Debra Baker, re-election, 2nd term
After retiring from a decades-long career as a Washington journalist, I knew I was destined for something more. For several years, that little voice in my head was pushing me even more toward the church, even though I had been so active in two different congregations over the years. Finally, while listening to a sermon one Sunday, that little voice said, “what are you waiting for?” and I found myself in seminary, soaking up everything Christian theology.
Those three years of classes were the hardest I ever worked, but I loved every minute and everything I learned has been put to good use. Joining St. James was one of the best decisions I’ve ever made; it’s a wonderful church home with so many opportunities.
Working within the church is one of my greatest privileges, and the last few years here at St. James is no exception. I have been on Church Council for the past two years as Secretary, and I would love to serve a second term.
On a more personal note, besides my wonderful husband, I have a son, one grand-dog, two Siamese cats and a mini dachshund. I love to cook/bake, read, sew, feather our nest and do whatever I can to proclaim God’s glory wherever and to whomever I can.
Kristine Scott, 1st term
I was born and raised in Gettysburg, but moved away when I was 25 years old. My husband, Kirby Scott, and I were married in 1990 and lived at the Jersey Shore for 15 years, where we welcomed two daughters, Ashley and Emily. We then moved to Bucks County, PA until retirement.
After my husband‘s retirement in 2014, we moved back to my hometown. We searched for a church that we thought would be a good fit for us, and that church ended up being Saint James Lutheran Church. What a great decision we made!
I have been filling in the remaining term of a vacant council seat since October 2025. The last 7 months have been very positive and fulfilling. My husband and I are very grateful to be members of the St. James community. Therefore, I am seeking election to council for a full first term.
Mark Withrow, re-election, 2nd term
I am a Pennsylvania native having grown up in western PA in the city of Washington. After my schooling I located to Virginia and lived there for 38 years. My wife, Sonja, and I moved to Gettysburg, the best place I have ever lived, in 2019.
While in Virginia I raised two sons, Alex and Jason. Alex and his wife, Allie, remain in northern Virginia. My son, Jason, passed away in 2016. Sonja and I married in 2005, and three more children came into my life. Will lives in Brunswick, Maryland, Neal and family live in Dallas, Texas, and Katie and family live in Seattle, Washington. Sonja and I enjoy all things Adams County. This is a place of great opportunity and community.
St. James provides many opportunities to be of service. From being an usher to making fastnachts to helping with the Christmas breakfast to serving on various church committees, I have been provided a path to meet people, make new friends, be of service to God, and have a great deal of fun. One of my greatest joys is being part of the Common Ground Recovery Community here at St. James.
I am finishing my first term on church council and am seeking election to a second term. While on council I have served as vice president and currently serve as council president. I look forward to continuing service to St. James.
I truly believe St. James is the greatest church there is!
Denise Wood, 1st term
My family moved to Gettysburg when I was eight years old, so I’m not a native, but I did grow up here. Our church was Fairfield Mennonite; I think my experience there instilled in me an appreciation for and commitment to community and social justice, although I couldn’t have articulated it then.
After attending Oberlin College and majoring in East Asian Studies and Linguistics, I worked in public broadcasting in Washington DC and then in New York City as COO of AIGA, the professional association for design.
I retired to Gettysburg 10 years ago to be closer to family. Being the daughter of Norma Wood has made it easy to get to know so many people at St. James and in the larger community!
Here at St. James, I am a member of the AV team as well as the Reconciling in Christ and Worship & Music committees; I also serve as the coordinator for worship assistance, so many of you hear from me regularly! I have always tried to look for ways to make a difference; I would be honored to serve on the Congregation Council as St. James and our community navigate the challenges we all face together.
Gabbi Scavitto, Youth Representative, 2nd 1-year term
Gabbi lives in Gettysburg with her parents, older sister (Emili), younger brother (Nick), her dog (Liberty) and cat (Mochi).
She attends Gettysburg High School where plays multiple sports – field hockey, basketball, soccer and track & field. She also plays viola, sings in the chorus and is part of the Mini-THON club.
Gabbi is an active member of the St. James Youth Group and was confirmed last year.
Gabbi served on the Church Council in 2025/2026 and is looking forward to serving on Church Council again for 2026/2027 as the Youth Representative. She plans to attend her first Synod Assembly this June. Gabbi has shared her voice at council meetings, given lovely devotions, and represents the St. James Youth with great enthusiasm. We look forward to Gabbi serving on Council again!
