Pastor Jim McKinney
I am excited to be the pastor of St. Luke’s UMC. I am a lifelong Methodist, having grown up in Scenic Hills UMC, Memphis, Tn. I am a graduate of Briarcrest Christian High School, University of Memphis, and Memphis Theological Seminary. Jenny, my wife is a graduate of Bartlett High School, Middle Tennessee State University, and Harding Graduate School. She is an elementary school teacher with the Bartlett Municipal School System. We have two sons: Ross (age10), and Stone (age 8).
My family and I have served the following churches in the Memphis Conference: Oakland/Palma Charge in Marshall County, Kentucky; Grand Junction/Lagrange/ Holmes Memorial Charge in Hardeman County, Tennessee; Macedonia/Bolton Charge in northeastern Shelby County; and Ellendale UMC in Bartlett, Tennessee. Before entering the ministry I was a teacher with the Shelby County School System.
My family and I enjoy University of Memphis Athletics, hiking, camping, and traveling. I also enjoy coaching my sons in various sports, and Jenny enjoys working with our sons in Boy Scouts.
One of my favorite verses of Scripture is “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me” (Philippians 4:13). I truly look forward to working with you in ministry as we strive to grow God’s kingdom here on this earth.
Beth Ryan- Director of Youth and Young Adult Ministries
Beth is a life-long member of St. Luke’s leaving only while away at Mississippi State earning a Bachelor’s of Science in Forestry. She began working with Youth and Young Adults at St. Luke’s in 1999. She and her husband Adam are proud to call Memphis home along with their son Nathan. When away from the church, Beth enjoys spending time with family and being outdoors!
Terri Theil, Director of Music Ministries
Terri has many years of experience leading music in both schools and churches. She currently has a private voice studio in the Memphis area and is the director of Memphis Children’s Chorale. Terri holds a Bachelor of Music with a double concentration in vocal and instrumental music from the University of Memphis. She is married to Mike and has two daughters; Lauren (Kevin), and Katie.
Harry Colter- Pastoral Assistant
Erin Cowles – Dayschool Director
Ashley Scott – Challengers After School Director
Donna Thurmond, Communications/Special Events
Vickey Hobbs – Business Manager
Mary Lou Cushing- Assistant Business Manager
Tim Taylor, Facilities Manager
Wes Kirkpatrick, organist
