various musical ensembles as well as teaching piano to adult students. Her involvement in Music Ministry extends over 3 provinces and 4 decades.
Daniel Dowker, Accompanist
Daniel's history with St. George's began over 30 years ago when he would skateboard in front of the church with his friends. No matter how large the skate session (or how long), St George's kind spirit of hospitality shined bright, and they were never asked to leave - a true example of grace and inclusion in our community. He later joined St. George's as pianist and played during 2012 and 2013. On returning to the Valley last fall, he resumed his position as pianist and is blessed to have the privilege of playing for the members each Sunday.
Cheyenne Hutt, Children’s Church Coordinator
Cheyenne has coordinated St. George’s flourishing Children’s Church ministry since early 2025. Cheyenne was born in Revelstoke, BC. She attended the University of Calgary and earned her Bachelor of Arts in English and her Bachelor of Education and taught high school English. She met her husband, Ryan and they began their life together. Cheyenne and Ryan have been living in the Comox Valley for a decade with their three children. Cheyenne has always been passionate about education and the ways in which our Christian story can be shared with kids in a joyful and fun way. Cheyenne checks out way too many library books, enjoys going on walks, and has succumbed to the inevitable hobby of paddleboarding.
Purushottam (Puru) Dotel, Custodian
Purushottam Dotel started with St George’s in January of 2024. Puru and his wife and daughter, are recent immigrants from Nepal. In 2025, Puru and his wife welcomed a baby boy. As Christians, it was hard to practice their faith without persecution and they hope to be able to live with greater religious and political freedom here in the Comox Valley.
Rev. S. Ray Brandon, Minister Emeritus
From 1970-1992 Ray was the Lead Minister of St. George's. Ray completed his studies at Union College (now Vancouver School of Theology) and completed a Master of Theology degree at Princeton Seminary in New Jersey. During his tenure, St. George's underwent a period of growth and revitalization, a time fondly remembered by many. He has continued to attend St. George's ever since his retirement from ministry in 1992, serving in various official and unofficial capacities. He was accompanied by his beloved Pat, his partner in ministry until her passing in 2023.
Ray brings a lifetime of experience in ministry, and continue with the same passion and love for God and the world God loves.
Board of Elders
The Board of Elders is made up of those chosen for their skills, wisdom and spiritual gifts to lead the congregation. They are the governing body of the congregation.
Candice Woloshyn (Chair)
Gerry Schoberg (Secretary)
Delia Von Schilling (Vice-Chair)
Alison Mewett (Treasurer)
Carolyn Touhey
Joyce Wilson (Ministry & Personnel)
Paulina Harskamp
Kelly Allen (Property)
Niki Whittaker