Our Staff
Meet Our Leadership Team
Rev. David Lessner
Senior Pastor
Tell us something about your family?
I’ve been married to Lyndsey since 2006. We have two children, Ardyn and Chyler.
My wife, Lyndsey, works for Zoe Empowers, a non-profit that empowers orphans and vulnerable children to be self-sufficient business owners. Our children love playing outside and have big imaginations.
What is your favorite Bible verse?
As God’s chosen ones, holy and beloved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, meekness, and patience. Bear with one another and, if anyone has a complaint against another, forgive each other; just as the Lord has forgiven you, so you also must forgive. Above all, clothe yourselves with love, which binds everything together in perfect harmony. And let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, to which indeed you were called in the one body. And be thankful. Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly; teach and admonish one another in all wisdom; and with gratitude in your hearts sing psalms, hymns, and spiritual songs to God. And whatever you do, in word or deed, do everything in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him.
~ Colossians 3:12-17
What is your educational background?
I hold a BA in Religion from Texas Christian University (TCU). I also have a Masters of Divinity (M.Div.) from Emory University.
How long have you been on staff at Creekwood UMC?
January 2015
Describe your current role at the church?
As the Lead Pastor, I get the privilege of helping us listen to God’s direction and desire for our church and equip and inspire our staff and laity to realize God’s ways in all aspects of life. On top of this and regular leadership duties like preaching, I regularly offer pastoral care and counseling, teaching, and organizing the ministries of our church to fit around our mission, vision, and values.
What has been your ministry experience in the past?
Prior to Creekwood, I served as an Associate Pastor at Stonebridge United Methodist Church, leading a contemporary worship environment and our sports ministries. Before that, I served in youth and young adult ministry roles in Kansas and Georgia.
Anything else you’d like to add?
I’ve been asked about my passions outside of Christ and the church. They regularly include exploring with my family, any variety of sports, chocolate milkshakes, grilling and eating meat, and board games of any type.
Wendy McConney
Pastor of Congregational Care
Tell us something about your family?
I’ve been married since 1990, to Rick.
We have a daughter, Krista Quinn, graduate of Texas A&M WHOOP!! Krista is married to Evan and presently living in Atlanta, GA.
We also have a son, Kevin, a graduate of Texas Tech Wreck’Em. He just became a dad in January 2020 with Victoria giving her their first grandchild Finnegan. Kevin and their family are living in Plano.
I grew up in Montreal Canada.
What is your educational background?
I hold a BA and a BS in Theology from McGill University (Montreal). I also hold a Masters of Divinity (M.Div.)
How long have you been on staff at Creekwood UMC?
Mid 2010
Describe your current role at the church?
I came to Texas in 1997. I was an Associate Pastor in Children’s Ministry at Creekwood, however, in January 2020, I decided to slow down just a bit and took a part-time position at Creekwood as Associate pastor of congregational care. That’s my second passion after Children’s Ministry. I love visiting people, helping those who just need to know God is listening and is still there. I love helping those that need to know that they are not alone and not forgotten.
What is your favorite Bible verse?
He has told you, O mortal, what is good; and what does the Lord require of you but to do justice, and to love kindness, and to walk humbly with your God?
Anything else you want to share?
I love hiking and camping. If I ever get a lot of spare time, I’ll want to learn how to quilt.
wmcconney@creekwoodumc.org
Jay Andrews
Director of Operations
Here’s some information to get to know Jay a bit better.
Tell us something about your family?
I’ve been married to Kelly since 1998.
We have two dogs: Choo Choo & Honey Grove.
What is your favorite Bible verse?
Proverbs 3: 5-6 – Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not rely on your own insight. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths.
Tell us about your educational background.
I hold a BA from Dallas Baptist University, an MDiv from Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary. CPE: Clinical Pastoral Education (Chaplain Training) from Baylor Scott & White in Dallas.
How long have you been on staff at Creekwood UMC?
I’ve been on staff since February 2024
What is your role at the church?
Operations Manager: I make sure that the budget and the building work like they should so that everyone can focus on ministry.
Is there anything else you’d like to share with us?
I was raised in church, and have ministered in every aspect of the church’s ministry; however, it has mainly been in youth and pastoral ministries.
Kevin Harrington-Bain
Director of Student Ministry
Here’s some information to get to know Kevin a bit better.
Tell us something about your family.
Married to Mackenzie since 2016 (but we’ve been together since we were freshmen in high school)
Mackenzie is a social worker with Mesquite ISD. We don’t have any kids (yet!), but love spending time at the lake, going to see movies and live music, and exploring National Parks.
What is your favorite Bible verse?
It changes frequently, but right now I’m partial to James 3:17-18 – But the wisdom from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, willing to yield, full of mercy and good fruits, without a trace of partiality or hypocrisy. And the fruit of righteousness is sown in peace by those who make peace.
What about your educational background?
I hold a BA in Youth and Family Ministry from ACU, and an MDiv from Brite Divinity.
How long have you been on staff?
I’ve been on staff since March 2024
What is your role at the church?
