Cumberland Road

Reverend Mark Hester is in his 9th year serving as the Pastor of Loudon Cumberland Presbyterian Church in the Presbytery of East Tennessee. He had a long career as a bi-vocational minister serving often as an Interim, Stated Supply and Pulpit Supply. Before his retirement from full-time secular work in 2021, he was a Registered Investment Advisor and Certified as a Financial Planner. In his 43 years in the financial world, he managed wealth for clients in 27 states and specialized in taking care of ministers and their families. Mark studied Communications at the University of Tennessee, Religion and Arts at Lambuth University (University of Memphis), Finance and Estate planning from Michigan State University and The American College and Theology from Southern Seminary and Memphis Theological Seminary. He is a Program of Alternate Studies graduate and beginning a final year in a Doctor of Ministry in Pastoral Therapy program from Memphis Theological Seminary. He is the Chair of his Presbytery's Committee on the Ministry – Clergy Care and has served on various boards and agencies at all judicatory levels. He is a former member of the Board of Trustees at Bethel University. He has been an Instructor for Program of Alternate Studies and Memphis Theological Seminary in minister's finance. Mark is at least a 4th generation Cumberland Presbyterian and a Cumberland Presbyterian “preacher's kid”. He is a native Tennessean and he and his wife live happily ever after in Farragut, Tennessee.Mark is working on a doctoral research project on clergy care for Cumberland Presbyterian ministers. The purpose is to better serve ministers involving self-care and continuing education. If you are Cumberland Presbyterian minister, click the link: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/7T3RTYF. The survey is point and click and takes approximately five minutes.Music is provided by Pierce Murphy, Caldera Blue. Source:  https://www.freemusicarchive.org/music/Pierce_Murphy/through-the-olive-branches/caldera-blueComments: http://freemusicarchive.org/Additional comments:  modifications made to shorten and loop song for introduction and closing of podcast.Copyright Attribution and License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

Greg Bowen writes, "Hello, I'm Greg Bowen, and I have the incredible privilege of serving as the full-time pastor of Liberty Cumberland Presbyterian Church in McMinnville, Tennessee. Sharing the gospel and helping others grow in their faith is my passion, and I love seeing lives transformed by God's truth. I've been married to my wonderful wife, Sue, for 38 years, and together we have been blessed with a beautiful family. Our daughter, Keri, and her husband, Ryan, live in Glasgow, Kentucky, and they have given us the joy of being grandparents to our sweet granddaughter, Blakely, who is 11. Our son, Grant, and his wife, Brittany, also live in Glasgow and have blessed us with our energetic grandson, Gatlin, who is 2. Before stepping into full-time ministry, I spent over 17 years in the broadcasting media industry. While that was an exciting chapter of my life, God had bigger plans, leading me to serve Him and His people in a new way. Now, my heart is focused on preaching, teaching, and helpingothers experience the love and grace of Jesus Christ. I love connecting with people, whether through worship, Bible study, or just a good conversation about faith and life. I believe God's Word is powerful and relevant, and I'm excited to share this journey with you!"Music is provided by Pierce Murphy, Caldera Blue. Source:  https://www.freemusicarchive.org/music/Pierce_Murphy/through-the-olive-branches/caldera-blueComments: http://freemusicarchive.org/Additional comments:  modifications made to shorten and loop song for introduction and closing of podcast.Copyright Attribution and License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

Originally from Cali, Colombia, Juan Manuel Cabezas Torres is a husband and father who loves God and believes that everyone can contribute to God's kingdom uniquely. He graduated from Colegio Americano, a school founded by the Cumberland Presbyterian Mission in Colombia. Then, he earned his degree as Dentist from University Santiago de Cali. Juan and his wife later made Memphis, Tennessee their home. Juan has been an active member of Faith Cumberland Presbyterian Church for years, sharing his musical talents as a drummer in the worship praise band. His journey of faith led him to pursue ministry, earning his Master of Divinity from Memphis Theological Seminary in 2024. In early 2025, he officially joined Faith Church as Associate Pastor, working in a supportive role alongside Pastor Rev. Dr. Andy McClung. With a heart for service, connection, and spiritual growth, Juan is committed to boosting his congregation and supporting our community meaningfully.Music is provided by Pierce Murphy, Caldera Blue. Source:  https://www.freemusicarchive.org/music/Pierce_Murphy/through-the-olive-branches/caldera-blueComments: http://freemusicarchive.org/Additional comments:  modifications made to shorten and loop song for introduction and closing of podcast.Copyright Attribution and License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

Reverend Jamie Adams is a Cumberland Presbyterian minister, a school teacher, and entrepreneur. To learn more about The Record Shop, click the link below to the December 2024 issue of The Cumberland Presbyterian magazine.https://www.calameo.com/cppubarc/read/007729667ca6ed8a20773?authid=BgFycxxQ1EspMusic is provided by Pierce Murphy, Caldera Blue. Source:  https://www.freemusicarchive.org/music/Pierce_Murphy/through-the-olive-branches/caldera-blueComments: http://freemusicarchive.org/Additional comments:  modifications made to shorten and loop song for introduction and closing of podcast.Copyright Attribution and License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

Reverend Brian Gibson writes:"My name is Brian Gibson.  I am sixty years old and have been married to Michelle for 32 years.  We met on July 4th of 1992 and were married on September 12th of 1992.  We have three children Adam, Kevin, and Annalise.  We also have four grandchildren Haley, Hagen, Gabby, and Amelia. My daughter, Annalise, was the catalyst in my wife and I returning to church.  She was friends with Drew Edwards, son of Joey Edwards, and asked if we could go to her dad's church.  We attended on that Sunday and our faith journey began.I began seminary at the age of fifty.  My first professor, Steve Parrish walked in with long hair and sandals and a notebook the size of two Bibles.  Introduction to the Old Testament was begun.  During my spiritual walk, my wife lost her mother and I lost my brother and mother.  I also lost a great deal of my eyesight to a disease known as optic neuritos.  Those stumbling blocks led me to almost end my faith walk.  If it had not been for Tiffany McClung, Barry Anderson, and Courteney Pace, I would have closed the book on the calling God has told me to take.  I am also grateful the strength my family gave me and continues to give me to this very day."Music is provided by Pierce Murphy, Caldera Blue. Source:  https://www.freemusicarchive.org/music/Pierce_Murphy/through-the-olive-branches/caldera-blueComments: http://freemusicarchive.org/Additional comments:  modifications made to shorten and loop song for introduction and closing of podcast.Copyright Attribution and License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

