Pastor: Rev. Mark Whitley was appointed to Verdigris United Methodist Church on June 1, 2011. He comes to us from 1st United Methodist Church of Bixby, Ok. Rev. Whitley received a BS degree in Biology (Medical Technology) and a BS in Biology (Pre-Medicine) from McNeese State University, Lake Charles, La. He completed a graduate program in Immunohematology at Ochsner Foundation Hospital, New Orleans, La. Rev. Mark is married to Susan and they have three children, Bryan, Chris and Caitlin. Susan is also a pastor at the Coweta United Methodist Church.
Education & Youth Minister: David Berns joined VUMC in June of 2010 from St. Stephen's United Methodist Church in Tulsa, where he served as a volunteer youth leader for several years. David worked for Boston Avenue Church as a VLT for three years. David is attending Oklahoma State University and is majoring in Education.
CAPE Director: Ellen Wehn has served as CAPE director since the beginning of the Childrens Afterschool Program of Enrichment in 1999. Ellen came to Verdigris United Methodist church after serving 17 years in various church children's ministries and childcare programs. She has been married to her husband, Steve, since 1987 and they have one son, Alex.
Administrative Assistant: Lonette Gordon has been the Administrative Assistant here at Verdigris United Methodist Church since September, 1998. She is also involved in helping with our CAPE program. Having been raised in a minster's home has given her insight into the behind-the-scenes workings required to make a church run smoothly. She managed her own Children's Day Care in her home for 7 years prior to her employment here at VUMC, and has brought her love of children with her. Lonette has been married to Craig since 1974 and together they have three children.