As the Director of Student Ministry, I work with our young disciples from 6th grade through graduation. I come alongside students as they engage God where they are and grow into who they’re becoming. I help craft education and experiences for students to strengthen their bonds with their faith and with one another, whether through classes, small groups, retreats, mission trips, or any of the myriad ways we embody beloved communities together. Spiritual formation is a communal effort. I’m glad to be a resource and support for the stellar parents and adult volunteers who all come together to cultivate our students’ lived faiths!
What has been your ministry experience in the past?
I served as the student minister at Highland Oaks Church in Dallas from 2016-2022.
Is there anything else you’d like to share with us?
I’ve gone to the comic book store at least once a week for about the past 20 years. I love reading and writing about anything from essays about junk food to theological reflections on horror movies. Some personal heroes include Fred Rogers and Jim Henson. If we’re playing a sport, I’m not too competitive, but if we’re playing a game, I will treat it like it’s life or death.
Caitlin Maxwell
Director of Children’s Ministry
Here’s some information to get to know Caitlin a bit better.
Tell us something about your family?
I’m married to Andrew. We have three children, Mayce, Luke, and Emma.
Our family loves playing games, watching movies together, playing at the park, baking, and going on adventures/traveling. I also love photography!
What is your educational background?
I got my BA in Psychology and English from Austin College and my Masters in Education from SMU.
How long have you been on staff at Creekwood UMC?
I’ve been on staff since December 2020.
Describe your current role at the church:*
My current role is the Director of Children’s Ministries where it’s my privilege to create a culture that encourages, guides, and inspires children from birth to pre-kindergarten towards a relationship with Jesus Christ and others.
Hannah Heres
Director of Communications
Here’s some information to get to know Hannah a bit better:
Tell us something about your family?
I have actually been a member of Creekwood UMC since I was in 4th grade – our family was one of the 13 founding families of Creekwood. I grew up in Fairview and am now currently living in McKinney!
What is your educational background?
I went to Texas A&M (WHOOP!) and majored in Communications with a minor is Psychology.
How long have you been on staff at Creekwood UMC?
I have officially been on staff since April 2025.
Describe your current role at the church:
I am the Director of Communications.
What is your favorite Bible verse?
1 Peter 4:8
Above all, love each other deeply, because love covers a multitude of sins.
Anything else you want us to know?
In conjunction with my role at Creekwood, I also own a luxury wedding and event planning business (MK Event Boutique) and have for the past 10 years! It is a blessing to be able to be on staff on Creekwood while still fulfilling my other passion.
A few things that make me, me –
Nothing makes my heart happier than helping others. I love a good challenge. I believe that the little things matter. I have a love for stationery and fresh cut flowers. I strive to put my heart and soul into everything that I do. Traveling is where I get a lot of my creative inspiration from so I love to travel as much as I possibly can.
John Hames
Director of Worship & Media
A bit about John:
Tell us something about your family.
Married to Kristen since 2013. No kids.
Tell us something about you and/or your family that you don’t mind sharing.
My wife, Kristen, and I love to travel and spend time with our friends
What is your favorite Bible verse?
For by grace you have been saved through faith, and this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God— not the result of works, so that no one may boast.
~ Ephesians 2: 8-9
What is your education background?
Music Performance, SFA
How long have you been on staff at Creekwood UMC?
December 2023
What is your current role at the church?
Worship and Media Director
What has been your ministry experience in the past?
Irving Bible Church, Trietsch UMC, FUMC Plano, FUMC Lewisville
Anything else you want us to know?
I could talk forever about: Coffee, NBA Basketball, Cameras, Music, Food, Harry Potter, Marvel Comics, Tech Gear, Movies, Church.
Brock Johnson
Director of Traditional Music
Here’s some information to get to know Brock a bit better.
Tell us a little bit about your family.
Brock and his wife, Jenna, have two daughters: Molly and Dylan. They are wild and wonderful; our life is full of toddler ballet and soccer, chicken nuggets and pizza, and LOTS of singing and dancing.
What is your favorite bible verse?
Romans 8:28
What is your educational background?
Brock received his undergraduate degree from Oklahoma State University, his masters degree from the New England Conservatory, and received his Doctorate of Vocal Performance and Pedagogy from the University of North Texas.
How long have you been on staff at Creekwood UMC?
Brock joined the staff of Creekwood UMC on January 1, 2025, where he currently serves as the Director of Traditional Worship. Brock’s hobbies include anything in the yard, singing in the Dallas Symphony Chorus, teaching adjunct music classes in the Collin College System, and getting his hair and nails done by his two and three year old daughters.
Christina Paxton
Office Manager
Here’s some information to get to know Christina a bit better.
Tell us something about your family?
Zach and I have been married for almost 6 years and we have a sweet daughter named Chloe Grace.
As a family, we love traveling, going on adventures with Chloe and attending sporting events.
What is your educational background?
I graduated from Baylor University with a Bachelor’s Degree in Communication Sciences and Disorders (Speech Pathology) and a Masters Degree in Special Education from Stephen F Austin.
How long have you been on staff at Creekwood UMC?
I’ve been on staff since July 2024.
Describe your current role at the church:*
My current role is Office Manager.
