Pastor Lori, entered professional ministry in 2004. She has a Bachelor of Science from Indiana University (1992) in Secondary Education, a Master of Divinity from United Theological Seminary (2008) and a Doctor of Ministry from UTS (2012).

Lori believes that compassion and empathy are the foundations of faith that make the Good News of Jesus Christ a reality for all people. She was ordained as a Deacon in 2012 and served in specialized ministry with children, youth and families at Friendship UMC in Cincinnati, Stillwater UMC in Dayton, Concord UMC in Englewood, and South Park UMC in Dayton, as well as serving as an Adjunct Professor at United Theological Seminary, teaching Christian Education Classes, leading Ministry Formation Groups and Mentoring Doctor of Ministry Students.  In 2017 Lori, began the transition to becoming an elder, and was Ordained as an elder in 2019. She has served as the sole pastor at Oakwood UMC in Dayton and as the Senior Pastor at Shawnee UMC in Lima. She is excited to be serving at Broad Street UMC, an historic church in the heart of Columbus, with a legacy of outreach ministries and love for all of God’s children.

Pastor Lori is married to Rev. Tom Miller, who is the pastor at Kirkersville UMC.

Lori and Tom are a blended family with three adult children. Lori’s children are Madeline and Michael and Tom’s son is Sam.

Lori has a passion for teaching and leading worship and enjoys being creative and encouraging people to experience their faith, not just be observers. She loves to meet with people and get to know them, as well as coach others in their calling and gifts for ministry.

In her free time, Lori loves to spend time with her family, being crafty, playing with her dogs (Finny and Josie) and cultivating her newfound love of plants!

You can reach her at: pastorlori@broadstreetumc.net 

The Chancel Choir: Leading Our Voices in Praise

For over two decades, Director Gary Everts has guided our Chancel Choir, elevating our worship experience with rich and inspiring music. Through hymns, anthems, and special musical events, the choir's harmonies enrich our Sunday services throughout the year. Rehearsals are held every Thursday from 7:30 to 9:00 p.m., September through May.

All are welcome to lend their voice to this vibrant ministry. Gary brings years of musical experience and dedication to his role, holding degrees from Westminster College (PA) and Trinity Lutheran Seminary.

Get to Know Our Handbell Leader

Olivia Miller brings extensive experience and a passion for music to her role in the Broad Street UMC music ministry. A long-time member since 2012, she has been an active participant in the Chancel Choir and Ringers on Broad. Olivia holds a Bachelor of Arts in Music with a focus on Education and Voice Performance from Otterbein University. Her impressive musical background includes nearly 30 years of experience in handbell playing and directing. Olivia is driven by the conviction that musical expression is accessible to all. She looks forward to welcoming new members, regardless of experience, to the handbell choir.

Karen White, Seminary Intern

Karen White is a lifelong Columbus, Ohio native and a proud "Buckeye." She is the mother of two wonderful young adults. Her educational journey began at Miami University, where she earned a Bachelor's degree in Psychology, followed by a Master's in Education from The Ohio State University.

Before accepting her call to ministry, Karen served as the Director of Ministry Development at the Mount Olivet Baptist Church, where she worked under the mentorship of Rev. Dr. Charles E. Booth. In August 2020, Karen enrolled at Dayton Theological Seminary and completed her Master's in Ministry. Feeling the guidance of the Holy Spirit to continue her studies, she began her Doctorate Degree in Pastoral Care and Counseling in August 2023.

In her spare time, Karen enjoys reading about the Black experience and cherishes meeting and engaging in conversation with people. Her life is guided by her core beliefs: Love Justice; Seek Mercy; Glorify God.

Saundra, Church Administrative Assistant
Saundra joined the Broad Street staff as the Church Administrative Assistant in June of 2024. A native of Columbus, she is passionate about serving others and counts it a privilege to use her gifts in service to the community. In her daily work, Saundra manages office tasks, publishes the weekly Order of Worship, and handles various communications. She is inspired by the saying that “You will never look into the eyes of someone that Jesus doesn’t love.” Saundra is in the office Monday through Thursday, 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. and can be reached by email at saundra@broadstreetumc.net.