Making Gentle a Bruised World
Jesus Christ calls Grandview York to be an open and affirming, justice-seeking congregation. We worship a God who is with us and believe in the sacred worth of all people. We practice a thinking faith, taking scripture seriously, not literally.
No matter where you are on your faith journey, all (really – ALL) who come through our doors can expect a warm welcome and freshly brewed coffee, contemporary worship, preaching, inclusive community, and opportunities to serve and do justice Grandview York. We can’t wait to get to know you!
History
Grandview York was launched in May 2024, but it began as a hope and a prayer. People in York were looking for a church with a big table. They believed God had a seat for everyone – young and old, people of every race and ethnicity, every gender and sexual orientation. Eventually they visited a church in Lancaster that had a table big enough for all: Grandview Lancaster. “York needs a table like this!” they cried. Turns out the folks at Grandview Lancaster had been praying about just such an opportunity.
Since May 2024, a steady stream of friends who share this vision have joined at God’s big table. Grandview Lancaster continues to provide resources and support to our congregation as we grow towards becoming our own free-standing congregation.
Meet Our Team
Jesse North
Co-Lead Pastor (he/him/his)
Jesse graduated from Lancaster Theological Seminary in 2023 after 20+ years starting new faith communities on college campuses. He’s ordained in the PC(USA) and 3/4 time pastor of Wrightsville Presbyterian Church. Jesse is married to Liz, with a ROTC cadet at Widener University and a vegan at Bryn Mawr College, and one dog digging holes in the yard with another one judging her for it. Jesse loves inviting others to join him in enjoying his many passions including advocacy, gardening, poetry, pick-up games and Philly sports.
Liz North
Co-Lead Pastor (she/her/hers)
Liz holds certificates in teaching, coaching, and change dynamics, as well as what comes from 25+ years of planting and resourcing faith communities on college campuses in Pennsylvania, Delaware, Maryland and D.C. Liz is married to Jesse and has 2 kids off at college, and 2 dogs at home. Liz is a keen observer, a deep listener, and the person whose comment you might jot down. Liz has transformed the North yard into an oasis of native plants that pollinators and birds love – and yes, there is a metaphor for her ministry in there.
Nathan Swavely
Lead Musician (he/him/his)
Nathan has worn many hats, from analyst to engineer to data architect in the pharmaceutical and banking sectors. Throughout his career, one constant has been his passion for music—creating, performing, and leading. In early 2024, Nathan took a step back in his engineering role to immerse himself in his musical pursuits, both the sacred and the not-so-sacred. Whether rocking out with his punk band or harmonizing with his wife, Hannah, at a local farmer’s market, Nathan’s passion for music knows no bounds.
Jess Feldmann
Youth Director (she/her/hers)
Jess’s joy and commitment to teaching, nurturing, and holistically developing teens is evident in her journey. Building on her time studying church ministry and leading the women’s volleyball team to multiple playoff seasons at Messiah College, Jess grew both church youth ministry and non-profit programs in Central PA. She currently coaches high school and club volleyball, and plays in leagues and tournaments with her husband, John. Most of Jess’ days are filled with the life-giving joy of her two young children. Jess is an introvert who loves people, connects to God best through music, nature, and journaling, and enjoys an active lifestyle.
