Ministerial Staff
Rev. Jill Cameron Michel, Pastor
Jill has been pastor since January 2001. Both her undergraduate and graduate work were at Disciples' schools, graduating from Culver-Stockton College in 1995 and Lexington Theological Seminary in 1998. Jill was ordained in 1998. She and her husband, Jim, share their lives with sons, Cameron, Teegan and John, and daughter, Katy. You can contact Jill at pastor@southjoplindisciples.org .
Kate Hogue, Student Pastor
Kate (Foster) Hogue joined our staff in October 2011. Kate is currently a senior at Missouri State in Springfield. She plans to attend seminary beginning in the fall of 2012. Kate married Sean in December 2011. Kate is not only a deep person of faith, but also a wonderful musician.
Dean Salchow, Choir Director
Dean has served as our adult choir director since 1997. Along with being our church choir director, Dean spent 30 years teaching band. 25 of those years were spent as band director at Webb City schools. Dean and his wife, Verna, have two grown sons.
Karen Patchin Watson, Organist
Karen grew up at South Joplin Christian Church but only recently began serving as church organist. She also teaches middle school vocal choir. Karen has two grown sons. She was excited when the opportunity arose for her faith and musical talent to work together in the position of organist.
Cora Smith, Nursery Attendant
Cora began serving as one of our nursery attendants in the fall of 2007. Cora's is the smiling face that will greet you on Sunday mornings. Additionally, she works as a daycare provider during the week and is pursuing her degree. Cora and Chris share their home with their two boys. Cora is committed to the care and nurture of children.
Amy Whipkey, Nursery Attendant
Amy has been serving as one of our nursery attendants since early in 2010. She has primary responsibility for our midweek nursery times. In addition to our nursery, she works at a daycare throughout the week. Amy is the mother of Mackenzie.
Danielle Garcia, Nursery Attendant
Danielle began serving as one of our nursery attendants in the fall of 2010 primarily as an attendant for the Moms Matter groups on Friday mornings. Danielle and her husband have one son and are expecting a daughter in November.
Sherry Elliott, Church Secretary
Sherry began serving as church secretary in 2004. She also continues to sell real estate. Sherry and Dwayne share their home with Sherry's son. Sherry has never met a stranger, which makes her presence in the office a blessing.
Raymond Reaves, Custodian
Raymond Reaves has been a faithful member of the church for several years and just came on board as the church custodian two weeks before the May 22, 2011 tornado so he is immediately learning to be flexible in this position. Raymond and his wife, Jennifer, have two adorable daughters.