Our Staff

Jim Denton

Pastor

Pastor Jim spent 25 years as a pharmacist before answering the call to ministry. He is passionate about growing closer to God, more Christ-like, and for journeying with others along the way of following Jesus. 

Brenda Petty

Administrative Assistant

Brenda Petty has been with First United Methodist since 2018 and Woodmar since 2023. Before coming to First-Woodmar Church, she worked as a legal assistant for over 15 years in Chicago, Illinois. She is married to her husband, Tim and enjoys hiking ​chai-tea latte.

Terry Watson

Facilities Manager

My passion for the built environment and love of great architecture is satisfied and enriched by the facilities here at First Church. Interacting with the pastors and other staff combined with the love and strong faith of this congregation lifts my spirit.

Sarah Ward

Director of Handbells & A/V Team

My parents joined FUMC in 1976 and I have been part of our church family from day one. In 1989 I joined the handbell choir and soon realized I loved being a "ding-a-ling". Since 2004 I have been a member of a professional handbell choir, The Agape Ringers, and have been assisting with the handbell choir at FUMC since 2010. 

David Bieschke

Choir Director

David has been involved in music and keyboard since the age of 7. David studied pipe organ at Rockefeller Chapel at the University of Chicago and at Roosevelt University’s Chicago Musical College. He attended Roosevelt University’s Chicago Musical College, Indiana University Bloomington, and St. Olaf College, majoring in music, in addition to earning a bachelor’s and master's degree in social work. 

Karianne Padilla

Director of Community Preschool and Childcare

Karianne joined the team at CP&CC in 2018. Karianne enjoys seeing others smile, providing support to others, and giving back to her community.

Debbie Mangerson

Bookkeeper - Woodmar

Debbie Mangerson started at Woodmar United Methodist Church in April 2018 as the bookkeeper. Debbie is a Hammond native, born and raised in “da region”. She is married to Bill and has one daughter, Brianna.

Larry Alport

Treasurer - First UMC

Rudy Serna

Night Custodian

Rudy not only serves to keep the church spotless, but he also fills in and helps out wherever needed.