Rev. Dr. Chris Chiyong Oh is an elder in full connection with the United Methodist Church. He was born in rural South Korea, where he grew up surrounded by the nature, fostering a deep connection with the environment. His first major was voice and conducting, but he also developed an interest in theology while studying music in college, eventually leading him to seminary. While attending seminary and serving as a student pastor, he realized that serving and caring for people was the most fulfilling part of his life, understanding God’s calling to a life of ministry.
 

After graduation, he served various Korean Churches and was ordained by the Korean Methodist Church. His family moved to the U.S. in 2010 to pursue further studies. He graduated from Garrett-Evangelical Theological Seminary in Evanston IL, with a Master of Divinity and a Master of Arts in Church Music while serving in two Korean immigrant
churches.
 

Following his studies, he served as a worship and music pastor in Atlanta, GA, then at a campus church in Champaign, IL, and later in the Waupaca Area Regional Ministry in Waupaca WI. He pursued a Doctor of Ministry in Preaching at Chicago Theological Seminary to enhance his preaching skills.
 

He is dedicated to empowering people to become disciples of Jesus Christ. Through his pastoral gifts such as preaching, pastoral care, visitation, and music, he has promoted vibrant worship, congregational growth, engagement, and community outreach.
 

In his free time, He enjoys walking around town or on trails, appreciating nature, listening to various types of music, and cooking his favorite Korean dishes.

 

His family has three dogs: Honey, Sugar, and Boba. His wife, Deborah, is pursuing a Ph.D. in Liturgical studies at the Graduate Theological Union in Berkeley, CA, while serving as the lead pastor at Open Door UMC. Their daughter, Hera, is attending Emory University, double majoring in Political Science and Sociology on the pre-law track.