Meet Our Staff
Pastor
Rev. Timothy Biel Jr
Reverend Timothy Biel Jr. was appointed to Skokie Central United Methodist Church on June 1, 2018. Rev. Biel began preaching in the Northern Illinois Conference in 1993. Most recently he led the following congregations to be the hands and feet of Jesus Christ in the world: Homewood: St. Andrew (2014-2018); Evergreen Park: First UMC (2008-2014); and Cary UMC (2003-2008). He specializes in Spiritual Formation and Congregation Development.
He earned degrees from Garret E.T.S. at Northwestern University and North Central College. These schools gave him opportunities to enrich his faith by learning from a diversity of leaders: Christian missionaries and pastors, Jewish playwrights, artists and songwriters, Muslim clerics, and Buddhist monks, feminist and LGBTG advocates. He has a heart for all those seeking peace and divine grace in this life.
When Pastor Tim isn't active in church leadership he spends his time with his spouse, Victoria, and two sons. Together they enjoy organic-vegan gardening and cooking, sports, reading and spending time outdoors.
Millete Silverio
Chancel Choir Director/Organist/Pianist
What a treasured talent we have in Millete! Having joined the CUMC staff in 1997, Millete still impresses the congregation, often moving us to tears, with her beautiful playing. She also accompanies the Chancel and Children’s Choirs as well as soloists and instrumentalists. Working with the Music Team and guest artists, Millete works hard to bring impactful, lively, unique musical arrangements to CUMC.
Millete began playing piano at the age of three with her mother as her first teacher and continued through college. In sixth grade she was one of the soloists that performed with the UP Symphony Orchestra. In college she joined the University of the Philippines Concert Chorus and the world renowned Philippine Madrigal Singers performing for royalty and heads of states and outreach programs. She had the privilege of traveling with them in Asia and on a six-month tour of Europe concertizing and joining choral competitions bringing home top awards.
In the Philippines, she was an accompanist for soloists, instrumentalist and choirs. She was resident pianist for the Repertory Philippines, the premier theater company. Last but not least, she was a keyboardist for a famous rock band in the Philippines.
Doris Bloom
Church Administrator
Doris joined the office staff in September of 2011 as a job sharing partner. As a member of CUMC since 1975, Doris has volunteered for many years helping in the church office with finances and the first website. Her history with the church makes her a vital part of the daily office activities.
She grew up in Minnesota graduating from the University of Minnesota with a B.S. in education. Her early career was as an elementary school teacher, and then joined North Central Airlines as a stewardess until the birth of her son, David. Her husband of 47 years passed away in 2009.
She supports the arts community as member of the Chicago Botanic Garden and a subscriber of the Lyric Opera of Chicago, Chicago Symphony and Northlight Theater.
Marides Haidari
Church Administrator
Marides Haidari is a 1.5-generation Filipino-American artist. She is a spirited individual who is continuously learning and exploring the vastness of her inner world. By doing so, Marides recognizes if she can create a strong foundation within herself through mindfulness, prayer, and creative practices; the safer Marides feels to authentically be in this world.
An artist at heart, Marides also believes art can be a powerful source of healing and connection with herself and others, particularly in exploring the themes of identity. Marides lives in Des Plaines, IL with her husband and daughter and their two rabbits Hopli and Patrick. 1.5-generation: immigrants who immigrated to the new country before or during their early teens, ages 6-12.
Ellen Mittman
Nursery Attendant
Ellen has been the nursery attendant since 2001.
She has two certificates in early childhood education--one in infant care and one in 3 to 5-year-old care. She graduated from New Trier High School.
She loves working with children.