STAFF
Rev. Michael Farmer
Pastor
Rev. Mike grew up in Akron and is thrilled to be returning home to lead both Family of Faith UMC and South Arlington UMC. Mike earned a BS in Biology from Mount Union, a MS in education from the University of Akron and a MDiv. from MTSO. Prior to joining us in Akron he pastored at Crossroads UMC and Canton For All People. In his free time he enjoys spending time with his family, refereeing soccer and being in nature.
Dr. Liz Piatt
Certified Lay Minister
Dr. Liz has been a member of Family of Faith since 2014. She is a certified lay minister and loves helping others discover how relevant the Bible is for everyday life.
Jessica Bates
Office Manager
Jessica has been managing all things office-related at Family of Faith since 2017 and will be happy to chat with you about whatever you may need. She is also a real estate agent! She loves Jesus and being a mom most of all.
Ellen Budd
Director of Music
In addition to directing our choir, Ellen works as an elementary music teacher. She has been the choir director at Family of Faith since 2000.
Wil Lane
Custodian
Wil has been Family of Faith’s custodian since 2009. You’ll always see him smiling when you see him around the church. He loves his kids and always has a few minutes to talk sports with you!
Mark Gilbert
Pianist
Mark accompanies our wonderful choir when they are in session September-June. He has been the music leader at our sister church, South Arlington UMC, for many years and we are lucky to have him at Family of Faith as well!
Richard Shirey
Organist
Over a period of 50 years, Richard has been organist at three churches in Akron – Presbyterian, Episcopal and
Lutheran. He has music degrees from the Oberlin conservatory of Music and the University of Illinois. He has also studied in Salzburg, Cologne, Vienna and London.
Lutheran. He has music degrees from the Oberlin conservatory of Music and the University of Illinois. He has also studied in Salzburg, Cologne, Vienna and London.