About Us
First United Methodist Church
Pastor Rev. David Newton
I consider myself blessed beyond words to serve as a minister in Christ’s Church! After graduating from Georgia State University with a BBA in Marketing I worked for FedEx for just over a year prior to enrolling and graduating from The Candler School of Theology at Emory University with a Master of Divinity. In addition to academic training my education includes graduating from the Upper Room’s Two Year Academy for Spiritual Formation and certification as a trainer for Early Response Team and United Methodist Volunteers in Mission. I have a passion for seeing those without Christ to join believers and grow in discipleship as the Holy Spirit of God dwells within.
For the past twenty years I have served as a missionary with the Methodist Church of Nicaragua in addition to domestic missions. Service beyond the local church includes two terms as our Volunteer in Mission Coordinator prior to my current appointment as the Seashore District Mission Coordinator.
My wife Amanda is a native of Missouri and has served as a Christian Education Director at a congregation, the GulfCoast Marine Lab as an instructor and author of a Coral Reef Curriculum. She has home schooled each of our children with an emphasis on imparting the faith handed down to us. Amanda designed a course of study to fit each child and made sure they had a firm foundation in music.
Our eldest son, Wesley, is a rising second year law student at the University of Pennsylvania in Philadelphia. Natalie recently graduated from Williams College in Massachusetts and begins work with the Federal Reserve in the area of Consumer Economics Research at their Philadelphia, PA branch. Mimi has enlisted in the U.S. Army as a culinary specialist. Lydia, a rising junior, is a violin and performance major at the University of Miami, FL. John, age 15, has a interest in natural sciences and anything outdoors unless inside playing basketball in our church gym.
My hobbies and interest include music, outdoor activities and reading good books. I look forward to serving Christ with you, reaching those without hope and nurturing members from the cradle throughout life as followers.
Rev. David Newton
(228)216-6567 cell