The Reverend Dr. Joseph (Jody) Welker, Jr.

Jody Welker serves as Pastor and Head of Staff; he began his service to “the Kirk” in July, 2004.  He came to the Kirk from First Presbyterian Church in Newton, NC.  He has also served congregations in Red Springs, NC, Bristol, TN, Morehead City, NC and Auburn, AL.

Jody was raised in Jacksonville, Florida and is married to Sharon.  They have two children, Anna and Joe.  Jody’s education includes the completion of the B.S. degree in Education at Auburn University and a Doctor of Ministry degree from Union Theological Seminary in Richmond, Virginia.  He has received training in administration, leadership development, spiritual growth and congregational health from the Alban Institute.

Jody is active in Presbytery, serves on the board of the Career and Personal Counseling Service (of the Synod) and was a 2004 Commissioner to General Assembly.  He has a passion for youth and children as he has been a presenter for the LOGOS Systems Associates for several years.  Missions are important to him as he has served twice as a mission trip leader to Zambia for the Medical Benevolence Foundation, initiated annual adult and youth mission trips to Mexico (along with other destinations) throughout his ministry.

Jody enjoys social time with family and friends and attending sporting events.  He plays golf as a “social duffer”, plays tennis, and walks for exercise.  Jody and Sharon enjoy time in the mountains.

Read Jody's sermons at the Kirk Sermon Archive.