Reverend Isaac Gray is a lifelong Cumberland Presbyterian born and raised in East Tennessee. He began his ministry journey in 2008 after being ordained at his home church in Afton shortly after graduating seminary. He and his family moved to Smithville in July of 2014 after pastoring the Pineville Cumberland Presbyterian Church in Arkansas for 6 years. Isaac, his wife Susan, and his two children, Caleb and Sarah, are excited to be in Smithville doing the work God has given them. Music is provided by Pierce Murphy, Caldera Blue. Source:  https://www.freemusicarchive.org/music/Pierce_Murphy/through-the-olive-branches/caldera-blueComments: http://freemusicarchive.org/Additional comments:  modifications made to shorten and loop song for introduction and closing of podcast.Copyright Attribution and License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

Reverend Taylor Young is a 34 years old pastor of St. Luke Cumberland Presbyterian Church in Madison, Tennessee. He is a first generation Cumberland Presbyterian and graduate of Memphis Theological Seminary. Taylor and his wife are expecting their first child soon and can't wait for that new journey. Music is provided by Pierce Murphy, Caldera Blue. Source:  https://www.freemusicarchive.org/music/Pierce_Murphy/through-the-olive-branches/caldera-blueComments: http://freemusicarchive.org/Additional comments:  modifications made to shorten and loop song for introduction and closing of podcast.Copyright Attribution and License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

Reverend Rian Puckett serves as the minister of the Faith Hopewell and New Hope Cumberland Presbyterian churches in the Batesville, Arkansas area. Additionally, he is the boys' basketball coach at Salem High School. Rian met his wife, Michelle, while students at Bethel College and they have two children, Colby and Brooklyn. Rian has a Bachelor of Arts and Master of Arts from Bethel and an Master of Divinity from Memphis Theological Seminary.    Music is provided by Pierce Murphy, Caldera Blue. Source:  https://www.freemusicarchive.org/music/Pierce_Murphy/through-the-olive-branches/caldera-blueComments: http://freemusicarchive.org/Additional comments:  modifications made to shorten and loop song for introduction and closing of podcast.Copyright Attribution and License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

Audrey Adams, a 25 year-old life-long Cumberland Presbyterian and recent Memphis Theological Seminary (MTS) graduate, joins us today to talk about her faith journey. Audrey comes to us having graduated from the University of Tennessee at Martin (UTM) in 2021 with a Bachelor of Arts in English Literature and a minor in Communications. While at UTM, Audrey balanced part-time work at a local law practice and participated and served in various organizations, including SGA and the Writing Center, as well as volunteered as the youth leader at Cool Springs Cumberland Presbyterian Church in Trimble, Tennessee, where her mother is the current pastor and where she was able to serve in various leadership roles at Cumberland Presbyterian youth functions. Through the English program, Audrey also had the opportunity to participate in two travel studies abroad during her time at UTM. After feeling called to further her education at Memphis Theological Seminary following her time at UTM, Audrey began studying at MTS in the Fall of 2021, and recently graduated in May of this year with a Master of Arts in Christian Ministry (MACM) with a specialization in social justice. Audrey is presently serving as the Store Manager at her family's new business venture, For The Record, in downtown Union City, Tennessee.Music is provided by Pierce Murphy, Caldera Blue. Source:  https://www.freemusicarchive.org/music/Pierce_Murphy/through-the-olive-branches/caldera-blueComments: http://freemusicarchive.org/Additional comments:  modifications made to shorten and loop song for introduction and closing of podcast.Copyright Attribution and License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

Reverend Dennis Croslin writes, "I've been married to Melinda for almost 22 years. We have 8 children. I have been the pastor at Union Hill Cumberland Presbyterian Church for 11 years and have been ordained since 2017. I'm a PAS graduate and a licensed funeral director and embalmer, which leads to various ministry opportunities. The church that I pastor is the church I grew up in along with my mother, my grandparents, and great-grandparents."Music is provided by Pierce Murphy, Caldera Blue. Source:  https://www.freemusicarchive.org/music/Pierce_Murphy/through-the-olive-branches/caldera-blueComments: http://freemusicarchive.org/Additional comments:  modifications made to shorten and loop song for introduction and closing of podcast.Copyright Attribution and License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

Reverend Blake Stephens is a life long Cumberland Presbyterian. He was raised in the First Cumberland Presbyterian church in Winchester, Tennessee. It was a long road to ministry for Blake but after many twists and turns he surrendered to the call. He serves the Owens Chapel Cumberland Presbyterian church in Winchester and just celebrated his 10th year there. Blake is a volunteer with his local search and rescue organization and serves as land search captain specializing in tracking and as the group chaplain. Music is provided by Pierce Murphy, Caldera Blue. Source:  https://www.freemusicarchive.org/music/Pierce_Murphy/through-the-olive-branches/caldera-blueComments: http://freemusicarchive.org/Additional comments:  modifications made to shorten and loop song for introduction and closing of podcast.Copyright Attribution and License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

Larry Blakeburn was born in Muskogee, Oklahoma, but grew up in a mobile environment as his father prepared for and participated in full-time ministry. He has lived in Oklahoma, Arkansas, Texas, and Tennessee. He graduated from Greeneville High School, Bethel University, and later earned a Master of Divinity degree at Memphis Theological Seminary. Additionally, he was the first recipient of a Doctor of Ministry degree from MTS. Larry joined the United States Marine Corps in 1968 and served in Vietnam in 1969, where he was awarded the Vietnamese Cross of Gallantry. Larry was ordained on February 18, 1979. He has served five Cumberland Presbyterian churches: Bolivar CP Church, Bolivar, Tennessee, St. Luke CP Church, Ft. Worth, Texas, West Nashville CP Church, Nashville, Tennessee, Dyersburg First CP Church, Dyersburg, Tennessee, and First CP Church of Oak Ridge, Oak Ridge, Tennessee. Dr. Blakeburn was President of Memphis Theological Seminary from 1997-2001.  He has served as commissioner to General Assembly several times. Larry was on the Board of Trustees of Memphis Theological Seminary from 1985-1991. He served nine years on the Board of Trustees of Bethel University. Larry was on the General Assembly Organizational Task Force in 2006 and 2007 to evaluate how our denominational organization and structure work together, and on the General Assembly Evaluation Committee for Memphis Theological Seminary and the Historical Foundation which reported to the 189th meeting of General Assembly. He has been moderator of five different presbyteries and served on the Board of Missions and the Committee on the Ministry in those presbyteries. His philosophy of ministry revolves around trying to be a pastor for every member of his congregation and not just those who agree with him theologically, politically, and socially. “Every congregation that I have served has been made up of people from a variety of religious traditions and people who are politically and socially diverse. We accept absolutely everybody, but that does not mean that we agree with everybody or that we approve of everything they do. We are all in the process of being saved and we are trying our best to be like Christ. Adapted from the Cumberland Presbyterian magazine, May 2024.Music is provided by Pierce Murphy, Caldera Blue. Source:  https://www.freemusicarchive.org/music/Pierce_Murphy/through-the-olive-branches/caldera-blueComments: http://freemusicarchive.org/Additional comments:  modifications made to shorten and loop song for introduction and closing of podcast.Copyright Attribution and License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

