The Reverend Chris E. Black

 Chris became the Pastor of 1st United Methodist of Madisonville on July 1st, 2021. He is married to Julie, who works as a CPA for a company in Knoxville, TN. They have two daughters: a 4-year-old daughter named Sydney, and a newborn named Molly - both of whom are totally adored, as is also a dog named Jack. 

Chris became a Christian, and disciple, as a youth at his home church of Fountain City UMC in Knoxville, TN. After receiving his BA from Tennessee Wesleyan University in 2008, Chris received his Master of Divinity degree at Emory University’s Candler School of Theology in 2015. His studies in seminary centered on preaching, Wesleyan Theology, systematics, and Church leadership. In the past, Chris has been on staff or served churches in Knoxville, Chattanooga, and Oak Ridge, TN. 

Chris is passionate about teaching, serving in mission, and building relationships with people from all walks of life. He believes the United Methodist Church can have a tremendous influence on the community around it, and those who are most vulnerable within it. His hope is that all who come to worship or to serve at 1st United Methodist might encounter Jesus Christ in new ways, and come to follow him closer as disciples.

Chris is usually around the church office Monday through Thursday, and you can find him in the Sanctuary or the welcome area on Sunday mornings. If you are interested in learning more about the ministries of 1st Madisonville UMC or just want to chat about a faith question, a joy, or a struggle then please reach out to him to set up a meeting.

Chris’s best contact emails are: revchrisblack1@gmail.com or cblack@firstumcmadisonville.org