Lead PASTOR

Born and raised in a Christian home in Luanshya, Zambia, The Rev. Dr. Elijah Mwitanti sensed a call to ministry during his high school years. He answered this call by enrolling at the Theological College of Central Africa (now Evangelical University), where he laid the foundation for his lifelong dedication to Christian service.

After graduating, he served in various roles within the Baptist Church before relocating to the United States to further his theological education. He earned a Master’s degree from Reformed Theological Seminary and a Doctorate from Drew University. In 1999, his ministry journey led him to the Lutheran Church, where he has faithfully served in both interim and full-time pastoral roles.

Renowned for his gifts in preaching, teaching, and global missions, Pastor Elijah is deeply committed to walking alongside parishioners through life’s joys and challenges. He is married to his beloved wife, Kerris, and together they are the proud parents of four adult children: a son and three daughters.

Pastor Elijah’s heart for ministry, coupled with his passion for mentorship and mission, continues to inspire and nurture his congregation.

Mission Pastor

Garrett serves as the Missions Pastor at King of Kings with the exciting goal of starting a second site for King of Kings in Loudoun County. Garrett and his family are northern VA natives. He graduated from GMU with degrees in Finance and Statistics as well as earned an MBA from American Public University. In 2011, after a 10-year career in corporate finance, he responded to a call to ministry and his life has been transformed ever since. In 2018, Garrett graduated from seminary with a Master in Divinity and in August he joined the staff of King of Kings Lutheran Church.  Garrett is married to his college sweetheart, Niki, and they have three crazy awesome kids. He loves playing softball (or any sport), playing group games, hearing people's stories, and seems to always be in school.

Director of Music Ministries

Beth and her husband have been members of King of Kings since 1992 - initially, it was the feeling of family that drew them to the church. Never in her wildest dreams could she have imagined that she would be our church’s Music Director! Before taking the position in 2001, Beth was a freelance bassoonist in the greater DC area and had also spent five years in Germany directing choirs. She loves to sing, ring handbells, and play her instrument! Her greatest joy is to teach God’s love through music to all ages in her church and the community.  It is the Holy Spirit working in conjunction with a variety of music and worship styles that makes God a very real presence here; Beth is grateful to be a part of it!

Administrative Assistant

Fran, the Administrative Assistant in the church office, has been working at the church, as well as a member, for more than 20 years. She has a son, daughter-in-law, and six wonderful grandchildren - with another on the way! Fran previously worked in the healthcare field as a Respiratory Therapist. In her spare time she enjoys reading, speed walking with some running, and volunteering in the community. Fran felt called to this position and is blessed to be part of the KofK staff and family.

Preschool Director

Karen Dunham is the Director of King of Kings Preschool. She has been working with young children and their families in roles as volunteer and educator for many years. Karen is a New York native and a graduate of George Mason University. Her passion is educating and inspiring young children to give them the best stepping stones to be life-long learners. Karen has been married for almost 30 years to her high school sweetheart, Matt, and is the very proud mother of five children (almost all adults), two cats, and a dog! In her spare time she enjoys reading, hiking, and cooking for her family and friends.