Spiritual Leaders are self-motivated, forward leaning disciples, energized by authentic faith and a God-sized vision. Leaders create energy in others by taking bold, courageous risks that invites greater faith and unity to flourish. They are the change-makers, seed-casters and light bearers for a new generation.
Our leadership team leads by serving first and showing the way. They are consistent in worship, generous with their time and talents, and an advocate for unity in very polarized world! We are drawn to their leadership because it is so real and genuine, their faith inspires us to see the good in others, their warmth and kindness connects us and is our best witness to a cynical, skeptical world!
Steve Gedon
Senior Pastor
Steve and Linette joined UM Temple in May of 2022. Both grew up in central Pennsylvania in the same hometown and attended high school together. After 37 years of marriage, we treasure our three children, Katelin, Abigail and Alex, two grandchildren, Rylan and Scarlett, and most recently adopted Wyatt in Dec. 2022! (crazy I know). Steve began ministry in 2000 as a part-time pastor at Calcutta/Nine Mile (2000 - 2004) and transitioned to full-time ministry at FUMC in Williamstown, WV (2005-2015). Steve graduated from Asbury Seminary (MDiv) in 2010 and was ordained as a full-elder in the WV Annual Conference in 2013. Prior to coming to Temple, Steve served at Mt. Pleasant UMC (2015 - 2022). Steve received a BS in Chemistry from Penn State Univ. and his Ph.D. in organic chemistry from Duke University. He has published over 13 technical articles and 13 US Patents and 2 encyclopedia aricles. Steve considers himself a simple guy with a complicated mind. His motto is “Made for More, there’s more to life than where you are now.” because so many people have given up or given in to shiny technology and the lure of greater prosperity! I am a firm believer in the Wesleyan ideal of spiritual apprenticeship, small group accountability, intentional discipleship and impact ministries as we fulfilll the Colossians mystery, “Christ in you, the hope of Glory.” (Col 1:27) Steve also officiates soccer at both the high school and collegiate level and last year officiated the NCAA D2 playoff. Steve recently wrote a referee article on "Blame-Shifting" published in Referee Magazine.
Daniel Spurgeon
Director of Music
Daniel was born in Akron, Ohio, but spent his childhood in various communities because of his family being transferred to various states. He spent early life in Fort Wayne, Indiana; middle school years in Grand Blanc, Michigan and high school years in Hurricane, WV. He is a graduate of Marshall University with a BA in Music Education. He received his Master’s Degree from Scarritt Graduate College in Church Music and organ performance. He has played many organ concerts throughout the US and Eastern Europe, and won several national and regional organ competitions. He is also an arranger and composer as well. He and his wife Tammy have one son, Luke. Daniel has been the Minister of Music at UMT since 1989. He enjoys the outdoors and golf.
Joyce Lovell
Administrative Assistant
Joyce Lovell is a native of Greenbrier County where she was a resident for 47 years before moving to Beckley. She is a 1973 graduate of Greenbrier East High School, a graduate from WV Career College in Charleston, WV (Executive Secretarial Degree) and completed several courses in computers, management, and business since then. Joyce is married to Pat Lovell, a life-long resident of Beckley. Joyce has one grown daughter, Stephanie, of Clintonville; 2-grandchildren, Alexis and Chandler; one step-daughter, Crystal, of Columbus, OH and 3 step-grandchildren, Trent, Kinsley, and Payton; and one step-son, Patrick of Daniels. Joyce has always been an active member of her church where she grew up and is thrilled to now be a part of the UMT Staff.
Martha Hutchinson
Treasurer
Fran Miller
Financial Secretary
Rene Williams
Daycare & Preschool Director
