Ron Headshot

A lifelong United Methodist, Pastor Ron Beaton was baptized and confirmed at First United Methodist Church in Kennett – deep in the Missouri Bootheel. He graduated from Murray State University in Murray, Kentucky and was active in the Murray State Wesley Foundation, the United Methodist Campus Ministry. It was there that he met his now wife, Kasey. 

Pastor Ron and Kasey both attended Duke Divinity School and earned their Master of Divinity Degrees. Ron was ordained an elder in the United Methodist Church in 2014, and has served United Methodist congregations in Montrose, Appleton City, Rockville, Dexter, and Farmington, Missouri.  He also serves on the Board of Ordained Ministry and is the chair for the Order of Elders. 

Pastor Ron has a heart for leading congregations to love God and love neighbor in ways that are imaginative and joyful. He’s passionate about connecting the liturgy of worship with the liturgy of our daily lives.  He has a heart for those on the margins of life, and is eager to join with Manchester UMC in seeking ways to “do justice, love mercy, and walk humbly with our God.” (Micah 6:8)

Pastor Ron and Kasey have two lively children. Isaac loves soccer, playing the piano, and reading Harry Potter. Hannah loves riding horses and doing gymnastics. Pastor Ron enjoys theater, music, traveling, playing golf, eating good food, and cheering on the Duke Blue Devils, St Louis City, and the St. Louis Cardinals! 

Other
Staff

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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Scott Hammon

Scott Hammon is the Facilities Maintenance Supervisor at Manchester UMC.  Scott started working at MUMC and learning our buildings on Tuesday, January 16, 2024. Scott first started learning to repair and maintain church facilities when he was 10 years old and was the grandson of the preacher.

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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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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.