Nick Chambers was born and raised in Camden, Arkansas. He is the grandson of the late Rev. Leo Smith, who pastored for 50 years in the Cumberland Presbyterian Church (CPC). His mother, former Women's Ministry President, Martha Chambers, father, and father-in-law are ordained elders in the CP Church. His brother and aunt are also CP Ministers. But serving in the church was never the dream for Nick.  Nick and Andrea have six children who are all homeschooled. His two oldest kids help lead worship every Sunday. Nick has served as moderator of Arkansas and Grace Presbyteries, numerous presbyterial committees, and the Communications Ministry Team. He is currently the pastor of the Camden CP Church, and, via video stream, the Walkerville CP Church.  Adapted from the Cumberland Presbyterian magazine, May 2024.Music is provided by Pierce Murphy, Caldera Blue. Source:  https://www.freemusicarchive.org/music/Pierce_Murphy/through-the-olive-branches/caldera-blueComments: http://freemusicarchive.org/Additional comments:  modifications made to shorten and loop song for introduction and closing of podcast.Copyright Attribution and License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

Rev. Lucas Garcia is a Cumberland Presbyterian minister in the Atlanta, Georgia area. Lucas writes, "I have been happily married for ten years to my beautiful wife Jennifer and we have a three year old son named Santiago. I have served the El Redil Cumberland Presbyterian Church for the past six years as its pastor. It has been a wonderful and fulfilling journey. I love playing the guitar and laughing."Music is provided by Pierce Murphy, Caldera Blue. Source:  https://www.freemusicarchive.org/music/Pierce_Murphy/through-the-olive-branches/caldera-blueComments: http://freemusicarchive.org/Additional comments:  modifications made to shorten and loop song for introduction and closing of podcast.Copyright Attribution and License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

Benjamin Diaz Villa is an ordained elder and pianist at First Cumberland Presbyterian Church of Houston, chair of Trinity Presbytery Board of Christian Education, and is currently a PhD aerospace engineering student at the University of Texas at Austin. His research is currently on hypersonic aeroelasticity, and he enjoys composing music in his free time.Music is provided by Pierce Murphy, Caldera Blue. Source:  https://www.freemusicarchive.org/music/Pierce_Murphy/through-the-olive-branches/caldera-blueComments: http://freemusicarchive.org/Additional comments:  modifications made to shorten and loop song for introduction and closing of podcast.Copyright Attribution and License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

Danny Willis is a Cumberland Presbyterian minister in Owensboro, Kentucky. He and his wife Jessica, join me in this faith journey on Cumberland Road. Danny writes, “my story is one of ‘I am lost and now I am found' and being pulled from certain death, by God's hand.  My church, wife, and children have all been a huge part of my journey; a journey that has just begun.”Music is provided by Pierce Murphy, Caldera Blue. Source:  https://www.freemusicarchive.org/music/Pierce_Murphy/through-the-olive-branches/caldera-blueComments: http://freemusicarchive.org/Additional comments:  modifications made to shorten and loop song for introduction and closing of podcast.Copyright Attribution and License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

Matthew H. Gore is a British journalist, historian, popular culturist, archivist, and educator residing in Memphis, Tennessee. He is the immediate past-president of the Society of Tennessee Archivists and is best known for his book The History of the Cumberland Presbyterian Church in Kentucky to 1988 (2000). He has also published on a variety of topics as diverse as The Origin of Marvelman (a British superhero of the 1950s and 1960s), the relative scarcity of East German philatelics, and the biography of British pulp artist, Denis McLoughlin. He is employed by the Ministry Council of the Cumberland Presbyterian Church at the Cumberland Presbyterian Center in Memphis, Tennessee, as editor of the Cumberland Presbyterian Magazine and as publications manager. He has been associated with both Western Kentucky University, which honored him with their James H. Poteet Award, and the University of Kentucky. He also serves as editor for all Boardman Books (Memphis, Tennessee) publications.Music is provided by Pierce Murphy, Caldera Blue. Source:  https://www.freemusicarchive.org/music/Pierce_Murphy/through-the-olive-branches/caldera-blueComments: http://freemusicarchive.org/Additional comments:  modifications made to shorten and loop song for introduction and closing of podcast.Copyright Attribution and License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

LeighAnn Morgan is serving as the Congregational Life Director at Winchester Cumberland Presbyterian Church in Tennessee. She was raised in the Cumberland Presbyterian denomination and says she has "loved every second of it". She answered the call into ministry while in high school and graduated from Bethel University in Mckenzie, Tennessee with a major in Human Services. LeighAnn is now attending Memphis Theological Seminary.  Music is provided by Pierce Murphy, Caldera Blue. Source:  https://www.freemusicarchive.org/music/Pierce_Murphy/through-the-olive-branches/caldera-blueComments: http://freemusicarchive.org/Additional comments:  modifications made to shorten and loop song for introduction and closing of podcast.Copyright Attribution and License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

Carissa Welch lives in Oklahoma. She and her husband have three children, 7, 5, and 2. She is a seminary student and attends Covenant Cumberland Presbyterian Church. Music is provided by Pierce Murphy, Caldera Blue. Source:  https://www.freemusicarchive.org/music/Pierce_Murphy/through-the-olive-branches/caldera-blueComments: http://freemusicarchive.org/Additional comments:  modifications made to shorten and loop song for introduction and closing of podcast.Copyright Attribution and License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

