First United Methodist Church
Monday, September 06, 2010

Meet the Staff

 
 
Rev. John Cannon, Senior Pastor
 
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 as an Assistant District Attorney in Baton Rouge. But God is full of surprises, and it wasn’t long before I was in seminary and entering ordained ministry.

Family: I have been married to Erin for 18 years. We have 4 children: Michael (10), David (8), Elizabeth (4), and Mary Claire (4). They keep us joyfully busy.

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

Favorite Movies & Music: Some of my favorite movies are Raiders of the Lost Ark, 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 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)
 
Heather Hebert, Director of Youth Ministries
 
 
 Ministry: As a youth minister, I desire for youth to experience God and community by discipleship, studying Scripture, and enjoying life together.
 
Brief Bio:  I grew up in Dry Creek. In 2007 I graduated with a Bachelors in Psychology from Louisiana Tech. Following graduation I served as an Intern at the Louisiana Tech Wesley Foundation.

Family: Parents, three sisters, brother in-law, and niece.

Interests: Traveling, yoga, missions, and reading.

Favorite Books & Music: The Kite Runner by Khaled Hosseini, East of Eden by John Steinbeck, and Angela's Ashes by Frank McCourt.  Some of my music choices include, Feist, Ingrid Michaelson, My Morning Jacket, Sigur Ros, and Cat Power.

Favorite dessert: Ice Cream
 
Favorite Bible Verse(s): Eph. 3:20-21 and Isa. 55:3
 
Collis Thorn, Director of Music Ministries
 
 
 
 
 
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