Alumni Spotlight: Doug and Cathy Johns

Rev. Doug ’86 and Rev. Dr. Cathy ’84 Johns serve as co-pastors of Hyde Park Community United Methodist Church, but they first met and fell in love as seminary students at United. Both were deeply impacted by their education at United. For Doug, it was United’s curriculum that he appreciated most. He was particularly shaped by the teachings of Dr. Kendall McCabe in his worship and sacramental theology course and Dr. John Wagner in his theology of administration as ministry class.

During her time at United, Cathy enjoyed the seminary’s practical education that focused on giving pastors realworld experience through field education. She especially appreciated the teachings of Dr. Kathy Farmer and Dr. Ty Inbody. At the end of Dr. Inbody’s systematic theology course, Cathy’s ordination papers were written.

When Doug and Cathy heard about the Master Scholar program to sponsor a full-ride education for a master’s student at United, it was a natural fit.

“Investing in the education of young adults has always been a core value of Hyde Park,” Doug explains. “When we heard about the Master Scholar program, it resonated with my heart, and we felt it would resonate with the heart of the Hyde Park leadership.”

Rev. Dr. Cathy and Rev. Doug Johns

Doug and Cathy have loved seeing the education at United through the eyes of Sadell Bradley, their Hyde Park Master Scholar. While some things have changed at the seminary since their time, they appreciate the continued focus on a practical education and United’s commitment to exposing students to a variety of theological perspectives in an atmosphere of respect.

While modalities and methods may change, United remains committed to preparing faithful and fruitful Christian leaders to make disciples of Jesus Christ for generations to come!