Singer-songwriter and multi-instrumentalist Donna Frost is a traveling troubadour with decades of performing and touring experience. Expertly weaving folk, blues and pop, she creates memorable concerts that champion the human spirit. She logs thousands of miles each year, performing across the U.S., solo and with her band. With over 300 songs in her catalog and seven albums, her music has received airplay, charted and garnered awards worldwide. Recently, Donna won the Mississippi Music Foundation Best Americana Artist award in April 2023. She has performed a tribute to the late Skeeter Davis at Kentucky Music Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony; and has performed live on Chicago WGN TV. Giving back to the community, she is an active performer with Music for Seniors, “Musicians on Call” and “Songs of Love.” She is endorsed by Kamoa Ukuleles and Luna Guitars; and is an ambassador for True Joy Acoustics which donates ukuleles to pediatric hospitals for music therapy programs across the country. Her latest album The Beautiful Unseen is a collaboration with her longtime friend Jack Howell, and recorded in Joshua Tree, CA. (Adapted from https://donnafrost.com/press-kit/).Music is provided by Pierce Murphy, Caldera Blue. Source:  https://www.freemusicarchive.org/music/Pierce_Murphy/through-the-olive-branches/caldera-blueComments: http://freemusicarchive.org/Additional comments:  modifications made to shorten and loop song for introduction and closing of podcast.Copyright Attribution and License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

Mitzi Minor joined the Memphis Theological Seminary (MTS) faculty in the summer of 1993. From the beginning of her vocation as a teacher/scholar, first as a grad student, through three years of teaching undergrads, and during all her time at MTS, the primary focus of her work has been (and continues to be) the intersection of the New Testament with our own spiritual journeys. She believes deeply that critical biblical study is a significant aid along the journey and seeks to demonstrate that belief in the classroom, in the church, and when she writes.Dr. Minor was reared in Southern Baptist Churches and continues to be grateful to those good folks in that setting who taught her to love the Bible. She left the turmoil of that denomination in 1990 and was ordained by the Cumberland Presbyterian Church in 1991. Cumberland Presbyterians and their seminary (MTS) have provided a challenging and nurturing environment for Dr. Minor to grow as a person of faith and as a teacher/scholar. She teaches courses at MTS in the Gospels, Romans, the Corinthian letters, Revelation, NT Greek, and feminist NT studies. The Gospel of Mark was her first love as a grad student, and it inspires her still. She's written two books and numerous articles on Mark and has lectured on the Second Gospel twice. In addition, she's written a commentary on 2 Corinthians and given lectures inspired by that writing. She's also lectured on Revelation.Beyond her work at MTS, Dr. Minor also spends significant time teaching in church and retreat settings, which brings her much joy. Lay Christians benefit from critical biblical study every bit as much as seminarians! While some people insist that critical study “won't work” in church, Dr. Minor delights in proving them wrong. She delights even more in lay Christians' eagerness to understand their Bibles.If possible, Dr. Minor would spend every moment outside of work hiking somewhere and taking her camera along. But since that's not possible, she also fills her non-working hours with good friends, mystery novels and poetry, bicycle rides, being an Auburn sports fan, and attending to her large and close extended family.  - Bio from the faculty page of Memphis Theological Seminary https://memphisseminary.edu/dr-mitzi-l-minor/Music is provided by Pierce Murphy, Caldera Blue. Source:  https://www.freemusicarchive.org/music/Pierce_Murphy/through-the-olive-branches/caldera-blueComments: http://freemusicarchive.org/Additional comments:  modifications made to shorten and loop song for introduction and closing of podcast.Copyright Attribution and License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

Reverend Justin Richter recently became the Director of Global Missions of the Cumberland Presbyterian Church.  He lives in Albuquerque and served there as a pastor at Heights Cumberland Presbyterian Church for over fourteen years.  He had a multicultural upbringing with multi-ethnic parents and overseas living due to his father's military career.  He has a passion for cross-cultural ministry and hopes to continue our denominations efforts to be global in its vision.Music is provided by Pierce Murphy, Caldera Blue. Source:  https://www.freemusicarchive.org/music/Pierce_Murphy/through-the-olive-branches/caldera-blueComments: http://freemusicarchive.org/Additional comments:  modifications made to shorten and loop song for introduction and closing of podcast.Copyright Attribution and License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

Rev. Merlyn Alexander celebrates 71 years of ministry in this faith conversation.  Ordained December 30, 1952, Merlyn has served Cumberland Presbyterian congregations in multiple presbyteries and states, as vice moderator of the General Assembly in 1992 and as moderator of the General Assembly in 1996.  He lives in Jackson, Tennessee.  Thanks to his daughter, Dewana Latimer, for making this faith conversation happen.Music is provided by Pierce Murphy, Caldera Blue. Source:  https://www.freemusicarchive.org/music/Pierce_Murphy/through-the-olive-branches/caldera-blueComments: http://freemusicarchive.org/Additional comments:  modifications made to shorten and loop song for introduction and closing of podcast.Copyright Attribution and License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

Rev. Emrie Smith Rogers is currently serving as minister of Tusculum Cumberland Presbyterian Church in Nashville, Tennessee. She grew up in Westborough, Massachusetts with a passion for missions and fluency in the Spanish language. Emrie came to the Cumberland Presbyterian Church by God's leading through many unforeseen circumstances including her thwarted attempts to run away from God's call. In the Cumberland Presbyterian Church she has found purpose, mentors, and opportunities to serve God. Emrie and her husband, Matt, met during COVID and now live in the South Nashville area with their adorable collie and trouble-making cat.Music is provided by Pierce Murphy, Caldera Blue. Source:  https://www.freemusicarchive.org/music/Pierce_Murphy/through-the-olive-branches/caldera-blueComments: http://freemusicarchive.org/Additional comments:  modifications made to shorten and loop song for introduction and closing of podcast.Copyright Attribution and License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

Rev. Rocky Johnson has been in the ministry for over 40 years. He has served Cumberland Presbyterian congregations in Greeneville and Morristown Tennessee and soon will start his 10th year as pastor at Liberty Cumberland Presbyterian Church in Clarksville Tennessee. He has been married to his wife Janet for 31 years and they have a 13 year old granddaughter, Mikeyaka, who lives with them. Rocky says, "We all try to contribute to the ministry and make it a family affair."Music is provided by Pierce Murphy, Caldera Blue. Source:  https://www.freemusicarchive.org/music/Pierce_Murphy/through-the-olive-branches/caldera-blueComments: http://freemusicarchive.org/Additional comments:  modifications made to shorten and loop song for introduction and closing of podcast.Copyright Attribution and License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

