MEET OUR STAFF

Pastor

Reverend Carolyn Pittman

Reverend Pittman was appointed as pastor of Bethel United Methodist Church on June 26, 2022. From June 2018 to June 2022, Reverend Pittman served as pastor for Henson Chapel and Evans Chapel United Methodist churches in Gonzales, Texas. She is a Licensed Local Pastor having completed United Methodist Church Pastors’ School in 2018.

Reverend Pittman graduated in 2009 from the International Seminary in Plymouth, Florida with a Ph.D. in Christian Education. She also graduated from Boston University, with a Master of Education (Ed.M.) degree, and Florida Atlantic University in Boca Raton, Florida, with a Bachelor of Science degree in Education (B.S.E.). On June 3, 2022, she graduated from the IIliff School of Theology with a Master of Divinity (M. Div.) degree.

Reverend Pittman, also retired from the United States Army Reserve as a Lieutenant Colonel. In addition, she served as a Department of Army Civilian as a Supervisory Instructional Systems Specialist until she retired in 2018.

Reverend Pittman’s hobbies include reading and board games.

Beth has been working diligently at Bethel United Methodist Church since August of 2023. She holds her Bachelor of Business Administration from Western Michigan University with her major in Business Management.

Every day she brings a smile and her positive attitude in working together with the pastor, the leadership team and congregation to make Bethel a warm and inviting place to attend. She is blessed to also be able to help with the seniors at our onsite Bethel Nutrition Program.

In her free time she enjoys crafting, travel and time with her family.

Assistant to the Pastor & Office Administrator

Beth Lackey

Music Director

Dr. Linda Darnell Cherry

Dr. Linda Darnell Cherry is a lifelong educator, accomplished musician, and passionate community leader whose work has touched lives across San Antonio and beyond. A child prodigy and skilled violist, she began her musical journey at age three and has devoted more than 40 years to church music ministry.

Her career spans teaching high school math and choir, directing youth programs, and leading citywide initiatives that support underserved communities. She has held leadership roles at the Ella Austin Community Center, served as a Juvenile Caseworker and Program Monitor for the City of San Antonio, and contributed to the launch of the Texas Workforce Solution Centers through federal grant development.

In addition to her professional achievements, Dr. Cherry is deeply committed to mentoring young musicians and nurturing a love for the arts. Her innovative approach to music education and ministry has inspired countless individuals through workshops, music camps, and collaborations with local organizations.

Dr. Cherry holds a PhD in Sacred Music, teaches at San Antonio Theological College, and serves as a contracted data analyst at St. Philip’s College. She is also a sought-after grant writer. Through it all, she remains devoted to uplifting others through music and ministry, proudly serving Bethel UMC with the motto:
“I’m not retired — I’m rewired to do His holy will.”