Rev. Dr. Timothy Karvonen

pastortimo@bereaumc.org

My name is Rev. Dr. Timothy Karvonen (Pastor Timo) and I am pastor of Berea United Methodist Church. I am an ordained elder in the Kentucky United Methodist Conference. I received my elder’s ordination in UMC in Finland before coming to the U.S.

 

I came to the U.S. in late June 1999 as a scholar of the Board of Global Ministries of the UMC (New York) to extend my doctoral studies at Asbury Theological Seminary. I graduated from Asbury in 2003 with two degrees, a doctorate in ministry and master’s degree in Christian education.

 

I received a business and administration degree and a seminary degree (master of divinity) in Finland. In early January 2007 I went back to research studies through the International Divinity School and in May 2010 I completed my doctorate in divinity (originated from England). I have done all my studies along with working in ministry.

 

Pastoral ministry has always been my passion and my first calling!

 

In ministry the best thing to me is of course that I can serve the Lord, but I also love people; I am a people person. Ministry is privilege to me not just my work.

 

We were supposed to go back to Europe after my studies, but we are still here. I guess we just fell in love with Kentucky people.

 

My wife Sirpa and I have three children. Our daughters have their own families and we have five beautiful grandchildren. Our son Mike is a college student and lives in Louisville.

 

In my free time, as a former hockey player I watch hockey every time when possible. I ride my motorcycle when my busy schedule permits. My wife believes I should exercise more outdoors and she may be right. I love to walk when I have time.  

 

I like old movies and especially older westerns. John Wayne is an actor who I don’t get tired of watching on the screen. I also like to watch British movies.

 

To our Berea Community I would say: Come to see us at Berea UMC! This is a special kind of church, with lots of care and love for this community. We are not perfect, but we love the Lord. Please join with us and help us to make Christ known to everyone, no matter who they are or where they come from.

 

Help us to be the Church!

 

With Love and Respect,

 

Pastor Timo