Melinda McDonald, a former language arts teacher in the Polk County Schools, now a minister, has returned to serve as the interim pastor at Columbus United Methodist Church.

Rev. McDonald attended seminary at Gardner-Webb’s Divinity School and has a master of divinity. She also has a master’s degree in elementary education from Morehead State University, Ky., and a bachelor’s degree in English literature from Berea College, Ky.

Rev. McDonald spent 21 years teaching English in public schools throughout the South. She taught eighth grade language arts in Polk County from 2001 to 2008.

Rev. McDonald is married to Eric A. McDonald, the executive vice president of Spartanburg Methodist College. She loves reading, writing, labyrinth walking, creating art in water color and acrylics, baking cookies, bicycling and walking in nature.

“Our United Methodist Church welcomes Rev. Melinda McDonald. Her enthusiasm is contagious. We look forward to a stimulating time of fellowship and worship under her leadership and continued community involvement,” said Lay Leader Mike Whitt.

The Columbus United Methodist Church welcomes all to worship services on Sundays at 9:30 a.m.

On Sunday, Jan. 15, Rev. McDonald will lead a special epiphany/communion service.

Columbus United Methodist is located in downtown Columbus, on North Peak street directly opposite the main entrance to the Stearns Gym.

For more information, contact Mike Whitt, lay leader of Columbus United Methodist Church, at 828-817-2844 or by email at mikewhitt@condar.com.

– article submitted by Cynthia Terwilliger