PASTOR

A native of Birmingham, Alabama, Rev. Caitlin Harper has served United Methodist congregations in Birmingham’s West End since 2015. After graduating from Emory University’s Candler School of Theology, she and her spouse Garrett spent a year working on a farm with some Mennonite friends who ran a CSA. Following her return to Alabama, she was commissioned as a provisional elder in the North Alabama Conference of the United Methodist Church. In 2017, she was ordained in full connection.  She and Garrett live in Birmingham's West End with their two sons.

MINISTER OF COMMUNITY CARE

This man has to dig out his ID to prove his legal first name isn’t “Mister.” (Useless fun fact! It’s William! Zero people call him that.) Mr. Boyd is a solver of problems, a fount of accountability, and the actual oldest person you have ever met. (Ask him how close he is to 100!) Mr. Boyd is everywhere. Not only does he coordinate WE Garden ministries, but he also attends to community crises, taking care of neighbors when they need prayer, a ride, a listening ear. His unwavering high standards coupled with his compassion make him an absolute jewel of a person.

ADMINISTRATIVE COORDINATOR

Tessa Ford (Murcks) was born and raised in Columbiana, Alabama. In 2008 she began volunteering at Calera First United Methodist, ranging from helping with children's church, to giving a Sunday morning sermon for Discovery Weekend, and any need in between. Since then she has filled many roles for internships and other staff positions for Moody United Methodist, Trinity West Homewood, and Irondale United Methodist. In 2025, she began serving alongside West End Community Church as the Administration Assistant. She and her husband, Alex, live in Springville, Alabama, with their dog and two cats.

INTERIM WE LEARN COORDINATOR

Since moving to Birmingham in 2022, Ashanti has fallen in love with the city and everything it has to offer. Although not originally from the area, she has definitely been planting roots. Ashanti is always looking for ways to connect and be a part of the communities within and around Birmingham. She serves in the Alabama national guard and is working towards her bachelors degree in psychology. Ashanti is so excited to be apart of  and grow with the WE Learn team!