The Rev. Dr. Robert S. (Stan) Wood is pastor of the Mt. Tabor Cumberland Presbyterian Church in America in Jackson, Tennessee since 2011.  He was Vice President of Academic Affairs/Academic Dean, Director of the Doctor of Ministry Program, Clara Scott Professor of Ministry at Memphis Theological Seminary retiring in 2017. He earned degrees from Bethel College, Memphis Theological Seminary, and Vanderbilt Divinity School. He is an ordained minister in the Cumberland Presbyterian Church in America.  Prior to his appointment at Memphis Theological Seminary, Dr. Wood was employed by the Cumberland Presbyterian Church in America as General Secretary/Stated Clerk (1979-1997) and as Director of Christian Education (1973-1979), working at the church headquarters in Huntsville, Alabama. He and his wife, Patricia, live in Cordova, Tennessee.Music is provided by Pierce Murphy, Caldera Blue. Source:  https://www.freemusicarchive.org/music/Pierce_Murphy/through-the-olive-branches/caldera-blueComments: http://freemusicarchive.org/Additional comments:  modifications made to shorten and loop song for introduction and closing of podcast.Copyright Attribution and License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

Rev. Kevin Brantley writes, "I was born Dec. 25, 1971, in Ada, OK, the son of Wes Jr. and Susan Brantley. Dana and I were married May 26, 2007, and have 2 children: daughter Kristi (21) and son Wesley (13). I graduated from Ada High School in 1990, Bethel College in 1994 with a B.S. degree in Mathematics with an emphasis in Business and from Memphis Theological Seminary in 1998 with a M. Div. degree. I became a Christian in 1981 and joined the Latta Cumberland Presbyterian Church (now Covenant Cumberland Presbyterian Church) in Ada, OK, where I had attended all my life. I came under the care of Red River Presbytery in Spring 1994, was licensed in Spring 1996 and ordained by Red River Presbytery on June 7, 1998. I've been a member of Red River, West Tennessee and Cumberland presbyteries."Music is provided by Pierce Murphy, Caldera Blue. Source:  https://www.freemusicarchive.org/music/Pierce_Murphy/through-the-olive-branches/caldera-blueComments: http://freemusicarchive.org/Additional comments:  modifications made to shorten and loop song for introduction and closing of podcast.Copyright Attribution and License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

Earl Goodwin is a Birmingham, Alabama native. He has a background in education as well as his theological endeavors. In his little down time, he enjoys singing and working in live theater. In addition to his responsibilities serving the Stevenson, Alabama church, he is also a full time floral designer as well as Stated Clerk for Robert Donnell Presbytery. Earl is a graduate of The University of Montevallo and Memphis Theological Seminary.Music is provided by Pierce Murphy, Caldera Blue. Source:  https://www.freemusicarchive.org/music/Pierce_Murphy/through-the-olive-branches/caldera-blueComments: http://freemusicarchive.org/Additional comments:  modifications made to shorten and loop song for introduction and closing of podcast.Copyright Attribution and License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

Gina writes: "Hello, my name is Gina Wood, and I live in Knoxville, Tennessee. I am a third-generation Cumberland Presbyterian.  My parents are Reverend Leonard and Mary Jo Turner (C.P. royalty, according to me), and they have been at Union Cumberland Presbyterian Church for 51 years. I have two incredible daughters (Taylor & Anna) and a fantastic son-in-law (Matthew). My sister, brother-in-law, and two nephews (Tabitha, Dave, Guy, & Brodie Roberts) also live here in Knoxville, and we are all Cumberland Presbyterians attending Union together. I got called into the ministry in 2018 and have been working toward ordination ever since. I work at Ted Russell Ford Lincoln in Knoxville and recently became their chaplain. I am praying for revival in the Cumberland Presbyterian Church, for Knoxville, Tennessee, and the country! Please pray with me for revival in our church and nation."Music is provided by Pierce Murphy, Caldera Blue. Source:  https://www.freemusicarchive.org/music/Pierce_Murphy/through-the-olive-branches/caldera-blueComments: http://freemusicarchive.org/Additional comments:  modifications made to shorten and loop song for introduction and closing of podcast.Copyright Attribution and License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

Reverend Jill Davis Carr is a Staff Chaplain at Mercy Hospital in Springfield, Missouri. She is a Board of Trustee member of Memphis Theological Seminary and a board member for Missouri Presbytery of both Christian Education and Camp Cumberland. Jill holds an Master of Divinity from Memphis Theological Seminary and an MBA from Missouri State University. She has served in leadership roles with young people for over 30 years, especially at CPYC and Camp Cumberland. Jill has one daughter, Allison, who is also actively participating and serving in the Cumberland Presbyterian Church.Music is provided by Pierce Murphy, Caldera Blue. Source:  https://www.freemusicarchive.org/music/Pierce_Murphy/through-the-olive-branches/caldera-blueComments: http://freemusicarchive.org/Additional comments:  modifications made to shorten and loop song for introduction and closing of podcast.Copyright Attribution and License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

Rev. Joy Warren grew up in South Carolina and was ordained by Nashville Presbytery of the Cumberland Presbyterian Church.  She served nine years as Associate Pastor at First Cumberland Presbyterian Church in Murfreesboro Presbytery.  Now, she works for NFP as a Design and Consulting Specialist, modeling funding of non-qualified plans for bank executives.  Joy continues her ministry in the Murfreesboro, Tennessee area and beyond.  She serves as Treasurer of the National Farm Workers Ministry and has been on their board since 2014.  She was also instrumental on the Unified Task Force between two denominations from its inception in 2012 until dissolved in 2021. Joy is married, has two young adult children, and three dogs.  Music is provided by Pierce Murphy, Caldera Blue. Source:  https://www.freemusicarchive.org/music/Pierce_Murphy/through-the-olive-branches/caldera-blueComments: http://freemusicarchive.org/Additional comments:  modifications made to shorten and loop song for introduction and closing of podcast.Copyright Attribution and License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

