Leadership

Rich became the Senior Pastor at Central United Methodist Church in July of 2022. He earned his Master of Divinity from Methodist Theological School in Ohio in 2007, has been in active ministry since 2003, ordained and Elder in 2013. He has served churches in the Dundee area, Morenci, Britton, and Grayling Michigan before coming to Central.
"It is truly an honor to be appointed by Bishop Bard to this historic and flagship church in the Michigan Conference. I look forward to serving you in all capacities as your pastor and friend."
Pastor Rich and his wife Amy have brought together a blended family of four adult children, Korin Goetz, Loren Goetz, Gavin Burstall, & Korin Burstall. They also have two grand-children, Tyler and Penelope.

A retired pastor, Bill Amundsen has led significant churches with great distinction. He is also currently a representative of MICAP (Michigan Council on Alcohol Problems) and the leader of two significant adult study groups, most notably Vespers, a progressive Christian discussion group that meets on Sunday nights at 5:30. Central is blessed to have Bill and his wife Cathy's ministry here at Central.

Mark Mitchell has been an organist for many years, serving United Methodist, Lutheran, Episcopal, and other local congregations. He started his organist career at a Methodist church in Houghton, MI, where he attended Michigan Technological University. Mark grew up at Central and has always had a love for music, especially the pipe organ. In his spare time, Mark enjoys traveling, cooking and hanging out with his son, Christopher, and three basset hounds!

Joi Tennant and her husband Bill are long time members of Central UMC. They bring great passion and commitment to faith development for all ages in all kinds of ways: through teaching the arts, music, and service. Joi is a gifted educator and a deeply faithful prayer warrior. Pictured here with Nona Bartley (left) in Mary Sabina Chapel. Together they pray weekly for our prayer list and for our church. Joi leads a great volunteer staff.

Tyler and his fiancée, Maggie, have recently moved to Michigan from Washington state to be closer to family. They share their home north of Lansing with 3 cats; Jasper (aka Tubby), Zoey, and Joey. Their cats love watching the chipmunks but aren't too sure about the raccoon which showed up recently. Tyler enjoys working in a Christian environment and is especially excited to be here.

Paul is an Army veteran and comes to us with over 20 years of experience. Paul and his wife, Amy, live together in Middleton with their two dogs, one cat and one bird.