Our History: Pastors

After three years of hard work, Rev. Arthur Fleschner realized he had brought the church as far as he could. In late spring 1982 he resigned as pastor. Joy MCC turned to a graduate of Union Theological Seminary in New York City, the Rev. Nancy L. Radclyffe, as the next Pastor. Although she was just finishing her theological studies in 1982, she had already served as pastor of several MCC congregations. Rev. Radclyffe blessed Joy MCC with her words, presence and service until 1983.

In the fall of 1983, the Rev. James T. (Jimmy) Brock, former Pastor of Blessed Redeemer MCC Atlanta, was called as Pastor of Joy MCC. Although relatively new to the Fellowship, he had more than 30 years of pastoral experience in Southern Baptist churches. Rev. Brock was able to articulate the church’s vision and oversaw a time of growth at Joy MCC. On May 20, 1998 Rev. Brock died of a heart attack.

In August 1995, Carol A. Trissell was hired as Assistant to the Pastor. She was ordained as UFMCC clergy on November 3, 1997 and was promoted to Associate Pastor after her ordination. Upon the death of Rev. Brock, Rev. Trissell took over all of the preaching duties at Joy MCC. On July 26, 1998, Reverend Trissell was called as Senior Pastor. She was installed as Joy MCC’s fourth Senior Pastor on September 13, 1998. Rev. Trissell resigned as Senior Pastor in December 2003 to accept the pastorate in St. Louis.

Rev. John Middleton, Director of Faith Enrichment and Rev. James E. (Jim) Merritt, Director of Pastoral Care and Worship took over the preaching responsibilities when Rev. Trissell moved. In addition to the preaching responsibilities, the Board of Directors authorized Rev. Middleton and Rev. Merritt to assume many of the day to day operations of the church. Rev. Middleton and Rev. Merritt were called as Interim Co-Pastors by the church in December 2004.

After two and a half years of serving as a Co-Pastor Rev. John Middleton was installed as Joy MCC fifth Senior Pastor.

God has greatly blessed Joy MCC with strong pastoral leadership. The Shepherds who have led the flock at Joy MCC, have all left a great legacy and a church poised for a great future. The story of Joy MCC – that began almost 28 years ago – continues today. As you join our community of faith, God will unfold new paths for us to journey together. May the God who began a new work in us continue to lead us, guide us, and sustain us as we share the good news of Jesus Christ with all people.