Westminster staff
Rev. Dr. Todd E. Leach
Senior Pastor
The Reverend Dr. Todd E. Leach has been serving as the Senior Pastor of Westminster Presbyterian Church since September 2021. Before joining Westminster, Dr. Leach dedicated thirteen years as Associate Pastor for Mission at Shadyside Presbyterian Church in Pittsburgh, PA. His career also includes serving as Director of Mission and Deacon Ministries at Media Presbyterian Church in suburban Philadelphia, as well as Executive Director of the Delaware County Housing Coalition in Chester, PA. He was also a middle school teacher in Columbus, Ohio.
Dr. Leach’s academic achievements include a Doctor of Ministry in Public Theology from Drew University, a Master of Divinity from Eastern Baptist Theological Seminary, and a Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education from Ohio University.
Dr. Leach, his wife, Linda, and their daughters, Nadia and Vinodhini (Dhini), along with their two beloved dogs, have embraced the city of Buffalo and are honored to contribute to the life and spirit of the community they now call home.
Rev. Beth hennessy
Pastoral Care associate
The Reverend Beth Hennessy has served as the part-time Pastoral Care Associate at Westminster since April 2013. In this role, she offers compassionate pastoral support to senior members through home visits, outreach in long-term care facilities, and hospital visitations. Rev. Hennessy also provides guidance and comfort to members facing personal challenges, life transitions, and end-of-life concerns.
Originally from Indiana, Rev. Hennessy earned her Master of Divinity from McCormick Theological Seminary in Chicago, where she deepened her commitment to ministry and pastoral care. Known for her empathetic approach and dedication to building meaningful connections within the congregation, she brings warmth and understanding to her work.
Outside of her ministry, Rev. Hennessy enjoys traveling, delving into family genealogy, and spending quality time with her husband and two adult children. She finds joy in spoiling the family dog, Scotty, and embraces moments that foster both personal and spiritual growth.
Garrett F. martin
organist and director of music ministries
Garrett F. Martin has been a dedicated member of the Westminster staff since 2013, where he serves as Director of Music Ministries. Garrett directs and oversees the church's choirs, plans worship and liturgy, and ensures the maintenance of the church's renowned musical instruments, including two Aeolian-Skinner organs and five Steinway grand pianos. Additionally, he coordinates the “Westminster Presents” series and visiting artists, as well as conducts and performs for all worship and special services.
Garrett's leadership extended beyond Westminster when he served as Artistic Director of the Buffalo Gay Men’s Chorus for five years. An accomplished organist and recognized artist for the Rodgers Organ Company, he has recorded over 40 video performances available online, showcasing his passion for music excellence.
A native of Tennessee, Garrett's career includes previous church music positions in Tennessee, Florida, and Texas. He holds music degrees from Carson-Newman University, Vanderbilt University, and the University of Texas at Austin. His major teachers include renowned musicians Gerre and Judith Hancock, Peter Fyfe, Carl Smith, and J. Ryan Garber.
Garrett and his partner, Chris, reside in Buffalo with their beloved long-haired dachshund, Godfrey.
Sawrie Becker
director of Development
Sawrie has served as the Director of Development since 2016 and is responsible for the church’s advancement efforts including annual, planned and memorial giving, special campaigns, and events. Sawrie also leads efforts to welcome visitors and new members to the church. As a trained life coach, she has worked with individuals and small business owners to achieve personal and business success and as a dedicated community leader Sawrie has led successful advocacy efforts on behalf of women in the areas of pay equity and domestic violence awareness. Sawrie enjoys spending time with her family and friends, being creative, and taking walks with her dog, Dolly.
Julie brooks
director of finaNce
Julie joined Westminster in the Spring of 2022 as the Director of Finance. She is responsible for the financial affairs of the church and early childhood programs. She has extensive experience in the non-profit sector. Julie is on the steering committee for the Make Lemon Aide Foundation for Cerebral Palsy and enjoys cooking and gardening. She is married and has two children.
Jamie Adamczyk
administrative assistant
Jamie has been a valued member of Westminster Presbyterian Church since 1987, beginning her journey as a teacher assistant in the Early Childhood Program before transitioning to the church staff in 2011 as an administrative assistant.
Outside of work, Jamie enjoys spending quality time with her parents who love card games and family and friends. Jamie’s husband, three children, and grandson keep her busy!
Lindsay mcguire
human resources
Lindsay joined Westminster in 2019 as the Human Resources Manager for Westminster Presbyterian Church and Westminster Early Childhood Program (WECP). She oversees the daily operations of human resources, training and development, employee relations, and policy administration.
Outside of work, Lindsay enjoys skiing, golfing, and playing tennis, traveling, and spending time with her husband, Patrick, two young children, family, and friends.
