Pastor Chris Ray

I  grew up in the North Georgia Conference of the U.M.C. I graduated from Gilmer High School in Ellijay, GA. I began my college journey at Reinhardt College and later completed my undergrad degree at Toccoa Falls University. I had my first experience of ministry in a 10-week summer program as a youth and children’s intern in 1996. I have been in ministry ever since. I have served churches as a youth director, children’s director, and missions and discipleship minister. After serving on staff at FUMC Gulfport in Mississippi and completing my undergraduate degree, we moved to Atlanta where I attended Candler School of Theology and served New Hope UMC as a part time pastor while in seminary. I was ordained as an Elder in the Holston Conference in 2019. I enjoy being outside, hiking, going on walks, and spending time with family. I am looking forward to serving as your pastor and know that God will do amazing things with First UMC Surgoinsville.

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