Edward H. Adair, a 1985 graduate of the University of Kentucky College of Law, is a former Federal Law Clerk and Special Assistant United States Attorney for the Department of the Interior.  He is currently a Licentiate under the care of the Presbytery of East Tennessee and works for the Oak Ridge National Laboratory as a Privacy and Regulatory Specialist.Music is provided by Pierce Murphy, Caldera Blue. Source:  https://www.freemusicarchive.org/music/Pierce_Murphy/through-the-olive-branches/caldera-blueComments: http://freemusicarchive.org/Additional comments:  modifications made to shorten and loop song for introduction and closing of podcast.Copyright Attribution and License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

Rev. Daniel Barkley is in his twelfth year as the minister at the Gadsden Cumberland Presbyterian Church in Gadsden, Alabama. He is married to Jamie, his high school sweetheart for 27 years, father of three sons (youngest is a senior in college), two daughter-in-laws, one grandson and a granddaughter who will be making her appearance by the end of August 2023. He was born and raised in Paducah, Kentucky and is a graduate of Bethel University and Memphis Theological Seminary.  He is the assistant volleyball coach at Glencoe High School, a substitute teacher, a member of board of trustees of Memphis Theological Seminary, a member of the Glencoe Ministerial Association, and a board member of Glencoe Athletic Foundation.Music is provided by Pierce Murphy, Caldera Blue. Source:  https://www.freemusicarchive.org/music/Pierce_Murphy/through-the-olive-branches/caldera-blueComments: http://freemusicarchive.org/Additional comments:  modifications made to shorten and loop song for introduction and closing of podcast.Copyright Attribution and License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

Rev. Dr. Anne Hames is the Senior Chaplain of Bethel University. Dr. Hames graduated from Bethel in 1982 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in religion. She earned a Master of Divinity degree and a Doctorate of Ministry degree from the Memphis Theological Seminary. Dr. Hames also teaches religion classes on campus.Music is provided by Pierce Murphy, Caldera Blue. Source:  https://www.freemusicarchive.org/music/Pierce_Murphy/through-the-olive-branches/caldera-blueComments: http://freemusicarchive.org/Additional comments:  modifications made to shorten and loop song for introduction and closing of podcast.Copyright Attribution and License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

Rev. Ellen Hudson Clark is currently a chaplain resident with Ascension St. Thomas in Nashville, Tennessee, where she lives with her husband and partner in ministry Rev. Dr. Tommy Clark.  They have two dogs, Beatrice and Jameson and a cat named Nina. She is a graduate of Bethel University with her Bachelor in Science in Biology and Memphis Theological Seminary with a Master of Divinity. She serves on the Board of Christian Education for Columbia Presbytery and has a particular passion for creating safe spaces for open, honest conversations. Ellen is also a “theatre kid” and enjoys her season tickets at the Tennessee Performing Arts Center.Music is provided by Pierce Murphy, Caldera Blue. Source:  https://www.freemusicarchive.org/music/Pierce_Murphy/through-the-olive-branches/caldera-blueComments: http://freemusicarchive.org/Additional comments:  modifications made to shorten and loop song for introduction and closing of podcast.Copyright Attribution and License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

Heather Hennessee is a life long member of Bates Hill Cumberland Presbyterian Church in Warren County, Tennessee where she serves as worship leader, bulletin creator, Sunday school teacher, and Women's Group President.  Heather writes:I am married to Douglas Hennessee for 6 years and have a beautiful stepdaughter Bella. We complete our family with Hank Tater Bug Hennessee the Cow Dog. Yes, that is his name.I work full time for the 31st Judicial District Public Defenders office. I am mainly in General Sessions Court and have been deemed the rehab guru. I do my best to help those who find themselves in the ugly cycle of addiction. My husband and I also have a residential and commercial trash business that services 3 counties. To say the least we are very busy. We recently were able to rent a spot on Woods Reservoir for some down time and can't wait to get away and enjoy it as much as we can."Music is provided by Pierce Murphy, Caldera Blue. Source:  https://www.freemusicarchive.org/music/Pierce_Murphy/through-the-olive-branches/caldera-blueComments: http://freemusicarchive.org/Additional comments:  modifications made to shorten and loop song for introduction and closing of podcast.Copyright Attribution and License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

Steve writes: "Reverend Steve Delashmit and Faye Delashmit have five children, twelve grandchildren, three great grandchildren and share a love for music, travel, and the Lord.  I was born a Cumberland Presbyterian and have served churches in Kentucky and Tennessee for 44 years. I am currently serving the New Hope Cumberland Presbyterian Church in Lebanon, Tennessee and look forward to many years of ministry to come."Music is provided by Pierce Murphy, Caldera Blue. Source:  https://www.freemusicarchive.org/music/Pierce_Murphy/through-the-olive-branches/caldera-blueComments: http://freemusicarchive.org/Additional comments:  modifications made to shorten and loop song for introduction and closing of podcast.Copyright Attribution and License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

Rev. Tyler Lindsey writes, "I was born on August 1st, 1994 to David and Ashley Lindsey. I am a life-long Cumberland Presbyterian and the grandson of Rev. Cordell Smith. I am the oldest of 3 siblings, and I am celebrating 7 years of marriage with my lovely wife, Heather (Hamblin) Lindsey. I spent most of my childhood in Bowling Green, Kentucky and attended the Bowling Green Cumberland Presbyterian Church. I was ordained in Cumberland Presbytery on June 13th, 2021."Music is provided by Pierce Murphy, Caldera Blue. Source:  https://www.freemusicarchive.org/music/Pierce_Murphy/through-the-olive-branches/caldera-blueComments: http://freemusicarchive.org/Additional comments:  modifications made to shorten and loop song for introduction and closing of podcast.Copyright Attribution and License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

Savannah writes, "My name is Savannah Lamb. I have been a Cumberland Presbyterian my whole life. I am a member of the St. Luke Cumberland Presbyterian church in Nashville, Tennessee. I am in college at the University of Tennessee Knoxville, majoring in Kinesiology to become a Physical Therapist. While at school, I worship with the Beaver Creek Cumberland Presbyterian congregation. I currently serve on the CPWM Executive Committee in a new role as a Young Woman Ambassador."Music is provided by Pierce Murphy, Caldera Blue. Source:  https://www.freemusicarchive.org/music/Pierce_Murphy/through-the-olive-branches/caldera-blueComments: http://freemusicarchive.org/Additional comments:  modifications made to shorten and loop song for introduction and closing of podcast.Copyright Attribution and License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