What is your favorite Bible verse?
Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer – Romans 12:12
Anything else you want us to know?
I’m a documentary enthusiast – people come to me for recommendations and I’ll happily share my (long running) list! In my free time, I love baking and cooking.
Kelly Loter
Assistant Director of Operations
Here’s some information to get to know Kelly a bit better.
Tell us a little bit about your family
I am blessed with a wonderful family, including my three daughters, who mean the world to me. They are my greatest joy and inspiration, and they keep me on my toes—because let’s be honest, raising three daughters should come with a trophy.
What is your favorite bible verse?
“Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to Him, and He will make your paths straight.” – Proverbs 3:5-6
This verse reminds me daily that God’s plan is greater than mine. And trust me, I’ve tried my own way enough times to know that His way is always better.
What is your educational background?
I graduated from Texas Tech University with a degree in Advertising and a minor in Marketing, and I’ve been in the business world for over 30 years. That’s long enough to know that I still don’t know everything—but I can fake it pretty well.
How long have you been on staff at Creekwood UMC?
I’ve been at Creekwood United Methodist for nearly three years now, and I can honestly say it’s the BEST thing that has ever happened to us. For the first time, I feel plugged into a church that truly feels like home—surrounded by amazing people who make this place special.
Describe your current role at the church.
I handle all the physical tasks that need to get done to set up for Sunday services, along with organizing weekly events and special occasions. Basically, if something needs to be arranged, moved, or set up, I’m your guy. Oh, and I make the coffee on Sunday mornings, so if you have complaints…well, you don’t. ☕😂
Anything else you’d like to add?
Creekwood isn’t just a church to me—it’s family. I’m grateful for this community, the friendships, and the chance to serve in a place that feels like home. Plus, if you see me around, just assume I’m probably moving something heavy or making sure the coffee is flowing—because priorities.
Phyllis Carlin
Assistant Director of Traditional Music
Here’s some information to get to know Phyllis a bit better.
Tell us a little bit about your family.
My family, including my dad, mother, younger sister and I, moved from Arkansas to Grand Prairie, Texas when I was five years old. I was raised by strong Christian parents in a Baptist church my entire life. In 1999, I married Glenn Carlin and we were together for 25 years until he passed in October 2024.
What is your favorite bible verse?
Phillippians 4:13 — “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.” This is one of my favorite verses as it promises strength from the Lord, no matter the situation and God always keeps His promises.
What is your educational background?
After graduating from Grand Prairie High School in 1969, I spent 2 years at Dallas Baptist as a music education major before transferring to Baylor where I graduated in 1973 with a Bachelor in Music Education.
How long have you been on staff at Creekwood UMC?
I accepted the position of Traditional Service Pianist at Creekwood almost 14 years ago when it was first established in 2011. I feel very strongly that the Lord led me to Creekwood. Providing music as one of the worship leaders for this service has been an enormous source of joy and fulfillment over the years.
Describe your current role at the church:
In addition to playing the piano for the Traditional Service, I also direct Creekwood Bells, the adult handbell choir that has functioned for approximately 13 years. This group works diligently to lead in worship several times a year. I am also available to play for the Celebration class when needed, as well as several funeral and memorial services through the year.
Nancy Tabor
Assistant Director of Preschool Ministries
Here’s some information to get to know Nancy a bit better.
Tell us something about your family.
My husband, Bill, and I have been married for 38 years. We have three married children and six lovely grandchildren.
My daughters and their families also attend Creekwood, so the success of this ministry is very near and dear to my heart. In my free time, I enjoy reading, volunteering, and making fun memories with my family.
What is your educational background?
I am a graduate of Plano Senior High School and Austin College.
How long have you been on staff at Creekwood UMC?
I’ve been on staff since July 2024.
Describe your current role at the church.
My current role is Director of Preschool Ministries.
As the new Director of Preschool Ministries at Creekwood, I welcome children and their families as they arrive and provide support in the infant, toddler, and preschool rooms on Sunday mornings.
What is your favorite Bible verse?
Let all that you do be done in love. 1 Corinthians 16:14
Anything else you want us to know?
I am excited about the opportunity to love on and
Cameron Herren
Student Praise Band Director
A bit about Cameron:
Tell us something about your family.
Currently I live in Mckinney Texas with my partner Julia Hu, and share a property with my father Thomas.
What is your favorite bible verse?
Matthew 7:22-23 (KJV): 22 Many will say to me in that day, Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in thy name? and in thy name have cast out devils? and in thy name done many wonderful works? 23 And then will I profess unto them, I never knew you: depart from me, ye that work iniquity.
What is your educational background?
I graduated from Collin College with an Associates in Performing Arts and focus in Jazz Guitar, and graduated Summa Cum Laude from Texas A&M Commerce with a Bachelors in Classical Piano Performance.
How long have you been on staff at Creekwood UMC?
Around 6 years with a bit of a break between.
Describe your current role at the church
I am the Keyboardist and Band Leader for the Contemporary Worship Band. I also coach the Youth Worship Band.
Anything else you’d like to add?
Always feel free to reach out to me and communicate any concerns or questions.
