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Rev. Dr. Mary Beth Hartenstein is the Pastor of Justice and Compassion at Manchester UMC. She is responsible for developing, organizing, and managing the Congregational Care Ministry of Manchester UMC in collaboration with key stakeholders. She also supports the congregation and community through her presence, prayers, and coordination of resources.

Mary Beth grew up on a dairy and grain farm in northwest Ohio and graduated from The Ohio State University (BS in Home Economics Education). She holds a Master of Divinity from Lancaster Theological Seminary (Lancaster, PA) and a Doctor of Ministry from Eden Theological Seminary. She has completed five units of Clinicial Pastoral Education.

Mary Beth served for nearly 8 years as the Pastor of Care and Integration at St. Paul United Church of Christ in Waterloo, IL. She also was the pastor Hope United Church of Christ in Hiawatha, Iowa, for nearly 10 years. In addition, Mary Beth has served on various boards and committees in the Iowa and Southern Illinois Conferences of the United Church of Christ.

Mary Beth is married to Mark, a software engineer, and the mother of Adam and Luke. Her hobbies include reading, crocheting, time with family (which is why we made the move from Iowa back to the St. Louis area where Adam and Luke live). Her passions are radical hospitality and welcoming all of God’s people.

Other
Staff

Melanie Knipping

As the Director of Circle of Friends Preschool, I have a passion for helping children and families enjoy a great start to life-long learning! I have an Associate’s degree in Child Development and a Bachelor’s degree in Business. I have been involved in the early childhood education field as both

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Kevin McBeth

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,

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Becky Strickland

As the daughter of a United Methodist minister, Becky Strickland grew up in Missouri and lived all around the St. Louis and surrounding areas. Music and books have been foundations of her life. Becky received a Bachelor’s Degree in English Literature from Central Methodist University, as well as a Masters

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Weather Update- January 24, 2026

Due to Weather Conditions, Manchester UMC will not be conducting services this weekend. 

All services have been canceled. 

 

Watch Snow Special Service Here.