Hailing from Rogersville, Alabama, Darren Kennemer attended the University of North Alabama and Bethel University where he graduated with a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Psychology, minoring in Religion and Philosophy.  He also holds a Master of Divinity Degree from Memphis Theological Seminary and was ordained by West Tennessee Presbytery in 2003.  He is currently a member of Robert Donnell Presbytery.He completed his clinical residency and a fellowship in mental health chaplaincy at the VA Medical Center in Memphis.  Since 2006 Chaplain Kennemer has worked as a clinical chaplain with the Birmingham VA Health Care System, where he has been the Chief of Chaplain Service since 2011.  He is currently pursuing a doctorate from Vanderbilt University and expects to graduate in May 2025. The Reverend Kennemer has also served as a parish minister in Tennessee, Mississippi, and Alabama. He and his wife have two teenage children.  He enjoys anything outdoors and spending time with family and friends.Music is provided by Pierce Murphy, Caldera Blue. Source:  https://www.freemusicarchive.org/music/Pierce_Murphy/through-the-olive-branches/caldera-blueComments: http://freemusicarchive.org/Additional comments:  modifications made to shorten and loop song for introduction and closing of podcast.Copyright Attribution and License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

Reverend Judy Madden is minister of Pastor of Care at Pathway Cumberland Presbyterian Church in Burleson, Texas.  As Pastor of Care, Judy oversees pastoral counseling, funerals/memorials, hospital visits, support groups and is the primary contact for those in crisis or death.  Judy has been endorsed by Red River Presbytery for election as Moderator of the 192nd General Assembly of the Cumberland Presbyterian denomination.   Music is provided by Pierce Murphy, Caldera Blue. Source:  https://www.freemusicarchive.org/music/Pierce_Murphy/through-the-olive-branches/caldera-blueComments: http://freemusicarchive.org/Additional comments:  modifications made to shorten and loop song for introduction and closing of podcast.Copyright Attribution and License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

Lynndon (Lynn) Thomas is currently the Director of Global Missions for the Missions Ministry Team of the Cumberland Presbyterian denomination. Lynn's introduction to the mission field took place in his teenage years. He later attended Bethel and then Memphis Theological Seminary. After seminary, he married Nona Young Thomas, and they moved to Colombia, South America as missionaries. They returned in 1998 to the USA after eleven years on the mission field, where Lynn assumed the position of Director of Cross-Culture Missions USA. He facilitated planting churches in the USA among immigrant populations. He then took the position of Director of Global Missions and worked with Cumberland Presbyterian missionaries and mission fields outside the USA for twelve years. Lynn will leave his position at the end of June, 2023 and assume a new role as the Director of Program Development for OptIN, the trade school for Christian formation (Scottsboro Cumberland Presbyterian Church).Music is provided by Pierce Murphy, Caldera Blue. Source:  https://www.freemusicarchive.org/music/Pierce_Murphy/through-the-olive-branches/caldera-blueComments: http://freemusicarchive.org/Additional comments:  modifications made to shorten and loop song for introduction and closing of podcast.Copyright Attribution and License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

Veronica Ent writes;"I reside in the small town of Hardinsburg, Kentucky.  I attend church at Garfield Cumberland Presbyterian Church were I am active in Cumberland Presbyterian Women's Convention (CPWM) and serve as Children's Church teacher.    I have served as CPWM President on both the local and regional level, and presently serves as Convention President. Born into a Christian family who were sharecroppers, I have always been a part of a church family. I asked Jesus to come in to her heart at an early age and have lived most of my life in church.  I have spent most of my work life in education in one role or another.  From kindergarten aide to college educator (not professor) I have been a student of human behavior.  I worked as kindergarten aide in Hancock County under a wonderful mentor.  Then I worked at Owensboro Community College( 1987- 1997)  as I obtained my  Associates, Bachelors, and Master degrees in Psychology & Counseling." Music is provided by Pierce Murphy, Caldera Blue. Source:  https://www.freemusicarchive.org/music/Pierce_Murphy/through-the-olive-branches/caldera-blueComments: http://freemusicarchive.org/Additional comments:  modifications made to shorten and loop song for introduction and closing of podcast.Copyright Attribution and License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

Rev. Daniel Ignacio Headley was born in Mexico but raised in the United States of America. Daniel is a mechanical engineer and a Cumberland Presbyterian minister.  God is showing him how to live pastorally in the workplace.Music is provided by Pierce Murphy, Caldera Blue. Source:  https://www.freemusicarchive.org/music/Pierce_Murphy/through-the-olive-branches/caldera-blueComments: http://freemusicarchive.org/Additional comments:  modifications made to shorten and loop song for introduction and closing of podcast.Copyright Attribution and License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

Rev. Daniel Ignacio Headley was born in Mexico but raised in the United States of America. Daniel is a mechanical engineer and a Cumberland Presbyterian minister.  God is showing him how to live pastorally in the workplace.Music is provided by Pierce Murphy, Caldera Blue. Source:  https://www.freemusicarchive.org/music/Pierce_Murphy/through-the-olive-branches/caldera-blueComments: http://freemusicarchive.org/Additional comments:  modifications made to shorten and loop song for introduction and closing of podcast.Copyright Attribution and License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

Rev. Lisa Oliver is the pastor of Mt. Tabor Cumberland Presbyterian Church in Murfreesboro, Tennessee in Murfreesboro Presbytery. Lisa serves as Vice President of the Historical Foundation Board of Trustees, Secretary of the Executive Committee of the Cumberland Presbyterian Women's Ministry, on the Still Waters Family Ministry Board in Murfreesboro Presbytery, and volunteers for Sacred Sparks in the Loads of Love Ministry. In her free time, she enjoys spending time with family and friends, crocheting, going to plays presented by Parfait Studios and being mom to her cat fur baby named Sister.Music is provided by Pierce Murphy, Caldera Blue. Source:  https://www.freemusicarchive.org/music/Pierce_Murphy/through-the-olive-branches/caldera-blueComments: http://freemusicarchive.org/Additional comments:  modifications made to shorten and loop song for introduction and closing of podcast.Copyright Attribution and License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

Rev. James Byrd is a Cumberland Presbyterian minister and serves the New Providence Presbyterian Church in Harrodsburg, Kentucky.  He is a graduate of Bethel College (University) and Memphis Theological Seminary.  He has served congregations in Mississippi, Tennessee, and Kentucky.  James writes: "I have been in the ministry for 53 years.  Mall call to the ministry came sometime before I responded. While in high school, I felt God working in my life.  Through it all, I have learned to trust God moving."Music is provided by Pierce Murphy, Caldera Blue. Source:  https://www.freemusicarchive.org/music/Pierce_Murphy/through-the-olive-branches/caldera-blueComments: http://freemusicarchive.org/Additional comments:  modifications made to shorten and loop song for introduction and closing of podcast.Copyright Attribution and License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

