Mission Statement
Scroll down to learn more about what it means to be a United Methodist, read our statement of inclusiveness, and get to know our staff.
What Is United Methodist?
The United Methodist Church is a Christian denomination born out of a revival movement within the Anglican Church in the 18th century. Methodism focused on the ways ordinary people could live their faith more authentically through personal spirituality and social holiness. They met in small groups, prayed with one another, fed the hungry, and visited prisoners. Believers offered classes to anyone who was interested so they could get an education. They cared for the sick, advocated for the marginalized, fought to end slavery and promote the voting rights of women and men who didn’t own land. Teachings included that everyone is loved by God, and more.
These small groups were organized by an Anglican priest named John Wesley whose theology of grace described a God who loved us before we could recognize or name it (Prevenient Grace). The belief system offered us a way to be like Christ and share love and forgiveness and hope in the world (Justifying Grace). It encouraged us live into a more loving way of life (Sanctifying Grace).
A Faith Tradition
We create our own practical theology by reflecting on scripture, our own experiences, tradition (what other people’s experiences have been), and using reason (and the best science of the day). These practices are made in community to decide not what to think, but how to live. Our belief is that scripture isn’t infallible, because people are all capable of making mistakes, but we do believe it is inspired and that reflecting on it can help us navigate our own lives. We also believe there is no such thing as a solitary Christian. All that seek God need each other to practice love and forgiveness and work together to make a difference in the world.
Worldwide Reach
The United Methodist Church spans the whole globe. The denomination is connectional (which means we work together to do things we could not do on our own), and expresses itself differently in different contexts. In Northwest Reno, our local church’s core values are on the home page of this website. Also, you can find all of the ways we live into our mission statement on our opportunities page. Most ministries are open to everyone. (Exceptions include age-related ministries and ministries that handle sensitive information about vulnerable people in the congregation.)
Meet Our Staff
Pastor Susan Foster is an ordained Elder and the lead pastor at St. Paul’s. She has been faithfully serving with the people of St. Paul’s since 2015.
“Loving, friendly, accepting of all, refreshing meaningful messages!”
— Heidi Caban-Santiago, Facebook review
“This church is like an extended family to me. I like its many ministries, small size, Noah’s Ark Child Center and outstanding sermons.”
— Ruth Stacy, Facebook review
Pastor David Nyberg has been licensed to serve since 2023. He also serves part time at Yerington UMC.
Kendra Iwahashi is our office administrator since 2023.
Pastor Colleen Dolan has been licensed to serve since 2015. She also serves part time at Smith Valley UMC.
Joyce is our faithful worship leader for the 10 a.m. service.
Tiffany is the Director of Noah’s Ark Child Center and Preschool.
Elizabeth Morris is the Co-Director of Noah’s Ark Child Center and Preschool.
“This is the best day care/preschool in Reno by far. My son attended Noah’s Ark when he was 3 and it led to many great friendships for both him and I that still continue to this day. The staff there are amazing and always undergo training to keep up to date and in compliance with state and county policies. You will not find a more educational, loving and safe environment for your child than the one at Noah’s Ark.”
— Sally C., Yelp review