Reverend Don Underwood is in his 26th year as Senior Pastor of Christ United Methodist Church (CUMC). During his tenure, CUMC has experienced rapid growth, doubling worship and Sunday school attendance. The church places great emphasis on lay ministry and missions, and Rev. Underwood has been intentional in developing an organizational style that focuses on ministry rather than management.

Rev. Underwood received his Bachelor's Degree from Southwestern University in Georgetown, Texas and his Masters of Theology from the Perkins School of Theology at Southern Methodist University (SMU) in Texas.

Rev. Underwood and his wife Bobby have two children, Adam and Joshua. Don enjoys quarter horses, golf, hunting and is an instrument rated private pilot. Each week, Rev. Underwood sends an inspirational message via email. Click here to sign up and begin receiving these emails.

Reverend Stacey Piyakhun joined the pastoral staff of CUMC in July 2009. She comes to us with experience in a variety of ministry areas after serving as Youth Director and then Associate Pastor at First UMC of Frisco. Stacey works intentionally with the Adult and Children Ministry departments at CUMC, as well as leading the whole church body with her involvement in worship services, small group experiences, and other service opportunities.

Rev. Piyakhun received a Bachelor of Music degree from West Texas A&M University in Canyon, Texas and her Master of Divinity from the Perkins School of Theology at SMU. She and her husband, Keith, have two children, Emma and Kayla. She enjoys reading, sewing, and spending time with her family.

Reverend Abe Smith serves as Associate Pastor at CUMC. Abe received his Masters of Divinity in May of 2006 from the Perkins School of Theology at SMU. He oversees both the Youth Ministry and Full Court Contemporary Worship. Since beginning his ministry at CUMC in 2002, Abe has enjoyed expanding youth mission opportunities, growing and training the adult leadership team, leading various trips and retreats, and building countless meaningful relationships.

Within the community, Abe speaks with youth at schools and various organizations, consults with churches and non-profits, and serves as a chaplain for the Plano Police and Fire Departments. In looking to his future, he is eager to continue the work God has called him to do.

Abe is happily married to his loving wife, Amy. Amy is a graduate of Baylor University and Ouachita Baptist University and owns her own Kumon Learning Center. They have three beautiful daughters, Abigail Grace, Anna Elizabeth ("Anna Beth"), and Addison Elyse, and one son, James Abram. Whether it is walking in the park, playing in the backyard, or grocery shopping, Abe loves spending time with his family and is thankful for their faithful support.

Reverend Walter Purkey oversees the Serving Others Ministries, as well as, the Pastoral Care and Counseling Ministries. He has been an Associate Pastor at CUMC since the spring of 2000.

Rev. Purkey graduated with a BS in Electrical Engineering from SMU and has Master of Theology and Doctor of Ministry degrees from the Perkins School of Theology at SMU. His concentration for his Doctor of Ministry was in Marriage and Family Counseling. Rev. Purkey is a Texas Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist offering individual, couples and family therapy. 

Reverend Purkey is married to Betty Purkey and has a grown son, Tom. He enjoys wood working, especially wood turning, reading, and travel.