Staff & Leaders

Rev. Dr. Mary Kay Totty was appointed Lead Pastor beginning July 2020. Mary Kay grew up in the South earning a BA in Religious Studies/English Literature at Louisiana State University and a Master of Divinity from Brite Divinity School, Texas Christian University. In 2015, Mary Kay completed her Doctorate of Ministry in Arts and Theology at Wesley Theological Seminary in Washington D.C. She is a United Methodist ordained elder having served churches of various sizes in Nebraska, West Virginia, Maryland, and Washington D.C.

Mary Kay treasures the rhythm of the church year flowing from one liturgical season to the next. She enjoys planning worship, preaching, teaching, working with congregations to achieve goals and to embody grace through all the various ministries. Mary Kay is married to Rev. Stephen Griffith, a United Methodist ordained elder. They live in the Highlands Neighborhood of nearby Lincoln. In her free time, Mary Kay enjoys creating art — tatted lace, watercolors, and paper crafts.

Administrative Assistant

A Seward native, Emily joined the SUMC staff in 2024. She produces the weekly bulletins, newsletters, and church announcements, maintains the church calendar and membership records, and works with various committees and groups at the church to assist them in their ministries. A member of the SUMC congregation, Emily has served as a volunteer member of the Bright Beginnings Child Development Center Board of Directors since 2018. She and her husband Layne were married at SUMC in 2021 and live in Seward with their daughter and son.

Director of Music & Worship Technology

A life-long member of Seward United Methodist Church, Wess joined the SUMC leadership team in 2018. Wess assists with planning worship and selects hymns & songs to enhance the scripture readings and sermon each week. Wess conducts our Chancel Choir, Handbell Choir, and Praise Team and works in partnership with various musicians and our audio/visual team. Wess shares the joy of music with children during our Wednesday after-school programs, through the production of an annual Christmas program, and each summer at Vacation Bible School. Wess can also be found assisting various groups and teams with their communication, publicity, and technology needs. Wess was baptized, confirmed in faith, and married at SUMC. He and his wife Shannon live in Seward with their son, Gavin.

Adult Choir Accompanist

Pam has accompanied various musical groups at the Seward United Methodist Church . Currently, she serves faithfully as the accompanist for the Adult Choir.

BBCDC Director

More on Valerie coming soon!