Church family meet Stacy E. Downing, an experienced United Methodist pastor with a rich history of serving congregations in Indiana since 1998. Stacy holds a B.A. in Religious and Classical Studies from Indiana University and an M.Div. from Boston University School of Theology. She’s also invested in her continual growth, having pursued Leadership Development for Ministry at Virginia Theological Seminary and introductory Coach Training through Excellence in Ministry Coaching. Currently, she’s furthering her education through enrollment in the Pastoral Academy for Missional Excellence.

Stacy’s journey has taken her from Cumberland, RI, to Washington, Bright, and Fort Wayne, Indiana, serving as both an associate pastor and lead pastor. Her recent ministry roles include leadership positions in Hoagland, Vincennes, and Warsaw, Indiana. For the past six months, she’s served in a dual appointment as Lead Pastor of Celebration UMC and Associate Pastor of Warsaw First UMC. Throughout her career, Stacy has demonstrated a commitment to innovation and service, launching contemporary worship services, leading disaster relief teams, and fostering community engagement initiatives.

In addition to her ministry, Stacy shares her life with her husband, John Downing, who works as an Inforce Coordinator for Lincoln Financial Group in Fort Wayne. They are grateful for John’s ability to telecommute, allowing him to work from home. Their family is completed by their daughters, Noah (14) and Bayleigh (10), along with their beloved rescued Black Lab mix, Analeigh.

Stacy’s guiding Scriptures, Matthew 11:28-30 and Psalm 46:10, reflect her commitment to finding rest in faith and trusting in God’s guidance.