Meet our Deacons
Deacons are set forth in scripture as servant leaders who compassionately administrate care of the congregation. In the ancient world, much like today, service was not seen as a high calling or office. However, Christ contends that serving others is the highest calling and office one could aspire to. So much so that in serving others we actually serve Christ himself (Matt 25: 31-46).
Deacons were first elected and ordained in Acts 6. At neighborhood, our deacons were nominated and elected democratically by our members. Our deacons are here to serve you and help meet any needs you may have.
Feel free to contact them here.
Paul Alcantara
Paul is a man who loves God and loves to do what he can to serve. With a special heart leaning towards children Paul has had over 10 years of working in ministry of some kind with children/ teens and is excited to offer his knowledge and experiences to the team.
Dylan Braun
Originally from California, Dylan met his wife Alexandra after moving to Miami for graduate school. As a deacon, Dylan oversees the children's ministry at Neighborhood. He enjoys plaid button downs, homemade cold brew, and helping people thrive.
Alexandra Braun
​Alexandra (Xan) grew up in West Kendall and now lives in the Dadeland area with her husband, Dylan, and her puppy, Scooter. She co-leads a Thursday small group with Dylan and enjoys connecting first time visitors with people in the Neighborhood community. Xan serves alongside the finance team to help ensure financial transparency for the church.
Melissa Barbieri
Melissa is an espresso-enthusiast who is also passionate about the arts, American Sign Language, Scotland, and her cat, Aslan. Melissa serves as the leader to our Set-Up & Tear-Down Team and volunteers as a singer/musician with our Worship Team.