
Blackburns' Chapel
a campus of Boone UMC

Rev. Laura Byrch, Pastor
Laura began serving as pastor of Blackburns' Chapel in July, 2020. She was eager to come and serve with this congregation after being able to worship and preach at Blackburns' on several occasions since moving to the High Country in 2015. She has also served on the board of Todd's Table (formerly Blackburn Community Outreach/BCO) since 2017.
Always eager to laugh, Laura loves people and all things that foster a sense of community and making connections. She believes deeply that God has called the church to be diverse, compassionate, and just. Laura is thrilled to be part of a church that is engaged deeply in stewarding the land through having gardens and edible landscaping on our property, a prayer trail, and partnership with Todd's Table. She particularly appreciates the ways that Blackburns' Chapel lives into Jesus’ example and calling for the church to be a place of unlikely friendships created and sustained by God’s mercy. In addition to being pastor at Blackburns', Laura continues to serve part-time as Pastor of Community Engagement at Boone UMC. She and her husband JB love reading, gardening, cycling, hiking, being on the water, and generally appreciating this beautiful place we get to call home.
We're Hiring!
We currently have a wonderful rotation of talented local musicians who lead us musically on Sundays. They range from playing traditional hymns on piano, to classical guitar, to bluegrass, to more contemporary music. If you are interested in joining the rotation, email Pastor Laura from our contact page! And if you or someone you know is interested in being our part-time worship coordinator, we are looking for someone to coordinate and lead worship for us weekly.
Chapel Leadership Team
Ken Boaz, Chair
Carroll Ann Busher, Staff Parish Relations Rep
Laura Byrch, Leadership Development & Nominations Rep
Joe Piegari, Trustee Rep
Robert Scouten, Financial Treasurer and Secretary
Caitlin Stanton-Rich, Mission and Outreach Rep