About Our Church

Reverend Kayla Carney,
Lead Pastor

Pastor Kayla loves being with people, connecting with them, and providing pastoral care. She has special gifting with children’s and family ministries, and also believes strongly in collective worship and fellowship. She has a gentle touch with children that can be seen during the children’s time in Sunday worship.

Among her favorite scripture passages are those verses in 1 John 4 that stress the importance of knowing God and His love – His perfect love that drives out fear.

Frank Mulligan, Tech Director

Meet Frank, Director of Technology at Open Hearts. You will find Frank behind the sound board and computer every Sunday morning. Frank and wife Sarah are parents to two active children. They stay busy with school activities, 4-H projects, a huge dog and lots of chickens. Frank’s happy place is getting to play board games with his children. When asked about favorite food…Indian food wins – hands down! If that’s not available, Mexican food is the next best.

Paula Davis,
Children/Youth Director

Paula Davis, Children/Youth Director

Meet Paula Davis, Children/Youth Director for Open Hearts United Methodist Church.

Paula is a long-time member of Open Hearts and a retired teacher (if there is such a thing), and has been involved in children’s ministry for many years. She brings her talents and love of children and teaching to our Sunday morning Children’s Church, Wednesday night children’s and youth program, and summer Vacation Bible School. All people are important to Paula, but she has a heart for those with special needs.

When not working, Paula enjoys spending time with her son Joe and his family. Paula has many outside interests to fill her spare time, including bowling, golfing, and playing games. She is also learning to play piano, a talent that will be appreciated by many, especially the children. On Saturday mornings, you will find Paula at CMH Parkview Care Facility, leading a group in an old-fashioned hymn and gospel sing. This is in addition to being a substitute teacher in the Bolivar Public School system.

One of Paula’s favorite scriptures is “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me” (Philippians 4:13). Paula brings that Christ-like strength to Open Hearts UMC.

Tasha Crouch, B.U.M. Kids Director

Bethany Sherry, Music Director

Meet Bethany, the face of the music department at Open Hearts. Under her skillful direction, the Open Hearts choir performs beautiful songs every Sunday as well as special songs for the season. Bethany plays guitar and harp as well as piano and a number of other instruments. She has been gifted with a beautiful singing voice. Outside of “work”, Bethany enjoys jam sessions with her very musically talented family. One little known fact is that Bethany’s mom, who is also a talented musician, taught her how to play the harp. Some of Bethany’s favorite things are brownies, books, crocheting, and relaxing at the lake.

Mark & Kira Barb, Special Needs Directors

Mark and Kira Barb are the face of the Bolivar/Polk County Night to Shine annual event. Mark and Kira each bring unique talents and gifts to this ministry for people with special needs, ages 14 and up, and their caregivers. Mark is a software engineer, and Kira is owner of a pet retreat and grooming service. Preparation for Night to Shine begins months before the event, and Kira is hard at work planning and coordinating all the myriad details of this special prom. She works with local and area volunteers, sponsors, and host facilities to ensure a night to remember for all who attend, in other words – all the details. Mark focuses on safety and security, working with local EMS and law enforcement.

When asked what this ministry means to you, the reply was, “The fun and fulfillment of this night makes all the months of planning and preparation worthwhile. Seeing the love and joy, not just on those with special needs, but watching the parents and caregivers relax and have a good time with smiles on their faces, as well as all who took part in planning, preparation, and serving, is a blessing…there’s a ripple effect in place. The joy spreads from one to another.” Kira also said, “Night to Shine is the one night of the year I most look forward to.”

Ashley Lasiter, Office Administrator

Liz Schuber, Financial Administrator

Meet Liz Schuber, Financial Administrator at Open Hearts.

Linda Beeghly, Facilities Administrator

Meet Linda, Facilities Administrator at Open Hearts UMC. Linda is the friendly face, seen in the early morning hours, keeping our facility sparkling and ready for special events as well as Sunday mornings. Linda is energetic and will tackle any project within her skill set. Linda and husband David enjoy traveling the United States via tour bus, and adding miniature lighthouses to their collection. Linda loves Mexican food, reading, and sports….”Go, Chiefs!”

Adelyn, Childcare Worker

Adelyn is the Childcare Worker at Open Hearts. Adelyn is a Bolivar native, living with her parents as she attends Bolivar High School. She is active in many extracurricular activities at school, including school athletics. Adelyn is a member of the girls’ basketball team and runs cross country track. Adelyn has her eye on a career in the medical field, and plans to attend college after graduation from BHS.

On Sunday mornings, you will find Adelyn in the Wiggle Room with babies, toddlers, and restless children. Adelyn keeps your little one entertained, while keeping an eye on the child’s physical needs. She connects with the “littles”, and we see happy children in Adelyn’s care.