Our Staff
-
Eric Landin, Lead Pastor
Eric has served as lead pastor at BCC since 2017. With a background in philosophy and theology, his hope is that all would know the transforming love of Jesus Christ, and that in everything that we do our Lord and God would be praised and glorified. He’s in ministry because he loves God and loves people.
In his spare time, you may find Eric spending time with his family, jogging or cycling, or gardening. Eric and Alanna have been married since 2009 and have two lovely children, Aimee and Jeremiah. Together, the Landins love music, art, and dance, going out to eat, and enjoying the outdoors.
-
Matt Kijowski, Worship Arts Director
Matt lives in Norwood Park with his wife, Dorcas, who is also a worship director. He has been serving in worship ministry since he was in elementary school and graduated from North Park University with a degree in Music in Worship in 2017.
Matt enjoys going for walks with his wife and puppy, Mochi, trying different foods and desserts, and restoring and upgrading cars.
-
Patty Hofmann, Next Gen Ministries Director
Patty Hofmann studied Philosophy, Biology and Theology at Judson University and Wheaton College. She has worked for 30 years in various medical settings from nursing homes, assisted living, rehabilitation and Immediate Care. Patty has also served in Children's Ministry and Youth MInistry in various roles over the past 15 years and has been a homeschool educator for 10 years. These experiences have given Patty a deep appreciation for the way God loves us through all stages of life and how important intergenerational relationships are.
Patty describes herself as "saved by grace and following Jesus" and loves to invite people along for the journey. She enjoys exploring God's beautiful creation with her husband Chris, her two boys, Noah and Micah and their 2 dogs Copper and Penny. Some of her favorite things include music, movies, singing, playing board games, reading, gardening, and learning new things.
-
Leesa Urben, Preschool Director
Leesa Urben serves as our Preschool Director, a role she has filled with joy and care since 2009. She has a professional background in early childhood education. Under her leadership, the preschool staff and families have thrived in a caring, God-centered environment. In her free time, Leesa enjoys spending time with her husband Dan, and her three adult children. You might find her baking, puzzling, birdwatching, or delighting in God’s glorious creation!
-
Jen Coyle, Office Assistant
Jen has been involved with Batavia Covenant Preschool since 2012 as both of her children attended. She began teaching at the preschool in 2018 and began as assistant director in 2021. In 2022, Jen became the Office Assistant where she helps to support all ministries at Batavia Covenant Church. She loves to find ways to help spread the love of God to all people!
Jen has been married to her husband Ed since 2004 and they have two children, Maelynn and Gage. In her free time, Jen loves to spend time with her family and watch her children’s musical and sporting events. She loves to teach children’s yoga, practice yoga, be outdoors, and read.
-
Gary Warner, Office Manager
Gary Warner is happily married to his wife (Teacher) Jill. They were both born and raised in the southwest suburbs of Chicago, became high school sweethearts, married, and moved to North Aurora. They have been a part of Batavia Covenant Church since 2001.
Over the years, Gary has served in a number of leadership roles in the church, including leading an ongoing Bible study every Sunday morning. He began serving in his new role as office manager in January 2024. Gary’s passion for the church and God’s people are evident in everything that he does.
In his free time, you’ll find Gary gardening, playing guitar, tending his orchids, or enjoying fresh air out on the golf course.