|
Rev. Beth Latham (she/her/hers)
Senior Pastor Rev. Beth Latham brings to ministry a deep commitment to compassionate service, community connection, and the belief that every person is a beloved child of God, created in the Divine image. Before entering pastoral ministry, Beth worked for nearly three decades in government and nonprofit service. She earned a Bachelor of Science in Environmental Science and Agronomy from the University of Arkansas and later served with the USDA, America Reads Challenge, Big Brothers Big Sisters, and United Way. Her call to ministry grew from this work and continues to shape her passion for literacy, advocacy, mentoring, and helping others recognize God’s call in their own lives. Beth completed the Arkansas Conference License to Preach School, the Basic Course of Study through Hendrix College and Candler School of Theology, and advanced studies in United Methodist history, polity, and doctrine. Her previous appointments include Hays Chapel, Mount Olive, Lamar, and Pottsville United Methodist Churches. Most recently, she has served as associate pastor at Jacksonville First United Methodist Church. Beth is passionate about helping congregations deepen their love for God and neighbor through meaningful worship, compassionate outreach, and support for vital community ministries. She hopes to foster intergenerational spiritual growth and strengthen the church’s witness as an open, inclusive, affirming, and welcoming United Methodist presence in the Little Rock area. Since 2019, Beth has been involved with Free Mom Hugs–Arkansas. She enjoys musical theatre, thrift stores, flea markets, farmers markets, festivals, and community events, especially those involving vendors and food trucks. Beth is widowed and lives in Jacksonville with her parents and her two dogs, Madeye and Luna. Her adult child, Han, lives in North Little Rock with their spouse, Fiona. Beth considers caring for her parents both a challenge and a profound privilege. She looks forward to serving alongside Hunter and Oak Forest United Methodist Churches as they continue discerning how God is calling them to love and serve their neighbors. |
|
|
James Sawyer (he/him/his)
CLM James is an East Arkansas native and has called Little Rock home (for the second time) for the past three and a half years. A dedicated member of Canvas Community UMC for nearly a decade, James is active in both his local church and the wider Arkansas Annual Conference where he currently serves as Associate Lay Leader for the Central District. He became a Certified Lay Minister in April 2025 and now serves at Oak Forest United Methodist Church as a CLM with a focus on administration and community engagement. He is passionate about connectional ministry and bringing people and resources together to support collaborative and creative approaches to ministry. Outside of his work in the church, James enjoys baking and hosting gatherings with friends. |
|
Leah Burleson (she/her/hers)
Children's Minister
Leah Daniell is a lifelong United Methodist who is passionate about Children’s Ministry and Christian Education. One of her favorite things in Children’s Ministry is witnessing the kindness that children naturally have.
Leah also works at Easterseals Little Rock Developmental Preschool taking care of infants and toddlers.
In her free time, Leah loves making crafts and reading. She loves being a part of the OFUMC family!
Children's Minister
Leah Daniell is a lifelong United Methodist who is passionate about Children’s Ministry and Christian Education. One of her favorite things in Children’s Ministry is witnessing the kindness that children naturally have.
Leah also works at Easterseals Little Rock Developmental Preschool taking care of infants and toddlers.
In her free time, Leah loves making crafts and reading. She loves being a part of the OFUMC family!