Our Staff
rev. Michael strickland, Mdiv, ma, Pastor
Rev. Michael Strickland took the helm as our newest Pastor in January 2025. Pastor Michael earned his MDiv at Mercer University, and an MA in Near Eastern Languages and Civilizations at University of Chicago. Among his peers, Michael is known for his distinctive blend of rigorous intellectual engagement and deep personal faith. His theology is characterized by a commitment to historical Christianity while also engaging critically with modern challenges.
While admittedly an academic at heart with a deep love of the languages of the Bible, Michael focuses more on the big picture of presenting a cohesive and relevant understanding of Christian doctrine, often involving a thorough examination of Scripture, church history, and philosophy and literature.
Pastor Michael has been married to his wife April for over 20 years. They have four children. He is a native of northwest Indiana. He enjoys biking, hiking, camping, and film photography. Music and story make up a big part of his life as well, and so he is never too far away from a guitar or a book.
dr. andrei liquer, PhD, Director of Music
Dr. Andrei Liquer has served as our Director of Music since 2022. A concert pianist, collaborator, and accompanist, he holds Master’s and PhD degrees in Music Psychology and Performance. He has studied in Brazil, Canada, and the US. As a scholar, Dr. Liquer has published extensively and lectured at international congresses and symposiums in music psychology. His research explores the understanding of music practices, emotional communication, and multisensory skills in learning.
An active soloist and ensemble member in the Chicago area, Dr. Liquer has performed with members of the Chicago Symphony Orchestra and was featured in the Chicago Opera Festival in 2024.
In addition to his artistic endeavors, Dr. Andrei Liquer shares his passion for music through masterclasses and teaching. In addition to serving as Music Director at CBC, he serves as a piano faculty member at New Music School.
Born and reborn through baptism, Andrei hails from a Pentecostal home where he was nurtured in mission and has shared his musical gifts with the church since his earliest years. For him, being part of a Christian community is not merely a privilege, but a calling—a divine purpose to serve with his talents and unwavering dedication.
robyn hopping, Church Administrative Assistant
Robyn joined our staff in 2023 and keeps us organized and on task by running the church office. Robyn has been an area resident for over 30 years. She loves spending time with her family. She enjoys her two dogs, as well as fostering dogs before adoption. She likes to read in her spare time.