Our Leaders
Rev. James I. Cogman joins Trinity as interim pastor beginning January 1, 2025.
Rev. Cogman is a dynamic leader and visionary serving as a provisional elder in the Baltimore-Washington Conference of the United Methodist Church. A former student-athlete and Magna Cum Laude graduate of Claflin University in Orangeburg, South Carolina, Rev. Cogman has a deep passion for blending education, faith, and community service.
In 2016, Rev. Cogman embarked on a transformative journey at Yale University, earning a Master of Divinity on a full scholarship and completing the degree in 2019. His formative experiences included serving as a seminary intern at Hope United Methodist Church in Southfield, MI, and at The United Methodist Church of the Resurrection in Leawood, KS, where he honed his pastoral and leadership skills. His commitment to lifelong learning continued in 2022 when he joined Georgetown University, once again on a full scholarship, to pursue his Master of Business Administration, completed in May 2024.
Rev. Cogman’s pastoral journey is marked by impactful leadership. During his tenure as lead pastor of Bethel United Methodist Church in Flint, MI, he spearheaded innovative initiatives, including the construction and dedication of a basketball court, establishing one of the largest COVID-19 testing sites, and launching a thriving young adult ministry. Currently, as the lead pastor of West Montgomery United Methodist Church in Dickerson, MD, he has revitalized church attendance, strengthened the youth ministry, and introduced a vibrant young adult ministry. An arts enthusiast, sports lover, and avid traveler, Rev. Cogman finds joy in connecting with people and creating spaces where worship and community flourish.
He is the proud son of CMSgt (Ret.) Billy Cogman and Washington-East District Superintendent Rev. Dr. Johnsie Cogman and the twin brother of the United Methodist Chaplain at Howard University, Rev. Jacob Cogman.
Our Staff
Sarah Utz, Godly Play coordinator –
Sarah is a longtime member of Trinity and a graduate of Wesley Theological Seminary. After retiring from a career at the US Department of Education, Sarah joined the Trinity staff as our Godly Play coordinator. Sarah holds certifications from the Godly Play Foundation and supervises the team of volunteers who form our Children’s Ministry. You can reach Sarah at family(at)trinity-germantown(dot)org
Additional Staff:
Sally Glick, Administrator – office(at)trinity-germantown(dot)org
Kristina Leach, Facility Coordinator – kristinadl(at)trinity-germantown(dot)org
Tracey Flater, Bookkeeper – accounting(at)trinity-germantown(dot)org
Kimberly Blanchard, Accompanist
Caelan Ryberg, Song Leader
Our Leadership Structure
A Discipleship Council oversees our mission and ministry with people of all ages. They set the spiritual vision of the church and help us to invite, engage and support the Germantown community on its journey of faith. Ricky Ballew is the current Chair of the Discipleship Council. The Discipleship Council meets monthly, usually on the 2nd Monday evening of the month.
An Administrative Council handles the finances, building, and staff needs. They are committed to stewarding the resources of the church in ways that support our mission and ministry. Samantha Rebuck will begin her term as Chair of the Administrative Council on January 1, 2025. The Administrative Council meets monthly, usually on the 3rd Monday evening of the month.