I joined the staff of Manchester United Methodist Church in 1995, after serving churches in Texas and Iowa.  As Director of Music and Worship Arts, I have the great privilege to lead this vital ministry, which includes nearly 500 children, youth and adults in all facets of Fine Arts:  music, drama, dance and scenic arts.  Within this ministry, I conduct the Chancel Choir, Coventry Choir and Manchester Brass!  Worship Planning and managing the Joy of Music Concert series are part of my primary responsibilities.

In January of 2011, I was named Director of the St. Louis Symphony’s IN UNISON® Chorus and the Holiday Festival Chorus!  Over the past 20 years, I’ve conducted honor, festival and touring choirs (choral and handbell) in the United States and Canada.  A few of my previous appointments also include Adjunct Professor in Choral Music at Webster University, Assistant Conductor of the St. Louis Symphony Chorus, and Music Director of the St. Louis Metro Singers.  Additional highlights include performances at Carnegie Hall, Lincoln Center and Kennedy Center, 10 commissions and 2 European tours.

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Andy Blacksher Headshot

Rev. Dr. Andy Blacksher

Rev. Dr. Andy Blacksher is the Executive Pastor at Manchester UMC. He and his wife, Kristen, met in college at Missouri State University. They have two children, Zachary & Nathan, who are both excited to be a part of a church community that offers so many opportunities for their family

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Janis Thompson

I was directed to Manchester UMC in September 2019 and became a member shortly thereafter.  I soon joined the Welcome Team, packed bags for Food 4 Kids, joined MO-Hab in support of Habitat for Humanity, enrolled in classes and Making Disciples bible study, and Disciple Bible Study classes.  I am

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Kurtis Heinrich

I was named the Director, Cantate Youth Choir in August 2019 after having attended Manchester UMC, and singing in Chancel Choir, for about four years. Outside of Manchester, I teach 6-8 grade choir at Pattonville Heights Middle School in the Pattonville School District. I have be teaching middle and high

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