Laura Rasor

Lead Pastor

About Me — Grew up just up the road in Emory. Did not attend Emory & Henry but say I was raised by Emory & Henry. My father taught in the History Department there for 35 years. The campus was my playground. College professors were my Sunday School teachers at Emory UMC. Lifelong UM (in fact, my grandparents on both sides were in the Methodist family as well).

I am married to David Schoeni, also a lifelong UM, who grew up in Kansas City.  He is a professional cellist and loves to ride his bicycle.

What I like to do for fun and relaxation — I like to hike in the mountains and hang out with my husband and our dog named Bowie.

Favorite food — chocolate, lots of chocolate – don’t feel like dessert is worth the calories unless it is chocolate.

Favorite music — Imagine Dragons (the only concert I’ve been to in the past several years where most of the attendees were younger than I am); I grew up going to Carter Family Fold so love Rhythm & Roots; appreciate classical, as well, especially when my husband is playing his cello; have always sung in church choirs, played handbells, I play a little guitar (at least enough for people to sing along).

Favorite vacation spot — camping by a stream in the mountains; Rocky Mountain National Park is where my husband and I got married.

Bible character I most identify with — Esther becasue I am always trying to find the courage to be faithful “for such a time as this”.

Favorite Bible verse — “And what does the Lord require of you but to do justice, and to love kindness, and to walk humbly with your God?” Micah 6:8

What I like best about State Street UMC — It’s commitment to missions locally, regionally, nationally and internationally. Working to make disciples of Jesus Christ for the transformation of the world.