Stefanie Riley

Stefanie joined the ministry team of Seaside United Methodist Church on August 15, 2014 and serves as our Executive Pastor.

Stefanie graduated with distinction with a Master of Divinity degree from Campbell University Divinity School in 2010. She completed this degree while she was serving full-time as Director of Media Ministries at First Baptist Church in Wilmington. Upon graduation Stefanie was ordained by FBC and promoted to the position of Minister of Connections.

Her current position at Seaside involves directing the administrative and “behind the scenes” work that are required to ensure that the business and staffing of Seaside run smoothly and efficiently. Working with various committees and teams, she gives spiritual direction, as well as practical day-to-day insight, to the nuts & bolts work of church life. Additionally, Stefanie participates in Sunday worship leadership including the roles of liturgist and preacher, and also leads short-term theology studies.She also serves as the Community Relations pastor of Seaside, engaging the community in various ways including VBS and the annual Blessing of the Animals Service at the park.

Stefanie has a true passion for creation care and in particular advocacy for animals and animal welfare. She loves her cats like they are her children (and they love her like she is their servant….) In her free time Stefanie volunteers at Cat Tails, a local cat shelter in Ocean Isle Beach. Her favorite place to find herself is on her Stand Up Paddleboard on the ICWW. She is also a runner, attempts to play golf, and loves spending time in and on the water. A beach girl at heart, she is happiest when there is salt in her hair and sand in her toes!