staff
Robert Sefrit
"I am Robert Sefrit, and I am excited to be the pastor at the Platte City UMC!
At William Jewell, I studied History and Political Science and received a Master of Divinity from Saint Paul School of Theology.
I love spending time with my wife Carly and our two kids, Calla and Asher. Traveling, reading, and just being outside are things I enjoy doing. I also have a passion for helping people connect to Jesus and grow in their faith.
So, I invite you to join us in exploring and growing together in our faith at the Platte City United Methodist Church."
Pastor
Linda Plager
Office Administrator
"I moved to Platte City in 2020 after retiring from a 46-year career with Region V Services in Nebraska City, NE. The last 12 years, I was Director of the agency which supports adults with developmental disabilities.
First Lutheran in Nebraska City was my church home. I served on the Church Council for a number of years, including terms as President, Secretary and Treasurer.
I have three adult children and five grandchildren. My daughters and their families live in Platte City; my son and his family lives in Milford, NE. I share my home with two crazy cats!!
I've attended PCUMC as a guest with my daughter and her family for over ten years. I'm excited to be part of the daily operations of the Church and look forward to meeting you!"
Treasurer
Phyllis VanDyke
Phyllis retired in 2008 from DeLaval, Inc. after more than 20 years of service as Accounts Payable Manager. In 2011, she became the Business Manager for PCUMC
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She and her husband, Terry, have two children and three grandchildren who live in the Kansas City area.
Phyllis enjoys spending time with friends and family, and especially her grandchildren. She is a member of Preceptor Epsilon Chapter of Beta Sigma Phi.
Phyllis has been a member of PCUMC since 1977.
Maintenance Manager
Barney is a retired Postmaster who worked for 34 years before retiring in 2019. He and his wife Marty have two grown children and three grandchildren. After living in Tarkio MO their entire lives, they decided to move to Platte City to be closer to their children and grandchildren. They transferred their membership from the Tarkio UMC to Platte City UMC in 2021.
Barney greatly enjoys spending time with family, traveling, sports and “piddling” around the house. He spent a few months learning the ropes from long-time Maintenance Manager, Terry VanDyke and looks forward to continuing that same level of service and commitment.
Barney Farley
Youth Director
“I am originally from northwest Kansas where I was involved with kids and youth ministry at my church. I attended Fort Hays State University and earned a Bachelor’s degree in Communications and Media studies. Since moving to Kansas City, I have been involved with a local nonprofit that works with low income and at-risk students and families through various outreach programs. I have also been serving at my church in a several capacities.
I enjoy doing anything outdoors such as cycling, hiking, skiing, and anything else that involves a lake or mountains.
I'm truly excited about the opportunity to serve as your Youth Director. I look forward to getting to know each one of you and walking along side of you.”
Justin Weigel
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Children's Director
Delinda has enjoyed a lifetime of caring for children and now she’s excited to share her talents with PCUMC as Children and Family Ministry Coordinator.
Since joining PCUMC in 2013, Delinda has been involved in many areas of ministry including teaching Sunday School, and serving on the Hospitality, Nominations and Program Committees. She and her husband Russ have two grown children and four grandchildren. She enjoys spending quality time with those beautiful grandkids, church activities, camping, boating, swimming, arts and crafts, baking and spending time with family and friends.
Delinda hopes to bring fresh perspectives, share her wealth of experience, implement creative ideas, create a safe and nurturing environment and engage with families in her new role. “I feel VERY blessed to have shared the gift God gave me for the love of children to so many over the years.”
Delinda Rhyne
Contemporary Worship Leader
Josh is a pastor's kid musician, born and raised in Kansas City, MO.
After graduating from Oklahoma City University in 2020 with a BM in Vocal Performance, Josh moved home to Missouri to begin working and leading worship. He has led worship at Liberty Christian Church, Nichols Hills United Methodist Church, and was the primary worship leader for YouthFront Camps for three summers.
He is excited to start a new journey at Platte City United Methodist Church, and looks forward to sharing God's love through music.
Joshua Kelley
Organist
Lynn Sanders
Lynn Sanders has been a part of the Platte City United Methodist church and surrounding community for many years. At the traditional Sunday morning service, Lynn provides organ meditations and accompanies hymns for the congregation.
Lynn was the Platte County High School accompanist for choral and band programs prior to retiring.
In her spare time, Lynn enjoys seeing musicals and cruise vacations.
Worship Media
Dawn Sawle
Dawn Sawle works to create a holistic worship experience as part of the media team, providing visual supplements to the service and technology management.
Dawn is mother to two adult sons who live in the Kansas City area.
On the weekend, she enjoys exploring Kansas City with her husband, John.
