Our Team

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Rev. Katie Hamlin

Vicar/Pastor

I grew up in central Pennsylvania but moved to Washington, DC, for my first job out of college. This area has been my home through many transitions. I met my husband here. I discerned my call to be a pastor here after working around the world for almost fifteen years in conflict transformation and international development. My three children were all born here.

Now I live in Takoma Park with my family and our dog. I love walking our local trails, camping in our state parks, and finding the best new coffee shop or restaurant. After living as a family in Thailand, we’re always up for a food adventure (but truthfully, we enjoy adventures of all sorts). 

I love being a pastor and learning how to follow Jesus and be a good neighbor alongside the people of Holy Comforter.

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Joel Chan & Anna Yong

Lead Parish Musicians

We’re Joel (pronounced Jo-el) and Anna, parents to Elias and Eliana, and happy Hyattsville residents since 2020. We both grew up making music in the church: Joel playing every band instrument in his charismatic church, and Anna as the sole musician in her traditional Brethren congregation. Music has always been the way each of us connects most naturally with God, and we’re grateful to be able to share that joy with Holy Comforter.

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Erin Payne

Lead Catechist

I’m Erin, the Lead Catechist. It brings me joy to share God's love with children and deepen my own understanding of faith through working with the Atrium at Holy Comforter. I have been a part of the Holy Comforter community since 2022 and inspired by the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd since my first time observing the Good Shepherd Atrium. I live in Hyattsville with my husband Adam and two children, Elias and Marien, where we have lived since 2016.