Ministry Leaders
Our Ministry Leaders are passionate believers committed to sharing the message of Christ and guiding others towards faith in him.
If you have questions for any of our leaders, feel free to contact them directly.
Rev Dr. Sid Nelson
Interim Pastor
"Hello,
I'm Pastor Sid Nelson, interim pastor at St. Michael. Although I was born in Western New York, close to Buffalo, I claim Virginia as my home state. I moved to Norfolk, Virginia in my teenage years. After college, I went to the University of Virginia School of Law to become a lawyer. God had other ideas. Although I didn't complete my law degree, while in law school I was blessed to meet Sarah Anna Valenti, who became my girlfriend, my wife, and the best part of my life.
After completing my first year of law school, Sarah and I were married and I went to seminary. Upon graduation I was ordained and called to serve a church in West VIrginia for three years. I then returned to Norfolk, Virginia where I served a congregation for 30 years. Sarah and I then moved to South Florida and I have served several congregations as an interim pastor.
Sarah and I have three grown children. Our favorite activity together is internation travel. I hope that you will join me in praising God at St. Michael. We are an open and faithful fellowship. All are welcome."
Dominka Popovska
Director of Music
Dominika is a professional solo and collaborative pianist and pedagogue from N. Macedonia. She holds two Master's degrees in Piano Performance graduating best in her class. Dominika studied under the prestigious pianist and pedagogue, Irena Kofman, and has been professionally active since her teenage years. She has won more than 20 national and international awards, performing recitals in numerous festivals such as the "Ohrid Summer Festival" and the Autumn Music Gala. Dominika was the youngest member of the prestigious project "European Piano Reflections" organized in five countries including Poland, France, Moldova, Austria, and North Macedonia. Her repertoire includes a wide range of music from Baroque to Contemporary, crossing over to Jazz, popular, and worship music. As Coordinator of Music Ministry at St. Michael Lutheran Church, Dominika is committed to providing high quality worship music, working with both Adult and Children's choirs and instrumentalists.
Dona Aliot
Administrative assistant
Stop in and say "Hello" to Dona, our new administrative assistant. She grew up in Billerica, MA and moved to Florida in 2008. Her mother, Janet, was one of the first to attend the Alzheimer's Care program when it opened here on the StM campus. She still attends everyday. Dona is also a property manager, loves the beach, and was an avid horseback rider.
"I am looking forward to being a blessing in whatever way I can to serve God."