MidSouth Articles, MidSouth Conference

Announcement: Lexington District Presiding Elder

by Rev. Amy Carlson • Published Wednesday, December 17, 2025

We are pleased to announce that Rev. Christopher Morgan, pastor of Centenary Methodist Church in Danville, KY, has been appointed by Bishop Kenneth Levingston as Presiding Elder of the Lexington District of the MidSouth Annual Conference beginning January 1, 2026. Chris succeeds Rev. Jerri Williams, who has been serving not only as the Presiding Elder for the Lexington District, but also, prayerfully led us as the Conference Secretary, was integral to the early formation of the MidSouth as a Provisional Annual Conference, and was the event coordinator for the MidSouth’s first annual conference gathering in 2023, as well as the 2024 and 2025 gatherings. Jerri has blessed the MidSouth many times with her deep love for God, her discernment for a worshipful and reverent focus within the conference, and her sheer joy.

In addition to serving as Presiding Elder, Rev. Chris Morgan became Chairperson of the MidSouth Board of Ministry in June 2025, following the annual conference gathering. After hearing a call to ministry at age 15, he began preaching regularly at 18. He brings a wealth of knowledge to ministry through his Master of Divinity from Asbury Theological Seminary, his Master of Philosophy in Hebrew & Cognate Studies from Hebrew Union College-Jewish Institute of Religion, and his MBA from Louisiana State University in Shreveport.

Alongside his studies and ministry work, Chris has several hobbies, including photography, poetry, visiting museums, and traveling. He married his high school sweetheart, Melinda, 32 years ago. Together, they have five children, ages 20 to 27, and the joy of three young grandchildren.

Rev. Amy Carlson

Amy was the first Director of Communications for the MidSouth, serving from 2024 to 2026 as she laid the foundation for all conference communications. She combines 20 years of marketing, advertising, and communications experience and training with a decade of immersive ministry application for living discipleship. As a leader, Amy comes alongside people and systems to help them thrive through discernment, problem-solving, creativity, and connection, fostering a culture of authenticity. Amy is also the co-founder and lead pastor of Our Story Church, a church plant in Louisville, KY, where she still serves.