You're Welcome Here
Welcome to Leo United Methodist Church where we like to build bridges between people and Jesus. What that means is that we will welcome and encourage you if you are brand new to attending church, or if you have begun your life with Jesus and are looking for a place to worship surrounded by a supportive group who are all in varying stages on their journey with Him.
OUR HISTORY
We are one of the oldest congregations in northeast Indiana. Our Methodist roots were laid down by circuit rider Reverend Edward Hickland in 1834. More recently, in striving to meet growing ministry needs in our community, we changed locations in 1978, moving to our current address at 13527 Leo Road. It is from this beautiful campus that we continue to strive to meeting the changing ministry needs in Leo/Cedarville and the surrounding area. The spiritual DNA of Leo Methodist Church is Wesleyan. Even though we have disaffiliated from the United Methodist Church in June of 2023, we are still a decidedly Wesleyan congregation. It is through this theological lens that we see the world and respond to needs of our community and beyond.
OUR MINISTRIES
In Acts 1:8, Jesus instructs his disciples to be His witness in Jerusalem, all of Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the Earth, and so our congregation seeks to share along the same path, from our community of Leo/Grabill, such as Gateway Woods and the Grabill Food Bank, to Lifehouse in Fort Wayne, to world-wide ministries such as Tapio School in Haiti, which was constructed and is supported directly from our congregation.
Rev. Jeff Smith
Lead Pastor
Pastor Jeff Smith began leading Leo Methodist Church in July of 2020. He brings with him over twenty years’ experience leading churches and serving in various denominational leadership roles. Pastor Jeff brings far more than his considerable ministry experience to serve at Leo GMC. Accompanying him is his wife of three decades, Rhonda Smith. An educator by profession, Rhonda brings her passion for teaching bible studies, with a particular bent for leading women's bible studies. In addition, Rhonda has a huge heart for missions, serving diligently and faithfully in multiple ministries over the years. When asked about his call to ministry, Pastor Jeff will often quip: "I have come to the conclusion that Rhonda has been called to be a Pastor's spouse and I'm just the chump along for the ride." On a more serious note, Pastor Jeff states that his ministry would be dramatically less effective if not for Rhonda's support and guidance. An avid reader, Pastor Jeff is a huge fan of Christian apologist CS Lewis. He also loves historical novels. Author James Michener is a particular favorite. And much to Rhonda's chagrin, Pastor Jeff is an unapologetic science fiction buff. Come get to know us and get to know our pastor and Rhonda. Their personal mission statement is that they exist for one reason and one reason only: To build bridges between people and Jesus. As you get to know Pastor Jeff and Rhonda, you will soon learn that they don’t just talk the talk of that statement, they try to diligently live it.
Christa Dillman
Church Administrator
Christa, is a proud mother of an intelligent, funny, and kind son. She is a voracious reader who loves to write, watch movies, listen to music, and torture herself by watching hockey (if you're a Chicago fan, you understand). Her office hours are Monday through Thursday, 9:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.
Bonnie Adams
Financial Secretary
Bonnie is married to Mark and has two handsome sons. As in most families, her sons are very different! One son is married-with three daughters and another on the way. The other son is single and enjoying life. Once Mark and Bonnie set off on their adventure, they moved seven times, across 5 different states, and ended up in Leo, Indiana. She enjoys her grandchildren, her precious dog Coco Bean and video games.
Rob Hartley
Building Manager
Rob and his wife, Mary, have a daughter, Sophie, who is still in school. Rob manages the church facilities and can usually find a solution to almost any problem that arises and is wise enough to never turn down any offers of help.