New pastor assigned to historic Alabama church founded in 1906

A historic Alabama congregation is preparing for a fresh chapter. The Odenville United Methodist Church, a 71-member body with roots dating back to 1906, is set to welcome a new pastor this summer to lead services within its landmark 1911 sanctuary.

New Clergy Appointments

Bishop Jonathan Holston, who leads the North Alabama Conference of the United Methodist Church, confirmed a series of clergy reassignments that are scheduled to take effect on July 1. Among the key changes, the Rev. David Teel will transition from his role at All Saints’ United Methodist Church in Trussville to take the helm at Odenville UMC, succeeding the retired Rev. James Hawkins.

Statewide Updates

The North Alabama Conference has confirmed several other pastoral assignments across the region:

• Rev. Sam Frazier: Wilsonville and Vincent UMC
• Rev. Renae Perry: Goshen/Union Grove/Spring Garden UMC
• Rev. Toby Vaughn: Hopewell UMC in Pinson
• Rev. Wylheme Ragland: Lowe’s Chapel in Huntsville
• Rev. Dedra Campbell: North Wood in Florence
• Rev. Eleanor Christiansen: Associate pastor at Canterbury UMC in Mountain Brook
• Rev. Nedra Deerman: Druid Hills UMC in Tuscaloosa
• Rev. Kiki Terry: Associate pastor of Irondale UMC
• Rev. Zac Head: University of Alabama Wesley Foundation

These shifts follow a previous wave of appointments announced last month. Conference leadership noted that remaining assignments will be unveiled next week. All clergy placements will reach their final status during the 2026 North Alabama Annual Conference, held May 28-30 at Asbury UMC in Birmingham.