Rev. James Dettmer

On Sunday, May 24, Ted Peterson, Staff/Pastor Parish Relations chairperson, announced Bethel’s new projected pastor, James Dettmer, whose first Sunday in the pulpit will be July 5.
James is very excited to be the new pastor coming to Bethel United Methodist and to be in ministry with all of you.

James just graduated from Union Presbyterian Seminary in May with his Masters of Divinity, and has served as Children’s Director at Saint Andrews United Methodist for the past five years. Before deciding to answer the call to go to seminary, he had been a teacher, working in early childhood and elementary education. James completed his undergrad at William and Mary, where he met his wife Alicia, who is a physical therapist. Together they have two wonderful children. Rebecca is 12 and is currently wrapping up sixth grade at Wilder Middle School. She is part of the specialty center there. Wesley is 6 and finishing kindergarten at Glen Allen Elementary School.

Originally from Portsmouth, Virginia, James has lived in the Richmond area for the past 13 years and currently lives in Glen Allen. He enjoys spending time with his family watching cooking shows, playing games, and most recently going for walks around the neighborhood. He is passionate about teaching and pastoral care, and he can’t wait to get to know his new church family.

Please continue to pray for James, Alicia, Rebecca, and Wesley. Let us extend our grateful welcome and Christian love to James and his family.