Contact the pastor

Rev. Cliff Hudson became the 48th pastor of First Cumberland Presbyterian in August, 2005. Rev. Hudson is a graduate of the Program of Alternate Studies, a program of studies administered by the Memphis Theological Seminary of the Cumberland Presbyterian church. He is the former pastor of Richard City CP Church and the former Associate Pastor of First Cumberland, Chattanooga. He currently serves as General Assembly Vice-Moderator and as Chair of the Advisory Committee of the Program of Alternate Studies. Cliff has served in many capacities in Tennessee-Georgia Presbytery and has also served on the Board of Trustees of the Historical Foundation of the CP and CPCA churches. Reflecting the deep commitment to local ministry of our church, Cliff currently serves as Board President of Habitat for Humanity of Cleveland and Bradley County and as Chairman of the Board of The Caring Place. Cliff and his wife, Jill, have a blended family of two sons, Clifford and his wife Ashley, Jamie, a daughter, Erika, and granddaughter, Lucy.

Rev Jen Newell became our Associate Pastor in 2009 and continues to direct our Christian Education and Children's Ministries. She will graduate from the Program of Alternate Studies in July of 2010. She earned her B.A. in economics with a minor in political science & music from UTC. Jen has extensive Christian Education experience and is deeply involved in many aspects of our total church ministry. She currently serves on the Board of Christian Education of Tennessee-Georgia Presbytery. Jen and her husband Chuck have three children- Ellie, Evan, and Zoe.

Patti Kuhns is our organist/pianist. Her skill and spirit is quickly noticed as she leads us in worship. Classically trained, Patti is likely to play Bach while spicing it with Mosie Lister and other great Gospel musicians. She provides us with worshipful music which soothes and challenges one’s soul.

Cam Zvolerin is the church secretary. It is her voice that will likely greet you when you call the church office. Cam has served our church for over 21 years. She is an invaluable resource to the Pastor, staff and congregation.

Serving as our pianist is Frances Swafford. Frances is involved in many aspects of worship as she serves as chairperson of the worship committee and also sings in the Chancel Choir.

Kathy Morelock is our Adult Choir Director. Kathy brings enthusiasm, a broad knowledge of church music, and a beautiful voice to her position of leadership.

Lisa Hambright is our Youth Director. You can read more about Lisa and our youth ministry by clicking on our youth pages.

Rachel Cook is our Children's Music Director. She leads our LOGOS music ministry, teaches our young people how to read and perform music, and conducts our children's choir and the Cumberland Chimes.