Debbie Shanks writes: "I have been married for over 50 years to Roy: we have three children by birth, three children by marriage, and twelve grandchildren. Roy is from Casey Illinois and I am from Louisville Kentucky.  We met and married in Louisville and spent the next eighteen months in southern Italy (Air Force), spent one year in Indiana, and then seven years in Tennessee before moving to Illinois 40 years ago.    I have been a church musician since I was twelve years old.  I started out as the pianist for First Cumberland Presbyterian Church in Louisville Kentucky, then was the pianist/organist for both the Protestant and Catholic chapels on San Vito Air Force Base in San Vito, Italy, and then was the pianist for Goodlettsville Cumberland Presbyterian Church in Tennessee.  I have been the pianist for New Hope Cumberland Presbyterian Church in Yale Illinois for the last 40 years.  I spend a whole lot of time with 'dead people'.  I manage eight cemeteries and I am the historian for both of our families, as well as for several social and religious groups.  I spend countless hours researching ancestral connections, military histories, local histories, and census records in order to preserve the history and bring the 'dead back to life' for future researchers.   I am a Township Supervisor – the 'mayor' of 48 square miles of farm country.  I am a member of New Hope Cumberland Presbyterian Church, where I serve as an elder, Sunday school teacher, treasurer, musician, and a member of the Program Committee.  I am the Treasurer of North Central Presbytery and North Central Presbytery Cumberland Presbyterian Women's Ministry. I have served as the presbytery Moderator, a member of the Board of Finance and Trustees, and I am on the staff of the North Central Presbytery's Sr. High/College camps and retreats.  I am the Stated Clerk/Treasurer of the Synod of the Midwest, and am the Secretary of the denominational Board of Stewardship, Foundation, and Benefits   I have more hobbies than I have time to list.  Music is provided by Pierce Murphy, Caldera Blue. Source:  https://www.freemusicarchive.org/music/Pierce_Murphy/through-the-olive-branches/caldera-blueComments: http://freemusicarchive.org/Additional comments:  modifications made to shorten and loop song for introduction and closing of podcast.Copyright Attribution and License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

Jodi Rush writes: I grew up in the McKenzie Cumberland Presbyterian Church but began life attending a Cumberland Presbyterian Church in Chicago, Illinois from the time I was born until we moved to McKenzie, Tennessee when I was five. I was very active in leadership at the McKenzie Church serving as a Sunday school teacher, VBS director, and as an ordained elder while in high school.  I attended Bethel College where I met my husband Kip and graduated from Bethel with Christian Education degree.  I worked at the Marshall Cumberland Presbyterian Church in Texas while Kip served at Elmira Chapel.  We lived in Rydal, Georgia for a few years and next was Beersheba Cumberland Presbyterian Church in Columbus, Mississippi.  While there, I served as the Ecumenical Ministries Director on the campus of Mississippi University for Women. At the Brenthaven Church, I served at Director of Christian Education until beginning my work with the Discipleship Ministry Team as Director of Children and Family Ministry.  We have two adult daughters – Madison and Devin and two dogs – Oscar and Felix.  I love flower gardening, listening to live music, Broadway plays, and exploring and going new places. I have a cancer diagnosis since April of 2021.  Music is provided by Pierce Murphy, Caldera Blue. Source:  https://www.freemusicarchive.org/music/Pierce_Murphy/through-the-olive-branches/caldera-blueComments: http://freemusicarchive.org/Additional comments:  modifications made to shorten and loop song for introduction and closing of podcast.Copyright Attribution and License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

John Pyon is a part of the "GJH Ministry" new church development located in Duluth, Georgia and is currently working at the Air Force ROTC department at University of Georgia as an Instructor and serves in the United States Air Force as a Captain. He is also attending Memphis Theological Seminary to pursue a Master's Degree in Divinity and praying to become a chaplain following graduation. John loves to golf and exercise and is happily married to Hyeji and they have one dog: Daisy, and one cat: Songtan. Music is provided by Pierce Murphy, Caldera Blue. Source:  https://www.freemusicarchive.org/music/Pierce_Murphy/through-the-olive-branches/caldera-blueComments: http://freemusicarchive.org/Additional comments:  modifications made to shorten and loop song for introduction and closing of podcast.Copyright Attribution and License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

Dusty Taylor writes:My name is Dustin, my family and camp friends call me Dusty. I am a have Associate in Applied Science in Land Surveying and that is what I do for a living. I grew up in the Walnut Grove Cumberland Presbyterian Church in the middle of nowhere Arkansas. My mother's brother was our preacher, and my dad's family has been attending since the start of the church in the 1930s. Also, my dad's cousins are elders and the session clerk of the church. We moved to the Cumberland Presbyterian Church in Booneville when I graduated high school after my uncle had retired from preaching. My parents both have been elders at the Booneville Church. My dad's cousin is Cathi Littlefield who was the interim for the Women's Ministry for the denomination and a previous guest on this podcast. I moved my membership to the 1st Cumberland Presbyterian Church in Russellville in October 2022 because it is 30 minutes from my house and I had been driving 1.5 hours to church for the last 14 years. Rev. Jim Fisk is the pastor and Melinda Reams is a member of church and serves on the Ministry Council.  Both have been on your podcast. From 2010-2012, I served on the first Young Adult Ministry Council (YAMC). YAMC started my love for ship cruises. I have attended church camp from 2006 and now serve on the camp board as the current chair.  I love the outdoors, traveling, maps, and history. I have a 2-year-old adopted hound/blue heeler dog named Bleu. I have been working on locating old churches in Arkansas Presbytery and marking them on the map.  You can find them and additional information at www.arpcpc.org. I serve as Arkansas Presbytery's IT and Communications Director that includes website, historical research and recording, virtual meetings, local church tech support, and social media.  Music is provided by Pierce Murphy, Caldera Blue. Source:  https://www.freemusicarchive.org/music/Pierce_Murphy/through-the-olive-branches/caldera-blueComments: http://freemusicarchive.org/Additional comments:  modifications made to shorten and loop song for introduction and closing of podcast.Copyright Attribution and License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/