The Rev. Dr. Jay D.Carr has pastored congregations throughout northern Illinois since 1984. He has degrees in music, theology and pastoral leadership, and received his doctorate from McCormick Theological Seminary. He has preached in Africa, India, Russia,England, Scotland, Austria, Mexico, Canada and throughout the United States.
Before coming to New Lenox, Jay was the founding pastor of Hilltop Ministry Center, the Northern Illinois Conference’s first Harvest 2020 congregation.
Jay and his wife Brenda have two grown sons, Jason and Josh. Jay and Brenda are both originally from the Joliet area and are excited to be making their home in New Lenox.
The Rev. Sarah Hong has studied at Korea University (B.A., M.A., PhD coursework), Montclair State University (M.Ed), Princeton Seminary (M.A.), and Candler School of Theology (M.Div). Needless to say, she's been a professional student for much of her life. However, her passion is serving people in the local church and connecting them to Jesus Christ.
Before coming to UMCNL, Sarah has served congregations in the Bronx, New York; Atlanta, Georgia; and Dixon, Illinois.
Sarah is married to the Rev. Caleb Hong, who serves as the Senior Pastor of Faith UMC of Orland Park. Sarah and Caleb have two children, Lydia and Abigail.
The Rev. William Johnson has served as a prison chaplain and as a pastor of local churches from Chicago to Freeport, IL. Bill came to New Lenox with his wife Ruth in retirement and has continued his ministry byvolunteering to work with our new member ministry and by teaching Bible studies.
The Rev. Dr. Jay D. Carr
The Rev. Sarah Hong
The Rev. William Johnson
