Say Hello to Our Leadership Team
The church is guided by a team of servant-hearted leaders known as elders and deacons—a term rooted in the Bible.
Both men and women, recognised by the church family for their gifts, character, and calling, serve together as part of this leadership team
Satyajit (Sat) Deodhar
Minister / Elder
I’m all about the three T’s: Theology, Technology, and a good cup of Tea!
For me, the church is all about being one big family of God, growing together in love and faith. When I’m not diving into tech updates or playing computer games, you’ll find me unwinding in the kitchen—my happy place! I love cooking, listening to music, and sipping on a nice cup of tea. If you spot me, feel free to say hello—I’ll likely have my tea cup close by!
Helen Atkinson
Elder / Safeguarding Coordinator
I’ve enjoyed being part of the Countess community for over 30 years, serving with the children’s work and leading small groups. I love spending time with people of all ages and I work in a local primary school. My husband Julian and I share our home with adult family and occasional extras. For peace and quiet, you’ll find me swimming in open water, whatever the season!
Emad Youssef
Deacon/ Building Maintenance
Having moved to Ely 8 years ago, my family and I soon became members of Countess where we have been ever since. I joined the leadership team almost 3 years ago and am involved in leading services and preaching regularly. Together with a great team, I lead the Young Families Group. Outside the church, I enjoy travelling for both leisure and ministry, and I work in the Electrical Engineering field.
Phil Murfitt
Deacon/ Building Maintenance
The Countess Church in Ely has been a special family to me since I met my wife Emily 31 years ago. We were married and had our two children dedicated here. Throughout that time I have enjoyed being part of the worship team, hitting a beat on the drums. In the week I spend my time travelling around the UK looking after robotic diagnostic equipment in hospitals.
Stas Vetoshkin
Deacon/ Finance Oversight
Countess has been my home church since I moved to Ely from St Petersburg. My wife, Issy, and I are part of the youth team and we are passionate about seeing young people grow in faith and be supported by our church in their daily lives. I work in the tech department at John Lewis and in my spare time I love running, paddle-boarding, seeing friends and occasionally, you might even find me fishing!
Graham Jarrett
Deacon/ Health and Safety
I have been a member of the Countess church for 20 years and have served on the leadership team several times.
I occasionally lead Sunday services and can often be found operating the sound desk. I’m married to Gillian and have two grown-up children who now live away from the area.
I enjoy keeping bees, sea-kayaking, and cycling in my spare time.
Dawn Maclure
Deacon/Pastoral Care Coordinator
My husband, children and I moved to Ely from Hertfordshire in 2008. Douglas and I have been leading the musical worship at Countess since then.
I enjoy walking alongside others in friendship, sharing the highs and lows of life and growing together in relationship with Jesus.
In my spare time I enjoy gardening, singing, baking and spending time with my family.
Sussanne Jessop
Deacon
I’m married to Jonathan and we have two teenage daughters, Naomi and Ella. We joined the Countess family in 2010. I enjoy being part of the team leading the children’s groups on a Sunday morning and I’ve recently rejoined the Two by Two Toddler group team. During the week, I work as a children’s speech and language therapist and in my free time I like gardening, walking and running.