What We Believe
The United Methodist Church: A brief history
The people of The United Methodist Church are part of the second largest Protestant denomination in the United States. Our worldwide connection includes approximately 12.8 million members. Learn more here.
The United Methodist Church recognizes two sacraments, baptism and communion. These two acts have a special place in the church because Jesus commanded them and participated in them. More information here.
A snapshot of both what The United Methodist Church's view on a particular issue is — whether social, political or theological — as well as stories about how the church is engaged in ministry around that topic. Learn more here.
The United Methodist Committee on Relief (UMCOR) is a non-profit 501(c)3 organization dedicated to alleviating human suffering around the globe. UMCOR's work included programs and projects in disaster response, health, sustainable agriculture, food security, relief supplies and more. More information here.
The General Board of Higher Education and Ministry: As the leadership development agency of The United Methodist Church, the General Board of Higher Education and Ministry’s mission is preparing global leaders for a global church and the world. Every elder, deacon and licensed local pastor benefits from our training and candidacy programs. Many young adults find help in clarifying their vocation and God’s call on their lives through our leadership and discernment programs. Scholarship opportunities and more here.
Church Staff
Pastor
Meet Our New Pastor - Mike Ward
On July 1, 2025, I begin a new phase of my journey when I become the pastor at York UMC. I am married to my wife of 30 years, Sue. We have two grown children Colin (25), and Kaylie (23). We also have our rescued dog Duncan in our family.
I am highly relational and enjoy a team approach to all aspects of ministry. Missions and outreach hold special places in my heart as well. I have a love for God and others that is deep and passionate, and based on God’s amazing grace.
I graduated from Ashland University in 1992 where I received my Bachelor of Science degree. In 1992 I graduated from Ohio University with not only my Master of Science degree, but this is where I met Sue as well.
I answered my call to ministry in 2015 and finished the five-year Course of Study at the Methodist Theological School of Ohio (MTSO, Delaware, Ohio) in 2023. I have served the following churches Poe UMC (2016-2018), Cuyahoga Falls First UMC (Associate Pastor, 2018- 2023), Crosspoint UMC (2023- September 2024), Malvern UMC & Waynesburg Centenary UMC (October 2024- June 2025).
I am very much a relational pastor and enjoy building relationship with others as we journey along our spiritual walks together and grow closer to Jesus through the process. I enjoy working alongside others as we serve others as the hands and feet of Jesus.
In my free time I enjoy spending time in God’s creation bicycling, hiking, fishing (I am learning how to fly fish currently). I enjoy working on leaded/ stained glass projects, and I also enjoy exercising.