Our Team

Meet the people behind The Lazarus Center!

Our team is made of a small but dedicated group of staff, board members, and volunteers who are passionate about sharing the healing power of the risen Christ with others. Get to know us!

Brett Christman
Executive Director

After experiencing freedom through inner healing prayer alongside a friend 15 years ago, Brett attended retreats and gradually became more involved with The Lazarus Center. He joined the Board of Directors, becoming Board President in 2018. Brett accepted the position of Executive Director in 2023. He is the proud father of a son who is serving in the Navy.

Connie McCracken
Board Member

Connie began volunteering with The Lazarus Center in the early 90's, eventually joining the board and serving as Assistant Director. She and her husband Rich bought a home and established a ministry for women. Connie has had many opportunities to teach, lead small groups, mentor, and encourage the women in her life, and once again serves on the board.

Don Brown
Board President

If Don has accomplished anything it is only in the grace of Jesus Christ and the power of the Holy Spirit. That invitation has led Don to be the pastor of New Life Community Church, an apprentice teacher with Presbyterian and Reformed Ministries International, and the Order of St. Luke's Chaplain’s Coach, Chaplain for Region 2 and the Pittsburgh Healing Community.

Fran McCarthy
Board Member

Fran recently retired after a 33 year career at Citizens Bank. She has been involved with the Lazarus Center since 2003, having taken various classes over the years. She has also attended a number of Healing Prayer classes at Ashland Seminary, and received a certificate. She has been a member of the Lazarus Center board since 2023.

Jim Kneff
Program Director

Jim worked in the mental health field for over 30 years. He is dedicated to training and mentoring others to learn how to minister where the Lord has placed them. What he learned about the impact of traumatic events in a person’s life has allowed him to combine mental health techniques with Inner Healing Prayer.

Thomas Poet
Board Treasurer

Thomas Poet serves on the board of The Lazarus Center, bringing a deep passion for Christian healing and bringing people closer to Jesus. He currently works with Cribs for Kids, a national nonprofit dedicated to promoting infant safe sleep. Thomas is committed to helping others encounter restoration and hope through Christ.

Valerie Vitunic
Board Secretary

Valerie is first and foremost a beloved daughter of God, who alone defines her. She is also a wife, mother of 3, grandmother of 8. Valerie is the founder and first director of the Lazarus Center. She retired from the Center in 2015, stayed involved in some healing ministry in smaller ways, and is back on the board and serving again.

Volunteer

You can help us make a difference in someone's life.

Our volunteers are more than helpers; they are partners in ministry. They extend The Lazarus Center’s mission and demonstrate Christ’s love through service, and we would not be able to function without them. If you would like to offer your time and talents, please get in touch with us.

A Christian ministry focused on healing the hearts of others.

45 N. Freemont Avenue, Bellevue, PA 15202

admin@thelazaruscenter.org

412-250-7100

© 2025 The Lazarus Center. All right reserved.