Meet Pastor Jim.
I want people to know they are loved by God, that their story isn’t over, and that there’s a place for them to grow in faith.
REV. JIM HANCOCK · SENIOR PASTOR
Faith for real life.
I was born in Wisconsin and raised mostly in Mississippi. When I was fifteen, I had the chance to preach during a Wednesday evening service, and I began to sense God’s call to ministry. My journey from there took some turns. I spent many years working in business and technology, living in places including Nashville, Boston, and Phoenix, before returning to full-time ministry.
Those years helped me understand some of the pressures families carry: work, finances, parenting, change, and the questions that come with faith. They shape the way I preach and care for people today. I want Scripture to speak clearly to our everyday lives, and I want Bethel to be a place where people can ask questions and keep growing.
I came to serve as Bethel’s pastor in 2024, as the congregation began a new chapter within the Congregational Methodist Church. It is a privilege to walk alongside people here in Stockbridge and our surrounding communities—in joyful seasons and difficult ones alike.
“None of us ever ‘arrive.’ We’re all still growing, still learning, and still dependent on God’s grace.”
Learning and serving together.
At Bethel, we make room for faith to grow throughout life—through worship, Bible study, children’s ministry, meals around the table, and service to our neighbors. I believe ministry happens in everyday conversations as much as it does in a sanctuary.
Alongside my work at Bethel, I serve as Chair of the Georgia Annual Conference of the Congregational Methodist Church and as the CMC General Conference Secretary. I value the relationships among pastors and congregations and the ways we can encourage one another.
My wife Sheryl and I have raised three daughters, and we’re grateful to be grandparents to four grandchildren. Family is one of the great joys of my life and one more reminder of how much we all need grace and encouragement.
If you come to Bethel, I hope we’ll get a chance to meet. Whether you’ve worshiped for years or are just beginning to ask questions, you are welcome here.
Read my conversation with VoyageATL ↗
There’s a place for you at Bethel.
Sunday worship at 10:30 a.m. · 245 Fairview Road, Stockbridge
Plan your visit ↗