Meet Our Staff
Reverend Susan Pennock
Senior Minister
Susan was appointed to Bethany UMC in July 2021. She is a graduate of Francis Marion University where she earned a Bachelor of Science in Mathematics. Upon graduation from college, she married Chet, and they lived in various cities across the country. They finally settled in North Carolina where they reared their four children.
After years of lay service leading congregations in response to children impacted by poverty in North Carolina, Susan responded to the call to ordained ministry and completed her masters at Duke Divinity in 2017. She and her husband have returned to her home state of South Carolina where she was ordained an elder in the SCUMC in 2021.
Susan is passionate about following Christ and engaging in relationships that seek to unravel God’s role and plans in our lives, the life of the church, and the world around us. An ardent student and life-long learner, she is committed to both learning and sharing, while remaining attentive to diverse viewpoints. Susan is led by the Holy Spirit in her passion and commitment to the mission of the United Methodist Church: “to make disciples of Jesus Christ for the transformation of the world.”
After years of lay service leading congregations in response to children impacted by poverty in North Carolina, Susan responded to the call to ordained ministry and completed her masters at Duke Divinity in 2017. She and her husband have returned to her home state of South Carolina where she was ordained an elder in the SCUMC in 2021.
Susan is passionate about following Christ and engaging in relationships that seek to unravel God’s role and plans in our lives, the life of the church, and the world around us. An ardent student and life-long learner, she is committed to both learning and sharing, while remaining attentive to diverse viewpoints. Susan is led by the Holy Spirit in her passion and commitment to the mission of the United Methodist Church: “to make disciples of Jesus Christ for the transformation of the world.”
Reverend Rachel Headden
Associate Minister
Rev. Rachel Headden is currently serving as a provisional member in the South Carolina Annual Conference. God willing she will be ordained as an Elder in June 2027. She earned her B.A. in Religious Studies from Stetson University in 2021 and went on to complete her Master of Divinity at Perkins School of Theology in August 2024. She believes deeply in the power of community, and discipleship, striving to create spaces where all people can encounter God in meaningful and intentional ways. Whether preaching, teaching, or walking alongside people, she is committed to fostering a faith that is both transformational and deeply rooted in love and grace.
Cyndi Donaldson
Office Manager/Program Coordinator Cynthia Donaldson, "Cyndi," was born and raised in Charleston, SC. She has been married for 49 years with 2 grown sons and 5 grandchildren. Cyndi earned her A.A. Degree in Computer Technology from T.T.C. and her Bachelor of Technology Degree from Charleston Southern University. She is also certified in Microcomputer Business Applications and Fiber Optic Networking. Cyndi is now retired and enjoys singing, cross-stitching, and of course writing PC base programs for fun. She has been a member at Bethany since 1984 and volunteers as our church program coordinator and office manager. |
Dr. Elaine M. Ross
Music Director Dr. Ross is originally from Michigan and grew up in the Methodist Church. She has over 25 years of music ministry experience. She is the President and CEO of The Southern Atlantic Conservatory of Music and currently serves on the faculty of Charleston Southern University. Elaine has served on the music theory faculty for a number of universities. She is a published recording artist and has performed throughout the world. |
Chantel Morris
Nursery Coordinator Chantel settled into the Charleston area in 2012 and recently moved to James Island with her teenage daughter. She is a Property Manager for Roper St. Francis Healthcare. On Sundays, however, Chantel is our Nursery Coordinator. Her love for God’s precious little ones is evident in the way she cares for them. She would love to spend time with your child during our worship service and Sunday School hour. |