First United Methodist Church
Thursday, February 23, 2012
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Meet the Staff

 
 
Rev. John Cannon, Senior Pastor
 
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Ministry: As Senior Pastor, I serve the spiritual needs of the church by leading worship, offering spiritual direction, and setting the overall vision for the ministries and mission of the church. I also teach Bible studies and enjoy serving in many of the ministries of this active congregation.

Brief Bio:  I was born and grew up in Shreveport and went to college at the University of Arkansas in Fayetteville. After graduating from LSU Law School, I worked for a few years as an Assistant District Attorney in Baton Rouge. After my "lawyer years," I attended St. Paul School of Theology and entered into ordained ministry.

Family: I have been married to Erin for 20 years. We have 4 children: Michael (11), David (9), Elizabeth (5), and Mary Claire (5). They keep us joyfully busy.

Interests: running, yoga, backyard astronomy, and playing with my kids.

Favorite Movies & Music: Some of my favorite movies are The Lord of the Rings trilogy, The Empire Strikes Back, Monty Python and the Holy Grail, and Young Doctor Frankenstein. As for music, I love the Beatles (especially the later albums) and everything by Rush (the band!).

Favorite Beatle: George Harrison

Favorite Bible Verse(s): But there are also many other things that Jesus did; if every one of them were written down, I suppose that the world itself could not contain the books that would be written. (John 21:25)
 
Rev. Linda Shepherd, Associate Pastor
 
Ministry: As Associate Pastor, I assist the Senior Pastor in worship, teach Bible classes, serve communion to nursing home residents and shut-ins, coordinate worship services for nursing homes and other types of adult ministries.
 
Brief Bio: I was born in Columbia County, Arkansas and attended college at Southern State College in Magnolia and Centenary College in Shreveport. I received my degree in Christian Education. I later did my Course of Study at Perkins School of Theology in Dallas, Texas. I have served in nine different churches as a full-time Pastor before coming to Minden.
 
Interests: Reading, growing flowers & house plants, walking, and being with family.
 
Favorite Books, Movies, & Music: Historical Fiction and Inspirational books, old movies (especially musicals). In music, I like the “oldies but goodies” and gospel.
 
Favorite Pastime: Listening to my 2 ½ year old granddaughter tell a story. I say, “Victoria tell me a story” and she looks around and makes up a story from whatever she sees, being very dramatic with her voice and hand motions.
 
Favorite Bible Verse: But now thus says the Lord, he who created you… he who formed you… Do not fear, for I have redeemed you; I have called you by name, you are mine. (Isaiah 43:1)
 
Jamie Moore, Director of Children's and Family Ministries
 
Ministry: As the Children’s director, I am dedicated to encourage children on their journey to know Jesus as their personal Savior and friend. I coordinate volunteers for Sunday School, Children’s Church, and VBS. I head up our Summer program where the children go on a fun trip each Tuesday during the Summer. 
 
Brief Bio: I was born in Memphis, TN and was saved at the age of eight years old. I have always had a heart for children. I am currently enrolled at Northwestern University as a Junior seeking a degree in Psychology and I will then be working toward Early Childhood Education.
 
Family: I am happily married to Willard Moore for 11 years. We have three amazing children Kathy(10) Becky(9) and Andrew(7). They are truly a blessing and joy in our lives.
 
Interests: Spending time with my family and friends, reading, walking, talking, and making children smile.
 
Favorite Books & Music: I love books by Gloria Copeland and Elizabeth George. I am a huge fan of K-love one of my favorite bands is Mercy Me. I also like to listen to Country.
 
Favorite Musical: Sound of Music
 
Favorite Bible verses: Trust in the Lord with all your heart and do not rely on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge Him and He will make your paths straight.  (Proverds 3:5-6)
 

 
Collis Thorn, Director of Music Ministries
 
Ministry: As music director, I want to involve individuals utilizing the medium of music as a service and outreach for the Kingdom of Christ.
 
Brief Bio: I was born in Andalusia, AL, and moved to northwest Florida at the age of 5.  After high school, I graduated with a BA degree in music and moved to Atlanta where I graduated with a Masters of Religious Education from Marietta Baptist Seminary.  I am married and have one son, Brandon.
 
What I love about music: It is the international language through which humanity can communicate without barriers.  This is the reason I feel church music is vitally important in our spiritual journey.
 
Interests: music, cooking, music, gardening, music, and Alabama football
 
Favorite Choir: Atlanta Symphony Orchestra Chorus/Robert Shaw era AND FUMC Chancel Choir, children's choir and hand bells
 
 
Ann Cox, Administrative Assistant
 
 
 Ministry: As Administrative Assistant, I help where I can. No one can do everything, but everyone can do something.
 
Brief Bio: I was born in Webster Parish, raised in Claiborne Parish. I have always lived out in the country. Co-owned and operated a dairy farm in Claiborne Parish for 20 years. Moved back to Webster Parish and earned my B. A. from Louisiana Tech in 1994. I have been on staff at FUMC since 2000.
 
Family: Two daughters, and three grandchildren
 
Interests: Sewing, cooking, reading, and watching movies
 
Favorite Books, Movies, & Music: “Moonraker’s Bride”, Finding Nemo, and I love 70’s easy listening.
 
Favorite Quote: Do unto others as you would have them do unto you.
 
Support Staff
 
Grover Owens, Custodian
 
Maddie Myles, Custodian
 
Lois West, Nursery Attendant