Leadership

Our Pastor

Pastor Rob Salmonson

I love leading worship and presiding at the Table. Those two acts are what bring me the greatest joy, and it is an honor to be able to do so. The great commission is a Scripture that has defined much of my life and ministry. Another is the washing of the disciples’ feet. It is a reminder that I am called to serve and not be served. I find the core of United Methodist theology to be that God is love.

My wife Vicki and I married in the summer of 2009, right after we graduated from college. We lived in Missouri while I went to seminary, and then to various appointments throughout the Dakotas. Along the way, we had three children. Jacquelin, Rachel, and Alexander. We also have a small dog named Max. One of the big recreation activities we like to do is going camping in our travel trailer. I love to be outside. I like mowing and doing yard work. I also enjoy working on small engines if I have the time. I enjoy playing the piano and organ. I also play the guitar and drums as well.

Education I attended DWU as an undergraduate with a degree in Criminal Justice and minored in psychology, religion and philosophy. I then attended St Paul School of Theology in Kansas City for 3 years and finished my M.Div. at Sioux Falls Seminary in May 2012.

Worship & Children's Ministry Coordinator

Hello, my name is Laurel Laubach.

I grew up in Parkston and Marion, SD and graduated high school from Marion High School. I attended Dakota Wesleyan University in Mitchell, SD and graduated with a B.A.in Elementary Education/Music Education where I also played volleyball, ran track, rodeo team, and was in the choir. I married my husband Nate in 1995 and we have four children: Colton, Kyle, Kaden, and Carlee, who are now almost all grown. I have two sweet grandchildren named Creek Levi and Hazer Edward. They have added a whole new element of joy in my life. In my spare time I like to do photography, play guitar, sing, camp, and ride horses. I have been involved in Worship and the Praise team "One Way Up" at CUMC since 1999! I also love singing with the church children every Wednesday night!

I praise God every day for the gift of music in my life. God is so good!

Office Manager & Custodian

Hi, my name is Sarah Woods! I am a Canton native, graduating in 2001 (used to be Nelson). I have been working as Office Manager of CUMC since 2018, but have found myself jumping in to serve in any ministry that might need help. You will often find me making a fool of myself during Vacation Bible School or goofing off with the rest of the Wednesday night youth group. I live here in town with my husband Ryan, and our three boys Levi, Zach, and Micah. In my free time you will find me exploring nature alongside one of my dogs... because dogs are the best.

Choir Director

My name is Jenna Stearns. I am a native of Canton. I graduated high school in 2008 and from SDSU in 2013, majoring in music education. I taught 5th & 6th grade band in Canton from 2014-2018. I have been directing the church choir since 2014. I live on a farm north of Worthing with my husband Eric, and our three children, Avonelle, Everett, and Oliver.

I enjoy staying home with the kids, waterskiing at the lake, spending time with family and friends, playing the piano, and enjoying a good cup of coffee.