When Dave was appointed to First UMC of Leavenworth in 2018, it was a homecoming. A fifth generation Kansan, he decided to move from Colorado back to the Great Plains. Since then, Dave has led the church with enthusiasm and vitality. He is a devoted follower of Jesus who preaches the Gospel of Jesus and the authority of the whole scripture. Dave is a lifelong Methodist who was baptized in his hometown of Seneca, KS.
Every major spiritual life event has occurred in the Wesleyan/Methodist tradition. In 1988, Dave married Rhonda who is a native of WaKeeney, KS. Taylor came along in the summer of 1999. After graduating from Bethany College, Lindsborg KS, Dave taught middle social studies for fifteen years in three Colorado school districts and coaching as well. He earned his MA in Elementary Education – Middle School in 1997 from
University of Northern Colorado.
The call to ministry led the Yorks to Asbury Theological Seminary (ATS) in Wilmore, KY from 2002 -2006 where Dave earned academic honors in addition to his Master of Divinity degree. Dave’s first UMC appointment was in Pueblo West, CO at SonRise Church, A United Methodist Ministry. His eleven-year staying was highlighted by opening a new facility, ministry in Sierra Leone, West Africa and watching the congregation triple in size during his tenure. Dave earned his Doctor of Ministry degree from ATS in 2016. The return to the Great Plains Conference was marked by one year in Laurel, NE.
It was from Laurel that the call came to preach in Leavenworth. Dave is known for excellent preaching in a conversational, Bible based style. He enjoys working together in outreach to the community with other churches. Dave has a heart for people. His hobbies include all things baseball, especially the Kansas City Royals. Dave’s goal of visiting all major league parks is a passion project. He loves to sing and read.
The Yorks are a dog family, too!
York Family 2023
Dave’s baptism c. 1966
Rev. Dr. David York
Senior Pastor
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