We are grateful for the faithful staff, leaders, and volunteers who help guide the ministry and mission of
Branchs Baptist Church. We invite you to learn more about the people who serve our church
family and community.
Serving Christ together at Branchs Baptist Church.
Church Staff
Meet the staff members who serve our church family through pastoral leadership, worship, administration, and care.
Raised and educated in Europe and the US, Pastor Sam Grozdanov brings a fresh perspective to the Christian faith and life to contemporary US culture. He is a serious student of the Bible who loves helping people connect with God. He and his wife, Snezana, enjoy reading, gardening, fishing, traveling, and spending time with their two children and five grandchildren.
Pastor
Arlene Guzmán
It is a pleasure to greet you in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ. I was born and grew up in Puerto Rico surrounded by a Christian family. In 2004, I made Richmond, Virginia my home. I am a wife, mother, and grandmother.
In 1996, I graduated as a high-fashion designer from the Academia Carlota Alfaro. In 2003, I graduated from the Instituto Teológico Asambleas de Iglesias Cristianas (Theological Institute Assemblies of Christian Churches). In 2004, I obtained a certificate from the Ministerio de Formación (Formation Ministry) of The John Leland Center for Theological Studies in Arlington, Virginia. In 2012, I was ordained as pastor by Branch's Baptist Church and since then have been pastoring the Latino Ministry Casa Refugio de Amor de Branch's. I also work as a radio program host for the Christian radio Poder 1380 AM in Richmond, Virginia and 88.1 FM in New Jersey.
It has pleased God to take me by the hand through different ministries and to prepare me to work for His Kingdom. I have been tested like gold. I have seen God's Glory in times of abundance and in times of scarcity. I am blessed because I have the privilege to serve God. Ebenezer: thus far the Lord has helped me!
God has great blessings for His children. God continues accomplishing His purpose in my life and I know he wants to do the same in yours. I look forward to meeting you and sharing the Word of God with you.
I would like very much to greet you and give you a hug on behalf of God. Visit us soon! We're expecting you!
Your sister in Christ,
Pastor Arlene Guzmán
Es un placer saludarles en el nombre de nuestro Señor Jesucristo. Nací y crecí en Puerto Rico, rodeada de una familia cristiana. En el año 2004 establecí mi hogar en Richmond, Virginia. Soy esposa, madre y abuela.
En 1996 me gradué como diseñadora de alta costura de la Academia Carlota Alfaro. En 2003 me gradué del Instituto Teológico Asambleas de Iglesias Cristianas. En 2004 obtuve un certificado del Ministerio de Formación del Centro John Leland para Estudios Teológicos en Arlington, Virginia. En 2012 fui ordenada como pastora por la Iglesia Bautista Branch's, y desde entonces he estado pastoreando el Ministerio Latino Casa Refugio de Amor de Branch's. También trabajo como conductora de programas radiales en la emisora cristiana Poder 1380 AM en Richmond, Virginia, y en 88.1 FM en Nueva Jersey.
Ha sido la voluntad de Dios tomarme de la mano a través de diferentes ministerios y prepararme para trabajar en Su Reino. He sido probada como el oro. He visto la gloria de Dios tanto en tiempos de abundancia como en tiempos de escasez. Soy bendecida porque tengo el privilegio de servir a Dios. ¡Ebenezer: hasta aquí nos ha ayudado el Señor!
Dios tiene grandes bendiciones para Sus hijos. Él continúa cumpliendo Su propósito en mi vida, y sé que desea hacer lo mismo en la suya. Espero tener la oportunidad de conocerle y compartir con usted la Palabra de Dios.
Me gustaría mucho saludarle y darle un abrazo en el nombre de Dios. ¡Visítenos pronto! ¡Le estamos esperando!
Su hermana en Cristo,
Pastora Arlene Guzmán
Worship Minister
Becky Hopkins
Becky Hopkins got an early start in worship music, landing her first church staff job at the age of 15. After completing her education at Liberty and Florida State Universities, she worked as a musician, teacher and worship minister before coming to Branch's in 2020. Becky is grateful for the opportunity to oversee church music programs, finding great joy in inspiring others to connect with God through song. She draws on God's Word and a wide range of musical style to help children, adults, and seniors know, love, and worship the Lord in Spirit and in Truth. Becky is married to her ministry partner and best friend, Kevin. They are parents to three amazing children and two of the most beautiful grandchildren in the world. Becky loves discovering new music, traveling, reading, spending time with family, and sewing with friends.
Office Manager
Cathy Marshall
A long-time resident of Branch's local community, Cathy joined our staff on January 20, 2020, bringing over 30 years of experience in church administration to her new role. With a sense of true calling, she finds great joy and contentment in serving God's church and His people. In addition, Cathy answered a call to serve in church music over 40 years ago and is the accompanist at Bethel Baptist Church in Midlothian. Her passion for music is matched only by her lifelong love of animals—fostered through 4-H programs that included music, horse, and veterinary science projects. Cathy met her husband, Dennis, through their shared love of horses and rodeo, and they married in 1982. Today, Dennis is a beekeeper, and together they care for five very spoiled cats. In her spare time, Cathy enjoys Southern Gospel music, knitting, crafting with her mother, and spending time with family.
Office/Worship Assistant
Barbara Bowen
Barbara Bowen is a lifelong Virginia resident who began serving at Branch’s in June 2025. She joined the team at the conclusion of a nearly 35-year career in federal and state government communications. Her last position as the state public information officer for USDA Rural Development offered a great opportunity to share the stories of people living in small towns across the Commonwealth.
In this next phase of life, Barbara is committed to using her time and talents to serve the Lord. She is active in her home church, Winn’s Baptist, chairing the Missions Committee and participating in various ministry activities. When she’s not working, Barbara enjoys reading, beach trips, walks in nature, and spending time with friends and family.
Security Manager
Stephen Oliver
Stephen Oliver serves as the Security Manager for Branch's Baptist Church, helping to provide a safe and welcoming environment for our congregation and guests. He works behind the scenes to support the ministry of the church and the well-being of all who gather here.
Church Treasurer
Lois Jennings
Lois Jennings faithfully serves as the Church Treasurer for Branch's Baptist Church. Through her dedication and careful stewardship, she helps support the ministries and mission of our church by overseeing its financial responsibilities with integrity and care.
Sunday School Superintendent
Steve Williamson
Steve Williamson faithfully serves as the Sunday School Superintendent for Branch's Baptist Church as a dedicated volunteer. He works alongside our teachers and church leaders to support the Sunday School ministry and help create opportunities for people of all ages to grow in their faith and understanding of God's Word.
