Rev. Benjamin E. Wells
Rev. Benjamin Wells is what you might call a UMC “lifer.” Benjamin is a preacher’s kid who grew up “itinerating” as his father pastored churches across eastern North Carolina. During college, Benjamin began to sense God’s call on his own life and followed that call to Methodist College and later Duke Divinity School. He began his pastoral career in the North Carolina Conference UMC, serving 12 years there, including five years as a College Chaplain. In 2010, Benjamin and his wife, Tobyn Domske Wells, moved to West Virginia, to become the Campus Pastor at Marshall University, where he has served the last fourteen years. In ministry, his passions are teaching and communicating, music, coaching, and mission work teams.
Benjamin is an avid “rail fan” and train photographer, loves Bluegrass music, and never misses a Duke Basketball game. His wife, Tobyn, and he married in 2000. They met while both serving at different churches in Morehead City, NC. Tobyn comes from a long line of Presbyterian pastors and missionaries, which also includes her mother and siblings. Tobyn has over 27 years’ experience working in both local churches and at the District and Presbytery levels in various roles including Christian Ed., youth, camping, media, and consulting. Tobyn currently works part-time at New Hope church in Proctorville and part-time in home-health elder care. Benjamin and Tobyn have a young daughter, McLaurin, who is 6 yrs old and currently in Kindergarten. In their free time, they enjoy being outdoors, especially hiking, paddling, and camping; and enjoying all natural beauty and culture that West Virginia offers.
Music Ministries
Emily Cloer has served as our pianist and choir director since September 2023. She has been a member of Pea Ridge UMC since 2022. Cloer is a graduate of West Virginia State University and Marshall University.
Children’s Ministries
Meredith Mears and Maddie Sansom are the nursery and children’s church workers who care for the Pea Ridge UMC kids each Sunday, plus special events like Vacation Bible School (see photo)! They are both students at Marshall University.
Custodian
Tim Effingham is our church custodian, and does a great job keeping things clean and helping set up for events!
Tech Team
Ron is one of the faithful tech volunteers! We couldn’t do it without him and the many other people who step up to help.